Comprehensive Overview of Key Events and Developments - 08 October 2024

This edition of current affairs provides an insightful analysis of crucial global and national events on 8th October 2024. From breakthroughs in medical science to the importance of preserving biodiversity, the topics covered are essential for aspirants of competitive exams like UPSC, APSC, and others. Detailed coverage of pressing issues like the Marburg virus outbreak, the prestigious WAZA Conservation Award, and the recognition of pioneering scientific achievements through the Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024 is included. Key national developments such as the National Anubhav Awards Scheme and the draft National Sports Policy also feature prominently, offering an in-depth understanding of India's efforts in governance, policy reform, and innovation.

Comprehensive Overview of Key Events and Developments - 08 October 2024
A collage representing global issues such as healthcare, environment conservation, and scientific innovations. It includes visuals of the Marburg virus, Nobel Prize in Medicine winners, Red Pandas, and an athlete representing India’s sports development.

Key Highlights:

  1. Marburg Virus Disease:
    A severe, often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus. This virus, similar to Ebola, is transmitted through fruit bats and human contact with infected bodily fluids. It can cause fever, organ failure, and shock, leading to a high mortality rate.

  2. WAZA Conservation Award:
    Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park's Red Panda Program has been selected as a finalist for the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Conservation Award 2024, with the winner to be announced at the WAZA Annual Conference in November.

  3. 2024 Medicine Nobel Prize:
    US scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discovery of microRNA, a molecule that regulates cellular processes and contributes to disease understanding.

  4. National Anubhav Awards Scheme 2025:
    This initiative recognizes the contributions of retiring Central Government employees, fostering administrative reforms and promoting good governance through the Anubhav Portal.

  5. Rani Durgavati Memorial:
    The Madhya Pradesh government approved the construction of a memorial dedicated to Rani Durgavati, a historical queen of Gondwana, at Madan Mahal Hill in Jabalpur.

  6. Saltpan Lands for Dharavi Redevelopment:
    The Maharashtra government has allocated 255.9 acres of saltpan land in Mumbai for rental housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, recognizing the ecological importance of these areas.

  7. National Agriculture Code (NAC):
    The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is developing the NAC to provide a comprehensive framework for agricultural practices, addressing the nation’s diverse agro-climatic zones and enhancing quality standards.

  8. National Sports Policy 2024:
    The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports released the draft NSP 2024 for public consultation, aiming to position India as a global sports powerhouse by fostering sustainable development in the sports ecosystem.

  9. Atoms4Food Initiative:
    A collaborative project by IAEA and FAO, Atoms4Food seeks to combat global hunger and food insecurity through nuclear technologies, tailoring solutions to specific needs at the World Food Forum 2023.

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