Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2026

Correct Answer :   6.7%

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The Indian economy showed robust growth in the first three quarters of the 2023-24 fiscal year, with GDP expanding by 8.2% in the June quarter, 8.1% in the September quarter, and 8.4% in the December quarter. India Ratings and Research (Ind-RA) expects the GDP growth rate to be 6.7% for the March quarter and around 6.9-7% for the entire fiscal year (2024), according to their principal economist, Sunil Kumar Sinha. The official GDP numbers for Q4 and provisional estimates for FY24 will be released on May 31.

Quarterly Performance :

June Quarter : GDP growth at 8.2%
September Quarter : GDP growth at 8.1%
December Quarter : GDP growth at 8.4%

Factors Influencing Growth :

The growth rates in the first two quarters benefited from a low base effect. The surprising 8.4% growth in the third quarter was significantly influenced by higher tax collections, creating a notable wedge between GDP and Gross Value Added (GVA). In Q3, while GVA was at 6.5%, GDP reached 8.4% due to this tax collection boost. This phenomenon is not expected to be repeated in Q4, which is projected to grow by 6.7%.

Reserve Bank and Fiscal Projections :

The Reserve Bank of India projected a GDP growth rate of 7% for 2023-24 in its April monetary policy review. Sinha expects the GDP to expand by 7.1% in the current fiscal year, continuing the momentum observed in the first half.

Sectoral Contributions and Future Outlook :

Services Sector: Led by construction and electricity, expected to maintain momentum.
Lagging Sectors: Mining and industrial output.
Rural Demand: Predicted above-normal monsoon may revive rural demand, supporting broader consumption.

Ministry and Economic Review :

The Finance Ministry highlighted India’s resilient growth, robust economic indicators, price stability, and steady external sector performance. Despite global uncertainties, India remains the fastest-growing major economy with a positive growth outlook supported by both international organizations and the RBI.

Correct Answer :   May 18th

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International Museum Day, celebrated annually on May 18th in the world to raise public awareness of the invaluable role museums play in preserving artistic, cultural, and historical artifacts. This day highlights the educational and cultural contributions of museums, showcasing their importance as repositories of knowledge and history. Let’s delve into the details of International Museum Day 2024, exploring its date, history, theme, significance, and celebrations.

International Museum Day 2024 – Date :

International Museum Day is celebrated every year on May 18. In 2024, the event falls on a Saturday, providing an excellent opportunity for people to visit museums and participate in various activities and events organized to mark the occasion.

International Museum Day 2024 – Theme :

Each year, International Museum Day focuses on a specific theme that addresses relevant topics or challenges faced by museums globally. The theme for International Museum Day 2024 is “Museums for Education and Research.” This theme underscores the essential role of museums as cultural institutions that provide comprehensive educational experiences and support research initiatives. It highlights how museums contribute to lifelong learning and the advancement of knowledge.

History of International Museum Day :

The first International Museum Day was organized in 1977 by the International Council of Museums (ICOM). This initiative was born from a resolution aimed at creating an annual event to unite the creative efforts of museums worldwide and raise global awareness about their activities. Since its inception, museums across the globe have been invited to participate in this celebration each year. In 1992, ICOM began the tradition of adopting an annual theme, and in 1997, an international poster was introduced, embraced by 28 countries.

Significance of International Museum Day :

International Museum Day holds significant importance in emphasizing the vital role museums play in society. Established by ICOM, this day aims to unite museums worldwide and showcase their efforts in raising awareness, fostering understanding, and promoting the appreciation of diverse cultures. Museums serve as educational platforms that offer valuable insights into the lifestyles, tools, and creations of ancient civilizations, making them crucial repositories of history. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge and honor the dedication of museums to preserving and sharing human heritage.

International Museum Day 2024 – Celebrations

International Museum Day is celebrated with various activities and events organized by museums around the world. These celebrations often include :

* Special Exhibitions and Tours : Museums curate unique exhibitions and guided tours that align with the annual theme, offering visitors deeper insights into specific topics.
* Workshops and Educational Programs : Interactive workshops, lectures, and educational programs are held to engage the public and promote learning.
* Community Events : Museums collaborate with local communities to host cultural performances, art shows, and other events that highlight the region’s heritage.
* Free or Discounted Entry : Many museums offer free or discounted admission on this day to encourage more people to visit and explore their collections.
* Online Events : In recent years, virtual tours, online workshops, and digital exhibitions have become popular, allowing global participation in International Museum Day.

Correct Answer :   May 18th

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World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually on May 18th. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent need for AIDS vaccines and acknowledging the efforts of individuals, including doctors, scientists, and community members, who are committed to developing vaccines to combat HIV/AIDS.

Understanding AIDS :

AIDS, which stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The disease was first reported in 1981 in the United States. HIV attacks the body’s immune system, gradually weakening it over time. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS, wherein the immune system is severely compromised, making the body vulnerable to various infections and diseases.

History of World AIDS Vaccine Day :

World AIDS Vaccine Day traces its origins to a speech delivered by then-President Bill Clinton at Morgan State University on May 18, 1997. In his address, President Clinton emphasized the critical importance of developing a vaccine to halt the spread of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Since then, May 18th has been globally recognized as a day to promote awareness about HIV/AIDS and the imperative need for a vaccine.

Theme for World’s AIDS Vaccine Day 2024 :

While the theme for World AIDS Vaccine Day 2024 has not yet been announced, the overarching focus remains on innovative research, accelerated vaccine development, and protective measures to realize the goal of an AIDS-free world. In 2023, the theme, ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,’ highlighted the importance of raising awareness and taking appropriate measures for disease prevention.

Significance of World’s AIDS Vaccine Day :

World AIDS Vaccine Day holds significant importance in acknowledging the progress made in AIDS research and underscoring the ongoing efforts required to combat the disease. It serves as a poignant reminder of the global commitment needed to develop an effective vaccine that can prevent HIV infections and ultimately eradicate AIDS. Moreover, the day serves to honor the dedication of individuals tirelessly working towards the development of an AIDS vaccine and promotes awareness about prevention efforts.

Awareness Initiatives :

On World AIDS Vaccine Day, numerous organizations and governments worldwide organize various programs and events to educate communities about HIV/AIDS prevention and control. These initiatives aim to dispel misconceptions surrounding the disease, encourage HIV testing and early diagnosis, and advocate for accessible treatment and support services.

Correct Answer :   India and Britain

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* India and Britain have reaffirmed their commitment to conclude a mutually beneficial free trade agreement (FTA) at the annual U.K.-India Strategic Dialogue in London, as the two sides reflected the "good progress" on the 2030 Roadmap since the last review.

* Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, who is on a visit to the U.K., held discussions with his counterpart, Sir Philip Barton, Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Friday (17th May 2024).

* After their meeting, the FCDO said the two leaders reviewed the progress made on the U.K.-India 2030 Roadmap since the last strategic dialogue in January last year and looked ahead to the next phase of bilateral cooperation.

* “The two reflected on good progress on the 2030 Roadmap since the last review, noting key areas where the UK and India have worked together to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges,” the FCDO said in a statement.

* “This included collaborating on the world’s first malaria vaccine, working closely on India’s successful G20 Presidency and increasing opportunities for students and entrepreneurs under the Migration and Mobility Partnership," the statement said.

* "Alongside celebrating the milestones since the last review, this year’s dialogue included the ongoing commitment to negotiate a mutually beneficial free trade agreement (FTA) and enhance defence cooperation,” it added.

* Earlier, the High Commission of India in London said Mr. Kwatra also had a “fruitful meeting” with U.K. Minister of State for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge, during which they discussed ongoing India-U.K. defence capability cooperation initiatives and avenues for future collaboration.

* “We are delighted to host Indian Foreign Secretary Kwatra in London to underline the UK’s commitment to deepening cooperation with India," said Lord Tariq Ahmad, FCDO Minister for South Asia, after his meeting with the Foreign Secretary, which his office said covered the FTA, migration and the Commonwealth.

* "I look forward to our relationship going from strength to strength, working together on trade, defence, climate, and health,” he added.

* The 2030 Roadmap was clinched between India and the U.K. in 2021 and includes commitments to deepen cooperation on health, climate, trade, education, science and technology, and defence by 2030.

* India and the U.K. have held 13 rounds of talks on the FTA. The 14th round started in January.

* There are 26 chapters in the agreement, including goods, services, investments, and intellectual property rights.

* The Indian industry is demanding greater access for its skilled professionals from sectors like IT and healthcare in the UK market, besides market access for several goods at nil customs duty.

* On the other hand, the U.K. is seeking a significant cut in import duties on goods such as scotch whiskey, electric vehicles, lamb meat, chocolates, and certain confectionary items.

* Britain is also looking for more opportunities for U.K. services in Indian markets in segments like telecommunications, legal and financial services (banking and insurance).

* The bilateral trade between India and the U.K. increased to $20.36 billion in 2022-23 from $17.5 billion in 2021-22..

Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   15 May 2024

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Noted storyteller and Padma Shri awardee Malti Joshi passed away at the age of 90 years at her residence in New Delhi on 15 May 2024. She was suffering from oesophagus cancer. Malti Joshi was known for her work in Hindi and Marathi language. She was awarded Padam Shri in 2018.

Malti Joshi as a Hindi and Marathi story writer :

* Malti Joshi was born on June 4, 1934, in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, Malti Joshi was brought up in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. She did her schooling at Malav Kanya Vidyalaya in the city. She completed her graduation from the Holkar College of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Indore. He also did her Master's from the same university in Hindi literature in 1956.

* She was a prolific writer who wrote in Hindi and Marathi. However, she is best known for her Hindi literature works.

* In the early stages of her writing, Malti Joshi wrote poems, and in college she was famous as  Meera of Malwa.

Malti Joshi Main Story Collections :

* Malti Joshi's major story collections include Pashan Yug, Madhyantar, Samarpan ka Sukh, Mann Na Hue Dus Bees, Malti Joshi's ki  Kahaniyan, Ek Ghar Ho Sapno Ka, Vishwas Gatha, Aakhri Shatti, Mori Rang De Chunariya, Ek Sarthak Din, etc. She has also written children's story collections like Dadi Ki Ghadi, Jeene Ki Raah, Pariksha Aur Puraskar, Sneh K Swar, Sacha Singar, etc.

* She has also written novels and auto-memoirs. Patakshep, Sahcharini, Shobha Yatra, Raga Virag, etc., are prominent among the novels. At the same time, she also wrote a song collection, Mera Chhota Sa Apnapan.

* She also wrote a memoir autobiography called Is Pyaar Ko Kya Naam doon.

* Malti Joshi's work has been translated into other Indian languages like  Marathi, Urdu, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Malayalam, and Kannada. Her work has also been translated into foreign languages like Russian, Japanese and English.

* Several of  Malti Joshi’s stories were adapted for television, which was telecasted by Doordarshan. The Saat Phere serial, telecasted on Doordarshan and produced by Jaya Bachchan, was based on Malti Joshi’s story. Her story is also featured in the television serial ‘Kiraddar’, produced by Gulzar.

Correct Answer :   Iran

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India has signed a 10-year agreement to develop and operate Iran’s strategic Chabahar Port to strengthen trade ties with Central Asia and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. However, this deal faces potential US sanctions, complicating New Delhi’s strategic objectives.

Strategic Importance of Chabahar Port :

The Chabahar Port, located in southeastern Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, is crucial for India’s trade ambitions. By operating a terminal in the Shahid Beheshti section, India aims to establish a direct trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, circumventing its rival Pakistan. Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the port’s role as a vital trade artery for India.

Details of the Agreement :

India Port Global Limited (IPGL) and Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO) signed the deal, committing India to invest $120 million into the port’s terminal over ten years, with an additional $250 million loan facility, bringing the total contract value to $370 million. This agreement, revived post-2015 Iran nuclear deal sanctions relief, aims to solidify the infrastructure and operational capabilities of the port.

US Sanctions Threat :

The US has issued a warning about potential sanctions for entities engaging with Iran. US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel cautioned businesses of the risks involved in deals with Iran. Despite this, India’s Foreign Minister "Subrahmanyam Jaishankar " expressed confidence in communicating the strategic benefits of the port to the US, advocating for a broader understanding of its significance.

Historical Context and Revival of the Deal :

Initial talks between India and Iran regarding Chabahar Port began in 2003 but stalled due to US sanctions. The 2015 easing of sanctions under the Iran nuclear deal revitalized discussions, leading to a tripartite agreement involving India, Iran, and Afghanistan during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Iran in 2016. This agreement underscored the shared interest in developing alternative trade routes.

Correct Answer :   7 Million

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The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), a digital infrastructure initiative launched in 2021, has witnessed remarkable growth, with transactions crossing 70 lakh in April this year (2024). Led by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), ONDC aims to democratize digital commerce and create a level playing field for businesses of all sizes. Let’s explore the key highlights and significance of ONDC through subheadings.

Facilitating Digital Commerce :

ONDC serves as a pioneering digital infrastructure that aims to democratize digital commerce in India. By providing a platform that lowers entry barriers and fosters competition, ONDC opens up new opportunities for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to participate in the digital economy.

Impressive Milestones :

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) announced that over 5 lakh sellers have been onboarded on the ONDC platform, with more than 70% of them being small or medium-sized sellers. Additionally, over 125 ecosystem stakeholders, including startups, unicorns, and businesses, have signed Letters of Intent (LoI) to join ONDC, reflecting the platform’s growing influence and appeal.

Role of Startups :

Startups play a pivotal role in driving innovation and fostering competition within the ONDC ecosystem. Joint Secretary of DPIIT, Sanjiv Singh, emphasized the significance of startups in enhancing consumer choice and driving momentum for the national initiative. More than 125 startups have committed to onboard the ONDC network, demonstrating their enthusiasm for leveraging the platform to innovate and expand their reach.

Addressing Market Challenges :

Creating and discovering markets pose significant challenges for startups, especially those that have been digitally excluded. ONDC addresses these challenges by lowering entry barriers to digital commerce and providing a level playing field for all e-commerce players. The platform empowers small-scale businesses and digitally excluded entities to participate in the digital economy on equal footing with larger counterparts.

ONDC Entity and Governance :

The ONDC entity, established as a not-for-profit company under Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013, manages and operates the ONDC Network. Responsible for building and maintaining the underlying infrastructure, the entity defines the rules of engagement and code of conduct for network participants through the ONDC Network Policy and the ONDC Network Participant Agreement.

Correct Answer :   May 17

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World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, observed annually on May 17, celebrates the transformative impact of telecommunication and information technology on global connectivity and development. As we commemorate this special day in 2024, it’s essential to reflect on its significance, theme, historical roots, and the pressing issues it addresses.

World Telecommunication Day 2024 and Information Society Day 2024 – Date :

Every year, World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is marked on May 17. In 2024, this significant observance falls on a Friday, providing an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to recognize the pivotal role of telecommunication and information technology in shaping our interconnected world.

Theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2024 :

The theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2024 is “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development.” This theme underscores the crucial role that innovative technologies play in addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and hunger. Digital innovation has the potential to advance progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, with estimates suggesting that digital technologies could contribute to achieving 70% of these targets. However, despite the promise of digital innovation, significant disparities in access, investment, and digital skills persist, hindering progress in many parts of the world.

History of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day :

The roots of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day trace back to the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. The ITU, established during the first Indian Telegraph Convention, has played a central role in standardizing and coordinating global telecommunication networks. In 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society proposed to the United Nations to designate May 17 as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. This date holds dual significance, commemorating both the establishment of the ITU and serving as a platform to address contemporary challenges and opportunities in the information society.

Significance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2024 :

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day holds immense significance in highlighting the achievements and challenges of the digital age. It provides a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions about the impact of telecommunication and information technology on sustainable development, digital inclusion, and global connectivity. The goal of the day is to promote digital innovation as a catalyst for positive change, fostering greater collaboration, investment, and policy initiatives to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable development worldwide.

Correct Answer :   Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd

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In anticipation of increased demand in the automotive sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest ?26,000 crore in its automotive business over the next three years. This significant investment will span from FY25 to FY27 and is aimed at developing new vehicles and enhancing production capacity.

Major Investments in Electric Vehicles :

A substantial portion of the investment, ?12,000 crore, is allocated to Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited (MEAL), the company’s electric vehicle unit. The funds will be used to create and market a world-class electric SUV portfolio equipped with advanced technologies. Anish Shah, Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, emphasized the importance of both ICE and electric vehicles for the company’s growth strategy.

Distribution of Investment Across Business Segments

The remaining investment will be distributed as follows:

Capacity Expansion Plans :

Mahindra & Mahindra plans to ramp up its production capacities significantly. By FY25, the company aims to increase its SUV capacity by 5,000 units and its electric vehicle capacity by 10,000 units. By the end of FY26, an additional 8,000 units of electric vehicle capacity are expected, bringing the overall SUV capacity to 72,000 units.

New Vehicle Introductions :

The company has an aggressive product launch schedule lined up, including:

Growth Projections :

Mahindra & Mahindra is targeting a growth rate in the mid- to high-teens for the current financial year. The company aims for up to 30% of its SUV portfolio to be electric by 2027, positioning itself as a significant player in the electric vehicle market.

Strategic Investments and Collaborations :

The fresh investments come alongside continued support from British International Investment (BII) and Temasek. BII has invested ?1,200 crore so far, with an additional ?725 crore pending. Temasek has invested ?300 crore and will invest another ?900 crore according to previously agreed timelines.

Recent Performance and Market Position :

Mahindra & Mahindra has enjoyed a strong performance over the past year, with auto sales surpassing 100,000 units for the first time in FY24. The company’s revenue market share in the SUV segment increased by 130 basis points to 20.4%, driven by an 18% growth in volumes.

Correct Answer :   Kapil Sibal

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Senior advocate Kapil Sibal has been elected as the president of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) in a recent election held on Thursday (16th May 2024) in New Delhi. This marks his fourth term serving as the president of the prestigious lawyers’ body, succeeding senior advocate Adish C. Aggarwala.

Kapil Sharma’s Previous Tenure :

Kapil Sibal previously held the position of SCBA president in 2001 and served two separate stints in the mid and late 1990s. With a wealth of experience and legal expertise, Sibal’s re-election signifies the confidence and trust placed in his leadership by the legal fraternity.

Succession from Adish C. Aggarwala :

Sibal will take over the reins from incumbent president Adish C. Aggarwala, continuing the legacy of leadership within the SCBA. The transition of power reflects the democratic process within the legal community and ensures continuity in the association’s functioning.

Runner-up and Other Office Bearers :

Senior advocate Pradeep Rai emerged as the runner-up in the SCBA elections, showcasing the competitive nature of the electoral process. Advocate Vikrant Yadav secured the position of SCBA secretary, further complementing the leadership team.

Election Results and Contestants :

In a closely contested election, Kapil Sibal secured a significant victory with 1,066 votes, defeating Pradeep Rai who garnered 689 votes. The election saw participation from several prominent legal figures, including Priya Hingorani, Tripurari Ray, and Neeraj Srivastava, highlighting the diversity of viewpoints within the legal fraternity.

Reactions to the Election :

Rajya Sabha member Jairam Ramesh hailed Sibal’s election as a significant win for liberal, secular, democratic, and progressive forces. The outcome of the election is seen as a reflection of broader ideological alignments within the legal community and its implications for future legal discourse and advocacy.