Correct Answer :   200th

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long celebrations commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi 12th February 2023. He also released a logo for commemoration.

* Upon arriving at the venue, the Prime Minister walked past the panorama and live representations of Arya Samaj and also offered Ahuti Arpan in the ongoing Yagya.

* Later on, he handed over the LED Mashal to youth representatives as a symbolic carry forward of the spark ignited in this programme reinforcing the messages of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati to the rest of India and the world.

* Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister called the occasion of the 200th birth anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati historic, an occasion to create a future and inspiration for the entire world.

* Referring to  Maharishi Dayanand’s ideal of making the world a better place, the Prime Minister said in this era of discord, violence and instability, the path shown by Maharishi Dayanand gives hope.  

* The Prime Minister underlined that the auspicious occasion will be celebrated for two years and said that the government has decided to celebrate the 200th birth anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati.

* The Prime Minister underlined that Maharishi Dayanand ji also emerged as a logical and effective voice against the stereotypes that had flourished in society regarding women.

* He informed that Maharishi Dayanand ji strongly opposed discrimination against women and also initiated campaigns for the education of women while underlining that these facts are more than 150 years old.

* Even in today’s day and age, the Prime Minister said, there are societies which deprive women of their right to education and respect, but it was Maharishi Dayanand who raised his voice when equal rights for women was a far-fetched reality, even in the western countries.

* The Prime Minister underlined that the country is witnessing progress with non-discriminatory policies and efforts which were a priority for Swami Ji also.

* “The service of the poor, backward and downtrodden is the first yagya for the country today.”  He cited housing, medical treatment, and women empowerment in this regard. New Education policy promotes modern education with emphasis on Indianness as taught by Swami ji...

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   February 13

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Every year on February 13, the nation commemorates Sarojini Naidu’s birth anniversary. The 144th anniversary of Sarojini Naidu’s birth is this year (2023).

* She was well-known in India as a poet, politician, and administrator. She was one of the well-known female figures of the 20th century and was born on February 13th, 1879 in Hyderabad.

* Because of her poetry, she was often referred to as the “Nightingale of India.” She was a key figure in the Indian National Movement, which fought for the nation’s independence.

* She has written several poetries on subjects including tragedy, romance, and patriotism. However, the legend was also known as a brave freedom fighter.

* Sarojini Naidu was the first female governor of the United Provinces, which is the modern-day state of Uttar Pradesh. Due to her political and academic prowess, she was chosen in 1925 to lead the Indian National Congress..

Source : News18

Correct Answer :   Second Monday of February

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International Epilepsy Day is celebrated on the second Monday of February every year, and this year (2023), this day falls on the 13th of February.

Aim : to spread awareness of the Epilepsy disease

International Epilepsy Day 2023 Theme : International Epilepsy Day 2023 is observed on February 14 all over the globe. The theme for International Epilepsy Day 2023 will focus on the theme of 'Stigma' to put light on the challenges faced by people living with epilepsy.

International Epilepsy Day History : The day was organised by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE). It started in 2015.

The purpose behind observing the day is to provide a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with audiences across the world. It is also a call for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee human rights to people with epilepsy.

The day also encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential.

It is one of the world's oldest known medical conditions, associated with public fear and misunderstanding about epilepsy, making various people reluctant to talk about it.

This reluctance may lead to lives lived in shadows, a lack of understanding about individual risk, discrimination in workplaces, and communities, and also a lack of funding for new therapies research.

Source : Epilepsyday

Correct Answer :   Pune

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The Annual Meeting of Members of the River Cities Alliance (RCA) "DHARA" is being organized in Pune from 13th - 14th February 2023.

* DHARA which stands for Driving Holistic Action for Urban Rivers.

* The annual meeting of the members of the River Cities Alliance (RCA), is being organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) in association with National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) from 13th to 14th February in Pune.

* The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will deliver the keynote address on the inaugural day of the event while the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Kaushal Kishore will deliver the valedictory address on day two.

* DHARA 2023 will provide a platform for senior officials including Commissioners, Addl. Commissioners, Chief Engineers and Senior Planners of the 95-member river cities in India to co-learn and discuss solutions for managing local water bodies.

Key Points :

* DHARA strong synergies with Urban20 initiative under ambit of India’s G20 Presidency

* Day 2 of the event will witness a Yoga session & visit to Mulla Mutha riverfront

* PM laid foundation stone for a pollution abatement project for Mulla Mutha River in Pune in March 2022.

* River Cities Alliance started with 30 cities in 2021 and currently has 95 cities as members across India

* RCA was launched in 2021 as a dedicated platform for river cities across India to discuss & exchange information for sustainable management of urban rivers

* DHARA 2023 is being organised for Municipal Commissioners of member cities to come up with possible learning solutions for urban river management

* Expected outcome includes development of a compendium of technological solutions that cities may adopt for enhancing management of local rivers

* DHARA will shine light on unaddressed issues & challenges for river management in cities and help NIUA & partners in formulating an effective work plan..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday(13th Feb 2023) inaugurated the 14th edition of India's largest aerospace and defence exhibition, Aero India.

At the event, the prime minister bolstered the 'Make in India' campaign and gave a fresh impetus to the domestic aviation sector.

Aero India show 2023 Dates : The 14th edition of the Aero India 2023 is being held by the Indian Department of Defense Production from February 13–17 at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Aero India show 2023 in Bengaluru Theme : PM Modi inaugurated the five-day event on the theme 'The runway to a billion opportunities'.

Aero India show 2023 Venue : Aero India-2023 is being held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station. The event will showcase India's growth in aerospace and defence capabilities. The focus of Aero India-2023 this time will be on putting on display indigenous equipment / technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies, in line with 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision.

Aero India show 2023 Participants : It will be the biggest ever event till date and is likely to witness the participation of 98 countries, the Defence Ministers of 32 countries, Air Chiefs of 29 countries and 73 Chief Executive Officers of global and Indian original equipment manufacturers.

Aero India show 2023 Exhibitors List  : As many as 809 defence companies, including Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups, will showcase the advancement in niche technologies and growth in aerospace and defence sectors.

The major exhibitors include Airbus, Boeing, Dassault Aviation, Lockheed Martin, Israel Aerospace Industry, BrahMos Aerospace, Army Aviation, HC Robotics, SAAB, Safran, Rolls Royce, Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and BEML Limited.

Aero India show 2023 : India's might to be showcased : The event aims to promote export of indigenous air platforms like Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas, HTT-40, Dornier Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). It will integrate domestic MSMEs and startups in global supply chain and attract foreign investments including the partnerships for co-development and co-production." ..

Source : Zeebiz

Correct Answer :   13th February

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World Radio Day is celebrated every year on February 13 all around the world. In addition to raising awareness of radio's importance among the public and the media, World Radio Day is also intended to encourage decision-makers to set up and provide radio access to information, and to facilitate networking and international cooperation among broadcasters.

At the global level, radio remains the most widely consumed medium. Humanity is celebrated through radio in all its diversity, and it provides a platform for democratic discourse. Radio is the most effective way of delivering information. It is a free, democratic, and trusted one.

World Radio Day 2023 Theme : The theme for the 12th edition of World Radio Day is "Radio and Peace".

On World Radio Day 2023, UNESCO highlights independent radio as a pillar for conflict prevention and peacebuilding. Promoting and encouraging the use of the radio is the goal of the day.

World Radio Day History : World Radio Day was first proposed by Spain in September 2010.

* As part of its 36th session, UNESCO's General Conference declared February 13, World Radio Day in 2011.

* February 13 is the anniversary of the founding of United Nations Radio, the UN's international broadcasting service, which was established on this date in 1946 by UNESCO's Director-General.

* During its 67th Session, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on January 14, 2013. The United Nations General Assembly formally endorsed UNESCO's proclamation on February 13 as World Radio Day.

* Indian radio broadcasting began in the early 1920s, and in 1923, the Radio Club of Bombay broadcast its first programme. Lord Irwin, then Viceroy of India, inaugurated the Indian Broadcast Company (IBC) in Bombay..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   February 12

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National Productivity Day is celebrated annually on February 12, under the guidance of the National Productivity Council (NPC). Established in 1958 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, NPC is an autonomous organization that aims to promote India’s productivity culture.

National Productivity Day is part of a week-long event, taking place from February 12 to 18.

The National Productivity Day and Week aim to raise awareness about the importance of productivity, innovation, and efficiency. This day raises awareness that productivity is not just about boosting output but is a comprehensive concept that takes into account environmental concerns, human resource development, and quality.

The NPC aims to educate people through lectures, workshops, events, seminars, and campaigns, to increase productivity and lead to a more developed and prosperous India.

National Productivity Day 2023 Theme : This year’s National Productivity Day theme is “Productivity, Green Growth, and Sustainability: Celebrating India’s G20 Presidency.” The National Productivity Council on its official website has mentioned that the celebration of National Productivity Week is going to take place from February 12 to 18, under their guidance.

National Productivity Day History : The National Productivity Council is an autonomous organization that was established in 1958 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Along with promoting the significance of productivity, innovation, and efficiency, National Productivity Day also celebrates the formation of the NPC. It is the aim of this autonomous body as a national institution to promote India’s productivity culture.

National Productivity Day Significance : National Productivity Day and National Productivity Week are commemorated with the aim of promoting the significance of productivity, innovation, and efficiency. This event is also marked to raise awareness of the importance of improving the quality, competitiveness, and efficiency of all aspects of the Indian economy.

National Productivity Council (NPC) Aim : To help India emerge as a world leader. The event aspires to portray productivity not just as a means of boosting output but as a comprehensive concept that takes into account environmental concerns, human resource development, and quality. NPC also focuses on emphasizing the importance of productivity as an all-encompassing notion.

National Productivity Week Aim : To educate people about the need for utilizing productivity tools, improving procedures by incorporating current themes, and promoting productivity, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness...

Source : News18

Correct Answer :   February 11

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World Unani Day is observed on February 11 every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of social reformer and renowned Unani scholar Hakim Ajmal Khan, widely regarded as the pioneer of Unani medicine in India.

Hakim Ajmal Khan, who was born on February 11, 1868, was an educator, a Unani physician, and the founder of scientific study in the Unani system of medicine.

The day commemorates Hakim Ajmal Khan’s contribution to the growth of Unani medicine in India and throughout the world. World Unani Day honours the illustrious scholar while raising public awareness of the use of Unani remedies in healthcare.

World Unani Day 2023 Theme : On February 10 and 11, the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine, Ministry of AYUSH, will host an international conference on Unani medicine in a hybrid virtual mode with the theme “Unani Medicine for Public Health."

World Unani Day History and Significance :  The establishment of the Unani medical system in India was significantly shaped by Hakim Ajmal Khan. He had a keen interest in the growth and advancement of the Unani system of medicine and established three significant institutions, including the Central College in Delhi, the Hindustani Dawakhana, and the Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College, also known as Tibbia College, located in Karol Bagh, Delhi.

These institutions promoted the study and practice in the area and prevented the extinction of the Unani System of Medicine in India. The Ministry of AYUSH, in 2017 announced that his birthday to be World Unani Day in honour of his efforts.

In 2017, Hyderabad’s Central Research Institute of Unani Medicine celebrated the first World Unani Day (CRIUM). The celebration featured a CCRUM (Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine) Awards ceremony and a two-day National Seminar on Skin Diseases and Cosmetology in Unani Medicine.

The concept of AYUSH awards in several categories for the Unani system of medicine was also launched in 2018 by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM). Researchers and specialists join together through conferences held on World Unani Day to encourage the general public to also opt for Unani medicine and guide them towards good health...

Source : News18

Correct Answer :   12 States and 1 Union Territorie (13)

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President of India Droupadi Murmu appointed 13 new Governors while accepting the resignations of Bhagat Singh Koshyari as Governor of Maharashtra and of Radha Krishnan Mathur as Lt. Governor of Ladakh on 12 February 2023.

Following is the complete list of new governors who have been appointed. These appointments will take effect from the dates they assume charge of their respective offices :

The fresh appointments :

Correct Answer :   Nikos Christodoulides

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In Cyprus, former Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides to be the country's next president. Mr. Christodoulides won the tight vote over seasoned diplomat Andreas Mavroyiannis 12th Feruary 2023.

* According to the official results, Mr. Christodoulides' led with nearly 52 percent of the votes, meanwhile, Mr. Mavroyiannis scored 48 percent votes.

* Major issues of concern for voters have been the cost of living crisis, irregular immigration and the Cyprus dispute involving the Turkish-occupied north of the island.

* Mr. Christodoulides was expelled from the ruling DISY party after announcing his candidacy and ran as an independent.

* In the first round of voting last week, he was in the lead with 32.04 percent of the vote.

* He was appointed government spokesman in 2014 and foreign minister in 2018. Mr. Christodoulides has the support of the Democratic Party, the Movement for Social Democracy and the Democratic Alignment...

Source : AIR