Current affairs 17 May 2024

India topped Global Internet Shutdowns in 2023.

• India recorded 116 internet shutdowns in 2023, leading the world for the sixth consecutive year per Access Now.
• Manipur faced the longest shutdown, lasting 212 days, affecting 3.2 million people.
• 65 shutdowns were in response to communal violence across 13 states/UTs, with a significant rise in prolonged shutdowns.
• In 2023, India's long shutdowns (5 days or more) rose from 15% to over 41%.

Obesity linked to nearly half of all Cancer cases: A Study revealed.

• Sweden University's extensive study with 4.1 million participants over 40 years links obesity to 40% of cancer cases, identifying 32 types of cancer associated with excess weight.
• Previous studies highlighted 13 types, but this research emphasizes the broader impact of obesity on cancer risk.
• Professor Jason Halford: President of the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO).

Police started "Operation Maryada" for conduction of Kedarnath Yatra.

• Operation Maryada in Rudraprayag launched by Uttarakhand Police to ensure decorum during Kedarnath Yatra 2024, targeting drug use and rowdy behavior.
• Pilgrims urged to respect the sanctity of pilgrimage sites; police issuing challans and registering cases against violators.
• An initiative to maintain Devbhoomi Uttarakhand's dignity, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for pilgrims.

Indian Air Force tests "BHISHM", a portable hospital for airdrop.

• Indian Air Force tested BHISHM portable cubes for emergency airdrops, part of Project BHISHM aimed at rapid response for up to 200 casualties.
• These cubes are robust, waterproof, and light, designed for various configurations, making them ideal for diverse emergency scenarios.
• The whole unit contains 72 transportable components that can be conveniently carried by hand, cycle, or even drone

India gifted ambulance service in Sri Lanka amidst shortages.

• Since 2016, India-gifted Suwaseriya 1990 ambulance service in Sri Lanka, after 82 lakh calls & 19 lakh emergencies, struggles with staff and vehicle shortages—over 50 of 322 vehicles are down.
• Economic crisis worsened issues, leading to 400 staff losses from 1,500.
• Despite a LKR 750 million raise, experts say more than donations are needed for sustainability.