Correct Answer :   August 26th

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International Dog Day is observed as a special occasion to celebrated every year on August 26 in several countries. This day aims to recognise the important role that a dog plays in our lives.


International Dog Day History :

International Dog Day has been observed since 2004, when a pet lover, Colleen Paige, celebrated the day as a way to raise awareness about dog shelters. Since then, International Dog Day has become a global celebration for all pet lovers who participate in events and activities to honour their pets and also to raise awareness about humans' best friends. Paige is also the founder of National Cat Day and National Pet Day.

International Dog Day 2023 Significance :

* International Dog Day is observed to highlight the conditions of hundreds of dogs who are in need of being rescued as they are deprived of proper care. The main aim of International Dog Day is to encourage people to take care of these needy animals.

* On this day, people are encouraged to adopt stray dogs and also raise awareness about the problems facing them. Additionally, the message that this day conveys is to tell people to provide a safe, loving and caring environment for all dogs.

* The purpose of this day is to spread awareness about dogs' lives and to encourage the same, a theme is set to disseminate among pet lovers.

* If you’re an animal lover who wants to adopt a furry friend, you need to understand some key points prior to making such a crucial decision.

Here are some of the necessary considerations that one needs to make before adopting a dog :

* Make sure that you will be able to handle the financial expenses of keeping a dog.
* Take your time with the pet, as they will become a part of the family after the adoption.
* No more last-minute weekend getaways, as you will have a pet to take care of. Otherwise, you’ll need to plan and find a dog sitter or dog boarder in your vicinity.
* Dogs need to get outdoors and in the backyard, so you will need to take care of your pet’s walk every day for the betterment of their health.
* You'll have to bear with dog hair everywhere in your house when you adopt a dog. If you are a cleanliness freak, then you might find it irritating.

Correct Answer :   Uttar Pradesh

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The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet on Tuesday (22nd August 2023) approved developing 18 Atal Residential Schools along the lines of the centre-run Navodaya Vidyalayas at a cost of Rs 1,250 crore.

* The Cabinet, which met at the home of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, approved 23 proposals, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna told reporters.

* Khanna said the state government will spend Rs 1,250 crore on the Atal Residential Schools, to come up in all 18 divisions of Uttar Pradesh.

* “The capacity of these schools will be 1,000 students, including 500 girls and as many boys. It will have classes from six to 12. Children whose studies were affected by Covid-19 pandemic can also get admission to these schools,” he said.

* These schools will act as centres of excellence, Khanna added.

* The Cabinet also approved purchasing 25 lakh smartphones, to be distributed free of cost to students under the Swami Vivekananda Youth Empowerment Scheme, the minister said.

* In another important decision, the Chief Minister’s Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, which will benefit 10 lakh people, was approved. The beneficiaries will get Rs 9,000 during the training.

* Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi said six dairy plants of the Pradesh Cooperative Dairy Federation will be leased out for 10 years. These plants are located in Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Noida, Prayagraj, Azamgarh and Moradabad.

* The Cabinet also approved regulations for biodiesel production and marketing..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   24 August 2023

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Veteran Marathi actress Seema Deo, who was seen in films like Anand, Koshish and Kora Kagaz, passed away on 24 August 2023. Seema Deo acted in nearly 90 Hindi and Marathi movies in a career spanning over six decades from the black-and-white to the colour era of the Indian film industry.

She is hugely remembered for her major role in the musical blockbuster ‘Anand’, along with her husband Ramesh, and Amitabh Bachchan among other actors. Some of her renowned Marathi films are ‘Jagachya Pathivar’, ‘Vardakshina’, among many others. She was last seen in ‘Jivan Sandhya’ released in 2021.


Seema Deo’s career :

* She was born Nalini Saraf on March 27, 1942, in Girgaum, Mumbai.
* She made her film debut in the Marathi film “Jagachya Pathivar” in 1962.
* She went on to act in over 90 Hindi and Marathi films, including “Anand” (1971), “Kora Kagaz” (1974), “Apradh” (1975), “Janaki” (1977), “Bezubaan” (1980), “Koshish” (1982), and “Sansar” (1987).
* She was married to actor Ramesh Deo from 1966 until his death in 2021. They had two sons, actor Ajinkya Deo and director Abhinay Deo.
* She was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2022.
* Seema Deo was a versatile actress who could play a wide range of roles. She was known for her gentle and graceful persona, and she often played the role of the sweet sister, daughter-in-law, or mother. However, she was also capable of playing strong and complex characters, as evidenced by her performance in “Anand”.

* She was a dedicated and hardworking actress who was passionate about her craft. She will be remembered as a talented and accomplished actor who made significant contributions to Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Here are some of her notable films :

* Jagachya Pathivar (1962)
* Anand (1971)
* Kora Kagaz (1974)
* Apradh (1975)
* Janaki (1977)
* Bezubaan (1980)
* Koshish (1982)
* Sansar (1987)
* Jivan Sandhya (2021)

Correct Answer :   ₹19,000 Crore

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The Defence Ministry on Friday (25 August 2023) signed a contract with Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. (HSL), Visakhapatnam, for the acquisition of five fleet support ships (FSS) for the Indian Navy at an approximate cost of ₹19,000 crore.

The ships in the 44,000-tonnes category will be the first of their kind to be built in India by an Indian shipyard.


A New Horizon in Naval Operations :

The Fleet Support Ships (FSS) serve a crucial role in maritime operations by facilitating the replenishment of ships at sea. These vessels, weighing an impressive 44,000 tonnes each, are equipped to provide essential resources such as fuel, water, ammunition, and supplies to naval fleets on extended missions. This capability to operate independently for extended periods will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s reach and effectiveness, particularly in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Strategic Impact on Indian Naval Fleet :

The acquisition of these cutting-edge Fleet Support Ships holds immense strategic significance. With the capability to support multiple fleets, including aircraft carriers and other warships, these FSS vessels will play a pivotal role in ensuring sustained operations across various naval assets. The FSS vessels possess the remarkable capacity to carry between 20,000 to 25,000 tonnes of fuel and water, which can be a game-changer in naval logistics.


Timeline and Expansion Plans :

According to sources within the Navy, the delivery of the first FSS is expected to commence four years after the signing of the contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). Subsequently, the remaining vessels will be commissioned at intervals of ten months. The Navy envisions the integration of a total of eight Fleet Support Ships over the next decade, augmenting its fleet of tanker vessels. Presently, the Navy operates four existing tankers, with two stationed on the East Coast and the remaining two on the West Coast.

Strengthening National Industry and ‘Make in India’ Initiative :

This landmark contract not only elevates the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities but also resonates with the ‘Make in India‘ initiative and the nation’s aspiration for self-reliance. The Ministry of Defence highlighted that the majority of equipment and systems for the FSS vessels would be sourced from indigenous manufacturers, thus fostering the growth of the Indian shipbuilding industry and supporting associated sectors, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).


Hindustan Shipyard Limited’s Role and Expertise :

Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), a prominent entity in India’s maritime landscape, is entrusted with the monumental task of constructing these groundbreaking Fleet Support Ships. The shipyard boasts an impressive track record, having constructed 200 vessels, refitted five submarines, and repaired around 2,000 vessels of various types. As part of the contract, HSL is set to modernize its facilities to accommodate the significant demands of this venture while ensuring its other ongoing operations continue seamlessly..

Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   Indore

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The India Smart Cities Awards 2022, organized by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, have recognized Indore as the best city and Madhya Pradesh as the best state in the Smart Cities Mission. The awards celebrate the progress and achievements of cities and states in promoting sustainable development and enhancing the quality of urban life across India.


Top City and State Recognized :

* Best City Award: Indore has been named the best city in the India Smart Cities Awards 2022. The city has a remarkable track record, being consistently ranked as the cleanest city in the Swachh Bharat Mission for six consecutive years.
* Best State Award: Madhya Pradesh has been recognized as the best state in the Smart Cities Mission. The state has shown significant commitment to urban development through the implementation of multi-sectoral projects aimed at improving citizens’ quality of life.


Top Smart Cities :

* Second Best City: Surat secured the second position among the smart cities for its notable efforts in urban development.
* Third Best City: Agra claimed the third spot for its initiatives contributing to the Smart Cities Mission.

State Rankings :

* Second Best State: Tamil Nadu was placed second among the states, reflecting its strides in urban development and sustainable projects.
* Shared Third Best State: Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh shared the third position among the states for their contributions to the Smart Cities Mission.


Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCC) :

* All 100 Smart Cities have operational Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCC), which serve as the urban management nerve center. These centers have enhanced urban services, including crime tracking, safety measures, transport management, waste management, water supply, and disaster management.


ISAC Awards and Its Goals :

* The India Smart Cities Awards aim to recognize and reward cities, projects, and ideas that contribute to sustainable development and enhance the overall quality of life for urban residents.
* The awards promote inclusivity, equity, safety, health, and collaboration among cities.

Award Categories and Winning Projects :

* Built Environment Category: Coimbatore’s model roads and restoration of lakes project was recognized as the top project in this category.
* Economy Category: Jabalpur’s incubation center project was awarded the top position for its economic impact.
* Mobility Category: Chandigarh’s public bike-sharing initiative stood out in the mobility category.
* Governance Category: Chandigarh also excelled in the governance category, specifically in e-governance services.
* Union Territory Category: Chandigarh received the overall award for being the best Union Territory in the India Smart Cities Awards.


Progress of Smart Cities Mission :

* The Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, has seen significant achievements. The 100 selected cities have completed 76% of the proposed projects worth Rs. 1.10 lakh crore.
* The remaining projects, valued at Rs. 60,095 crore, are expected to be completed by June 30, 2024. The deadline was extended to accommodate the completion of projects due to the COVID-19 pandemic.


Selection Process and Nominations :

* The ISAC 2022 had a two-stage submission process. The Qualifying Stage assessed cities’ overall performance, while the Proposal Stage required nominations for six award categories.
* Out of 845 nominations from 80 qualifying smart cities, 66 winners were identified across various categories.

Correct Answer :   Ministry of Education

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The Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell, in collaboration with the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE), announced the commencement of the Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2023, marking its sixth edition.

* K. Sanjay Murthy (IAS), Secretary of Higher Education, Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, and Dr. Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of AICTE, were among the dignitaries present at the beginning of this innovation-driven competition.

* K. Sanjay Murthy, speaking at the event, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s Hackathon.

* He commended the efforts of the Innovation Cell, led by Dr. Abhay Jere, for their excellent work in organizing these Hackathons.

* He also highlighted the recent UNESCO India-Africa Hackathon, where Indian students collaborated with 22 African countries to address challenges specific to the African continent.

* Furthermore, he mentioned the successful KAVACH Hackathon organized in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs, focusing on cybersecurity.

* Prof. T.G. Sitharam emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in shaping the future. He highlighted the fact that innovation is the cornerstone upon which the future is built.

* With a vast network of over 7500 Innovation Institutes across India, the Smart India Hackathon offers participants a unique opportunity to tackle problem statements from various government bodies and ministries. This, he believes, will lead to unconventional solutions and fresh perspectives.

* Dr Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of AICTE, lauded the growth of the Hackathon since its inception in 2017. He described the Smart India Hackathon as the world’s most extensive Hackathon and innovation paradigm, which has evolved over the years.

* He also praised the diversity of themes encompassed by the platform, ranging from agriculture and health tech to transportation.

* Smart India Hackathon is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell and the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE).

* With an impressive collection of 239 problem statements, including 182 software challenges and 57 hardware challenges, SIH-2023 has garnered participation from 26 Central Ministries, 6 State Ministries, and 4 Industry partners. This demonstrates the true spirit of collaborative innovation embodied by SIH 2023.

* Building on the success of the SIH Junior Edition in 2022, the second edition of the Junior Hackathon 2023 has also been initiated.

* Aim : To empower students from the 6th to 12th grade, providing them with the platform to showcase their innovative ideas across various themes.

* The themes of SIH 2023 encompass a broad spectrum of societal needs, including Agriculture, food and rural Development, Blockchain and cybersecurity, Clean and green Technology, Disaster Management, Fitness and sports, Heritage and culture, MedTech/BioTech/HealthTech, Renewable/Sustainable Energy, Robotics and Drones, Smart Automation, Smart Education, Smart Vehicles, Transportation & Logistics, Travel & Tourism, and Toy.

* Noteworthy problem statements include the development of a Blockchain-based e-vault system for legal records by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

* Another intriguing challenge involves creating a prediction system to identify Cloudbursts in hilly areas by analyzing meteorological parameters and weather patterns.

* The Smart India Hackathon 2023 promises to be a crucible of innovation, fostering creative solutions to address pressing challenges across a multitude of sectors..


Source : The Print

Correct Answer :   Assam

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The Assam Environment and Forest Department has taken a significant step by announcing the ban on the use and production of plastic water bottles below 1000 ml capacity within the state.

This transformative initiative, set to be enforced from 2nd October 2023, reflects Assam’s commitment to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.

Recognizing the environmental hazards posed by such smaller plastic bottles, the Assam government’s decision aligns with its commitment to safeguard the state’s natural beauty and biodiversity.


A Progressive Ban on PET Bottles: Assam’s Vision for a Greener Future :

* Last month, the Assam government made headlines by declaring its intent to prohibit the production and use of drinking water bottles made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with a volume of less than 1 litre.

* This commendable decision has now materialized into official action, with the Assam Environment and Forest Department issuing a resolute notification on August 23.

* The notification effectively puts an end to the manufacturing, import, stocking, distribution, and sale of plastic water bottles below the specified capacity.

Legal Authority and Implementation :

* The ban on plastic water bottles below 1000 ml capacity falls under the purview of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The notification invokes the powers vested in the State by the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, under Section 23 of the Act. As per the notification, the ban will become effective on October 2, 2023.

* The responsibility for implementing this prohibition is shared among various entities, including Urban and Rural local bodies, District Administration, Police department, and the Pollution Control Board of Assam.

* This collaborative effort underscores the comprehensive approach taken by the Assam government in ensuring the successful execution of the ban.

Correct Answer :   Infosys

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Infosys announced on Friday (25th August 2023) that it has entered into a multi-year partnership with women’s tennis World No. 1 Iga ÅšwiÄ…tek, making her its global brand ambassador to promote Digital Innovation and inspire women worldwide. This news comes a day after the IT major signed up Rafael Nadal for the same role.

* The collaboration with ÅšwiÄ…tek will involve Infosys working closely with her team to build an advanced data analytics and video dashboard. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the partnership aims to amplify ÅšwiÄ…tek's training, focusing on her strengths and devising match strategies.

* In a statement, Infosys said, “Several of Infosys' clients embrace a similar approach, taking advantage of digital advances like AI, machine learning, cloud, and more to accelerate their evolution and transformation.

* Infosys and ÅšwiÄ…tek will also work together to create programmes to empower young women around the world by helping them build careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).”

* The 22-year-old ÅšwiÄ…tek, a four-time Grand Slam Champion and one of the most dominant figures in women's tennis, has been ranked World No. 1 since April 2022, holding the position for a record 70 consecutive weeks.

* Infosys has been engaged with tennis for over eight years, serving as the digital innovation partner for prestigious events like the ATP Tour, Roland-Garros, Australian Open, and The International Tennis Hall of Fame..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   August 26

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Women’s Equality Day, observed annually on August 26, marks a global recognition of the ongoing struggle for equal rights and opportunities for women.

It serves as a tribute to the universal suffrage movement, celebrates women’s advancements, and reinforces the commitment to gender equality.


The Theme of Women’s Equality Day 2023 :

The theme for Women’s Equality Day 2023 is “Embrace Equity,” echoing through the strategic plan spanning from 2021 to 2026. This theme underscores the importance of achieving gender equality, not just for economic growth, but also as a fundamental human right.


The Significance of Women’s Equality Day 2023 :

* Honoring Activism and Progress :  Women’s Equality Day pays homage to the determination of women’s rights activists who dedicated themselves to achieving equality. It acknowledges accomplishments in advancing women’s rights and highlights the imperative of attaining genuine gender equality across all aspects of society.

* Raising Awareness and Urging Action : This day prompts reflection, raises awareness about prevailing gender disparities, and encourages consistent efforts to combat gender-based discrimination. It urges for equal opportunities for women in education, workplaces, politics, and other arenas. The aim is to inspire individuals and groups to actively support gender equality for a more inclusive and just world.

* Crucial Amidst Challenges : In the wake of the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which deprives women of their right to choose, the dedication to women’s rights becomes more vital than ever.

History of Women’s Equality Day :

Origin of the Day : Women’s Equality Day finds its roots in the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, granting full suffrage to women. August 26, 1970, marked its 50th anniversary, prompting the National Organization for Women (NOW) to advocate for a statewide “strike for equality.”

Massive Advocacy :  Over 100,000 women joined this strike in more than 90 major cities, making it a historic gender equality protest in the US. The establishment of Women’s Equality Day by Congress in 1971 commemorates not only the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment but also the continuous efforts towards women’s full equality.

Conclusion: A Pledge to Equal Opportunities : Women’s Equality Day stands as a yearly commitment to recognize achievements, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and work collectively towards gender equality. It’s a day to renew our dedication to building a world where women’s rights are honored, and opportunities are equitable for all..

Correct Answer :   40 years

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a landmark visit to Greece, marking a significant diplomatic milestone as he became the first Indian Prime Minister to set foot in the country in 40 years.

This visit is aimed at fortifying the bilateral relationship between India and Greece, and it comes at the invitation of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.


Warm Welcome from Indian Community :

As Prime Minister Modi arrived in the Greek capital of Athens, he was warmly greeted by the Indian community residing in Greece. A symbolic gesture of cultural exchange was presented as they gifted him with a traditional Greek headdress, symbolizing the bridging of cultures and the strong ties that the two nations share.

Diplomatic Dialogues: Cementing Bilateral Relations :

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is set to engage in crucial talks with his Greek counterpart, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The primary objective of these discussions is to further solidify the existing relationship between the two countries. The talks are expected to encompass a wide range of areas, including economic cooperation, defense collaboration, and people-to-people connections.


Meeting with Dignitaries: Strengthening Diplomatic Bonds :

Apart from his meeting with Prime Minister Mitsotakis, Prime Minister Modi is also anticipated to have an audience with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. This high-level interaction adds another layer to the strengthening of diplomatic bonds between the two nations.


Economic Emphasis: Business Leaders and Indian Diaspora Interaction :

Recognizing the importance of economic collaboration, PM Modi is scheduled to engage with prominent business leaders from both India and Greece. This interaction aims to foster deeper economic ties, promote investments, and explore avenues for trade growth between the two countries. Furthermore, the Prime Minister will also connect with the Indian diaspora in Greece, highlighting the role of this community in enhancing cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations.

Shared Civilization and Collaborative Endeavors :

India and Greece share a history steeped in civilization and culture, which forms the foundation for their strong modern-day partnership. Recent years have witnessed the growth of cooperation in various sectors, notably maritime transport, defense, and trade. This visit seeks to build upon these existing collaborations and pave the way for further synergies.


Historical Significance :

The last time a sitting Indian Prime Minister visited Greece was in September 1983, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi undertook a significant trip to the nation. PM Modi’s visit, after a four-decade gap, marks a historic moment in the diplomatic relations between the two countries and signifies India’s commitment to fostering stronger global ties.