Which Country has introduced a 96-hour stopover visa for Indians traveling to the West or the Middle East?

Daily Current Affairs

Egypt

TÃ¼rkiye

Saudi Arabia

Lebanon

Correct Answer : Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has introduced a 96-hour stopover visa for Indians traveling to the West or the Middle East. This initiative, part of the Saudi Vision 2030 to streamline Umrah visits, was announced by Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan.

During a joint press briefing with India's Minister of Minority Affairs Smriti Irani and Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan emphasized the nation's commitment to facilitating the religious pilgrimage of Muslims globally. He stated, "Indians traveling to the West or the Middle East can obtain a stopover visa, that is, for 96 hours, and get a visa within the ticket issuance process, which allows them to perform Umrah and visit any city in the Kingdom."

The Umrah Visa, valid for 90 days, enables holders to reside and travel within Saudi Arabia, ensuring an efficient and convenient pilgrimage experience. Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan highlighted the Kingdom's efforts to transform Umrah into a rewarding religious expedition by utilizing technological advancements and upgrading infrastructure.

Individuals looking to perform Umrah can now obtain a Kingdom entry visa within 48 hours. Indian travelers can perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia using their work, tourism, or Umrah visas. The streamlined visa acquisition process aims to enhance accessibility for Umrah pilgrims.

The collaborative efforts between India and Saudi Arabia have yielded significant results, with the number of Umrah pilgrims from India surpassing 1.2 million in 2023, reflecting a 74% increase from the previous year. Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan expressed a commitment to discussions to enhance the range of direct flight options and focus on increasing capacity to accommodate the growing number of Indians looking to perform Umrah.

As part of these efforts, three new visa centers will be established in India, streamlining the visa issuance procedures. An upcoming exhibition in Mumbai will serve as an opportunity for collaboration between Umrah and tourism companies from Saudi Arabia and India, introducing initiatives to enhance the Umrah journey.

India and Saudi Arabia's close and friendly relationship, fostered under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has reached new heights. Muraleedharan emphasized the mutual recognition of the partnership's benefits to both countries, communities, and the broader region. He reiterated the Ministry of External Affairs' commitment to working closely to ensure the success of the pilgrimage..

Source : India Times

Published On : December 7, 2023

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

Q .

International Day of Plant Health 2024 Observed on?

9th May

10th May

11th May

12th May

Correct Answer : Option (D) - 12th May

The International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) is observed annually on 12 May to raise awareness about the critical importance of protecting plant health. This global initiative aims to prevent hunger, reduce poverty, safeguard biodiversity, and promote economic development worldwide. This year, the International Day of Plant Health falls on Sunday, 12 May 2024, coinciding with Mother’s Day, an event that recognizes the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers.

Theme: ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology’ :

The theme for the International Day of Plant Health 2024 is ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology.’ This theme emphasizes the need for international collaboration, standards, and the integration of digital technologies to promote plant health and ensure safe trade practices.

History and Significance :

The United Nations established the International Day of Plant Health to draw public attention to the necessity of safeguarding plant health. The resolution was unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly in March 2022 and co-sponsored by several countries, including Bolivia, Finland, Pakistan, the Philippines, Tanzania, and Zambia.

The resolution highlights the crucial role of healthy plants in sustainable agricultural development, supporting a growing global population by 2050. It also acknowledges the functions of plants in regulating ecosystems, providing food security and nutrition, and promoting biodiversity.

Published On : May 13, 2024

Q .

Which Indian City is Known as 'City of Bridges'?

Mumbai

Pune

Surat

Bengaluru

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Surat

Surat earned the title "City of Bridges" due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India.

Which Indian City is Known as “City of Bridges”?

The Indian city known as the “City of Bridges” is Surat, located in the state of Gujarat. Surat boasts an impressive number of bridges, surpassing any other city in India. With over 120 bridges spanning rivers and connecting various parts of the city, Surat’s infrastructure facilitates smooth transportation for its residents. This abundance of bridges has earned Surat its distinctive title, highlighting its significance as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Why is Surat Known as the “City of Bridges”?

Surat earned the title “City of Bridges” due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India. Situated along the banks of the Tapi River and close to other water bodies, Surat’s strategic location necessitated the construction of numerous bridges for seamless connectivity. These bridges play a vital role in facilitating smooth transportation within the city, earning Surat its reputation as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Published On : May 13, 2024