daily current affairs today July 12 2024

25 annually as ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’ (Constitution Murder Day).
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at Base Darwin, Australia. This biennial, multi-national exercise, running from July 12 to August 2, 2024, is a key platform for enhancing international military cooperation and showcasing air combat capabilities.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at Base Darwin, Australia. This biennial, multi-national exercise, running from July 12 to August 2, 2024, is a key platform for enhancing international military cooperation and showcasing air combat capabilities.

Exercise Overview

Historical Context: Exercise Pitch Black has a 43-year history, named for its emphasis on nighttime flying over vast unpopulated areas, creating unique and challenging combat scenarios.
2024 Edition Highlights: This year’s exercise is the largest in its history, featuring participation from 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and approximately 4,400 military personnel.
Focus and Objectives: The primary focus is on Large Force Employment (LFE) warfare, aiming to strengthen international cooperation, enhance operational experience, and facilitate interoperability among diverse air forces.

In a 2024 study by InterNations, Vietnam has been named the most affordable destination for expatriates for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing its reputation as a prime location for an economical lifestyle abroad.
Indonesia is the world’s largest nickel producer, with reserves of 21 million metric tons and a 2023 production of 1.72 million metric tons, up 21.1% from the previous year. Its dominant position is supported by rich saprolite and limonite deposits, including key mines like Pakal Island and Pomalaa. Indonesia’s role in global nickel supply is expected to grow, driven by major projects like Weda Bay amid regulatory challenges and sustainability concerns.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has introduced ‘Safety Ring,’ a new optional security feature for internet and mobile banking, allowing customers to set daily transaction limits.

Kotak Mahindra AMC has launched the Kotak BSE PSU Index Fund, a passive equity scheme that mirrors the BSE PSU Index, comprising 56 PSU stocks. This fund aims to capitalize on the strong momentum in public sector undertaking (PSU) stocks, offering a cost-effective investment vehicle managed systematically by the fund.
As of June 30, 2024, Ireland has overtaken Mauritius to become the fourth most preferred destination for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) routing funds into India. Ireland’s assets under custody (AUC) total Rs 4.41 trillion, slightly surpassing Mauritius, which recorded Rs 4.39 trillion. This shift highlights Ireland’s appeal, with a 26% increase in AUC in the first half of the year compared to Mauritius’ 11% growth.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth inaugurated the GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024) at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) in Kolkata on July 10, 2024. This initiative aims to foster technological solutions for shipyard challenges and promote innovation through Indian start-ups.
Key Highlights of GAINS 2024- Under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Start-up India’ initiatives, GAINS 2024 encourages MSMEs and start-ups to develop innovative solutions for enhancing technological capabilities in the ship design and construction sector. It aims to leverage the entrepreneurial ecosystem to address current and future industry challenges, promoting self-reliance and bolstering national defense capabilities ¹.

Nagaland has been recognized for its efforts in agricultural development, receiving the title of best state in horticulture at the Agriculture Leadership Awards 2024. This accolade highlights the state’s commitment to innovative agricultural practices and rural development.
Sports brand PUMA India has partnered with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to become the Official Footwear Partner for the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics 2024. This collaboration marks a significant step in supporting Indian athletes on the global stage and promoting sports excellence in the country.
The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed July 12 as the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, recognizing the global concern surrounding these environmental issues.