Correct Answer :   19th August

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World Photography Day, observed annually on August 19th, marks the celebration of photography’s rich history and its role as both an art form and a scientific achievement. This day commemorates the invention of the daguerreotype, an early photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre in 1837, which paved the way for modern photography.


Celebration of World Photography Day :

* Photographers and photography enthusiasts around the world celebrate the day by taking photos, sharing their work on social media platforms and participating in photography-related events. Many photography exhibitions, workshops and contests are organised on World Photography Day to showcase the talents of photographers, reflect on the significance of their craft and the role that photography plays in documenting history, culture and personal experiences.

* This day, people from all walks of life come together to appreciate the visual storytelling that photography offers and celebrate the photographers who capture moments that inspire, inform and provoke emotions while recognising the impact that their work has on the world.

Significance of World Photography Day :

* World Photography Day highlights photography as a legitimate form of art, encouraging photographers to experiment with different techniques, compositions and styles. It encourages people to appreciate the power of photography in telling stories, capturing emotions and preserving memories.

* It is a day to discuss the technical aspects of photography, advancements in equipment and the evolution of photographic techniques when photographers and enthusiasts often share their favourite photos, stories behind the images and insights into their creative process.

History of World Photography Day :

* World Photography Day commemorates the announcement of the daguerreotype process to the public on August 19, 1839, by the French Academy of Sciences. The daguerreotype process was one of the earliest methods of capturing permanent images on a light-sensitive surface.

* The day traces its origins to 1837 when the first ever photographic process, the ‘Daguerreotype’ was developed by the Frenchmen Louis Daguerre and Joseph Nicephore Niepce. On January 9, 1839, the French Academy of Sciences announced this process, and later in the same year, the French government purchased the patent for the invention and gave it as a gift, “free to the world.”

* However, the first durable colour photograph was taken in the year 1861 and there is even speculation about the first digital photograph being invented in 1957, 20 years before the invention of the first digital camera.

Correct Answer :   2

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Two leopards were found dead in agricultural fields under suspicious circumstances near Melavoi on outskirts of Madakasira reserved forest on Thursday (17th Aug 2023).

* It is suspected that they might have died due to consumption of poisoned meat. Both of these wild animals are less than two years old.

* Forest officials have burnt their bodies after conducting a post-mortem on them.

* Leopards have been regularly found moving close to human habitations, including in municipal towns of Madakasira, Kalyanadurgam and Rayadurg in Anantapur and Satyasai districts.

* A forest official said the number of leopards has almost tripled in the last five years because of easily available prey in forest and hillock areas. However, they have also started entering human habitations for prey, following which farmers have started poisoning them.

Correct Answer :   Bharatmala Programme

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The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has found irregularities in the awarding of projects by agencies implementing central government-funded highway projects.

NHAI’s decision to opt for an elevated carriageway on the Haryana portion of the expressway has pushed up the construction cost to Rs 251 crore per km from the originally approved Rs 18.2 crore per km.

NHAI is building the expressway in question under the Bharatmala programme.

Correct Answer :   Maharashtra

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The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of tribal communities in the state.

The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme aims to link all tribal villages in 17 districts of Maharashtra with main roads, effectively addressing the challenges faced by these communities in accessing essential services.

The project, estimated at a cost of Rs 5,000 crore, will involve the construction of approximately 6,838 kilometers of roads.

Key Points :

1.Project Overview :

* The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme has been initiated by the Maharashtra government to connect tribal villages with primary roads, promoting better accessibility and improved living conditions.
* The scheme is an outcome of the Budget Session announcement by Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Devendra Fadnavis, focusing on the establishment of perennial roads to connect tribal padas (hamlets).


2. Execution and Implementation :

* The Tribal Development Department will lead the efforts for the scheme’s execution, ensuring its alignment with the specific needs of tribal communities.
* Construction of the roads will be carried out by the Public Works Department, ensuring quality and durability.
* A dedicated committee will oversee the progress and development of these roads, enhancing coordination and effective implementation.


3. Connectivity to Essential Facilities :

* The core objective of the scheme is to connect tribal sub-plan areas with primary health centers and ashramshalas (residential schools) through main roads.
* By bridging the connectivity gap, the scheme aims to eliminate challenges in providing fundamental facilities to tribal populations.

4. Positive Impact on Tribal Communities :

* The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme is expected to bring about transformative changes in the lives of tribal communities by easing their access to basic services.
* Improved connectivity will enhance healthcare accessibility, educational opportunities, and overall socio-economic development.


5. Financial Investment :

* The project is estimated to require a financial investment of Rs 5,000 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to uplifting tribal regions.
* The substantial funding underscores the significance of the scheme in fostering inclusive growth and development.


6. Scope and Road Construction :

* Approximately 6,838 kilometers of roads will be constructed as part of the scheme, significantly expanding the road network and connecting remote tribal villages.
* This extensive road construction will facilitate efficient transportation, promoting trade, connectivity, and social integration.

Correct Answer :   17th August 2023

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Eminent social worker, educationist and consumer rights activist Deven Dutta breathed his last at Guwahati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) around Thursday (17th August 2023) midnight, at the age of 81.

Born on April 5, 1944 at Nazira in Sivasagar, Deven Dutta was residing in Guwahati’s Sundarpur area. He completed his post-graduation in English in the year 1965 and started his career as a professor of English at Cotton College. He was also a renowned litterateur and columnist.

Prof Dutta was a prolific writer and had published several books and articles on a variety of topics, including literature, education, and social issues. He was also a regular columnist in several newspapers and magazines.

In addition to his academic and literary achievements, Prof Dutta was also a social activist. He was involved in several social organizations and campaigns, including the fight for consumer rights and the protection of the environment.

Legacy of Wisdom: Remembering Prof. Deven Dutta :

A prolific writer, Dutta’s bibliography boasts a myriad of books and articles spanning diverse subjects, ranging from literature and education to pressing social issues. His insightful perspectives found a platform in various newspapers and magazines, where he served as a regular columnist, captivating readers with his thought-provoking insights.

Beyond his academic and literary pursuits, Prof. Dutta held a mantle of social activism, demonstrating a fervent commitment to various social causes. His resolute dedication to consumer rights advocacy and environmental protection earned him widespread respect. He played a pivotal role in multiple social organizations and campaigns, channeling his energy towards creating a more just and sustainable society.

Colleagues, friends, and students remember Prof. Dutta as a source of inspiration, a mentor whose wisdom and compassion left an indelible mark on their lives. His legacy serves as a guiding light for future generations, encouraging them to pursue knowledge, justice, and social change.

Correct Answer :   19th August

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World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed on the 19th August.

* Aim : To bring partners from across the humanitarian system together and work collectively for survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises.

* World Humanitarian Day 2023 theme is : NoMatterWhat.

* It is the day when 22 colleagues were killed at the United Nations Office in Baghdad,

* It is an opportunity to pay tribute to colleagues who have lost their lives in humanitarian service.

* Today, 20 years on, our work has grown in scale and complexity. We aim to help almost 250 million people – 10 times more people than in 2003..

Source : World Humanitarian Day

Correct Answer :   SAMUDRA

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Recently, the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has launched a new mobile application called Samudra (SAMUDRA) for the boaters and fishing community.

It is a state-of-the-art app that helps users navigate the marine area for their safety and fishing operations. The Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services was established in 1999 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).


About SAMUDRA App :

* Smart Access to Marine Users for Ocean Data Resources and Advisories (SAMUDRA) application offers comprehensive information on all ocean related services.

* It is a cutting-edge tool helping users to navigate the marine domain with confidence on their safety, and profitable fishing operations.

* It embodies the institute vision and mission in serving the nation with ocean data, information, and advisory services.

* It will catalyse sustainable ocean activities, thus enabling a way forward for the Blue Economy,

* It empowers users with real-time updates and critical alerts on oceanic disasters such as tsunamis, storm surges, high waves, and swell surge alerts, for the individuals and communities to stay informed and take necessary precautions towards the protection of lives and property.

* It will be especially beneficial to the fishing community as it disseminates Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories which will guide them to the probable fish aggregation locations.

* It is currently serving in English, soon eight coastal languages are proposed to be included soon.


What is INCOIS?

* It was established as an autonomous body in 1999 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

* Mandate : To provide the best possible ocean information and advisory services to society, industry, government agencies and the scientific community through sustained ocean observations and constant improvements through systematic and focused research.

Correct Answer :   Bengaluru

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India's first 3D-printed post office is coming up at Cambridge Layout in Bengaluru. 3D printing is a process of making three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file.

* The Post Office building is being constructed by L&T, which is the only company currently in India utilising 3D printing technology for construction.

* In this process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced cross-section of the object.

* 3D printing enables you to produce complex shapesusing less material than traditional manufacturing methods.

* According to Chief Post Master General of the Karnataka Circle, S Rajendra Kumar, 3D printing can significantly reduce the cost and expedite construction which would otherwise take months to complete.

3D printing of the new post office which will be a three-storied building has been given clearances by the Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and IIT-Madras.

India's first 3D-printed building :

* In December 2020, L&T had successfully 3D-printed a 700 sq feet building (ground plus first floor) with reinforcement, for the first time in India.

* Using a fully automated 3D printer, L&T 3D printed the building at their facility in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu with a special, in-house developed concrete mix, using indigenously available regular construction materials.

* The building was printed with both vertical reinforcement bar and horizontal distributors using a welded mesh that satisfies provisions in the Indian Codes and optimises the cost of construction.

* The company said that except for the horizontal slab members, the entire building structure was 3D printed 'Cast in Situ' at the job site in an 'open to sky' environment within 106 printing hours.

* In November 2019, the L&T team had 3D-printed a 240 sq feet 1 BHK..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   Kushvinder Vohra

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A FloodWatch mobile app has been launched on Thursday (17th August 2023) for real time flood forecast situations across the country.

App Aim : To disseminate information related to the flood situation and forecasts up to seven days on a real-time basis.

The Chairman of Central Water Commission "Kushvinder Vohra" launched the app in New Delhi on Thursday (17th August 2023).
 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vohra said, the app utilizes advanced technologies such as satellite data analysis and real-time monitoring to deliver accurate and timely flood forecasts.

He said, the user-friendly app will make it easy for anyone to stay informed and minimise risk during flood events. Mr. Vohra said this FloodWatch mobile app will be beneficial for tourists visiting hill stations..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Prabal

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India's first long-range revolver 'Prabal' will be launched 18 August 2023. Manufactured by the state-owned enterprise Advanced Weapons and Equipment India (AWEIL), the Prabal revolver boasts a firing range of up to 50 metres, more than twice the reach of other revolvers.

* AWEIL director AK Maurya said the Prabla revolver is light in weight and equipped with a side swing cylinder. It is akin to a Webley Scott revolver, with an easy trigger pull.

* It weighs 700 grams (without cartridges) in weight and its barrel length is 76 m, while its overall length is 177.6 mm.

* According to the AWEIL director, one can do the booking of the revolver from 18th August 2023. It could be purchased by civilians with license.

* AWEIL is a state-woned firm in Kanpur's Armapur. It has eight factories of the erstwhile Ordinance Factory Board (OFB) and primarily manufactures small arms and artillery guns for Indian armed forces, as well as, foreign militaries.

* Established in 2021, AWEIL is a part of the restructuring and corporatisation of the OFB into seven different PSUs.

* The firm has received an order to manufacture defence products worth ₹6,000 crore this year (2023), including an order for 300 'Sarang' cannons from the Indian Army. The firm has received orders worth ₹450 crore from European countries too..

Source : Mint