Current Affairs – 1 June 2024 - SAMUNDRAGYAAN EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Current Affairs – 1 June 2024

Colombo Process

India has become chair of the Colombo Process for the first time since its inception in 2003.

Regional Consultative Process:
- Provides a platform for consultations on overseas employment and contractual labour for Asian countries of origin.
- Serves as a forum for exchanging best practices on overseas employment.
Membership:
- Comprises 12 Member States of Asia (countries of origin of migrant workers).
- Members: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- India has been a member since the inception in 2003.
Objectives:
- Share experiences, lessons learned, and best practices in labour migration management.
- Consult on issues faced by migrants, countries of origin, and countries of destination; propose practical solutions for the well-being of overseas workers.
- Optimize development benefits from organized overseas employment and enhance dialogues with countries of destination.
- Review and monitor the implementation of recommendations and identify further steps of action.
Decision-Making:
- Non-binding and by consensus.
Coordination:
- Coordinated through the Permanent Missions of Member States at the United Nations in Geneva.
- Governed by Ministerial Consultations where recommendations and action plans are discussed and adopted by Ministers of participating countries.
Technical Support:
- Provided by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) since inception, serving as the Secretariat.
Thematic Area Working Groups (TAWGs):
- Skills and Qualification Recognition (chaired by Sri Lanka)
- Fostering Ethical Recruitment (chaired by Bangladesh)
- Pre-Departure Orientation and Empowerment (chaired by the Philippines)
- Remittances (chaired by Pakistan)
- Labour Market Analysis (chaired by Thailand)

Rabies

The government of Jammu and Kashmir recently declared human rabies a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897.

Rabies Overview:
- Vaccine-preventable, zoonotic, viral disease caused by the RABV virus.
- Affects the central nervous system, leading to severe brain disease and death if untreated before symptoms start.
Transmission:
- Domestic dogs are responsible for up to 99% of rabies virus transmission to humans.
- Can affect both domestic and wild animals.
- Spreads via saliva, usually through bites, scratches, or direct contact with mucosa (e.g., eyes, mouth, or open wounds).
Global Presence:
- Present on all continents except Antarctica.
- Over 95% of human deaths occur in Asia and Africa.
- One of the neglected tropical diseases (NTD), affecting marginalized, poor, and vulnerable populations.
Symptoms:
- Initial symptoms may be nonspecific: lethargy, fever, vomiting, and anorexia.
- Symptoms progress to cerebral dysfunction, ataxia, weakness, paralysis, breathing and swallowing difficulties, excessive salivation, abnormal behavior, aggressivity, and self-mutilation.
- Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is virtually 100% fatal.
Prevention:
- Vaccine-preventable disease.
- Vaccinating dogs, including puppies, is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in humans by stopping transmission at its source.
Treatment:
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the medical care following rabies exposure.
- PEP includes wound care, a dose of human rabies immune globulin (HRIG), and a series of four or five rabies vaccines.
- Treatment must be administered as soon as possible after exposure.
- Nearly 100% effective if administered promptly.

World Health Assembly

Recently at the 77th World Health Assembly, member states approved a draft resolution on improving organ transplantation availability, including human cells and tissues.

In the News:
- On 29 May 2024, Member States, initiated by Spain, approved a new resolution on increasing availability, ethical access, and oversight of transplantation of human cells, tissues, and organs.
About the Draft Resolution:
- Urged member states to align with the World Health Organization (WHO) Guiding Principles on Human Cell, Tissue, and Organ Transplantation.
- Emphasized encouraging donation after the neurological determination of death and, where appropriate, after the circulatory determination of death.
- Highlighted that insufficient access to transplantation therapies contributes to trafficking in persons for organ removal and trafficking in human organs, practices that undermine human rights and pose serious public health risks.
- Urged the WHO Director-General to establish an expert committee under the Regulations for Expert Advisory Panels and Committees to assist the Secretariat in developing and implementing the proposed global strategy.
- Tasked countries with developing a global strategy to be presented for adoption in 2026.
- Encouraged the establishment of a World Donor Day to raise public awareness and donations.
About the World Health Assembly:
- The decision-making body of the World Health Organization.
- Attended by delegations from all WHO Member States, focusing on a specific health agenda prepared by the Executive Board.
Functions of the World Health Assembly:
- Determine the policies of the WHO.
- Appoint the Director-General.
- Supervise financial policies.
- Review and approve the proposed programme budget.
- Held annually in Geneva, Switzerland.

Purana Qila

Recently, a ceremony was organised to mark the handing over of Purana Qila to the Sabhyata Foundation of the Dalmia Group under the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.

Location:
- Located in the South Eastern part of present-day New Delhi.
- One of the oldest forts in Delhi, built on the banks of the Yamuna River.
- Also known as Qila-e-Kohna (meaning “old fort”).
History:
- Present citadel believed to have been built under Humayun and Sher Shah Suri (‘The Lion King’).
- Excavations indicate traces from the 3rd century BC, the pre-Mauryan period.
- Inspired by Jama Masjid, established 15 years before the reconstruction of the fort.
Architecture:
- Roughly rectangular shape with a circuit of nearly two kilometers.
- Three gates: Bara Darwaza (Big Gate) facing west, Humayun Gate facing south, and Talaqi Darwaza (Forbidden Gateway) facing north.
- Gates combine Islamic pointed arches with Hindu Chhatris and brackets.
- Double-storeyed gates with huge semi-circular bastions flanking either side.
- Bada Darwaza serves as the main point of entry.
- Surrounded by a wide moat.
- Walls reach up to 20 meters high in places and are approximately 4 meters thick.
- Prominent structure: Qila-e-Kuhna mosque, built by Sher Shah in 1542 CE.

Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion

NIMHANS bags the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024.

Instituted by – World Health Organisation (WHO).
Established in – 2019, upon the initiative of the Ministers of Health of Member States of the African Region.
Aim – To reward work that has extended far beyond the call of normal duties.
In recognition of the humility of Nelson Mandela, the Award given to each laureate consists of a plaque.
Presented by – Group of members including
- The President of the World Health Assembly
- The Director-General of the WHO
- A representative of the Nelson Mandela foundation

The World Health Assembly is the main decision-making body of WHO and is comprised of 194 Member States.

Beneficiary – Individuals, institutions and/or governmental or nongovernmental organizations
Eligibility – Beneficiary to have made a significant contribution to health promotion, as per the Statutes for the award.
Ineligible – Current and former staff members of the WHO and current members of the Executive Board.
Nomination by – Any national health administration of a Member State of the WHO, or any former recipient of the award.
The nomination must be accompanied by a written statement of the reasons for proposing the candidate.
The same candidature may be submitted several times if unsuccessful.
Proposals are submitted to – The Director-General of the WHO, who submits them to the Award Selection Panel.
The Award Selection Panel – They in a private meeting, considers the candidates for the Award and proposes the name(s) of the recipient(s) of the award to the Executive Board.
The proposal is considered by the Executive Board, which designates the recipient(s) of the Award.
2024 award – National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru has received the award.

NIMHANS, established in 1974, celebrates 50 years of its formation and the 70th anniversary of its precursor, the All India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH) in 2024. It is an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

It is a testament to NIMHANS’ dedication and outstanding contributions to promoting mental health and well-being.
NIMHANS has been at the forefront of mental health and neurosciences, championing innovative approaches to research, education, and patient care.

Mental Health Units are supported in almost all districts of India today through the National Health Mission. India’s national tele mental health helpline, Tele MANAS, which was launched in 2022 also recently achieved the landmark of having handled 10 lakh calls.

ISRO and Wipro 3D Collaborate on 3D-Printed Rocket Engine

Landmark Achievement:
- Wipro 3D and ISRO have jointly developed and successfully tested a 3D-printed rocket engine for India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
- The engine, designed for the fourth stage (PS4), represents a significant advancement in additive manufacturing technology within India’s space program.
Design Innovation and Benefits:
- ISRO implemented Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) techniques to redesign the conventionally manufactured PS4 engine.
- Utilized Laser Powder Bed Fusion to reduce the number of engine components from 14 to a single piece, eliminating 19 weld joints.
- The streamlined design drastically reduced raw material usage and production time, enhancing efficiency and performance.
Development and Testing:
- The PS4 engine, using a bipropellant combination of nitrogen tetroxide and monomethyl hydrazine, was developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
- Wipro 3D undertook the additive manufacturing process.
- Comprehensive testing included detailed flow and thermal modeling, structural simulations, and multiple hot tests to validate the engine’s performance parameters.
Rigorous Testing Validates Performance:
- ISRO conducted extensive developmental testing, including four hot tests of the integrated engine.
- A successful 665-second hot test confirmed the engine’s performance and reliability under various conditions, ensuring its readiness for operational deployment.
Future Implications:
- The successful hot testing of the 3D-printed PS4 engine marks a significant milestone in adopting additive manufacturing technology for rocket engines.
- ISRO plans to integrate this engine into the regular PSLV program, signifying a new era of advanced manufacturing techniques in India’s space endeavors.
- Promises greater efficiency and sustainability for future missions.

Kerala Introduces Artificial Intelligence Learning in School Textbooks

Introduction of AI Learning:
- Kerala introduces Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning in the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) textbook for Class 7 students.
- Aims to familiarize over 4 lakh students with AI in the upcoming academic year.
- Marks a significant step towards enhancing technological education in the state.
Hands-on AI Experience:
- In the ‘Computer Vision’ chapter, students will create an AI program capable of recognizing up to seven human facial expressions.
- Provides practical understanding of AI applications.
Uniform AI Learning:
- Kerala’s decision to incorporate AI learning uniformly for all students in a class is the first instance in India.
- Highlights the state’s commitment to preparing its youth for the digital age.
New ICT Textbooks:
- Textbooks for Classes 1, 3, 5, and 7 will be available in Malayalam, English, Tamil, and Kannada.
- Ensures accessibility to students across different linguistic backgrounds.
Curriculum Framework:
- Emphasis on developing critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and programming skills.
- Aims to equip students with essential skills for the future.
Mandatory ICT Education and Learning Tools:
- ICT education is compulsory for students from Classes 1 to 10 in Kerala.
- Textbooks introduce students to the PictoBlox package and Scratch software for programming, AI, robotics, and more.
KITE Support:
- Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) will provide essential software for AI learning on school laptops.
- Ensures infrastructure support for the initiative.
FOSS-Based Applications and KITE-Developed Programs:
- ICT textbooks for Classes 1 and 3 will include Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) educational applications.
- KITE-developed applications like Traffic Signal and Waste Challenge will be part of the curriculum.
Language Labs and Teacher Training:
- New textbooks will feature language labs to aid language learning.
- Training for all primary school teachers on the new ICT textbooks will commence in June 2024.
Future Rollout:
- New ICT textbooks for Classes 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 10 will be introduced in the next academic year.
- Further strengthens the state’s commitment to technological education.
Static GK:
- Kerala Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
- Kerala Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
- Kerala Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan

Badminton Star PV Sindhu Appointed Brand Ambassador for Tobacco Control

World No Tobacco Day 2024 Event:
- Organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
- Theme: “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.”
- Union Health Secretary, Shri Apurva Chandra, addressed the gathering via video message, highlighting the impact of tobacco use.
Government’s Proactive Stance Against Tobacco:
- Emphasis on reducing tobacco prevalence and exposure to tobacco smoke at local, national, regional, and global levels.
- Key focus areas for 2024:
  - Strict enforcement of India’s National Tobacco Control Law – COTPA 2003.
  - Intensified public awareness campaigns.
  - Increasing tobacco-free educational institutions.
  - Establishing tobacco-free villages nationwide.
PV Sindhu: Brand Ambassador for Tobacco Control:
- Indian badminton star Ms. PV Sindhu designated as the brand ambassador for Tobacco Control.
- In her video message, she urged everyone to join the campaign against tobacco use, promoting a tobacco-free life.
Operational Guidelines for Tobacco Cessation Centres:
- Unveiling of Operational Guidelines for Establishing Tobacco Cessation Centres in Medical Institutions.
- Aim: Educate and sensitize medical students about tobacco cessation.
- Aligns with National Medical Commission guidelines for training graduates in holistic medicine.
- Aims to boost quit rates among tobacco users, strengthening the healthcare system.
- Integration of tobacco cessation clinics into medical and healthcare institutions to universalize cessation services.
Collaborative Efforts for a Tobacco-Free India:
- Appointment of PV Sindhu to leverage her influence, especially among the younger generation.
- Her involvement is expected to inspire youth to adopt a tobacco-free lifestyle.
- Combined efforts of the Government, healthcare institutions, and influential figures aim to reduce tobacco prevalence and promote a healthier nation.

Indian-American Bruhat Soma Triumphs at Scripps National Spelling Bee

Bruhat Soma’s Victory:
- Bruhat Soma, a 12-year-old Indian-American seventh-grader from Florida, won the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
- He correctly spelled 29 words in the tiebreaker round, earning more than $50,000 in cash and prizes.
Intense Tiebreaker Round:
- The 2024 competition ended in a tiebreaker between Bruhat and Faizan Zaki.
- Bruhat spelled 29 words correctly in 90 seconds, while Faizan spelled 20 words correctly.
- Corrie Loeffler, the Bee’s executive director, praised both spellers for their performance.
Triumphant Third Attempt:
- This was Bruhat’s third time participating in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
- In 2023, he tied for 74th place, and in 2022, he tied for 163rd place.
- His perseverance and dedication paid off with his victory at just 12 years old.
Indian-American Dominance:
- Indian-Americans have consistently excelled at the Scripps National Spelling Bee, with 29 champions since 1999.
- This year’s competition had five Indian-American finalists out of the eight finalists.
Top Performers and Prizes:
- Faizan Zaki of Allen, Texas, received $25,000 as the runner-up.
- Shrey Parikh of Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Ananya Prassanna of Apex, North Carolina, tied for third place, each receiving $12,500.
Coaching and Preparation:
- Bruhat was coached by 16-year-old former speller Sam Evans.
- He had previously won the Words of Wisdom Bee and SpellPundit Bee.
- His multifaceted interests and hobbies, combined with his dedication to preparation, contributed to his success.
Inspiration for Aspiring Spellers:
- Bruhat Soma’s achievement highlights the importance of perseverance, dedication, and a passion for learning.
- His triumph serves as an inspiration to aspiring spellers worldwide.