Who becomes the first woman to command combat unit in Indian Air Force (IAF) announced 7th March 2023?

Daily Current Affairs

Bhawana Kanth

Shaliza Dhami

Minty Agarwal

Mohana Singh Jitarwal

Correct Answer : Shaliza Dhami

The Indian Air Force announced Tuesday (7th Mar 2023) that it has selected Group Captain Shaliza Dhami to take command of a frontline combat unit in the Western sector.

* Group Captain Dhami will be the first woman officer in the IAF to command a missile squadron in the Western sector facing Pakistan. She is currently posted in the operations branch of a frontline command headquarters.

* Commissioned in 2003 as a helicopter pilot, Group Captain Dhami has over 2,800 hours of flying experience. She has flown the Chetak and Cheetah helicopters.

* A qualified flying instructor, she served as flight commander of a Chetak unit at the Hindon air base— both firsts for an Indian Air Force woman officer.

* She has been commended twice by the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief in the past.

* As a helicopter pilot, she flew several search-and-rescue missions, and also undertook flood relief operations.

* Hailing from Ludhiana – her parents were in government service – she decided very early on joining the Indian Air Force, more so after becoming a cadet of the NCC.

* Her husband, Vineet Joshi, is also a helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force.

* The Indian Air Force started inducting women fighter pilots in 2016 – the first batch had three women fighter pilots. They currently fly the MiG-21, Su-30MKI and Rafale.

* The development comes weeks after the Army cleared as many as 108 women officers for the rank of Colonel (selection grade), making them eligible for command roles.

* Women officers have started taking command of various Army units in arms and services including Engineers, Signals, Army Air Defence, Intelligence Corps, Army Service Corps, Army Ordnance Corps and Electronics and Mechanical Engineers. The Navy has also started inducting women officers on frontline ships, earlier a no-go zone for women officers.

* Many of them have been posted in the sensitive northern and eastern commands of the Army.

* There are 10,493 women officers serving in the armed forces, the majority in the medical services...

Source : Indian Express

Published On : March 9, 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