Who launched the National Geology Data Repository Portal?

Daily Current Affairs

Smriti Irani

Prahlad Joshi

Anurag Thakur

Nirmala Sitharaman

Correct Answer : Prahlad Joshi

Gearing up for the success of the first tranche of auction of Critical and Strategic Minerals, launched on 29th November, 2023, the Ministry of Mines conducted a roadshow here on 19th December, 2023, in the presence of Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Minister of state for Mines, Coal & Railways, Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve and Secretary, Ministry of Mines Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, senior officers of the Ministry, Industry Associations and PSUs. Over 45 companies, consultants and exploration agencies participated in the event. Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi also launched the National Geoscience Data Repository Portal (NGDR) during the event.

A total of 20 critical & strategic mineral blocks will be auctioned in the 1st tranche, out of which 16 mineral blocks are put up for grant of Composite Licence and four mineral blocks for grant of Mining Lease. The minerals include Graphite, Glauconite, Lithium, REE, Molybdenum, Nickel, Potash etc. The blocks are spread across the States of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and UT – Jammu & Kashmir.

Addressing the function, Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi appraised the efforts and initiatives undertaken by Ministry of Mines for increasing domestic production of minerals, meeting the goals of self-sufficiency as envisioned by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He emphasized how the Indian mining sector in general, and critical minerals in particular are significant in the present global context, underscoring priorities such as strengthening domestic production, fostering self-sufficiency, diminishing import reliance, advocating sustainable resource management, attracting investments in the mining sector and advancing key industries crucial for India's industrial and technological progress. The Government is committed to bring more critical mineral blocks to auction in a phased manner, the Minister added.

The Minister of State for Mines, Coal and Railways, Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve expressed optimism about the potential success of the initial phase of the critical minerals auction, seeing it as a positive stride toward establishing a dependable supply chain for these minerals, aligning with the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat and contributing to heightened economic growth. The Minister of State of Mines reiterated the government’s efforts to bring these blocks into auction and how the success of this auction process relies on the active participation from the industry. He called upon all the participants to demonstrate the highest standards of transparency, fairness and ethical practices throughout the auction process.

Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines gave insights about the steps taken by Ministry of Mines to increase the exploration activity carried out in the country and about the efforts to streamline the policy framework for multifaceted growth of the mineral sector. Secretary, Mines also responded to the queries of the participants and ensured all assistance from the Ministry for easy participation in the e-auction process. Shri Rao also encouraged the participants to give their suggestions for the e-auction process being conducted by Central Government..

Source : PIB

Published On : December 20, 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