Author: Balaguru Mamundi

  • 29 August 2024 Current Affiars

    29 August 2024 Current Affiars

    National News

    Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare Organises 7th Anubhav Awards Ceremony
    Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare Organises 7th Anubhav Awards Ceremony

    The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare today organised the 7th Anubhav Awards Ceremony in New Delhi to recognise the contribution made by Government employees in service. Secretary Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare V. Srinivas conferred five Anubhav awards and 10 Jury Certificates to employees from nine different departments and ministries.

    • The 7th Anubhav Awards Ceremony was held to honor outstanding contributions by central government employees.
    • Secretary V. Srinivas awarded five Anubhav awards and 10 Jury Certificates to employees from nine departments and ministries.
    • The awards aim to inspire current employees to excel in their fields.
    • The 55th Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop was conducted for employees retiring by March 31 next year.
    • The workshop covered pre-retirement processes, forms, and post-retirement benefits.
    India’s Pharma Sector to Touch $130 Billion by 2030: Jitin Prasada
    India’s Pharma Sector to Touch $130 Billion by 2030: Jitin Prasada

    Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada has stressed that the country’s pharmaceutical sector will touch the 130 billion US dollar mark by 2030, which is currently at around 55 billion US dollars. Mr Prasad inaugurated the 10th International Pharmaceutical Exhibition IPHEX at India Expo Mart in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

    • India is becoming a global pharma leader and cost-effective healthcare destination.
    • The Production Linked Incentive scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce import dependence.
    • Pharma exports increased from $14.9 billion to $27.9 billion over the past decade.
    • The sector is the third-largest by volume, with over 3,000 companies and 10,500 manufacturing facilities.
    • India holds a 20% share in global generic medicine demand.
    • IPHEX features over 400 Indian pharma companies and will attract more than 400 international buyers.
    PM Modi Chairs 44th PRAGATI Meeting, Reviews Major Projects and Water Initiatives
    PM Modi Chairs 44th PRAGATI Meeting, Reviews Major Projects and Water Initiatives

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 44th edition of PRAGATI on August 28, marking the first meeting of his third term.

    • Seven major projects were reviewed, with a total cost exceeding Rs. 76,500 crore, spanning road connectivity, rail, coal, power, and water resources sectors across 11 States and UTs.
    • PM Modi stressed the importance of timely project completion to avoid cost overruns and ensure public benefits.
    • He advocated for the “Ek ped Maa ke Naam” campaign to balance environmental concerns with development.
    • AMRUT 2.0 and Jal Jeevan Mission were also reviewed, focusing on water issues in urban and rural areas.
    • Emphasis was placed on effective grievance redressal and the need for robust Operation and Maintenance mechanisms for water projects.
    • The Prime Minister suggested involving women self-help groups and youth for maintenance work, and highlighted the need for district-level water resource surveys and source sustainability.

    Banking news

    Gujarat Surpasses UP in Attracting Bank Funds for Projects in FY24, Reports RBI Study

    Gujarat attracted funds for 154 projects in FY24, up from 14% in FY23 to 14.7% of the total projects financed by banks and financial institutions (FIs).

    • Record Investment: Total sanctioned project costs reached a record high of Rs 3,90,978 crore (around Rs 4 trillion) in FY24.
    • Uttar Pradesh’s Decline: Uttar Pradesh received funds for 69 projects, decreasing from 16.2% in FY23 to 7.6% of the total funds in FY24, though it remained among the top 5 states.
    • Top States: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat, along with Uttar Pradesh, were among the top 5 states receiving project funding, with these states together accounting for about 55% of the total sanctioned project cost.
    • Odisha’s Drop: Odisha fell from 3rd place in FY23 (11.8% of total projects cost) to 6th place in FY24 (7.6% of total projects cost).
    • Infrastructure Focus: The study highlighted that the infrastructure sector, particularly ‘Roads & Bridges’ and ‘Power,’ attracted the majority of capital investments, reflecting a strong focus on infrastructure development.
    • Investment Cycle: The increase in private corporate investments indicates a positive investment cycle.

    About Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

    • Governor: Shaktikanta Das (25th Governor of RBI)
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
    • Established: April 1, 1935

    Gujarath:

    • Capital: Gandhinagar
    • Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel
    • Governor: Acharya Devvrat
    RBI Cancels Margdarshak Financial Services’ Registration Due to High NPAs and Repayment Defaults
    RBI Cancels Margdarshak Financial Services' Registration Due to High NPAs and Repayment Defaults

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the Certificate of Registration (COR) of Margdarshak Financial Services Limited (MFSL) based in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

    • As of March 31, 2021, MFSL failed to meet regulatory requirements, including maintaining a Net Owned Fund (NOF) of Rs 5 crore and a Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 15%.
    • The company was found to have defaulted on Rs 49.27 crore in repayments and faced significant cash flow issues.
    • With reported losses of Rs 187 crore and net NPAs of Rs 82.37 crore, the company’s ability to continue operations was in question.
    • Under Section 45-1(a) of the RBI Act, 1934, MFSL can no longer operate as a Non-Banking Financial Institution (NBFI).

    Yes Bank and Newtap Finance Partner with CRED for Personalized Financing Solutions; HDFC Bank Teams Up with Zeta for UPI Credit Line

    Yes Bank and Newtap Finance Partner with CRED for Personalized Financing Solutions; HDFC Bank Teams Up with Zeta for UPI Credit Line

    Yes Bank has entered a co-lending partnership with Newtap Finance Private Limited to offer personalized financing through the CRED platform. Dreamplug Technologies Private Limited (DTPL), operator of CRED, will act as the Lending Service Provider (LSP) for both Yes Bank and Newtap Finance.

    • This collaboration aligns with Yes Bank’s strategy of fostering fintech partnerships for quality growth.
    • CRED members will benefit from competitive rates and a superior digital experience.

    HDFC Bank and Zeta Partnership:

    • On August 26, 2024, HDFC Bank partnered with Zeta to enhance its Credit Line on UPI (CLOU) offerings.
    • Zeta’s Digital Credit as a Service (DCaaS) solution will enable HDFC Bank to launch innovative credit products under the NPCI’s CLOU scheme.

    Bank Details:

    Yes Bank Limited:

    • MD & CEO: Prashant Kumar
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
    • Tagline: “Experience our expertise”
    • Established: 2004

    HDFC Bank Limited:

    • MD & CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
    • Tagline: “We Understand Your World”
    • Established: 1994

    Sports news

    Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Air Pistol Shooting Range in Gwalior Honoring Manu Bhaker’s Olympic Achievements

    Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Air Pistol Shooting Range in Gwalior Honoring Manu Bhaker's Olympic Achievements
    • Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurated a 10-meter air pistol shooting range at Jiwaji Club, Gwalior, named after Manu Bhaker.
    • Manu Bhaker, who won 2 bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is the first Indian athlete post-independence to win two medals in the same Olympics.
    • The 10m air pistol range is a standard facility for indoor competitive shooting, using electronic or paper targets and 4.5-mm air pistols powered by compressed air or CO2.

    Manu Bhaker’s Achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics:

    • First Bronze: Women’s individual 10m air pistol event, making her the first Indian woman shooter to win an Olympic medal.
    • Second Bronze: 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event with Sarabjot Singh, defeating South Korea 16-10.
    • Bhaker joins an elite group of Indian athletes with multiple individual Olympic medals:
      • P.V. Sindhu: Silver (2016 Rio) and Bronze (2020 Tokyo) in women’s singles badminton.
      • Sushil Kumar: Bronze (2008 Beijing) and Silver (2012 London) in men’s freestyle wrestling (66 kg).

    Additional Info: Norman Gilbert Pritchard, a British-Indian athlete, won silver medals in 200m sprint and 200m hurdles at the 1900 Paris Olympics, often considered the first Asian-born athlete to win Olympic medals.

    Note: Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia is currently serving as the Union Minister of Communications for India

    Appointment news

    Satish Kumar Appointed as First SC Chairman & CEO of Indian Railway Board

    Satish Kumar Appointed as First SC Chairman & CEO of Indian Railway Board

    On August 27, 2024, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) appointed Satish Kumar, an Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS) officer, as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Indian Railway Board (IRB).

    • Historical Significance: Kumar is the first person from the Scheduled Castes (SC) or Dalit community to hold this position in IRB’s history.
    • Tenure: He will assume office on September 1, 2024, serving until his superannuation, with potential re-employment on a contract basis from January 1 to August 31, 2025, or until further orders.
    • Successor: Kumar succeeds Jaya Varma Sinha, who will retire on August 31, 2024, and will then join the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) as an administrative member.

    Agreement news

    ICAR-CIFE and VAMNICOM Sign MoU to Boost Cooperative Management in Fisheries Sector
    ICAR-CIFE and VAMNICOM Sign MoU to Boost Cooperative Management in Fisheries Sector

    On August 26, 2024, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) and Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Cooperative Management (VAMNICOM) signed an MoU to enhance cooperative management in the fisheries sector.

    • The partnership aims to support the establishment of 2 lakh Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Dairy, and Fishery Cooperatives in every Panchayat.
    • The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Ravishankar CN, Director and Vice Chancellor of ICAR-CIFE, and Dr. Hema Yadav, Director of VAMNICOM, at ICAR-CIFE’s Mumbai campus.
    • The MoU focuses on integrating advanced technology and promoting value addition in fishery cooperatives.

    Defence News

    India’s 2nd Nuclear Missile Submarine Commissioned by Rajnath Singh

    India’s 2nd Nuclear Missile Submarine Commissioned by Rajnath Singh

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will commission INS Arighat (S-3), India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), in Visakhapatnam.

    • INS Arighat is equipped with 750-km range K-15 nuclear ballistic missiles and will patrol the Indo-Pacific.
    • Key attendees include Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, and DRDO officials.
    • INS Arighat, alongside INS Arihant (S-2), strengthens India’s nuclear triad and strategic deterrence.
    • The new SSBN features advancements over INS Arihant and follows with plans to commission INS Aridaman (S-4) next year and a fourth SSBN, codenamed S-4*.
    • India will introduce a new class of larger submarines with 3,000-km range nuclear missiles and additional missile tubes.
    • The Indian Navy will also commission INS Surat (guided missile stealth destroyer), INS Taragiri (stealth guided missile frigate), and INS Vagsheer (Kalveri class attack submarine), with more submarines on order.

    Scheme news

    PMJDY Celebrates a Decade of Financial Inclusion Under Modi’s Leadership
    PMJDY Celebrates a Decade of Financial Inclusion Under Modi's Leadership

    The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), a National Mission for Financial Inclusion, launched on August 28, 2014 by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, completed 10 years (decade) of successful implementation.

    • Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, PMJDY is the world’s largest financial inclusion initiative.
    • The scheme has integrated 53.13 crore people into the formal banking system by August 14, 2024.
    • 55.6% (29.56 crore) of Jan-Dhan account holders are women.
    • 66.6% (35.37 crore) of accounts are located in rural or semi-urban areas.

    Important days

    India Celebrates National Sports Day on August 29 to Honor Major Dhyan Chand and Promote Sports
    India Celebrates National Sports Day on August 29 to Honor Major Dhyan Chand and Promote Sports

    National Sports Day is celebrated annually on August 29 to honor the spirit of sports in India.

    • The day, established by the Indian government in 2012, coincides with the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.
    • Major Dhyan Chand, born on August 29, 1905, in Prayagraj, is known as the ‘Wizard of Hockey.’
    • Dhyan Chand’s illustrious career spanned from 1926 to 1948, during which he played 185 matches and scored over 400 goals.
    • His leadership led the Indian hockey team to three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936.
    • National Sports Day highlights the importance of sports in health, community building, and inspiring future generations.

    Books And Author News

    Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari launches first comic book on Indian Air Force heroes
    Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari launches first comic book on Indian Air Force heroes

    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has launched the first comic book in the series of heroes of the Indian Air Force today. The book published by the Indian Air Force is aimed at presenting historical and heroic narratives of the Indian Air Force since its inception.

    • The book presents historical and heroic narratives of the Indian Air Force, aiming to educate and inspire youth.
    • It features stories about Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh DFC and the 1971 Battle of Boyra.
    • The comic includes information on Air Force career choices and eligibility criteria.
    • The book will be distributed for free to young children during Air Force induction publicity drives.
    • A digital version will be released on Air Force Day, October 8.

    Indian Air Force:

    • Headquarters: New Delhi
    • Founded: 8 October 1932, India
  • Editorial 29 August 2024

    Editorial 29 August 2024

    Title: ​ ​ ​War And Peace: On India And A Russia-Ukraine Peace Initiative

    Just days after his visit to Kyiv, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s telephonic conversations with U.S. President Joseph Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have raised hopes that New Delhi is ready to take the plunge and attempt peacemaking in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Mr. Modi’s travel to the UN in September, where he will meet U.S. and European leaders and possibly Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy again, and another visit to Russia in October for the BRICS summit, have fuelled those hopes. However, those who are boosting speculation of an Indian role may benefit from a careful consideration of the circumstances, and India’s position thus far. Since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, India has remained distant from the outcomes of what External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had once called “Europe’s war” and any peace process that does not involve bringing Russia and Ukraine to the table for talks. It had even disassociated itself from the Swiss peace summit. While Mr. Modi has consistently said that India is “on the side of peace” alone, New Delhi has been seen to be partial to Moscow, given its historical ties and military and energy dependencies. It will need to recast itself in a more unbiased image. Meanwhile, the war continues without pause, indicating the belief in both parties of there still being military gains to be made. That Russia launched deadly attacks on Ukraine just before the Modi Moscow visit in July, and Ukraine carried out operations into Russia’s Kursk Oblast just before his visit to Kyiv last week, demonstrate the dangerous power play and messaging Mr. Zelenskyy and Mr. Putin can indulge in, regardless of their guest’s sensitivities.

    With such entrenched positions, New Delhi must proceed with care if it indeed seeks to join the ranks of others wanting involvement in conflict resolution. Successful efforts have been few, and have required focused agendas — the Black Sea Grain Initiative; the IAEA effort, on nuclear safety at the Zaporizhzhia power plant; and the latest exchange of Russian and Ukrainian prisoners. India must also articulate its own principles for a ceasefire compromise and lasting peace. The Modi government may well benefit from studying India’s own history: In the 1950s, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, at the instance of Vienna, mediated with Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev on troops withdrawal from the north-east zone of Austria post-war, in return for promises of Austrian neutrality. An Indian peace initiative will be further complicated by the proposals Ukraine and Russia have themselves put forth: Mr. Zelenskyy insists on a full military withdrawal from Ukraine by Russia first, and Mr. Putin has called for Ukrainian forces to withdraw from regions now occupied by Russia, and for Kyiv to formally give up any efforts to join NATO.

    Meaning of the word:

    WordMeaningSynonymsAntonyms
    Speculation“Speculation” refers to the act of forming theories or guesses about something without having all the necessary information or evidence. It often involves making predictions or assumptions based on incomplete data.Guesswork
    Conjecture
    Assumption
    Theorizing    		Certainty
    Fact
    Proof
    Evidence
    Indulgemeans to allow oneself to enjoy something, often something that is considered a luxury or a pleasure. It can also mean to give in to a desire or craving.Pamper
    Spoil
    Satiate
    Gratify    		Resist
    Deprive
    Restrict
    Abstain
    ArticulateAs a verb: To articulate means to express or convey thoughts, ideas, or feelings clearly and effectively. For example, if someone articulates their point well, they are able to communicate their ideas in a way that is easy for others to understand. As an adjective: When used to describe a person, articulate means that they are able to speak clearly and express themselves well. For instance, an articulate speaker is someone who communicates their message in a clear and effective manner.  Eloquent
    Clear
    Expressive
    Well-spoken    		Inarticulate
    Unclear
    Mumbled
    Tongue-tied
  • 28 August 2024 Current Affairs

    28 August 2024 Current Affairs

    National News

    Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to Develop ‘Shri Krishna Gaman Path’
    Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to Develop ‘Shri Krishna Gaman Path’

    In a significant move to boost religious tourism and cultural heritage, the Chief Ministers of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have announced plans to develop a new religious circuit called the ‘Shri Krishna Gaman Path’. This initiative aims to connect the birthplace of Lord Krishna in Mathura with the sacred city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, tracing the footsteps of one of Hinduism’s most revered deities.

    • Announced by: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma.
    • Objective: Boost religious tourism and cultural heritage.
    • Collaborating States: Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
    • Religious Significance: Connects Krishna’s birthplace (Mathura) to the Sandipani Ashram (Ujjain), tracing his divine journey.

    Key Locations:

    • Mathura: Krishna’s birthplace.
    • Ujjain: Site of Sandipani Ashram, Krishna’s education center.

    Special Feature: Includes locations marked by Krishna’s footprints, adding a spiritual dimension for devotees.

    Madhya Pradesh:

    • Capital: Bhopal (Executive Branch)
    • Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel

    Rajasthan:

    • Chief minister: Bhajan Lal Sharma
    • Capital: Jaipur (Executive Branch)
    • Governor: Haribhau Bagade
    MHA Announces 5 New Districts in Ladakh, Expanding Administration and Governance

    The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), announced the creation of 5 new districts in the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh, namely, Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang. With the formation of the new districts, Ladakh’s total number of districts has increased to 7.

    • New Districts Created: Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang.
    • Total Number of Districts: Increases from 2 (Leh and Kargil) to 7.

    Instructions:

    • Committee Formation: To evaluate district headquarters, boundaries, and structure.
    • Report Deadline: Within 3 months.

    Objective:

    • Governance Improvement: Enhance service delivery and Central government benefits in remote areas.
    • Progress: Ensure that development reaches all corners of Ladakh.

    Background:

    • Historical Context: Ladakh was part of Jammu and Kashmir until the 2019 reorganization.
    • Legislative Changes:
      • August 5, 2019: Article 370 repealed, ending J&K’s special status.
      • August 9, 2019: Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act bifurcated J&K into 2 Union Territories (UTs).

    Minister of home minister: Officeholders: Manish Tiwari (Joint secretary to the Government of India), Amit Shah (Minister)

    Appointment News

    Jay Shah Elected as New International Cricket Council Chairman

    Jay Shah has been elected unopposed as the new Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), succeeding Greg Barclay. This appointment marks a significant moment in cricket administration, as Shah becomes the youngest person ever to hold this prestigious position.

    • New Role: Jay Shah elected unopposed as ICC Chair, succeeding Greg Barclay.
    • Significance: Shah becomes the youngest person to hold this position.
    • Current Position: Shah is the Secretary of the BCCI.
    • Commencement Date: He will start as ICC Chair on December 1, 2024.

    Election Process:

    • Greg Barclay did not seek re-election.
    • Shah was the sole nominee, leading to his unopposed election.

    Background:

    • 2009: Began career in cricket administration in Gujarat.
    • 2019: Appointed BCCI Secretary.
    • 2022: Joined ICC’s Finance & Commercial Affairs (F&CA) committee.
    • 2023: Became chair of the ICC’s F&CA committee.
    • 2021-2024: Served as Asian Cricket Council president.

    Centre Appoints B Srinivasan as New NSG Director General

    The Centre has appointed senior IPS officer B Srinivasan as the new Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG), according to a Personnel Ministry order issued on August 27. Srinivasan, a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Bihar cadre, will serve as the NSG DG until August 31, 2027, the date of his superannuation. He is currently the director of Bihar Police Academy, Rajgir.

    Background and Appointment Details

    B Srinivasan’s appointment follows the exit of Nalin Prabhat, who has been named as the Special Director General of Police in Jammu and Kashmir. Prabhat, also a 1992 batch IPS officer, was initially appointed as NSG Chief in April for a tenure up to August 31, 2028. However, his tenure was cut short, and he has been reassigned to Jammu and Kashmir Police, taking over from R.R. Swain on September 30.

    NSG: National Security Guard

    • Founded: 22 September 1986
    • Formed: 16 October 1984; 39 years ago
    • Headquarters: New Delhi

    Economy News

    SBI Projects India’s GDP Growth of 7.0% to 7.1% for Q1 FY 2024-25

    According to State Bank of India (SBI’s) Economic Research Department (ERD) report- ‘Ecowrap’, India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to grow by 7.0% to 7.1% in 1st Quarter (Q1: April-June) of Financial Year 2024-25(FY 25).

    • GDP Growth Projection:
      • Estimated Range: 7.0% to 7.1% for Q1 FY 2024-25 (April-June).
    • Gross Value Added (GVA):
      • Estimated Range: 6.7% to 6.8%, with a downward bias.
    • Corporate Sector Performance:
      • Top-line and Bottom-line Growth: 9% growth reported by around 4,000 listed entities compared to Q1 FY24.
      • Corporate GVA: Increased by approximately 10.9% in Q1 FY25, down from 17% in Q4 FY24 and 26% in Q3 FY24.
    • Agricultural Sector Growth:
      • Estimated Range: 4.5% to 5% in FY25, which is about 30 basis points higher than the RBI forecast.

    About State Bank of India (SBI):

    • Chairman: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty (effective from August 28, 2024)
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
    • Tagline: “The Banker to Every Indian”
    • Founded: July 1, 1955

    Top of Form

    Bottom of Form

    Banking News

    RBI Launches Unified Lending Interface (ULI) Platform Nationwide

    RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das introduced ULI at the ‘Global Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure and Emerging Technologies’ in Bengaluru on August 26, 2024.

    Pilot Program: Launched in 2023, ULI will soon be available nationwide.

    Key Features:

    • Simplified Credit Appraisals: Facilitates easier credit evaluations, especially for small and rural borrowers.
    • Digital Information Flow: Enables seamless consent-based access to land records, PAN, Aadhaar, and credit histories.
    • Standardized APIs: Reduces technical integration complexity and accelerates credit approvals with minimal documentation.

    Background: ULI is inspired by the success of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), launched in 2016.

    Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Overview

    • Governor: Shaktikanta Das
    • Deputy Governors:
    • Swaminathan Janakiraman
    • Michael Debabrata Patra
    • M. Rajeshwar Rao
    • T. Rabi Sankar
    • Establishment: April 1, 1935
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Agreement news

    REC and JNPA Forge Rs 45,000 Crore Funding Agreement for Vadhavan Port Development

    Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC), a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Power, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) to fund up to Rs 45,000 crore for various upcoming projects, including the development of Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra.

    Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC):

    • Chairman and Managing Director: Vivek Kumar Dewangan
      • Role: Public sector NBFC, PFI, and IFC providing loans for infrastructure projects.

    Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA):

    • Chairman: Unmesh Sharad Wagh
      • Role: Leading container-handling port managing about 50% of India’s containerized cargo.

    MoU Highlights:

    • Funding: Up to Rs 45,000 crore allocated for various projects, including the development of Vadhavan Port.
    • Signatories:
      • REC: Rahul Dwivedi, IAS, Executive Director
      • JNPA: Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman
    • Inauguration Presence: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MOPSW).

    Vadhavan Port Project:

    • Location: Palghar district, Maharashtra.
    • Project Value: Rs 76,220 crore.
    • Interest: JNPA holds a 74% stake in the Vadhavan Port Project (VPPL), a joint venture with the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB).

    Objective: Cooperation: JNPA will implement infrastructure projects while REC will provide the necessary funding.

    REC:

    • Headquarters: National Capital Region
    • Parent organization: Power Finance Corp
    • Founded: 25 July 1969

    Award news

    Union Minister Giriraj Singh Presents 24th Handicrafts Export Awards

    Union Minister Giriraj Singh Presented EPCH’s 24th Handicrafts Export Awards Union Minister Giriraj Singh, Ministry of Textiles (MoT), presented the 24th Handicrafts Export Awards to Indian handicraft exporters during a ceremony organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) at the Convention Hall – The Ashok Hotel, in New Delhi, Delhi.

    Event: 24th Handicrafts Export Awards ceremony

    • Organized by: Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)
    • Venue: Convention Hall, The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi
    • Minister: Giriraj Singh, Ministry of Textiles

    Recognition:

    • Performance Period: 2019-20 and 2020-21
    • Awards: 123 awards to 62 winners for 2019-20 and 61 winners for 2020-21
    • Lifetime Achievement Award: Muzafar Hussain, Jammu and Kashmir
    • Top All Handicrafts Award: Ajay Gupta’s CL Gupta Exports Limited (Uttar Pradesh) for both years

    Award Categories:

    • Top Export Award
    • Platinum Performer Certificate
    • Product Group-wise Awards
    • Woman Entrepreneur Award
    • Regional Awards

    Objective:

    • Foster Competition: Encourage healthy competition among exporters
    • Recognize Achievements: Celebrate excellence in the handicrafts export sector
    Jana Small Finance Bank Wins Four Awards at ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Awards 2024

    Bengaluru (Karnataka) based Jana Small Finance Bank (SFB) Limited was honoured with 4 awards: Best Small Finance Bank (India), Best Performance on Profitability (Runners-up), Best Performance on Asset Quality, and Best Performance on Risk Management, at the 2nd ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Awards (2024), organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on 22nd and 23rd August 2024 in New Delhi, Delhi.

    Awards Received by Jana Small Finance Bank:

    • Best Small Finance Bank (India)
    • Best Performance on Profitability (Runners-up)
    • Best Performance on Asset Quality
    • Best Performance on Risk Management

    Event Details:

    • Occasion: 2nd ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Awards 2024
    • Dates: August 22-23, 2024
    • Organized by: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
    • Location: New Delhi, Delhi

    Other Award:

    • Jammu & Kashmir Bank Limited (J&K Bank):
      • Award: Best Performance on Profitability (Private Sector Bank – Mid-Size category)

    About the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC):

    • Director General: Dr. Rajeev Singh
    • Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
    • Founded: 1925

    Defence News

    Indian Air Force’s Sarang Team to Showcase at Egypt International Airshow 2024

    The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken a significant step in international aviation diplomacy by dispatching its renowned Sarang Helicopter Display Team to participate in the inaugural Egypt International Airshow. This event, scheduled from September 3 to 5, 2024, at the Al-Alamein International Airport in Egypt’s El Dabaa, marks a crucial moment for India to demonstrate its indigenous aviation capabilities on the global stage.

    Event: Egypt International Airshow

    • Dates: September 3-5, 2023
    • Venue: Al-Alamein International Airport, El Dabaa, Egypt

    IAF Participation:

    • Team: Sarang Helicopter Display Team
    • Aircraft: 5 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH Mk-I) by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
    • Key Features: Multi-role capabilities, hinge-less composite main rotor

    Transportation: Mode: C-17 Globemaster aircraft

    Significance:

    • Showcasing: India’s indigenous aviation capabilities and self-reliance initiative (‘Atmanirbharta’)
    • Diplomatic Impact: Strengthens ties with Egypt and other participating nations, opening potential defense and aviation collaborations

    Strategic Importance of Venue:

    • Location: Al-Alamein International Airport, a key hub along the Mediterranean for global air and commercial transport

    Indian Air Force:

    • Headquarters: New Delhi
    • Founded: 8 October 1932, India
    • Chief of Defence Staff (CDS): General Anil Chauhan

    Sports news

    Five-Year-Old Teghbir Singh Conquers Mount Kilimanjaro

    Teghbir Singh, a five-year-old from Ropar, Punjab, has become the youngest Asian to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.

    Height: Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

    Climb Details:

    • Departure: August 18, 2024
    • Summit Reached: August 23, 2024
    • Summit: Uhuru Peak
    Books and author news
    Soumya Swaminathan Releases Autobiography of Activist Kalpana Sankar

    Former WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan Releases Autobiography of Activist Kalpana Sankar Soumya Swaminathan, the Chairperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation and former World Health Organization (WHO) Chief Scientist, released ‘The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women’, an autobiography written by activist Dr. Kalpana Sankar.

    Book Release:

    • Title: The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women
      • Author: Dr. Kalpana Sankar
      • Released by: Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO Chief Scientist and Chairperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation
      • Publisher: Rupa Publications India Private Limited, New Delhi

    Event Details:

    • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
      • Occasion: Celebration of women’s empowerment and social entrepreneurship

    Book Highlights:

    • Content: Chronicles Dr. Sankar’s transition from a nuclear scientist to a pioneering entrepreneur.
      • Focus: Emphasizes grassroots initiatives for women’s economic empowerment and community development.

    Notable Attendee: Swaady Martin-Leke: Chairperson and CEO of YSWARA, South Africa, received the first copy of the book.

  • Editorial 28 August 2024

    Editorial 28 August 2024

    Coordinated attacks: On Pakistan and the Baloch conflict  
    Pakistan cannot take a militaristic approach to the Baloch conflict 

    Ever since the Taliban, hosted by Pakistan’s security forces, recaptured Kabul in August 2021, Pakistan, especially in its Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces neighbouring Afghanistan, has seen a surge in terrorist attacks. In 2023 alone, there were over 650 recorded attacks, with 23% occurring in Balochistan, which is Pakistan’s largest province by landmass and a hotbed of separatist insurgency. But even in this new normal, Monday was one of the bloodiest days for Balochistan and Pakistan. On the 18th death anniversary of Nawab Akbar Bugti, a Baloch nationalist leader killed by the Pakistani military in 2006, separatists carried out coordinated attacks across the province. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the many deaths. According to security officials, the separatists damaged infrastructure and executed migrant labourers from Punjab. That the attacks occurred in different parts of Balochistan show the growing reach and capability of the insurgency. Bugti’s death anniversaries have seen violent incidents in the past, but Pakistan’s military and intelligence services were caught off guard on August 26.

    Historically, Pakistan has taken a ruthless, militarist approach towards the Baloch problem. Balochistan, despite its wealth of natural resources, is the country’s most impoverished region. Pakistan has historically neglected the province. Punjab, on the other hand, grew to be influential in national politics and economically prosperous, leading to strong anti-Punjab tendencies within sections of the Baloch community. This, along with the poor living conditions, was exploited by the separatists to drum up support for their cause. They often attack the federal government “for extracting” resources without offering any help to the local economy. Baloch separatists have cited the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which goes through the province, as an example of this exploitation, and targeted Chinese interests. The Pakistani establishment has also failed to engage with the civil rights movements in Balochistan, such as the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, which organised several sit-ins in Islamabad and Baloch cities this year to draw the attention of the federal authorities to widespread human rights abuses in the province. Such activists were often painted as “enemies of Pakistan”, which left the military with the only option of using force against the separatists. But state violence has only strengthened the separatists — as the latest attacks underscore. If Pakistan is serious about stability and security in its largest province, it should take measures to address the developmental concerns of the locals, stop the rights violations and engage with the peaceful civil rights voices to reset ties with the Balochis.

    WordMeaningSymonsAntonym
    Insurgency“Insurgency” refers to a rebellion or uprising against a recognized authority or government, often involving armed conflict.Revolt
    Rebellion
    Uprising
    Mutiny    		Loyalty
    Compliance
    Obedience
    Support  
    Impoverished“Impoverished” refers to a state of extreme poverty or lacking in essential resources. Poor
    Destitute
    Needy
    Deprived      		Wealthy
    Rich
    Comfortable 
    Affluent  
    Prosperous“Prosperous” describes a state of success, wealth, or thriving well-being, often characterized by financial success, growth, and overall well-being.Wealthy Successful
    Rich
    Well-off      		Poor Struggling
    Needy
    Failing
  • 26th and 27th august 2024 current affairs

    26th and 27th august 2024 current affairs

    National News

    India Launches World’s First Mobile Hybrid Rocket: RHUMI-1
    India Launches World’s First Mobile Hybrid Rocket: RHUMI-1

    India’s space efforts received a significant boost with the successful launch of RHUMI-1, the world’s first mobile hybrid rocket. This achievement also marks a milestone as the first reusable hybrid rocket in India. Developed by Chennai-based startup Space Zone India in collaboration with Martin Group, RHUMI-1 represents a leap forward in rocket technology, promising to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs in space exploration.

    • Historic Launch: RHUMI-1 is the world’s first mobile hybrid rocket and India’s first reusable hybrid rocket.
    • Launch Location: Thiruvidandhai, near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, using a mobile launcher.
    • Payload: Carried three CubeSats and 50 PICO satellites for climate change research.
    • Flight Details: Achieved an altitude of 35 kilometers with a brief suborbital trajectory.
    • Hybrid Technology: Combines solid fuel with a liquid or gaseous oxidizer, offering enhanced safety and performance.
    • Unique Features: Includes a generic-fuel-based hybrid motor, electrically triggered parachute, and is 100% pyrotechnic-free.
    • Significance: Advances in reusability and cost reduction, making space exploration more accessible and sustainable.
    India Celebrates National Space Day with Launch of ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ E-Magazine
    India Celebrates National Space Day with Launch of ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ E-Magazine

    On India’s inaugural National Space Day, the nation witnessed a significant educational milestone with the release of ‘Sapno ki Udaan’, an innovative e-magazine. This launch, spearheaded by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, marks a fusion of science, creativity, and education, aimed at inspiring the next generation of Indian students.

    Virtual Unveiling

    The e-magazine was officially unveiled through a virtual launch event, reflecting the digital-first approach of modern educational initiatives. This format allowed for widespread participation and accessibility across the country.

    Key Attendees

    • Dharmendra Pradhan: Union Minister of Education
    • Jayant Chaudhary: Minister of State for Education
    • Sanjay Kumar: Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy
    • Other notable attendees included Vipin Kumar (Additional Secretary), Prof. D.P. Saklani (Director, NCERT), Rahul Singh (Chairperson, CBSE), and Prof. Saroj Sharma (Chairperson, NIOS)

    About ‘Sapno ki Udaan’

    Content and Contributors

    The e-magazine presents a diverse array of content, including:

    • Poetry
    • Essays
    • Stories
    • Anecdotes
    • Riddles

    What makes ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ unique is its sourcing of content from a wide range of contributors, including students, teachers, and parents from across India.

    Theme and Significance: The inaugural issue centers around the theme of space, chosen to commemorate the first anniversary of Chandrayaan-3’s historic landing on the lunar South Pole. This theme resonates with the vast imagination of children and India’s recent achievements in space exploration.

    Publication and Vision of ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ E-Magazine

    Publication Details:

    • Frequency: Initially quarterly, with plans to transition to monthly.
    • Accessibility: Available online via the NCERT portal.

    Educational Impact and Vision:

    • Alignment with NEP 2020: Supports the National Education Policy 2020 by enhancing accessibility and preparing students for global challenges.
    • Fostering Inquiry: Aims to celebrate scientific achievements and encourage scientific curiosity among students.

    Collaborative Effort:

    • Partners: Developed in collaboration with the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, and NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training).

    Scheme news

    Cabinet Approves ‘Vigyan Dhara’ Scheme by Department of Science and Technology
    Cabinet Approves ‘Vigyan Dhara’ Scheme by Department of Science and Technology

    The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of three umbrella schemes merged into a unified central sector scheme called ‘Vigyan Dhara’ under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The scheme is designed to enhance efficiency in fund utilization and ensure better synchronization among the sub-schemes and programs. With an outlay of ₹10,579.84 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26), ‘Vigyan Dhara’ aims to bolster the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem in India.

    Overview:

    • Approval: Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the unified ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
    • Purpose: Merges three existing schemes to enhance efficiency and synchronize programs in India’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem.

    Financial Details:

    • Outlay: ₹10,579.84 crore for the period 2021-2026, as per the 15th Finance Commission.

    Key Components:

    1. S&T Institutional and Human Capacity Building: Strengthens S&T infrastructure and R&D labs in academic institutions.
    2. Research and Development (R&D): Promotes research in basic science, sustainable energy, water, and international collaboration.
    3. Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment: Supports innovations across educational levels, industries, and startups.

    Objectives:

    • Enhance S&T capacity building.
    • Promote research, innovation, and technology development.
    • Increase participation in STI, particularly among women, aiming for gender parity.

    Alignment with National Goals:

    • Vision: Supports Viksit Bharat 2047 and aligns with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) standards and national priorities.

    Background:

    • Previous Schemes: Consolidates three former DST schemes: S&T Institutional and Human Capacity Building, Research and Development, and Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment.

    Department of science and technology:

    • Central Government of India executive: Abhay Karandikar, Secretary
    • Formed: May 3, 1971
    • Headquarters: New Delhi
    Spices Board Launches SPICED Scheme to Boost Spice Exports and Productivity
    Spices Board Launches SPICED Scheme to Boost Spice Exports and Productivity

    The Spices Board of India has launched the SPICED scheme, which stands for ‘Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development.’

    Implementation Period: Throughout the remainder of the 15th Finance Commission cycle.

    Objectives and Focus:

    • Export Enhancement: Improve the export of spices and value-added products.
    • Quality Upgradation: Upgrade post-harvest quality to meet international standards.
    • Cardamom Productivity: Focus on increasing cardamom yields and maintaining high product quality.

    Key Programs:

    • Cardamom Replanting: Initiatives to replant cardamom and boost productivity.
    • Quality Production Programs: Enhance production quality for both small and large cardamom varieties to meet export standards.

    Spice boards:

    • Headquarters: Kochi, Kerala, India
    • Chairman: Amardeep Singh Bhatia, IAS
    • Founded: 1987
    Launch of Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) Project in Varanasi
    Launch of Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) Project in Varanasi

    The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Indian Institute of Technology – Banaras Hindu University (IIT-BHU) Varanasi and the Government of Denmark have launched a Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) Project in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (UP).

    This initiative is a part of the Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark, which aims to rejuvenate small rivers through innovative and sustainable approaches.

    About Denmark:

    • Prime Minister: Mette Frederiksen
    • Capital: Copenhagen
    • Currency: Danish krone (DKK)

    About the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

    • Director-General: Rajeev Kumar Mital
    • Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
    • Launched: 2014
    Launch of Bharat Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) Policy Advisory
    Launch of Bharat Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) Policy Advisory

    On August 2024, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India (GoI), launched the “Bharat Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) Policy Advisory” document at the Vigyan Bhawan Annexe in New Delhi, Delhi.

    Objective:

    • Goal: Achieve 100% Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) sales penetration by 2050, contributing to India’s Net Zero 2070 target.

    About the Bharat ZET Policy Advisory:

    1. Guidance and Development:
      • Policy Advisory Panel (PAP):
        • Chair: Dr. Preeti Banzal, Adviser, Office of PSA
        • Vice-Chair: Prof. Karthick Athmanathan, PSA Fellow
      • Drafting: Centre of Excellence for Zero Emission Trucking (CoEZET), IIT Madras, Chennai
      • Project Management Unit: Established at CoEZET for drafting the advisory under PAP guidance.
    2. Key Components:
      • Document Content: 30 policy interventions to accelerate ZET adoption.
      • Categorization:
        • Incentives
        • Regulations
        • Infrastructure
        • Business and Financing
        • Stakeholder-Centric Initiatives
      • Details Included: Responsible agencies, key stakeholders, sectoral impact, and policy formulation methodology.

    Significance:

    • The Bharat ZET Policy Advisory aims to create a structured and comprehensive framework to promote zero emission trucking, aligning with India’s long-term environmental and sustainability goals.

    Defence news

    Indian Army Transfers Cutting-Edge Technologies Xploder and Agniastra for Mass Production
    Indian Army Transfers Cutting-Edge Technologies Xploder and Agniastra for Mass Production

    The Indian Army has transferred the technology for the mass production of 2 indigenously developed cutting-edge technologies, namely the Xploder and Agniastra, developed by the innovator officers of the Army Design Bureau (ADB), to private Indian firms.

    The Transfer of Technology (ToT) ceremony was presided over by Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Chief Of Army Staff (VCOAS).

    Technologies Transferred:

    1. Xploder:
      • Type: Advanced Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV)
      • Capabilities:
        • All-Terrain: Designed for diverse operational environments.
        • Reconnaissance: Conducts unmanned reconnaissance missions.
        • Explosive Payloads: Can deliver explosives with precision.
        • IED Disposal: Safely disposes of remote Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
        • Self-Destruct Mode: Effective for hideout clearance.
        • Disaster Relief: Usable in disaster response operations.
    2. Agniastra:
      • Details: Specific features and functions of the Agniastra are not provided in the current summary. Additional information on the Agniastra is needed to detail its capabilities and roles.

    Key Points:

    • Technology Transfer: The technologies are being transferred to private Indian firms for mass production.
    • Objective: To enhance indigenous defense capabilities and innovation in the Indian military sector.

    About the Indian Army:

    • Chief of the Army Staff (COAS): General Upendra Dwivedi
    • Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
    • 2024 Theme: Year of Technology Absorption

    Economy news

    Goldman Sachs Lowers India’s GDP Forecast for 2024 and 2025
    Goldman Sachs Lowers India's GDP Forecast for 2024 and 2025

    Goldman Sachs Group Inc. has revised its GDP growth forecasts for India, lowering the projections by 20 basis points (bps) for both Calendar Year 2024 (CY24) and Calendar Year 2025 (CY25).

    • Revised GDP Growth Estimates:
      • CY24: 6.7%
      • CY25: 6.4%

    Reasons for Downgrade:

    1. Reduction in Government Expenditure:
    2. A significant 35% Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) cut in central government spending during the April-June quarter.
    3. Fiscal Deficit Reduction:
    4. The union budget’s commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit below 4.5% of GDP is expected to impact growth negatively in CY25.
    5. Slower Real Consumption Growth:
    6. Sluggish growth in household credit, influenced by the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) stricter rules on unsecured lending by banks, is likely to dampen real consumption expansion.

    About Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

    • Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO): David M. Solomon
    • Headquarters: New York City, USA
    • Founded: 1869

    Banking news

    Tata AIA Life Launches ‘Sampoorna Raksha Promise’
    Tata AIA Life Launches ‘Sampoorna Raksha Promise’

    Tata AIA Life Insurance has recently unveiled its latest offering in the term insurance segment – Sampoorna Raksha Promise. This innovative product is designed to provide enhanced financial security to policyholders and their families, addressing various aspects of life insurance needs.

    Key Features:

    • Instant Payout: ₹3 lakh immediate payout upon death claim to cover urgent expenses.
    • Premium Deferral: Option to postpone premium payments for up to 12 months once every five years.
    • Terminal Illness Benefit:
      • 50% of base sum assured paid out immediately.
      • Future premiums waived, with policy benefits continuing.

    Plan Options:

    1. Life Promise: Coverage up to age 100, with a sum assured payable upon death.
    2. Life Promise Plus:
      • Same coverage as Life Promise.
      • Additional benefit: 100% refund of total premiums paid if the policyholder survives to maturity (excludes modal premiums and discounts).

    Additional Benefits:

    • Life Stage Facility: Increase coverage during major life events (e.g., marriage, childbirth, home loan) without additional underwriting.
    • Accelerated Instant Death Benefit: ₹3 lakh payout within one working day after a three-year waiting period.
    • Flexi Pay Benefit: Allows premium deferral for up to 12 months without extra cost, maintaining full coverage.

    Discounts:

    • Digital Discount: 10% off the first year’s premium for online purchases.
    • Salaried Discount: 5% off for salaried individuals.
    • Milestone Discount: 2% off for life milestones (e.g., marriage, childbirth, first job, home loan).
    • Women’s Discount: 15% lower premium for women compared to men.

    Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited (TALIC)

    • Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Venkatachalam H
    • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
    • Established: April 1, 2001

    State news

    Mithun Recorded for the First Time in Assam
    Mithun Recorded for the First Time in Assam

    In a groundbreaking development, the state of Assam has officially recorded the presence of mithun (Bos frontalis) for the first time. This discovery comes generations after the semi-wild, gaur-like animal began to be reared by tribal communities in the state’s hill district of Dima Hasao.

    Key Points:

    • Historic Discovery: Assam officially documents the presence of mithun (Bos frontalis) for the first time.
    • Previous Oversight: Mithuns were previously recorded under “others” in livestock censuses, leading to a lack of official knowledge.
    • Cultural Significance:
      • Mithun is the state animal of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.
      • Found in Mizoram and Manipur.
      • Important for meat and cultural traditions in Northeast India.

    Discovery Expedition:

    • Date: August 21
    • Teams Involved: Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department officials, and scientists from ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun.
    • Visited Villages: Laisong, Langting, and Thaijuwari in Dima Hasao, inhabited by Zeme Nagas, 70-80 km from Haflong.

    Findings:

    • Observations: 35-40 mithuns spotted.
    • Local Reports: Formerly larger mithun population in the area, now diminished.

    Assam:

    • Capital: Dispur
    • Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
    • Formation: 26 January 1950

    Sports news

    India Shines at Asian Surfing Championships 2024: A Milestone for Indian Surfing
    India Shines at Asian Surfing Championships 2024: A Milestone for Indian Surfing

    In a significant achievement for Indian surfing, the national team secured a silver medal at the prestigious Maruhaba Cup, a team event at the Asian Surfing Championships 2024. The competition, held in Thulusdhoo, Maldives, concluded on Sunday, marking a new chapter in India’s surfing history.

    Achievement:

    • Event: Maruhaba Cup, part of the Asian Surfing Championships 2024.
    • Location: Thulusdhoo, Maldives.
    • Result: India won the silver medal in the team event.

    Indian Team:

    • Members: Kamali P, Ajeesh Ali, Srikanth D, Sanjay Selvamani.
    • Performance: Showcased exceptional skill and teamwork, leading to their podium finish.

    Final Standings:

    1. Japan: Gold Medal (Score: 58.40)
    2. India: Silver Medal (Score: 24.13)
    3. Taipei: Bronze Medal (Score: 23.93)
    4. China: Fourth Place (Score: 22.10)

    Road to the Final:

    • Semi-Final Performance: India won Heat 2 with a score of 32.16.
      • Competitors:
        • Taipei: Second Place (Score: 29.70)
        • Republic of Korea: Third Place (Score: 27.74)

    Significance:

    • India’s silver medal represents a major milestone in its surfing history, highlighting the country’s growing prowess in the sport.

    Lausanne Diamond League 2024 Highlights

    Lausanne Diamond League 2024 Highlights

    Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra finished 2nd at the Lausanne Diamond League 2024 (also known as Athletissima) with his season’s best throw of 89.49 meter.

    • Venue: Pontaise Olympic Stadium, Lausanne, Switzerland
    • Organized by: World Athletics

    Javelin Throw Results:

    • 1st Place: Anderson Peters (Grenada) – 90.61 meters
    • 2nd Place: Neeraj Chopra (India) – 89.49 meters (Season’s Best)
    • 3rd Place: Julian Weber (Germany) – 87.08 meters

    About the Diamond League:

    1. Organizer: World Athletics (formerly IAAF)
    2. Inaugural Season: 2010
    3. 2024 Season: 15th edition
    4. Lausanne Diamond League 2024: 11th event of the 2024 season
    Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2024
    Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2024

    McLaren’s Lando Norris, a British racing driver, won the title at the Formula 1 (F1) Heineken Dutch Grand Prix (GP) 2024 held at the Circuit Zandvoort, in Zandvoort, the Netherlands. This marks Norris’s 2nd title of his F1 career.

    Event Details:

    • Race: Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2024
    • Date: August 25, 2024
    • Location: Circuit Zandvoort, Zandvoort, Netherlands

    Results:

    • Winner: Lando Norris (McLaren) – This victory marks his 2nd career F1 title.
    • 2nd Place: Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – Dutch-Belgian driver.
    • 3rd Place: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – From Monaco.

    Key Points:

    • Round: This was the 15th round of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship.
    • Next Race: The 16th round will be the F1 Pirelli Gran Premio D’Italia 2024, held at Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Milan, Italy, from August 30 to September 1, 2024.

    Important days

    World Water Week 2024 Overview
    World Water Week 2024 Overview

    World Water Week (WWW), the leading conference on global water issues, is annually observed across the globe during the last week of August to address critical water-related challenges, including access to clean water, sanitation, water management, and sustainability.

    Event Details:

    • Dates: August 25-29, 2024
    • Organized by: Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI)
    • Location: Stockholm, Sweden
    • Theme: “Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future”

    Background:

    • Inception: The first Stockholm Water Symposium was held in 1991 to celebrate clean waters, leading to the establishment of World Water Week.
    • Renaming: In 2001, the Stockholm Water Symposium was officially renamed World Water Week.

    Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI):

    • Executive Director (Interim): Christel Wiman
    • Headquarters: Stockholm, Sweden
    • Established: 1991

    Previous Event: World Water Week 2023: August 20-24, 2023

  • SET-1 Banking Quiz

    SET-1 Banking Quiz

    What value should come in place of question mark?

    1.[√(26 + 62)]? = 100

    a) 3

    b) 2

    c) 1

    d) 5

    e) 4

                                                <a tabindex="0">ANSWER AND EXPLANATION</a>
                Answer: <b>b)2</b>

    [√(64+36)]^? = 100
    [√100]^? = 100
    [10]^? = 100
    [10]^? = [10]^2
    ? = 2

    2 . 35/28×108/144×32=?-36

        <p style="line-height: 150%;">a) 86</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">b) 76</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">c) 46</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">d) 56</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">e) 66</p>     
                                            <a tabindex="0">ANSWER AND EXPLANATION</a>
                Answer: <b>e)66</b>

    (5/4) x (3/4) x 32 = ? – 36

    30 = ? – 36

    ? = 66

    3 .14% of 300 – 18% of 250 = ?

        <p style="line-height: 150%;">a) - 4</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">b) 9</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">c) 2</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">d) - 3</p><p style="line-height: 150%;">e) 10</p>     
                                            <a tabindex="0">ANSWER AND EXPLANATION</a>
                Answer: <b>d)-3</b>

    14% of 300 – 18% of 250 = ?

    42 – 45 = ?

    ? = – 3
    4.83 – 73+27 = ?2
    a) 10

    b) 14

    c) 8

    d) 12

    e) 17

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: b)14

    512- 343+27 = ?^2

    196= ?^2

    ? = 14

    5. [45 X 5 + 54] ÷ 93 = ?

        a) 9

    b) 11

    c) 8

    d) 6

    e) 3

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: e)3

    [45 X 5 + 54] ÷ 93 = ?

    [225 + 54] ÷ 93 = ?

    279 ÷ 93 = ?

    ? = 3

    Find the missing number of the given series.

            <h2>6. 71, 95, 121, 149, 179, ?</h2>        
    a) 198

    b) 211

    c) 206

    d) 213

    e) 219

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: b)211

    The successive differences are 24, 26, 28, 30, 32

    So the next term is 179+32 = 211

    7. 27, 27, 54, 162, 648, ?

        a) 3240

    b) 1939

    c) 1909

    d) 627

    e) 2427

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: a)3240

    The given series is,

    27 x 1 = 27

    27 x 2 = 54

    54 x 3 = 162

    162 x 4 = 648

    648 x 5 = 3240

    8. 13, 15, 20, 31, 48, ?

        a) 75

    b) 65

    c) 58

    d) 64

    e) 71

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: e)71

    The given series is,

    13 + 2 = 15

    15 + 5 = 20

    20 + 11 = 31

    31 + 17 = 48

    48 + 23 = 71

    9. 64, 32, 32, ?, 96, 240

        a) 48

    b) 80

    c) 50

    d) 62

    e) 36

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: a)48

    The given series is,

    64 x 0.5 = 32

    32 x 1.0 = 32

    32 x 1.5 = 48

    48 x 2.0 = 96

    96 x 2.5 = 240

    10. 63, 66, 71, 78, 89, ?

        a) 84

    b) 102

    c) 111

    d) 110

    e) 112

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION

    Answer: b)102

    The given series is,

    63 + 3 = 66

    66 + 5 = 71

    71 + 7 = 78

    78 + 11 = 89

    89 + 13 = 102

  • Editorial 27 August 2024

    Editorial 27 August 2024

    No more delays: On holding the Census
    Caste enumeration should not hold the Census from being undertaken quickly

    In what can only be a case of muddying the waters, the Union government is reportedly mulling the expansion of data collection in the long-delayed Census to include caste enumeration. That caste may be one of the variables in the Census could be an outcome of the strident demand for a caste census by several political parties. But considering the incomplete and poorly constructed nature of the Socio-Economic and Caste Census of 2011, which resulted in data that were unwieldy, inaccurate, and hence unusable, the government must not hurry into utilising the office of the Registrar General and other agencies to tabulate caste. There must first be a definite time frame to conduct the Census on a war footing. If the delay is deliberate, in order to allow for delimitation to be conducted first in 2026, this will be harmful not just to public policy but also to relations with States. As of June 2024, out of 233 countries, India was one of 44 not to have conducted the Census this decade. The ostensible reason provided by the Union Home Ministry was delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but 143 other countries conducted the Census after March 2020, which marked the onset of the pandemic. India shares this dubious distinction of not having a Census with countries affected by conflict, economic crises or turmoil such as Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Sri Lanka and in sub-Saharan Africa.

    There remains little excuse to continually delay the decennial Census, an exercise that has been conducted without fail from 1881 to 2011. Yet, the deadline to freeze administrative boundaries of districts, tehsils, towns and municipal bodies — a prerequisite before the conduct of the Census — lapsed on June 30 this year. This deadline has been extended 10 times since 2019. Several public schemes such as the National Food Security Act, the National Social Assistance Programme and the delimitation of constituencies are dependent upon the Census being conducted. Besides, statistical surveys that go into setting policy such as those related to household and social consumption, the National Family Health Survey, the Periodic Labour Force Survey, and the Sample Registration System, among others, use the Census to set their sampling frames. With the 2011 Census data getting increasingly out-dated and phenomena such as migration across and within States, the urbanisation of Indian societies, and the suburbanisation of cities becoming increasingly prominent in recent years, the lack of a Census is telling. The reliance on a bevy of sample surveys to fill in the gap is only resulting in debates over methodology and conclusions based on cherry-picking according to one’s political choice. Clearly, the Union government must stop being derelict in its duties and should proceed with the Census quickly.

    Word    Meaning  Synonyms       Antonyms
    Mulling“Mulling” refers to the process of thinking deeply or carefully about something, often to make a decision or understand it better.Considering
    Meditating
    Reflecting
    Pondering    		Ignoring
    Rushing
    Overlooking 
    Disregarding
    Enumeration“Enumeration” refers to the action of listing or mentioning items one by one. It involves counting or detailing elements in a systematic manner.Cataloging
    Itemization
    Counting
    Listing      		Omission
    Summarization
    Abstracting
    Neglect  
    Delimitation“Delimitation” refers to the process of defining or marking the boundaries or limits of something.Boundaries
    Demarcation
    Specification
    Limitations    		Generalization
    Expansion
    Indefiniteness
    Vagueness
    OstensibleSeeming or stated to be real or true, but not necessarily real or true.Apparent
    Seeming
    Professed
    Surface    		Actual
    Genuine
    True
    Substantive
    PrerequisiteThe term “prerequisite” refers to something that is required as a prior condition for something else to happen or be done.Requirement
    Condition
    Necessity
    Essential    		Optional
    Nonessential
    Unnecessary
    Superfluous
    Derelict The term “derelict” refers abandoned especially by the owner or occupantNeglected
    Abandoned
    Forsaken
    Rundown    		Maintained
    Pristine
    Well-kept
    Tidy
  • 24 August 2024 Current Affairs

    24 August 2024 Current Affairs

    National News

    PM Modi Presents BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine
    PM Modi Presents BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine

    Narendra Modi’s trip marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since its independence in 1991.

    • Humanitarian Support: Delivery of four BHISHM Cubes, part of Project Aarogya Maitri, providing essential medical supplies and equipment for rapid deployment.
    • BHISHM Cubes Structure: Each cube includes mini cubes for various medical needs, with mother cubes for initial care and surgical support.
    • Technology Integration: Uses RFID technology and a multi-language app for real-time inventory updates and instructional support.
    • Cultural Diplomacy: Signed agreements in agriculture, medical regulation, and cultural cooperation; honored conflict victims with a memorial gesture.

    Ukraine

    • Capital & Largest City: Kyiv
    • President: Volodymyr Zelenskyy
    • Official Language: Ukrainian
    • Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
    Odisha CM Majhi Launches Subhadra Scheme
    Odisha CM Majhi Launches Subhadra Scheme

    The Subhadra scheme, introduced by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, will provide ₹50,000 to one crore women over the next five years, with a total budget of ₹55,825 crore.

    • Disbursement: Funds will be distributed in annual installments of ₹10,000, split into two payments of ₹5,000 each, on Rakhi Purnima and International Women’s Day.
    • Implementation Period: The scheme will run from the financial year 2024-25 to 2028-29.
    • Payment Method: Transfers will be made directly to Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts using the Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (APBS). Beneficiaries will also receive a Subhadra debit card.
    • Incentives: ₹500 will be awarded to the top 100 beneficiaries with the highest digital transactions in each gram panchayat and urban local body.
    • Opposition Criticism: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) criticizes the scheme for not fulfilling the BJP’s promise to deliver ₹50,000 within two years as per their election manifesto.
    • Eligibility: Excludes women from economically privileged backgrounds, government employees, and income tax payees to ensure targeted assistance.

    Odisha:

    • Capital: Bhubaneswar
    • Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
    • Governor: Raghubar Das
    • Official Language: Odia
    • Major Dance Forms: Odissi, Ghoomar
    GAIL and Petron Scientech Partner for Bio-Ethylene Plant in India
    GAIL and Petron Scientech Partner for Bio-Ethylene Plant in India

    GAIL (India) Limited and Petron Scientech Inc. have signed an MoU to develop a 500 KTA bio-ethylene plant in India through a 50:50 joint venture.

    • Project Scope: The plant will use bio-ethanol, focusing on sustainability and advancing the bio-economy.
    • Feasibility Studies: Joint studies will evaluate the technical and financial viability before investment decisions.
    • Leadership Statement: Rajeev Kumar Singhal from GAIL highlights the initiative’s role in technological innovation and environmental sustainability.
    • Company Backgrounds: Petron specializes in biorefinery projects, while GAIL is a leading natural gas and petrochemicals enterprise in India.
    • Stock Update: GAIL’s share price opened at ₹237.15 and reached ₹234.55 on the NSE as of August 22, 2024.

    GAIL:

    • Full Name: GAIL (Gas Authority Of India Ltd.)
    • Type: Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise
    • Industry: Natural gas transmission and distribution
    • Headquarters: New Delhi
    • Founded: 1984
    • Formerly: Gas Authority of India Limited (1984–2002)
    • Key Person: Sandeep Kumar Gupta (Chairman & MD)
    Launch of BoCW MIS Portal by Ministry of Labour & Employment
    Launch of BoCW MIS Portal by Ministry of Labour & Employment

    On August, 2024, the Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoL&E) launched the ‘Building and Other Construction Workers (BoCW) Management Information System (MIS) Portal.’

    • Purpose: The portal aims to help states and Union Territories (UTs) finalize draft rules under the four Labour Codes and enhance welfare schemes for BoCW.
    • Launch: Announced during the 15th BOCW Monitoring Committee meeting, chaired by Sumita Dawra, Secretary of MoL&E.
    • Portal Features:
      • Centralized Data Management: Compiles and analyzes data from BoCW Welfare Boards across states.
      • Registration and Updates: States and UTs must register on the portal and update details related to fund utilization, worker registration, and various social security benefits.

    Key Statistics:

    • Registered Workers: Approximately 5.7 crore workers were registered with BoCW Welfare Boards as of June 30, 2024.
    • Future Plans: MoL&E is working to extend central government scheme benefits to BoCW workers using the BoCW cess fund.

    Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoL&E)

    • Union Minister: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya (Constituency: Porbandar, Gujarat)
    • Minister of State (MOS): Shobha Karandlaje (Constituency: Bangalore North, Karnataka)

    Postal Dept launches Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana to Encourage Philately
    Postal Dept launches Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana to Encourage Philately

    The Department of Post under the Union Ministry of Communication has launched the Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana to promote research and scholarship in philately among students across India. Announced by the Postmaster General of North Gujarat Region, Ahmedabad, Krishna Kumar Yadav, during the closing ceremony of the ‘The Ideal and Great Stamps’ Paintings exhibition, the scheme aims to foster the hobby of stamp collection among children.

    • Eligibility: Open to students in classes VI, VII, VIII, and IX from recognized schools who are members of a philately club or hold a Philately Deposit Account.
    • Scholarships: 920 scholarships available nationwide, with each postal circle offering up to 40 scholarships (10 per eligible class).
    • Amount: ₹6000 per year, disbursed quarterly.
    • Selection: Scholarships are awarded annually, with the opportunity to reapply in subsequent years.
    • Mentorship: Philately Mentors will guide scholarship recipients and help establish school-level philately clubs.

    Bank and report news

    Axis Bank Launches ‘Neo for Merchants’ Mobile App
    Axis Bank Launches 'Neo for Merchants' Mobile App

    On August, 2024, Axis Bank Limited launches ‘Neo for Merchants’, a transformative mobile app which will act as a one stop solution for the merchant community, in partnership with VISA and Mintoak.

    • Purpose: ‘Neo for Merchants’ is a comprehensive mobile app designed to enhance the omni-channel payment experience and simplify operations for the merchant community.
    • Key Features:
    • Payment Management: Allows merchants to manage payments, view transaction reports, and raise service requests directly through the app, eliminating the need for a relationship manager.
    • Payment Acceptance: Supports payments via Cards, SMS Pay, and Unified Payments Interface (UPI), improving convenience for both customers and merchants.
    • Efficiency: Streamlines payment processes and service requests, saving time and increasing productivity.
    • Data Insights: Provides accessible transaction and settlement reports for valuable data insights.
    • Impact: The app aims to support financial inclusion and foster growth for Indian SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises).

    Ranks And Reports News

    Mumbai Ranks 2nd, New Delhi 3rd In Global Property Price Index
    Mumbai Ranks 2nd, New Delhi 3rd In Global Property Price Index

    Manila ranked first with a 26 per cent annual rise during the quarter. Mumbai and Delhi are at the second and third positions, respectively, among 44 cities globally in annual price rise of prime residential properties during the June quarter, Knight Frank said in a report. The annual price growth across the 44 cities globally slowed to 2.6 per cent in the second quarter of the 2024 calendar year, from 4.1 per cent in the preceding quarter, real estate consultant Knight Frank report said.

    Indian Cities’ Performance:

    • Mumbai: Ranked 2nd globally with a 13% annual price rise, up from 6th place a year ago.
    • New Delhi: Secured 3rd place with a 10.6% increase, a significant leap from 26th place last year.
    • Bengaluru: Maintained its 15th position with a 3.7% rise in prices.

    Overall Global Trend: Annual price growth across 44 cities slowed to 2.6% in Q2 2024, down from 4.1% in the previous quarter.

    Dubai: Experienced a slight moderation with a 0.3% annual decline, following a 124% increase since 2020.

    AMUL Tops Brand Finance’s Food & Drink 2024 Report
    AMUL Tops Brand Finance's Food & Drink 2024 Report

    Emerged as the world’s strongest food and dairy brand with an AAA+ rating for the 4th consecutive year.

    • Brand Value: Increased by 11% to USD 3.3 billion.
    • Brand Strength Index (BSI): Scored 91 out of 100.
    • Global Ranking: Improved from 29th (2023) to 22nd (2024) among the world’s most valuable and strongest food brands.
    • Top Brands:
      • Most Valuable: Nestlé (USD 20.8 billion, down 7% from 2023)
      • 2nd: Lay’s (USA)
      • 3rd: Yili (China)

    About Brand Finance

    • Chairman and CEO: David Haigh
    • Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
    • Established: 1996

    Sports news

    Shikhar Dhawan Announces Retirement from International Cricket
    Shikhar Dhawan Announces Retirement from International Cricket

    Shikhar Dhawan, at 38, has retired from international cricket but plans to continue in league cricket, particularly the IPL.

    • Career Highlights:
    • International Appearances: 269 matches for India
    • Runs Scored: 10,867 runs
    • Centuries: 24
    • Half-Centuries: 44
    • Last ODI: December 2022 against Bangladesh
    • Early Achievements:
    • 2004 Under-19 World Cup: Scored three centuries and accumulated 505 runs, showcasing early promise.

    Science And Tech News

    SpaceX’s “Fram2” Mission: First Human Spaceflight Over Earth’s Polar Regions
    SpaceX's "Fram2" Mission: First Human Spaceflight Over Earth's Polar Regions

    SpaceX Plans 1st Human Spaceflight Mission “Fram2” Over Earth’s Polar Regions Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX) is set to launch “Fram2”, the 1st human spaceflight mission to explore Earth from a polar orbit and fly over the Earth’s polar regions for the 1st time.

    • Significance: First human spaceflight mission to explore Earth from a polar orbit and fly over the Earth’s polar regions.
    • Launch Vehicle: Falcon 9 rocket
    • Launch Site: Florida’s Space Coast, USA
    • Spacecraft: Dragon spacecraft
    • Mission Duration: 3 to 5 days
    • Mission Name Origin: Named after the Norwegian polar research ship Fram, known for its historic Arctic and Antarctic explorations.
    • Crew:
      • Commander: Chun Wang (Malta)
      • Vehicle Commander: Jannicke Mikkelsen (Norway)
      • Vehicle Pilot: Eric Philips (Australia)
      • Mission Specialist: Rabea Rogge (Germany)
    • Objectives:
      • Study Earth’s polar regions from Dragon’s cupola at an altitude of 425-450 km.
      • Research the effects of spaceflight on the human body.
      • Capture the first human X-ray images in space.

    Agreement news

    India-Japan Green Ammonia Export Agreement Signed

    India-Japan Green Ammonia Export Agreement Signed

    Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) chaired the signing ceremony of the first-ever Heads of Terms (HoT) agreement for exporting Green Ammonia from India to Japan.

    Event: Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi chaired the signing ceremony of the first Heads of Terms (HoT) agreement for exporting Green Ammonia from India to Japan.

    Parties Involved:

    • India: Singapore-based Sembcorp Green Hydrogen Pte. Ltd.
    • Japan: Sojitz Corporation, Kyushu Electric Power Company, and NYK Line.
    • Singapore: Sembcorp Industries Limited, Asia’s leading energy provider.

    Significance: This agreement marks the first collaboration between India, Singapore, and Japan, emphasizing India’s role in the global green energy sector.

    Key Attendees:

    • Simon Wong: High Commissioner of Singapore to India
    • Yuta Hikichi: First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in India
    • Ajay Yadav: Joint Secretary, MNRE
    • Vipul Tuli: Chairman – South Asia and CEO, Hydrogen Business, Sembcorp Industries

    Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

    • Union Minister: Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi (Constituency: Dharwad, Karnataka)
    • Minister of State (MOS): Shripad Yesso Naik (Constituency: North Goa, Goa)


    Book And Author

    Soumya Swaminathan Releases Autobiography of Activist Kalpana Sankar

    Soumya Swaminathan Releases Autobiography of Activist Kalpana Sankar

    In a significant event celebrating women’s empowerment and social entrepreneurship, Dr. Kalpana Sankar’s autobiography, “The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women”, was unveiled at Cathedral Road. The book launch brought together notable figures from various fields, highlighting the impact of grassroots initiatives on women’s economic empowerment and community development.

    • Book: “The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women” by Dr. Kalpana Sankar.
    • Opening: The event featured a short film highlighting the work of Hand in Hand India, co-founded by Dr. Kalpana Sankar, focusing on women’s empowerment and community development.
    • Key Figures:
      • Dr. Soumya Swaminathan: Chairperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation and former WHO chief scientist, released the book.
      • Swaady Martin: Chairperson and CEO of Yswara, received the first copy of the autobiography.
      • Sridhar Vembu: Founder and CEO of Zoho Corporation, participated virtually.
      • Anu Hasan: Actor, engaged in a fireside chat with Dr. Kalpana Sankar.

  • SET-3 TNPSC QUIZ

    SET-3 TNPSC QUIZ

    1. புரட்சிக்கவி என்று அழைக்கப்படுபவர் யார்? 

        <ol><li>A) பாரதியார்</li><li>B) பாரதிதாசன்</li><li>C) நாமக்கல் கவிஞர்</li><li>D) கண்ணதாசன்</li></ol>        
                                            <a tabindex="0">ANSWER AND EXPLANATION</a>
                Answer:

    B) பாரதிதாசன்

    2. “தமிழே உயிரே வணக்கம்
    தாய்பிள்ளை உறவம்மா உனக்கும் எனக்கும்” – என்ற வரிகள் யாருடையது?

    1. A) பாரதியார்
    2. B) பாரதிதாசன்
    3. C) காசி ஆனந்தன்
    4. D) து.அரங்கன்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer: 

    C) காசி ஆனந்தன்

    3. நூராசிரியம் நூலின் ஆசிரியர் யார்?

    1. A) தேவநேயப்பாவாணர்
    2. B) மாணிக்கம்
    3. C) மொழிஞாயிறு
    4. D) பாரதிதாசன்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer: 

    B) மாணிக்கம்

    4. யாமறிந்த மொழிகளிலே தமிழ்மொழி போல் இனிதாவது எங்கும் காணோம்
    என்று தமிழ் மொழியின் இனிமையை வியந்து பாடியவர் யார்?

    1. A) பாரதிதாசன்
    2. B) பாரதியார்
    3. C) கம்பர்
    4. D) வாணிதாசன்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer: 

    B) பாரதியார்

    5. என்று பிறந்தவள் என்று உணராத இயல்பினளாம் எங்கள் தாய்!
    என்று தமிழ் மொழியின் இனிமையை வியந்து பாடியவர் யார்?

    1. A) பாரதிதாசன்
    2. B) பாரதியார்
    3. C) கம்பர்
    4. D) வாணிதாசன்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer: 

    B) பாரதியார்

    6. ‘தமிழ்’ என்ற சொல் முதலில் ஆளப்படும் இலக்கியம்?

    1. A) தொல்காப்பியம்
    2. B) சிலப்பதிகாரம்
    3. C) அப்பர் தேவாரம்
    4. D) நாலடியார்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer:

    A) தொல்காப்பியம்

    7. ‘தமிழன்’ என்ற சொல் முதலில் ஆளப்படும் இலக்கியம்?

    1. A) தொல்காப்பியம்
    2. B) சிலப்பதிகாரம்
    3. C) அப்பர் தேவாரம்
    4. D) நாலடியார்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer:

    C) அப்பர் தேவாரம்

    8. ‘தமிழ்நாடு’ என்ற சொல் முதலில் ஆளப்படும் இலக்கியம்?

    1. A) தொல்காப்பியம்
    2. B) சிலப்பதிகாரம்
    3. C) அப்பர் தேவாரம்
    4. D) நாலடியார்

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer:

    B) சிலப்பதிகாரம்

    9. பொருத்துக.
    a. இயல்தமிழ் – 1.எண்ணத்தை வெளிப்படுத்துவது
    b. இசைத்தமிழ் – 2.உள்ளத்தை மகிழ்விக்கும்
    c. நாடகத் தமிழ் – 3.உணர்வில் கலந்து வாழ்வின் நிறை குறைகளைச் சுட்டிக்காட்டும்

    1. A) 123
    2. B) 321
    3. C) 132
    4. D) 213

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer:

    A) 123

    10. ‘உயிர்’ என்ற சொல் கீழ்க்கண்டவற்றுள் எந்த நூலில் இடம் பெற்றுள்ளது?
    1. தொல்காப்பியம்
    2. திருக்குறள்
    3. நாலடியார்
    4. திருமுருகாற்றுப்படை

    1. A) அனைத்தும் சரி
    2. B) 1&2 சரி
    3. C) 1,2&3 சரி
    4. D) 2&3 சரி

    ANSWER AND EXPLANATION
    Answer:

    B) 1&2 சரி

  • Embrace the Power of Quizzes

    Embrace the Power of Quizzes

    At Edusprint Academy, we understand the significance of integrating quizzes into your preparation routine. Our comprehensive quizzes for TNPSC, Banking, SSC, and Railway exams are designed to test your knowledge, enhance your skills, and boost your confidence. By regularly participating in these quizzes, you are taking a proactive step towards achieving your goals and excelling in your competitive exams.

    Incorporate quizzes into your study plan today and experience the difference they can make in your preparation. Challenge yourself, assess your progress, and stay motivated on your path to success. Remember, every quiz is a step closer to your goal of mastering the competitive exam landscape.

    Stay focused, keep quizzing, and embrace the journey towards achieving your dreams with Edusprint Academy.