Correct Answer :   12,000

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Sports Development and Youth Welfare Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Wednesday (31st Jan 2024) announced that the State government would launch an initiative called the ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’, under which sports equipment would be distributed in 12,000 village panchayats to mark former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi’s birth centenary.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the sixth edition of Khelo India at Kalaivanar Arangam in Chennai, Mr. Udhayanidhi said he would inaugurate the scheme in Tiruchi on February 7, 2024.

“Just as our government is providing books to students to study, we will also provide sports equipment to youngsters to succeed in sports. If medals and prizes are meant for winners, for those who don’t win, the experience they gain is their medal. Our government, under the visionary leadership of our Chief Minister, has consistently highlighted the importance of sports in our society,” he said.

Mr. Udhayanidhi said Khelo India 2023 had helped identify many sportspersons who can compete and win in the international arena.

“Over the past 13 days, our State has been proud to host over 5,400 talented athletes from across the country showcasing their sporting skills in various disciplines. I congratulate the sportspersons from Maharashtra, which has secured the first position; Tamil Nadu, which has secured the second place; and Haryana, which is placed third. Tamil Nadu had more than 600 athletes, and this is the first time it has stood in the top 3 in the history of Khelo India Games,” he said.

Union Minister for Sports, Youth Affairs and Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, said the 2023 edition of Khelo India Games held unique significance as it marked the first time the games were hosted by a southern State.

“With every Khelo India Youth Games, we have grown in stature, and 4,454 young athletes competed in 26 diverse sports. I am proud to say that 2,307 men and 2,147 women have participated in the games,” he said.

Mr. Thakur congratulated athletes from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Haryana for securing the top three spots.

HR&CE Minister Sekarbabu, Central Chennai MP Dayanidhi Maran, and MLAs I. Paranthamen and R. Murthy were among those present..

Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   Surat Airport

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This decision follows the Union Cabinet's approval in December, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to designate Surat Airport as International Airport.

Surat Airport in Gujarat has been officially designated as an ‘International Airport’ by the Indian government, according to a ministry of civil aviation statement shared by news agency ANI.

“It is hereby declared that Surat Airport in Gujarat as an International Airport with immediate effect,” the ministry said in its statement.

The Government of India notifies that Gujarat's Surat airport is declared as an international airport. pic.twitter.com/UDXIHgJk9U

— ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2024

This decision follows the Union Cabinet's approval in December, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to designate Surat Airport as International Airport.

The ministry of civil aviation in its December statement said that the transformation of Surat Airport into an international facility is not only aimed at serving as a gateway for global travellers but also aims to streamline import-export operations for the thriving diamond and textile industries. This strategic decision is expected to unlock unprecedented economic potential, positioning Surat as a significant player in the international aviation landscape and ushering in a new era of prosperity for the region.

According to the ministry, the elevation of Surat Airport to international status holds great significance in enhancing economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening diplomatic ties. The expected increase in both passenger traffic and cargo operations with the airport's international designation is seen as a pivotal driver for regional development.

New terminal for domestic flight operations :

Last December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new terminal at Surat Airport constructed for ?353 crore, specifically designed for domestic operations. Officials said that Surat Airport boasts a runway measuring 2906 X 45 meters, capable of accommodating Code 'C' type aircraft, along with a terminal building covering an area of 8474 square meters.

The upgraded terminal's facade is crafted to enhance the passenger experience, featuring rich and traditional woodwork reminiscent of the old houses in the 'Rander' region of Surat City.

The new airport terminal incorporates various sustainability features, including an insulated Roofing System, energy-saving Canopies, a heat Gain Double Glazing Unit, Rainwater Harvesting, a water treatment plant, a Sewage treatment plant, and the utilisation of recycled water for landscaping and a solar power plant, among other eco-friendly measures..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   01 February

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Every year on February 1st, India celebrates the Indian Coast Guard Day, a tribute to the valour, dedication, and service of the personnel safeguarding the country’s maritime interests. The day honours the relentless efforts of the Coast Guard officers and personnel in maintaining maritime security and responding to emergencies at sea. In 2024, the Indian Coast Guard will commemorate its 48th Raising Day, marking nearly half a century of its commitment to the nation’s coastal defence.

A Salute to the Guardians of the Sea :

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day celebration on January 26, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu approved the prestigious President’s Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medal for selected awardees of the Indian Coast Guard. These awards recognize the extraordinary bravery and service of Coast Guard personnel in protecting India’s maritime boundaries and their proactive response to emergencies at sea.

The History and Significance of the Indian Coast Guard :

Established on February 1, 1977, the Indian Coast Guard was created to combat sea-borne smuggling, which was adversely affecting the Indian economy. Since its inception, the Coast Guard’s responsibilities have expanded to encompass offshore security, marine safety, coastal security, and the safeguarding of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Recognized by the Parliament on August 18, 1978, February 1st was officially designated as Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Day.

The Indian Coast Guard is lauded as the fourth largest in the world, according to the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. The synergy between the Coast Guard, the Indian Navy, the Customs Department, and the Police forms the backbone of India’s maritime security network. The Coast Guard operates across various regions, including the North-West region in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the East region in Chennai, and the North East region in Kolkata, as well as the strategic Andaman and Nicobar regions.

Indian Coast Guard Day 2024, Theme of the Year :

The Indian Coast Guard Day is celebrated annually under a specific theme chosen by the administration, symbolizing the focus and vision for the year. The theme for the 2024 celebration, however, is yet to be announced. The chosen theme will undoubtedly reflect the Coast Guard’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and enhanced maritime cooperation.

Correct Answer :   Uttar Pradesh

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The Uttar Pradesh government, as part of its mission to eradicate filariasis from the state, will launch the annual mass drug administration (MDA) campaign from 10th February to 28th February 2024 in 17 districts of the state.

During this campaign, proficient health workers will conduct door-to-door visits, administering filariasis prevention medication to the entire population, with the exclusion of children under two years of age, pregnant women, and those facing serious illnesses.

It may be noted that the central government has set a targeted deadline of 2027 for the complete elimination of filariasis from the country.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has appealed to all residents to actively partake in the consumption of filariasis prevention medicine during the MDA rounds. Symptoms of this grave disease, caused by Culex mosquito bites, typically manifest 5 to 15 years after infection, leading to conditions like hydrocele and swelling in the extremities and breasts.

He has also urged everyone to consider themselves susceptible to filariasis, advocating for preventive medicine intake and securing the upcoming generation from this ailment. Emphasizing the safety of the medicine, he has encouraged its consumption even in the absence of visible symptoms, citing it as a societal imperative.

Yogi has underscored the irreversible nature of the disease once contracted, with management being the only recourse. The government is resolute in its commitment, providing training and kits for the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) of filariasis patients. Thus, preventive medicine intake becomes imperative in averting the onset of the disease.

The Yogi government remains steadfast in its commitment to the mission of rendering the state filariasis-free. A key facet of this initiative involves the rigorous training of Community Health Officers (CHO) stationed at Ayushman Bharat Arogya Mandir (Health and Wellness Centers) to adeptly identify filariasis patients.

As of June 2023 the state grapples with 51 filariasis endemic districts identifying 90,768 lymphatic filariasis and 21,131 hydrocele patients. The upcoming MDA rounds, scheduled from February 10 to 28, will target districts including Amethi, Azamgarh, Ballia, Banda, Barabanki, Bareilly, Hamirpur, Jaunpur, Jalaun, Lucknow, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Prayagraj, Pratapgarh, Sonbhadra, Unnao, and Varanasi for filariasis elimination.

Besides, in Amethi, Azamgarh, Ballia, Banda, Bareilly, Lucknow, Pratapgarh, Prayagraj, Unnao, and Varanasi, a triple-drug combination (Ivermectin, DEC, and Albendazole) will be administered, while in Ballia, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jaunpur, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, and Sonbhadra, a double drug combination (DEC and Albendazole) will be administered. .


Source : UN India

Correct Answer :   Jai Shah

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Indian cricket board (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah will continue to head the Asian Cricket Council. His reappointment as the continental body's chief was unanimously agreed upon during the ACC Annual General Meeting in Bali on Wednesday, January 31, 2024.

Jay Shah was appointed as the president of the Asian Cricket Council for the first time in 2021 when he replaced Nazmul Hassan in January that year. His tenure as the ACC president was extended until 2024 January. At 32 in 2021, Jay Shah had become the youngest administrator to take over the ACC chief role.

Jay Shah will continue to serve as the ACC chief for another two years. He served out his first two-year term in 2021-22 and was reappointed as the ACC chief in 2023.

Jay Shah has led the Asian Cricket Council through a tough phase as the Covid-19 pandemic had its impact on world cricket. The men's Asia Cup was held in 2022 in the UAE after it was moved out of Sri Lanka due to the island nation's financial crisis. Shah also oversaw the adoption of a hybrid model for men's Asia Cup 2023, which was played in the 50-over format, as the tournament was co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Jay Shah has been serving as the honourable secretary of the BCCI, having worked with Sourav Ganguly and now with Roger Binny, who took over as the board president last year.

The Asian Cricket Council, for the first time in 2023, announced a 2-year fixture list with tournaments for men, women and age-group teams.

The ACC announced the Women's T20 Asia Cup which will be held in September 2024. The Emerging Asia Cup for men and women was brought back last year. The ACC had also announced U19 Asia Cup tournaments in 2023 and 2024.

The next edition of the men's Asia Cup is expected to return to T20 format..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Paytm Payment Bank

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Reserve Bank of India has imposed restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank and barred the entity from offering incremental banking services effective March 2024, due to concerns regarding breach of and compliance with regulatory norms.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has ordered Paytm Payments Bank, an associate of One 97 Communications (PAYT.NS), opens new tab, to stop accepting fresh deposits in its accounts or popular wallets from March, in a major blow to one of the country's largest payments firms.

Paytm will take steps immediately to comply with the RBI's directions, the fintech company said in a statement on Thursday (1st Feb 2024). As a result, it expects a worst-case impact of 3 billion Indian rupees ($36.12 million) to 5 billion rupees to its annual earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA).

One 97 will cease working with Paytm Payments Bank and start working only with other banks, it said.

The company has been informed that the RBI's action does not impact user deposits in their savings account, wallets, FASTags and NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) accounts, where they can continue to use existing balances, the statement added.

The RBI had in 2022 asked the bank to stop adding customers. A subsequent audit revealed "persistent non-compliances and continued material supervisory concerns in the bank", the central bank said on Wednesday, without disclosing details.

The regulator used a legal provision that allows it to act in the interest of depositors, and did not specify a timeline for reviewing the restrictions imposed on the bank.

"For all practical purposes, the above notifications end the operations of Paytm Payments Bank," Bernstein said in a note on Wednesday evening.

"This is a definite negative development and adds to the already heavy regulatory overhang on the business," Bernstein analysts said..

Source : Reuters

Correct Answer :   Ministry of Defense

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Interim Budget 2024 on February 1, in which the Ministry of Defence has received the lion's share in the with an allocation of ?6.2 lakh crore. On the other hand, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare has received the lowest allocation out of all the sectors at ?1.27 lakh crore.

Followed by the defence ministry, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has received the second-highest allocation at ?2.78 lakh crore and the Railway Ministry has been allocated ?2.55 lakh crore.

Sitharaman revealed the government's ambitious plan to create a corpus of ?1 lakh crore to propel private investment in sunrise technologies. This corpus will herald what the Finance Minister described as a "golden era for our tech-savvy youth."

The corpus will be established through a fifty-year interest-free loan, providing a substantial financial boost to foster innovation and research in emerging technology sectors, according to the minister.

Sitharaman emphasized that the long-term financing or refinancing with extended tenors and low or nil interest rates will encourage the private sector to significantly upscale their efforts in research and innovation across sunrise domains.

This was the sixth budget presented by Nirmala Sitharaman and the last one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's second term. The budget focused on fiscal consolidation, infra, agri, green growth, and railways. However, no changes were made in the tax rates, which was a disappointment to salaried individuals.

Since 2024 is an election year, with Lok Sabha Elections expected in April-May, the finance minister unveiled an Interim Budget or a Vote on Account in February, rather than a comprehensive annual budget. After the formation of the new government, the new full Budget is expected in July this year (2024)..

Source : Mint

Correct Answer :   Mangalore

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The inaugural Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest will be held from February 16th to 18th, marking an important milestone in the region's entrepreneurial landscape. This event, which focuses on nurturing and promoting new ventures, promises to serve as a catalyst for Mangalore's burgeoning startup ecosystem.

Drawing Inspiration From Success :

* Designed After The South Summit : The festival's organizers hope to replicate the success of Spain's renowned South Summit in Mangalore. They hope to bring new energy and enthusiasm to the local startup scene by implementing tried-and-true strategies and best practices.

Tapasya Beach Festival :

* The Platform Of Innovation :  The Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest, organized by Tapasya Beach Festival (TBF), is poised to become a hub of creativity and innovation. Beyond just showcasing startups, it aims to foster meaningful connections, spark innovation, and instill an entrepreneurial spirit in participants.

Vishwas YUS Shares Insights On How To Strengthen The Startup Ecosystem :

Vishwas YUS, the regional director of the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA) in India, underscores the fest’s broader mission of consolidating the startup ecosystem. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event aims to foster startup growth and success.

Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Expert Insights And Skill Development :

The fest's agenda includes sessions led by industry experts who provide invaluable insights into critical topics such as skill development, intellectual property rights (IPR), and the complexities of starting a business. This knowledge-sharing platform provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to navigate the startup landscape successfully.

Showcasing Innovation Through Student Participation And Startup Presentations :

One of the festival's highlights is the opportunity for students to present their innovative ideas. With approximately 20 startups expected to present their concepts, the event promises a wide range of ground-breaking innovations across multiple domains.

Explore Emerging Technologies-  AI, IPR, And Beyond :

In keeping with the changing technological landscape, the festival will include dedicated sessions on cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence (AI), intellectual property rights (IPR), and technology transfer. These sessions provide an opportunity for participants to stay up to date on the latest developments and trends affecting their respective industries.

Doctor Vishal Rao's Endorsement And Support :

Doctor Vishal Rao, a prominent scientific advisor to the central government and the state's vision group, has supported the festival. His endorsement, combined with IFIA and the International Startup Foundation's collaboration, emphasizes the event's importance and potential to inspire and empower emerging startups.

The Effects Of The Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest :

The Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest holds enormous potential as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the local startup ecosystem. With its ambitious agenda and robust support system, it is poised to make a long-term impact on Mangalore's entrepreneurial landscape and elsewhere.

Correct Answer :   3

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3 Young Indian-Origin Scientists To Be Honored With Prestigious Blavatnik Award 2024 In London on 27 February 2024. This award will be given to them for their excellent work in chemistry, physics and life sciences.

Indian scientist honoured with 'Blavatnik Award':

Out of the total nine scientists honoured with the Blavatnik Award, three are young scientists of Indian origin. Mainly among them :

By whom are these awards given?

* This award is given by ‘Blavatnik Family Foundation’ and ‘The New York Academy of Sciences’. This award is mainly given to young scientists for their research work. These selected young scientists will be honoured in a ceremony organised on 27 February 2024 for their research work in various fields of science.

* He will be honoured at a ceremony at the Banquet House in London. They will be awarded a total of £480,000 as prizes.

* The day after the awards ceremony in London, the honorees will present their research with a series of short, interactive lectures at a public symposium at RSA House in London.

Research grants to Professor Rahul Nair :

* Professor Rahul R. Nair is a material physicist at the University of Manchester. Professor Nair has been named the winner for developing new membranes based on 2D materials.

* The membranes developed by Nair will pioneer energy-efficient separation and filtration technologies.

* Professor Nair will be provided a grant of one lakh pounds to continue his research.

Malik honoured for quantum communication :

* Malik, a physics professor, has been named as the laureate for advancing quantum communications through his groundbreaking techniques.

Tanmay Bharat honoured for state-of-the-art technology in Cryo-ET :

* Dr. Tanmay Bharat is a young biologist in Britain. Dr. Tanmay has created atomic-level pictures of cell-surface molecules produced by microscopic bacteria and archaea.

* Dr. Tanmay was honoured for developing state-of-the-art technology in electron cryotomography (Cryo-ET) for this work.

* Both Professor Mehul Malik and Dr. Tanmay Bharat will be provided 30 thousand pounds for their research work.

About the Blavatnik Award :

* The Blavatnik Awards recognise the most innovative young faculty-rank scientists and engineers.

* These awards are given for work in the three disciplinary categories of Life Sciences, Physics and Engineering and Chemistry.

* This award is mainly given to young scientists for their past achievements and future prospects.

* In the United States, the Blavatnik National Award honours the most innovative young faculty-rank scientists and engineers.

Correct Answer :   Tamil Nadu

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Tamil Nadu has set a new benchmark in environmental conservation and biodiversity protection by securing two more Ramsar sites, thus achieving the highest number of such designated areas in the country. The recent addition of the Longwood Shola Reserve Forest in The Nilgiris and the Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary in Ariyalur has propelled the state to the forefront of ecological conservation efforts in India. With these new designations, Tamil Nadu now boasts 16 Ramsar sites, a testament to its rich biodiversity and the state government’s commitment to preserving it.

Understanding Ramsar Sites :

Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. These sites are recognized for their ecological significance, biodiversity richness, and the role they play in supporting human life and environmental health.

New Additions to Tamil Nadu’s Conservation Legacy :

* Longwood Shola Reserve Forest: A Biodiversity Haven : The Longwood Shola Reserve Forest spans 116.07 hectares in The Nilgiris and is celebrated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. This verdant reserve is home to over 700 species of flora and fauna, including 177 bird species, 14 of which are endemic to the Western Ghats. The reserve’s diverse herpetofauna, several species of which are endemic and considered threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), underscores its ecological importance. Longwood Shola not only contributes to the biodiversity of the fragile Nilgiris ecosystem but also serves as a critical water source for Kotagiri and 18 downstream villages.

* Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary: A Crucial Stopover for Migratory Birds : Covering 453.7 hectares, the Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary is nestled in Ariyalur and stands as another Important Bird and Biodiversity Area in Tamil Nadu. The sanctuary is a sanctuary for over 500 species of flora and fauna and plays a pivotal role in the Central Asian Flyway, acting as a vital breeding and foraging ground for waterbirds. Its designation as a Ramsar site acknowledges its significance in avian conservation and the protection of migratory pathways.

A Commitment to Sustainable Management :

Following these designations, the Tamil Nadu government, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India, has embarked on preparing integrated management plans for its Ramsar sites. This initiative aims to ensure the sustainable conservation of these wetlands, safeguarding their biodiversity and ecological functions for future generations.

Tamil Nadu’s Leading Role in Wetland Conservation :

The recognition of Longwood Shola and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary as Ramsar sites is a significant achievement for Tamil Nadu. It highlights the state’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its role as a leader in the conservation of India’s natural heritage. These designations not only contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts but also enhance the state’s ecological resilience and the well-being of its communities.

As Tamil Nadu continues to prioritize the protection of its unique ecosystems, the addition of these Ramsar sites serves as a beacon of hope for conservationists worldwide. It underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving our planet’s invaluable wetlands and the myriad life forms they support.