Daily Current Affairs- 5th December 2024

Daily Current Affairs- 5th December 2024

International

Nepal and China sign deal on Belt and Road plan, paving way for progress on projects

• Nepal has signed a framework agreement with China on the Belt and Road initiative after an initial pact was signed seven years ago but no progress made since paving the way for cooperation on projects. 

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah became the First female President of Namibia

• Namibia has elected its first female President, with Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah declared the winner of last week's disputed elections. Defying predictions of a runoff election, Ms Nandi-Ndaitwah, the current Vice President of the Southern African country, won with 57 per cent of the vote. With this, Namibia's ruling South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO) party extended its 34-year hold on power. 

India and Kuwait sign MoU to establish Joint Commission for Cooperation

• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al Yahya have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) at the level of foreign ministers.
• The MoU was signed during a meeting between the two leaders in New Delhi. The agreement outlines the formation of new Joint Working Groups in sectors including trade, investment, education, technology, agriculture, security, and culture. These groups will operate under the JCC to review and monitor bilateral relations between the two nations.

 U.S. approves $1.17 billion deal for support systems for MH-60R helicopters

• The United States has approved a $1.17 billion deal under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program to supply advanced communication systems, sensors, and logistical support for the Indian Navy’s Sikorsky MH-60R multi-role helicopters. The deal, part of a broader strategy to counter challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) from China and Pakistan, underscores the growing defense partnership between India and the United States. 

National

Centre Launches eMaap Portal for Fair Trade and Consumer Protection

• The Indian government is introducing the National Legal Metrology Portal (eMaap) to promote fair trade practices and enhance consumer protection. This initiative is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal metrology standards. As part of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs’ effort, the portal will streamline services for businesses and consumers, fostering a balanced marketplace. 

Obituary

Brigadier Raj Manchanda Passes Away

• The Indian squash community mourns the loss of Brigadier Raj Manchanda, a legendary figure affectionately known as the ‘Old Fox,’ who passed away on December 1, 2024, in Delhi. At the age of 80, Manchanda leaves behind an inspiring legacy marked by unparalleled achievements, resilience, and contributions to the sport. 

Neale Fraser Passes Away at 91

• Neale Fraser, one of Australia’s most celebrated tennis players and captains, passed away at the age of 91. A legend of the sport, Fraser’s contributions as a player and as a Davis Cup captain marked a golden era for Australian tennis. 

Summit & MOUs

Sanjay Malhotra inaugurates 67^th Foundation Day of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence

• Shri Sanjay Malhotra, Secretary, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, inaugurated the 67th Foundation Day celebrations of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) — the apex anti-smuggling agency of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) — in New Delhi. 

29 Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit held in New Delhi

• Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organized the 29th CII Partnership Summit 2024 on 2-3 December in New Delhi. The CII Partnership Summit, held annually since 1995, has been regularly partnered by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. 

Awards & Recognition

Scottish Artist Jasleen Kaur wins Turner Prize for ‘Alter-Altar’ exhibition

• Scottish artist Jasleen Kaur has won the prestigious Turner Prize, a major UK contemporary art award, as it celebrated its 40th anniversary. Kaur was recognised for her exhibition Alter-Altar, which features a unique installation of a Ford Escort car decorated with a giant doily. The announcement was made at a ceremony held at the Tate Britain gallery in London. 

Maria Victoria Juan Wins Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024

• Nurse Maria Victoria Juan has been honoured with the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024, a prestigious recognition that celebrates exceptional contributions to the nursing profession worldwide.