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Current Affairs Daily Digest – August 06 2024

1. Indian Air Force Approves Production Of Astra Mark 1 Missiles

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has given the go-ahead to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to produce 200 Astra air-to-air missiles. These missiles will be used on the IAF’s Su-30 and LCA Tejas fighter jets. This decision was made during a recent visit by Deputy Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to Hyderabad.

What is the Astra Mark 1 Missile?

The Astra Mark 1 is an advanced air-to-air missile developed by India’s DRDO.

Key Features of the Astra Mark 1 Missile

• Advanced Guidance Systems: The missile has advanced guidance systems, including an active radar seeker and infrared homing, for precise targeting and interception of enemy aircraft.
• Multi-Platform Capability: It can be used with various fighter aircraft, making it versatile for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy.
• Combat Performance: Designed to work in all weather conditions, the Astra Mark 1 enhances the range and capability of Indian fighter jets, improving air superiority.
• Indigenous Development: It is part of India’s strategy to develop its own defense technologies, reducing reliance on foreign military equipment.
• Future Upgrades: The Astra program is also working on the Astra Mark 2, which will have a longer range and better capabilities.

2. Tata Group Unveils ₹27,000 Crore Semiconductor Facility in Assam

The Tata Group has started building a ₹27,000 crore semiconductor assembly and test facility in Jagiroad, Assam. This facility aims to produce 15 billion chips annually and will be operational by next year. It is part of the Indian government’s plan to boost semiconductor production.

Facility Details

• Location and Capacity: The facility in Jagiroad, Assam, will package 15 billion semiconductor chips per year for products like electric vehicles, healthcare devices, mobile phones, and laptops.
• Timeline and Development: The groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of India’s first indigenous semiconductor assembly and testing facility, expected to begin partial operations by 2025.

3. Jakarta Hosts 5th AITIGA Joint Committee Meeting

The 5th AITIGA Joint Committee meeting took place in Jakarta from July 29 to August 1, 2024. This meeting aimed to review and improve the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).

Key Developments

• Previous Discussions and Negotiations: The review process began in May 2023, with terms and structure finalized before negotiations started in February 2024. The first two rounds were held in New Delhi and Putrajaya, Malaysia. The third round in Jakarta involved detailed discussions across all eight Sub-Committees.
• Sub-Committee Meetings: These meetings focused on various issues, including market access, rules of origin, standards, sanitary and phytosanitary issues, legal matters, customs procedures, trade remedies, and economic and technical cooperation.

4. President Droupadi Murmu Conferred “Companion of the Order of Fiji” in Capital Suva

President Droupadi Murmu visited Fiji for two days, highlighting the growing partnership between India and Fiji.

Arrival and Ceremonial Welcome

• Guard of Honor: President Murmu received a ceremonial guard of honor from the Fiji Military Force upon her arrival in Suva, Fiji’s capital.
• Traditional Welcome Ceremony: A traditional Fijian welcome ceremony was held for President Murmu, attended by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, showcasing the cultural and diplomatic significance of the visit.

5. MoSPI Launches e-Sankhyiki Portal to Revolutionize Data Management

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) launched the e-Sankhyiki portal on June 29. This portal aims to improve data management and dissemination in India.

Key Features of the e-Sankhyiki Portal

• Data Catalogue Module: Provides a detailed listing of the Ministry’s major data assets, making it easy for users to search and download data.
• Macro Indicators Module: Offers time series data on key macroeconomic indicators, with features for data filtering, visualization, and analysis.

6. Former England cricketer Graham Thorpe Passes Away at 55

The cricketing world mourns the passing of Graham Thorpe, a former England cricketer and coach, who died at the age of 55.

Thorpe’s Playing Career

• International Cricket: Thorpe’s international career spanned from 1993 to 2005, during which he became one of England’s most reliable batsmen.
• Test Cricket: Played 100 Test matches for England, scored 6,744 runs with an average of 44.66, and made 16 centuries.
• One Day Internationals (ODIs): Played 82 ODIs for England, scored 2,380 runs with an average of 37.18, and made 21 half-centuries.

7. National Handloom Day 2024 – Aug 07

On August 7, 2024, India will celebrate the 10th National Handloom Day, recognizing the importance of the handloom industry in India’s culture and economy.

Historical Significance of National Handloom Day

• Roots of National Handloom Day: August 7 marks the anniversary of the Swadeshi Movement’s launch in Kolkata in 1905. This movement promoted self-reliance and Indian craftsmanship.
• From Resistance to Celebration: Handlooms symbolized resistance against British rule during the colonial era. The Indian government established National Handloom Day in 2015 to honor this history and support local artisans.

8. Dinesh Karthik named brand ambassador for SA20 League

South Africa’s SA20 League has named former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik as its brand ambassador. Karthik, celebrated for his impressive IPL career and as a World Cup winner, will collaborate with fellow ambassador AB de Villiers to broaden the league’s global appeal.

Key Points

• Karthik’s Role: As a brand ambassador, Karthik will work alongside AB de Villiers to help promote the SA20 League internationally.
• Commissioner’s Remarks: SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith expressed excitement about Karthik’s participation, praising his cricketing skills and his potential to enhance the league’s reputation worldwide.