Important day
World AIDS Day
▪ World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1 since its inception in 1988, is a significant global event that brings together communities, organizations, and governments to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate solidarity in the fight against this epidemic.
▪ 2024 Theme: “Take the rights path: My health, my right!”
79% Reduction in AIDS Deaths in India
▪ The National AIDS Control Organization and State AIDS Control Organizations are implementing the 95-95-95 strategy.
▪ Since 2010, new AIDS infections have reduced by 44 percent. AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 79 percent. This is higher than global rates.
▪ While the global HIV prevalence is 0.7 percent of the population, in India it is 0.2 percent.
The National AIDS Control Organization (NACO)
▪ Over the last 15 years, the number of people on HIV treatment has increased from 7.7 million in 2010 to 30.7 million in 2023, resulting in a 51% decline in AIDS-related deaths globally.
▪ Established in 1992 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
▪ NACO is recognized as the nodal organization responsible for formulating policies and implementing programs aimed at preventing and controlling HIV/AIDS in India
▪ The UNAIDS report “Take the Rights Path” emphasizes protecting the human rights of those living with and at risk of HIV as essential to ending the AIDS pandemic by 2030.
▪ UNAIDS is leading the global effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Defence, National Security and Terrorism
AgniWarrior 2024
▪ The India-Singapore military exercise, AgniWarrior 2024, is set for November 28 to November 30. It will occur at the Devlali Field Firing Ranges in Maharashtra,
▪ Both countries will share best practices in artillery operations. Cultural exchanges will also take place.
▪ These activities aim to deepen relationships beyond military cooperation.
Appointments
Chief of BrahMos Aerospace
▪ Dr. Jaiteerth Raghavendra Joshi has recently been appointed as the Chief of BrahMos Aerospace, which is renowned for developing the world’s most advanced supersonic cruise missile system.
▪ His appointment marks a step in India’s defence technology sector.
▪ Dr. Joshi has over 30 years of experience in missile technology.
▪ He holds a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from Osmania University.
▪ He also earned a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Warangal.
