Correct Answer :   Ram Nath Kovind

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'One Nation One Election' Committee Chairman Ram Nath Kovind held a consultation meeting with members of Republican Party of India-Athawale (RPI) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in New Delhi.

In September 2023, the central government formed this committee under the leadership of former President Ramnath Kovind.

Correct Answer :   Bangladesh

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India and Bangladesh were declared joint winners of the SAFF U-19 Women's Championship following a massive controversy on Thursday. After the teams were tied at 11-11 in the penalty shoot-out, India were declared winners via a coin toss but the decision was not accepted well by the crowd or the Bangladesh team. Huge protests followed both from the team as well as the home crowd and after some time, the decision was taken to declare both India and Bangladesh joint winners.

The match ended 1-1 in regulation time and after India were declared winners, the crowd expressed their displeasure by throwing bottles and other objects. The officials quickly escorted the Indian players out of the field and after around two hours of deliberation, the decision was taken to award the trophy to both the teams.

AIFF Acting Secretary General, M Satyanarayan said: "India, despite being declared winners after the spin of the coin, decided to accept the officials' request for sharing the trophy as the situation was simmering and a section of the home fans was found indulging in creating disturbances. Since the security of the players and other team officials is our utmost priority, the AIFF decided to agree to the request of the organisers."

India led for the majority of the contest, riding on Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam's early goal before Sagorika equalised for the hosts in injury time to take it into penalties. After an extraordinary shoot-out which remained locked at 11-11 as every single player on the pitch converted their penalties, the referee performed a coin toss to determine the winners.

While Bangladesh edged India in possession in the first half, it was the Young Tigresses who were more incisive going forward. When Sulanjana Raul released Neha into acres of space before goalkeeper Swarna Rani Mandal swept the ball off her feet in the second minute, it was a sign of things to come.

Understandably, the final generated considerable interest in the local football circle. With the prospect of Bangladesh winning a back-to-back title looming large, a big crowd thronged the stadium long before the final started.

They came with drums and bugles, flags and banners. The festive mood of the partisan crowd, however, received a stunning blow when India took the lead off another well-constructed move as captain Nitu Linda showed exemplary vision to release Sibani behind the Bangladesh defence. The pacy winger was clever enough to dodge it the first time over the onrushing Swarna. Sibani could have added another just minutes later, as her half-volley sailed inches above the crossbar.

India, however, failed to defend the lead and conceded the equaliser well into the add-on time of the second half. Linda's headed clearance fell onto the path of Sagorika, who slotted it past Anika, a carbon copy of her goal against India in the group stage at exactly the same minute - 93rd..

Source : Sports

Correct Answer :   Etihad Airways

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Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings have added Etihad Airways as an official sponsor.

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Correct Answer :   Agriculture

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, 9th Feb 2024 announced that Dr. MS Swaminathan, known for his pivtol role in the Green Revolution, will be conferred the highest civilian award Bharat Ratna.

He said that Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity.

The Prime Minister posted on X :

“It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs.”

It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in… pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024

Source : PM India

Correct Answer :   Sarathi portal

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Agriculture minister Arjun Munda on Thursday (8th Feb 2024) launched portal 'Sarathi' that aims to provide a comprehensive suite of insurance products including PMFBY, tailored explicitly for farmers and rural population of India. To strengthen grievance redressal mechanism of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), the minister also launched the Krishi Rakshak portal and helpline number 14447 to enable farmers to lodge their concerns.

A learning material system about PMFBY, Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MIIS) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) was also launched for stakeholders implementing these schemes across the country.

After launching the three new initiatives, the agriculture minister said, "Our ministry is working together to turn India into a Viksit Bharat (developed nation). We are moving ahead with times adopting digital technology. The initiatives will surely benefit the farmers."

Ministers of state for agriculture Kailash Choudhary and Sobha Karanladje, agriculture secretary Manoj Ahuja, and joint secretary and CEO of PMFBY Ritesh Chauhan were also present at the event.

Sharing details about portal Sarathi (Sandbox for Agricultural and Rural Security, Technology and Insurance), PMFBY CEO said it will offer a digitized insurance journey, simplifying the process for farmers.

The portal will be a single-window platform for viewing, purchasing, and availing insurance products. The platform will have digital payment options and streamlined premium collection, effortless claim initiation, tracking and resolution besides user-friendly interfaces for stakeholders..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Naveen Tahiliani

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Tata Digital, the superapp from Tata Sons, on Tuesday (6th Feb 2024) announced the appointment of Naveen Tahilyani, as chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD).

Tahilyani replaces Pratik Pal, who was at the helm since the Tata group announced its foray into digital commerce and the creation of the Tata Neu supperapp.

Tahilyani is currently the CEO and MD of Tata AIA Life Insurance Company.

Tata Digital said Tahilyani comes with a strong understanding of the Indian consumer landscape and extensive experience in the financial services sector. He has a proven track record of driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and achieving operational excellence.

N. Chandrasekaran, chairman, Tata Sons, said : “Pratik has been successfully leading the company since its inception and led the Tata group’s foray into digital commerce. I would like to thank Pratik for his significant contribution to Tata Digital.”

He further added “I am delighted to welcome Naveen to Tata Digital. Naveen brings in a strong understanding of the consumer domain and has a very successful track record of leadership. I wish Naveen success in his new role.”

Naveen will take up his new role from February 19, 2024.

 The company also said Pal will continue to be with the company.

“Given Pratik’s background and strong contribution to Tata Digital, he will continue in Tata Digital to ensure continuity and contribute with his wealth of experience to the organisation,” said the statement.

Pal’s stepping down comes at a very crucial time, as the company is trying to make its mark in the digital ecommerce space.

Other than trying to gain market share, the firm has also seen several exits in the recent past. According to a report, it has 90 million Neupass members.

“Tata digital is yet to make its presence felt in the digital commerce space. Tahilyani brings the required consumer focus that is required in a digital commerce company,” said a source in the know..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Uttarakhand

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The Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Uttarakhand, Bill 2024, which seeks to “govern and regulate the laws related to marriage and divorce, successions, live-in relationships, and matters related thereto” was passed in the Assembly Wednesday (7th Feb 2024) following a two-day discussion. The Bill will now be sent to President Droupadi Murmu for her assent after which it will become a law.

Introduced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Tuesday (6th feb 2024), deliberations were held on the UCC Bill before the House approved it by a voice vote. Uttarakhand is now poised to become the first state to get a common law on marriage, divorce, land, property and inheritance for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. The code, however, will not apply to the Scheduled Tribes.

Although Goa is governed by a UCC (Portuguese Civil Code), the Assembly did not pass any law. The code was retained after its liberation in 1961.

“Today this special Bill, which was long awaited by the people of the country, was passed in the Vidhan Sabha of Devbhoomi. I express my gratitude to all the members of the Vidhan Sabha,” said Dhami and reiterated the UCC’s commitment to foster progress for everyone.

On Opposition’s allegation that the Bill is aimed at extracting political mileage before the Lok Sabha polls, he said the BJP had promised to implement the UCC in the run-up to the 2022 elections.

“This is the day of fulfilling that promise and should not be seen as anything else… This is not tushtikaran (appeasement) but santushtikaran (satisfaction). This is also the empowerment of women,” he said, emphasising on the exceptional nature of the UCC, calling it “a dream set to materialise in Uttarakhand and transcend ordinary legislative measures”.

He underscored the meticulous process undertaken by the five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court judge Justice (retd) Ranjana Prakash Desai, for around two years to prepare a comprehensive report. The panel held 43 dialogue sessions and 72 meetings statewide, as well as engagement with migrants. He exuded confidence that the UCC would rectify past wrongs and provide true equality while condemning the “divisive forces that undermine the Constitution’s principles”..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   Dharmendra Pradhan

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Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme on 6th February 2024 in New Delhi. Secretary, Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy; Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Shri Sanjay Kumar; Executive Director, EdCIL, Dr. Chandrashekhar; and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

While speaking at the event Shri Pradhan said that, as envisioned in the NEP 2020, the Vidyanjali Scholarship Program symbolises a whole-of-society approach to empowerment through access and opportunities of education, particularly to students belonging to economically disadvantaged sections.

He commended the efforts of students of NVS and mentioned that nearly 14,000 students have succeeded in getting admission to reputed institutes including IITs, NITs, etc. without joining any coaching centres. Many students come from marginalised families. He also added that 70 students are being bestowed upon the scholarship amounting to Rs. 5 crore.

He mentioned that nation-building is a collective effort of all citizens and it was heartwarming to see the corporates enthusiastically coming forward to support and sponsor academically gifted and meritorious students lacking the financial means to pursue education. The philanthropic gesture of our donor organisations will inspire many more of our corporates to empower needy students as well as ignite the flame of education, Shri Pradhan said.

While speaking at the event Shri K. Sanjay Murthy informed how the initiative has started with the implementation of NEP2020 recommending policies to channel philanthropy towards the education sector. He commended the efforts of the JNV students who have succeeded in entering premier institutes like IITs and NITs and also acknowledged the contribution of the sponsors who have helped in realise their dreams. He also hoped that more such sponsors would come forward to support students in their endeavours.

Shri Sanjay Kumar in his address emphasized that students of Navodaya Vidyalaya consistently perform well in Board exams, every year. Nearly 85% of the students studying in these schools come from economically weaker families from the rural areas, he added. Acknowledging the able leadership of the Union Education Minister, he emphasized that these schools are testimony to the fact that academic achievements are agnostic of the background one may come from. Good pedagogy and opportunities can help the students outshine anyone, he highlighted. He also informed that following the suggestions of the Minister, this year Summer Camps will be organized for the students to inspire them in skilling activities and invited sponsors to come forward to extend their support.

The Minister interacted with six JNV students and five corporate CSR sponsors. A short film on the Vidyanjali scholarship scheme was shown during the event. Five significant MoUs were exchanged between CSR sponsors/impact founders including Fiat India, HDFC Bank Limited, ClearMedi Healthcare, Bharat Forge, and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation showcasing the joining of forces between the Government and private sector towards a shared vision of nation-building and empowering the future workforce of this country. The innovative Vidyanjali Fintech Platform/portal was launched during the event. The Minister also presented scholarship letters to six meritorious NVS students.

The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme, in alignment with the National Education Policy 2020, is a powerful force aimed at revolutionizing opportunities for quality education and access to higher education institutions. Going beyond mere enrolment, this initiative guarantees access to high-quality learning systems by facilitating a seamless transition from secondary to higher education and extending financial support for the meritorious Navodaya Vidyalaya students who lack means. In addition to extending financial assistance to economically marginalised and meritorious students of Navodaya Vidyalayas, this endeavour by the Government of India also encourages involvement from the private sector through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, thereby making way of joining forces between the Government and corporates towards an educated India, ensuring no child is left behind. The Minister presented scholarship letters to six NVS students.

The event will strengthen the Government’s efforts in fostering educational inclusivity and socio-economic upliftment in the country..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Kazakhstan

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Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree appointing Olzhas Bektenov as the new Prime Minister of Kazakhstan.

Bektenov, formerly the head of the President’s Executive Office since April of the previous year, assumed his new role following his relief from the executive office position.

During the plenary meeting of the Mazhilis, the lower chamber of the Kazakh Parliament, Bektenov’s candidacy, nominated by the Amanat party, received significant support from the majority of deputies. In accordance with Article 44 of the Constitution, President Tokayev held consultations on Bektenov’s candidacy with the leaders of party factions, including Yelnur Beisenbayev of the Amanat Party, Maharram Maharramov of the People’s Party of Kazakhstan, Azat Peruashev of the Aq Jol Democratic Party, Askhat Rakhimzhanov of the National Social Democratic Party, Serik Yegizbayev of the Auyl party, and Aidarbek Khojanazarov of the Respublica party, as reported by The Astana Times.

President Tokayev emphasised the need for the government to play a crucial role in making prompt and effective decisions. Alikhan Smailov, who had been serving as Prime Minister since January 2022, resigned, and Tokayev accepted his resignation, acknowledging the stability achieved across various sectors under Smailov’s leadership.

Bektenov outlined the priority tasks for his government, emphasizing the necessity of providing a new economic impetus and implementing decisive measures. The focus will be on economic development, with special attention to the industry and oil sectors. The government under Bektenov’s leadership aims to stimulate domestic production, increase the share of locally-made products through the full launch of offtake contracts, and support domestic businesses.

In addition, Bektenov pledged to explore the potential of agriculture, water resources, energy saving, and the transport and logistics network. He expressed a commitment to expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies while ensuring the rule of law for the benefit of the country.

President Tokayev signed a decree on February 5 for the dismissal of the government, marking the end of Alikhan Smailov’s term as Prime Minister, The Astana Times reported. (ANI)

© ANI

Correct Answer :   Australia

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External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is set to attend the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Australia, scheduled to take place from February 9-10 in Perth. The theme of the conference is "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean."

Dr. Jaishankar will speak at the inaugural session of the conference alongside Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka; Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia; and Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore.

The 7th Indian Ocean Conference will host delegations led by ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and 6 multilateral organizations. Moreover, more than 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries are expected to participate.

Organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs in association with the India Foundation, the Indian Ocean Conference serves as a consultative forum for countries in the Indian Ocean region. Since its inception in 2016 in Singapore, the conference has been instrumental in bringing together regional countries and maritime partners to discuss opportunities for regional cooperation under the theme of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)..

Source : DD News