Daily Current Affairs MCQs : 19 June 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

India is set to become the 6th country with a Deep Sea Mission, planning the first harbor trial at 40-50 meters depth by September 2024. The Matsya 6000, a three-person submersible developed by Chennai’s National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), will reach depths of 6,000 meters. Made of 80mm-thick titanium alloy, it can operate for 12-16 hours with a 96-hour oxygen supply. This mission is expected to boost India’s economy significantly.

Warmer conditions are aiding the Aedes albopictus mosquito, which spreads dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, to thrive, according to the EU health agency. Climate change will likely increase dengue risk in Europe, especially in Spain, Italy, and France, due to rising temperatures and humidity. However, summer droughts in Spain and Portugal may reduce its habitat. Controlling Aedes albopictus involves removing standing water, using repellents, and community mosquito control programs.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), with World Bank assistance, aims to enhance trash management by 2026-2027, focusing on stopping waste disposal at the Kodungaiyur dump. In a recent meeting with state officials, GCC discussed making solid waste management strategic, setting a Zero Waste goal, and eventually closing the Perungudi dumpsite following Kodungaiyur’s success.

The Indian Air Force will host its first multinational exercise, Tarang Shakti 2024, in August 2024. Around 10 countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, the UAE, the UK, and the US, are expected to participate, with others as observers. Initially scheduled for late 2023, the exercise was deferred. The event will enhance interoperability with friendly neighboring air forces.

Punjab Police, in collaboration with the BSF and VDCs, conducted a one-week anti-drug campaign, “Mission Nishchay,” in Fazilka district from June 15 to 21. They will engage residents of 42 villages along the India-Pakistan border to gather intelligence on drug demand and supply. The initiative aims to foster community participation, with a special focus on youth and women, in curbing the drug menace.

Microsoft has launched the 'AI Odyssey' initiative in India, with the objective of training 100,000 developers in the latest AI technologies, emphasizing India's leadership in tech talent and preparing developers for AI projects aligned with business goals.

The "Yogyasree" social welfare scheme launched by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal is specifically aimed at providing free training modules for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, targeting entrance and competitive examinations.

Ritesh Pai has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PhonePe's international payments business in a strategic move by the Walmart-owned fintech firm. This decision aligns with India's goal to globalize the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).

The first meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council was held in Kolkata, organized by the Inland Waterways Authority of India under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

Mohammed Shami, India's ace pacer, is thrilled about receiving the Arjuna Award, considering it a dream come true. He stands out as the sole cricketer among the 26 players chosen for the honour by the Sports Ministry of India in 2023.