Current Affairs Highlights (November 25, 2024)
International
- Germany’s Early Election Preparation: Germany’s coalition government collapse has led to preparations for an early election in February 2025. Chancellor Olaf Scholz is expected to face a confidence vote in December, which he will likely lose. This election could significantly impact the European Union’s political dynamics
- Amazon Deforestation and Public Health: Anti-deforestation efforts in Brazil yield positive outcomes, significantly reducing hospitalizations and deaths. These policies aim to counteract environmental damage while improving public health
- Middle East Tensions: Israeli airstrikes on central Beirut have reportedly killed at least 20 individuals amid escalating conflicts involving Lebanon. Meanwhile, discussions on Gaza’s humanitarian situation remain critical, with calls for ceasefires and international intervention continuing
- Rising Militarization in Southeast Asia: Over half of Southeast Asian nations are now led by military leaders or regimes, reflecting growing trends of militarization in the region. This shift raises concerns about democratic values and governance
- Canada and AI for Conservation: Canadian researchers are employing artificial intelligence to study and conserve insect populations, addressing species extinction and promoting biodiversity
National (India)
- The Winter Session of Parliament began today with an agenda of 15 bills, including five new legislations. Notable among them is the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which is expected to spark intense debate. This bill seeks to amend the existing Waqf laws and has faced opposition from several groups. The Joint Parliamentary Committee is expected to submit its report during the session’s first week.
Other key bills include:
- Merchant Shipping Bill – Aligns India’s maritime laws with international treaties.
- Coastal Shipping Bill – Removes licensing requirements for Indian-flagged vessels in coastal operations.
- Indian Ports Bill – Aims to modernize port governance and enhance pollution control measures.
- Punjab Courts (Amendment) Bill – Proposes increasing appellate jurisdiction for certain courts.
The session also plans to discuss pending bills like amendments to the Disaster Management Act, Banking Laws, and the Railways Act. The session runs until December 20, 2024, with debates anticipated on maritime reforms and judiciary enhancements
- Parliament Winter Session: The session begins with plans to discuss 15 bills, including significant amendments to the Waqf Act and five new legislative proposals.
- IPL 2025 Mega Auction: The auction in Jeddah features 576 players, including 48 capped Indian stars such as Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer. Teams are strategizing for big acquisitions to enhance their squads
- Judiciary Updates: During this session, the Supreme Court will review cases on significant constitutional and environmental matters.
- Economic Developments: India’s GDP growth rate projections remain optimistic, with key sectors recovering post-pandemic.
Tamil Nadu
- Mega Cleanliness Drive in Chennai: A large-scale cleanliness initiative was launched across various zones in Chennai, with over 5,000 volunteers participating to tackle waste management and spread awareness about keeping the city clean
- Expansion of Metro Rail Services: The Chennai Metro Rail Limited announced plans to extend services to underserved suburban areas by 2026, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion
- Archaeological Breakthrough: Ongoing research at an excavation site near Tiruvallur has revealed 16th-century copper inscriptions, shedding light on Tamil Nadu’s rich historical and cultural heritage
- Welfare Program for Fishermen: The Tamil Nadu government introduced a new subsidy program to provide advanced fishing equipment and safety gear to enhance productivity and ensure safety at sea
