Correct Answer :   Defense sector

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Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme to promote innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies, during DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on March 04, 2024.

Under the scheme, start-ups are eligible to receive grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for their research, development, and innovation endeavours in defence technology. “The scheme will nurture the innovation of youth, and help the country leap forward in the field of technology,” the Raksha Mantri said as he addressed a gathering of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and policymakers.

The ADITI scheme worth Rs 750 crore for the period 2023-24 to 2025-26 falls under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework of Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence.

It aims to develop about 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies in the proposed timeframe. It also envisages to create a ‘Technology Watch Tool’ to bridge the gap between the expectations and requirements of the modern Armed Forces and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem. In the first edition of ADITI, 17 challenges – Indian Army (3), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5) and Defence Space Agency (4) - have been launched.

Shri Rajnath Singh voiced Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s unwavering commitment to encourage the youth to bring forth innovative ideas. He asserted that to motivate young innovators, iDEX was expanded to iDEX Prime, with the assistance increasing from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore. Following the encouraging participation in providing solutions to the challenges given by the Services and DPSUs, ADITI scheme has now been launched, he said.

The Raksha Mantri stated that the idea behind the schemes/initiatives such as ADITI, iDEX, iDEX Prime is to also transform India into a knowledge society. “As times are changing, new technologies are coming into existence. To become a developed country, it is necessary for us to achieve a technological edge. We have to transform our country into a knowledge society,” he said.

The event also witnessed the launch of the 11th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC), heralding a new chapter in the collaboration between the defence establishment and the start-up ecosystem. The DISC 11 introduces 22 problem statements - Indian Army (4), Indian Navy (5), Indian Air Force (5), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (7) and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (1) - aimed at addressing critical defence challenges, inviting innovators to propose innovative solutions that can enhance the country’s defence capabilities and contribute to national security.

Shri Rajnath Singh described ‘getting a hold on state-of-the-art defence technology’ as the most crucial aspect to achieve self-reliance due to the increasing role of cutting-edge technology in warfare in today’s time. He stated that technology can be mastered either by adopting the latest innovation from other countries or by developing our own. The Government is working on both methods, he stressed..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   New Delhi

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Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya launched the AYUSH-ICMR Advanced Centre today (4th Mar 2024) in New Delhi for Integrated Health Research at AIIMS. The AYUSH-ICMR Advanced Centre's goal will be to provide holistic healthcare to patients by using both traditional Indian wisdom and modern medicine together.

These centers will be set up in various AIIMS locations such as AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, AIIMS Nagpur, and AIIMS Rishikesh. They will focus on important research areas to develop comprehensive treatment plans and guidelines.

Mr. Mandviya said, it IS more important to focus on our own traditional wisdom, even if it's not trendy. The Minister highlighted the importance of adding Ayurveda to regular healthcare, saying it is both culturally important and effective. He also praised AYUSH for their work over the past decade and encouraged young people to find inspiration in ancient texts.

The Minister also launched Indian Public Health Standards to ensure better healthcare quality. By following these standards, states can develop AYUSH services, making them accessible to everyone. The minister also revealed plans for a large study on anaemia at multiple locations..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   A Marine Species

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In February 2024, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered a new variety of sea slug mollusk off the coasts of Odisha and Bengal. It is named after the President Droupadi Murmu. This species mainly lives in marine habitats.

Naming the new sea slug mollusk :

* ZSI researchers have christened this sea slug 'Melanochlamys Droupadi'.
* This species from the Melanochlamys genus was discovered from the Digha (West Bengal coast) and Udaipur (Odisha coast).

The newly discovered species is found only in India :

* This recently identified species of head-shield sea slug is unique to India and is not present in any other part of the world.
* This is the 2nd species of head-shield sea slug found in India.
* The first species is Melanochlamys Bengalensis of the West Bengal and Odisha coast. Melanochlamy Benghalensis was found along the coast from Digha and Dhamra in the year 2022.

About Head-Shield Sea Slug ‘Melanochlamys Droupadi’ :

* It is a small, hermaphroditic invertebrate.
* Its maximum length is up to 7 mm.
* Their breeding season is from November to January. Its body is covered by a shell.
* It is brownish black in color and has a ruby red spot on its back.
* Its hind shield is long (about 61 percent of the body length).
* This species inhabits wet and soft sandy beaches, isolated from other species.
* It usually crawls into the intertidal zone of a sandy beach and leaves behind a crawling mark.
* The habitat of Melanochlamys draupadi is similar to that of Melanochlamys Bengalensis.
* Melanochlamy Benghalensis was discovered off the coast of Digha and Dhamra in 2022.
* Living Melanochlamys drupe animals continuously secrete transparent mucus to form a covering.
* This prevents sand particles from entering the parapodial space.

About Sea Slug :

* This name is given to marine creatures of different families of the phylum Mollusca. Mainly among these are the following : * Mud slugs are soft-bodied, without shells. They are fast hunters.
* They play the role of secondary consumers in the marine ecosystem.
* They prey on small animals such as ribbon worms, sea worms and small fish.
* 18 species of these have been discovered around the world.
* Most of the species in this group are found in temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific oceanic region;
* Its 15 species have been found in temperate regions.
* Its three species are found only in tropical regions.

Correct Answer :   UNEP

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The Global Resources Outlook 2024 report was launched during the Sixth United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) at the UNEP Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.

This is the flagship report of the International Resources Panel of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

UNEP is responsible for coordinating responses to environmental issues within the United Nations.

Correct Answer :   March 4

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National Safety Day is celebrated each year on March 4. In India, this date also signals the commencement of National Safety Week, extending the focus on safety measures beyond just a day. In 2024, National Safety Day will be observed on a Monday, marking a week-long endeavor to highlight and improve safety standards in various sectors.

National Safety Day, observed annually, underscores the critical importance of safety and precautionary measures across all sectors. It is a day dedicated to ensuring safe environments in workplaces and beyond, advocating for robust safety measures, and fostering awareness among people to adhere to these protocols. This observance is a cornerstone for promoting health and safety, encouraging every organization worldwide to adopt and emphasize the importance of safety precautions.

National Safety Day 2024 Theme :

The theme for National Safety Day 2024, “Safety for a Sustainable Future,” brings to light the intrinsic link between safety measures and sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of integrating safety into all aspects of life—be it at work, on the road, or within our homes. Prioritizing safety is not just about preventing accidents and ensuring well-being in the present; it’s about laying the groundwork for a sustainable future where everyone can thrive in a healthy and safe environment.

History of National Safety Day in India

The genesis of National Safety Day in India traces back to the establishment of the National Safety Council (NSC) on March 4, 1966. Commemorated for the first time in 1972, National Safety Day has since become an annual event aimed at promoting occupational safety and health awareness. The NSC endeavors to advance safety in the workplace, prevent accidents, and foster safe and healthy working conditions. It also focuses on raising awareness about occupational risks and hazards, and the preventative measures that can be taken to mitigate these dangers, collaborating with industries, government entities, and organizations to enhance safety and health practices.

The Significance of National Safety Day

* National Safety Day is a pivotal occasion in India, celebrated every year on March 4, for numerous reasons:

* Awareness and Education : It serves as an essential platform for disseminating information on safety practices, risks, and accident prevention strategies across industries, workplaces, homes, and public spaces.
Cultural Shift: The day encourages the development of a safety-conscious culture where every individual takes responsibility for safety, contributing to a significant reduction in accidents and injuries.
Recognition and Inspiration: Individuals and organizations making noteworthy contributions to safety promotion are recognized and honored, inspiring others to contribute towards creating a safer future.

Correct Answer :   Smriti Irani

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Union Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Zubin Irani on Sunday (3rd Mar 2024) launched the Haj Suvidha App that would provide necessary information and direct access to important services like training modules, flight details, and accommodation to those embarking on the annual pilgrimage.

Irani inaugurated a two-day Training of Trainers Programme as part of preparations for Haj 2024 at the Vigyan Bhavan here in the presence of Minister of State for Minority Affairs John Barla.

Haj Suvidha App Launch

Purpose : To streamline the Haj pilgrimage experience by offering direct access to essential services.

Features : Development : Implemented by BISAG-N under the guidance of the Union Minister for Minority Affairs.

Impact : Expected to simplify mundane tasks like travel arrangements and documentation, enabling pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.

Haj Guide-2024 Release

* Objective : To educate pilgrims about various aspects of the Haj pilgrimage and promote the effective utilization of the Haj Suvidha App.
* Languages : Published in 10 languages for widespread accessibility.
* Distribution : Will be issued to all Haj pilgrims to facilitate a better understanding of the pilgrimage process and the utilization of digital resources.

Training of Trainers Programme

* Purpose : To sensitize and educate trainers responsible for training Haj pilgrims.
* Attendance : More than 550 trainers from various states and Union Territories participated.
* Outcome : Aimed at ensuring a fulfilling pilgrimage experience by enhancing pilgrims’ awareness of different aspects of the journey..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Sarbananda Sonowal

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Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of MoPSW & AYUSH, virtually inaugurated the 60T bollard pull tug named ‘Ocean Grace’ and the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) on March 2, 2024. The Ocean Grace is the first Make-in-India ASTDS Tug developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under MoPSW. The MMU is part of the port’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.

1. Ocean Grace: A Milestone in Atmanirbhar Bharat :

* Cochin Shipyard Limited constructed the ‘Ocean Grace’, the first Make in India ASTDS Tug, promoting self-reliant India under MoPSW.


2. Medical Mobile Unit (MMU): Enhancing Healthcare Services :

* The MMU, dedicated alongside the Ocean Grace, offers a diverse range of healthcare services, underscoring the port’s dedication to community well-being.

Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP)

1. Vision for Green Tugs by 2030 :

* GTTP aims to convert 50% of all tugs into Green Tugs by 2030, with major ports transitioning to eco-friendly operations.

2. Procurement of Green Tugs :

* JNPA, DPA, PPA, and VoCPA will procure two brand-new green tugs from Cochin Shipyard by 2027 as part of the initial phase.

Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047

1. Decarbonisation Initiatives :

* Initiatives include the development and deployment of cutting-edge technology vessels, such as electric water taxis, hybrid ferries, and LNG-electric cargo carriers.


2. Sustainable Practices :

* The vision encompasses the incorporation of green hydrogen and ammonia-powered vessels at major ports, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability.

Correct Answer :   Amit Shah

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Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC) in New Delhi. This umbrella organization aims to modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector, benefiting banks and customers alike.

Key Points :

1. Focus on Modernization and Expansion :


2. Inclusive Economic Development :


3. Trustworthiness and Growth :

4. Role of NUCFDC :

5. Strengthening Collective Strength :


6. Addressing Challenges :


7. Future Goals :

Correct Answer :   March 3

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World Hearing Day 2024 will be held on Sunday, March 3. On this day, efforts are directed towards countering common misperceptions regarding ear and hearing problems in communities and among healthcare providers.

The day emphasises the importance of accurate information to alter public perceptions and calls on countries and civil society to tackle misperceptions related to hearing loss for equitable access to ear and hearing care

World Hearing Day 2024 Theme :  

* The theme for World Hearing Day 2024 is "Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all!"

* This theme underscores the importance of addressing societal misperceptions related to ear and hearing care.

World Hearing Day 2024 History :  

* The roots of World Hearing Day can be traced back to the First International Conference on Prevention and Rehabilitation of Hearing Impairment in Beijing, China, in 2007.

* The conference marked the initiation of global endeavours to address hearing-related issues. In 2014, the World Health Assembly designated March 3 as World Hearing Day. The chosen date, symbolic of the shape of two ears, has since become an annual occasion to spotlight hearing care and the impact of hearing loss on individuals and communities.

World Hearing Day 2024 Significance :

* World Hearing Day holds immense significance in promoting global awareness about hearing loss and its impact. The day underscores the importance of early detection and intervention, advocating for improved access to hearing care services, and fostering collaborations to address challenges related to hearing loss.

* By reducing stigma, advocating for access to care, and highlighting the economic impact of hearing loss, World Hearing Day contributes to creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy good hearing health..

Source : NDTV

Correct Answer :   March 3

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World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect and preserve the world’s fauna and flora. In 2024, this day draws particular attention to the role of digital innovation in wildlife conservation, underlining the theme “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.” This occasion is not only a celebration but a global call to action, urging individuals, communities, and governments worldwide to engage in practices that contribute to the sustainability of our planet’s biodiversity.

World Wildlife Day-History and Background :

The inception of World Wildlife Day traces back to a proposal made by Thailand to the United Nations General Assembly in 2013. The proposal aimed at dedicating a day to raise awareness about the world’s wild animals and plants. Consequently, March 3 was officially designated as World Wildlife Day in 2014, following the adoption of a resolution by the General Assembly on December 20, 2013. This date also marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Significance of World Wildlife Day 2024 :

The significance of World Wildlife Day has never been more pronounced. Amidst the escalating challenges of biodiversity loss, habitat destruction, and climate change, this day offers a critical platform for raising awareness and mobilizing action. It underscores the intrinsic value of wildlife and the indispensable role it plays in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting human well-being.

World Wildlife Day 2024 Theme :

The theme for World Wildlife Day 2024, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” highlights the potential of technology in advancing conservation efforts. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s digital era, where technological advancements can offer novel solutions to longstanding conservation challenges. Digital tools and platforms have the power to enhance monitoring and protection efforts, support sustainable wildlife trade practices, and foster positive human-wildlife relations.