current affairs

 31 oct 2024

Here are key global events from October 31, 2024:

  1. Politics: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a major $7 billion bailout for Pakistan to address its economic crisis. Additionally, protests erupted in Pakistan following a significant tax increase as part of this IMF deal, sparking nationwide concerns.
  2. Sports: India celebrated a major victory, winning gold in cricket at the Asian Games, while the Kho Kho World Cup continued in India, showcasing indigenous sports on a global stage.
  3. Health: Efforts to address global health were underscored by announcements from the World Health Organization (WHO) prioritizing new strategies to combat diseases amid changing climate patterns.
  4. Here are some noteworthy health discoveries from late October   a. Breast Cancer Prevention Drug in the UK: A new preventive medication for breast cancer, anastrozole, is being tested by the NHS in England. This drug, previously used to treat breast cancer by blocking estrogen production, is now being evaluated as a preventative option for high-risk individuals. Almost 300,000 women may benefit from this drug, marking a milestone in preventive cancer care​ 
  5. Global Cervical Cancer Treatment Advance: A recent study published from the INTERLACE trial, involving centers in the UK, Brazil, India, and other countries, has shown that a short course of chemotherapy before traditional cervical cancer treatment significantly reduces the risk of death by 40%. This approach also lowers the recurrence of the cancer, showing a promising improvement in cervical cancer treatment options​
  6. CRISPR-Based Gene Therapy Approved for Sickle Cell Disease: In a significant moment for gene-editing therapy, the UK authorized the CRISPR/Cas9-based therapy CASGEVY™ to treat sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia. This therapy, developed by Vertex and CRISPR Therapeutics, is the first CRISPR-based treatment approved for human use, highlighting the increasing potential of CRISPR for treating genetic disorders​
  7. Festivals and Occasions: Halloween celebrations brought themed events across the U.S. and Europe. In Mexico, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) events began, honoring cultural traditions around life and death.
  8. Science and Discoveries: New studies on sustainable energy solutions and climate change strategies were published, emphasizing green technology advancements
  9. Awards : The United Nations awarded several young leaders for their environmental contributions, recognizing innovation in eco-friendly projects worldwide.
  10.  India celebrates Diwali with great pomp and show.
  11. Here are the notable events in India from October 31, 2024, across various domains:
    1. Politics: India observed National Unity Day, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Patel's contributions to Indian unity with commemorative events nationwide.
    2. Sports: Indian cricket dominated discussions as the national team prepared for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. India’s strong start to the tournament has fueled hopes for a title win.
    3. Health: India participated in the INTERLACE trial, a groundbreaking study on cervical cancer treatment, offering improved survival rates by using short pre-treatment chemotherapy.
    4. Cinema: Bollywood celebrated Diwali with major releases, including new films featuring prominent actors. These movies reflect India's cultural diversity and have drawn large audiences during the festive season.
    5. Discoveries: Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, unveiled a study on efficient, eco-friendly battery technology, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.
    6. Awards: Indian scientists received recognition at the United Nations for their work on climate resilience, highlighting India’s role in tackling global environmental challenges.