Correct Answer :   IIT Guwahati

---

In a collaborative effort between the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup Election District and the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, a groundbreaking 3D-printed dummy ballot unit has been unveiled. The initiative aims to enhance voter awareness and engagement, particularly among new voters and senior citizens, by providing a practical experience of the voting process.

Objective of the Dummy Ballot Unit :

The objective behind the development of the 3D-printed dummy ballot unit is to educate citizens about the complexities of voting, alleviate fears or concerns, and encourage greater voter turnout. By incorporating features such as sound and light indicators, the unit provides an interactive experience, boosting confidence in the electoral process.

Innovative Design and Materials :

Utilizing cutting-edge 3D printing technology and eco-friendly PLA material derived from corn starch, researchers at IIT Guwahati have crafted a sustainable and reusable device. Its design not only ensures environmental responsibility but also facilitates practical learning about voting procedures.

Endorsement and Impact :

Smt. Keerthi Jalli, Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup, Guwahati, Assam, lauded the initiative for its potential to familiarize individuals with the voting process and increase democratic participation. Prof. Ajeet Kumar of IIT Guwahati highlighted the unit’s significance in voter education, stressing its interactive features and biodegradable nature.

SVEEP: Empowering Voter Education :

The partnership between SVEEP and IIT Guwahati signifies a milestone in voter education initiatives. SVEEP, a programme by the Election Commission of India, aims to spread awareness about the electoral process through multi-approach strategies tailored to diverse socio-economic and cultural profiles. Through various communication mediums, including print, electronic, and social media, SVEEP endeavors to promote informed participation in elections.

Correct Answer :   April 30th

---

Ayushman Bharat Diwas is celebrated annually on April 30th to raise awareness about the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and its goals. This year, it falls on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The day was established by the government to highlight the scheme’s objective of providing better access to affordable and quality healthcare services, especially for the underprivileged.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) :

Launched in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PM-JAY) is a healthcare scheme that offers free health insurance of Rs. 5 lakh to more than 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families every year. The scheme covers three days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days of post-hospitalization care, ensuring comprehensive support for patients.

Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage :

Under the PM-JAY scheme, eligible patients can receive first-rate medical care at thousands of government and private hospitals across the country. The scheme covers not only hospitalization expenses but also associated fees, such as overtime charges. While the central government fully funds the PM-JAY scheme, its implementation cost is shared between the central and state governments.

Empowering States and Creating Jobs :

The state governments have the right to provide cashless hospitalization to the beneficiaries of the PM-JAY scheme. Additionally, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has created a new job category called Ayushman Mitra, providing employment opportunities for young Indian citizens who are appointed by hospitals to assist beneficiaries.

Spreading Awareness and Ensuring Access :

The significance of Ayushman Bharat Diwas lies in its efforts to highlight the objectives of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and educate people about the advantages of this healthcare scheme. By celebrating this day, the government aims to ensure that eligible beneficiaries can avail of medical services up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year in any government-empaneled hospital across the country.

To fully benefit from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, beneficiaries must have comprehensive health insurance coverage. Those without insurance can explore options like Bajaj Markets, which offer advantages such as hassle-free renewal, cashless claim settlement, and reinstatement benefits.

Correct Answer :   Jalgaon

---

India is a country of diverse cultures, traditions, beliefs, religions, knowledge, and languages, each city having its own unique characteristics. Some cities are renowned for their cuisine, while others are known for their fashion.

Additionally, many cities host local festivals that are celebrated nationwide, contributing to their distinctiveness and fostering the country’s identity on a global scale. In this series, we’ll delve into another city of India known by its nickname, shedding light on its significance.

Which Indian City is Known as “Banana City”?

Jalgaon, a city in Maharashtra, India, is famously known as the “Banana City.” It has earned this nickname due to its significant banana production, with an impressive annual yield of 70 tons per hectare. Jalgaon’s favorable geographical location, coupled with innovative agricultural techniques like drip irrigation, facilitates maximum banana cultivation. As a result, Jalgaon stands out as the leading producer of bananas in India.

Why is Jalgaon Known as the “Banana City”?

Jalgaon, situated in the western state of Maharashtra, India, is often referred to as the “Banana City.” It has earned this moniker due to its significant banana production. Every year, Jalgaon produces a staggering 70 tons of bananas per hectare, making it a major contributor to India’s banana supply.

Factors Behind High Banana Cultivation in Jalgaon :

Jalgaon’s geographical location in the Western Ghats, approximately 300 kilometers away, contributes to its dry climate. However, banana cultivation requires a humid environment. Despite this, Jalgaon utilizes drip irrigation techniques for banana farming. Additionally, it plants 1500 to 1600 banana plants per acre.

States Leading in Banana Cultivation :

Several states in India are renowned for banana cultivation, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Each of these states contributes significantly to India’s banana production, with Maharashtra being a prominent player.

Correct Answer :   India Today

---

India Today Group's AI news anchor, Sana, has won the International News Media Association (INMA)'s 2024 Global Media Award for AI-led newsroom transformation.

* India Today Group has been selected as the best in South Asia for 'AI-led newsroom transformation', and the company's human-collaborative AI anchor, Sana, won first place among national brands for the 'best use of AI in customer-facing products'.

* “The 2024 Global Media Awards really highlighted how news media companies must think beyond the traditional to connect with their readers in this era of disruption and news avoidance. Unsurprisingly, this class of winning entries features some of the most innovative we’ve seen," executive director and CEO of INMA, Earl J Wilkinson, noted.

* The India Today Group introduced India’s First AI Anchor, Sana, in March 2023.

* "Sana boasts a diverse set of capabilities, excelling in multilingual communication with virtually no learning curve. Notably, it seamlessly transitions across a spectrum of topics and formats without succumbing to fatigue, thus addressing the dynamic demands of our newsroom," according to a statement by the India Today Group.

* "In an impressively brief timeframe, the AI Anchor Sana has earned widespread media acclaim and has become a catalyst for increased audience engagement and content differentiation, solidifying its position as a revolutionary force in the media landscape," the company spokesperson said.

* The 2024 Global Media Awards saw 771 multi-platform entries from 245 market-leading news media brands in 43 countries, competing in different sections such as innovation and best practices in news brands, optimising the use of media features, subscriptions, product, advertising, and commerce, Artificial Intelligence, and newsroom innovation.

* The awards ceremony was held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Krishna Ella

---

The Indian Vaccine Manufacturers Association (IVMA) has announced the appointment of Krishna Ella, co-founder and executive chairman of Bharat Biotech, as its new president for the next two years, effective April 2024. Ella will take over the presidency from Adar C. Poonawala, who held the position from 2019 to March 2024.

Leadership Roles and Priorities :

For the current two-year term, the IVMA has appointed the following key roles :

Ensuring Equitable Access to Vaccines :

* In a statement, Ella emphasized the vital role of vaccines in global health and the IVMA’s mission to ensure that every individual, regardless of their location, has access to life-saving immunizations. He highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and equity as the foundations of their collective vision.

* “I am pleased to serve IVMA along with its distinguished members and contribute to its vision to protect and enhance public health in India and the developing world,” Ella said.

Supporting Africa’s Public Health Vision :

* Ella urged IVMA members to support African nations’ public health vision and stressed the need to formulate policies and regulations in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). This, he believes, will help the industry become globally competitive and fortify India’s vision to boost the level playing field worldwide in preventive care.

Industry Appreciation and IVMA’s Mission :

* Expressing confidence in Ella’s leadership, Dr. Harshavardhan stated, “Dr. Ella’s expertise and entrepreneurial spirit are exactly what the vaccine industry needs to navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century.”

* The IVMA’s mission is to bring to the fore the Indian private sector human vaccine manufacturers’ concerns related to the progress and profitability of the industry. It also aims to streamline regulatory pathways and matters related to audits and inspections in consultations with the national Central Drugs Standard and Control Organisation.

Correct Answer :   April 30th

---

International Jazz Day, celebrated annually on April 30th, is a global event that celebrates the power of jazz to bring people together and promote peace, unity, and intercultural dialogue. This year marks a significant milestone as the city of Tangier, Morocco becomes the first African host city for the global celebration.

Maiden Voyage to Africa :

The 2024 edition of International Jazz Day will be celebrated in more than 190 countries, with the city of Tangier serving as the Global Host. This marks the first time a city on the African continent has hosted the event, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and jazz traditions of the region.

Tangier, a melting pot of cultural expressions, is located at the crossroads of Europe and Africa. The city boasts a long, rich history of jazz and is known for its jazz heritage, having hosted numerous world-renowned jazz artists over the years, including Josephine Baker, Ornette Coleman, Archie Shepp, Herbie Mann, and the jazz master pianist Randy Weston.

Celebrating Jazz Heritage :

The four-day celebration, from April 27-30, emphasizes Tangier’s jazz heritage and highlights the cultural and artistic ties between people in Morocco, Europe, and Africa. The event includes a series of education programs, events for students of all ages, and conversations about the history of jazz and its impact on Tangier.

The culminating All-Star Global Concert will take place at the new Palace of Arts and Culture of Tangier and will be broadcast via YouTube, Facebook, the United Nations, and UNESCO to millions of viewers worldwide.

Music of Improvisation and Collective Creation :

International Jazz Day raises awareness in the international community of the virtues of jazz as a force for peace, unity, dialogue, and enhanced cooperation among people, as well as an educational tool. Many governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and private citizens embrace the opportunity to foster greater appreciation for jazz and its contribution to building more inclusive societies.

Jazz is celebrated for its ability to break down barriers, create opportunities for mutual understanding and tolerance, promote freedom of expression, reduce tensions between individuals and communities, foster gender equality, reinforce the role of youth in social change, encourage artistic innovation and improvisation, and stimulate intercultural dialogue.

Correct Answer :   April 29th

---

International Dance Day, celebrated annually on April 29th, stands as a global tribute to the art of dance. Conceived by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), an essential partner of UNESCO in the realm of performing arts, this day commemorates the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), revered as the progenitor of modern ballet.

Fostering Participation and Enlightenment :

The essence of International Dance Day lies in fostering participation and enlightenment in dance through a myriad of events and festivals held worldwide on this significant date. These celebrations aim to raise awareness about the importance of dance as an art form and promote its cultural significance across diverse communities.

A Lasting Legacy :

Jean-Georges Noverre’s contributions to the world of dance are significant, as he distinguished classical or romantic ballet, shaping its contemporary form. By commemorating his birth, International Dance Day honors his lasting legacy and the profound impact he had on the evolution of ballet.

A Global Movement :

Since its inception in 1982, International Dance Day has grown into a global movement, with dance communities, schools, companies, and organizations around the world organizing performances, workshops, dance festivals, lectures, and various other activities. These events not only showcase the artistry and cultural diversity of dance but also highlight its transformative power as a universal language of expression.

A Message of Unity and Understanding :

Each year, the ITI selects a prominent figure from the international dance community to pen a message for International Dance Day. This message, distributed worldwide, reflects on the importance of dance in society, its role in cultural exchange, and the value of artistic expression through movement. It serves as a unifying call to celebrate the diversity and richness of dance traditions while fostering understanding and dialogue across borders.

Advocating for Dance Education and Wellness :

Beyond its artistic merits, International Dance Day serves as a platform to advocate for the importance of dance in education, health, and social cohesion. It highlights the numerous benefits of dance, such as improving physical and mental well-being, fostering creativity, and promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity.

Correct Answer :   Iran

---

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has introduced a new kamikaze drone resembling Russia’s Lancet drone. This drone, yet to be named publicly, is designed for targeted attacks, akin to those witnessed in the Ukraine conflict.

Specifications :

The Iranian drone, akin to the Lancet, boasts flight durations of 30 to 60 minutes and can carry payloads ranging from 3 to 6 kg, covering distances of up to 40 km. Equipped with electro-optical systems and a built-in warhead, it’s optimized for combating ambushes.

Iran’s Drone Development :

In recent years, the IRGC has heavily invested in munitions development, notably producing the Shahed-131/136 kamikaze drones, utilized by Russian forces in Ukraine. The unveiling coincided with a cargo flight from Iran to Russia, transporting components for the drone industry.

Response to Sanctions :

Following US, UK, and Canadian sanctions targeting Iran’s drone production and export endeavors, Iran denounced the measures. Iranian officials, including Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Nasser Kanaani, emphasized their nation’s right to defend itself and condemned perceived hostile actions, citing recent strikes on Iranian targets.

Correct Answer :   Asansol

---

In the intricate fabric of Indian culture and heritage, cities serve as vibrant threads, each weaving a unique narrative of history, tradition, and diversity. Among these, there exists a city revered for its ethos of harmony and unity – a place where the threads of different communities intertwine seamlessly, forming a tapestry of brotherhood and solidarity. This city, nestled in the heart of India, is none other than Hyderabad, often hailed as the “City of Brotherhood.”

Which Indian City is Known as “City of Brotherhood”?

Asansol, a city in the West Bengal state of India, is known as the “City of Brotherhood.” This title reflects the city’s exceptional cultural diversity and the harmonious coexistence of people from various religious and cultural backgrounds. Asansol’s residents, regardless of their differences, live together peacefully, celebrating diversity and fostering unity in the community.

Why is Asansol Known as “City of Brotherhood”?

The city of Asansol is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and religions. People from various regions, including West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand, call Asansol their home. Despite belonging to different religions such as Christianity, Sikhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism, the residents of Asansol live together in peace and unity. This inclusive spirit has earned Asansol the title of the “City of Brotherhood.”

Culinary Delights of Asansol :

Asansol is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings. Street food delights like “puchka” (known as golgappa in North India) are a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Additionally, mouthwatering dishes such as rolls, chops, samosas, salami rolls, and “labela chicken” are famous delicacies that reflect the city’s vibrant food culture. After a day of exploration, tourists often indulge in these delectable treats to savor the essence of Asansol’s culinary heritage.

Key Attractions in City of Brotherhood :

Correct Answer :   Sunil Kumar Yadav

---

The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has welcomed a new addition to its leadership team. Sunil Kumar Yadav, an officer from the Indian Revenue Service (IRS), has been appointed as the Director of the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.

Central Staffing Scheme Appointment :

The appointment of Sunil Kumar Yadav was made under the Central Staffing Scheme, as per an order issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT). The order specifies that Yadav’s tenure as Director of MoHUA will be for a period of five years from the date of assuming charge or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.

Immediate Relieving of Duties :

The DoPT order also directed that Yadav be immediately relieved from his current duties to enable him to take up his new role at the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs. This swift transition ensures a seamless integration of Yadav into his new responsibilities.

Strengthening Urban Development Initiatives :

The appointment of Sunil Kumar Yadav as Director of MoHUA is expected to contribute to the Ministry’s ongoing efforts in promoting sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life in cities across the country. With his expertise and experience, Yadav will play a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization.

Key Responsibilities :

As the Director of MoHUA, Sunil Kumar Yadav will be responsible for overseeing various aspects of urban development, including housing, urban planning, infrastructure development, and smart city initiatives. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring effective implementation of government programs and policies related to urban affairs.

Collaboration and Coordination :

The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs works closely with state governments, urban local bodies, and other stakeholders to drive urban transformation. Yadav’s appointment is expected to facilitate better coordination and collaboration among these entities, enabling more efficient and integrated urban development efforts.