Correct Answer :   Rs. 37.97 Crore

---

The National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) paid its highest-ever dividend of Rs. 37.97 crore to the Government of India for FY 2023-24, with revenue surging to Rs. 3,273 crore (18.16% growth) and Profit After Tax reaching Rs. 126.56 crore (14.55% growth).

The National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC), a Mini Ratna enterprise under the Ministry of MSME, achieved a milestone by paying its highest-ever dividend of Rs. 37.97 crore to the Government of India for the financial year 2023-24. Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Dr. Subhransu Sekhar Acharya, presented the dividend cheque to Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Union Minister, and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble MoS, Ministry of MSME, in the presence of senior ministry officials, marking a significant achievement in the corporation’s history.

NSIC reported a Revenue from Operations of Rs. 3,273 crore, up by 18.16%, and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 126.56 crore, reflecting a 14.55% increase compared to the previous year.

Financial Achievements and Growth :

Correct Answer :   ESA

---

ISRO on Thursday (05 Dec 2024) commenced a revised 8.5 hour countdown for the launch of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 mission.
 
* The Bengaluru-headquartered space agency had originally planned to launch European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 at 4.08 pm on Wednesday (04 Dec 2024) from the spaceport here. However, minutes before the lift-off, following the request from the European Space Agency, ISRO rescheduled the launch of PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 to December 5, 4.04 pm.
 
* It was rescheduled following an anomaly detected in the satellite propulsion system.
 
* In an update on Thursday, ISRO said, "PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 Mission. Countdown commenced. Lift-off time 16.04 pm IST, 5th December 2024. Stay tuned as PSLV-C59 prepares to deploy ESA's Proba-3 satellites into orbit."

* NewSpace India Ltd, the commercial arm of ISRO has bagged the order from the ESA.

Correct Answer :   4th edition

---

The 4th edition of the India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise, HARIMAU SHAKTI, commenced on December 2, 2024, at Bentong Camp, Pahang district, Malaysia.

This exercise, scheduled to run until December 15, 2024, is an annual event designed to enhance the military cooperation between the two nations.

The exercise will focus on improving the ability of both forces to undertake joint counterinsurgency operations in jungle terrain, aligned with the United Nations Chapter VII Mandate.

Participants :

* Indian Contingent: 78 personnel from the MAHAR Regiment Battalion.
* Malaysian Contingent: 123 personnel from The Royal Malaysian Regiment.
* Location: Bentong Camp, Pahang district, Malaysia.
* Duration: December 2 to December 15, 2024.

Objective :

* To improve joint military capabilities in conducting counterinsurgency operations in jungle terrain.
* To enhance defense cooperation between India and Malaysia, thereby fostering stronger bilateral relations.