Correct Answer :   30 November

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Every year on November 30, the world solemnly observes the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare. This day, designated by the United Nations, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating toll of chemical warfare on both troops and civilians. It reflects on the grim reality of conflict, honors the lives lost, and underscores the ongoing efforts to eliminate the use of chemical weapons.


History of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The historical journey towards mitigating the horrors of chemical warfare began in 1675 with a treaty signed by France and Germany, outlawing the use of poison bullets. Subsequent agreements, including the Brussels Convention of 1874 and the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907, aimed to restrict toxic weapons and dangerous gases in combat. A pivotal moment occurred in 1993 with the passage of the Chemical Weapons Convention, a global commitment to ending the use of chemical weapons.


Significance of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

In 2005, the United Nations officially declared November 30 as the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare. This designation acknowledges historical agreements, honors victims, and raises awareness about the ongoing threats posed by chemical weapons. The day emphasizes the necessity of upholding international agreements for lasting peace and security.


Objective of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The primary objective of this day is to honor and mourn the lives lost due to chemical warfare, whether military or civilian. It aims to raise global awareness about the ban on chemical weapons, highlighting the associated risks as Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs). Additionally, it underscores the importance of upholding international law to prevent similar atrocities.

Mission of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The heartfelt mission of the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare is to honor and remember those who succumbed to the brutality of war. It serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict, acknowledges progress in safeguarding future generations, and underscores the need to address unresolved issues surrounding chemical weapons.


How to Observe the Day :

This Day of Remembrance serves as a crucial platform for fostering a collective commitment to peace and eliminating the use of chemical weapons worldwide.

Correct Answer :   Nepal

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The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, took a bold step by explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. Nepal became the first South Asian country to formally register a case of same-sex marriage.

This event occurred in the Dordi Rural Municipality of Lamjung district in Western Nepal, where the union of trans-woman Maya Gurung, 35, and gay man Surendra Pandey, 27, was legally recognized.


Legal Progression for Same-Sex Marriage in Nepal :

In 2007, Nepal’s Supreme Court had already set the stage by allowing same-sex marriage, laying the foundation for the recent groundbreaking development. Fast forward to June 27, 2023, when the Supreme Court issued an interim order in response to a writ petition, temporarily legalizing same-sex marriage. This interim order marked a significant leap toward the official recognition of the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Nepal.


A Brief Setback :

Despite the Supreme Court’s interim order, the path to same-sex marriage faced a hurdle when, four months ago, the Kathmandu District Court rejected the marriage application of Surendra Pandey and Maya Gurung. The rejection was based on the absence of specific laws addressing same-sex marriage, underscoring the need for legislative support.

Maya and Surendra’s Resilience :

Surendra Pandey, a 27-year-old gay man from Nawalparasi district, and Maya Gurung, a 35-year-old trans-woman from Lamjung district, demonstrated resilience and commitment to their relationship. The couple, living together as husband and wife for the past six years, navigated societal challenges and sought approval from their families, marrying in the traditional manner.


Historic Significance for the Third Gender Community :

Sanjib Gurung (Pinky), president of the Blue Diamond Society, an organization advocating for the rights and welfare of sexual minorities in Nepal, expressed great pleasure at the historic development. Pinky emphasized that this achievement is not only a milestone for Nepal but for the entire South Asian region. The event sets a precedent for the recognition and validation of the third-gender community, providing hope and encouragement for others who have lived without their identities and rights.


Opening Doors for Legal Recognition :

The broader impact of this first same-sex marriage registration marks the beginning of a positive change for the third-gender community. Necessary laws will be formulated to grant automatic permanent recognition. This empowerment will encourage more individuals within the LGBTQ+ community to seek legal recognition for their unions.

Correct Answer :   Smriti Irani

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Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani launched (28th Nov 2023) the National Outreach Programme on Anganwadi Protocol for Divyang Children.

The Protocol embraces a Social Model for Divyangjan Inclusive Nutrition Care. It includes screening for early disability signs, inclusion in community events, and referral support through ASHA and ANM teams.

Aim : The aim of this protocol is to ensure overall improvement in children's wellbeing through early intervention, specialized support and services for infants and young children with disability, and educating and supporting families and communities to improve divyang children's participation.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Minister said, for the first time, the Anganwadi workers will help in the screening of children for identifying any kind of disabilities.

She informed that at least one lakh such children will be benefitted annually through this programme. She said, the government will make the child care socially acceptable and affordable..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   29th Nov 2023

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Henry Kissinger, former United States Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize winner, died aged 100 on Wednesday (29th Nov 2023), according to Kissinger Associates Inc. He was a diplomatic powerhouse whose service under two presidents left an indelible mark on US foreign policy.

Kissinger died at his home in Connecticut, Kissinger Associates said.

Kissinger had been active past his centenary (in May this year), attending meetings in the White House, publishing a book on leadership styles, and testifying before a Senate committee about the nuclear threat posed by North Korea. In July 2023, he made a surprise visit to Beijing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In the 1970s, he had a hand in many of the epoch-changing global events of the decade while serving as Secretary of State under Republican President Richard Nixon. The German-born Jewish refugee's efforts led to the diplomatic opening of China, landmark US-Soviet arms control talks, expanded ties between Israel and its Arab neighbours, and the Paris Peace Accords with North Vietnam.

Kissinger's reign as the prime architect of US foreign policy waned with Nixon's resignation in 1974. Still, he continued to be a diplomatic force under President Gerald Ford and to offer strong opinions throughout the rest of his life.

While many hailed Kissinger for his brilliance and broad experience, others branded him a war criminal for his support for anti-communist dictatorships, especially in Latin America. In his latter years, his travels were circumscribed by efforts by other nations to arrest or question him about past US foreign policy..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Nitin Gadkari

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Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has virtually inaugurated the luxury vessel ‘Classic Imperial’, the biggest of its kind tourist vessel in Kerala.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said cruise tourism has endless possibilities in the country, especially in Kerala. A serious intervention will be made to secure more support from the banking sector for the construction of vessels

The salient and pleasing ‘Classic Imperial’ reflects not only professional excellence and innovation but also the determination and dedication of the entrepreneur. The success story of Nishijith K John, an entrepreneur who made the vessel a reality, is an inspiring one. Union Minister also invited Nishijit to vessel construction ventures in Maharashtra.

Biggest of its kind :

* Classic Imperial is the biggest of its kind tourist vessel in Kerala which can accommodate up to 150 passengers at a time. The vessel is 50 meters long, 11 meters wide and 10 meters high with IRS (Indian Registrar of Shipping) safety certification.

* From wedding ceremonies to company conferences, the design of the Imperial Classic is done in a way that can host such many things. Centralized AC, DJ booths, open bath, dining area with state-of-the-art facilities, spacious hall, green room, lounge, etc. are part of the vessel..

Source : The Hindu Businessline

Correct Answer :   $4 Billion

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A strategic move by the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB), a major U.S. pension fund with assets surpassing $600 billion, is poised to bring substantial investments to Indian equity markets.

The FRTIB’s decision to transition from the MSCI EAFE index to the MSCI ACWI IMI ex USA ex China ex Hong index is expected to trigger a massive $28 billion global equity reshuffling, with India emerging as a key beneficiary.



U.S. Pension Fund’s Index Switch: Key Points


1. Inflow Projections :

* Analysts anticipate an influx of approximately $3.6 billion (Rs 30,000 crore) into Indian equities as a consequence of the FRTIB’s index switch.
* The move, set to commence in 2024, is likely to significantly alter the weightage of Indian shares, attracting fresh funds to the country.


2. Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board Overview :

* The FRTIB, holding assets of around $600 billion, commands a prominent position among U.S. pension funds.
* As of October 31, 2023, the FRTIB has invested approximately $68 billion in the International Stock Index Investment Fund.

3. Index Transition Details :

* The FRTIB’s shift from MSCI EAFE index to MSCI ACWI ex USA and ex China signifies a focus on emerging market equities excluding China and Russia, according to market analysts.

* The MSCI ACWI ex USA and ex China index encompasses a diverse mix of developed and emerging markets.


4. Impact on Indian Equities :

* The outgoing MSCI EAFE index, covering 21 developed markets across Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Far East, did not include India.

* With the transition, Indian equities are expected to gain prominence in the MSCI ACWI ex USA and ex China index, potentially attracting significant capital inflows.


5. Global Equity Reshuffling :

* The FRTIB’s decision is part of a broader global equity reshuffling amounting to $28 billion, signaling a shift in investment strategies on an international scale.


6. Foreign Portfolio Investment Context :

* Against the backdrop of the FRTIB’s move, foreign portfolio investors have already injected around ₹96,340 crore into Indian equities this calendar year.
* This influx has played a pivotal role in propelling benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty to record highs.

Correct Answer :   Uttar Pradesh

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has given approval for the establishment of the country’s inaugural Telecom Center of Excellence in Saharanpur.

The foundation stone for this groundbreaking initiative is set to be laid on December 5, 2023, marking a significant leap in telecom and technology innovation.

With the establishment of the Telecom Center of Excellence in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh takes a significant stride towards technological advancement, innovation, and self-reliance in the telecom sector.

This initiative holds the promise of not only transforming the technological landscape in the region but also contributing to India’s global standing in telecommunications and related industries.


Key Points of the Centre :

1. Research Focus on 5G and AI Integration : The Telecom Center of Excellence, to be situated at the Saharanpur campus of IIT Roorkee, will conduct research on integrating 5G with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and even delve into the realms of 6G technology.

2. Cost and Location : This state-of-the-art center will be constructed at a cost of Rs 30 crore, fostering innovation and growth in the telecommunications sector. The choice of the IIT Roorkee campus in Saharanpur is strategic, promising opportunities for employment for the youth of the state.

3. Objectives of the Center : The primary objective is to develop and promote cutting-edge technology in the telecom sector. Functioning as a hub for research and development, the center aims to assist experts from diverse fields and provide solutions through advanced technology.

4. Focus Areas : The center will prioritize the appropriate use of telecom in sectors such as e-learning, e-education, agriculture, and satellite centers. The integration of 5G with AI will be a key focus, opening avenues for the development of new technological devices.

5. Attracting Investments and Creating an Ecosystem : The link between 5G and AI is anticipated to attract investments from both domestic and international firms, establishing a robust ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship in Saharanpur.

6. Contribution to Technology Independence : The Telecom Center of Excellence is poised to contribute significantly to the development of 5G and 6G technologies, reducing India’s dependence on foreign technology and enhancing competitiveness in the global market.

7. Training and Skill Development : It will serve as a platform for training and skill development in the telecom sector, offering practical experience and specialized skills to students, research scholars, and industry professionals.

8. Research Sectors : Research within the center will span fundamental aspects of advanced wireless communication, 5G and wireless standards, millimeter-wave transceiver module design, and the application of AI/ML in wireless communication.

9. Expected Benefits : The center aims to yield benefits such as standard-required patents, last-mile access, broadband access to remote areas, cellular backhaul, disaster management solutions, network-enabled consumer electronics, defense and security applications, aerospace aviation/satellite communication, virtual reality, smart city initiatives, smart manufacturing, and e-healthcare.

Correct Answer :   Vijayawada

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The Vijayawada Railway Station has been awarded the prestigious platinum rating by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for its commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This is the highest recognition that can be bestowed by the IGBC, a leading certification body in India that promotes environmentally responsible construction.

The station’s previous gold rating, achieved in 2019, has been upgraded to platinum, reflecting the significant improvements made in various aspects of environmental performance. These improvements include:

* Water conservation : The station has implemented rainwater harvesting systems and water-efficient fixtures, resulting in a reduction of water consumption by 20%.

* Energy efficiency : Energy-efficient lighting systems and appliances have been installed, leading to a 15% decrease in energy consumption.

* Waste management : A comprehensive waste management system has been implemented, including segregation, recycling, and composting, resulting in a diversion of 80% of waste from landfills.

* Green landscaping : The station has adopted sustainable landscaping practices, including the use of native plants and rainwater harvesting systems, which have reduced water consumption for irrigation by 30%.


About the Platinum rating :

The platinum rating is a testament to the station’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its efforts to create a greener and more sustainable transportation hub. This recognition is also a source of pride for the South Central Railway (SCR) zone, as Vijayawada station is only the second station within the zone to achieve this prestigious rating. The station’s success in achieving platinum certification serves as an inspiration for other railway..

Correct Answer :   November 29

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Palestine Day 2023 : The United Nations observes the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on or around November 29 each year.

Palestinian Day is observed in accordance with the demands made by the General Assembly in resolutions 32/40 B from 2 December 1977, 34/65 D from 12 December 1979, and later resolutions approved under the agenda item "Question of Palestine."


Why is the International Day of Solidarity with Palestinians Observed?

The United Nations sponsors the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People as a day of global awareness. The United Nations offices in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi, as well as their main office in New York, host events for Palestinian Day. As Resolution 181's anniversary falls on November 29, this day is celebrated on that date. This plan was adopted in 1947 in an effort to divide the country into two states in order to end the Israel-Palestine conflict.

In resolution 60/37 from 1 December 2005, the Assembly asked the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Division for Palestinian Rights to continue organizing an annual exhibition on Palestinian rights or a cultural event in collaboration with the Permanent Observer Mission of Palestine to the UN as part of the observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on 29 November.

Significance :

The resolution on the commemoration of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People also calls on Member States to keep supporting and publicizing the Day of Solidarity with as many people as possible.

The General Assembly's definition of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including the right to self-determination free from outside interference, the right to national independence and sovereignty, and the right to reunification with their country, are all highlighted by the International Day of Solidarity every year. These rights include the right to return to one's home and proper citizenship.

Correct Answer :   Naveen Patnaik

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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Tuesday (28th Nov 2023) Launched the “AMA Bank” scheme, a historic initiative aimed at providing banking services through CSP Plus banking outlets in all unbanked Gram Panchayats (GPs) of Odisha. This visionary project, unveiled in the first phase, marks Odisha as the pioneer state in India to conceptualize and implement such a comprehensive scheme for financial inclusion.


CSP Plus Outlets: A New Model for Financial Inclusion :

* In the initial phase, 750 CSP Plus outlets, strategically spread across all 30 districts, were dedicated to the people of Odisha.
* Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed confidence that the innovative CSP Plus model would serve as a blueprint for the entire nation.
* This model aims to bridge the gap in financial services accessibility, particularly in rural areas where the geographical penetration of traditional banks has been a longstanding challenge.


The Imperative of Financial Inclusion :

* Financial inclusion stands as the bedrock for social and economic progress, ensuring the empowerment of people at all levels.
* The government recognizes that achieving inclusive growth is intrinsically tied to providing financial inclusion to every citizen.
* The challenges posed by a lack of brick-and-mortar bank branches in approximately 65% of gram panchayats necessitated a revolutionary approach to ensure the last-mile delivery of public services.

Challenges Addressed by AMA Bank :

* With a vast number of gram panchayats lacking a physical bank presence, accessing banking services and receiving Direct Benefit Transfers posed severe challenges for rural Odisha.
* Recognizing the urgency, the Odisha government collaborated with six public sector banks — SBI, PNB, UBI, UCO Bank, Bank of India, and Bank of Baroda — to launch the “Ama Bank” scheme.
* This initiative aims to establish low-cost brick-and-mortar micro bank branches that offer a comprehensive range of banking services.


Ama Bank’s Services and Impact :

* Ama Bank, situated between a Business Correspondent (BC) and a small bank branch, is designed to provide essential banking services such as deposits, advances, remittances, loans, Aadhar Enabled Payment System, credit linkage to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and coverage under social security schemes.
* Doorstep banking services for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and pregnant women will be a hallmark of this inclusive scheme, ensuring hassle-free access to Direct Benefit Transfers.


Timely Benefits for Rural Odisha :

* The implementation of Ama Bank is set to alleviate the challenges faced by the rural population. The scheme promises to be a catalyst for inclusive growth and empowerment for the people of Odisha.
* No longer will the poor have to travel long distances to access various government schemes, including Old Age Pension (OAP), KALIA MAMTA, or apply for small business loans.


Phased Implementation and Government Support :

* The ambitious scheme will be rolled out in a phased manner, with the goal of covering all 4373 unbanked Gram Panchayats within the current financial year (2023-24). A provision of Rs. 500 Crores has been earmarked to support the implementation of this transformative scheme.
* The Odisha government is taking substantial steps to ensure the success of Ama Bank by providing rent-free banking spaces for five years and bearing one-time expenses for fixed and recurring costs over a three-year period.