Current Affairs 2024: Key Highlights for UPSC Aspirants

The year 2024 has been eventful, with significant developments in politics, economics, environment, and technology. For UPSC aspirants, understanding these current affairs is vital as they play a crucial role in the Civil Services Examination. This article, crafted for Khan Global Studies, provides a detailed overview of the major events of 2024 to aid your preparation.

Geopolitical Developments

India’s Role in the Indo-Pacific

In 2024, India continued to bolster its strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad nations (India, the United States, Japan, and Australia) held a landmark summit in Tokyo, focusing on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and climate change. This year's summit resulted in the formation of a new maritime security framework aimed at countering increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

US Presidential Election

The 2024 US Presidential Election was a pivotal event with global implications. The election saw a record voter turnout, reflecting deep political engagement. The elected President's policies on international trade, climate change, and defense are expected to influence global geopolitics significantly. India, as a strategic partner, will closely watch how these policies unfold.

BRICS Expansion

The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) group saw the inclusion of new members, signaling a shift towards a more multipolar world order. The expansion aims to enhance economic cooperation and address global challenges like climate change and economic inequality. This development is crucial for India’s foreign policy and economic strategy.

Economic Developments

Global Economic Recovery

The global economy showed signs of recovery post-pandemic, with growth rates improving in major economies. India's economy grew at a robust pace, driven by strong domestic consumption and government initiatives to boost manufacturing and exports. The launch of the "Make in India 2.0" initiative aimed to attract foreign investment and foster innovation in the tech sector.

Digital Currency Initiatives

Several countries, including India, made significant strides in developing and implementing digital currencies. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilot, aiming to enhance financial inclusion and reduce transaction costs. This move is expected to revolutionize the financial sector and provide a competitive edge in the global digital economy.

Environmental and Technological Advancements

Climate Change Mitigation Efforts

Climate change remained a pressing issue in 2024. India hosted the Global Climate Summit, where nations committed to more aggressive carbon reduction targets. India announced its "Net Zero by 2070" plan, focusing on renewable energy expansion, afforestation, and sustainable urban development. These efforts are critical for achieving global climate goals and positioning India as a leader in climate action.

Technological Innovations

Technological advancements continued to shape the global landscape. India made significant progress in artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. The government’s "AI for All" initiative aimed to integrate AI into various sectors, including healthcare, education, and agriculture, to improve efficiency and outcomes. The development of a national quantum mission also underscored India's commitment to becoming a leader in cutting-edge technologies.

Social and Cultural Trends

Education Reforms

Education reforms were a major focus in 2024, with the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 gaining momentum. The policy's emphasis on skill development, digital learning, and inclusivity aims to transform India’s educational landscape. Increased investment in educational infrastructure and teacher training programs is expected to enhance the quality of education and prepare the youth for future challenges.

Public Health Initiatives

Public health remained a priority, with efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and ensure equitable access to medical services. The government launched the "Ayushman Bharat 2.0" scheme, expanding coverage and benefits to more citizens. Emphasis on preventive healthcare and mental health awareness has also been a key aspect of public health policies in 2024.

Conclusion

Staying updated with current affairs for UPSC aspirants. The developments of 2024 highlight significant geopolitical shifts, economic progress, environmental commitments, technological advancements, and social reforms. Understanding these events and their implications will not only help in the examination but also provide a broader perspective on the rapidly changing world.