Correct Answer :   Anurag Singh Thakur

---

The Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sh. Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated 33 Khelo India Centres in the State of Rajasthan this morning (23rd August 2023) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

* The Union Minister announced that a National Center of Excellence with a dedicated Sports Science Centre will be set up in Rajasthan along with additional 18 Khelo India centres, thus taking the total number of Khelo India centres in the State to 51.

* It was also announced that  Competitions will be organised  between the Khelo India Centers while Coaching the Coaches programme will also be extended to the Khelo India Center.  

* Coaches as well & the KIC coaches will be trained by getting them attached with our national & international coaches.

* Also present in the event was Sh. Ashok Chandna, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Govt. Of Rajasthan, as well as other eminent dignitaries from the State, YAS Ministry and SAI.

* Addressing the event, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur mentioned, “We want all States to grow in terms of sports. When State Governments work in tandem with Central Govt with a unanimous vision for sports, more medals will come for India..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   54th

---

India got its 54th tiger reserve in Rajasthan's Karauli and Dholpur districts on Tuesday (22nd August 2023) with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) approving a proposal in this regard.

This is Rajasthan's fifth tiger reserve after Ranthambore, Sariska, Mukundra Hills and Ramgarh Vishdhari.

"Giant leap for wildlife conservation in Rajasthan. Happy to announce that the state has got yet another Tiger Reserve.

"The Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve has been accorded the final approval by @ntca_india. Let's pledge to safeguard this precious ecosystem and its majestic tigers," Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav wrote on the microblogging site X.

The number of tigers in India has increased from 2,967 in 2018 to 3,682 in 2022, an annual rise of 6 per cent, according to government data.

With a 50 per cent increase in the last four years, Madhya Pradesh has the maximum number of tigers in the country (785), followed by Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), and Maharashtra (444).

The number of tigers in Rajasthan has increased from 32 in 2006 to 88 in 2022..

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   Ram Nath Kovind

---

Kerala took a significant step towards the integration of technology in education with the inauguration of its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) school in Thiruvananthapuram.

The inauguration ceremony, graced by former President Ram Nath Kovind, marked a transformative moment for education in the state.


AIM BEHIND THIS AI SCHOOL :

* The pioneering AI School, located at Santhigiri Vidyabhavan, has been developed in collaboration with iLearning Engines (ILE) USA, a globally renowned educational platform, and Vedhik eSchool. The latter is managed by a distinguished panel of experts, including former Chief Secretaries, DGPs, and Vice Chancellors.

* According to Vedhik eSchool authorities, AI school introduces an innovative learning approach that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to offer students an international standard of education. This unique system ensures quality learning experiences not only during school hours but also beyond, through the school's online portal.

INITIALLY AVAILABLE TO CLASSES 8 TO 12 :

* Vedhik eSchool authorities explained that the AI School is meticulously aligned with the National School Accreditation Standards, as outlined in the New National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It caters initially to students in classes 8 to 12, providing a comprehensive suite of learning tools and resources.


INTENSIVE TRAINING ON THE PLATFORM :

* The AI-powered features of the school include Multi-Teacher Revision Support, Multilevel Assessment, Aptitude Tests, Psychometric Counseling, Career Mapping, Ability Enhancement, Memory Techniques, Communication and Writing Skills, Interview and Group Discussion Skills, Mathematical Skills, Behavioral Etiquette, English Language Proficiency, and the Development of Emotional-Mental Abilities Training.

* Furthermore, the AI School offers intensive training for competitive exams and entrance tests such as JEE, NEET, MAT, CUET, CLAT, G-MAT, GRE, IELTS, and more. It extends its support to higher education pursuits, including guidance for scholarships in prestigious foreign universities.

AIMS TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICES :

* Importantly, the AI School aims to provide these exceptional educational services at minimal fees. The digital content, backed by artificial intelligence, is readily accessible through the school's website, eliminating additional financial burdens on students and parents.

* The curriculum not only enhances the learning experience but also aids teachers in addressing various academic challenges. It empowers parents to effectively assess their children's academic progress and equips even average students for remarkable success.

* The launch of Kerala's first AI School ushers in a new era of education, combining technology, innovation, and accessibility to pave the way for a brighter future for students...

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Indore

---

The 26th National Conference on e-Governance began in Indore on 24th August 2023 to deliberate on providing better facilities to the citizens.

* The conference was inaugurated by MP Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Science & Technology Minister Om Prakash Sakhalecha.

* Tulsi Ram Silavat, Minister of Water Resources, Fishermen Welfare and Fisheries Development Department of Madhya Pradesh was also present on this occasion.

* The two-day conference is being organized by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. 

* The conference is being brainstormed on the topic 'Developing India: Empowering Citizens'. Representatives from 28 states and 9 union territories as well as industry are participating in the conference. 

* Eleven themes including district-level initiatives, emerging technologies for providing citizen centric services, role of R&D in citizen centric services are being discussed in the conference.  National e-Governance Awards 2023 in 5 categories will also be presented during the conference..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Justice Prakash Srivastava

---

Justice Prakash Shrivastava, former Chief Justice of the Calcutta high court, has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

Appointment order to this effect was issued on Monday (21st August 2023). Justice Shrivastava (62) will assume his charge at NGT this week.

Earlier, Justice Shiv Kumar Singh was appointed as the executive chairperson after the retirement of the then NGT Chairman Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel in July 2023.

Justice Shrivastava was appointed as a Judge of the Madhya Pradesh high court in January 2008. He became a permanent judge two years later. He was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Calcutta high court in October, 2021. He was retired from there in March this year.

Enrolled as advocate on February 2, 1987, he practised on tax, civil and constitutional sides in the Supreme Court of India before appointed as Judge of the high court of Madhya Pradesh on January 18, 2008..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   Asmita Mahila League

---

Anurag Singh Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, has unveiled that the esteemed Khelo India Women’s League will be recognized as the “Asmita Women’s League” from now on. This purposeful transformation underscores the government’s commitment to advancing gender equality and nurturing the vibrant engagement of women in the realm of sports.


ASMITA: Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action :

The new name, “Asmita Women’s League,” carries a profound meaning. ASMITA stands for “Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action”, encapsulating the spirit of resilience, determination, and achievement that defines women athletes across the nation. This change not only offers a new identity but also embodies the aspirations of countless women who strive to make their mark in the sporting arena.

Acknowledging the Digital Leap: Asmita Portal and Logo :

Mr. Thakur took to social media to commend the entire Khelo India team for their visionary concept of the Asmita Women’s League. He also expressed his appreciation for the development of the Asmita Portal and its new logo, recognizing these advancements as significant steps towards the digital transformation of Indian sports. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the overall sports experience and engagement.


The Asmita Portal: A Comprehensive Sporting Resource :

Central to the new initiative is the Asmita Portal – a comprehensive online resource that provides valuable insights into upcoming leagues and events. This platform will serve as a hub for information, fostering a sense of community among sports enthusiasts and athletes alike.

Importantly, the portal is designed to empower schools, colleges, government bodies, and private organizations to host the ‘Asmita Women’s League’, facilitating wider participation and contribution to India’s sporting excellence.

A Stride Towards Inclusivity and Excellence :

Mr. Thakur underlined the government’s steadfast commitment to bolstering women’s sports in India. This commitment is yielding tangible results through increased opportunities, enhanced facilities, and the development of world-class sports infrastructure at both elite and grassroots levels. The term “Asmita” aptly captures the essence of these efforts – a collective drive to achieve sports milestones through the inspiration derived from the accomplishments of women athletes.

Correct Answer :   Shretha Thavisin

---

Thailand’s parliament on Tuesday (22nd August 2023) voted for real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin to be the country’s next prime minister, bringing an end to three months of political deadlock.

Srettha, 60, was the sole candidate put forward by the populist Pheu Thai Party and received 482 votes out of a possible 747 in Thailand’s bicameral parliament.

His election comes the same day that Pheu Thai founder and divisive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned to the country after more than 15 years in self-imposed exile.

Thavisin - who still needs to be endorsed by King Maha Vajirilongkorn before he can officially take office - later vowed to work on improving the lives of Thais across the country.

“I feel greatly honored to be elected as the 30th prime minister of Thailand. I would like to thank every Thai, coalition parties, honorable members of the House of Representatives, every senator who joined the vote today. I will try my best in doing my duties tirelessly to elevate Thais’ lives,” Thavisin said.

A political newbie with a track record in business, Srettha joined Pheu Thai in 2022 before being named one of the party’s three prime ministerial candidates ahead of the election in May.

That poll was won by a popular progressive party, Move Forward, which had proposed radical reforms to capitalize on years of rising anger with how Thailand is governed. However, its efforts to form a government were later stymied by the kingdom’s political elites.

Pheu Thai came second but led efforts to form a new alliance after parliament blocked Move Forward’s leader from becoming prime minister over the party’s pledge to amend Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws, known as Article 112.

In a bid to secure the needed votes, Pheu Thai struck a deal with its former military rivals and in doing so reneged on a promise that it would not work with pro-military parties.

Pheu Thai also campaigned on keeping the military out of politics, but under the new alliance the military-backed Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation Party will be awarded ministerial roles.

Both those parties are affiliated with coup leader and outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha, and linked to the military junta that toppled Pheu Thai’s democratically elected government, led by Thaksin’s sister Yingluck Shinawatra, nearly a decade ago..

Source : CNN

Correct Answer :   August 23

---

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is observed on August 23. It commemorates the day when an uprising began in Saint Domingue, now called Haiti, on August 23, 1791, against the slave trade.

Haiti was a French settlement and a centre of the slave trade across Europe. The uprising led to a revolution against the rulers of the country.


Theme of the day 2023 : “Fighting slavery’s legacy of racism through transformative education”


Significance of the day :

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is an important day to remember the victims of the slave trade and to reaffirm our commitment to fighting racism and discrimination. It is also a day to celebrate the progress that has been made and to recommit ourselves to building a more just and equitable world.

Here are some of the ways that the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition can be observed :

* Holding educational events and discussions about the slave trade.
* Visiting museums and historic sites that commemorate the slave trade.
* Reading books and articles about the slave trade.
* Supporting organizations that are working to combat racism and discrimination.
* Making a personal commitment to fight against racism and discrimination in our own lives.

History of the day :

* The day of the uprising was commemorated for the first time in 1998. It was designated by UNESCO and was also observed in Senegal in 1999.

* The slave trade was rampant in Europe those days and people from Africa and Asia were traded. Slaves were transported to the colonial settlements of Haiti, the Caribbean Islands, and other parts of the world. The international slave trade was abolished on March 25, 1807.


UNESCO Initiative :

UNESCO observes this day to remind the people “to continue to analyse and criticise such practices that may transform into modern forms of slavery and exploitation”. The day is observed to remember and honour those who were dehumanised under the cruel system.

Correct Answer :   Zimbabwe

---

The news of Zimbabwe legend Heath Streak's demise sent shockwaves through social media, leaving fans and experts taken aback.

However, former Zimbabwean fast bowler Henry Olonga has provided confirmation that Streak is alive.

Taking the news to X (formerly called as Twitter), Olonga shared a screenshot of his WhatsApp chat with Streak.

"I can confirm that rumours of the demise of Heath Streak have been greatly exaggerated. I just heard from him. The third umpire has called him back. He is very much alive folks," Olonga posted on his X handle.

I can confirm that rumours of the demise of Heath Streak have been greatly exaggerated. I just heard from him. The third umpire has called him back. He is very much alive folks. pic.twitter.com/LQs6bcjWSB

— Henry Olonga (@henryolonga) August 23, 2023

Olonga had posted the news of Streak's death earlier in the day.

"Sad news coming through that Heath Streak has crossed to the other side. RIP @ZimCricketv legend. The greatest all-rounder we produced. It was a pleasure playing with you. See you on the other side when my bowling spell comes to an end," Olonga had written on his X handle..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   22nd August 2023

---

Popular Haryanvi singer Raju Punjabi died Tuesday (22nd August 2023) morning at a private hospital in Hisar, where he had been undergoing treatment for jaundice for the past several days. He was 40.

Born Raja Kumar at village Rawtsar in Rajasthan’s Hunamangarh district, the singer used to live in Hisar’s Azad Nagar area. During the course of treatment, his health had improved and he was discharged, but had to be admitted again after his condition deteriorated. His last rites were performed at his native village Rawatsar.

A well-established name in the Haryanvi music industry, he had charted out several hit sons as “Desi desi na bolya kar”, “Solid Body”, “Sandal”, “Aacha lage Se”, “Tu Cheez Lajawab”, “Bhang Mere Yaara Ne”, and “Last Peg” among others.

प्रसिद्ध हरियाणवी गायक एवं संगीत निर्माता राजू पंजाबी जी के निधन का दुखद समाचार प्राप्त हुआ। उनका जाना हरियाणा म्यूजिक इंडस्ट्री के लिए अपूरणीय क्षति है।

ईश्वर दिवंगत आत्मा को अपने श्री चरणों में स्थान दें तथा उनके परिजनों को यह अथाह दुःख सहन करने की शक्ति प्रदान करें।

ॐ शांति!

— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) August 22, 2023

He started his career by singing religious songs and rose to fame in 2013 with his song “Yaar Dobara Nahi Milen”. Punjabi’s last song “Aapse Milke Yaara Humko Achha Laga Tha” was released on August 12. His demise has left the industry in shock.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar expressed his condolences over the demise of the singer.