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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING & FINANCE

Securities and Exchange Board of India to Broaden Scope of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information  

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) intends to broaden the scope of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI) by including additional items like restructuring plans, proposed fundraising activities, one-time bank settlements, and other significant corporate actions.
• SEBI has proposed that listed entities disclose outcomes of board meetings discussing price-sensitive information within 30 minutes of meeting closure.

What is UPSI?

• UPSI means any information, relating to a company or its securities, directly or indirectly, that is not generally available which upon becoming generally available, is likely to materially affect the price of the securities.

Key Highlights :

• Expanded List of UPSI Events:SEBI’s illustrative list of UPSI now includes:
• Corporate insolvency developments (approval of resolution plans, restructuring, one-time settlements related to bank loans).
• Management and control impacting agreements (e.g., shareholder, joint venture, and family settlement agreements).
• Forensic audits initiated due to financial misstatements, fund misappropriation, siphoning, or diversion.
• Fraud or defaults by listed entities, their promoters, directors, or senior management.
• Actions by regulatory, statutory, or judicial bodies that may impose significant penalties or sanctions on the company or key personnel.
• Significant transactions like mergers, acquisitions, delistings, and unusual business expansions.
• Objective:SEBI aims to bring regulatory clarity, certainty, and uniformity in how companies classify and disclose UPSI, ensuring companies comply with the law in spirit.
• Public Consultation:SEBI has sought public feedback on these proposals by November 30, 2024.
• New UPSI Elements Proposed:SEBI’s consultation paper suggests the inclusion of fundraising decisions, rating revisions, granting/cancellation of key licenses, and significant guarantees or indemnities as part of UPSI.
• Inclusion of Judicial and Regulatory Actions:SEBI recommends that any judicial, statutory, or enforcement actions involving fines, penalties, or sanctions on listed companies, their subsidiaries, or key personnel should be classified as UPSI.
• Aim of the UPSI Revision:The revisions are intended to enhance investor protection and market transparency, ensuring that investors have timely access to material information affecting a company’s performance and stock price.
• Upcoming Compliance Requirement:Once finalized, these rules will require companies to establish robust internal systems for identifying and disclosing UPSI events as defined by SEBI.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Madhabi Puri Buch (first woman to lead the SEBI)
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

Government to Provide Protection for Bankers Against Probe Agencies in Bonafide Decisions  

• The Centre plans to amend the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 to address concerns from bankers regarding post-retirement harassment by investigating agencies over bona fide decisions.
• The amendment aims to improve the credit climate, which is crucial for supporting high economic growth.

Key Highlights :

• Key Concern for Bankers:Bankers fear harassment by investigating agencies for bona fide decisions gone wrong post-retirement, which has a negative impact on decision-making in loan processes.
• High-Level Meeting:A meeting is scheduled for November 22, 2024, with participation from key officials like the Senior Finance Secretary, CBI Director, RBI Deputy Governor, SBI Chairman, MD/CEOs of public sector banks, and chief vigilance officers of banks.
• Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act:In 2018, Section 17A was inserted into the Act to protect public sector bank officers from investigations related to decisions made in national interest, without undue fear of prosecution.
• Statutory protection is provided to encourage faster decision-making in loan approvals and other financial decisions.
• Objectives of the Amendments:The proposed changes seek to encourage bureaucrats and bankers to take the right decisions in national interest.
• Reducing fear of prosecution and harassment will lead to improved efficiency in credit decision-making and foster a healthier banking environment.
• Economic Impact:The goal is to improve the credit climate, vital for boosting economic growth.
• A more robust and effective credit system will enhance overall financial stability and development.
• Improvement in Public Sector Bank NPAs:Gross Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) of public sector banks have reduced significantly from 14.5% in March 2016 to 2.8% in March 2024, reflecting the positive impact of earlier reforms and efforts to address bad loans.

Life Insurance Corporation of India’s New Endowment Plan Age Limit Reduced to 50 Years from 55 Years  

• The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) reduced the upper age limit for purchasing its New Endowment Plan (Plan-914) from 55 years to 50 years, effective October 1, 2024.

Key Highlights :

• Plan Details:LIC’s New Endowment Plan-914 is a participating endowment policy offering a combination of protection and savings.
• Minimum entry age is 8 years.
• Offers death and maturity benefits, where the death benefit provides a lump sum to the nominee, and the maturity benefit gives a fixed payout upon policy maturity.
• Types of Endowment Plans:LIC offers six endowment products, which include:
  • Single Premium Endowment Plan
  • New Endowment Plan
  • New Jeevan Anand
  • Jeevan Lakshya
  • Jeevan Labh Plan
  • Amritbaal Plan
• Revised Surrender Value Guidelines:LIC updated surrender value norms for its endowment plans and 32 other products and riders, effective October 1, 2024.
• Premium Rate Adjustments:Premium rates for most LIC endowment products, excluding Amritbaal Plan, have been increased by an average of 8-10%.
• Private insurers have adjusted endowment plan premiums by an average of 6-7%.
• Increased Sum Assured:The sum assured for LIC’s New Endowment Plan, New Jeevan Anand, and Jeevan Lakshya has been increased from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh.

Recent News :

• In October 2024, LIC introduced the Single Premium Group Micro Term Insurance Plan, a non-participating, non-linked, group pure risk micro insurance product targeting life coverage for group members.

About LIC :

• Founded : 1 September 1956
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• MD & CEO : Siddhartha Mohanty

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi to Lay Foundation Stone for AIIMS Darbhanga on November 13

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Darbhanga, Bihar, on November 13, 2024, to lay the foundation for the AIIMS Darbhanga project.
• Project Value: The construction of AIIMS Darbhanga is a Rs 1,700 crore initiative to improve healthcare access in north Bihar and neighbouring regions.
• Ceremony and Attendees: The foundation-laying ceremony, or ‘bhumi pujan,’ will be attended by dignitaries including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Ministers Chirag Paswan and Jitan Ram Manjhi.

Significance of AIIMS Darbhanga:

1. Second AIIMS in Bihar:
   Darbhanga is set to become Bihar’s second AIIMS facility, enhancing healthcare options alongside the existing AIIMS in Patna.
2. Enhanced Healthcare Accessibility:
   The project is expected to significantly boost medical infrastructure in northern Bihar, making high-quality super-specialty services more accessible to the region.
3. Developmental Emphasis by NDA Government:
   Health Minister Mangal Pandey highlighted that AIIMS Darbhanga exemplifies the NDA’s commitment to regional development, emphasizing inclusivity and support for underserved populations.

EPFO Annual Report 2023-24: Key Highlights on Employment, Claims, and Reforms

• The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has seen growth in membership, contributions, and arrears recovery, along with significant strides in organizational reform.

Growth in Membership and Contributions

• Increase in Contributing Members: Reflecting employment growth, EPFO members rose by 7.6% from 6.85 crore in 2022-23 to 7.37 crore in 2023-24.
• More Contributing Establishments: The number of business establishments contributing to EPFO grew by 6.6% to 7.66 lakh in the same period.

Financial Improvements and Claims Processing

• Arrears Collection: EPFO realised arrear dues totalling Rs 5,268 crore, a 55.4% increase from Rs 3,390 crore the previous year.
• Claims Settled: Claims settlement saw a 7.8% rise, with 4.45 crore claims processed in 2023-24, up from 4.12 crore in 2022-23.

Initiatives to Streamline Operations

1. Financial Reporting and Automation:
   • To address backlog and ensure timely annual account preparation, EPFO hired two Chartered Accountant firms for annual financial statement preparation and automation of the accounting process.
   • Audited annual accounts for 2021-22 and 2022-23 were presented to clear pending records, with a goal to present 2023-24 accounts on time.
2. Compassionate Appointment Policy:
   • A New Compassionate Appointment Policy, 2024 was proposed to support dependents of employees who passed away in service, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. Operational Reforms:
   • The committee discussed advancements in information technology and governance within EPFO to improve claim processing.
   • EPFO relaxed auto-settlement criteria, expanding grounds for automatic claims.
   • Centralized pension payments, as well as enhanced IT systems, were identified as key areas for future improvement.

Special Campaign 4.0: Boosting Cleanliness, Efficiency, and Revenue in Government Offices

• The Special Campaign 4.0, a central government initiative aimed at enhancing cleanliness and reducing pendency in government offices, has achieved remarkable results, generating ₹2,364 crore in revenue over the past three years.
• This latest phase, conducted from October 2 to 31, 2024, alone contributed over ₹650 crore through the disposal of scrap.

Key Achievements and Impact

1. Financial Gains:
   • Total revenue generated (2021-2024): ₹2,364 crore.
   • Revenue generated in October 2024 campaign alone: ₹650 crore.
2. Efficiency and Space Management:
   • 4.5 million files reviewed and 555,000 public grievances resolved.
   • 190 lakh square feet of office space cleared for optimized use.
3. Increased Participation:
   • Over 597,000 government offices participated, up from 259,000 last year.
   • A significant reduction in administrative backlog, with several ministries achieving 90-100% clearance rates.
4. Digital and Technological Integration:
   • Campaign monitored on a dedicated portal.
   • Use of AI for grievance redressal and waste management improvements.
5. Social Media Engagement:
   • Over 100,000 posts and 14,000 tweets highlighted the campaign’s progress.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Taliban to Participate in United Nations Climate Conference for the First Time  

• The Taliban will attend a United Nations climate conference (COP29) for the first time since taking control of Afghanistan in 2021.
• COP29 will be held in Azerbaijan starting on November 11, 2024.
• This conference marks one of the most significant multilateral forums involving the Taliban, who lack official recognition as Afghanistan's legitimate government.

Objectives of Taliban Delegation:

• Strengthen cooperation with the international community on environmental and climate protection.
• Present Afghanistan’s needs for access to climate-related financial mechanisms.
• Engage in discussions about adaptation and mitigation strategies for climate impacts in Afghanistan.
• Climate Vulnerability in Afghanistan:According to an August 2024 report by Save the Children, Afghanistan is the sixth most vulnerable country to climate change.
• Severe or catastrophic drought conditions affect 25 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces, impacting over half the population.
• Impact on Children: Afghanistan had the highest number of children displaced by climate disasters globally by the end of 2023, as per the Save the Children report.
• International Assistance: The Taliban aims to secure international aid and funding at COP29 to help address Afghanistan’s pressing climate challenges.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : STATE NEWS

Odisha to Roll Out National Education Policy 2020 in Universities Starting This Academic Year  

• The Odisha government will implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 across all state-run universities and affiliated colleges starting from the current academic year.
• The traditional three-year undergraduate courses will be replaced by four-year programs, allowing students to earn a certificate, diploma, degree, or degree with honours after each year of study.
• The state has developed a credit-based framework aligned with University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, enabling students to earn credits through skill development, internships, community service, and extra-curricular activities like NCC and NSS.

Key Highlights :

• Flexible Course Completion: Students can complete their degree within a maximum of seven years, with options for multiple entries and exits from their institution.
• Focus on Quality and Inclusivity: NEP 2020 aims to enhance quality, autonomy, and inclusivity within Odisha's higher education system, aligning with national policy goals.
• Employment-Oriented Learning: The curriculum emphasizes practical, skill-based learning with internships, promoting research and innovation to meet industry needs.
• New Courses Approved: The Odisha government has sanctioned a variety of courses:
• Skill Development: 2 skill development courses and 84 specific skill courses
• Multi-disciplinary and Vocational Courses: 112 multi-disciplinary and 14 vocational courses
• Value-Added Courses: 56 value-added courses
• Core UG Syllabus: A detailed model syllabus has been developed for 40 core undergraduate degree courses.

About Odisha :

• Governor : Raghubar Das
• Chief Minister : Mohan Charan Majhi
• Capital : Bhubaneswar

CURRENT AFFAIRS: BUSINESS NEWS

India's Increased Fuel Exports to the EU Driven by Discounted Russian Oil:

• India’s export of fuels, such as diesel, to the European Union increased by 58% in the first three quarters of 2024, primarily from refining discounted Russian crude oil.
• The EU and G7 countries imposed a price cap on Russian crude oil in December 2022 to limit Moscow’s revenue; however, refined oil from Russian crude is not restricted, allowing countries like India to process and export to price-cap coalition countries.
• India's Position in Russian Oil Imports:
  India has become Russia's second-largest crude oil buyer, with Russian oil now constituting 40% of India’s total imports—up from less than 1% before the Ukraine invasion.
  • This shift is due to discounted Russian oil prices amidst the EU’s embargo.
• Leading Exporter of Refined Products to the EU:
  India, capitalizing on the refining loophole, has emerged as the largest exporter of refined oil products to the EU from its Jamnagar, Vadinar, and Mangalore refineries, owned by Reliance Industries, Rosneft-backed Nayara Energy, and MRPL.
• Economic Impact on Russian Revenue:
  According to CREA, EU’s ongoing refined oil imports from Russian crude products indirectly sustain Russia's revenue, despite the price cap policy.
• Statistics on Import Volume and Financial Impact:
  • The EU imported 154,000 barrels per day of diesel and jet fuel from India before the Ukraine war, nearly doubling post-invasion.
  • In 13 months to December 2023, €8.5 billion in oil products imported by price-cap countries originated from Russian crude, equating to 68% of the EU's annual commitment to aid Ukraine.
• Shadow Fleet Development:
  • The shadow fleet, consisting of second-hand tankers with unclear ownership, has grown, bypassing Western price cap restrictions on Russian oil.
  • In October, 83% of Russia’s seaborne crude value was transported by these shadow tankers, with 17% complying with the price cap

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Justice Sanjiv Khanna Takes Oath as 51st Chief Justice of India 

• Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) during a special ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with President Droupadi Murmu administering the oath.
• Justice Khanna will serve a six-month tenure as CJI and is expected to retire on May 13, 2025.
• He succeeds Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, who concluded his term as CJI the day before.

About Justice Sanjiv Khanna :

• Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Khanna began his legal career in 1983 after enrolling with the Bar Council of Delhi.
• Initially, he practiced in District Courts at the Tis Hazari complex in Delhi, later advancing to the Delhi High Court and various tribunals.

Judicial Appointments:

• Appointed as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court in 2005 and became a permanent judge in 2006.
• Elevated to the Supreme Court in January 2019.
• Landmark Judgments: Justice Khanna has played a crucial role in several landmark Supreme Court decisions, including:
• Upholding the abrogation of Article 370 (regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s special status).
• Dismantling the Electoral Bonds scheme.
• Affirming the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in elections.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

India-Vietnam Joint Military Exercise VINBAX 2024 Begins in Ambala, Haryana  

• The 5th Edition of Vietnam Indian Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” commenced at Ambala,Haryana.
• The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 04 to 23 November 2024 at Ambala and Chandimandir.
• The exercise is a sequel to previously conducted bilateral exercise in Vietnam in 2023 and a major milestone in strengthening the bilateral relations between India and Vietnam.
• This edition marks a significant increase in the scope with Bi Service level participation for the first time by personnel of Army and Air Force from both the countries.
• The Indian Army contingent comprising 47 personnel is being represented by a Regiment of the Corps of Engineers along with personnel from other arms and services.
• The Vietnamese contingent of similar strength will be represented by the troops of the Vietnam People's Army.
• The aim of VINBAX-2024 is to enhance joint military capability of both sides in employment and deployment of Engineer Company and Medical Teams to undertake engineering tasks as part of United Nation Contingent in Peacekeeping Operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

History :

• The 4th edition of the India-Vietnam joint military exercise, VINBAX-2023, took place in Hanoi, Vietnam, from December 11 to 21, 2023.
• VINBAX, which was established in 2018, held its inaugural edition in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
• It is an annual training event conducted alternatively in India and Vietnam.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Russia to Deliver First of Two Missile Frigates by the End of This Month(November 2024)  

• India is set to receive its first of two guided-missile warships built in Russia by the end of this month (November 2024).
• The warship is a multi-role frigate with a displacement of almost 4,000 tonnes.
• It will be commissioned as INS Tushil by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit in early December.
• The second frigate, Tamal, will be handed over early next year.
• The frigates are equipped with advanced weapons, including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and sensors for various missions.

Key Highlights :

• S-400 Delivery Delay:The delivery of the fourth and fifth squadrons of S-400 Triumf air defense missile systems will be delayed until 2026.
• These squadrons are part of a $5.43 billion (Rs 40,000 crore) contract signed with Russia in 2018.
• The delay is attributed to Russia's defense production being focused on the Russia-Ukraine war.
• Three squadrons of S-400 have already been deployed in north-west and east India to address threats from China and Pakistan.
• Nuclear-Powered Submarine Lease Delay:The lease for a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) has been delayed until at least 2028.
• India previously leased INS Chakra-1 and Chakra-2 from Russia and has now agreed to lease a more advanced SSN.
• The lease deal is worth over $3 billion (Rs 21,000 crore) for 10 years, but the delivery has been postponed.
• Indigenous SSN Development:The Indian government approved an indigenous project to build two SSNs at an estimated cost of Rs 40,000 crore.
• These submarines will take at least a decade to be completed.
• Strategic Deterrence:India commissioned its second nuclear-powered submarine with nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles (SSBN), INS Arighaat, in August 2024.
• India plans to induct INS Aridhaman, the third SSBN, early next year, strengthening its strategic deterrence.
• Historical Background:India had inked an agreement with Russia in October 2018 for four Grigorovich-class frigates worth around Rs 8,000 crore.
• The first two frigates were imported from Russia, while the other two are being built at Goa Shipyard under a technology transfer agreement for a total cost of Rs 13,000 crore.
• India already operates six Russian-built frigates, including Talwar-class and Teg-class warships.

France Assessing India’s Pinaka Rocket System for Its Needs  

• France is considering India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system to meet its military requirements and plans to conduct a detailed evaluation of the system.

Key Highlights :

• Pinaka Presentation to French Army: India presented the Pinaka system to the French Chief of Army Staff in February, expressing interest in France's evaluation process involving multiple providers, with India being one of them.
• Replacement of M270 Systems: France intends to replace its M270 Lance-Roquettes Unitaire (LRU) rocket systems, with 13 upgraded M270 systems in service. Six of these were transferred to Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict.
• Armenia as First Export Customer: Armenia became the first export customer for the Pinaka system, which has attracted interest from several other countries.
• Pinaka System in Indian Army: The Indian Army has four Pinaka regiments in service, with an additional six regiments on order.
• Pinaka Mk1 Specifications:The Pinaka Mk1 has a range of 38 km and can fire a variety of ammunition.
• Trials for guided extended-range rockets are nearing completion, with the range set to exceed 75 km, and future plans aim to extend the range to 120 km and eventually 300 km.
• India-France Military Cooperation:The 7th edition of the bilateral Army exercise "Shakti" was held in Meghalaya in May, with the next edition set to focus on high-altitude warfare.
• The key areas of cooperation include capability, education, training, equipment, and leadership understanding.
• France’s Role in UNIFIL: France plays a significant role in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), standing between Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel. France’s involvement aligns with India’s position on international law, especially amidst recent attacks on UNIFIL.
• India-France Defence Agreements: India and France are negotiating the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three additional Scorpene-class submarines for the Indian Navy.
• Discussions are also ongoing for the co-design and co-development of a jet engine for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

About France :

• President : Emmanuel Macron
• Prime Minister : Michel Barnier
• Capital : Paris
• Currency : Euro

First Major Results from Payload on Aditya-L1's Maiden Solar Mission    

• Scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Bengaluru reported the “first significant” results from the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) payload onboard the ADITYA-L1 Mission.
• ADITYA-L1 — India’s maiden solar mission launched on September 2, 2023 by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to observe the Sun at Lagrangian point L1.
• The spacecraft was inserted into its targeted halo orbit on January 6, 2024.

About Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC):

• VELC is the primary payload on the ADITYA-L1 mission, developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru.
• It is an internally occulted solar coronagraph that allows simultaneous imaging, spectroscopy, and spectro-polarimetry near the solar limb.
• It will observe the solar corona, the outermost layer of the Sun, and help study solar phenomena such as Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) and the solar wind.
• Capabilities:VELC can image the solar corona down to 1.05 times the solar radius, the closest any instrument has imaged the corona.
• It will measure and analyze the temperature, plasma velocity, density, and other aspects of the solar corona.
• Design & Components:Built at the Centre for Research and Education in Science and Technology (CREST), Hosakote, Karnataka.
• The instrument consists of a coronagraph, spectrograph, polarimetry module, and detectors, along with auxiliary optics.
• What is a Coronagraph?A coronagraph is a specialized instrument that blocks out the bright light of the Sun, enabling scientists to observe the Sun’s corona, which is usually obscured by the Sun's intense brightness.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov Visits India to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

• Denis Manturov, Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister, is in India from November 11 to 12 to bolster trade, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.
• His visit includes engagements in both Mumbai and New Delhi.

Key Highlights of the Visit

1. Russian-Indian Business Forum:
   • Date: November 11
   • Location: Mumbai
   • Organizers: Business Council for Cooperation with India & Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
   • Focus Areas:
     • Industrial sectors, transport and logistics, finance, digital innovation, and regional partnerships.
   • Goal: Deepening connections and collaborations between Russian and Indian entrepreneurs through targeted thematic sessions.
2. 25th Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission Session:
   • Date: November 12
   • Location: New Delhi
   • Co-Chairs: Denis Manturov and India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
   • Objective: To strengthen cooperation across trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural sectors.

Additional Bilateral Meetings

Manturov will engage in several one-on-one meetings with Indian officials to discuss strategic partnerships and mutual interests in various sectors, furthering Russia and India’s collaborative efforts.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Tamil Nadu to Likely Host 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup

• Tamil Nadu is expected to host the 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup in November-December 2025.
• According to a high-ranking Government source, Tamil Nadu has submitted a letter of intent to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), which has approved the proposal.
• Discussions with Hockey India are ongoing to finalize the arrangements, including two proposed venues in Chennai and potentially Madurai.
• The tournament will feature 24 teams playing a total of 72 matches, requiring two hosting venues to accommodate all games.

Significance for Tamil Nadu:

• Successfully hosting the World Cup would strengthen the role of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) and the Government of Tamil Nadu in promoting sports.
• Tamil Nadu had recently hosted the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai (August 2023), where the Indian men’s team emerged victorious and subsequently won at the Asian Games.

India's Hosting Record:

• This will mark the fourth time since 2013 that India hosts the Men’s Junior World Cup, with a historic inclusion of 24 teams for the first time.

Coco Gauff Advances to WTA Finals Riyadh Final After Defeating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka

• S. tennis star Coco Gauff defeated Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player, with a scoreline of 7-6, 6-3 , advancing to the finals of the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh.

1. Close Opening Set:
   • The match saw intense competition, with Gauff narrowly missing a break opportunity early on at 15-40 on Sabalenka’s serve in the sixth game.
   • At 5-5, Gauff hit an ace, but Sabalenka broke her serve soon after. Gauff forced a tiebreak, ultimately winning the first set 7-6 as Sabalenka struggled with errors.
2. Second Set Breakthrough:
   • Gauff gained an early lead at 2-1 in the second set and extended it to 4-1.
   • Despite Sabalenka’s comeback, breaking for 4-2 after a long game with eight break points, Gauff regained momentum by breaking at love, setting up a chance to serve for the match.
   • The set concluded with a back-and-forth series of breaks, but Gauff ultimately clinched victory.
3. Upcoming Final Match:
   Gauff will face Zheng Qinwen in Saturday’s final after Zheng defeated Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, 6-3, 7-5, in the other semifinal.

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Set to Defend Title at the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 in Bihar

• The Indian women’s hockey team, led by newly appointed captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur, is ready to defend its title at the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024.
• This prestigious tournament, the first of its kind in Bihar, will take place from November 11 to 20 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.

Tournament Highlights

• Participating Teams: Six top teams, including Paris Olympics silver medallists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand, will compete alongside India.
• Opening Match: India will kick off its campaign against Malaysia on November 11.
• Head Coach: This is India’s first Asian competition under head coach Harendra Singh, appointed earlier this year.

India’s Schedule and Recent Track Record

India's past dominance against Malaysia boosts its confidence:

• Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2023: India won 5-0.
• Asian Games Hangzhou 2022: India secured a 6-0 victory.
• Women’s Asia Cup 2022: India triumphed 9-0.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Immunization Day: November 10

• Observed on November 10, World Immunization Day promotes awareness about the critical role vaccines play in protecting public health.
• This day underscores the importance of vaccines in preventing infectious diseases and safeguarding communities through herd immunity.

Highlights of Immunization Efforts in India

1. Universal Immunization Programme (UIP):
   • Objective: Provide free immunization to 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually, targeting diseases like polio, measles, and hepatitis B.
   • Impact: Reduced under-5 mortality rate from 45 (2014) to 32 per 1000 live births (2020). Achieved 93.23% full immunization coverage in FY 2023-24.
   • Milestones: Elimination of polio (2014) and maternal/neonatal tetanus (2015).
2. Mission Indradhanush (MI):
   • Goal: Launched in 2014 to increase full immunization coverage, especially in under-immunized regions.
   • Progress: Twelve phases completed, covering 554 districts and significantly increasing full immunization rates.
   • Integration: Expanded through programs like Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, reaching thousands of villages.
3. U-WIN Portal:
   • Functionality: Digital record of vaccinations from birth to 17 years; supports flexible scheduling, self-registration, and generates QR-based eVaccination Certificates.
   • User Base: Registered 6.46 crore beneficiaries and conducted 1.04 crore vaccination sessions as of September 2024.

Key Public Health Achievements

1. Polio-Free India:
   • India was certified polio-free in 2014 with the last case reported in 2011, a milestone strengthened by routine immunization initiatives.
2. Elimination of Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNTE):
   • Achieved in 2015, ahead of the global target, showcasing India’s commitment to maternal and newborn health through improved immunization and clean delivery protocols.
3. Yaws-Free Certification:
   • India became the first country to be recognized as yaws-free by WHO, highlighting efforts to eradicate this disease from rural and marginalized communities.
4. COVID-19 Vaccination Drive:
   • India’s COVID-19 vaccination program stands as a global benchmark, covering 97% of eligible citizens with at least one dose by January 2023.

World Public Transport Day: November 10

• World Public Transport Day, observed annually on November 10, encourages people to embrace public transit options and raise awareness of the significant environmental and social benefits of sustainable transportation.
• In 2024, World Public Transport Day continues to promote public transit as a solution to some of today’s most pressing urban challenges.
• This year’s theme is, ‘Connecting Communities, Reducing Emissions,
• World Public Transport Day was born out of the growing need for sustainable transportation solutions in response to urbanisation and rising environmental concerns.
• As cities expanded and car usage surged, issues like traffic congestion, air pollution and resource depletion became more apparent.
• First observed in the early 2000s, this day aims to raise awareness about the environmental, economic, and social benefits of public transportation.

World Pneumonia Day : 12th November

• World Pneumonia Day 2024 is observed on 12th November.
• The theme for World Pneumonia Day in 2024 is "Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Track."
• World Pneumonia Day, observed on November 12, was established in 2009 by the Global Coalition against Child Pneumonia, which included organizations like UNICEF, WHO, and Save the Children.
• This observance was created to raise awareness of pneumonia, a leading cause of child mortality globally, despite it being preventable and treatable.
• Over the years, World Pneumonia Day has proved critical for advocating improved access to vaccines, healthcare, and awareness in fighting pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
• The World Pneumonia Day strives to give voice to the silent epidemic and encourage governments and health organisations to make pneumonia prevention a priority on the global health agenda.

Daily CA One- Liner: November 12

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Darbhanga, Bihar, on November 13, 2024, to lay the foundation for the AIIMS Darbhanga
• The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has seen growth in membership, contributions, and arrears recovery, along with significant strides in organizational reform
• The Special Campaign 4.0, a central government initiative aimed at enhancing cleanliness and reducing pendency in government offices, has achieved remarkable results, generating ₹2,364 crore in revenue over the past three years.
• India’s export of fuels, such as diesel, to the European Union increased by 58% in the first three quarters of 2024, primarily from refining discounted Russian crude oil.
• Denis Manturov, Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister, is in India from November 11 to 12 to bolster trade, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations
• Tamil Nadu is expected to host the 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup in November-December 2025.
• S. tennis star Coco Gauff defeated Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player, with a scoreline of 7-6, 6-3, advancing to the finals of the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh
• The Indian women’s hockey team, led by newly appointed captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur, is ready to defend its title at the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024.
• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) intends to broaden the scope of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI) by including additional items like restructuring plans, proposed fundraising activities, one-time bank settlements, and other significant corporate actions.
• The Centre plans to amend the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 to address concerns from bankers regarding post-retirement harassment by investigating agencies over bona fide decisions.
• The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) reduced the upper age limit for purchasing its New Endowment Plan (Plan-914) from 55 years to 50 years, effective October 1, 2024.
• The Taliban will attend a United Nations climate conference (COP29) for the first time since taking control of Afghanistan in 2021.
• The Odisha government will implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 across all state-run universities and affiliated colleges starting from the current academic year.
• Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) during a special ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with President Droupadi Murmu administering the oath.
• The 5th Edition of Vietnam Indian Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” commenced at Ambala, Haryana.
• India is set to receive its first of two guided-missile warships built in Russia by the end of this month (November 2024).
• France is considering India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system to meet its military requirements and plans to conduct a detailed evaluation of the system.
• Scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Bengaluru reported the “first significant” results from the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) payload onboard the ADITYA-L1 Mission.
• Observed on November 10, World Immunization Day promotes awareness about the critical role vaccines play in protecting public health
• World Public Transport Day, observed annually on November 10, encourages people to embrace public transit options and raise awareness of the significant environmental and social benefits of sustainable transportation
• World Pneumonia Day 2024 is observed on 12th November.