Correct Answer :   Arjun Munda

---

In a significant cabinet reshuffle, President Draupadi Murmu has accepted the resignations of Narendra Singh Tomar, Prahlad Singh Patel, and Renuka Singh Saruta from the Union Council of Ministers with immediate effect.

Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Arjun Munda, has been appointed as the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in the Central Government, succeeding Narendra Singh Tomar.

The President also appointed Dr. Bharati Praveen Pawar as the Minister of State in the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Meanwhile, Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State, has been given an additional charge as Minister of State in the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.

Rajeev Chandrashekhar, another Minister of State, now holds an additional charge as Minister of State in the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Bharti Praveen Pawar, Minister of State, has been assigned an additional charge in the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

In a move aimed at ensuring a smooth transition, President Draupadi Murmu handed over the additional charge of the Agriculture Ministry to Union Minister Arjun Munda. The reshuffle comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline ministerial responsibilities and enhance efficiency in governance..

Source : Avenuemail

Correct Answer :   Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

---

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a wax statue has been unveiled (6th Dec 2023) at the Jaipur Wax Museum, Nahargarh Fort. The Founder Director of the museum, Anoop Srivastava, shared the motivation behind this addition, citing the demand from tourists and visitors. The wax statue was inaugurated on December 6, coinciding with Mahaparinirvan Day, commemorating the passing of Baba Saheb Ambedkar.

Demand-Driven Decision : Anoop Srivastava highlighted the decision to create the wax statue was influenced by the numerous tourists from across India who frequented the museum, expressing a desire to see a representation of Baba Saheb. The statue stands as a testament to the enduring popularity of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy and the recognition of his pivotal role in shaping India’s constitutional framework.

Symbolic Placement : The wax statue finds its place within the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, sharing space with the likeness of another distinguished figure, Bharat Ratna Dr. Abdul Kalam, India’s Missile Man. This symbolic placement aims to capture the essence of two great personalities who have played crucial roles in shaping the nation’s destiny.

Design and Dimensions : Crafted with meticulous detail, the wax statue stands at an impressive height of 5 feet 11 inches, weighing approximately 38 kg. The sculpture faithfully replicates the iconic image of Baba Saheb, depicting him with the Constitution book in hand and adorned in his signature blue suit. This faithful representation serves to evoke the image deeply embedded in the minds of the people.

Inspiration for Generations : Anoop Srivastava emphasized that the life of Baba Saheb serves as an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come. By immortalizing his image in wax, the Jaipur Wax Museum aims to contribute to the preservation and celebration of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy, ensuring that his contributions to Indian society are remembered and honored.

Jaipur Wax Museum’s Unique Distinction : With the inclusion of the wax statue of Baba Saheb Ambedkar, the Jaipur Wax Museum now boasts a collection 43 wax figures of prominent personalities. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the wax museum in the world situated within a “heritage site” – the historic Nahargarh Fort.

Government Collaboration : Established in collaboration with the Department of Archaeology and Museums of the Government of Rajasthan in 2016, the Jaipur Wax Museum has successfully garnered acclaim both nationally and internationally. Its unique setting within a heritage site adds an extra layer of significance to the visitor experience..

Correct Answer :   Lalduhoma

---

In Mizoram, veteran politician and ZPM leader Lalduhoma was sworn-in as Chief Minister of the hill state 8th Dec 2023. He was administered oath of office and secrecy by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at Raj Bhawan in Aizawl.

The 74-year old Lalduhoma joined politics in 1984 when he was elected as Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) on Congress ticket. He has walked the political corridor for almost 40 years before assuming the Chief Ministership. In this year's elections, he led the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) to a decisive victory bagging as many as 27 seats in the 40-member House.

Apart from the Chief Minister, a total of 7 Cabinet Ministers also took oath of office and secrecy. They are - K Sapdanga, who has been allotted Home portfolio, Vanlalhlana, who will be looking after Public Works Department (PWD), C Lalsawivunga, who has been assigned District Council & Minority Affairs, Lalthansanga, who has been allotted Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr Vanlalthlana, who will be looking after School Education and Information & Public Relations, P C Vanlalruata, who has been assigned Agriculture Department. The lone woman in the Cabinet Lalrinpuii has been allotted the Health and Family Welfare Department.

Four Minister of State who took oath of office and secrecy are - F Rodingliana, who will look after Power & Electricity Department, B Lalchhanzova, who has been assigned Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Prof Lalnilawma, who has been allotted Rural Development and Lalnghinglova Hmar, who will be looking after Sports & Youth Services Department.

The Chief Minister will be looking after the Finance Department, among others.

Former Chief Ministers - Lal Thanhawla and Zoramthanga were also present in today’s ‘Swearing-in Ceremony’..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Ajit Doval

---

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, KC, participated in the 6th NSA-level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave on 07 December 2023 in Port Louis, Mauritius. The 6th NSA-level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave was hosted by Mauritius.

The National Security Advisers of Member Countries participated along with senior delegates from Bangladesh and Seychelles. Member States reviewed the progress of the decisions taken at the 5th NSA-level Meeting and agreed on a Roadmap of Activities for 2024.

Member States reiterated the role and responsibility of the CSC in ensuring the safety, security and stability of the Indian Ocean Region from traditional, non-traditional and emerging hybrid challenges.

During his visit to Mauritius, NSA Ajit Doval  also called on Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius  Pravind Kumar Jugnauth..


Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Rajiv Anand

---

Max Life Insurance, a material subsidiary of Max Financial Services, has a new Chairman, Rajiv Anand. This follows the stepping down of Analjit Singh from the Chairmanship and membership of the Board of Directors of Max Life Insurance.

On Monday (4th Dec 2023), the Board of Directors of Max Life Insurance noted the resignation of Analjit Singh and approved the appointment of Rajiv Anand as the Chairman of the Board, Max Financial Services said in a filing with the stock exchanges.

Before this elevation, Anand, a non-executive director of Max Life, was nominated by Axis Bank Ltd as Chairman of Max Life Insurance.

In his resignation letter, Singh said “As the promoter of Max Financial Services and Max Life Insurance Company, it has been most fulfilling and rewarding to be an integral part of the start-up and witnessing the Company’s achievements and growth over the last 23-24 years”.

Max New York Life (MNYL) was the first private sector insurance company to be incorporated in India on July 11, 2000, within a week after IRDAI permitted the incorporation of private sector insurance companies. On November 15, 2020, MNYL received its certification of registration from IRDAI.

Meanwhile, Analjit Singh, in his letter, said that the timing of his retirement is firstly linked to his personal transition and succession as well as to an understanding with Axis Bank to appoint the Chair on a rotational basis.

Calendar-wise, this was already due in April 2022. However, Axis Bank had asked Singh to continue.

Singh also said he was mindful of Axis Bank’s equity stake in Max Life and its ability to be the most potent business driver as the Company’s leading Bancassurance partner..


Source : The Hindu Businessline

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

---

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the two-day Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit at Forest Research Institute, FRI in Dehradun 8th Dec 2023.

* The main objective of this summit is to establish Uttarakhand as a new center of investment. Addressing the investors on this occasion, Mr. Modi said, the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit is a golden opportunity to invest in the state.

* The Prime Minister said that there has been rapid development of the road, rail and air sector in Uttarakhand, which will make it easier for industrial groups to invest in the state. He added, that there is untapped potential in the state for every investor.

* Referring to the tourism sector, Mr Modi said that there is immense potential for investment in tourism in Uttarakhand. He appealed to the countrymen to get married in the country instead of getting married abroad and asked to establish Uttarakhand as a destination wedding.

* The Prime Minister stressed strengthening the local supply chain and MSMEs in the country. He said that the country will have to focus on increasing exports and reducing imports.

* The Prime Minister said that in his third term, India will emerge as the third-largest economy in the world and this is bound to happen.

* Shri Modi asked investors to cooperate in capacity building for the development of the country. He appealed to the investors to become partners in the development of the state by investing in Uttarakhand. The Prime Minister expressed hope that industrial groups will invest more and more in Uttarakhand by taking advantage of the investor-friendly policies of the state.

* On this occasion, the Prime Minister also launched the House of Himalayas Brand of the women's self-help groups of the state. He said that with this brand the work of making 2 crore rural women Lakhpati Didi will be realized rapidly.

* Earlier, the Prime Minister held a road show in which he was welcomed by local women in traditional attire. The Prime Minister also visited an exhibition organized in connection with the Global Investors Summit. It may be recalled that thousands of investors and industry groups from India and abroad are participating in this Global Summit..


Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   8th December 2023

---

Veteran actor Junior Mehmood, known for his iconic roles in over 250 films spanning five decades, has passed away (8th December 2023) at the age of 67 after a prolonged battle with stage four stomach cancer.


Junior Mehmood's Last Moments At Home :

The actor, whose real name was Naeem Sayyed, breathed his last at his Mumbai residence. His ailment came to light two weeks ago, revealing a diagnosis of stage four cancer. The actor's condition worsened, leading to his demise at home last night.

Johnny Lever, a fellow comedian and actor, had earlier paid a visit to the ailing star, showing support during the challenging period. Other actors including Jeetendra and Sachin Pilgaonkar, with whom he shared the screen in various films, also visited him. Pilgaonkar and Junior Mehmood collaborated in movies like 'Bachpan,' 'Geet Gaata Chal,' and 'Brahmachari.'


Health Struggles & Final Farewell :

Close friend Salam Kazi, who confirmed Junior Mehmood's demise to ETimes, recounted the actor's health struggles.

Kazi disclosed, "He was ill for 2 months, and initially, we thought that he might have some minor problem. But after that, suddenly his weight started decreasing."

The medical reports revealed the severity of the situation, indicating cancer in the liver, lungs, and a tumour in the intestine, accompanied by jaundice.

Despite undergoing treatment at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Parel, Junior Mehmood's health continued to deteriorate. His funeral is scheduled to take place at the Juhu Muslim Cemetery in Santacruz west at 12 pm, where he will be laid to rest beside his mother.


A Cinematic Legacy :

In a career that spanned over four decades, Junior Mehmood made a lasting impact on Indian cinema, featuring in over 200 films across seven languages.

Junior Mehmood, who began his career as a child actor in 1967 with the film 'Naunihal,' quickly rose to prominence, earning his moniker from the late comedy icon Mehmood.

His cinematic journey included memorable performances in classics such as 'Kati Patang,' 'Mera Naam Joker,' 'Parvarish,' and 'Do Aur Do Paanch.' The late actor's contribution extended beyond films, as he actively participated in stage shows in India and abroad. His legacy endures through his cinematic contributions, leaving a lasting mark in the hearts of his audience..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   Mansukh Mandaviya

---

“Under the able and visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, the Indian Fertiliser Sector has achieved the twin objectives of supporting our 14 crore farming families by providing timely fertilisers, driving agronomic services, and emerging as a strong force in fertilisers sector by playing a significant role in shaping up the global market.” This was stated by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilisers and Health and Family Welfare during his inaugural address to the 59th Fertiliser Association of India Annual Seminar 2023, here today. The theme of the seminar was “Innovations in Fertiliser and Agriculture Sectors”.

* Highlighting the efforts taken by the Union Government in the fertilisers sector, Dr Mandaviya said “the Government has been stepping up its support to the small and marginal farmers, prioritizing their welfare and thereby, meeting the food security goals of the nation. During the past 2-3 years, the Government of India has absorbed the impact of high global commodity prices and ensured the availability of fertilisers at stable MRP. This has resulted in stable fertiliser consumption and a record agricultural output during these years, as compared to degrowth in consumption globally. He also stated that several proactive measures intending to strengthen domestic production and plugging leakages and diversions have been taken by the government, the combined efforts of which have led to record productivity.

* On the efforts taken by the government towards self sufficiency, the Union Minister said “more than 3 million tons of Urea capacity have been revived, with additional capacity expected to come on-stream in next couple of years.” He said that the government been working towards raw material security in the Phosphatic and Potassic sectors and are encouraging Indian companies to partner in overseas ventures, long term strategic partnerships and mining. He also underscored the need to focus on promotion of integrated crop management, improving soil health through balanced nutrition, developing technologically superior products and penetrating technology from labs to farmers field to promote sustainable farming practices.

* Dr Mandaviya informed that under the PM PRANAM initiative, a mass movement has started to save the health of Mother Earth by promoting sustainable and balanced use of fertilizers, adopting alternate fertilisers, promoting organic farming and implementing resource conservation technologies.

* The Union Minister also highlighted the recent technological interventions made by India in the agriculture sector. He said that India is the first nation to introduce Nano fertilisers such as Nano DAP and Nano Urea through the Indian Research ecosystem. “This is one of the one-of-a-kind technology in the world and can revolutionise the nutrient application practices on earth”, he stated. He also emphasised that the “NAMO Drone Didi” scheme which was recently launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, will make drone spraying services accessible to farmers at affordable prices.

* Dr Mandaviya encouraged Indian industries to scale up and develop smart nutrients like slow release, coated and liquid fertilisers which can improve nutrient use efficiency. He informed that the government have been engaging closely with the drone manufacturers, service providers and agri companies to develop cost effective solutions and improve technology penetration. He also highlighted that the Union Government has set up close to 2 lakh Model Retail outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras which are acting as one-stop shops for all agricultural activities.

* Dr Mandaviya concluded his speech by urging the fertiliser fraternity to move towards greener ways of fertiliser manufacturing and engage reasonably to achieve the goal of alleviating global food crisis. He assured the Union Government’s support to further strengthen communication and coordination between farmers, Government and Industry..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Indonesia

---

Indonesia’s Mount Marapi, located in West Sumatra, recently erupted, leading to a tragic incident resulting in the loss of lives and the disappearance of several climbers. The eruption occurred on December 3, 2023, catching many by surprise as authorities scrambled to evacuate those in the vicinity.


The Eruption and Immediate Aftermath :

As Mount Marapi unleashed its fury, a massive cloud of volcanic ash blanketed the sky and debris covered roads and vehicles. The eruption took place with 75 people in the area and while efforts were made to evacuate, 26 individuals were left behind. Abdul Malik, the head of the Padang Search and Rescue Agency, reported that out of the 26, only 14 have been accounted for, with three survivors and a devastating 11 casualties.


Search and Rescue Operations :

Video footage captured during the eruption showcased the severity of the incident, hindering rescue operations. The footage revealed the challenging conditions faced by rescue workers as they navigated through the ash-covered terrain. Unfortunately, a minor eruption on the following day forced a temporary suspension of the rescue efforts, adding complexity to an already dire situation.

 
Geological Context :

Indonesia is situated on the “Ring of Fire,” a volatile tectonic region known for its seismic and volcanic activity. The country boasts 127 active volcanoes and Mount Marapi, standing at 2,891 meters (approximately 9,500 feet), is among the most active on Sumatra. Currently at the second-highest alert level on Indonesia’s four-step warning scale, the volcano has a history of eruptions, with the deadliest recorded in 1979, claiming the lives of 60 people.


Human Impact and Unanswered Questions :

The tragedy raises concerns about the preparedness and response mechanisms in place for such natural disasters. Questions loom about the adequacy of evacuation plans and the overall safety measures implemented for climbers and residents in volcanic-prone areas. As families grieve the loss of their loved ones and anxiously await news of the missing, the incident prompts a reflection on the need for improved disaster management strategies.

Correct Answer :   7th December

---

International Civil Aviation Day  is observed on  December 7. This year (023) celebration zooms in on the theme of "Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development."

This theme focuses on how innovation will shape and improve civil aviation worldwide in the future. It implies a commitment to explore and implement innovative ideas and technological breakthroughs to advance and improve the aviation sector. The focus on innovation is consistent with the ongoing efforts to improve the safety, efficiency and sustainability of aviation.

International Civil Aviation Day is celebrated to raise global awareness of the role of aviation and international air transport in the social and economic development of the world. The day also recognises the special contribution of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in maintaining the efficiency, safety and cooperation of international aviation. It is observed each year to raise awareness of the value of aviation and its role in global socio-economic development.

On this day, special attention is paid to international aviation and how it connects the world. It is celebrated with numerous events, activities, press releases, seminars and lectures on aviation. From history to theme, scroll down to know more about this day.

History of International Civil Aviation Day :

* International Civil Aviation Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly on 7 December 1996.

* The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) was established on 7 December 1944 to promote global cooperation and uniformity in civil aviation matters.

* Both the International Air Transport Agreement and the International Services Transit Agreement were signed in the same year. In honour of its 50th anniversary, ICAO established International Civil Aviation Day in 1994.


International Civil Aviation Day significance :

* The significance of International Civil Aviation Day is to raise public awareness of the value of civil aviation and its impact on the social and economic progress of the world.

* It is an opportunity to highlight the role of global aviation organisations, in particular the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), in establishing and maintaining global standards for effective, safe and efficient air transport.

* This day also serves as a reminder of how air transport links the world and the importance of nations working together to solve common problems such as environmental sustainability, safety and security in aviation. It recognises the benefits of aviation to trade, tourism, global connectivity and overall economic growth..

Source : Hindustan Times