Correct Answer :   Rs. 14,903 crore

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The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the launch of an extended version of the Digital India programme, aimed at further accelerating the country’s digital transformation journey. The extended programme encompasses a wide range of initiatives spanning technology, education, governance, and innovation with an additional outlay of Rs 14,903 crore.

1. DIGILOCKER EXTENSION
In a bid to streamline documentation and enhance digital record-keeping, an extension of the DigiLocker platform will be introduced, specifically tailored for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and other organisations. This move is anticipated to improve operational efficiency and facilitate seamless access to important documents.

2. FUTURESKILLS PRIME PROGRAMME
Acknowledging the rapidly evolving technological landscape, the FutureSkills Prime Programme is set to re-skill and up-skill around 6.25 lakh IT professionals. The initiative aims to equip them with the necessary expertise to excel in emerging technologies and contribute to the nation’s digital prowess.

3. ISEA PROGRAMME
Under the Information Security & Education Awareness Phase (ISEA) Programme, 2.65 lakh individuals will undergo comprehensive training in information security. This effort seeks to bolster the nation’s cybersecurity framework and create a more secure digital environment for all citizens.

4. UMANG APP EXPANDS SERVICES
The Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) app, which already offers over 1,700 services, is set to enhance its offerings with an additional 540 services. This expansion aims to simplify access to government services and information through a single, user-friendly platform.

5. NATIONAL SUPERCOMPUTING MISSION GROWS
To further advance scientific research and computational capabilities, the National Supercomputing Mission will see the addition of 9 new supercomputers. This expansion builds upon the existing 18 supercomputers already deployed across the country.

6. BHASHINI
The AI-enabled multi-language translation tool, Bhashini, currently available in 10 languages, will be extended to cover all 22 Schedule 8 languages. This move is expected to break language barriers and foster better communication across diverse linguistic communities.

7. MODERNISATION OF NATIONAL KNOWLEDGE NETWORK
The National Knowledge Network, which interconnects 1,787 educational institutions, will undergo modernisation to provide enhanced connectivity and collaboration opportunities for students and researchers.

8. SUPPORTING STARTUPS
Under the extended version of the Digital India programme, 1,200 startups in tier 2 and 3 cities will receive support, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship beyond metropolitan areas.

9. CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR AI APPLICATIONS
Three Centres of Excellence will be established, focusing on developing AI applications for health, agriculture, and sustainable living in urban areas. These centres are poised to drive technological advancements for societal benefit.

10. CYBERSECURITY AND CYBER AWARENESS INITIATIVES
A significant emphasis will be placed on cybersecurity and cyber awareness. Cyber awareness courses will be made available for 12 crore college students, while initiatives will be taken to boost CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team - India) and take this organisation to the next level. The programme will also introduce new cybersecurity tools and integrate more than 200 sites with the National Cyber Coordination Centre.

Correct Answer :   Pramod Sawant

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The government of Goa on Monday (14th August 2023) launched its flagship scheme "Gramin Mitra" to provide doorstep delivery of government services across the state and promote digital empowerment in rural areas.

* Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister "Pramod Sawant" said the scheme will bridge the digital divide and promote digital empowerment in the rural parts of the state.

* State Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communication Rohan Khaunte, Union Minister Shripad Naik, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade were present on the occasion.

* The launch of the "Gramin Mitra" initiative marks a significant step towards bridging the divide between rural and urban Goa, Sawant said.

* Programme Aim : To empower rural communities with access to information and opportunities that can transform their lives and drive socio-economic growth

* By bringing selected government services to people's doorsteps, the initiative saves their time and resources and ensures that no one is left behind in the digital age, the chief minister said.

* The Gramin Mitra scheme is poised to revolutionise the way public services are delivered in Goa, enabling rural communities to reap the benefits of technology and innovation..

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   Parminder Chopra

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Parminder Chopra, an industry veteran, has been formally appointed as the new chairman and managing director (CMD) of Power Finance Corporation (PFC) Limited. This appointment, as confirmed by PFC to the stock exchanges, makes her the first woman to lead the country's largest non-banking financial company (NBFC).

The Ministry of Power has approved Chopra's appointment "till the date of her superannuation (April 30, 2027) or until further orders, whichever is earlier", a regulatory filing stated.

Chopra was, since June 1, holding the additional charge of CMD, while also discharging her role as the director (finance), which she had assumed since July 2020.

About Parminder Chopra :

* The new PFC head has a cumulative experience of over 35 years, spanning across power and financial sectors. In her last stint as the company's director (finance), she "spearheaded the Finance Division, leading to highest Net Profit, highest Net worth and lowest NPA levels. its highest net Profit, highest Net worth and lowest NPA levels", the NBFC said.

* The robust financial performance, for which Chopra is credited, also allowed the public sector firm to attain the highest status of “Maharatna”.

* She had also played a key role in the successful implementation of Rs 1.12 trillion Liquidity Infusion Scheme (LIS) for the power distribution sector, PFC said. The scheme was rolled out as part of the Centre's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

* As the CMD, she will be "providing impetus to PFC’s crucial role of financing India's energy transition goals apart from funding power & infrastructure sectors", the exchange filing noted.

* Chopra had joined PFC in 2005, and was working as executive director (finance) before assuming the director (finance) charge in 2020. She was heading key finance functions including resource mobilisation (domestic & international markets), banking, treasury, asset liability management and stressed asset resolution.

* Her prior experience includes service in power sector majors like NHPC and Power Grid Corporation of India. In terms of educational background, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Delhi University and is a qualified Cost and Management Accountant..

Source : Money Control

Correct Answer :   Meghalaya

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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 40.5 million loan for integrated early childhood development and maternal mental health in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

The Meghalaya government is contributing USD 15.27 million to the project.

The project is expected to strengthen home-based childcare (children 0-1.5 years) and center-based childcare (1.5-6 years) through daycare (Anganwadi) centers in Meghalaya.

Project Aim :  To improve access to nurturing care, including a component of maternal mental health care and group-based parenting programs to enable the inclusion of fathers in caregiving.

ADB's assistance will also improve nutrient adequacy by adding eggs to the diet of pregnant and lactating women and children 0.5-6 years of age.

The first early years-including especially the first 1,000 days-are critical to a child's growth and development.

Providing ample nutrition and nurturing care early on and enabling both parents are essential to building a strong growth foundation for a child. At the heart of childcare are mothers, making it important to ensure they have the needed health services and support.

The ADB-supported project will upgrade 1,800 Anganwadi centers and construct around 600 new ones in hard-to-reach areas..

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   Rs 20000 Crore

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The government has cleared a Rs 20,000 crore deal to manufacture fleet support vessels (FSVs) which are urgently required by the Indian Navy.

* Vizag-based Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) will manufacture five of the 45,000-tonne warships, the largest ship of its class being built at the defence ministry-owned yard.

* The Indian FSV project was initially given a go-ahead in 2016 after the Indian Navy projected a requirement for ships that could carry fuel and other supplies for warships at sea.

* The ships are needed to support warships on long range patrol and can carry a variety of equipment, such as fuel, ammunition and food supplies. They will be able to support ships of all classes, including the two Indian aircraft carriers.

* The navy has a variety of new ships that are being planned, including next generation missile vessels and counter mine vessels. Three additional Scorpene class submarines are also expected to be ordered shortly.

* The order will come as a boost for HSL, which has been struggling with getting orders from the government. The yard has delivered a missile tracking vessel and has carried out refit and upgrades of Kilo class submarines...

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   17th August 2023

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* Chingam 1 is the first day of the new year of the traditional Malayalam calendar used in Kerala.

* In 2023, it's being celebrated on August 17.

* Chingam 1 is also known as Chingam Month or Chingam Masam and it's followed by the Onam festival.

* The Malayam Calendar is based on the solar calendar system and every year, the date of Chingam 1 varies.

* Chingam 1 marks the beginning of the harvest season in Kerala and is considered an auspicious day.

Correct Answer :   Gandhi Nagar

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The Ministry of Ayush and the World Health Organization (WHO), will organize a first-of-its-kind global summit on Traditional Medicine from the 17th August 2023 in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat.

Two days summit will take into account the vast experience and expertise of the country.

Union Minister of State for Ayush, Dr Munjpara Mahendrabhai Kalubhai said that Director-General of WHO, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will inaugurate the event in the presence of Minister of Health Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal.

The Ayush Ministry said that the summit will serve as a platform for experts and practitioners to delve into the latest scientific advancements and evidence-based knowledge in the sector, with the ultimate goal of ensuring health and well-being for all.

In 2022, WHO, with the support of the Government of India, established the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Indian Institute of Astrophysics

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Scientists in Bengaluru have stumbled upon an astronomical revelation that has sent ripples of excitement through the world of astrophysics.

This discovery has upended established notions about star formation processes, casting new light on how stars come into being. This groundbreaking finding emerged from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, and promises to reshape our understanding of the universe.

The Enigmatic Star - HE 1005-1439

At the heart of this scientific intrigue lies a celestial entity known as "HE 1005-1439," a star that defies conventional classification. This star stands out in the cosmos as a carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) star, a rare and intriguing type. It's more than just its classification that has scientists buzzing; it's the discovery that this star might have formed through an unexpected combination of two distinct neutron-capture processes: the slow (s-) and intermediate (i-) processes.

Decoding Neutron-Capture Processes

But what are these processes, and why are they causing such a stir among astronomers? The journey to comprehend these phenomena takes us into the realm of nuclear astrophysics. Beyond the element iron, the universe's elements are formed through reactions called neutron capture processes. The "slow" (s-) process is believed to occur within low-mass stars during a phase known as asymptotic giant branch (AGB), while the "rapid" (r-) process is thought to transpire during explosive events like Supernovae and Neutron Star mergers. In this intricate dance of cosmic forces, a new player emerges: the "intermediate" (i-) process, linked to low-metallicity low-mass AGB stars.

Implications for Galactic Evolution

This discovery's implications are far-reaching, extending beyond the immediate excitement of the scientific community. By unraveling the intricate balance of these processes, researchers gain vital insights into the elemental composition of stars. This understanding provides a unique lens through which to study the chemical evolution of galaxies, shedding light on the origins of elements that make up our universe.

As the world grapples with this paradigm-shifting discovery, the boundaries of human knowledge continue to expand. The emergence of the HE 1005-1439 star has reminded us once again that the universe holds uncharted territories waiting to be explored. With every new insight gained, we inch closer to unraveling the mysteries that have captivated humankind for generations..

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   Gujarat

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Union Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala has unveiled the 'A-HELP' (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme along with an Infertility Camp, 14th August 2023 in the State of Gujarat.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, is spearheading these initiatives as part of the Pashudhan Jagrati Abhiyaan under Inclusive Development. Ms Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary (CDD), Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Govt. of India and Dr. N. H. Kelawala, Vice Chancellor, Kamdhenu University were also present.

Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala highlighted the pivotal role played by livestock and women in the comprehensive development of the livestock sector, particularly in Gujarat.

'A-HELP' programme and the Infertility Camp can mark a significant stride towards empowering women, enhancing livestock productivity, and advancing the socio-economic landscape of the region.

'A-HELP' programme Aim : To empower women by engaging them as trained agents who contribute significantly to disease control, artificial insemination under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), animal tagging, and livestock insurance. Shri Rupala emphasized that this endeavour serves as an exemplary integration of women’s power, fostering socio-economic progress in line with the vision of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Ministry of Electronics and IT

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Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary Shri Alkesh Kumar Sharma launched the ‘Graphene-Aurora program’ at a function in Maker Village Kochi, Kerala 14th Aug 2023.

The program shall be implemented by Digital University Kerala with joint funding from Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India and Government of Kerala and Industry partners, with the total budget outlay of Rs 94.85 Crore, wherein, Carborundum Pvt Limited joined as one of the main industry partners. Along with the startup products developed, the technologies and products also developed at research and development centers like India Innovation Centre Graphene (IICG), setup at Makers village, Kochi shall be considered for commercialization.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Alkesh Kumar Sharma said that a section 8 company (not for profit) called ‘India Graphene Engineering and Innovation Centre (I-GEIC)’ shall be set up and the initial operations will start from the recently opened facility of Government of Kerala at Digital Science Park in Trivandrum. It shall fill the gap between R&D and commercialization by providing a complete facility to startup and industry.

The Secretary, MeitY mentioned that it shall nurture the deep/emerging Graphene technology & innovation ecosystem that can guide, develop, implement, and support SMEs and startups to commercialize developed graphene technologies for scale adoption.

He also mentioned that creation of a commercialization eco-system for graphene as an emerging technology would help India take a pole position in the world’s new material market.

Shri Alkesh Kumar Sharma also announced the progress and contributions of Maker Village, to the development of hardware startups in the country, and assured MeitY’s support for the creation of a complete ecosystem for Electronics Product Testing.

He also appreciated the outcomes of other MeitY funded Centre of Excellence on IIOT Sensors and India Innovation Centre for Graphene that complements the solutions from materials, sensors to system integration that electronic product development.

Dr Rathan Kelkar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics and IT, GoK; Shri. Suman Billa IAS, Principal Secretary Industries Department, GoK; Dr. Saji Gopinath, Vice Chancellor, Digital University Kerala; Smt Sunita Verma, Group Coordinator, MeitY; Prof Alex James, CI, Graphene Aurora program, and Shri Kamesh Gupta, Co-CI, Graphene Aurora; Dr. P S Jayan, Carborundum Private limited were also present on the occasion..

Source : PIB