The International Olympic Committee named the French Alps as the host for the 2030 Winter Games on July 2024, though the decision is subject to certain conditions.
While presenting the bid to IOC members in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron assured the committee that the government formed after the 2024 Summer Games in Paris would handle all outstanding organisational and financial guarantees.
China, Australia, and India Lead in Forest Area Gains: FAO Report
In a recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India has made significant strides in increasing its forest area, gaining 266,000 hectares annually from 2010 to 2020.
This achievement places India third among the top ten countries in terms of forest area gains. China leads the list with an impressive gain of 1,937,000 hectares, followed by Australia with 446,000 hectares.
Other notable countries in the top ten include Chile, Vietnam, Turkey, the United States, France, Italy, and Romania.
DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System
On July, 2024, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) of India achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to enhance national security.
The organization successfully conducted a flight test of the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System, demonstrating India’s growing capabilities in defending against long-range ballistic missile threats.
Launch of Advanced Frigate Triput: A Milestone in India’s Naval Capabilities
On July, 2024, India’s naval prowess took a significant leap forward with the launch of the first of two Advanced Frigates at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This event marks a crucial milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and its commitment to enhancing naval strength.
The ship has been named Triput, inspired from the powerful arrow described in Indian mythology. The name symbolises the indomitable spirit of the Indian Navy and its ability to strike with precision at long ranges.
C-DOT Signs Agreement With IIT, Roorkee And Mandi
In a significant step towards developing Indigenous technology, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) and Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi (IIT Mandi). Goal for the development of ‘Cell-Free’ 6G Access Points. Both the IITs are collaborating to develop this technology.
Shah Rukh Khan, First Indian Actor, Honoured With Gold Coins
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has been honoured with customised gold coins by the Grevin Museum in Paris. Shah Rukh is the first Indian actor to have gold coins in his name at the museum. The Gervin Museum is a wax museum located on the Grands Boulevards in Paris. Meanwhile, on the work front, Shah Rukh delivered three big blockbusters last year including Atlee’s Jawaan, Siddharth Anand’s Pathan and Rajkumar Hirani’s Donkey.
Bihar Passes Anti-Paper Leak Bill to Combat Exam Malpractices
On July, 2024, the Bihar Assembly passed the Anti-Paper Leak Bill to combat malpractices in government recruitment exams. This bill, introduced by State Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, proposes strict penalties including a minimum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of at least ₹1 crore for those involved in such activities. The bill was passed amidst a walkout by the Opposition, who protested against the alleged deteriorating law and order situation and the denial of special status to Bihar by the Centre.