Correct Answer :   2047

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In line with its ambitions for a sustainable energy future, India aims to ramp up its nuclear power production significantly, targeting a capacity of 1 lakh MW by 2047. This objective, outlined in a report titled ‘Synchronising Energy Transitions Towards Possible Net Zero for India: Affordable and Clean Energy for All,’ highlights the nation’s commitment to expanding its nuclear energy sector.

Vision for Amrit Kaal: Department of Atomic Energy’s Strategy :

The Department of Atomic Energy is charting a vision document for ‘Amrit Kaal,’ outlining plans to achieve a nuclear capacity of approximately 100 GW by 2047. This roadmap involves leveraging various types of reactors and fostering international collaboration to meet energy demands sustainably.

Diverse Nuclear Technologies: Key Contributors to the Target :

Breeder reactors, light water reactors, and pressurized heavy water reactors constitute the backbone of India’s nuclear energy expansion strategy. Breeder reactors are poised to contribute 3 GW of nuclear power, while international cooperation will facilitate the deployment of 17.6 GW of light water reactors. Additionally, pressurized heavy water reactors are expected to contribute significantly, with an estimated 40-45 GW of power generation.

Recommendations for Energy Transition :

The report underscores the necessity of infrastructure development to support alternative energy sources and advocates for a flexible grid to accommodate renewable energy expansion. Additionally, it suggests exploring carbon dioxide removal technologies as a contingency plan if coal dependency persists, emphasizing the importance of mitigating carbon emissions in India’s energy transition.

Understanding Nuclear Energy: Types of Reactors :

Nuclear energy derives from atom cores through fission, a process of splitting nuclei. India predominantly utilizes pressurized water reactors (PWRs), boiling water reactors (BWRs), and pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) for power generation. Each reactor type offers distinct advantages and applications in India’s nuclear energy landscape.

Correct Answer :   Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe, along with Zambia and Malawi, has declared a state of disaster due to a severe drought sweeping across southern Africa. President Emmerson Mnangagwa cited an “El Nino-induced drought” causing below-normal rainfall, affecting over 80% of the country. This drought, exacerbated by climate change, has led to dire food shortages and humanitarian crises across the region.

President’s Declaration and Call for Aid :

President Mnangagwa made the emergency declaration, emphasizing the need for $2 billion in humanitarian aid to address the crisis. He stressed the urgency of securing food for all Zimbabweans, with approximately 2.7 million people at risk of hunger. The government appeals to UN agencies, local businesses, and faith organizations to contribute to humanitarian assistance efforts.

Impact on Population and Response Efforts :

Millions of people in Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia are in need of food assistance due to devastated harvests. With more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s population residing in rural areas, where they grow their food, the situation is dire. The UN’s World Food Programme has initiated a food assistance program, but aid may not reach all vulnerable populations.

Regional Crisis and Future Projections :

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) estimates that 20 million people in southern Africa require food relief, with needs extending into early 2025. Areas of highest concern include Zimbabwe, southern Malawi, parts of Mozambique, and southern Madagascar. The impact of El Nino is expected to prolong the crisis, highlighting the necessity of sustained international support and intervention.

Correct Answer :   4th April

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The United Nations Observes International Mine Awareness Day on 4th April. International Mine Awareness Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the serious impact of landmines and other explosive remnants of war on civilians. It also aims to promote the protection of persons with disabilities in conflict and peacebuilding settings.

International Mine Awareness Day theme for 2024 :

* The theme for International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action 2024 is ‘Protecting Lives, Building Peace’. This theme highlights the importance of mine action in saving lives and promoting peace in affected areas.

History of International Mine Awareness Day :

* The idea for a Mine Awareness Day was first proposed by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1980.
* The ICRC had been working to raise awareness of the dangers of landmines since the late 1970s.
* In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated 4th April as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
* The first International Mine Awareness Day was observed on 4th April 1983.

Significance of International Mine Awareness Day :

* More than 61 countries are still at risk of landmine contamination.
* Millions of people around the world are impacted by the effects of landmines, including injuries, deaths, and social and economic upheaval.
* The use of landmines has been linked to increased gender and maternal mortality, as well as reduced productivity and economic growth.

On this International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) calls for urgent action to address the global mine crisis. UNMAS urges Member States and stakeholders to:

* Take concrete measures to prevent and address explosive ordnance threats during and after armed conflicts.
* Support the victims of landmine violence.
* Ensure full access to assistance and protection for victims and persons with disabilities.

The article highlights the importance of International Mine Awareness Day, its history, and the significance of raising awareness about the dangers of landmines and explosive remnants of war. It also emphasizes the need for urgent action to address this global crisis and support the victims of landmine violence.

Correct Answer :   Rajiv Singhal

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Tata Group's global trading and distribution arm, Tata International on Monday (April 1, 2024) announced the appointment of Rajeev Singhal as its Managing Director (MD).

Singhal whose appointment to the new position is effective from April 1, 2024, succeeds Anand Sen, who superannuated on March 31, 2024, Tata International said in a statement.

Prior to this, Singhal was Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Tata International.

"We are confident that under his leadership, Tata International will scale to greater heights into its next phase of growth," said Noel N Tata, Chairman of Tata International.

Singhal brings over 36 years of experience to his new position, having transitioned from Tata Steel, where he served in various positions including Vice President for marketing and sales for flat products, according to the statement..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Uttar Pradesh

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In a significant milestone for agricultural recognition, the indigenous wheat variety from the Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh, locally known as Kathiya Gehu, has been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This is the first farm produce from Uttar Pradesh to receive this honor.

Uttar Pradesh Leads in GI Tags :

* Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leader in acquiring GI tags, becoming the first state to achieve a remarkable 69 GI tags. These tags highlight India’s rich cultural diversity and agricultural heritage.

GI Certification Process :

* The process for GI certification of Kathiya Gehu was initiated by the Khatiya Wheat Bangra Producer Company Limited, a local Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), with support from entities like NABARD in January 2022. After a two-year journey, the GI tag, bearing certificate number 585, was officially awarded on March 30, 2024.

Promoting Kathiya Gehu :

* This recognition is expected to boost the promotion of Kathiya Gehu, an indigenous wheat variety known for its high protein content and minimal water requirements. Notably, Kathiya Gehu is gluten-free, making it a healthier option for consumers.

* Kathiya Gehu’s adaptability to harsh climatic conditions and low irrigation needs make it a resilient crop, particularly suitable for the arid landscape of the Bundelkhand region.

About Kathiya Wheat :

* Technically classified as “Triticum Durum,” Kathiya wheat is renowned for its hardness, earning it names like Durum wheat, Dalia, pasta wheat, or macaroni wheat. Despite constituting only a small fraction (5-8%) of total wheat production, it holds significant cultural and nutritional value.

Economic Significance :

The amber-colored seed of Kathiya wheat, coupled with its nutritional profile and culinary adaptability, have attracted attention both domestically and internationally. Its demand in the international market, particularly for manufacturing products like macaroni, underscores its economic significance.

The article highlights the significance of Kathiya Gehu, an indigenous wheat variety from Bundelkhand, receiving the GI tag, and its unique characteristics, such as high protein content, gluten-free nature, adaptability to harsh conditions, nutritional superiority, culinary versatility, and economic potential.

Correct Answer :   IIT Bombay

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President of India Draupadi Murmu launched India's first domestic gene therapy for cancer at IIT Bombay.

India's first CAR-T cell therapy has been developed in collaboration with IIT Bombay and Tata Memorial Hospital. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the launch of India's first gene therapy is a major breakthrough in our fight against cancer.

Correct Answer :   IIT Patna

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SJVN, formerly Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam, has forged a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Patna (IIT Patna) aimed at revolutionizing tunneling project performance through the integration of advanced geological models.

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Objective

* Utilization of Advanced Geological Models : The primary objective of the MoU is to leverage advanced geological models developed by IIT Patna to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of SJVN’s tunneling projects.

Key Outcomes

* Development of Predictive Analytics Algorithms : Collaborative efforts will result in the creation of predictive analytics algorithms, utilizing integrated geotechnical data to forecast potential risks and provide early warning systems tailored for tunneling projects.

Methodologies

* Integration of Diverse Geotechnical Data : The partnership will focus on developing cutting-edge methodologies that integrate various geotechnical data sources, including geological surveys, borehole data, geophysical measurements, and monitoring data from SJVN projects.

Evaluation and Design Enhancement

* Enhanced Evaluation of Support Systems : SJVN and IIT Patna will evaluate the intricate relationship between overburden and deformation, leading to improved evaluation and design of support systems crucial for tunneling projects.

Risk Analysis and Hazard Identification

* Utilization of Integrated Geotechnical Data : Harnessing integrated geotechnical data and 3D geological models, the collaboration aims to identify and analyze potential risks and hazards associated with tunneling projects, enabling proactive risk management strategies.

Correct Answer :   Ajit Doval

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The 19th annual meeting of the secretaries of the security councils of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states was held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from 2 to 3 April 2024. The Indian delegation was led by the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. He also met Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the current Chairman of SCO.

Agenda of the Meeting :

* President Tokayev advocated adopting a Cooperation Programme to counter terrorism, separatism, and extremism for 2025-2027 and the SCO Anti-Drug Strategy for 2024-2029.

* He mentioned that countering “three evil forces” – terrorism, separatism and extremism – along with transnational organised crime, drug trafficking and cybersecurity challenges remain priorities during Kazakhstan’s chairmanship in the SCO.

Doval Calls for Improving Security Situation :

* NSA Ajit Doval strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Moscow, Russia, and highlighted the threat of terrorism in the region. He suggested various ways to improve the security situation of the nations.

India’s Stance on Afghanistan :

* On Afghanistan, Doval said India has legitimate security and economic interests. He expressed deep concern over the security situation and called upon the SCO to provide humanitarian assistance, combat terrorism, and ensure the formation of an inclusive and representative government.

* Doval mentioned India’s humanitarian steps, including investing $3 Billion, supplying 50,000 MT of wheat, 250 Tons of medical aid, and 40,000 litres of Malathion pesticide to fight the locust menace in Afghanistan.

* However, India does not recognize the present Taliban government in Afghanistan.

Correct Answer :   April 1 to April 7

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Our eyes are very important and allow us to see the world around us. However, many people around the world suffer from blindness or vision problems. To address this, the Indian government has declared April 1 to April 7 as Prevention of Blindness Week.

This week aims to create awareness about the importance of taking care of our eyes and getting regular eye examinations to prevent eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration.

Prevention of Blindness Week, History :

* In 1960, Jawaharlal Nehru and Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur started the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness. It is a voluntary organization that accepts donations and works with other groups to fight blindness. India was the first country to take a loan from the World Bank to help eliminate blindness.

Prevention of Blindness Week 2024, Theme :

* The theme for Prevention of Blindness Week 2024 is decided by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The theme for this year has not been announced yet.

Correct Answer :   Jaunpur

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Jaunpur, a city in Uttar Pradesh, is renowned as the "City of Imarti" due to its unique Imarti delicacy, which has a distinct taste and aroma that has been cherished since the British era.

The district administration has been working to obtain a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Jaunpur's Imarti, highlighting its cultural significance.