Here is a summary of significant current affairs from November 8, 2024:

Donald Trump secured a return to the White House as the 47th President following the 2024 U.S. presidential election. His comeback highlights a campaign that resonated with his core supporters, promising a renewed focus on U.S. economic growth, border security, and foreign policy realignment, with implications for U.S.-India relations, especially in defense and trade.

In the recently released QS World University Rankings for Asia, India dominated Southern Asia's top institutions. Notable achievements include IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay, both making it to the top 50, showcasing India's continued rise as an educational powerhouse.

Zimbabwe launched its second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, on November 3, 2024, aboard a Chinese Long March 2D rocket. The satellite is part of Zimbabwe's initiative to enhance its technological and infrastructural capabilities through space exploration. This launch supports advancements in weather monitoring, natural resource management, and telecommunication, reflecting Zimbabwe's increasing investment in technological development​

World Radiology Day, observed on November 8, highlighted the importance of medical imaging in healthcare. The event celebrated advancements in radiology that aid in diagnosing and treating various diseases, underlining radiology's crucial role in modern medicine​

South Africa introduced a fast-track visa processing system specifically for Indian nationals, aiming to boost tourism, business, and education exchange between the two countries. This move demonstrates South Africa’s intent to strengthen bilateral ties with India by simplifying travel and fostering economic and cultural exchanges​

A United Nations report warned of worsening food insecurity across 22 countries, projected to affect millions through May 2025. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) highlighted the need for immediate action to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in these vulnerable regions​

As conflict continues in Gaza, international diplomats have stepped up efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Mediated by Egypt and Qatar, these talks are reportedly nearing an agreement to halt the hostilities temporarily, allowing humanitarian aid to reach civilians. The diplomatic push follows increased global pressure to end the ongoing violence and prioritize the safety of civilians in the region​

India and the United Kingdom are close to concluding a comprehensive trade agreement, a significant milestone in post-Brexit relations for the UK. The deal is expected to cover key sectors, including technology, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, potentially increasing trade volumes substantially. Both countries aim to finalize details by year-end, with this deal viewed as a strategic partnership to strengthen economic ties in the Indo-Pacific region​

In the United States, midterm election outcomes are shaping the political landscape, with the Democratic Party retaining the Senate while the Republicans gained a majority in the House of Representatives. This divided Congress is anticipated to affect key policy areas, including healthcare and immigration, and may lead to increased legislative gridlock. Analysts are watching closely to see how the Biden administration will navigate this split in power

Ukraine has reportedly intensified its counteroffensive operations in Russian-occupied regions, with increased assistance from NATO allies in terms of arms and intelligence. This push aims to regain control of strategically important areas as winter approaches, creating a critical period for Ukraine's military efforts. Russia has responded with missile strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, complicating access to power and heating for civilians​

India and the UAE signed a bilateral investment agreement designed to expedite arbitration processes and increase protections for investors. This agreement aims to enhance mutual investment opportunities, especially in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy, fostering stronger economic ties between the two nations​

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and IIT Roorkee are collaborating to develop a millimeter-wave transceiver under India’s Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) initiative. This technology will enable the deployment of 5G in rural areas by using high-frequency signals that can carry data faster over short distances. It marks a significant step toward bridging the digital divide across urban and rural areas in India​

Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) secured the contract to produce India's first indigenous bullet trains, signaling a substantial milestone in India’s rail infrastructure. The bullet train project, part of India’s "Make in India" initiative, aims to reduce travel times and boost economic connectivity within key regions. This project aligns with broader infrastructure goals under the national high-speed rail mission

The Indian government approved a National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal in Gujarat. This facility is envisioned as a world-class museum and tourist destination showcasing India’s maritime history, especially highlighting the ancient port city of Lothal, which dates back to the Indus Valley civilization. The project aims to promote tourism and cultural heritage on an international scale​

The annual joint military exercise "AUSTRAHIND" began on November 8, 2024, in Pune, Maharashtra, involving military forces from India and Australia. This exercise, running until November 21, aims to enhance interoperability and build military cooperation between the two nations, focusing on counter-terrorism and disaster response operations​

IDFC FIRST Bank became the first Indian bank to introduce real-time tracking for international money transfers. Through a partnership with SWIFT, this new feature allows customers to monitor cross-border payments through mobile and internet banking platforms, providing transparency on transaction status

Sharda Sinha, the celebrated folk singer known as the "Nightingale of Bihar," passed away at the age of 72 on November 5, 2024, due to complications from septicemia. Sinha made significant contributions to Indian folk music in languages like Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi, earning honors such as the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan​

A 15-day campaign, "Jal Utsav," was launched by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the National Jal Jeevan Mission, starting on November 6, 2024. The festival, held across 20 districts in various states, aims to foster water conservation and sustainable practices, engaging communities and students in managing water resources responsibly​

As part of India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative, the Indian Army has inducted 550 "Asmi" machine pistols into its Northern Command. This indigenous weapon, developed by DRDO and manufactured by an Indian firm, enhances the army's close-combat capabilities, reflecting India's focus on self-reliance in defense production​