Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2025

Correct Answer :   John Slaven

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Vedanta Aluminium has announced the appointment of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), John Slaven, as the Vice-Chairman of the International Aluminium Institute (IAI). In this prominent role, Slaven will spearhead global initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable transformation within the aluminium industry and highlighting aluminium’s crucial role in advancing the energy transition towards a Zero Carbon future.

The International Aluminium Institute: A Pioneering Organization :

Established in 1972, the International Aluminium Institute (IAI) is the sole organization representing the global primary aluminium industry. Its mission is to increase awareness of the industry’s operations, advocate for responsible production, and emphasize the significant environmental benefits of aluminium.

The IAI’s membership comprises the world’s leading bauxite, alumina, and aluminium companies, and it maintains extensive global data on the industry, with over 40 years of analysis on production, consumption, energy use, and environmental impact.

A Leader’s Vision for Sustainable Transformation :

Commenting on his new role, John Slaven expressed his honour in taking on the responsibility of Vice-Chairman of the International Aluminium Institute. He highlighted aluminium’s critical role in the global shift towards a Net Zero future and emphasized the duty of industry leaders to enhance awareness of aluminium’s vast potential and promote its use in creating a greener planet.

Slaven acknowledged the significant strides the IAI had made in this direction and looked forward to collaborating with his fellow board members to further establish aluminium as the metal of the future.

An Accomplished Industry Veteran :

John Slaven is a respected global leader with over 30 years of experience in the metals, mining, and modern manufacturing industries. He has held diverse positions in top companies within these sectors, contributing to transformative advancements.

As the CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, Slaven oversees the company’s growth strategy while prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts and promoting sustainable practices. Under his leadership, Vedanta Aluminium has been recognized as the most sustainable aluminium company in the world.

Aluminium’s Pivotal Role in Sustainable Development :

Aluminium, a lightweight and infinitely recyclable metal, plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable development and combating climate change. Its unique properties make it an indispensable material in various industries, including transportation, construction, and renewable energy.

By promoting the use of aluminium in these sectors, the industry can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the global effort to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Collaborating for a Greener Future :

As Vice-Chairman of the IAI, Slaven will work closely with industry leaders and stakeholders to drive initiatives that foster sustainable practices and highlight aluminium’s potential in creating a greener planet.

This collaborative effort aims to enhance awareness among policymakers, investors, and consumers about the environmental benefits of aluminium and its role in achieving a zero-carbon future.

Correct Answer :   $1.5 Billion

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AstraZeneca is building a pioneering $1.5 billion manufacturing plant in Singapore to produce advanced cancer-fighting drugs known as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical company, announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Singapore with a focus on producing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a promising class of cancer-fighting medications.

Strategic Investment in Singapore :

The new facility marks AstraZeneca’s significant investment in Singapore’s pharmaceutical landscape, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board. This move aligns with AstraZeneca’s strategy of expanding its global supply chain and tapping into Singapore’s reputation for excellence in complex manufacturing.

Advancing Cancer Therapy with ADCs :

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are engineered antibodies designed to target and destroy tumor cells by delivering cell-killing chemicals directly to the site. AstraZeneca’s investment underscores its commitment to developing innovative cancer treatments and addressing unmet medical needs.

Building a Cutting-Edge Manufacturing Hub :

The facility will be AstraZeneca’s first end-to-end ADC production site, handling all stages of ADC production, from antibody generation to final product filling. With construction set to begin by the end of 2024 and operations expected to commence in 2029, the facility will play a crucial role in AstraZeneca’s global manufacturing network.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation :

AstraZeneca aims to ensure environmental sustainability by committing to zero carbon emissions from the facility’s first day of operations. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to responsible manufacturing practices and its contribution to a greener future.

Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation :

The Economic Development Board of Singapore welcomed AstraZeneca’s investment as it aligns with the country’s goal of becoming a hub for precision medicine manufacturing. The project is expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in Singapore’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

Correct Answer :   Dubai

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The Artara’24 Fine Arts Exhibition and Competition has made its mark in Dubai as a prestigious platform for discovering and nurturing emerging artistic talents from India. The event aimed to uncover hidden artistic gems, with a particular focus on the Indian talent residing in Dubai.

Providing a Stage for Lesser-Known Artists :

Artara’24 provided a prestigious stage for lesser-known artists, students, and art enthusiasts to showcase their extraordinary abilities and connect with fellow creative minds. Held at the Al Jalila Cultural Center, a venue under the Dubai Cultural Center, the exhibition featured an impressive collection of over 250 pieces of art, each telling its own unique story and reflecting the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the talented participants.

Celebrating Diversity through Art :

The exhibition proudly showcased artworks from multi-national artists, with many exhibiting their work for the first time, making this event a significant milestone in their artistic journey. In addition to the main exhibition, a fine arts competition for children called Expressions’24 provided a supportive and inspiring environment for young artists to express their creativity and compete with their peers.

Nurturing Budding Artists :

“Our primary motive is to nurture budding artists in the country and introduce them to the world,” said Mr. Rejimon, Spokesperson for Jazzrockers, the organizer behind the event. “Events like Artara’24 are crucial for developing and recognizing artistic talents across all ages, while also celebrating the rich cultural diversity of India through the lens of art.”

Fostering Unity and Cultural Pride :

Artara’24 has not only spotlighted the incredible talent within the Indian community but has also fostered a sense of unity and cultural pride among participants and visitors alike. The exhibition served as a platform for artists to express their unique perspectives and experiences, while also celebrating the rich tapestry of Indian culture through various artistic mediums.

Correct Answer :   39th

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India has ascended to the 39th spot in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, marking a significant improvement from its 54th position in 2021. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, India showcases resilience and competitiveness in various aspects of its travel and tourism industry.

India’s Strengths and Performance

Resource Pillars : India boasts high price competitiveness (18th) and possesses competitive air transport (26th) as well as ground and port (25th) infrastructure. Its robust natural (6th), cultural (9th), and non-leisure (9th) resources contribute significantly to its travel appeal, making it one of the top performers globally.

Sustainability and Recovery : Despite a decline compared to 2019, India maintains strong sustainability in travel and tourism demand, especially with the rise of sustainable long stays among inbound visitors. However, challenges such as global inflationary trends impact price competitiveness, and the recovery of air transport and tourist services infrastructure remains below pre-pandemic levels.

Overall TTDI Score : India’s overall Travel and Tourism Development Index score is 2.1% lower than its 2019 level, reflecting the mixed nature of the sector’s recovery globally. High-income economies in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region lead the index, but India stands out as a top performer among lower-middle-income nations and in South Asia.

Global Travel Trends and Recovery Rates : The report highlights varying recovery rates in international tourist arrivals across regions, with West Asia leading with a 20% surpassing of 2019 levels. However, overall recovery rates hover around 90% in Europe, Africa, and North and South America by 2023.

Enabling Conditions in Developing Economies : While conditions for travel and tourism are improving in developing nations, efforts are needed to narrow the gap with high-income economies. Several developing countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Côte d’Ivoire, Albania, Tanzania, and Indonesia, have notably improved their TTDI scores, showcasing potential for growth and development in the sector.

Correct Answer :   Tata Motors

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Tata Motors’ subsidiaries, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility (TPEM), have teamed up with Bajaj Finance to offer an innovative financing programme for their authorised passenger and electric vehicle dealers. This partnership aims to streamline financing options and support the business operations of these dealers.

Market Impact and Sales Growth :

TMPV and TPEM continue to lead the Indian automotive market with their pioneering efforts in both the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV) segments. Tata Motors reported an 11.5% year-on-year increase in total wholesales last month, with 77,521 units sold compared to 69,599 units in April 2023.

Total passenger vehicle sales saw a 2% rise to 47,983 units from 47,107 units in April 2023. TPEM, which boasts a robust EV portfolio including the Nexon EV, Tigor EV, Tiago EV, Xpres-T, and Punch EV, sold 4,701 units in April, maintaining a dominant 71.47% market share. In FY2024, the company sold 73,833 EVs, marking a 48% year-on-year growth.

Statements from Leadership :

Gupta, representing Tata Motors, emphasized the importance of dealer partners, stating, “Our dealer partners are integral to our business, and we are happy to actively work towards solutions to help them in ease of doing business. Together, we aim to further grow the market and offer our New Forever portfolio to an increasing set of customers.”

Anup Saha, Deputy Managing Director of Bajaj Finance Ltd, highlighted the benefits of the partnership, saying, “Through this financing programme, we will arm TMPV and TPEM’s authorised passenger and electric vehicle dealers with financial capital, which will enable them to seize the opportunities offered by a growing passenger vehicles market.”

About Bajaj Finance :

Bajaj Finance, a prominent Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) in India, serves over 83.64 million customers, providing a wide range of financial services and solutions.

Correct Answer :   May 20

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Every year May 20 is celebrated as World Refugee Day. This day was celebrated for the first time on 20 May 2001.

The year 2001 also marked the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.

India has not signed the 1951 Refugee Convention, but has been active in UNHCR since 1981. 

Correct Answer :   21 May

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Every year, on May 21, India observes National Anti-Terrorism Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of terrorism and the importance of unity in combating this global menace. It also commemorates the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was killed by a suicide bomber on this day in 1991.

The observance of this day serves as a solemn reminder of the need for vigilance and the collective responsibility to eradicate terrorism in all its forms.

National Anti-Terrorism Day History :

* National Anti-Terrorism Day was first observed in 1992, a year after the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. Gandhi, the youngest Prime Minister of India at 40, was a prominent advocate for peace and modernisation. His assassination by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was a stark reminder of the devastating impact of terrorism on society.

* The suicide bombing assassination occurred during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The LTTE orchestrated this attack in retaliation for Gandhi's decision to deploy the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka in 1987. The IPKF was intended to enforce a peace accord between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE, but it ultimately led to prolonged conflict and significant casualties.

* In the wake of his death, the Indian government established National Anti-Terrorism Day to honour his legacy and to promote awareness about the severe consequences of terrorist activities.

National Anti-Terrorism Day Significance :

* The National Anti-Terrorism Day serves as a platform to educate the public about the various forms of terrorism and their far-reaching impacts on human lives, economic stability, and social harmony.

* The day is marked by a range of activities, including debates, discussions, and educational programs in schools and colleges. These initiatives aim to instill a sense of responsibility among the younger generation to contribute to the fight against terrorism.

* Furthermore, government officials, security forces, and civil society organisations participate in various events to reinforce the importance of unity and resilience. The observance of this day also involves the administration of a pledge, wherein individuals commit to oppose all forms of terrorism and violence.

* This pledge is a reaffirmation of the collective resolve to safeguard the nation from terrorist threats..

Source : Money Control

Correct Answer :   May 21

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The world celebrates International Tea Day on May 21st, a day designated by the United Nations to highlight the cultural and economic significance of tea. Tea, the world's most consumed beverage after water, boasts a long and rich history, with evidence of its consumption in China dating back 5,000 years.

Beyond its delicious taste, tea offers a range of health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The tea industry is a crucial source of income and jobs, particularly in developing countries, where millions of families rely on tea production for their livelihood. This year's International Tea Day specifically honours the role women play throughout the tea production chain, "from crop to cup."

The UN emphasises the importance of sustainable tea production for the benefit of future generations. This focus extends to environmental concerns, as tea production is sensitive to climate change. The UN urges tea-producing countries to develop strategies that address both adaptation to and mitigation of climate change's impact.

Beyond a beverage, a balm for the soul :

For tea enthusiasts, this simple cup of brewed leaves transcends a mere drink. It's a steaming hug in a mug-a comforting ritual steeped in tradition. Tea can be a trusted companion, offering solace for a broken heart or a weary mind. Its diverse flavours and aromas can transport you to faraway lands or evoke cherished memories.

A cultural cornerstone :

Tea ceremonies in Japan are steeped in mindfulness and tranquilly, while sharing a cup of chai in India fosters connection and community. From afternoon tea in England to Moroccan mint tea, the way tea is prepared and consumed varies greatly around the world, yet it universally holds a special place in many cultures.

Tea outlook for 2027 :

Looking ahead, the UN report "Current Market Situation and Medium-Term Outlook" predicts that global tea consumption and production are projected to keep rising over the next decade, driven by robust demand in developing and emerging countries. This will create new rural income opportunities and improve food security in tea-producing countries.

Correct Answer :   UNDP

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The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (20th May 2024) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India on Digitalization of Vaccine Cold Chain Management, Capacity Building, and Communication Planning.

The MOU was signed today at “We the People Hall”, UNDP Country office, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi between Smt. Alka Upadhyay, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Ms. Caitlin Wiesen. UNDP Resident Representative in India. This strategic partnership aims to enhance the digitalization of vaccine cold chain management, capacity building, and communication planning in India.

Addressing the Meeting Smt. Alka Upadhyay highlighted Strong and efficient supply chains equipped with reliable cold chain equipment are vital to increase immunization coverage and outreach.  She added, Considering the large human population and livestock population in India with 142.86 Crore people, 53.57 Crore farm animals and 85.18 Crore poultry population, catering all the veterinary services to the doorstep of farmers and to ensure the nutritional security of the large population is a challenge.

She further explained “With digitalization of the entire vaccine stock management system and providing real-time information on vaccine stocks and flows, and storage temperatures, the inequities in vaccine supply will be addressed by managing constraints of infrastructure, management information systems, and human resources. The vaccine cold chain management process, she added will be monitored with the help of new age technology and artificial intelligence through the Animal vaccine Intelligence Network (AVIN) developed by UNDP.

UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Caitlin Wiesen, while signing the MoU, said that “Amid confluence of frequent zoonotic disease outbreak and climate change, animals and the communities engaged in rearing them are increasingly vulnerable. She added that through this partnership with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, UNDP will support and strengthen India’s first animal vaccine supply chain management system ensuring communities and animals are protected and further mitigating the risks at the human-animal-environment interface.”

Smt Sarita Chauhan, Joint Secretary (LH), DAHD while explaining  the objectives of collaboration mentioned that, the essential but arduous work of real time monitoring of the vast cold chain infrastructure available across the country will be possible with the help of new age technology and artificial intelligence through the cold chain monitoring system developed by UNDP, which will support the Department to manage and deliver vaccines across the country in the right quantity, right quality, at the right time and right temperature with supportive supervision..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Florida

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Florida is known as "The Sunshine State" due to its abundant sunshine and pleasant climate.

The United States is known for its diverse range of state nicknames, each reflecting unique aspects of its culture, geography, or history. One such moniker is “The Sunshine State,” bestowed upon Florida for its abundant sunshine and pleasant climate. Let’s delve into the origins, significance, and usage of this iconic nickname.

Which State of United States is Known as “The Sunshine State”?

Florida is known as “The Sunshine State” due to its abundant sunshine and pleasant climate. This nickname was officially adopted by the 1970 Legislature, reflecting the state’s reputation for sunny weather throughout the year. With its subtropical and tropical climate, Florida enjoys ample sunlight, making it a favored destination for tourists seeking sunny skies and outdoor activities.

Why is Florida Known as “The Sunshine State”?

Florida earned the moniker “Sunshine State” due to its abundant sunshine and favorable climate. With its subtropical and tropical climate, the state experiences sunny weather throughout the year, attracting tourists and residents alike. The nickname was officially adopted by the 1970 Legislature, highlighting Florida’s reputation for sunshine and warmth. Its flat terrain, low elevation, and geographical location further contribute to its exposure to sunlight, making it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts and sun-seekers.

Geographical and Climatic Features of Florida :

Florida’s geographical location, extending into the southeastern United States and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, contributes to its sunny climate. The state’s flat terrain and low elevation further enhance its exposure to sunlight, earning it the distinction of being “The Sunshine State.”

Tourism and Outdoor Recreation :

The abundance of sunshine in Florida plays a pivotal role in shaping its tourism industry and outdoor recreational activities. From world-renowned beaches and theme parks to nature reserves and water sports, the state’s sunny weather attracts millions of visitors annually, seeking to bask in its warm rays and enjoy its outdoor attractions.