Current affairs 30 April 2024

UNESCO flagged Social Media's role in Gender Stereotypes.

• UNESCO's report, Technology on Her Terms highlighted digital technology's educational benefits but warned against social media fostering gender stereotypes and propagating conservative views.
• It mentioned concerns over user privacy violations, potential distractions from studies, and the increased risk of cyberbullying.
• UNESCO Hq: Paris, France.
• Director-General: Audrey Azoulay.

India shines at Asian U20 Athletics Championships.

• Laxita Vinod Sandilea and Shreeya Rajesh clinched silver and bronze in the women's 800m and 400m hurdles respectively at the 21st Asian U20 Athletics in Dubai.
• The country anticipates more medals as the competition progresses, highlighting a strong performance.
• The Asian U20 Athletics Championships is currently organized by the Asian Athletics Association.

China launches 3 astronauts to Tiangong space station on Shenzhou 18.

• China has launched its 7th crew to the Tiangong space station.
• Shenzhou 18 is commanded by Ye Guangfu, who was part of the Shenzhou 13 mission in 2021-2022.
• Fighter pilots Li Cong, and Li Guangsu, both spaceflight rookies, make up the rest of the crew.
• China began constructing its Tiangong space station in 2021, completing the T-shaped, three-module facility in late 2022.

India to sign 6G co-operation agreement with European body.

• India and the European Union are expanding cooperation on high technologies under the EU-India Trade and Technology Council.
• Bharat 6G Alliance, initiated by the Department of Telecommunications, aims to unify industry, academia, and research for 6G tech advancement.
• In 2023, it partnered with America's Next G Alliance to develop 6G wireless technologies and enhance global supply chains.

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency granted "Navratna" status.

• IREDA is a Non-Banking Financial Institution engaged in promoting, developing, and extending financial assistance for setting up projects relating to new and renewable sources of energy.
• This takes the total number of Navratna PSEs to 17.
• These companies have the autonomy to invest up to ₹1,000 crore.
• Founded: 1987
• Chairman and Managing Director: Shri Pradip Kumar Das