Who became the chairman of the RAC of ICAR?

Daily Current Affairs

Neeraja Prabhakar

Dr Rajiv Bahl

B. L. Taneja

G. V. Satyavati

Correct Answer : Neeraja Prabhakar

B.Neeraja Prabhakar has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Research Advisory Committee (RAC) for the ICAR-Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research (IIOPR) located in Pedavegi, Andhra Pradesh.

This significant appointment, effective from June 13, will see Ms. Prabhakar leading a ten-member committee for a three-year term. With her extensive experience and expertise in the field, Ms. Prabhakar’s appointment is expected to contribute to the growth and development of the oil palm industry in India.

About Neeraja Prabhakar : Ms. B.Neeraja Prabhakar is the Vice-Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University. Her diverse background and in-depth knowledge of the horticulture sector have made her an ideal candidate for the position of Chairperson of the RAC for IIOPR. In addition to her new role, Ms. Prabhakar has previously served as a member of the Telangana Oil Palm Advisory Committee, where she provided valuable insights and recommendations for the cultivation and promotion of oil palm in the state.

The Significance of the Research Advisory Committee : The Research Advisory Committee (RAC) plays a crucial role in guiding and advising the ICAR-Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research (IIOPR) on research and development initiatives. As the only dedicated institute in India for oil palm research, IIOPR aims to develop cutting-edge technologies applicable to all oil palm growing states. The RAC, led by Ms. Prabhakar, will provide strategic direction, review research proposals, evaluate ongoing projects, and offer valuable insights to ensure the institute’s research activities are aligned with the industry’s needs.

Focus on Oil Palm Research in India : Oil palm cultivation in India has gained significant importance in recent years due to its economic and nutritional value. Telangana, in particular, has emerged as a leading state in terms of oil extraction from oil palm kernels. With Ms. Prabhakar’s involvement in the Telangana Oil Palm Advisory Committee, her appointment as RAC Chairperson brings added expertise and understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities faced by the region. The state aims to expand oil palm cultivation to 20 lakh acres in the near future with a target of reaching at least 10 lakh acres over the next four years.

Published On : July 10, 2023

Solar’s Ascendance in India :

In 2015, India ranked ninth in solar energy deployment, but by 2023, it produced 5.8% of its electricity from solar, up from 0.5% in 2015. This significant increase underscores India’s commitment to clean energy and its pivotal role in mitigating climate change.

Global Solar Growth Trends :

Ember’s report highlights that solar energy witnessed a remarkable increase globally, with 2023’s solar generation exceeding six times that of 2015. The top four solar growth countries, including India, accounted for 75% of this growth, emphasizing the widespread adoption of solar power worldwide.

Published On : May 9, 2024

Q .

India's Toy Exports Slip to _____ Million in 2023-24

$102.92

$121.19

$139.53

$152.34

Correct Answer : Option (D) - $152.34

India’s toy exports experienced a slight decline to USD 152.34 million in the fiscal year 2023-24, with limited benefits from quality control measures. Despite efforts to bolster the domestic industry and ensure product safety, exports did not see significant improvement.

Declining Export Trends :

Export figures dropped marginally from USD 153.89 million in the previous fiscal year to USD 152.34 million in 2023-24, as outlined by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). Despite a modest increase in exports from FY’2020 to FY’2022, the subsequent year witnessed a downturn.

Import Trends :

Conversely, imports rose to USD 64.92 million in 2023-24 from USD 62.37 million in the preceding year, indicating a persistent challenge in balancing trade dynamics.

GTRI’s Recommendations :

Comprehensive Industry Development Strategy : GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava emphasized the necessity for a holistic approach to foster the growth of India’s toy industry and bolster exports.

Domestic Ecosystem Strengthening : Developing a robust domestic ecosystem is paramount, alongside measures to encourage renowned global toy brands to establish manufacturing facilities within India’s borders.

Published On : May 9, 2024

Q .

India Leads Global Remittances, Surpassing _____ Billion Mark.

$50

$100

$200

$250

Correct Answer : Option (B) - $100

India emerged as the global leader in remittances in 2022, receiving over $111 billion, surpassing the $100 billion mark for the first time. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) highlighted India, alongside Mexico, China, the Philippines, and France, as the top five remittance recipient countries.

Consistent Growth: From $53.48 Billion to $111.22 Billion

The UN’s World Migration Report 2024 underscored India’s consistent growth in remittances, noting a rise from $53.48 billion in 2010 to $111.22 billion in 2022. This significant increase showcases India’s pivotal role in the global remittance landscape.

Southern Asia’s Significance in Global Remittances :

The IOM emphasized Southern Asia’s importance as a major recipient of global remittances, attributed to its high proportion of migrant workers and emigrants. India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh all ranked among the top ten recipients worldwide, highlighting the sub-region’s reliance on labor migration.

Prominent Migration Corridors and Destination Countries :

While India ranks 13th as a destination country for immigrants, it features prominently in various international migration corridors, including India-United Arab Emirates, India-Saudi Arabia, and Bangladesh-India, all of which are among the top 10. This indicates India’s significant role in global labor migration patterns.

Published On : May 9, 2024