ADITI Scheme' is related to which of the following areas?

Daily Current Affairs

Education sector

Defense sector

Health sector

Space Technology

Correct Answer : Defense sector

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme to promote innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies, during DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on March 04, 2024.

Under the scheme, start-ups are eligible to receive grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for their research, development, and innovation endeavours in defence technology. “The scheme will nurture the innovation of youth, and help the country leap forward in the field of technology,” the Raksha Mantri said as he addressed a gathering of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and policymakers.

The ADITI scheme worth Rs 750 crore for the period 2023-24 to 2025-26 falls under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework of Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence.

It aims to develop about 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies in the proposed timeframe. It also envisages to create a ‘Technology Watch Tool’ to bridge the gap between the expectations and requirements of the modern Armed Forces and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem. In the first edition of ADITI, 17 challenges – Indian Army (3), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5) and Defence Space Agency (4) - have been launched.

Shri Rajnath Singh voiced Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s unwavering commitment to encourage the youth to bring forth innovative ideas. He asserted that to motivate young innovators, iDEX was expanded to iDEX Prime, with the assistance increasing from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore. Following the encouraging participation in providing solutions to the challenges given by the Services and DPSUs, ADITI scheme has now been launched, he said.

The Raksha Mantri stated that the idea behind the schemes/initiatives such as ADITI, iDEX, iDEX Prime is to also transform India into a knowledge society. “As times are changing, new technologies are coming into existence. To become a developed country, it is necessary for us to achieve a technological edge. We have to transform our country into a knowledge society,” he said.

The event also witnessed the launch of the 11th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC), heralding a new chapter in the collaboration between the defence establishment and the start-up ecosystem. The DISC 11 introduces 22 problem statements - Indian Army (4), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (7) and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (1) - aimed at addressing critical defence challenges, inviting innovators to propose innovative solutions that can enhance the country’s defence capabilities and contribute to national security.

Shri Rajnath Singh described ‘getting a hold on state-of-the-art defence technology’ as the most crucial aspect to achieve self-reliance due to the increasing role of cutting-edge technology in warfare in today’s time. He stated that technology can be mastered either by adopting the latest innovation from other countries or by developing our own. The Government is working on both methods, he stressed..

Source : PIB

Published On : March 5, 2024

Food Basket Inflation Remains Elevated :

Despite the overall moderation in inflation, the inflation rate in the food basket grew at 8.7 per cent in April, up from 8.52 per cent in March, as per data from the National Statistical Office (NSO). Notably, India’s vegetable inflation slightly decreased to 27.80 per cent year-on-year compared to 28.30 per cent in March. However, inflation rates for cereals and pulses, crucial components of India’s staple diet, remained elevated at 8.63 per cent and 16.84 per cent, respectively.

Contractions in Fuel and Light Inflation :

In contrast to the food sector, the inflation rate for fuel and light witnessed a contraction of (-)4.24 per cent in April, reflecting a downward trend in energy prices.

Inflation Trends Across Various Commodities :

Among the top five groups, the year-on-year inflation in categories like ‘Clothing & Footwear’, ‘Housing’, and ‘Fuel & Light’ has decreased since the previous month. Specifically, the inflation rates for clothing & footwear and the housing sector stood at 2.85 per cent and 2.68 per cent, respectively.

Published On : May 14, 2024

Q .

Which District is the Entry Point of Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh?

Bijnor

Amroha

Rampur

Budaun

Correct Answer : Option (A) - Bijnor

After originating from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand, the Ganga flows into the plains and enters the state of UP. Uttar Pradesh witnesses the entry of the Ganga River from the Bijnor district.

India boasts numerous rivers, with some originating in the Himalayas while others stem from the major mountain ranges across the subcontinent. Among them, the Ganga River holds a revered status as the holiest and most prominent river in northern India. After emerging from the Himalayas, the Ganga traverses primarily through the state of Uttar Pradesh, playing a vital role in its economy and culture.

Ganga, the Longest River in India :

When it comes to the longest rivers in India, the Ganga River takes the lead. It spans a total length of 2525 kilometers, traversing through multiple states and serving as a lifeline for millions of people. However, it’s essential to note that while the Ganga is the longest river in terms of its course within India, in some regions, it merges with the Brahmaputra River, forming a vast network of water bodies.

Entry Point of Ganga River into Uttar Pradesh :

Uttar Pradesh witnesses the entry of the Ganga River from the Bijnor district. From there, it flows through various cities and towns, enriching the landscape and influencing the lives of millions. The river’s significance extends beyond just geographical boundaries, as it holds immense cultural, religious, and economic value for the people of Uttar Pradesh and India as a whole.

Published On : May 14, 2024

Q .

Which State of United States is Known as 'The Centennial State'?

Wyoming

Colorado

New Mexico

Pennsylvania

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Colorado

Colorado earned the nickname "The Centennial State" due to its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely a century after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Which State of United States is Known as “The Centennial State”?

Colorado holds the distinction of being known as “The Centennial State” among the United States. This nickname stems from its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Symbolizing both historical significance and patriotic pride, the title highlights Colorado’s role in commemorating the nation’s centennial while underscoring its rich heritage and contributions to American history.

The Origin of the Nickname “The Centennial State” :

Colorado earned the moniker “The Centennial State” due to its admission into the Union in the year 1876. This year held special significance as it marked the centennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal event in American history. The timing of Colorado’s statehood celebration perfectly aligned with the nation’s centennial celebrations, hence the fitting nickname.

Published On : May 13, 2024