Correct Answer : October 14
World Standards Day is celebrated annually on October 14 to honour the significant contributions of individuals and organizations involved in developing and implementing international standards. These standards are crucial for ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and interoperability across various industries.The day raises awareness about the importance of standardization in facilitating international trade and improving the quality of life.In 2024, the theme is “Advancing Health Equity through Standards,” highlighting the role of standards in addressing global challenges such as digital transformation and climate change.
Correct Answer : India
India has emerged as the second-largest supplier of restricted critical technologies to Russia, which includes essential components like microchips, circuits, and machine tools. These technologies are crucial for Russia's economy and military, especially amid its ongoing war efforts. India’s exports of these restricted items rose significantly, reaching $95 million in July 2024, an increase from $60 million in prior months. Only China surpasses India in supplying such restricted items to Russia.
Correct Answer : Telangana
Telangana has launched a comprehensive household caste survey, joining Andhra Pradesh and Bihar as the third state to conduct such a survey. This initiative aims to ensure targeted resource distribution among Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other communities. A commission led by former High Court judge Justice Shameem Akhtar will study the sub-classification of SCs. The survey will provide valuable data on socio-economic status, education levels, income, employment, and political representation, enabling evidence-based policy interventions.
Correct Answer : 105th
India ranks 105th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index, falling under the "serious" hunger category with a GHI score of 27.3. This ranking indicates that 13.7% of India's population is undernourished, with alarming rates of child malnutrition, including 35.5% stunted, 18.7% wasted, and 2.9% child mortality. In comparison, neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka have lower hunger levels, categorized as "moderate". The Global Hunger Index is published annually by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe to track hunger levels worldwide.
Correct Answer : Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved Maharatna status, granting it enhanced operational autonomy and financial powers. This upgrade enables HAL to invest up to 15% of its net worth in projects and ?5,000 crore in foreign ventures. To qualify, HAL demonstrated an average annual turnover exceeding ?25,000 crore, a net worth of over ?15,000 crore, and a net profit exceeding ?5,000 crore over three years ¹. As a Maharatna company, HAL joins the ranks of prominent PSUs like NTPC, ONGC, and BHEL, showcasing its substantial operational success.
Correct Answer : Noel Tata
Noel Tata has been appointed as the chairman of Tata Trusts, which holds a significant 66% ownership of Tata Sons. This pivotal role positions him to influence the strategic, investment, and philanthropic directions of the Tata Group, one of India's largest conglomerates valued at $165 billion.His appointment follows the death of his half-brother, Ratan Tata, marking an important transition for the Trusts and the broader Tata Group. The Tata Trusts play a critical role in the governance of Tata Sons by appointing a third of the board members and holding veto power over significant decisions, thus ensuring a strategic direction aligned with the group’s philanthropic goals.
Correct Answer : Nicaragua
Nicaragua has cut diplomatic ties with Israel, condemning its actions in Gaza and labelling its government "fascist and genocidal". This move aligns with Nicaragua's leftist stance and follows similar decisions by other Latin American countries. The country previously broke relations with Israel in 1982 and 2010 under President Daniel Ortega's administration. Nicaragua's government expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemned the war's expansion into Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran, reflecting a consistent stance among leftist governments in the region, emphasizing humanitarian concerns over diplomatic relations.
Correct Answer : Indian workers
Dr S Jaishankar launched the eMigrate V2.0 portal and app to promote orderly and responsible migration for Indian workers, providing them with social security and streamlined passport issuance processes. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 10 and features 2.81 lakh registered foreign employers, facilitating a secure and legal migration experience for Indian workers. The portal aims to safeguard the interests of Indian workers abroad and ensure their well-being.
Correct Answer : Pune
India's first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers was inaugurated by Dr Jitendra Singh in Pune, marking a significant milestone in the country's biotechnology sector. Developed by Praj Industries, the facility specializes in producing Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic. This initiative is part of India's rapidly growing bio-economy, valued at over $150 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $300 billion by 2030, driven by over 8,500 biotech startups. The facility underscores India's commitment to biotechnology research and innovation, positioning itself as a key player in the global biotech industry.
Correct Answer : 1985
The Assam Accord was signed in 1985 between the Central Government, the Assam State Government, and leaders of the Assam Movement to address the issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh. It sought to protect the cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the Assamese people through various safeguards. Clause 6 of the accord specifically called for the protection and promotion of the indigenous identity of Assam, with legislative and constitutional provisions.
