Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2026

Correct Answer :   Syria

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Saudi Arabia appoints Faisal bin Saud Al-Mejfel as ambassador to Syria, marking the first such move in over a decade and signaling a significant shift in bilateral relations.

Saudi Arabia’s appointment of Faisal bin Saud Al-Mejfel as its ambassador to Syria signifies a significant shift in bilateral relations, marking the first such appointment in over a decade. This move comes amidst a period of thawing relations between the two nations following years of estrangement sparked by the Syrian civil war.

Background: From Strain to Reconciliation :

The rift between Saudi Arabia and Syria emerged in 2011 amid the Syrian civil war, with Saudi Arabia backing rebel groups opposed to the Assad regime. Diplomatic ties were severed in 2012, leading to the closure of Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Damascus.

Rapprochement and Diplomatic Resumption :

The process of reconciliation began in May 2023 when Syria was readmitted to the Arab League, setting the stage for renewed engagement between Saudi Arabia and Syria. Following Syria’s readmission, Saudi Arabia reopened its embassy in Damascus, signaling a desire for normalized relations.

Strategic Appointment: Strengthening Bilateral Ties :

The appointment of Faisal bin Saud Al-Mejfel underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering closer cooperation with Syria. Al-Mejfel’s mission to strengthen bilateral ties hints at broader efforts to enhance collaboration in areas such as economics, security, and cultural exchange.

Implications for Regional Stability :

The re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Syria holds broader implications for regional dynamics. It may inspire other nations to pursue similar reconciliation efforts, potentially contributing to a more stable and cooperative Middle East.

Path to Resolution and Reconstruction :

As Ambassador Al-Mejfel assumes his role, there is optimism that Saudi-Syrian cooperation could contribute to efforts aimed at resolving the Syrian conflict and addressing the humanitarian crisis. This diplomatic milestone marks a pivotal moment in the history of bilateral relations, offering hope for a more collaborative future.

Correct Answer :   Dipa Karmakar

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The Indian gymnast, Dipa Karmakar, has scripted history by becoming the first-ever Indian to secure a gold medal in any Asian Championships. Hailing from Tripura, Dipa achieved this remarkable feat in the women’s vault individual final at the Asian Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Championships 2024, held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on May 26, 2024.

Dipa displayed an exceptional performance, scoring an average of 13.566 points to claim the coveted gold medal. The silver and bronze medals were bagged by Kim Son-hyang and Jo Kyong-byol, respectively, both representing the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), with scores of 13.466 and 12.966 points.

Despite her commendable achievement, Dipa narrowly missed securing a quota for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, as she finished 16th in the all-round category.

Indian Medallists at Asian Championships

* 2006, Surat – Ashish Kumar, bronze medal in the individual floor exercise final
* 2015, Hiroshima – Dipa Karmakar, bronze in vault individual final
* 2019, Ulaanbaatar – Pranati Nayak, bronze in the vault individual final
* 2022, Doha – Pranati Nayak won bronze in the vault individual final
* 2024, Tashkent – Dipa Karmakar, gold in vault individual final

About Dipa Karmakar :

* Dipa Karmakar, standing at just 4 feet 11 inches tall, hails from Tripura and is one of India’s most renowned and inspiring women gymnasts.
* She claimed her first international medal, a bronze, at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
* Dipa made history as the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for the Summer Olympics, participating in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she finished fourth in the vault event.
* In 2018, she became the first Indian ever to win a gold medal at a global gymnastics event, triumphing at the FIG World Cup in Mersin, Turkiye.
* Additionally, Dipa secured a bronze medal at the 2018 Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Germany.

Awards and Recognition :

* Dipa Karmakar was bestowed with India’s highest sports honor, the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (now Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award), in 2016.
* She was conferred with India’s fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri, in 2017, in recognition of her outstanding achievements.

Correct Answer :   Himachal Pradesh

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Himachal Pradesh has earned the nickname of "Fruit Basket State" due to the abundance and diversity of fruits grown here.

India, with its diverse landscapes and cultures, is known for its multitude of states, each with its own unique identity. Among these, Himachal Pradesh stands out as the “Fruit Basket State,” owing to its abundance of orchards and fruit cultivation. Let’s explore why Himachal Pradesh is referred to as the Fruit Basket State.

Why States are Given Unique Identities?

Before delving into why specific states are known by unique monikers, it’s essential to understand the rationale behind it. States are often identified by names that reflect their geographical features, local products, or cultural significance. These identities not only promote tourism but also contribute to the economic activities of the region.

Which State is Known as the Fruit Basket?

Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is renowned for its bountiful fruit production. The state’s temperate climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for cultivating a wide variety of fruits. As a result, Himachal Pradesh has earned the nickname “Fruit Basket State” due to the abundance and diversity of fruits grown here.

Why is Himachal Pradesh Known as the Fruit Basket?

The designation of Himachal Pradesh as the “Fruit Basket State” stems from its significant fruit cultivation. The state is known for producing a plethora of fruits, including apples, apricots, pears, strawberries, cherries, peaches, kiwis, and plums. The wide array of fruits grown in Himachal Pradesh contributes to the state’s agricultural prosperity and economic growth.

Major Fruits Grown in Himachal Pradesh :

In Himachal Pradesh, the primary fruits cultivated include:

* Apples
* Apricots
* Pears
* Strawberries
* Cherries
* Peaches
* Kiwis
* Plums

Correct Answer :   Google

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Google is investing $350 million in Walmart-owned e-commerce firm Flipkart as part of a $1 billion funding round. This investment aims to support Flipkart’s growth as it targets a $60 billion valuation at the time of its initial public offering (IPO), planned for 2025-26.

Investment Details :

* Amount : Google is investing $350 million.
* Funding Round : Part of a $1 billion funding round initiated by Flipkart in 2023.
* Valuation : The funding could increase Flipkart’s valuation to over $36 billion, a 5-10% premium on its previous $33 billion valuation post-PhonePe separation in December 2022.

Strategic Impact :

* Expansion Plans : The capital will be used to enhance infrastructure, seller support ecosystem, and incorporate advanced technologies like AI and generative AI.
* Market Position : The fundraise will bolster Flipkart’s position against competitors such as Amazon, Reliance JioMart, and Tata Digital.
* Customer Reach : Focus on reaching the next 200 million customers, particularly in Tier-II and -III cities and rural India.

Partnership Benefits :

* Google’s Cloud Services : Google will provide its Cloud services to modernize Flipkart’s digital infrastructure.
* Strategic Alignment : The collaboration aligns with Google’s $10 billion investment in India’s digitization fund.

IPO and Domicile Plans :

* IPO Timing : Flipkart is considering a 2025-26 IPO, potentially listing in India and other geographies including the US.
* Domicile Move : Plans to shift domicile from Singapore to India, which could offer significant tax benefits and align with IPO strategies.

Historical Context :

* Previous Fundraises : Flipkart raised $600 million from Walmart earlier and $3.6 billion in 2021 when including PhonePe.
* Walmart’s Stake : Walmart acquired a 77% stake in Flipkart for $16 billion in 2018, with PhonePe included as a bolt-on acquisition.

Market Trends :

* E-commerce Growth : India’s e-commerce sector is expected to grow from $59 billion in 2022 to $300 billion by 2030, driven by increased adoption in Tier-II cities and beyond.
* Flipkart’s Performance : The platform saw 1.4 billion visits during The Big Billion Days 2023 event, indicating strong consumer engagement.

Correct Answer :   30%

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Walt Disney Co. has struck a deal to sell its 30% minority stake in Tata Play Ltd. to Tata Group, valuing the company at approximately $1 billion. This move allows Disney to focus on merging its Indian unit with Mukesh Ambani’s Viacom 18 Media Pvt, forming an $8.5 billion entertainment giant.

Tata Group’s Full Control :

Tata Group will gain full control of Tata Play, a subscription television broadcaster, by acquiring Disney’s 29.8% stake. Earlier this year, Tata Group increased its stake to slightly over 70% by buying out Temasek Holding Pte’s shares.

Tata Play’s Background :

Incorporated in 2001 as a joint venture between Tata Group and TFCF Corp. (formerly Twenty-First Century Fox), Tata Play offers pay television services via set-top boxes and over-the-top streaming through its app. It has a nationwide footprint of 23 million connections.

Media Landscape Shakeup :

This deal is part of a larger transformation in India’s media landscape. Disney’s binding agreement to combine its Indian unit with Viacom 18 Media Pvt will create a media powerhouse with 750 million viewers.

IPO Plans :

Tata Play filed confidentially for a domestic initial public offering in 2022, but the listing has yet to occur.

No Comments from Parties Involved :

Representatives from Tata Group, Disney, and Temasek declined to comment on the transaction.

Correct Answer :   42%

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Smartphones have become a major export success story for India, now ranking as the fourth-largest export item with a 42% growth, reaching $15.6 billion in FY24. This marks an improvement by one notch in the ranking from the preceding year. Data collection for smartphones as a separate category began in April 2022, highlighting the sector’s rapid growth.

Key Growth Factors :

The significant rise in smartphone exports is attributed to a 158% increase in shipments to the US, amounting to $5.6 billion. Other major markets include the United Arab Emirates ($2.6 billion), the Netherlands ($1.2 billion), and the UK ($1.1 billion). The total value of mobile devices produced in India for both export and domestic markets in FY24 surged to Rs 4.1 trillion ($49.16 billion), representing a 17% year-on-year increase.

Impact of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme :

The government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been instrumental in this growth, positioning India as the second-largest mobile phone manufacturing country after China. The PLI scheme aims to attract companies manufacturing in China to shift to India, leveraging geopolitical tensions between China and the US. Notable beneficiaries include Apple’s vendors—Foxconn, Wistron India (now Tata Electronics), and Pegatron—along with Samsung.

Apple’s Leading Role :

Apple has significantly contributed to the export surge, with outbound shipments of mobile devices expected to exceed Rs 1.2 trillion ($14.39 billion) in FY24, a 33% increase from Rs 90,000 crore in FY23. Preliminary ICEA data indicates that exports in FY24 accounted for nearly 30% of the total output value, up from 25% in FY23.

Future Outlook :

The robust growth in smartphone exports underscores the effectiveness of India’s PLI scheme and highlights the country’s strategic shift in the global electronics manufacturing landscape. This growth trajectory is expected to continue, further solidifying India’s position as a key player in the global smartphone market.

Correct Answer :   Microsoft

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Microsoft has introduced a new category of personal computers, ‘Copilot+ PCs,’ featuring advanced AI capabilities to compete with Alphabet and Apple. These devices, developed in collaboration with Acer and ASUSTeK Computer, aim to perform AI tasks locally without relying on cloud data centers. The launch event took place at Microsoft’s Redmond, Washington campus on May 20, with sales starting on June 18 at a base price of $1,000.

Innovative ‘Recall’ Feature :

CEO Satya Nadella highlighted the ‘Recall’ feature, which tracks all activities on the computer, creating a searchable history for users. This functionality extends to web browsing, voice chats, and more, enhancing user convenience and productivity.

Copilot+ Voice Assistant :

The Copilot+ voice assistant was showcased as a real-time virtual coach for Minecraft players, demonstrating the integration of AI to enhance user experiences in various applications.

Market Impact and Sales Projections :

Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s head of consumer marketing, projected that 50 million AI PCs would be sold over the next year. He emphasized that the faster AI assistants running directly on a PC would provide a compelling reason for users to upgrade their devices.

New Surface Devices and Prism Technology :

Microsoft also unveiled the latest generation of its Surface Pro tablet and Surface Laptop, featuring Qualcomm chips based on Arm Holdings’ architecture. The new Prism technology was introduced, enabling software designed for Intel and AMD chips to run on Arm-based chips.

Competitive Edge Against Apple :

In a demonstration, Microsoft’s new devices outperformed an Apple device running Adobe’s photo editing software, highlighting the superior speed and efficiency of the Copilot+ PCs. This follows Apple’s recent announcement of an AI-focused chip for future laptops.

Industry and Market Context :

The launch of Copilot+ PCs comes as Microsoft’s shares are trading near record highs, driven by optimism about AI’s potential to boost profits. Despite a decline in global PC shipments by about 15% last year, Microsoft anticipates its new Copilot+ PCs will capture approximately one-fifth of the market.

Correct Answer :   China

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China is the most apple producing country in the world.

Apples are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits globally, cherished for their nutritional value and versatility. Among the many countries involved in apple cultivation, China stands out as the world’s largest producer of apples. This article delves into the details of China’s apple production, examining the factors behind its dominance, the scale of production, and the impact on the global market.

Worldwide Apple Production :

Worldwide apple production surged to an impressive 95.84 million metric tons, marking a notable increase from around 83.1 million tons recorded in 2017. This substantial rise underscores the continuous growth and importance of the apple industry on a global scale. With advancements in technology and agricultural practices, coupled with increasing demand, the global apple production sector continues to thrive, providing consumers worldwide with a diverse range of delicious and nutritious fruits.

Most Apple Producing Country in the World :

China’s apple production is unparalleled, with the country consistently producing more apples than any other nation. As of recent data, China produces over 40 million metric tons of apples annually, accounting for nearly half of the world’s total apple output. This vast production dwarfs other leading apple-producing countries such as the United States, Poland, and India.

Major Apple-Producing Regions :

China’s apple orchards are spread across several key regions, each contributing significantly to the overall production:

* Shandong Province : Known as the “home of apples” in China, Shandong is the largest apple-producing region, renowned for its high-quality Fuji apples.
* Shaanxi Province : This region is noted for its rich soil and favorable climate, producing large quantities of apples with a focus on both quality and quantity.
* Hebei Province : Another major player in the apple industry, Hebei contributes significantly to China’s apple exports.

Varieties of Apples

China cultivates a wide variety of apples, catering to both domestic and international markets. The most prominent varieties include:

* Fuji : Known for its sweetness and crisp texture, the Fuji apple is the most popular variety both in China and abroad.
* Gala : These apples are favored for their thin skin and juicy, mildly sweet flavor.
* Red Delicious : Recognized by their deep red color and slightly tart taste, Red Delicious apples are also a major export product.

Factors Behind China’s Dominance :

Several factors contribute to China’s leading position in apple production:

* Climate and Geography : The diverse climates and fertile soils across China’s apple-growing regions provide ideal conditions for apple cultivation.
* Investment in Agriculture : China has heavily invested in modern agricultural techniques, infrastructure, and research to boost apple production and quality.
* Labor Force : The availability of a large, skilled labor force enables extensive apple farming and efficient harvesting processes.

Impact on the Global Market :

China’s dominance in apple production has significant implications for the global market. The country not only meets its vast domestic demand but also exports apples worldwide, influencing global apple prices and availability. Major export destinations include Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its leading position, China’s apple industry faces several challenges, including:

* Environmental Concerns : Over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides poses environmental risks and affects sustainability.
* Market Competition : Increasing competition from other apple-producing nations requires constant innovation and quality improvement.
* Climate Change : Changing weather patterns threaten the stability of apple production in some regions.

The future outlook for China’s apple industry remains positive, with ongoing efforts to adopt sustainable farming practices and expand export markets. Innovations in agricultural technology and improved logistics are expected to further strengthen China’s position as the world’s leading apple producer.

Correct Answer :   Tokyo

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The University of Tokyo has inaugurated the Atacama Observatory (TAO), which has been awarded a Guinness World Record for being the highest observatory in the world. Situated at a staggering 5,640 meters above sea level on the summit of Cerro Chajnantor in the Antofagasta Region of Chile, TAO stands as a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

Unveiling a 6.5-meter Optical-Infrared Telescope :

At the heart of TAO lies a 6.5-meter optical-infrared telescope, designed to unravel the mysteries of the universe. This state-of-the-art instrument will focus on exploring the fundamental nature of the cosmos, contributing to our ever-expanding knowledge of the universe we inhabit.

A Unique Location for Astronomical Observation  :

TAO’s location was carefully chosen for its exceptional atmospheric conditions. With minimal water vapor in the atmosphere, the observatory offers an unparalleled vantage point for observing mid-infrared wavelengths, which are typically absorbed by water vapor at lower altitudes.

Overcoming Challenges in High-Altitude Construction :

The construction of TAO was a monumental undertaking, spanning 26 years of meticulous planning and execution. Takashi Miyata, director of the Atacama Observatory and manager of TAO’s construction, acknowledged the incredible challenges faced not only from a technical perspective but also politically.

Mitigating Altitude Sickness Risks :

To address the risks of altitude sickness for construction workers and astronomers, especially during nighttime operations when symptoms can worsen, a base facility has been constructed in San Pedro de Atacama, approximately 50km from the summit. This facility allows for remote operation of the telescope, ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved in TAO’s operations.

Proximity to ALMA: A Collaborative Astronomical Hub :

TAO is strategically located near the ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array) radio telescope, one of the world’s largest astronomical projects involving an international association of countries. This proximity creates a collaborative hub for astronomical research, fostering collaboration and synergy among scientists from around the globe.

With the inauguration of TAO, the University of Tokyo has firmly established its presence at the forefront of astronomical exploration, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and advancing our understanding of the vast cosmos.

Correct Answer :   Saharanpur

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Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich and diverse culture, is a state that boasts ancient traditions and a unique heritage. This northern Indian state is recognized for its significant contributions to religion, literature, industry, and culture.

Among its 75 districts, each with its own distinct identity, one district stands out as the “City of Oranges” – Saharanpur. In this article, we will explore why Saharanpur holds this unique title.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh :

Uttar Pradesh is the state with the highest number of districts in India, totaling 75. These districts are organized into 18 divisions. Additionally, the state has 822 community development blocks, 351 tehsils (sub-districts), and 17 municipal corporations. The state’s geographical extremities are defined by Ballia in the east, Shamli in the west, Saharanpur in the north, and Sonbhadra in the south.

Lakhimpur Kheri is the largest district in Uttar Pradesh, covering an area of 7680 square kilometers. In contrast, Hapur is the smallest district, spanning just 660 square kilometers.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as “The Orange City”?

Saharanpur, a district in Uttar Pradesh, is known as “The Orange City” due to its significant orange production. With approximately 32,000 hectares dedicated to fruit cultivation, Saharanpur excels in producing oranges, alongside mangoes, guavas, lychees, and peaches. This high yield of oranges, distributed across various states, has earned Saharanpur its distinctive title.

Why is Saharanpur Known as the “Orange City”?

Saharanpur earns its title due to its significant orange production. The district has around 32,000 hectares dedicated to fruit cultivation, which includes mangoes, guavas, lychees, oranges, and peaches. Among these, oranges are the most extensively produced, contributing to Saharanpur’s nickname.

Agricultural Significance of Saharanpur :

* Fruit Cultivation Area : Approximately 32,000 hectares.
* Major Fruits : Mangoes, guavas, lychees, oranges, and peaches.
* Primary Crop : Oranges are the most prominent, with substantial yields transported across various states in India.