CURRENT AFFAIRS 30 November, 2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS 30 November, 2024

1. AUSTRALIA BARS UNDER-16S FROM SOCIAL MEDIA –

• Australia has enacted a world-first legislation to ban children under 16 from social media platforms, such as TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, as part of its effort to protect minors from online harm.
• The law imposes hefty fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance, with social media companies given a year to implement the changes.
• While proponents laud the move as essential for child safety, critics argue the legislation is rushed, may pose privacy risks, and could unintentionally harm vulnerable youth.

2. ICG HOSTS 11TH SAREX-2024 OFF KOCHI COAST –

• The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the 11th edition of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2024) off the Kochi coast, showcasing India’s maritime safety capabilities. Inaugurated by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, the two-day event featured sea drills, workshops, and discussions aimed at enhancing regional search-and-rescue collaboration.
• The exercise aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, highlighting its role as a proactive maritime partner. It brought together key Indian agencies and 38 international observers, signaling India’s growing global maritime cooperation.

3. GUJARAT’S GHARCHOLA HANDICRAFT GETS GI RECOGNITION –

• Gujarat’s iconic handicraft, ‘Gharchola,’ has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Union government, taking the state’s total GI tags to 27, with 23 dedicated to handicrafts.
• This recognition highlights the rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship of Gujarat’s artisans. Presented during the “GI and Beyond – Virasat Se Vikas Tak” program in New Delhi, the accolade underscores the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting its artistic traditions.

4. INDIA RE-ELECTED TO UN PEACEBUILDING COMMISSION FOR 2025-2026 –

• India has been re-elected to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) for the 2025-2026 term, reaffirming its pivotal role in international peace efforts.
• The announcement was made by India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, highlighting the country’s unwavering dedication to promoting global stability as a founding member and major contributor to UN peacekeeping.
• This accomplishment underscores India’s ongoing engagement with the PBC since its establishment in 2005.

5. INTERNATIONAL DAY OF SOLIDARITY WITH THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE 2024, 29 NOVEMBER –

• The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed every year on 29 November. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1977 to highlight the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and promote support for achieving peace in the region.
• This occasion reminds the international community of its responsibility to uphold justice, human rights, and international law for the Palestinian people, who continue to face occupation and displacement.