Correct Answer :   Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

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The Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways recently said 1467 projects of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been brought under the Bhoomi Rashi Portal.

About the Bhoomi Rashi Portal :

* It is an e-Governance initiative of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

* The portal intends to expedite the process of land acquisition for National Highways.

* It acts as a single-point platform for the online processing of land acquisition notifications to accelerate highway infrastructure development projects in India.

* This portal would enhance the efficiency of the land acquisition process, ensure transparency and accountability, and result in the e-transfer of benefits directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries.

Features :

* The portal has been integrated with the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) of the Ministry of Finance for depositing compensation in the accounts of affected/ interested persons on a real-time basis.

Correct Answer :   IndiGo

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In a first, India’s largest airline IndiGo on Monday (18 December 2023) announced that it had made history by “becoming the first Indian airline to carry 100 million passengers in a single calendar year.”

This remarkable milestone solidifies IndiGo’s position in the aviation industry and underscores its significant contribution to air travel in the country. With this development IndiGo has joined a select group of carriers globally.

“In CY (calendar year) 2022, the airline welcomed 78 million passengers on board (slightly above pre Covid-19 levels). IndiGo recently achieved another first for India, by becoming the first airline to operate more than 2,000 flights a day. Today, IndiGo operates to 118 destinations, including 32 international destinations,” the airline said in a statement.

* The airline had previously welcomed 78 million passengers onboard in the calendar year 2022, slightly surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels.


2,000 daily scheduled flights :

* In addition to this significant passenger milestone, IndiGo recently set another record for India by becoming the first airline to operate more than 2,000 flights a day.

* Presently, the airline serves 118 destinations, including 32 international destinations, reflecting its widespread operational reach, as mentioned in a statement released by IndiGo.

IndiGo’s commanding market presence :

* As of November, IndiGo maintained a dominant position in the domestic aviation market, boasting a robust market share of 61.8%, a staggering six times more than its closest competitor, Air India. In the international segment, IndiGo continued to assert its influence with a significant market share of 18.5% during July-September, solidifying its standing among all international airlines operating flights to and from India.



IndiGo’s expansion plans :

* The airline is expanding both its network and fleet and has rrecently made history with the largest-ever aircraft order, securing 500 Airbus A320 family planes. Combined with pending deliveries from previous orders, IndiGo has an impressive total of nearly 1,000 planes on order, and the planned deliveries extend well into the next decade.

* “Over the last 6 months, IndiGo has added more than 20 new international routes to its network while strengthening domestic connectivity. Over the next few months, the airline aims to further add destinations like Bali, Indonesia, and Medina, Saudi Arabia to its network and deliver growth in the most financially and environmentally sound way possible,” IndiGo said..


Source : Financial Express

Correct Answer :   Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar

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Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy under National Sports Awards 2023 will be awarded to Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar this year (2023).

The Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy is awarded every year for outstanding performance in inter-university tournaments.

The first runner up award will be given to Lovely Professional University, Punjab and the second runner up award will be given to Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra. 

Correct Answer :   Sanjay Singh

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Sanjay Singh was elected the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) with his panel comfortably winning most of the posts in the delayed polls to assert control over the sports body on Thursday (21st Dec 2023).

* Singh, who is part of the Brij Bhushan faction and UP Wrestling Association vice president, secured 40 votes as against the seven that the other candidate, Anita Sheoran, polled. The result to many was a foregone conclusion as the opposing faction simply didn’t have the necessary numbers.

* Singh hails from Varanasi and is known to be a close associate of Brij Bhushan, former WFI chief, whose term had ended amid allegations of sexual harassment.

* “Jinko kushti karni hai woh kushti karein. Jinko rajneeti karni hain woh rajneeti karein. (Wrestlers who want to compete, they should wrestle. Those who want to do politics, should do politics)” Singh says after sweeping the election.

* “It’s triumph for thousands of wrestlers in the country who suffered in the past seven-eight months,” Singh said.

* However, it wasn’t a complete loss for Sheoran’s panel as they claimed the key post of secretary general with Prem Chand Lochab, a former RSPB (Railway Sports Promotion Board) secretary, beating Darshan Lal 27-19.

* Devender Singh Kadian, who runs a chain of food outlets on national highways and is considered close to the protesting wrestlers, claimed the senior vice president’s post, beating I D Nanavati 32-15.

* The Brij Bhushan camp swept all the four posts of vice presidents with Delhi’s Jai Prakash (37), West Bengal’s Asit Kumar Saha (42), Punjab’s Kartar Singh (44) and Manipur’s N Phoni (38) winning. The new Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav, who did not turn up for the polls, got only five votes in the election for the post of vice president.

* Uttarakhand’s Satyapal Singh Deshwal, who is also from the Brij Bhushan camp, is the new treasurer. He beat Jammu and Kashmir’s Dushyant Sharma 34-12. All five executive committee members are also from the outgoing chief’s camp.

* The outcome of the polls shows that little is likely to change in the field of Indian wrestling despite the desperate calls from the protesting wrestlers, who had accused Brij Bhushan of sexually harassing women wrestlers.

* The wrestlers had officially called off their protest on June 7 after sports minister Anurag Thakur assured them that none of the family members or close associates of Brij Bhushan will be allowed to enter the WFI election fray..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   $5.9

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India's October 2023 FDI Hits 21-Month High at $5.9 Billion, Led by Strong Inflows and Reduced Repatriation. Global Economic Slump Reflects in Cumulative April-October FDI Plunge to $10.43 Billion.

In October 2023, India experienced a surge in net foreign direct investment (FDI), reaching a 21-month high at $5.9 billion. This upswing was attributed to robust gross inflows and a decrease in repatriation. The Reserve Bank of India’s data revealed a notable increase from $1.54 billion in September 2023 and $1.16 billion in October 2022.


Key Points :

* Repatriation Decline : Repatriation, the withdrawal of funds from direct investments in India, dropped to $1.10 billion in October 2023, compared to $3.43 billion in September 2023 and $2.93 billion in October 2022.

* Major Source Countries : Mauritius, Singapore, Cyprus, and Japan emerged as major contributors, accounting for over four-fifths of the total FDI inflows in October 2023.

* Sectoral Inflows : Approximately four-fifths of gross inward FDI equity flows were directed towards manufacturing, retail and wholesale trade, electricity and other energy sectors, and the financial services sector.

* Global Investment Landscape : Despite global economic challenges, emerging economies like India continue to attract investments. The RBI’s ‘State of Economy’ article in the November 2023 bulletin emphasized India’s resilience as an investment destination.

Contrast in Cumulative FDI :

However, the cumulative net FDI for April-October 2023 plummeted by half, reaching $10.43 billion compared to $20.76 billion in the same period of 2022. This downturn is attributed to the worldwide economic slowdown affecting both inbound and outbound investment flows.


Outward FDI Commitments in November 2023 :

India’s outward FDI commitments declined by 19.6% in November 2023 to $1.55 billion. This is in stark contrast to the over $1.93 billion recorded in October 2023 and a significant drop from $3.67 billion in November 2022. The components of outward FDI, including equity, loans, and guarantees, all witnessed notable reductions..

Correct Answer :   Haryana

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This sacred town, resplendent with cultural heritage and spiritual significance, on Sunday (17th Dec 2023) witnessed the grand inauguration of the International Gita Mahotsav – 2023.

International Gita Mahotsav began with Gita Aarti at Brahma Sarovar, promising a week-long blend of spirituality, cultural diversity, and global participation, captivating visitors until December 24, 2023.

Kurukshetra, a sacred town resonating with cultural heritage and spiritual significance, witnessed a grand spectacle as it hosted the inauguration of the International Gita Mahotsav – 2023. This week-long celebration promises a unique blend of spirituality, cultural diversity, and global participation, captivating visitors until December 24.


Commencement with Sacred Rituals :

The auspicious event kicked off with the enchanting Gita Aarti and worship of the holy scripture at Brahma Sarovar. The serene surroundings echoed with verses from the Bhagavad Gita, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching experience.


Inauguration by Distinguished Guests :

A momentous ceremony unfolded as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj inaugurated the festivities. Their participation marked the commencement of a celebration that goes beyond borders, embodying the universal teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.


Cultural Kaleidoscope :

The inaugural ceremony featured traditional cultural performances by artists from various states. This added a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and expressions to the event, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural richness.


Rituals and Offerings :

Vice President Dhankhar and Chief Minister Khattar, adhering to tradition, performed the ritualistic pouring of holy water from Brahma Sarovar. This was followed by worship and the offering of flowers to the sacred scripture, enhancing the luminous atmosphere of the event. Their active participation in the Gita Aarti further elevated the spiritual ambiance.

State Pavilions: Showcasing Cultural Diversity :

As part of the festivities, the Assam and Haryana pavilions were formally inaugurated by the Vice President. These pavilions offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diverse cultural and artistic heritage of these states. The state-level exhibition showcased scenes ranging from food and accommodation to clothing, creating a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.


Holistic Experience at International Gita Mahotsav :

The International Gita Mahotsav promises a holistic experience with global Gita recitations involving 18,000 students. Cultural programs organized by the North Region Cultural Arts Centre of Patiala and Haryana Art and Cultural Department add a vibrant touch to the festivities. The event also features an International Gita Seminar, a saints’ conference, aarti at the Brahma Sarovar, Deepotsav, and cultural programs at 164 locations within a 48-km radius.


Summary :

* Grand Inauguration : The International Gita Mahotsav – 2023 was inaugurated in Kurukshetra, a sacred town, with a rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance.

* Distinguished Guests : Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj led the grand inauguration ceremony.

* State Pavilions : Assam and Haryana pavilions were inaugurated, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the diverse cultural and artistic heritage of these states.

* Holistic Experience : The International Gita Mahotsav promised a holistic experience with global Gita recitations, cultural programs, a seminar, a saints’ conference, aarti at Brahma Sarovar, Deepotsav, and cultural programs at 164 locations within a 48-km radius.

* Celebration of Diversity : The festival, dedicated to the sacred scripture Bhagavad Gita, serves as an annual celebration of diversity, culture, and spirituality, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Kurukshetra’s heritage..


Source : Sarkaritel

Correct Answer :   153rd

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Pune has the second best ‘quality of life’ in India after Hyderabad, says the Quality of Living Index 2023 released by Mercer, a global consultant for businesses.

In India, while Pune scored the 154th position in Mercer’s Quality of Living City Index,  Hyderabad ranked 153rd and Bengaluru attained the 156th spot.   Vienna (Austria), Zurich (Switzerland) and Vancouver (Canada) are the top three cities in that order, according to the 2023 index.

This index evaluates the quality of life for employees working abroad, especially with families, and relies on data from over 500 cities all over the world. The ranking is based on factors like climate, schools and education, disease and sanitation standards, violence and crime, physical remoteness and ease of communications and socio-political environment.

The last of these rankings were published in 2019 where Pune and Hyderabad both shared the 143rd position.

In 2022, a Cost of Living City ranking was released evaluating the most expensive cities for international employees to live. Mumbai emerged as the most expensive Indian city with a rank of 127. It was followed by New Delhi (155), Chennai (177), Bengaluru (178), Hyderabad (192) and Pune at rank 201.

In a similar index prepared by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs called Ease of Living Index 2023, Pune ranked second among cities with a population over a million. In 2018, Pune achieved the top rank..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   Arctic Region

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The Honourable Union Minister, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Sh Kiren Rijiju, flagged off India’s first winter scientific expedition to the Arctic from the MoES headquarters in New Delhi on December 18, 2023. Indian scientific expeditions to the Arctic during the winter (November to March) will allow researchers to conduct unique scientific observations during polar nights, where there is no sunlight for nearly 24 hours and sub-zero temperatures (as low as -15 degrees Celsius). This will aid in expanding understanding of the Arctic, especially climate change, space weather, sea-ice and ocean circulation dynamics, ecosystem adaptations, etc., which affect weather and climate in the tropics, including monsoons.     

Since 2008, India operates a research base in the Arctic named Himadri, which has been mostly hosting scientists during the summer (April to October). The decision to facilitate winter expeditions to the Arctic comes after an in-person review of India’s Arctic activities by Sh Rijiju at Himadri, Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard in the Norwegian Arctic, in June 2023. Elaborating on ambitious plans of the Government to expand India’s scientific prowess, the Hon’ble Union Minister said, “Towards achieving the vision of the Honourable PM, Sh Narendra Modi, of making India a developed nation by 2047, we are committed to expanding scientific activities and international cooperation and collaboration.

Artic is an area of scientific, climatic, and strategic importance; hence, our scientists will have to play a vital role in addressing areas that affect life and survival on this planet”. He encouraged and interacted with members of India’s Arctic expedition who are set to depart from New Delhi for Himadri on December 19, 2023, and wished them a safe and productive stay. The first batch of the maiden Arctic winter expedition comprises researchers from the host NCPOR, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi; Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune; and Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru.

Dr M Ravichandran, Secretary, MoES, said, “The launch of winter expeditions marks an important milestone for India’s Arctic endeavours, which opens more avenues for us to expand our scientific capabilities in Earth’s poles”. Sh Vishwajit Sahay, Additional Secretary and Finance Adviser, MoES; Sh D Senthil Pandian, Joint Secretary, MoES; Dr Vijay Kumar, Head, PACER (Polar and Cryosphere) and Scientist G/Adviser, MoES; Dr Thamban Meloth, Director, NCPOR; and Dr Manish Tiwari, Scientist F and Group Director of the Arctic Operations, NCPOR, were key dignitaries at the event.

Launching winter expeditions to the Arctic makes India among select nations with extended in-time operations in the Arctic. Priority research areas include atmospheric, biological, marine, and space sciences, environmental chemistry, and studies on cryosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, and astrophysics. To facilitate the Arctic expeditions, NCPOR reviews research proposals from across the country invited through an open call for applications to conduct cutting-edge research in the Arctic region. “This year, MoES received 41 proposals for winter Arctic research, of which 15 have been shortlisted after a thorough peer review and expert selection committee process”, informed Dr Meloth, Director, NCPOR..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   20th December

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International Human Solidarity Day 2023 is a significant observance held annually on December 20th. Recognized by the UN General Assembly, this day emphasizes the importance of solidarity in fostering global unity and diversity. As candidates prepare for competitive exams, it is crucial to delve into the theme, history and significance of International Human Solidarity Day 2023.


International Human Solidarity Day 2023 – Date : Marked on the 20th December 2023, International Human Solidarity Day serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility of nations to honor their commitment to international agreements.


International Human Solidarity Day 2023- Historical Background :

The roots of this day trace back to December 22, 2005, when the UN General Assembly acknowledged solidarity as a fundamental value of the twenty-first century through Resolution 60/209. This recognition led to the establishment of the World Solidarity Fund to combat poverty, coupled with the declaration of International Human Solidarity Day.

International Human Solidarity Day 2023 Theme :

As of now, the specific theme for International Human Solidarity Day 2023 has not been released. Once unveiled, it will be updates on the dedicated International Human Solidarity Day 2023 Theme Page.


Check This: Important Days in December 2023 :

International Human Solidarity Day 2023 Significance :

International Human Solidarity Day holds immense significance, serving as a platform for nations to reaffirm their commitment to various international agreements. On this day, discussions and events revolve around fostering solidarity, addressing issues such as land mine usage, disaster relief, universal education, poverty eradication and more.

The day carries added importance as it encourages new initiatives for poverty eradication, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. The United Nations outlines the significance of this day by emphasizing:

* Celebrating unity in diversity
* Reminding governments to uphold international commitments
* Raising public awareness about the importance of solidarity
* Promoting solidarity for achieving Sustainable Development Goals, especially poverty eradication.

Correct Answer :   Prahlad Joshi

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Gearing up for the success of the first tranche of auction of Critical and Strategic Minerals,  launched on 29th November, 2023, the Ministry of Mines conducted a roadshow here on 19th December, 2023, in the presence of Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Minister of state for Mines, Coal & Railways, Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve and  Secretary, Ministry of Mines Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, senior officers of the Ministry, Industry Associations and PSUs. Over 45 companies, consultants and exploration agencies participated in the event. Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi also launched the National Geoscience Data Repository Portal (NGDR) during the event.

A total of 20 critical & strategic mineral blocks will be auctioned in the 1st tranche, out of which 16 mineral blocks are put up for grant of Composite Licence and four mineral blocks for grant of Mining Lease. The minerals include Graphite, Glauconite, Lithium, REE, Molybdenum, Nickel, Potash etc. The blocks are spread across the States of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and UT – Jammu & Kashmir.

Addressing the function, Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi appraised the efforts and initiatives undertaken by Ministry of Mines for increasing domestic production of minerals, meeting the goals of self-sufficiency as envisioned by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He emphasized how the Indian mining sector in general, and critical minerals in particular are significant in the present global context, underscoring priorities such as strengthening domestic production, fostering self-sufficiency, diminishing import reliance, advocating sustainable resource management, attracting investments in the mining sector and advancing key industries crucial for India's industrial and technological progress. The Government is committed to bring more  critical mineral blocks to auction in a phased manner, the Minister added.

The Minister of State for Mines, Coal and Railways, Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve expressed optimism about the potential success of the initial phase of the critical minerals auction, seeing it as a positive stride toward establishing a dependable supply chain for these minerals, aligning with the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat and contributing to heightened economic growth. The Minister of State of Mines reiterated the government’s efforts to bring these blocks into auction and how the success of this auction process relies on the active participation from the industry. He called upon all the participants to demonstrate the highest standards of transparency, fairness and ethical practices throughout the auction process.

Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines gave insights about the steps taken by Ministry of Mines to increase the exploration activity carried out in the country and about the efforts to streamline the policy framework for multifaceted growth of the mineral sector. Secretary, Mines also responded to the queries of the participants and ensured all assistance from the Ministry for easy participation in the e-auction process. Shri Rao also encouraged the participants to give their suggestions for the e-auction process being conducted by Central Government..


Source : PIB