Current Affairs Digest: October 31, 2023

Introduction

Stay updated with the latest happenings around the world with our comprehensive current affairs digest for October 31, 2023. From national to international news, economy to defense, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

National News

PM Modi Dedicated Projects Worth ₹5950 Crore In Gujrat

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated various developmental projects in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, valued at ₹5,950 crore. The projects include water-related initiatives and railway infrastructure.

Statue Of Unity Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary

• The Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, celebrates its fifth anniversary. The statue has welcomed nearly 1.5 crore visitors since its inauguration.

International News

Chinese Vessel Begins Research Off The Coast Of Sri Lanka

• A Chinese research vessel, Shiyan 6, has begun a two-day research mission off the coast of Sri Lanka, raising concerns in India and the United States.

1971 Memorial In Bangladesh Honouring India Heroes

• A memorial is nearing completion in Bangladesh to honor Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971.

State News

Manipur Celebrates Mera Houchongba 2023

• Manipur celebrated the festival of Mera Houchongba, emphasizing the strong bond between the people of the hills and the valley.

Kerala Becomes First State With Hallmarking Centers In Every District

• Kerala has become the first state in India to establish hallmarking centers in all of its 14 districts.

Economy

RBI Releases New ₹100 Note

• The Reserve Bank of India has released a new ₹100 note with advanced security features. The new note is expected to be more durable and user-friendly.

India's GDP Growth Forecast Revised to 7.8%

• The GDP growth forecast for India has been revised to 7.8% for the fiscal year 2023-24, up from the earlier prediction of 7.2%.

Defense and Technology

India Successfully Tests Agni-V Missile

• India successfully conducted a test of its intercontinental ballistic missile, Agni-V. The missile has a range of more than 5,000 km and is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.

SpaceX Launches 60 Starlink Satellites

• SpaceX successfully launched 60 Starlink satellites into orbit, aiming to provide global broadband internet coverage.

India Requests 26 Rafale-M Jets from France

• India has submitted a Letter of Request to France for 26 Rafale Marine fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy.

IAF Deploys S-400 Units

• The Indian Air Force has deployed three S-400 air defense missile units along the borders with China and Pakistan.

Sports

Tokyo Paralympics: India Bags 19 Medals

• India secured 19 medals, including five golds, at the Tokyo Paralympics, marking its best-ever performance.

Roger Federer Announces Retirement

• Tennis legend Roger Federer has announced his retirement from professional tennis at the age of 42.

Environment

UN Climate Summit COP28 Announced

• The United Nations has announced the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The summit aims to accelerate actions to combat climate change.

Amazon Rainforest Reaches Tipping Point

• Scientists warn that the Amazon Rainforest has reached a tipping point, beyond which it may not be able to recover, leading to devastating global consequences.

Entertainment

Oscar Awards 2023: 'Nomadland' Wins Best Picture

• The film 'Nomadland' won the Best Picture award at the 2023 Oscars, while Frances McDormand bagged the Best Actress award for her role in the same film.

BTS Releases New Album 'Euphoria'

• The popular K-pop group BTS has released their new album 'Euphoria,' which has already topped global charts.

Important Days

World Vegan Day Celebrated on November 1

• World Vegan Day is celebrated on November 1 every year to raise awareness about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle for humans, animals, and the environment.

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

• Observed on November 2, this day aims to put an end to impunity for crimes against journalists and ensure that they can work freely and safely.

Health

World Health Organization Declares Polio Eradicated in Africa

• The World Health Organization has declared that polio has been eradicated in Africa, marking a significant milestone in global health.

COVID-19: New Variant Detected

• A new COVID-19 variant has been detected, leading to increased vigilance and precautionary measures worldwide.

Science and Technology

NASA's Artemis Mission to the Moon

• NASA has announced its Artemis mission, which aims to land the first woman and the next man on the Moon by 2024.

Quantum Computing Breakthrough

• Researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough in quantum computing, potentially revolutionizing various industries.

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Current affairs quiz - 31 October 2023