Correct Answer :   Gurugram

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The World's first portable hospital, 'Aarogya Maitri Aid Cube' was unveiled on Saturday (2nd December 2023) in Gurugram.

Designed indigenously under the Project 'BHISHM', the modular trauma management and aid system is made up of 72 detachable mini-cubes, each being a specialized station for emergency response and humanitarian efforts.

It can handle bullet injuries, burns, head, spinal and chest injuries, minor surgeries, fractures and major bleeding. It can treat as many as 200 patients. These cubes are light and portable, and can be rapidly deployed anywhere, from airdrops to ground transportation.

Talking to Akashwani News, Air Vice Marshal Tanmay Roy said that the mobile hospital is part of India’s message of health for all and assisting other nations during their times of crises..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   IIT Ropar

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The Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Shri Banwarilal Purohit, inaugurated a Deeptech Startup Accelerator Program dedicated to catalyzing innovation in agriculture and water technology called SAMRIDHI (Strategic Acceleration for Market, Research, Innovation & Development: a Holistic Initiative for ICPS Startups) hosted by iHub AwaDH, a Technology and Innovation Hubs set up UNDER National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).

The  SAMRIDHI conclave in which five strategic collaborations were formalized, featured five deep-tech innovations. A total of 13 startups shortlisted through rigorous evaluation, presented their ideas while 25 startups showcased their solutions at the exhibition. More than 30 experts spoke on strategic acceleration for market research, innovation, and development.

Dr Akhilesh Gupta, Secretary of the Science and Engineering Research Board; Senior Adviser, DST, GoI, reinforced the efforts taken by the NMICPS to orchestrate the Technology Self-reliant Atmanirbhar Bharat. Mission Director of NM on ICPS Dr Ekta Kapoor, projected the key highlights of the mission leading to CPS technology interventions across sectors such as agriculture infrastructure health, defence, and environment.

Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, Prof. Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Dr Pushpendra Pal Singh, Project Director, AwaDH and Mr. Amitabh Nag, CEO of Bhashini Digital India were also present on the ocassion.  The event emphasized DST's pivotal role in shaping the future of technology in the region through NMICPS. The Mission has led to the generation of 311 technologies, 549 technology products and created 1613 CPS research bases and contributed to more than 60000 cps skilling.

The conclave organised by IIT Ropar’s Technology and Innovation Hub AwaDH was supported by 46 investment partners, and over 50 jury members evaluated and mentored the startups. Over 110 partners nationwide actively contributed to driving innovation and fostering technological self-reliance. The program is executed with the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM – ICPS), reinforcing DST's commitment to advancing technology and innovation.

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   4 December

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Navy Day is celebrated in India each year on December 4. The day has a special place in every Indian's hearts, who celebrate the occasion with pride.


Navy Day History :

* The Indian Navy celebrates Navy Day on December 4, as remembrance for "Operation Trident" that was launched by the navy against Karachi Harbour during the India-Pakistan war in 1971.

* The operation was started in response to Pakistan's operation Chengiz Khan which was a preemptive airstrike against the Indian airbase. The navy replied through "Operation Trident" and later launched "Operation Cactus" and "Python".

* Additionally, the day is also celebrated in memory of the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the 1971 war.

Navy Day 2023 Theme :

The theme for 2023 Navy Day is "Operational Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission Accomplishment in the Maritime Domain".


Navy Day Significance :

Navy Day is a tribute to all the soldiers who have served or continue to serve the country. The day is an occasion to remember those who sacrificed their lives to protect India.

Correct Answer :   London

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In elections held at its assembly on Friday (1st Dec 2023) for the 2024–25 biennium, India was re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council with the highest tally.

India's re-election falls under the Category of 10 states with "the largest interest in international seaborne trade", alongside Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that regulates shipping, its headquarters is in London.  

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Ministry has made every possible effort under the leadership of PM Modi. We are delighted and humbled by the support of the international community at the International Maritime Organisation for India. The highest votes are indicative of the government's determination to strengthen India's varied contributions to international maritime operations.

India secured the large-scale support of the international community at the International Maritime Organisation for India to continue to serve the global maritime domain. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is the leading authority that regulates the maritime industry, which supports global trade, transportation, and all marine operations.

Indian delegation was led by Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and waterways Shri T.K Ramachandaran, with Members including DG Shipping Shri Shyam Jagannathan, officers of DGS, High Commission of India at London and industry representatives.

The council is the executive organ of IMO and is responsible, under the assembly, for supervising the work of the organization. Between sessions of the assembly, the council performs the functions of the assembly, except that of making recommendations to governments on maritime safety and pollution prevention.

Under the MIV 2030 to enhance representation at IMO India aims at appointing permanent representatives at IMO London. With a view to enhance and garner maritime expertise for India, it is proposed that India should nominate at least 2 qualified candidates for the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program at the IMO. The JPO Program is an established program within the United Nations with the main objective of providing young professionals an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international cooperation under the supervision of specialists and to contribute to the advancement of their nation’s mandate.

The Amrik Kaal Vision 2047 has also set goals to strengthen India’s global maritime presence. There are 43 initiatives identified as part of Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 Action Plan of which, the key initiatives focus on strengthening our global maritime presence which includes dedicated IMO cell in India, appointment of a permanent representative at IMO headquarters, London, implementation of BIMSTEC Master Plan, creating a robust BIMSTEC institutional structure to ensure implementation of regional projects in a coordinated & timely manner etc..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Kanchan Devi

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Kanchan Devi, an IFS officer from the 1991 batch of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, was appointed as director general of Dehradun-based Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) on Friday (1st Dec 2023).

This marks a historic milestone, with Kanchan becoming the first woman officer to ascend to this esteemed position within the premier council operating under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.


A Trailblazer’s Journey: Kanchan Devi’s 30-Year Odyssey in Forestry :

Kanchan Devi brings to her new role an impressive track record of over 30 years in the realm of forestry. Her extensive expertise spans a myriad of aspects, including forest management, administration, education, human resource development, research, and extension. Having navigated the intricate tapestry of the forestry landscape, Kanchan has not only showcased her proficiency but has also paved the way for future generations of women in forestry.


Educator Extraordinaire: Contributions at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy :

Prior to her recent appointment, Kanchan served as a faculty member at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) in Dehradun. Her contributions to forestry education have been significant, shaping the minds of aspiring foresters. Beyond academia, Kanchan actively engaged in uplifting rural communities by implementing, analyzing, and recommending updates to prevailing forest policies.

ICFRE Stalwart: Kanchan’s Crucial Role as Deputy Director :

During her tenure at ICFRE, where she served as Deputy Director for the past four years, Kanchan played a pivotal role in advancing forestry education. Her responsibilities included accrediting courses, undertaking research studies on forest policies, and enhancing human resource development. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the functioning and progress of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education.


The ICFRE: Nurturing India’s Forestry Landscape :

The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) stands as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Government of India. With its headquarters in Dehradun, the ICFRE plays a crucial role in conducting forestry research, transferring developed technologies to states and user agencies, and imparting forestry education. Established in 1986 under the Central Ministry of Environment and Forests, ICFRE is the largest organization responsible for forestry research in India..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Ravi Gupta

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Senior IPS officer Ravi Gupta was on Sunday (3rd Dec 2023) given the full additional charge of Director General of Police of Telangana following the suspension of incumbent Anjani Kumar by the Election Commission for violation of the model code of conduct.

Ravi Gupta is currently the Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

"Ravi Gupta is placed in a full additional charge to the post of DGP, Head of Police Force (HoPF) of Telangana, with immediate effect, until further orders", Telangana Chief Secretary A Santhi Kumari said in a Government Order.

The Election Commission on Sunday (3rd Dec 2023) ordered the suspension of Telangana DGP Anjani Kumar for violation of the MCC as the counting of votes was underway in the state, sources said.

They said the DGP, along with state police nodal officer Sanjay Jain and nodal officer (expenditure) Mahesh Bhagwat, met Anumula Revanth Reddy, the state Congress president and a candidate, with a bouquet at his residence in Hyderabad amid the counting of votes...

Source : NDTV

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (4th Dec 2023) unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district.

Modi paid homage to the rich maritime heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who constructed several coastal and sea forts, including the Sindhudurg Fort.

The Maratha empire founder's seal inspired the new naval ensign that was adopted last year when PM Modi commissioned the first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.

Later on Monday, PM Modi is scheduled to witness the operational demonstration by Indian Navy on the occasion of Navy Day..

Source : Outlook India

Correct Answer :   13.69 Crore

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Tap water supply has reached around 13.69 Crore households under the Jal Jeevan Mission - Har Ghar Jal. This covers 71 percent of total rural households, up from 17 per cent in 2019.

According to a data released by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, nine states and union territories including Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have reported to have provided tap water connection to all rural households in their respective domains as on September 2023.

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Kenya

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President of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto arrived in New Delhi 4th Dec 2023 on a three-day visit to India. He is being accompanied by a high-level official delegation.

This is President Ruto’s first visit to India in his present capacity. He will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan tomorrow.

President Ruto will hold detailed discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the afternoon tomorrow.

Then he will meet President Droupadi Murmu in the evening. A State Banquet will be hosted by President Murmu in honour of the visiting dignitary.
 
The Kenyan President will also participate in a business and investment event in New Delhi. A Presidential visit from Kenya is taking place after a period of over six years. The visit is expected to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   49th

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The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) unveiled its 2023 World Digital Competitiveness Ranking (WDCR) on Friday (1st Dec 2023), revealing India's position at 49th among 64 economies.

According to IMD's study, India has made significant in terms of cybersecurity knowledge but lacks on fronts like technology and future readiness.

The WDCR is a comprehensive assessment that provides insights into how nations are navigating the digital landscape amid the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). This ranking sheds light on crucial elements contributing to a nation's digital prowess, a quality gaining paramount importance as technology continues to reshape societies globally.

According to IMD, the United States has reclaimed the top spot in this year's ranking, solidifying its position as a "digital nation" that actively integrates digital technologies, including AI, across governmental, corporate, and individual domains. The Netherlands secured the second position, advancing four places, while Singapore, leading in the technology factor, secured the third spot.

Denmark, the previous overall leader, slipped to fourth place due to declines in future readiness and technology factors. Switzerland, excelling in the knowledge factor, maintained its top position, completing the top five.

In the Asia-Pacific region, India has descended to the 12th position among 14 countries, a drop from its consistent 11th place in the previous four years. On a global scale, among the 27 nations with populations exceeding 20 million, India now ranks 18th, a decline of two positions from the previous year.

Examining India's performance, the nation showcased improvements in cybersecurity knowledge, particularly in talent, training, and education. However, a sub-factor in scientific concentration experienced a setback. Notably, strengths were evident in graduates in sciences and research and development productivity by publication.

In the technology domain, India secured the 50th spot, with challenges in enforcing contracts, wireless broadband, and internet users. On the positive side, investments in telecommunications, along with IT and media stock market capitalisation, emerged as notable strengths.

Future readiness parameters placed India at 51st, highlighting weaknesses in tablet possession, internet retailing, and E-governance. Meanwhile, the distribution of world robots stood out as a strength.

A parallel report from the World Bank identified five countries—China, Brazil, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam—as responsible for 75% of the world's total digital infrastructure investment in 2023, capturing an impressive $68.3 billion..


Source : CNBC