20th May 2024 Daily Current Affairs
1. Recently, which two countries have signed an agreement to jointly develop interceptors for hypersonic missiles?
[A] United States and Japan[B] China and Russia
[C] India and Japan
[D] Russia and India
Correct Answer: A [United States and Japan]
Notes:
Japan and the U.S. signed a contract to develop interceptors for hypersonic missiles by the 2030s, costing over $3 billion. Announced in August, the plan addresses the rapid advancements in missile technology around Japan. Japan allocated ¥75 billion ($480 million) for 2024 development. Hypersonic missiles’ speed and irregular trajectories make them difficult to intercept. Japan’s defense budget increased amid rising tensions with China and North Korea.
2. Recently, world’s highest competition pool has been opened in which country?
[B] Myanmar
[C] Bhutan
[D] Bangladesh
Correct Answer: C [Bhutan]
Notes:
World Aquatics and the Bhutan Aquatics Federation have inaugurated Bhutan’s first competition swimming pool in Thimphu, through the Pools for All Programme. This facility, located at 8200 feet, is the world’s highest swimming pool. Launched in 2019, the initiative aims to provide top-tier aquatic facilities globally, promoting aquatic sports. The new pool marks a significant milestone for Bhutanese aquatic sports development.
3. What is the theme of ‘World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2024’?
[B] Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development
[C] Accelerating digital transformation in challenging times
[D] Connect 2030: ICTs for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Correct Answer: B [Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development]
Notes:
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on May 17 annually to explore the use of ICT and the Internet in societies and to address the digital divide. Each year, the ITU selects a theme; for 2024, it is “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development.” Sustainable development, as defined by the 1987 Brundtland Commission report, aims to meet present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to do the same.
4. Recently, where was the third session of the India-Zimbabwe Joint Trade Committee (JTC) held?
[A] New Delhi[B] Chennai
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Bengaluru
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
The Third Session of the India-Zimbabwe Joint Trade Committee was held in New Delhi from May 13-14, 2024. Co-chaired by India’s Priya P. Nair and Zimbabwe’s Rudo M. Faranisi, the session focused on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors such as healthcare, renewable energy, and digital economy. Both sides agreed to explore MoUs for regulatory cooperation and to strengthen ties between investment promotion agencies and chambers of commerce.
5. Recently, where was the 12th India-Mongolia Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on defence held?
[A] Darkhan[B] Bengaluru
[C] Ulaanbaatar
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: C [Ulaanbaatar]
Notes:
The 12th Joint Working Group (JWG) of Indian and Mongolian defence ministers met in Ulaanbaatar on May 16-17, 2024, as part of their annual meetings. Indian delegation led by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary of Defence, and Mongolian delegation by Brigadier General Gankhuyag Davagdorj. Discussions included bilateral cooperation, Indian Armed Forces capabilities, and potential collaboration in defence manufacturing. Both sides expressed satisfaction with ongoing cooperation and pledged to enhance it further.
19th May 2024 Daily Current Affairs