Daily Current Affairs 21 August 2024, WBPSC Exam Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs for WBPSC Exam

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Economy

India's Revised Power Export Rules Amidst Bangladesh Concerns

• In response to concerns about payment delays from neighboring countries, India has amended its power export regulations.
• These changes empower Indian power companies to repatriate electricity back to India if payment obligations are not met.
• This move aims to mitigate political risks associated with cross-border power trade, particularly in countries like Bangladesh.

• Despite the revised regulations, Adani Power has reaffirmed its commitment to supplying electricity to Bangladesh.
• The company has assured that it will continue to fulfill its contractual obligations under the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB).

• The Godda Power Project plays a pivotal role in strengthening India-Bangladesh bilateral relations.
• By providing cheaper and more reliable electricity, the project contributes to Bangladesh's economic development and energy security.

Science & Technology

A Revolutionary Blood Test for Early Alzheimer's Detection

• Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions worldwide.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for enabling early intervention and potentially slowing down disease progression.
• The PrecivityAD2 blood test offers a more accessible and less invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods.

• Prior to the development of PrecivityAD2, diagnosing Alzheimer's often involved complex procedures like PET scans and lumbar punctures.
• These methods can be costly, time-consuming, and potentially uncomfortable for patients. The new blood test offers a simpler and more patient-friendly approach.

• The PrecivityAD2 blood test represents a promising development in the field of Alzheimer's research.
• As this technology continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize the way this disease is diagnosed and treated.

Geography

The Super Blue Moon of August 2024

• A super blue moon is a rare celestial event that occurs when two full moons fall within the same calendar month.
• Additionally, it must be a supermoon, meaning the moon is at its closest point to Earth (perigee) during its orbit.

• Despite its name, a blue moon does not appear blue. The term simply refers to the occurrence of two full moons in a single month.
• However, under certain atmospheric conditions, such as volcanic eruptions or forest fires, the moon might appear bluish due to particles in the atmosphere scattering blue light.

• Super blue moons are relatively infrequent, occurring approximately every 10 to 20 years. This rarity makes them a captivating astronomical phenomenon.

International News

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Becomes Thailand’s Youngest Prime Minister

• Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a prominent and controversial figure in Thai politics.
• She is the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the position of prime minister, following in the footsteps of her father and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.
• Her ascent to power underscores the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family in Thailand's political arena.

• Paetongtarn secured 319 votes in the parliamentary election, which represents about two-thirds of the House.
• This substantial support indicates strong backing within the legislature despite the challenges her party, Pheu Thai, and her family have faced.
• As a political newcomer, she will have to navigate multiple challenges, including addressing the struggling economy and dealing with competition from other political factions.
• Additionally, her party faces uncertainty, particularly regarding its proposed $14.25 billion cash handout program, which is still pending approval.