Current affairs 08 July 2024

Singapore approves 16 insects for human consumption.

• Singapore has approved 16 species of insects like crickets, grasshoppers, and locusts for human consumption Imported or farmed insects must adhere to SFA guidelines, ensuring they come from regulated establishments with food safety controls.
• Pre-packed insect foods must be properly labeled, and all insect products will undergo food safety testing to ensure compliance with SFA standards.

Uttar Pradesh Govt to Establish "Mitra Van" Along Nepal Border.

• The Yogi Adityanath government is launching Mitra Van under the Vriksharopan Jan Abhiyan-2024, focusing on enhancing greenery along the Uttar Pradesh and Nepal border.
• The Forest Department plans to plant 35 crore saplings in 35 districts, including those bordering Nepal and other states.

Belarus Joins SCO as 10th Member, Highlighting Bloc's Growing Appeal.

• Belarus has officially become the 10th member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
• The membership was confirmed at the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO.
• Established in 2001 in Shanghai, the SCO has grown from six members to a trans-regional organization with 10 full members, two observer countries, and 14 dialogue partners.
• Headquarters: Beijing, China.

Department of Consumer Affairs to Enhance Right to Repair Portal.

• The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has launched the Right to Repair Portal India to facilitate easy access to repair information and promote product reuse, contributing to the circular economy and reducing e-waste.
• The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution is a government ministry of India.
• The ministry is headed by C. R. Chaudhary (Minister of State).

ICICI Lombard Launches AI-Powered Health Insurance Plan "Elevate".

• ICICI Lombard has introduced Elevate, an AI-powered health insurance product offering personalized solutions for dynamic lifestyles, medical emergencies, and medical inflation.
• ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited is an insurance company in India.
• It is engaged in general insurance, reinsurance, insurance claims management and investment management.