Correct Answer : Option (D) - Varanasi

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In a significant development, two iconic products from the historic city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, have been granted the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) status. On April 16, 2024, the GI Registry Office based in Chennai announced that the Tiranga Barfi of Varanasi and the Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft have been included in the prestigious GI category.

Uttar Pradesh’s GI Product Tally Reaches 75 :

This latest addition has further strengthened Uttar Pradesh’s position as a leader in the GI domain. With the inclusion of Tiranga Barfi and Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft, the total number of GI products from the state has reached an impressive 75, comprising 58 handicrafts and 17 agricultural and food products. This remarkable achievement sets a new record for the highest number of GI tags associated with a particular state in India.

The Iconic Tiranga Barfi :

Steeped in the rich history of India’s independence movement, the Tiranga Barfi holds a special place in the hearts of Varanasi’s residents. During the struggle for freedom, this tricolored sweetmeat was ingeniously crafted to facilitate secret meetings and information exchange among revolutionaries. The saffron hue is derived from saffron, the green color comes from pistachio, and the white shade is created using khoya and cashew nuts.

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Third

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Key Points :

Hindustan Zinc is now the 3rd largest silver producer globally, with highest silver annual production, up 5% y-o-y

Holds 2nd largest zinc reserves and resources globally

Industry leading production growth rate with best-ever annual metal production

Highest-ever quarterly refined metal production for Q4 FY24, up 6% sequentially

1st decile of the global zinc mines cost curve; lowest annual COP in last 3 years at US$ 1,117/MT

Quarterly Revenue up by 3% and EBITDA up by 2%

Ranked first globally in S&P Sustainability Assessment in Metals and Mining sector

Correct Answer : Option (A) - $29.12

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India’s electronics industry experienced a notable surge in exports, reaching $29.12 billion in fiscal year 2023-24, a substantial 23.6% increase from the previous year. This growth is particularly significant amid an overall contraction of the country’s total exports by 3%.

Top Export Markets :

Commerce department officials identified the United States, United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, United Kingdom, and Italy as the top five export markets for Indian electronics goods.

Expansion into New Markets :

During FY24, Indian electronics exports expanded into new markets such as Montenegro, Cayman Islands, El Salvador, Turkmenistan, Mongolia, Honduras, and St. Vincent, reflecting India’s increasing presence and diversification in the global market.

Implications for India’s Electronics Industry :

This impressive growth not only signifies India’s strengthening position in the global electronics market but also underscores the potential for further expansion into new and emerging markets. The diversification of export destinations showcases India’s commitment to embracing new opportunities and enhancing its global trade footprint.