Correct Answer :   Telangana

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Government of Telangana to introduce Gruha Jyothi Scheme From February (2024) First Week. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has accelerated every process that it takes to implement all the six guaranteed schemes as soon as possible.

There was much confusion about this scheme, as many people refused to pay their electricity bills for the past 2 months, after hearing that the Gruha Jyothi scheme Free 200 units of electricity is announced.

However the Government of Telangana mentioned that Only people who have cleared all their previous month’s electricity bills are eligible for the scheme, specifically from December 2023 and January 2024, there should be no arrears in electricity bills.

Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy announced that the Gruha Jyothi’s free electricity scheme will be implemented from starting of February. Every BPL card household will get 200 units of free electricity under this scheme from February. So every household will get 200 units of free electricity, if your electricity consumption is or within 200 units you don’t have to pay for electricity.

In a meeting of the Manifesto Committee of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) which was in Hyderabad, officials reviewed about implementation of all the guarantee schemes. Including Deepa Dasmunshi (AICC) many congress officials were in the meeting.

Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said that the Congress Government has already implemented free TSRTC Bus travel for women and accelerated the process for other schemes as well. He mentioned that the Gruha Jyothi Scheme will be implemented from February 2024.

Komatireddy Venkat Reddy pointed out that the Arogyasiri Scheme is providing health benefits for 5 lakh to 10 lakh which is also implemented which shows how the government is working fast to implement all the schemes.

People who are eligible for the implemented schemes are requested to apply for them and get the benefits as much as possible..

Source : Mahalakshmi Scheme

Correct Answer :   Amazon

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In 2024, the world’s biggest brands continue to shape industries and consumer preferences. Amazon leads the list, followed by Apple, a powerhouse in e-commerce and diverse business ventures. Microsoft remains a tech giant, while Google dominates online search and information. Samsung’s electronics prowess, Facebook’s social media influence, and Coca-Cola’s timeless appeal solidify their positions, joined by Toyota, Nike, and Walmart, creating a dynamic landscape of global market leaders.

Most Valuable Brand in the World 2024 :

As of 2024, Amazon reigns as the world’s largest retail giant, commanding a staggering market value of $299.3 billion. Beyond its origins as an online marketplace, Amazon’s diverse ventures into cloud services, entertainment, and innovation have solidified its status as a global powerhouse, shaping the landscape of commerce and technology on an unprecedented scale.

Top-10 Most Valuable Brand in the World By January 2024 :

Amazon, with the brand value of $299.3, is the most valuable brand in the world, followed by Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Walmart.

Here is the list of top-10 most valuable brands in the world by January 2024 :

1.    Amazon ($299.3 - U.S).
2.    Apple  ($297.5 - U.S).
3.    Google ($281.4  - U.S).
4.    Microsoft ($191.6  - U.S).
5.    Walmart ($113.8  -U.S).
6.    Samsung Group ($99.7- South Korea)
7.    ICBC ($69.5 - China)
8.    Verizon ($67.4 - U.S).
9.    Tesla ($66.2 - U.S).
10.    Tik Tok/ Douyin ($65.7 - China)

Correct Answer :   January 23

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in commemorating the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, observed as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour), on January 23.

The Prime Minister conveyed his greetings to the people of India and highlighted Netaji's dedication to the nation's freedom.

"Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire," wrote PM Modi on X.

Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire. pic.twitter.com/OZP6cJBgeC

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2024

Subhas Chandra Bose was born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha. He was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. Growing up, Subhas Chandra Bose was a bright student who completed his BA in Philosophy from the Presidency College in Calcutta (today known as Kolkata). His father also sent him to England to appear for the Civil Services Examination. He scored the highest marks in English and placed fourth overall.

It was in 1921 that he resigned from the Indian Civil Service and returned to India. His frequent run-ins with the authorities earned him notoriety as a rebel by the then-British government in India.

Netaji worked under the mentorship of prominent Congress leader Chittaranjan Das who, along with Motilal Nehru, left the Congress Party to form the Swaraj Party in 1922. He started a newspaper called Swaraj and even served as editor of the Forward, a newspaper started by Chittaranjan Das.

In 1923, Netaji was elected the President of the All India Youth Congress Committee and the Secretary of the Bengal State Congress. He briefly served as the mayor of Calcutta in 1930 as well.

In 1942, he formed the Indian National Army in Southeast Asia with the help of Japan, comprising of Indian soldiers the British Indian army captured in war. Netaji established a provisional government of Free India or Azad Hind in 1943 in Andaman and Nicobar, then captured by Japanese forces.

Subhas Chandra Bose is believed to have died in a plane that crashed shortly after take-off. Due to the mystery surrounding the circumstances of his death, the Government of India has since set up a number of committees to investigate the case.

Notably, the title 'Netaji', which means 'Revered Leader' in Hindi, was given to Subhas Chandra Bose by German and Indian officials at the Special Bureau of India in Berlin.

Correct Answer :   Both (B) and (C)

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The Uttar Pradesh government will honor ISRO scientist Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava and entrepreneur Naveen Tiwari on Uttar Pradesh Day for their achievements.

The state government will honour two personalities who have brought laurels to the state on the Uttar Pradesh Day on Wednesday (24th Jan 2024).

The government will confer the ‘Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman’ on eminent ISRO scientist Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who played a crucial role in the Chandrayaan Mission as the mission director of mission moon, and Naveen Tiwari, a noted entrepreneur from Kanpur, who is regularly featured on covers of magazines like Forbes and Fortune, said a UP government in a statement on Tuesday. The U.P. government celebrates the Uttar Pradesh Diwas on January 24, 2024.

Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who hails from Lucknow, played a crucial role in the development of India’s Mars Orbiter Mission Mangalyaan. She also served as the deputy operations director for this mission. Mangalyaan was one of ISRO’s greatest achievements, making India the fourth country in the world to reach Mars, said the statement.

Dr Ritu completed her B.Sc. in physics from Lucknow University. She was a research scholar at Lucknow University for six months. During the convocation in 2019, the Lucknow University presented her with the prestigious D.Sc. (honorary doctorate) degree. Karidhal has been working for ISRO since 1997. She also obtained a master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore.

Eminent entrepreneur Naveen Tewari, a resident of Kanpur, has created two unicorns and given India its first unicorn. He has established the world’s largest independent mobile ad tech platform, connecting local businesses in Uttar Pradesh and India with national and international audiences. His lock screen software is present on more than 40 crore smartphones globally.

He has his presence in 26 countries, positioning India on the global stage. He has directly employed 3000 people while giving employment to thousands indirectly. (With agency inputs)..


Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   60 Parachute Field Hospital (UP)

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The Centre on Tuesday (23rd Jan 2024) announced that 60 Parachute Field Hospital in Uttar Pradesh, which provided medical aid during the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria in 2023, has been selected for Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024 (institutional category) for “excellent work in disaster management”.

The Central government has instituted an annual award known as Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar to recognise and honour the invaluable contribution and selfless service rendered by individuals and organisations in India in the field of disaster management.

The award is announced every year on 23 January 2024, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 51 lakh and a certificate in case of an institution, and Rs 5 lakh and a certificate in case of an individual.

“Under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the country has significantly improved the disaster management practices, preparedness, mitigation, and response mechanisms resulting in significant reduction in casualties during natural calamities. The Union Home Minister continuously reviews disaster preparedness and stresses upon training of communities and adopting best practices by the stakeholders to minimise loss of life and property,” said a Ministry of Home Affairs spokesperson in a statement.

For the award of 2024, online nominations were solicited from July 1, 2023, onwards. In response to the award scheme, 245 valid nominations were received from institutions and individuals.

“The 60 Parachute Field Hospital in Uttar Pradesh was established in 1942. It had provided medical assistance during the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, the 2015 Nepal earthquake under the operation name Maitri, and Indonesian tsunami as part of operation Samudra Maitri in 2018.

In February 2023, in response to the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria, the unit rapidly assembled a 99-member team and established India’s pioneering level-2 medical facility in Turkey overcoming resource constraints and language barrier to set up a 30-bed hospital in Hatay province’s school building. The unit provided a wide range of medical services, including rescue, triage, surgery, dental treatment, X-ray, lab facilities, and offered care to 3,600 patients during a 12-day period as a part of Operation Dost,” the spokesperson said..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   Zambia

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The Mines Ministry has proposed sending an Indian industry delegation to copper-rich Zambia to discuss potential copper exploration and mining projects in the southern African country.

Mining companies including Vedanta and its subsidiary Hindustan Zinc, along with electric vehicle (EV) maker Ola Electric and lithium-ion battery recycler LOHUM, have expressed interest in joining the delegation to Zambia to attend a joint working group (JWG) meeting to discuss cooperation in the field of mineral resources.

Zambia has about 6 per cent of the world’s copper reserves and was the eighth-largest producer of copper in 2022. Copper is widely used in sectors like construction, consumer durables, transportation, and industrial manufacturing. It is also used in clean energy technologies including solar panels, EVs, and energy efficient motors. China Nonferrous Mining Corporation (CNMC) is among the largest producers of copper in Zambia..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   From rooftop solar panels

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The shares of renewable energy companies showed immense growth on 23rd January 2024, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced solar panels for 1 crore homes after the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony on Monday (22nd Jan 2024).

Major renewable energy companies like Tata Power and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) were some of the top gainers of the day on the stock market, with their shares rallying over 5 percent as the markets closed.

Overall, renewable energy stocks saw a surge of over 18 percent today after PM Modi announced the Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana on Monday (22nd Jan 2024), after the nation celebrated the Pran Prathishtha of Ram Lalla idol in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

The prime minister tweeted on Monday, “Today, on the auspicious occasion of consecration in Ayodhya, my resolution got further strengthened that the people of India should have their own solar rooftop system on the roof of their houses. The first decision I have taken after returning from Ayodhya is that our government will launch “Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana” with the target of installing rooftop solar on 1 crore houses.”

Renewable energy companies see major spike :

The top stock market gainer for the day in the renewable energy space remained Borosil Renewables, which soared 19 percent today, touching its 52-week high. The second gainer was Tata Power, its share prices up 6 percent on Tuesday (23rd Jan 2024).

Other renewable energy companies in India such as state-run IREDA, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy, Waree Renewable Technologies, Surana Solar, and Gensol Engineering were all up 5 percent today, touching their 52-week high.

The significant rise in shares on Tuesday, despite the major market crash, is all thanks to the growing advancements in India's renewable energy sector and the announcement of the Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana, boosting the demand of solar panel systems..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Gujarat

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Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation stone of Khodaldham Trust Cancer Hospital in Rajkot, Gujarat on Sunday (21st Jan 2024).

* The Shree Khodaldham Trust (SKT), an organisation for the Leuva Patel community, will build a hospital and a cancer research center in Amreli village in Padadhari taluka of Rajkot.

* Earlier, PM Modi, while virtually addressing the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the hospital, said that 30 new cancer hospitals were developed in the state in last nine years.

* The PM also said that Gujarat has made unprecedented progress in the field of health in the last 20 years, and the state is becoming a big medical hub in India.

* "Gujarat has made unprecedented progress in the field of health in the last 20 years. Today, Gujarat is becoming a big medical hub in India. Till 2002, there were only 11 medical colleges in Gujarat, and their number has increased to 40 currently. In 20 years, the number of MBBS seats has increased five times, and the number of PG seats has increased three times," the PM said, adding that the government wants to ensure that cancer patients don't face any problems during their treatment.

Sharing my remarks at foundation stone laying ceremony of Khodaldham Trust Cancer Hospital in Gujarat. https://t.co/ouPCMUpNgt

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2024

* "In the last nine years, 30 new cancer hospitals were developed, while work is underway for 10 more such hospitals," the PM added.

* He further said that the central government has built around 1.5 lakh 'Ayushman Arogya Mandirs'.

* "These Mandirs focus on the early detection of cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The early detection of cancer helps doctors treat it," he said.

* Noting that it is important that people remain healthy for the development of the country, the PM said that as many as six crore people have benefited from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.

* "For the development of the country, it is important that people remain healthy. We also started the Ayushman Bharat Yojana for the poor. This scheme has helped more than six crore people," he added.

* The PM also said that the women have greatly benefited from the efforts of the central government in the field.

* "Due to the effort of the central government, the women have benefited a lot. The Ayushman Arogya Mandir plays an important role in the early detection of cervical cancer and breast cancer," the PM said. (ANI)..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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The much-awaited consecration ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla was held in Ayodhya, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the rituals at the newly constructed grand temple. He also unveiled the idol of Ramlalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. During the ceremony, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel also worshiped Ram Lalla.

On January 22, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, marking a momentous occasion in India’s history. The inauguration involved the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol, a pivotal event that symbolizes the infusion of life into the idol. The event, attended by over 7,000 dignitaries, was not just a religious ceremony but also a cultural milestone for India.

Prime Minister’s Participation :

Prime Minister Modi’s involvement was central to the ceremony. He participated in the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of the Ram Lalla idol from 12:29:03 pm to 12:30:35 pm, a brief but highly auspicious 84-second window during the ‘Abhijit muhurta’. His visit to Ayodhya spanned nearly four hours, filled with various activities and rituals associated with the inauguration???.

The Ram Lalla Idol and Temple Complex :

The Ram Lalla idol, crafted by renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj from Karnataka, is a 51-inch black-coloured depiction of Lord Ram as a five-year-old child. It was installed inside the temple’s sanctum sanctorum on January 18 as part of the preparatory rituals.

The temple itself, an architectural marvel, stands at a length of 380 feet, a width of 250 feet, height of 161 feet and 2.7 acres of land, embodying the traditional Nagara style of architecture?.

Comprehensive Security and Celebrations

Ayodhya was transformed into a secure and festive zone. An extensive security network, including AI-powered drones and 13,000 security personnel, was deployed. The city was adorned with flowers and lights, echoing with slogans and verses from the Ramayana. The celebrations extended beyond Ayodhya, with people from different states contributing various gifts and offerings???..

Correct Answer :   Chandrakant B Sompura

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The chief architect of Ayodhya Ram temple is Chandrakant B Sompura. Chandrakant comes from a family which has already been engaged in temple construction work for years. Notable temples designed by him include Somnath Temple in Gujarat, Swaminarayan Temple in Mumbai, Akshardham Temple Complex in Gujarat and Birla Temple in Kolkata.

Ram Temple in Ayodhya, set to be inaugurated on 22nd Jan 2024, is a marvel that blends traditional Indian heritage with modern scientific techniques. Designed by the renowned architect Chandrakant B Sompura and his son Ashish, the temple stands proudly on 2.7 acres of land in the historic temple town.

Who Designed the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

Chandrakant Sompura, the chief architect of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, hails from a distinguished lineage of temple architects based in Ahmedabad. With a family legacy spanning over several generations, the Sompuras have left an indelible mark on Indian temple architecture, having designed and built more than 200 temples. Notable among their creations are iconic structures like the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, the Swaminarayan temple in Mumbai, the Akshardham temple complex in Gujarat, and the Birla Temple in Kolkata.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Design, the Essence of Nagara Architecture :

The Ayodhya Ram Mandir is a living testament to the magnificence of Nagara architecture, a style that traces its roots back to the fifth century. The intricate carvings, majestic spires, and sacred sanctums of the temple pay homage to India’s cultural and religious diversity. The design reflects the essence of Lord Ram’s revered abode, creating a harmonious blend of spirituality and architectural brilliance.

Chandrakant Sompura’s Legacy as Chief Architect of the Ram Mandir :

As the grand consecration ceremony approaches, the name Chandrakant Sompura is set to be etched into the pages of Indian history. His dedication and expertise as the chief architect of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir have brought forth a divine structure that transcends architectural boundaries. The culmination of his vision promises not only a sacred place of worship but also a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and enduring faith that resonates across the diverse tapestry of India.

Architectural Dimension of Ram Mandir Temple of Ayodhya :

* Dimensions : The temple is an impressive structure, standing 161 feet tall, 235 feet wide, and with a total length of 360 feet. It encompasses a built-up area of nearly 57,000 square feet.

* Architectural Style : Following the Nagara style, one of the distinguished temple-building styles from ancient India, the temple meticulously adheres to Vedic rituals while incorporating modern technology.

Features of Ram Mandir Temple :

* Three Floors : The temple is a three-floor structure, and the height is about 70% of the iconic Qutab Minar.

* Sanctum Sanctorum : The most sacred part, ‘garbha griha,’ is situated on a raised plinth, adorned with the tallest shikhara resembling a mountain peak.

* Shikharas and Pillars : Five shikharas are constructed over five mandapas, with 300 pillars across the mandapas, creating an intricate and awe-inspiring design.

* Artistic Details : The temple’s interior is adorned with Makrana marble, the same stone used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

Construction Techniques of Ram Mandir

* Traditional Materials : The temple is built using granite, sandstone, and marble, adhering to the Nagara style that emerged during the Gupta Period.

* No Cement or Mortar : Notably, no cement or mortar was used in its construction, ensuring longevity.

* Durability : Instead of steel or iron, the temple incorporates a lock and key mechanism with a mix of granite and sandstone, providing a lifespan of up to 1,000 years.

Ram Mandir Ayodhya – Scientific Contributions :

* Engineering Excellence : The construction involved top Indian scientists, with Pradeep Kumar Ramancharla, the director of the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), actively contributing to the project.

* ISRO Technologies : The temple incorporates technologies from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), showcasing a fusion of traditional architecture and modern scientific advancements.

* Innovative Ceremony : A special ‘Surya Tilak’ mirror, designed by scientists from CBRI and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), will be used for the ceremonial anointment of Lord Ram on every Ram Navami day at noon, utilizing sunlight.