Preparing for UPSC? Check top news events of the past week (Representational/ PTI Photo)
If you are preparing for a government, competitive exam, or recruiting drive, here’s a roundup of important news stories from the week
Staying updated on current events is crucial for success in competitive exams like the UPSC, SBI Bank PO, and other government entrance tests. A solid understanding of recent developments can significantly enhance your performance in both preliminary and main examinations. If you’re preparing for a government exam and want to stay up to date on current affairs, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a recap of important news from the previous week:
Fighting Cybercrime
In response to the alarmingly low arrest rate of just 1% for cybercrimes, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched a pilot program to assist states in investigating such offences. A senior ministry official announced the introduction of the Cyber Investigation Assistance Request (CIAR), which allows state authorities to seek assistance from the federal government in their cybercrime investigations. Sources indicate that state police are struggling to manage cybercrime cases effectively. As the ministry aims to evaluate this new initiative designed to expedite and enhance the quality of cybercrime investigations, the CIAR has yet to be formally implemented. READ MORE
India’s First ‘Artificial Heart’
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) is set to begin animal testing in March 2025 for the nation’s first “artificial heart,” specifically a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Dr Amitabha Bandyopadhyay, head of the Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering at IIT-K and a key figure in the development of LVAD, stated that these trials mark a significant advancement towards creating an accessible, domestic treatment for end-stage heart failure, paving the way for future human trials. READ MORE
Mandalay Jail Durga Puja Turns 100
Traditionally, Durga Puja has served as both a cultural celebration and a platform for sociocultural events. Following the fall of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah in 1757, Raja Nabakrishna Deb’s grand puja at Sovabazar Rajbari in 1790 highlighted the festival’s significance among Bengalis and Hindus worldwide. Twelve friends from Guptipara organized the first community puja, known as “barowari,” in Hooghly, which encouraged open celebrations and played a crucial role in democratising the puja holidays. READ MORE
Ratan Tata Passes Away At 86
On October 9, Ratan Tata, the veteran industrialist and Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on October 7 after experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure, and he remained in serious condition in the intensive care unit. His final rites took place on October 10 at a central Mumbai crematorium, where he was honoured with full state ceremonies, including a ceremonial gun salute from the Mumbai Police Department. READ MORE
Hopfield and Hinton Win 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics
The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics went to scientists John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton for their discoveries and innovations that allow machine learning in artificial neural networks, the award-giving organisation announced on October 8. The prize money for the award is 11 million Swedish crowns ($1.1 million), which is divided, if there are many winners, among them. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences bestows the physics prize. READ MORE
Two Americans Win Nobel In Medicine
On October 7, Americans Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun received the Nobel Prize in medicine for discovering microRNA, which is a basic concept controlling the regulation of gene activity. Their finding is “proving to be fundamentally important for how organisms develop and function,” according to the Nobel Assembly. At Harvard University, Ambrose conducted the studies that earned him the prize. He teaches natural science at the University of Massachusetts Medical School at the moment. As per Thomas Perlmann, Secretary-General of the Nobel Committee, Rackham conducted his research at Harvard Medical School, where he teaches genetics, and Massachusetts General Hospital. READ MORE
