Current Affairs April 18, 2024

Current Affairs

April 18, 2024

 

1. Saksham App Launched by Election Commission for PwDs:

   The Election Commission of India (ECI) has rolled out the Saksham app, a mobile application designed to facilitate Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the voter registration process and accessing electoral services. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the voting process, fostering greater participation of PwDs in the democratic system.

 

2. Paytm Gets Approval for UPI-based Bank Transfers:

   National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has granted approval to Paytm for enabling its users to transfer funds to different banks using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) service. Paytm has integrated with major banks like State Bank of India, Yes Bank, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank, initiating the transition process for its users to these banks for UPI-based transactions.

 

3. Indian Navy Unveils Advanced Submersible Platform:

   In Idukki, Kerala, the Indian Navy has introduced the Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterization and Evaluation (SPACE), a state-of-the-art technological facility. Developed by DRDO's Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory, SPACE serves as a premier center for testing and evaluating sonar systems utilized by the Indian Navy across various platforms, including helicopters, ships, and submarines.

 

4. Report Warns of Potential $38 Trillion Global Economic Losses by 2049:

   A report highlighting the economic ramifications of climate change suggests that global economic losses could amount to USD 38 trillion by 2049. The study, conducted by scientists at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) in Germany, predicts a 19% decline in global income over the next 25 years due to the adverse effects of climate change, even with efforts to curb carbon emissions.

 

5. Surge in India's Pulse Imports Despite Domestic Production:

   India has witnessed a significant increase in pulse imports during the fiscal year 2023-24, despite being a major producer and consumer of pulses. Imports have more than doubled to USD 3.74 billion compared to the previous year, necessitating the government to negotiate long-term import contracts with new markets like Argentina and Brazil to meet domestic demand and stabilize prices.

 

6. World AI Creator Awards Launch 'Miss AI' Beauty Pageant:

   The World AI Creator Awards (WAICAs) have inaugurated the 'Miss AI' beauty pageant, a unique event that amalgamates AI creators with conventional beauty pageantry. Models generated by artificial intelligence will compete in the Miss AI competition, with evaluation criteria focusing on both attractiveness and contestants' utilization of AI tools to create digital artwork.

 

   Apart from a $5,000 financial reward, the winner of 'Miss AI' will receive publicity on the Fanvue platform, a mentorship program worth $3,000, and public relations support exceeding $5,000 in value.

 

These developments underscore the intersection of technology, innovation, and societal engagement, shaping various aspects of contemporary life and governance.