Correct Answer :   November 14

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World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14 every year to spread awareness about the health condition that affects millions of people across the world. It is a global observance day aimed at highlighting and supporting all efforts towards containing this disease.

Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the blood sugar level gets too high. It is generally developed when the pancreas doesn’t create enough insulin or any at all, or when the body isn’t responding to the effects of insulin properly. Diabetes can affect people of all ages. Most forms of diabetes are chronic and last for a long while most of such forms are manageable with medications and lifestyle changes.

Diabetes Day  History and Significance :

* World Diabetes Day was established by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991. After the establishment, it was declared a global day in 2006 after the United Nations passed a resolution.

* November 14, the birth anniversary of Sir Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin with Charles Best in 1922, was chosen as World Diabetes Day.

* The day marks the significance of reaching the maximum number of people globally to promote a platform to cure diabetes and its treatment. A blue circle logo was initiated by the UN, in 2007, as a global symbol to create awareness regarding the condition and the community associated with it.


World Diabetes Day 2023 Theme :

The theme for World Diabetes Day 2023 is ‘Access to diabetes care’ which will emphasise the importance of equal access to essential care and treatment for diabetes..


Source : CNBC

Correct Answer :   Ashok Leyland

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Ashok Leyland becomes the first Indian Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to unveil an in-house LNG engine compliant with BSVI Stage II emission standards.

The AVTR 1922, powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), is built on the AVTR platform and shares a high degree of commonality with Ashok Leyland's existing diesel truck range. This ensures that our customers benefit from streamlined service and maintenance processes.

Sanjeev Kumar, President- MHCV, Ashok Leyland, said, “Our steadfast commitment revolves around the dynamic needs of customers in the ever-evolving world of sustainable transportation.

For over a decade, we have been at the forefront of the alternative energy landscape, beginning with our groundbreaking CNG buses.

We firmly believe that our innovations in alternate energy space will not only provide eco-conscious solutions but also ensure long-term profitability for our esteemed customers.”

With this significant milestone, Ashok Leyland further strengthens its extensive product portfolio by venturing into the alternate fuel segment, setting new standards in the Indian commercial vehicle industry..


Source : Auto Carpro

Correct Answer :   117th

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India is ranked 117th in the list of 129 countries in the world in the inclusiveness index published by the Othering and Belonging Institute (OBI) at California University, United States. Smaller countries like Bangladesh (106) and Israel (115) were placed better than India.

The index examines inclusivity in terms of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and the general population using several measures.

The measures include out-group violence, political representation, income inequality, anti-discrimination laws, rate of incarceration, and immigration/ asylum policies, as per a release from OBI.

India was ranked last (129) in religion inclusiveness, 121st in gender, 108th in disability, 87th in race, 40th in the general population, and 39th in LGBTQ.

Villupuram MP D Ravikumar said the BJP-led Union government instead of brushing aside the findings and declaring that the study was an attempt to tarnish the image of the country globally must take concrete action to set right the inequality.

New Zealand finished first in the index for the second consecutive year. Portugal recorded its best showing by securing second place (up from 5th place in 2022) followed by the Netherlands in the third place.

Iran was placed at the bottom of the global list. Yemen, which has been devastated by the Saudi-led invasion performed poorly followed by the Comoros Islands, a former French colony located off the southeastern coast of Africa.

OBI has been publishing the inclusiveness index from 2016 ranking the countries by their levels of inclusion using a number of indicators. This year for the first time, OBI included an indicator for a country’s response to the climate crisis by considering its change in greenhouse gas emissions..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   November 14th

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Children’s Day in India is celebrated every year on November 14th. This date was chosen to honor the birthday of India’s first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, a leader who deeply cherished children and believed in their potential to shape the nation’s future. This day, known as Bal Diwas, is dedicated to raising awareness about children’s rights and well-being.

Children’s Day is a special time to honor the legacy of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and advocate for the well-being of the nation’s future leaders. By celebrating the innocence and potential of children, this day serves as a reminder to invest in their rights and education, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for India.


Children’s Day 2023 Theme :

The theme of 2023 Children’s Day, ‘For every child, every right’, underscores the commitment to uphold the rights of every child worldwide. It calls for a collective effort from individuals, communities and governments to create a nurturing environment that fosters the physical, mental and emotional development of the younger generation.


Children’s Day History :

* Children’s Day in India has a rich history, closely tied to the influential role of Jawaharlal Nehru. Born on November 14, 1889, Nehru’s commitment to children’s well-being and education laid the foundation for this special day.

* The journey of Children’s Day dates back to November 5, 1948, initially observed as “Flower Day.” However, it wasn’t until 1954 that the day officially transitioned into Children’s Day, coinciding with Nehru’s birthday. This shift marked a symbolic acknowledgment of Nehru’s dedication to the cause of children and their rights.

* After Nehru’s passing in 1964, the significance of Children’s Day grew stronger. In the same year, the first official celebration of Children’s Day took place, serving as a heartfelt tribute to Nehru’s tireless advocacy for children’s rights and education. This event marked the beginning of an annual tradition that continues to resonate across the country.

* Children’s Day, celebrated on November 14th, stands as a testament to Nehru’s belief that children are the architects of the nation’s future. The history of this day reflects a commitment to fostering an environment where every child is granted the opportunity for a bright and prosperous future, in line with Nehru’s vision for India.

Children’s Day 2023 Significance :

* Honoring Nehru’s Legacy : Children’s Day in India is celebrated on November 14th, marking the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first prime minister. Nehru’s fondness for children and his vision of a prosperous future led to the establishment of this day. Celebrating Children’s Day on his birthday serves as a tribute to his commitment to children’s rights and education.

* Raising Awareness : The day is a platform to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by children, including access to healthcare and education. By highlighting these issues, Children’s Day aims to garner support and attention for initiatives that can improve the overall well-being of the younger generation.

* Focusing on Rights and Welfare : Children’s Day emphasizes the importance of ensuring that every child has the right to a healthy and nurturing environment. It draws attention to the need for proper healthcare, education, and protection from exploitation, contributing to the overall development of children.

* Celebrating Innocence and Joy : Beyond advocacy, Children’s Day is a celebration of the innocence, joy, and exuberance that define childhood. It provides an opportunity for children to enjoy a day of fun and festivities, fostering a positive and memorable environment for them.

* Inspiring Future Generations : The core idea behind Children’s Day is encapsulated in Nehru’s belief that the children of today shape the India of tomorrow. By celebrating and investing in the well-being of children, society ensures the development of responsible and capable future citizens.

* Encouraging Positive Initiatives : Children’s Day encourages schools, communities, and policymakers to initiate positive programs and policies that directly benefit children. It serves as a reminder for everyone to prioritize the needs of children and work collectively towards creating a nurturing and supportive environment for their growth.innocence and potential of children, this day serves as a reminder to invest in their rights and education, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for India.

Correct Answer :   13th November 2023

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Lala Kedarnath Aggarwal, who once sold bhujia and rasgullas in buckets on the streets of old Delhi before establishing sweets and snacks brand Bikanervala, passed away on Monday (13th November 2023). He was 86.

The demise of Aggarwal, fondly known as Kakaji, ''marked the end of an era that has enriched palates and touched countless lives,'' Bikanervala said in a statement.

The company operates more than 60 outlets in India and has presence in countries such as the USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Nepal and the UAE.

'Kakaji's departure is not just a loss to Bikanervala; it's a void in the culinary landscape. His vision and leadership will forever guide our culinary journey,'' said the group's Managing Director Shyam Sunder Aggarwal.

Kedarnath Aggarwal started his entrepreneurial journey in Delhi.

Hailing from Bikaner, his family owned a sweet shop in the bylanes of the city since 1905. The shop was named as Bikaner Namkeen Bhandar and used to sell a few varieties of sweets and snacks.

Aggarwal, who had larger ambitions, migrated to Delhi in the early 50s along with his brother Satyanarayan Aggarwal, bringing his family recipe to the city.

Initially, both struggled with carrying buckets filled with bhujia and rasgulla, selling in the streets of old Delhi. However, the Aggarwal brothers' hard work and the unique taste of Bikaner soon gained recognition and acceptance among the people of Delhi.

Later Aggarwal brothers set up a shop in Delhi's Chandini Chowk, where they used their family recipes which were handed down from generation to generation.

Bikaner Namkeen Bhandar soon became famous for its Moong Dal Halwa, Bikaneri Bhujia and Kaju Katli, amongst others. The two brothers and the shop soon became popular as Bikanervala..

Source : Business Today

Correct Answer :   Anupriya Patel

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The 42nd edition of the India International Trade Fair -2023 was inaugurated at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi 14th Nov 2023. The fair will continue till 27th Nov 2023.
 
Inaugurating the Trade Fair, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry "Anupriya Patel" said that the participation of over 3500 exhibitors shows the confidence of the world in India.

She said, the 42nd edition of the India International Trade Fair will facilitate trade and investment which will further promote economic growth and development of the country.

Ms. Patel said that India is the most attractive destination for investment and the country is set to become the 3rd largest economy in the coming times.

She further added, in the last 10 years, the government has made several policy interventions to create an industry environment.

She said the fair will remain meaningful in creating awareness of various social issues and in providing impetus to business transactions, joint ventures, and investment opportunities in the country.
 
The theme of the fourteen-day fair is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam which emphasizes the significance of interconnectedness and cooperation in trade for achieving sustainable growth and well-being.
 
The first five days of the Trade Fair will be reserved for business category and it will open for the general public from the 19th of November 2023.

Bihar and Kerala are the Partner States while Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are the Focus States.

The representatives from 13 countries are also participating in the fair.
 
The timings of the fair will be from 10 A.M. to 7.30 PM. Visitors can purchase the tickets online and also from select 55 metro stations. Entry will be free for Divyang and Senior citizens..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   $400 Million

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The Indian government on Monday (13th Nov 2023) signed a USD 400 million policy-based loan with the Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support its urban reform agenda to create high-quality urban infrastructure, improve service delivery, and promote efficient governance systems.

The signatories to the loan agreement for sub-programme 2 of the Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme were Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs and Takeo Konishi, Country Director of ADB’s India Resident Mission.

While Sub-programme 1 approved in 2021 with a financing of USD 350 million established national-level policies and guidelines to improve urban services, Sub-programme 2 supports investment planning and reform actions at the state and urban local body (ULB) levels, the finance ministry said in a statement.

After signing the loan agreement, Mukherjee stated that the programme supports the government's urban sector strategy with a focus on reforms aimed at making cities livable and centres of economic growth through the provisioning of inclusive, resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

Sub-programme 2 supports the reforms initiated by states and ULBs in operationalising the national flagship programme of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 targeted for universal access to water supply and sanitation, said Konishi.

The sub-programme also supports other mission objectives for ensuring urban water security through reducing water losses, recycling treated sewage for non-domestic use, rejuvenation of water bodies, and maintaining sustainable groundwater levels, the statement said.

The programme also envisages integrated urban planning reforms to control urban sprawls and foster systemic and planned urbanisation through enhancing the entire ecosystem of legal, regulatory, and institutional reforms, along with capacity building of ULBs and community awareness, it said...

Source : Outlook India

Correct Answer :   5%

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The Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has announced a groundbreaking target for its 14 member airlines, including newly inducted Air India, to achieved 5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage by 2030. This move aims to address the aviation industry’s carbon emissions challenges, signaling a significant demand for sustainable fuel production.
 

Challenges and Significance :

Despite the commendable goal, the aviation industry faces challenges such as limited SAF availability and cost implications. The AAPA emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, stressing that the industry is “feedstock and pathway agnostic.” This means that sustainable feedstock for aviation fuel is available globally in the form of waste, agricultural and forestry residues. However, the transition requires support from oil majors, as well as governmental subsidies and incentives.


Global Mandates and Supply Concerns :

While some regions, like the European Union (EU), have implemented mandates for sustainable aviation fuel usage, the AAPA highlights the importance of ensuring an adequate supply before enforcing such mandates without a stable supply of SAF may not be effective. Airlines are eager to embrace sustainable solutions, but the current supply is insufficient to meet the demand.


National Initiatives in India :

India has also taken steps toward promoting sustainable aviation fuel. In May, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in India expressed its intention to mandate 1% SAF use by domestic carriers by 2025. The civil aviation ministry has further outlined plans to increase the blending of sustainable aviation fuel to 2% by 2026 and 5% by 2030. However, these mandates may face challenges if the supply side is not adequately addressed.

Industry Perspective on Price Differential :

Member airlines, including Cathay Pacific, stress the need for a policy framework that minimizes the prize differential between traditional jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuel. Achieving a level playing field is crucial for airlines committed to sustainability, as the cost of green fuel remains higher fossil jet fuel. Airlines, such as Cathay Pacific, have set ambitious targets, with a commitment to 10% SAF usage by 2030.


Progress in India and Global Impact :

India has witnessed SAF demonstration flights, including one by Spice Jet in 2018 and Air Asia India in May 2023, marking the country’s first domestic commercial passenger flight with SAF blending up to 1%. These initiatives contribute to the global efforts to address aviation’s environmental impact, as the sector currently contributes 3% of global carbon emissions.


Global Targets and Progress :

In 2016, the International Civil Aviation Organization set a carbon-neutral growth target starting from 2019 and aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. Despite progress, SAF production, which reached approximately 300 million liters in 2022, represents only 0.1% of total aviation fuel use, according to the International Air Transport Association. The industry faces the challenge of scaling up production to meet ambitious targets.

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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On 15 November 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the PM-PVTG Development Mission, a groundbreaking scheme aimed at fostering the comprehensive development of approximately 28 lakh people belonging to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

This significant event is scheduled to coincide with the birth anniversary celebration of the revered tribal freedom fighter, Birsa Munda, observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas for the past three years.


Historic Visit to Ulihatu Village :

* The launch ceremony is strategically planned to take place in Jharkhand’s Khunti district, specifically after a visit to Ulihatu village, the birthplace of Birsa Munda.
* This visit will mark a historic moment as Prime Minister Modi becomes the first sitting Prime Minister to visit this village.
* Last year, on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, President Droupadi Murmu made history by being the first President to visit Ulihatu village.


PM-PVTG Mission and Development Initiatives :

* The PM-PVTG Development Mission aims to address the critical needs of the 75 PVTG communities residing in over 22,000 remote villages across 18 States and Union Territories.
* The focus areas include power, water, road connectivity, housing, education, and healthcare.
* This comprehensive approach aligns with the government’s commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra :

* Simultaneously, Prime Minister Modi is expected to launch the “Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra” from Khunti, with the ambitious goal of achieving saturation of flagship government schemes across the country.
* This Yatra will commence from tribal-dominated districts, aiming to cover all districts by January 2024.
* The initiative reflects the government’s dedication to extending the benefits of its schemes to the remotest corners of the nation.


Multi-Sectoral Development Projects :

* During his visit to Jharkhand, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth ₹7,200 crore in crucial sectors such as rail, road, education, coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
Additionally, he will release the 15th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme, further contributing to the agricultural well-being of the nation.


Implementation Strategy :

* To ensure the success of the PM-PVTG Development Mission, government officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs have been actively visiting PVTG villages across the country over the past six months.
* Their observations will inform the immediate needs of these communities, facilitating a targeted and prioritized implementation of the scheme.

Saturation of Key Schemes :

* Concerted efforts will be made in PVTG villages to achieve the saturation of vital schemes.
* These schemes include PM-Jan Arogya Yojana, Sickle-Cell Elimination Campaign, TB Elimination Campaign, 100% immunization, PM Surakshit Matritva Yojana, PM Matru Vandana Yojana, PM Poshan, PM Jan Dhan Yojana, among others.
* This approach aims to comprehensively address the diverse needs of the PVTG population.


Financial Commitment :

* While initially budgeted at ₹15,000 crore over three years, the government has now allocated ₹24,000 crore for the PM-PVTG Development Mission.
* This financial commitment underscores the government’s determination to bring about substantial positive change in the lives of PVTG communities.


Concerns and Responses :

* Despite the government’s push for the PM-PVTG mission, a House Panel on the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes expressed concerns about the budgeting, noting the lack of current data on the total population of PVTGs in the country.
* The government’s responsive approach ensures that concerns are duly addressed for the successful implementation of the scheme.

Correct Answer :   Jio

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Jio Satellite Communications Ltd and Eutelsat OneWeb have been granted the requisite licences to provide satellite internet services in India.

Both companies hold the GMPCS (Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite) licence, alongside a pan-India ISP (Internet Service Provider) licence.

As reported by the Financial Express, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) allocated ISP-A and a VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) licence to OneWeb on Wednesday. The report states that Jio secured the ISP licence in October.

However, a significant challenge faced by both companies revolves around the satellite spectrum, which is currently a subject of internal government debate.

There are differing opinions within the government on whether the spectrum should be allocated administratively or through an auction process.

Jio showcased JioSpaceFiber at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2023, while Airtel's booth featured solutions from Eutelsat OneWeb.

It is evident that Jio Satellite Communications and Eutelsat OneWeb are poised to be the first companies to launch satellite internet services in India, with a primary focus on enterprises. Their current emphasis is not on providing services to consumers.

Meanwhile, Amazon and Starlink are also in the process of obtaining the GMPCS licence in India. Starlink is anticipated to secure the licence soon.

The Elon Musk-owned Starlink is already operational in various countries, delivering seamless internet services via satellites. In India, the company faced setbacks when attempting to sell pre-bookings without the necessary licences. Authorities instructed Starlink to refund customers and cease pre-booking sales until proper licences were acquired..

Source : Business Today