Correct Answer :   Kuwait

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Kuwait held its first election under Emir Sheikh Meshal, focusing on economic reforms amidst government-parliament deadlock. This election is significant as Kuwait aims to address fiscal challenges and reduce reliance on oil revenue.

Correct Answer :   April 5th

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‘International Conscience Day’ is celebrated every year on 5 April. This day is celebrated to remind people to introspect, follow their conscience and do the right thing.

The theme of International Day of Conscience 2024 :

The theme for the International Day of Conscience in 2024 is ‘Promoting a Culture of Peace with Love and Conscience’. This theme emphasizes the importance of cultivating a global mindset focused on peace, compassion, and moral integrity.

History of International Day of Conscience :

* The inaugural International Day of Conscience was first commemorated in 2020 by the United Nations General Assembly. This annual observance was established to encourage people around the world to introspect, follow their conscience, and do what is right.

* In 2024, the global community will celebrate the fifth United Nations International Day of Conscience. This milestone marks five years of dedicated efforts to raise awareness about the power of individual and collective conscience in shaping a more just, harmonious, and sustainable world.

Importance of International Conscience Day International Conscience Day holds great significance for several reasons:

* Preventing Harm : The day is celebrated to highlight the importance of discretion and moral conscience in preventing people from harming others verbally, physically, sexually, or mentally. It underscores the role of individual and societal conscience in upholding human dignity and rights.

* Upholding Human Rights : International Conscience Day emphasizes that everyone has the fundamental right to self-respect, peace, and security. It serves as a reminder that disregard for human rights has historically led to “barbaric acts” that have “offended the conscience of mankind,” as stated in the Preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

* Defining and Condemning Anti-Human Acts : On this occasion, scholars define and condemn acts that are considered antithetical to human values and wellbeing. The goal is to raise public awareness and discourage such harmful practices through education and moral advocacy.

* Promoting a Culture of Peace : International Conscience Day is also linked to the broader movement for a global “culture of peace.” This concept emerged from a 1989 UNESCO congress in Côte d’Ivoire and has since evolved into a meaningful objective for the international community.

Correct Answer :   April 5th

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Every year, April 5th is observed as National Maritime Day to spread awareness about international trade and economy. On this day, the "NMD Award of Excellence" is also presented to honour the individuals for their lifetime distinguished and exceptional achievements in the Indian maritime sector at the senior level.

The maritime sector plays an immense role when it comes to international trade and the economy. Ships are mainly used for transportation purposes of goods across the border. Even within a country ships play pivotal roles in the transportation of goods and people.

Every year, this day is celebrated to mark the importance of the national maritime sector in world trade and economic exchange across the industry as senior officers have played significant roles in the development of this industry.

National Maritime Day Theme 2024 :

The theme for National Maritime Day 2024 is "Navigating the future: safety first!"

National Maritime Day History :

History was created in navigation in India when SS Loyalty, the first ship of The Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd journeyed to the United Kingdom, which was a crucial step in India's shipping history as the sea routes were earlier controlled by the British. This day was first observed on April 5, 1964, informing people and spreading awareness about intercontinental commerce and the economy worldwide. Since then it has been observed every year on the same day.

National Maritime Day Significance :

This day is celebrated every year to spread awareness and recognise the efforts and contribution of India's maritime sector to enhancing the country's economic growth and development. This sector faces multiple challenges like piracy, environmental pollution, and changing trade dynamics. This day aims to draw attention to the struggles of this industry and come together to find effective solutions. The NMD Award of Excellence is given to the senior officials for their contributions to developing the maritime sector. The day inspires the younger generation to pursue a career in the industry.

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   6.5%

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to keep the key repo rate unchanged at 6.5% as its focus remains on bringing inflation under control.

This is the 7th straight time that the central bank's 6-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to keep the key policy rates unchanged.

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said the MPC voted in favour of keeping the key lending rates unchanged.

“After a detailed assessment of the evolving macroeconomic and financial developments and the outlook, the Reserve Bank MPC decided by a majority of 5 to 1 to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.50%," Das said.

It may be noted that the standing deposit facility (SDF) also remains unchanged at 6.25% and the marginal standing facility at 6.75%.

The decision was largely in line with what economists had predicted.

Das said in his monetary policy statement that the priority of monetary policy continues to be the achievement of the 4% inflation target amidst robust growth.

He also highlighted the need for the monetary policy to maintain an actively disinflationary stance at this stage.

Upasna Bhardwaj, chief economist at Kotak Mahindra Bank told news agency Reuters that the MPC maintained status quo on expected lines. "While low core inflation provides comfort, the uncertainty on food inflation remains a worry," she said..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   100 billion Euros

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NATO foreign ministers met on Wednesday (3rd April 2024) to discuss how to put military support for Ukraine on a long-term footing, including a proposal for a 100 billion euro ($107 billion) five-year fund and a plan seen as a way to “Trump-proof” aid for Kyiv.

The proposals by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg would give the Western alliance a more direct role in coordinating the supply of arms, ammunition and equipment to Ukraine as it fights Russia’s invasion, diplomats say.

The plans will be discussed during a two-day meeting in Brussels that will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and prepare for a July summit of alliance leaders in Washington..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   Rakesh Mohan

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The World Bank Group has appointed former Reserve Bank of India deputy governor Rakesh Mohan member of the Economic Advisory Panel, according to a statement released by New Delhi-based think tank Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP).
 
Currently, Mohan is serving as president emeritus and distinguished fellow at CSEP and is also part-time member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council.
 
The World Bank panel will be chaired by Lord Nicholas Stern, the IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government at the London School of Economics, while World Bank Group Chief Economist Indermit Gill will co-chair the panel.

According to the CSEP statement, the panel will focus on strategic issues for the World Bank Group in relation to their objectives, research agenda and actions.
 

“The panel will also provide advice on key issues that may arise with respect to the World Bank’s research and policy outputs. Each panel member will serve for two years,” said the press statement.
 
Previously, Mohan worked as executive director on the board of the International Monetary Fund, as economic affairs secretary and chief economic adviser in the Finance Ministry, and economic adviser in the industry ministry.
 
Mohan also served as senior fellow at the Jackson Institute for Global Affairs, Yale University, and was professor in the practice of international economics and finance at the School of Management from 2010 to 2012..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   April 4th

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International Day for Mine Awareness Day is being observed on 4th April. It is celebrated annually to raise public attention towards mine action activities, the land mines, its threats to the safety of mankind and how to work towards its elimination.

The theme for International Day for Mine Awareness 2024 is Protecting Lives, Building Peace. It focuses on the survivors of the explosive hazards with disabilities and the ones living with disabilities in conflict.

United Nations-supported platforms, like every year on this day, organise and carry out initiatives to reduce the threat caused by mines and explosives.

Correct Answer :   April 2, 2024

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Veteran Tamil actor "Visheshwara Rao" passed away on 2nd April 2024 at the age of 64. He died due to complications from cancer, which he had been battling for the last few years. Rao was undergoing treatment for the disease at a private hospital in Chennai when he breathed his last.

Acting Career :

* Rao started his acting career as a child artiste at the age of six. He went on to find popularity for playing supporting roles in Tamil films. One of his most well-known roles was that of Laila’s innocent father in the Suriya-starrer Pithamagan. The jail scene from the film, featuring Laila’s famous dialogue “Loosa Pa Nee,” is considered one of the iconic moments of Rao’s acting career.

* Rao was also known for his brief but memorable role as an annoying shop owner in Madhavan’s Evano Oruvan. Over the course of his long career, he has acted in around 300 films, including several Telugu movies where he played comedian roles.

Recent Losses in the Tamil Film Industry :

* Rao’s passing comes on the heels of the recent deaths of other prominent Tamil actors, including Seshu of Lollu Sabha fame, who succumbed to a heart attack, and Daniel Balaji, known for his roles in Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu and Vada Chennai, who also died of a heart attack at the age of 48.

* The untimely demise of these veteran actors has left the Tamil film industry and its fans in a state of sorrow. Visheshwara Rao’s contribution to the industry, particularly through his supporting roles, will be deeply missed.

Correct Answer :   2047

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In line with its ambitions for a sustainable energy future, India aims to ramp up its nuclear power production significantly, targeting a capacity of 1 lakh MW by 2047. This objective, outlined in a report titled ‘Synchronising Energy Transitions Towards Possible Net Zero for India: Affordable and Clean Energy for All,’ highlights the nation’s commitment to expanding its nuclear energy sector.

Vision for Amrit Kaal: Department of Atomic Energy’s Strategy :

The Department of Atomic Energy is charting a vision document for ‘Amrit Kaal,’ outlining plans to achieve a nuclear capacity of approximately 100 GW by 2047. This roadmap involves leveraging various types of reactors and fostering international collaboration to meet energy demands sustainably.

Diverse Nuclear Technologies: Key Contributors to the Target :

Breeder reactors, light water reactors, and pressurized heavy water reactors constitute the backbone of India’s nuclear energy expansion strategy. Breeder reactors are poised to contribute 3 GW of nuclear power, while international cooperation will facilitate the deployment of 17.6 GW of light water reactors. Additionally, pressurized heavy water reactors are expected to contribute significantly, with an estimated 40-45 GW of power generation.

Recommendations for Energy Transition :

The report underscores the necessity of infrastructure development to support alternative energy sources and advocates for a flexible grid to accommodate renewable energy expansion. Additionally, it suggests exploring carbon dioxide removal technologies as a contingency plan if coal dependency persists, emphasizing the importance of mitigating carbon emissions in India’s energy transition.

Understanding Nuclear Energy: Types of Reactors :

Nuclear energy derives from atom cores through fission, a process of splitting nuclei. India predominantly utilizes pressurized water reactors (PWRs), boiling water reactors (BWRs), and pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) for power generation. Each reactor type offers distinct advantages and applications in India’s nuclear energy landscape.

Correct Answer :   Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe, along with Zambia and Malawi, has declared a state of disaster due to a severe drought sweeping across southern Africa. President Emmerson Mnangagwa cited an “El Nino-induced drought” causing below-normal rainfall, affecting over 80% of the country. This drought, exacerbated by climate change, has led to dire food shortages and humanitarian crises across the region.

President’s Declaration and Call for Aid :

President Mnangagwa made the emergency declaration, emphasizing the need for $2 billion in humanitarian aid to address the crisis. He stressed the urgency of securing food for all Zimbabweans, with approximately 2.7 million people at risk of hunger. The government appeals to UN agencies, local businesses, and faith organizations to contribute to humanitarian assistance efforts.

Impact on Population and Response Efforts :

Millions of people in Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia are in need of food assistance due to devastated harvests. With more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s population residing in rural areas, where they grow their food, the situation is dire. The UN’s World Food Programme has initiated a food assistance program, but aid may not reach all vulnerable populations.

Regional Crisis and Future Projections :

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) estimates that 20 million people in southern Africa require food relief, with needs extending into early 2025. Areas of highest concern include Zimbabwe, southern Malawi, parts of Mozambique, and southern Madagascar. The impact of El Nino is expected to prolong the crisis, highlighting the necessity of sustained international support and intervention.