Correct Answer :   IIT Madras

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IIT Madras has become the first Indian Institute of Technology to establish an international campus on the picturesque Zanzibar Island in East Africa.

Inaugurated by the President of Zanzibar, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, this historic initiative signifies a brighter educational future, facilitated by a memorandum of understanding between India and Tanzania, ushering in a new era of global education and cooperation.


A Historical Milestone :

* The establishment of the IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus represents a remarkable achievement for both India and Tanzania.
* This endeavor reflects the Indian government’s commitment to spreading the excellence of India’s education system to international arenas.
* While the initial campus is located in the Bweleo district, approximately 15 kilometers south of Zanzibar Town, there are plans for a permanent campus to be jointly developed by the Government of Zanzibar and the Government of India.


Academic Offerings :

* To kickstart its operations, the IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus is offering Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Technology (MTech) programs, with a focus on Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
* These programs are designed to meet the growing demand for skills in data-driven technologies and are expected to pave the way for more academic offerings in the near future.
* Notably, the first batch of students admitted to IITM Zanzibar comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Zanzibar, mainland Tanzania, Nepal, and India, with a commendable 40 percent representation of women.

State-of-the-Art Facilities :

* The IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus boasts modern and comprehensive facilities to cater to the needs of its students. Accommodation in well-equipped dormitories is available, ensuring a comfortable stay.
* The campus features fully-furnished offices, state-of-the-art classrooms, and an impressive auditorium to facilitate a conducive learning environment.
* Dining facilities, a dispensary, and planned sports facilities ensure that students have access to a holistic campus experience.


Open to All Nationalities :

* The courses offered at IITM Zanzibar are open to students of all nationalities, including Indians. This openness encourages a diverse learning environment that fosters global perspectives and cross-cultural collaboration.
* Apart from the comprehensive curriculum in Data Science and AI, students can explore a range of opportunities during their studies.
* These opportunities include study abroad and semester exchange programs with IIT Madras’ partner institutions in the UK, Australia, and other countries, internships with relevant companies, and the possibility to fulfill some course requirements at the IIT Madras campus in Chennai, India.


Commencement of Classes :

* The IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus opened its doors for classes during the academic year 2023-24, with the first semester commencing in October 2023.
* The student body comprises individuals from various countries, representing the global spirit of education.
* A total of 45 students have been admitted to pursue a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Data Science and AI, as well as a two-year Master of Technology degree in the same field.

Correct Answer :   135th

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November 7, 2023, marks the 135th birth anniversary of the renowned Indian physicist, Sir Chandrasekhar Venkata Raman, who is celebrated for his groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect.

This discovery revolutionized the field of physics and earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize. As we pay tribute to this great scientist on his birth anniversary. Let’s delve into some interesting facts about his life and contributions that continue to inspire generations of scientists and researchers.


Interesting Facts About CV Raman :

Here are some interesting facts about the renowned Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, also known as CV Raman:

* Nobel Prize Achievement: CV Raman was the first Indian to receive a Nobel Prize in the sciences. He won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 for his groundbreaking work on the scattering of light and the discovery of the Raman Effect.

* Early Research: Raman’s interest in scientific research began at an early age. His first research paper on the diffraction of light was published while he was still an undergraduate student in 1906.

* Dual Career: At the age of 19, Raman started his career as an Assistant Accountable General in the Indian Finance Service in Kolkata. While working in the finance service, he continued to pursue his passion for scientific research.

* Academic Journey: Despite his job in the financial sector, Raman’s heart was set on advancing his scientific pursuits. He continued to conduct research and published papers in prestigious international journals like Nature and Physical Review.

* Academic Positions: In 1917, Raman left his government job and accepted the Palit Chair of Physics at Calcutta University. He was awarded two honorary positions at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IASCs) in 1919, allowing him to pursue independent research in acoustics and optics.

* Leadership Roles: Raman served as the first Indian Director of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore from 1933 to 1937 and was the head of the physics department there until 1948.

* Raman Research Institute: After retiring from IISc in 1948, CV Raman established the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru in 1949. He served as the director and remained active in the institute until his passing in 1970.

* Awards and Honors: Throughout his life, CV Raman received numerous awards and honors, including the Lenin Peace Prize and the Franklin Medal, in addition to the Nobel Prize and the Bharat Ratna.

Correct Answer :   1st Nov 2023

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Renowned musician and researcher Leela Omchery passed away on Wednesday (1st Nov 2023). She was 94.

Omchery was a pioneer in the domain of music and was touted as one of the best the country has ever produced. She also served as a faculty in Delhi University. The country honoured her with Padma Shri in 2009. She was married to renowned playwright Omchery N. N. Pillai.

In her illustrious career spanning decades, Leela Omchery won the prestigious fellowship in the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi(1990) and the UGC National Associate Award for her contribution to music.

She was born on May 31, 1929, as the daughter of Kamukara Parameswara Kurup and Lakshmikutty in Thiruvattar, Kanyakumari district.

Her brother is the famous Indian singer late Kamukara Purushothaman. Apart from Carnatic music, she had a profound mastery of Hindustani, Sopanam Sangeetham, folk songs and dance. She was a resident of Delhi and during her twilight years, wrote many short stories collection..

Source : Kerala Kaumudi

Correct Answer :   IIT Kanpur

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The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has established a Center of Excellence (CoE) named ATMAN (Advanced Technologies for Monitoring Air-quality iNdicators). The CoE is a significant step towards the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative of the Government of India, focusing on building indigenous low-cost sensor manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) capabilities to enhance air quality across urban and rural areas of India.


Aligning with India’s Vision for Sustainable Technologies :

* The CoE ATMAN aims to translate sustainable technologies and business models into practical products and services accessible to millions globally.
* It represents a pivotal move towards achieving self-reliance in air quality monitoring and management.


Philanthropic Support for Cutting-Edge Technology :

* Supported by philanthropic entities, including Bloomberg Philanthropies, Open Philanthropy, and the Clean Air Fund, ATMAN aims to address critical air quality challenges with cutting-edge technology.
* This support not only demonstrates global recognition of India’s air quality issues but also facilitates research and development in this crucial field.


Initiatives Underway at ATMAN :

* This initiative of establishing the Center of Excellence—ATMAN has firmly positioned the institute at the forefront of efforts to combat air pollution.
* Through ATMAN, IIT Kanpur is dedicated to the meticulous evaluation of health risks associated with air pollutants, as well as a comprehensive review of air quality standards.

AMRIT: Revolutionizing Rural Air Quality Monitoring :

* There are several projects that are currently underway at ATMAN. The Ambient Air Quality Monitoring of Rural Areas using Indigenous Technology (AMRIT) is a flagship project that will deploy a dense Sensor Ambient Air Quality Monitor (SAAQM) network with 1,400 nodes across rural areas in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
* This initiative is the first of its kind to monitor air quality comprehensively in these regions, where data has been limited to cities and towns. The CoE team will be working with the State Pollution Control Board of Bihar and Department of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Government of Uttar Pradesh on AMRIT to enhance air quality action in these states.


DHSA: Dynamic Hyper-Local Source Apportionment :

* The Dynamic Hyper-local Source Apportionment (DHSA) is a cost-effective approach to source apportionment that is currently being pioneered in Lucknow and Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh.
* The data from DHSA will enable city authorities to make informed decisions in their air quality action planning. The long-term vision is to scale DHSA systems across cities in India to inform about emission and sources of air pollution on a dynamic scale based on this project.

PM2.5 Prediction and Airshed Management :

* The PM2.5 Prediction and Airshed Management is a project that utilizes micro-satellite imagery, sensor-based ambient air quality networks, and machine learning to predict PM2.5 levels at finer resolutions.
* Additionally, the CoE is developing an airshed approach to address air pollution on a larger scale with data-driven policy decisions. This project promises to revolutionize air quality prediction and management, enabling policymakers to take proactive measures.


Cutting-Edge Technology at the Heart of ATMAN :

* The CoE is at the forefront of indigenous air quality sensor fabrication, combining it with artificial intelligence and machine learning models to ensure precise and reliable results.
* The technology’s optimization involves careful sensor placement to maximize overall citizen satisfaction with air quality information available to the public.


A Stride Towards Cleaner Air :

The CoE ATMAN represents a significant stride towards achieving cleaner air for the nation. The holistic approach of the CoE, combining innovative sensor technology with AI/ML capabilities, is poised to set a precedent for sustainable air quality management worldwide. With its collaborative projects and visionary initiatives, IIT Kanpur is playing a vital role in addressing one of India’s most pressing environmental challenges and paving the way for a healthier and cleaner future.

Correct Answer :   Bangladesh

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Bangladesh will host the 24th Asian Archery Championships in 2025 after winning votes in the bid at the World Archery Asia Congress held  in Bangkok, Thailand.

* A total of twenty four member countries of the Asian continent participated in the congress.

* Bangladesh and China applied for bids as host countries for the 24th Asian Archery Championship.

* The 23rd Asian Archery Championship will begin on Sunday (5 Nov 2023) in Bangkok, Thailand..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   IIT Gandhinagar

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The First Australia India Education and Skill Council (AIESC) meeting will be held at IIT Gandhinagar in Gujarat Monday(6th Nov 2023).

The Ministry of Education said that the AIESC, earlier the Australian India Education Council (AIEC), is a bi-national body established in 2011 to guide the strategic direction of the education, training, and research partnerships between the two countries.

The scope of this forum was enhanced in alignment with the national priorities of both countries to bring focus on promoting internationalisation, two-way mobility, and collaboration in the domains of education as well as the skill ecosystem. This is the first time that education and skilling are being brought under the same institutional forum.

The meeting will be jointly chaired by  Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Australian Education Miniaster Jason Clare and Brendan O'Connor, Minister for Skills and Training, Government of Australia.

This meeting will provide a platform for academic and skill experts to discuss a wide range of mutually agreed priorities, with the ultimate aim of shaping the future of education and skilling in both our nations..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   November 6th

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The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, observed on November 6th each year, is a significant global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the severe consequences of war and armed conflicts on the environment.

This day was established by the United Nations to underscore the importance of safeguarding the environment as a source of security and peace while preventing its exploitation during military conflicts.

The occasion calls on individuals, nations, and organizations to speak out and reiterate their commitment to protecting our threatened planet, even in the face of armed aggression.

The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict is a vital occasion on the international calendar. It not only reminds us of the catastrophic consequences of environmental damage during times of conflict but also emphasizes the role of sustainable development and global cooperation in preventing these issues.

As we mark this day, we are called to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our planet, even in the face of adversity, and to work towards a world where the environment remains a source of security and peace.

Historical Background :

The roots of this important day can be traced back to November 5, 2001, when the United Nations General Assembly took a momentous step by adopting resolution A/RES/56/4. This resolution declared November 6th of each year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. The decision was a response to growing global concerns about the environmental consequences of warfare and the need to address these issues on a global scale.


Reinforcing Commitment :

On May 27, 2016, the United Nations Environment Assembly further reinforced its commitment to this cause by adopting resolution UNEP/EA.2/Res.15. This resolution explicitly recognized the critical role of healthy ecosystems and sustainably managed resources in reducing the risk of armed conflict. It also reaffirmed the UN’s strong dedication to the full implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, as outlined in General Assembly resolution 70/1, entitled “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” This emphasis on sustainable development is key to ensuring that environmental protection remains at the forefront of global priorities even in times of armed conflict.

Significance of the Day :

* The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between environmental preservation and global peace and security. It highlights the following key points:

* Environmental Consequences of Conflict: War and armed conflict often result in devastating environmental damage. This includes the destruction of ecosystems, pollution, deforestation, and the contamination of water sources, all of which have long-lasting impacts on both the environment and human well-being.

* Promoting Peace and Security: Protecting the environment can be a means of preventing conflict and promoting peace. Sustainable resource management and ecosystem preservation can mitigate the root causes of many conflicts, such as competition over scarce resources.

* Sustainable Development Goals: The day underscores the importance of aligning environmental protection efforts with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to peace, prosperity, and the planet.

* Global Collaboration: It encourages nations and individuals to come together, share knowledge, and collaborate on strategies to prevent the exploitation of the environment during times of conflict.

Correct Answer :   Rohit Rishi

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Rohit Rishi has assumed the position of Executive Director at the Bank of Maharashtra. The appointment is for a tenure of three years, starting from November 1, 2023 in place of Shri A.B. Vijayakumar.

His extensive experience, academic qualifications, and professional acumen make him a valuable addition to the bank’s leadership team.


A Diverse and Accomplished Career :

Rohit Rishi’s professional journey started in 1995 when he joined Indian Bank as an Industrial Development Officer. With over 28 years of experience, he has successfully navigated through diverse aspects of the banking industry. Throughout his career, Rishi has demonstrated his ability to thrive in diverse roles, contributing significantly to the growth and transformation of the organizations he served.

Rohit Rishi’s Academic Background and Banking Expertise :

Rohit Rishi holds a B. Tech degree in Textiles, an MBA in Finance, and is a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB). His experience spans across various aspects of banking, with a strong focus on MSME, Mid-Corporate, and Corporate credit.


Some of the notable roles he has held include :

* Industrial Development Officer: His career began with this crucial role, where he gained foundational experience in the Indian banking sector.

* AGM MSME/ Corporate Office, Chennai: His journey led him to the southern part of India, where he contributed to the bank’s growth and development.

* Head of Bank’s Flagship Branch in New Delhi: Taking on a leadership role, Rohit Rishi made a significant impact by managing the bank’s flagship branch in the nation’s capital.

* DGM (Corporate Branch, New Delhi): His progression within the banking sector continued, and he served in the capacity of Deputy General Manager in the corporate branch of New Delhi.

* FGM at Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi: Rohit Rishi’s expertise extended across different regions in India, contributing to the bank’s operations and growth in various major cities.

* Role in Amalgamation of Allahabad Bank into Indian Bank: As a General Manager, Rohit Rishi played an active role in the successful amalgamation of Allahabad Bank into Indian Bank. His contribution during this process highlighted his leadership and decision-making skills.


Rohit Rishi’s Impact: Navigating Banking Regulations and Innovating Financial Solutions :

Rohit Rishi’s notable achievement includes his pivotal role in shaping and executing policies that adeptly address intricate banking regulations, ensuring a stable and secure financial landscape. His proficiency in product innovation has led to the introduction of cutting-edge financial solutions tailored to evolving customer demands, enabling institutions to stay competitive and aligned with a swiftly evolving financial industry.

Correct Answer :   Indian Oil Corporation

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The State-owned Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has acquired Mercator Petroleum Limited (MPL) through an insolvency proceeding. The acquisition, valued at approximately Rs 148 crore, was approved by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) under the relevant provisions of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.


The Acquisition and Resolution Plan :

The acquisition of MPL strengthens Indian Oil presence in the oil and gas exploration sector. MPL holds an onland oil and gas exploration block in the Cambay Basin, Gujarat with significant potential for oil discovery, estimated at 45.5 million barrels of inplace reserves. In November 2019, IOC had already signed a contract to purchase oil from MPL, making this acquisition a logical step in further cementing their collaboration.


Resolution Plan and Payment Structure :

* Under the resolution plan submitted by IOC, the company will pay Rs 135 crore to secured financial creditors who had admitted claims totaling Rs 291 crore. However, no payment has been designated for unsecured financial creditors, who had admitted claims of Rs 118 crore.

* Additionally, the resolution plan offers Rs 5.40 crore to operational creditors, which includes vendors, workmen, employees, and statutory dues, against their total admitted claims of Rs 73 crore. IOC has also agreed to bear the insolvency proceeding cost of Rs 8.7 crore, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition of MPL.

Background of the Insolvency Proceeding :

* The insolvency proceeding of MPL was initiated by Cayman Island-based oil services company Halliburton Offshore Services Inc. in August 2021. This action came after Mercator defaulted on a payment of Rs 2.87 crore, which eventually led to the company being brought under the insolvency process.


Committee of Creditors Approval :

* The resolution plan proposed by IOC received a unanimous 100 percent vote of approval from the committee of creditors. Following this approval, the plan moved forward to the National Company Law Tribunal, which subsequently granted its consent for the acquisition.


GAIL’s Acquisition of JBF Petrochemicals in an Insolvency Battle :

* Earlier in the year, GAIL (Gas Authority of India Limited) acquired JBF Petrochemicals, a private-sector chemical company, for Rs 2,079 crore. This strategic move allowed GAIL to expand its presence in the petrochemical business.
* In this case, GAIL outbid a consortium of IOC and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) in an insolvency process managed by IDBI Bank. The acquisition helped recover Rs 5,628 crore of dues to financial and operational creditors.

Correct Answer :   3rd Nov 2023

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Renowned playwright, poet, painter, and thinker Gieve Patel passed away at the Cipla Palliative Care and Training Centre in Pune on Friday (3rd Nov 2023) afternoon, He was 83.

Patel, who had been battling cancer, was admitted to the Pune centre a few weeks ago. He is survived by a daughter, it added.

Born in Mumbai, Gieve Patel was a graduate of Grant Government Medical College. He rose to prominence in the world of arts and literature through his notable contributions as a playwright, poet, and painter.

Condolences from the Literary Community :

Noted writer Shanta Gokhale, who translated Patel's work, "Mister Behram", into Marathi, shared her memories with the paper, saying, "I knew Gieve for the last fifty years, and our association continued until the final days of his life. He was a multi-talented personality, yet remained down-to-earth."

Poet Ganesh Vispute expressed the sentiment of a significant loss in the Indian literary circle, stating, "He was a writer, poet, and a great thinker. He was the torchbearer of the Modern Indian literary movement."

Gieve Patel's passing marks the end of an era in the world of Indian arts and literature..

Source : Mint