Current Affairs 08/02/2024

Thu Feb 8, 2024

The complete fencing of the Indo-Myanmar border is planned, leading to the conclusion of the Free Movement Regime

The Indian government intends to enclose the entire 1643 km Indo-Myanmar border as part of efforts to improve surveillance and combat insurgencies, smuggling, and drug trafficking. Presently, the border operates under a free movement regime, permitting individuals from both sides to travel 16 km into each other's territory without requiring any documentation. This decision by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) follows an evaluation conducted by central intelligence and security agencies. 

 Union Home Minister Amit Shah revealed on Tuesday the government's intention to fence the complete 1,643-kilometre expanse of the border with Myanmar. This announcement suggests a potential termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), which presently permits residents along the border to traverse 16 kilometres into each other's territories without requiring formal documentation. Shah mentioned in a social media post that a 10 km segment in Moreh, Manipur, has already been fenced, out of the total border length.

Uttarakhand UCC Bill Highlights: The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Uttarakhand 2024 Bill, presented by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami

"This legislation embodies principles of equality, uniformity, and equal rights. Despite initial uncertainties, the comprehensive two-day discussion in the Assembly has addressed all concerns. It's essential to clarify that this law is not intended to be adversarial; rather, it aims to support women who encounter challenges due to societal norms. The enactment of this law is anticipated to boost their self-confidence and contribute to the holistic development of women. With the bill now approved, we will forward it to the President for endorsement. Once signed by the President, we are committed to promptly implementing it as a state law," stated Dhami during a press briefing following the Assembly session.

Emphasizing its advantages, Dhami pointed out that the Uniform Civil Code would grant the right to equality to all individuals without any bias in areas such as marriage, maintenance, inheritance, and divorce. "The UCC will primarily eliminate discrimination against women," he remarked.

"The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code will also play a crucial role in eliminating injustices and wrongful acts against women. It is high time to put an end to atrocities against 'Matrishakti.' Discrimination against our sisters and daughters must cease. It is imperative that half of the population now receives equal rights," added the Chief Minister.


Noida has been acknowledged as a "Water Warrior" city for its commendable efforts in wastewater treatment

The Noida Authority was honored with the prestigious 'Water Warrior' award in recognition of its outstanding water conservation initiatives at the World Water Award 2023-24. This event, jointly organized by the Central government and UNESCO, took place on Monday. The Authority received accolades in two significant categories, namely the Best Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Water Reuse Project of the Year.

The award ceremony, held in Delhi, saw Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, presenting the award to the Noida Authority, acknowledging its noteworthy contributions to sewage treatment and water reuse.

As of now, Noida is home to eight Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with a collective capacity of 411 MLD (million litres daily). These facilities are actively treating 260 MLD of sewage. Notably, approximately 70-75 MLD of the treated sewage is effectively utilized for diverse purposes, including irrigation for green belt parks, golf courses, wetlands, construction activities, firefighting, pond maintenance, and sprinkling on roads, as reported by officials. This multi-purpose use of treated sewage highlights the city's efforts towards sustainable water management and resource utilization.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella views artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force and a game-changer in India

Microsoft Chairman & CEO, Satya Nadella, has delineated three key imperatives for artificial intelligence (AI) and highlighted how India is in a favorable position to leverage its full potential. Speaking at the CEO Connection event in Mumbai, Nadella expressed that the current era is undeniably the most thrilling period for AI on a global scale, with substantial opportunities unfolding in India.

During the Microsoft CEO Connection event in Mumbai, Satya Nadella expressed a sense of alignment between India's developments and global trends, emphasizing that there is no delay or gap in understanding the dynamics. He highlighted the unique and distinctive nature of AI use cases in India, asserting that the country is not merely discussing AI but actively scaling its implementation. Nadella, who was born in India, underscored the excitement surrounding the diverse and innovative pathways that AI is taking in the country.

Satya Nadella, with 32 years at Microsoft and a decade as its CEO, announced that the tech giant aims to provide AI skills to two million individuals in India. Notably, the guest list for the event was curated using Microsoft's Copilot chatbot, as mentioned by Puneet Chandok, the company's President for India and South Asia.

Highlighting the potential impact of AI on India's economy, Nadella referred to the estimates from the Indian electronics and IT ministry. According to their projections, AI could contribute around $500 million to India's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025, aligning with the country's ambition to reach a $5 trillion economy. India's current nominal GDP stands at $3.7 trillion.

The Telangana Football Association has announced that it will host FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Hyderabad

The Telangana Football Association (TFA) has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining approval to host the FIFA World Cup qualifiers round between India and Kuwait. Set to take place on June 6th in Hyderabad, the announcement was made by Dr. K.T. Mahi, Chairman of TFA. 

In discussions with the Chief Minister of Telangana, Mr. Revanth Reddy, Dr. Mahi and TFA Secretary Mr. G.P. Palguna focused on the logistical and financial aspects of hosting this prestigious event. Following these discussions, the Chief Minister expressed support for the historic match. The State Government, after a meeting involving key figures, including Dr. Mahi, Mr. Palguna, Mr. Shahnawaz Qasim IPS, OSD, and Mr. Ajith Reddy, confirmed its backing for this initiative.

Today’s History: 08th February

1347: The Byzantine civil war of 1341–47 concludes with a power-sharing agreement.

1587: Mary, Queen of Scots, is executed for suspected involvement in the Babington Plot to murder her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.

1600: The Vatican convicts scholar and friar Giordano Bruno of heresy, leading to his punishment by civil authorities.

1601: Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, leads an unsuccessful revolt in London against Queen Elizabeth.

1971: The NASDAQ holds its first trading day.

1960: The first eight stars are added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Birth anniversaries on February 8:

Jagjit Singh: A renowned ghazal singer.

Dr. Zakir Husain: The third President of India.

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