UPSC Current Affairs Pointers of the past week | November 4 to November 10, 2024

Recent Developments

The Union Cabinet recently approved the National Logistics Policy (NLP) to improve the country's logistics sector and boost economic growth. The policy aims to reduce logistics costs by 10%, create jobs, and enhance India's global competitiveness. It focuses on key areas such as infrastructure development, technology adoption, and regulatory reforms.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.90% in a move to contain inflation. The hike was in line with expectations, and the RBI stated that further rate increases may be necessary to bring inflation closer to its target of 4%. The decision is likely to impact loan interest rates and economic growth.

Important Events

India hosted the 17th G20 Summit in New Delhi, bringing together world leaders to discuss pressing global issues. The summit focused on topics such as climate change, sustainable development, and the global economy. India's presidency of the G20 will continue until November 2023.

The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) concluded in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, with a landmark agreement to establish a loss and damage fund for developing countries affected by climate change. The fund will provide financial assistance to address the devastating impacts of climate disasters.

Key Initiatives

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 4.0 campaign to accelerate immunization coverage in the country. The campaign aims to reach children and pregnant women who have missed out on essential vaccinations, targeting areas with low immunization rates.

The government announced the implementation of the National Child Labor Project (NCLP) Phase IV to combat child labor in India. The project focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and mainstreaming of child laborers, as well as strengthening the legal and institutional framework to prevent child labor.

Science and Technology

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C54 rocket, carrying the EOS-06 (Oceansat-3) and eight other nano-satellites into orbit. The launch marked ISRO's 55th successful PSLV mission and will enhance India's capabilities in ocean monitoring and space exploration.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) revealed stunning new images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope, showcasing distant galaxies and providing unprecedented insights into the early universe. The images have captivated scientists and the public alike, deepening our understanding of the cosmos.