Correct Answer :   Bengaluru

---

Kambala, the popular buffalo racing contest native to the coastal Karnataka region, is all set to captivate the urban landscape of Bengaluru this weekend.

The traditional folk sport, usually held in the aftermath of the southwest monsoon, will unfold its excitement at the iconic Palace Grounds on November 25 and 26, 2023.

Organized by Tulukoota Bengaluru, this marks the first time Kambala has found a venue in the heart of Bengaluru.


Coastal Karnataka’s Finest Teams Converge :

* Buffalo racing teams from the coastal Karnataka region are gearing up to participate in this urban edition of Kambala.
* The event promises to bring the vibrant spirit of this traditional sport to the bustling cityscape of Bengaluru, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity.


Trial Runs Set the Stage :

* In anticipation of the Kambala races, trial runs were conducted in the slushy water tracks laid at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru.
* The excitement is palpable as the city gets ready to witness the thrilling spectacle of buffalo racing right in its midst.

Unveiling the Etymology of Kambala: From Muddy Fields to Racing Poles :

* The term “Kambala” finds its roots in ‘kampa-kala,’ with ‘kampa’ linked to a slushy, muddy field.
* The Dravidian origin of “Kampa” is the combination of ‘kan’ and ‘pa,’ and ‘kala‘ denotes the field where the event takes place.
* Another contemporary interpretation of Kambala suggests a connection to ‘Kamba,’ a pole utilized for water spurt during the buffalo pairs’ race.


Kambala: Racing Through Tradition and Modern Rewards :

* Kambala is a sport where buffaloes are driven through a slushy paddy field by a whip-wielding farmer.
* In its traditional form, Kambala was non-competitive, with pairs running one by one. However, modern Kambala involves contests between two pairs of buffaloes.
* In certain villages like Vandaro and Choradi, there’s a ritualistic element, where farmers race their buffaloes to express gratitude for protecting them from diseases.


Evolution of Rewards in Kambala: From Coconuts to Gold Coins :

* In the historical context, the victorious buffalo pair was rewarded with coconuts and bananas.
* Presently, winning owners receive valuable rewards such as gold and silver coins, with some committees even presenting an eight-gram gold coin to the champion. Additionally, cash prizes are awarded in certain competitions.


Kambala’s Debut in Bengaluru: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity :

* With the fusion of tradition and modernity, Kambala’s debut in Bengaluru promises an exhilarating experience for both enthusiasts and curious onlookers.
* As the city gears up for this cultural extravaganza, the buffalo races are poised to leave an indelible mark on the vibrant tapestry of Bengaluru’s events calendar..


Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   November 24

---

In the annals of Indian history, the sacrifice and valor of individuals who stood against oppression and defended their religious beliefs resonate as timeless tales of inspiration.

* Among these luminaries is Guru Tegh Bahadur Singh, the 9th Guru of the Sikhs, whose martyrdom day is commemorated on November 24.

* Born on 21st April 1621, in Amritsar to Mata Nanaki and Guru Hargobind, Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life is a testament to courage, conviction and the unwavering commitment to protect the Sikh faith.


Early Years of Guru Tegh Bahadur

In his early years, Guru Tegh Bahadur, then known as Tyagamal, displayed remarkable courage. At the age of 13, he accompanied his father Guru Hargobind Sahib to Kiratpur, where they faced a Mughal army in Palahi village near Phagwara. In this skirmish, the young Teg demonstrated extraordinary bravery, earning him the name Teg Bahadur, which means ‘brave sword.’ This incident marked the beginning of a journey that would lead him to the throne as the 9th Guru of the Sikhs.


Ascension to Guruhood :

After the death of the eighth Guru, Harkrishna Sahib Ji, in March 1665, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib ascended to the throne of the Guru in Amritsar. Prior to this, he married Bibi Gujri in Kartarpur near Jalandhar and settled in Bakala near Amritsar. Guru Tegh Bahadur spent years in intense meditation and penance in Baba Bakala Nagar, shaping his spiritual leadership.

The Chadar of Hind :

One of the defining moments in Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life came when he faced the oppressive policies of the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. Refusing to succumb to forced conversion, Guru Tegh Bahadur stood as a symbol of resistance against religious tyranny. His unwavering commitment to Sikh principles led to a confrontation with Aurangzeb, who, in 1675, ordered to beheading of Guru Tegh Bahadur in Chandni Chowk, Delhi.


The Ultimate Sacrifice :

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s refusal to convert to Islam resulted in his beheading on November 24, 1675. Despite the brutality of Aurangzeb’s regime, Guru Tegh Bahadur remained steadfast in his faith, choosing martyrdom over compromising the principles of Sikhism. The location of his execution is now marked by Gurudwara Sheesh Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, a poignant reminder of his sacrifice.


Legacy and Commemoration :

The legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur Singh extends beyond his martyrdom. His selfless sacrifice became a cornerstone of Sikh identity and resilience. Gurudwara Sheesh Ganj Sahib stands as a testimony to his courage, while the city of Anandpur Sahib witnessed the last rites of his beheaded head, performed by his son, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. November 24 is annually observed as a day of remembrance and reflection on the invaluable contribution of Guru Tegh Bahadur Singh to the Sikh faith and the broader tapestry of Indian history.


Motivational Quotes by 9th Guru – Guru Tegh Bahadur :

* If you do not sing the praises of the Lord, your life is rendered useless. Says Nanak, mediate, vibrate upon the Lord; immerse your mind in Him, like the fish in the water.
* Give up your head, but forsake not those whom you have undertaken to protect. Sacrifice your life, but relinquish not your faith.
* The true realization of the actual nature of his material world, its perishable, transitory and illusory aspects best dawns on a person in suffering.
* He has given you your body and wealth, but you are not in love with him. Says Nanak, you are insane! Why do you now shake and tremble so helplessly?
* By singing his praises thy impurity will removed and the poison of egoism spread all over will be destroyed.

Correct Answer :   Telangana

---

Telangana has unveiled the world’s first 3D-printed temple, a groundbreaking structure situated in Burugupally, Siddipet district. This innovative construction, achieved through a three-month 3D printing process, marks a significant technological milestone.


Temple Design and Construction :

The temple spans 4,000 square feet and stands at a height of 35.5 feet. It comprises three distinct parts, each dedicated to a different deity:

The sanctums were meticulously crafted using an in-house system, along with materials and software developed locally.


Traditional and Futuristic Elements :

* While the sanctums showcase the ingenuity of 3D printing technology, the remaining elements of the temple, such as pillars, slabs, and flooring, were constructed using traditional building techniques. This harmonious blend of traditional and futuristic approaches reflects the temple’s unique identity.

Significance and Milestones :

* The pioneering temple not only meets the structural prerequisites and design principles inherent in temple architecture but also addresses the intricacies of 3D printing requirements. It successfully navigates the challenges associated with in-situ construction, marking a significant milestone in the convergence of ancient traditions and futuristic technology.

* The successful construction of this 3D-printed temple opens up new possibilities for the future of architecture and construction. It demonstrates the potential of 3D printing to create complex and intricate structures while also preserving traditional craftsmanship and artistic expression.


Additional Details :

The temple is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its designers and builders. It represents a significant step forward in the evolution of architecture and construction, and it is sure to inspire new generations of architects and engineers..


Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Chandra

---

The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode has achieved a significant milestone in the field of agriculture with the successful development of a groundbreaking black pepper variety named ‘IISR Chandra.’

This achievement is the culmination of an innovative research and development process that deviates from conventional methods, providing the agricultural sector with a potential game-changer.


Unveiling IISR Chandra :

The research team at IISR took a unique approach in developing ‘IISR Chandra’ by crossing two distinct pepper varieties – Cholamundi and Thommankodi. The resulting hybrid was then back-crossed with Thommankodi to ensure the retention of all desired parental traits. This novel approach has given rise to a high-yielding black pepper variety that possesses unparalleled potential in both quality and yield.


Key Traits of IISR Chandra :

‘IISR Chandra’ boasts distinctive traits that set it apart from existing varieties. With its long spike, compact setting and bold berries, this variety has the potential to yield an impressive 7.5 kg of pepper per vine. Additionally, its optimal spike intensity surpasses that of any currently cultivated black pepper varieties, making it an attractive choice for farmers.

Game-Changer for the Black Pepper Economy :

Dinesh, the Director of IISR, expressed confidence that ‘IISR Chandra’ would be a game-changer for the black pepper economy in India. Not only does it offer superior quality and yield, but it also has the capability to outperform and potentially replace some of the reigning black pepper varieties currently in cultivation.


Whole Genome Sequencing :

As part of the comprehensive research and development process, the Institute completed the whole genome sequencing of ‘IISR Chandra.’ This detailed genetic mapping provides valuable insights into the variety’s characteristics and enhances our understanding of its potential for further improvements and applications.


Commercialization and Licensing :

In a move to share the benefits of this groundbreaking variety, IISR officials announced plans to extend licenses for commercial production to interested individuals, farmers and nurseries. Eight such license agreements for commercial production are set to be executed on November 22 at the institute, marking a pivotal moment in the practical application of this innovative agricultural development.

Correct Answer :   Patna High Court

---

Justice Bibek Chaudhary has taken oath as judge of Patna High Court.

Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar administered the oath of office in the presence of High Court judges at Raj Bhavan.

Before assuming his current assignment, Justice Chaudhary was serving as a judge in the Calcutta High Court.

Correct Answer :   United Arab Emirates

---

The United Arab Emirates has inaugurated the world's largest single-site solar power plant ahead of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).

The 2-gigawatt Al Dhafra Solar Photovoltaic Independent Power Project (IPP) is located 35 kilometers from Abu Dhabi city and will generate enough electricity to power almost 200,000 homes. The plant is expected to displace 2.4 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually

The project was inaugurated by Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and in the presence of Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.

“As the UAE prepares to host COP28, this pioneering project reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to raising its share of clean energy, reducing its carbon emissions and supporting the global efforts on climate action,” said Sheikh Hazza.

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber,COP28 President-Designate,  Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar, and , emphasized the significance of Al Dhafra as a symbol of progress in solar power efficiency, innovation, and cost competitiveness.

The project was developed by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and its partners Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), EDF Renewables and JinkoPower. It was procured by Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC).The plant uses almost 4 million solar panels which deploy innovative bi-facial technology, ensuring sunlight is captured on both sides of the panels to maximize yield.

The project broke records in terms of cost for utility-scale solar projects. Initially the project led to one of the most competitive tariffs for solar power set at AED 4.97 fils/kWh (USD 1.35 cents/kWh), which upon financial close, was further improved to AED 4.85 fils/kWh (US$ 1.32 cents/kWh).

The inauguration of Al Dhafra Solar PV is a key step in the UAE's transition to clean energy. .As the countdown to COP28 continues, leaders reiterated their commitment to tripling renewables capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030, with Al Dhafra serving as a model for global ambition in clean energy initiatives. The project also aligns with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 goal, reinforcing its leadership in solar energy production on a per capita basis. The project is also a testament to the UAE's commitment to hosting a successful COP28. The country will host the United Nations Climate Change Conference from November 30th to December 12 this year..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

---

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the ‘Mirabai Janmotsav’ celebrations, being organised to mark the 525th birth anniversary of Sant Mirabai, in Mathura around 4:30 pm on Thursday (23rd Nov 2023).

* During the festival, Prime Minister Modi will participate in cultural programmes and release a stamp and a coin in honour of Mirabai, officials said.

* The event would mark year-long programmes that are being planned in the memory of Mirabai, they said.

* Earlier, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had reviewed the preparations for the event in Mathura.

* The Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad and the UP Tourism Department are organising Braj Raj Utsav at the Railway Ground from November 14 to 27, and as part of this event, the birth anniversary of Saint Meerabai is also being celebrated.

* According to sources said, BJP’s Mathura MP Hema Malini is likely to present a programme at the event attended by Prime Minister Modi..


Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   Uttar Pradesh

---

The government of Uttar Pradesh has launched a Safe City Project to enhance the safety of girls and women in the state. Through the Safe City Project, the government will ensure surveillance through CCTV at the entry and exit points of 17 municipal corporations along with government and non-government schools, madrassas, colleges and universities in Gautam Buddha Nagar.

The private coaching institutes in these cities are closely monitored to avoid the gathering of troublemakers and reduce the cases of molestation. The government has also issued guidelines for the safety of girls in private coaching institutes prohibiting late evening classes, the government place release stated.

In the initial phases, the government has identified 17 municipal corporations and over 2500 schools of Gautam Buddha Nagar for the installation of CCTV cameras. Out of these, CCTVs are installed in 1692 schools, while the process of installation in the remaining schools is going on a war footing.

There are around 26,568 CCTVs installed in these institutions, including 68 recognised government schools, 646 aided schools and 1786 unaided schools. CCTVs have been installed in these schools' classrooms, corridors, and entry and exit games.

Under the Safe City Project, 5505 cameras were installed in 162 higher educational institutions, including 21 in state degree or PG colleges, 85 in aided degree/PG colleges, 49 in unaided degree/PG colleges and 7 in state universities.

The regional office of Lucknow and colleges do not come under the Safe City Project.

Along with the above-mentioned institutes, CCTV cameras will also be installed in 17 municipal corporations and 606 in the coaching institutes of Gautam Buddha Nagar. These include 448 coaching institutes of 17 Municipal Corporations and 158 coaching institutes of Gautam Budha Nagar.

Around 866 cameras have already been installed in 418 coaching institutes, the process of installing cameras in the remaining 188 coaching institutes is going on. The Urban Development Department will integrate the CCTV cameras with the control room of the city..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Shimla

---

Himachal Pradesh Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday (23 November 2023) inaugurated the Vidhya Samiksha Kendra in Shimla, a data repository that will have data from all schemes run by the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, Sukhu said that to make the education system of the state technology and data-based, Vidhya Samiksha Kendra (VSK), will help to through the SwiftChat platform which includes multiple AI chatbots.

"AI chatbots will enable teachers to provide personalized learning to students and administrators to make data-driven decisions," he said, adding that additionally, VSK will present dashboards and reports for the district, block, and individual school.

He further said that the VSK tracks student progress, teacher training, and school performance.

"It Will provide real-time data with information. Teachers and administrators change their teaching strategies based on this data and ensure that the teacher gives adequate attention to each student and focus so as to improve their education outcomes," he added.

The Chief Minister said that the Vidhya Samiksha Kendra of Himachal Pradesh is not just a data centre, it is a foundation for far-reaching changes in the education world ranging from Daily Attendance to periodic assessment, from digital home learning to remedial teaching, and from field monitoring to holistic Swiftchat is making tasks like creating report cards easier.

"The education department of Himachal Pradesh has incorporated the Ed-Tech company ConveGenius to establish Vidya Samiksha Kendra in the state," he added.

Earlier in July, the Centre directed the States and UTs to establish a Central system (Vidya Samiksha Kendra) at the state level for tracking student enrolment, progress in their learning levels, textbook delivery, support required by teachers and schools, etc..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Lakshmi Ramakrishna Srinivas

---

Lakshmi Ramakrishna Srinivas, one of the pioneers in the field of banking, has been appointed as Additional Director of South Indian Bank.

She has been appointed as a non-executive independent director of the bank for a period of three years from Nov. 20, 2023.

Lakshmi has 38 years of experience in the banking sector. She was earlier the Chief General Manager of State Bank of India, the South Indian Bank said here in a statement.

She has held many senior positions including the Directorship of State Bank Staff College, the statement added..

Source : BG Prime