Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2025

Correct Answer :   Colorado

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Colorado earned the nickname "The Centennial State" due to its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely a century after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

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

Colorado holds the distinction of being known as “The Centennial State” among the United States. This nickname stems from its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Symbolizing both historical significance and patriotic pride, the title highlights Colorado’s role in commemorating the nation’s centennial while underscoring its rich heritage and contributions to American history.

The Origin of the Nickname “The Centennial State” :

Colorado earned the moniker “The Centennial State” due to its admission into the Union in the year 1876. This year held special significance as it marked the centennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal event in American history. The timing of Colorado’s statehood celebration perfectly aligned with the nation’s centennial celebrations, hence the fitting nickname.

Why is Colorado is Known as “The Centennial State”?

Colorado earned the nickname “The Centennial State” due to its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely a century after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historical milestone marked Colorado’s official entry as the 38th state of the United States, aligning perfectly with the nation’s centennial celebrations. The nickname reflects the state’s pivotal role in commemorating this significant event in American history.

The Symbolism of the Nickname “The Centennial State” :

“The Centennial State” serves as a symbolic reminder of Colorado’s historical roots and its enduring commitment to the ideals of freedom, independence, and progress. It pays homage to the state’s role in commemorating the nation’s centennial while also highlighting its rich heritage and contributions to American society.

Beyond the Nickname :

While “The Centennial State” captures Colorado’s historical significance, another well-known epithet, “Colorful Colorado,” captures the essence of its natural beauty and scenic landscapes. From majestic mountains to winding rivers and sprawling plains, Colorado’s diverse terrain has earned it a reputation as one of the most visually stunning states in the nation.

Correct Answer :   12th May

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The International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) is observed annually on 12 May to raise awareness about the critical importance of protecting plant health. This global initiative aims to prevent hunger, reduce poverty, safeguard biodiversity, and promote economic development worldwide. This year, the International Day of Plant Health falls on Sunday, 12 May 2024, coinciding with Mother’s Day, an event that recognizes the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers.

Theme: ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology’ :

The theme for the International Day of Plant Health 2024 is ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology.’ This theme emphasizes the need for international collaboration, standards, and the integration of digital technologies to promote plant health and ensure safe trade practices.

History and Significance :

The United Nations established the International Day of Plant Health to draw public attention to the necessity of safeguarding plant health. The resolution was unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly in March 2022 and co-sponsored by several countries, including Bolivia, Finland, Pakistan, the Philippines, Tanzania, and Zambia.

The resolution highlights the crucial role of healthy plants in sustainable agricultural development, supporting a growing global population by 2050. It also acknowledges the functions of plants in regulating ecosystems, providing food security and nutrition, and promoting biodiversity.

A Call to Action :

The International Day of Plant Health 2024 calls on everyone to raise awareness and take action to keep our plants healthy, ensuring food safety and sustainable trade practices. The FAO is marking the occasion by hosting an event on 13 May 2024 in Rome, Italy, focusing on sustainable agriculture practices and promoting plant health.

As we celebrate this important day, let us recognize the vital role of plant health in our lives and commit to collective efforts to protect our plants, safeguard our food sources, and preserve the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

Plants: Vital for Life :

Plants play a crucial role in our lives, providing up to 80 percent of the food we consume and a staggering 98 percent of the oxygen we breathe. Yet, these essential life-givers are severely threatened by pests and diseases, making plant health a pressing concern.

The Devastating Impact of Plant Pests and Diseases :

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), up to 40 percent of food crops are destroyed by plant pests and diseases annually. This devastation not only has a detrimental impact on agriculture but also exacerbates global hunger, threatens rural livelihoods, and costs the global economy a staggering $220 billion every year.

Invasive Insects: A Looming Threat :

Invasive insects pose an additional threat to plant health and biodiversity. These unwanted visitors can spread diseases, further compounding the challenges faced by farmers and food producers worldwide.

Correct Answer :   Surat

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Surat earned the title "City of Bridges" due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India.

Which Indian City is Known as “City of Bridges”?

The Indian city known as the “City of Bridges” is Surat, located in the state of Gujarat. Surat boasts an impressive number of bridges, surpassing any other city in India. With over 120 bridges spanning rivers and connecting various parts of the city, Surat’s infrastructure facilitates smooth transportation for its residents. This abundance of bridges has earned Surat its distinctive title, highlighting its significance as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Why is Surat Known as the “City of Bridges”?

Surat earned the title “City of Bridges” due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India. Situated along the banks of the Tapi River and close to other water bodies, Surat’s strategic location necessitated the construction of numerous bridges for seamless connectivity. These bridges play a vital role in facilitating smooth transportation within the city, earning Surat its reputation as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Infrastructure Development of Surat :

In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion within the city, there has been an increased emphasis on constructing flyovers. These flyovers are strategically built to enhance traffic management, allowing for seamless movement without the need for frequent halts. From bridges spanning rivers to those crossing railway lines, Surat’s infrastructure is a testament to modern urban planning.

City of Bridges is also Known as Diamond City :

Surat, often referred to as the “Diamond City,” is recognized for its significance in the world of silk textiles. Additionally, approximately 90% of the world’s diamond cutting and polishing activities take place here. The city’s name holds meaning in both Hindi and Gujarati, translating to “face,” reflecting its multifaceted identity. Apart from being the City of Bridges, Surat is also known as the Textile City and the Diamond City.

Correct Answer :   11 May 2024

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Surjit Patar, 79, a renowned Punjabi poet who received the Padma Shri, passed away at his home near Barewal Colony on Saturday (11th May 2024) morning.

Tributes Pour In :

The news of Patar’s demise has been met with an outpouring of grief and condolences from political leaders and literary figures alike. Bhagwant Mann, the Chief Minister of Punjab, and Kultar Singh Sandhwan, the Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, expressed their deep sorrow and acknowledged Patar’s significant contribution to the promotion and preservation of the Punjabi language globally.

A Celebrated Literary Journey :

Surjit Patar’s literary journey was marked by numerous accolades and honours, including the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award for his exceptional work in regional language writing. His achievements were recognized at the highest level when he was conferred the Padma Shri in 2012, a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to Punjabi literature.

Born in Patar Kalan village in Jalandhar, Patar retired as a professor of Punjabi from the Punjab Agricultural University, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of countless students and literary enthusiasts.

A ‘Philosopher of the Heart’ :

Former Union Minister of Law and Justice, Ashwani Kumar, paid a heartfelt tribute to Patar, describing him as a “philosopher of the heart” whose writings kept alive the deepest yearnings and realities of both private and social life. Kumar commended Patar’s ability to seamlessly blend the poet and his poetry, ensuring that the language of the heart resonated through his work.

Preserving the Legacy :

Patar’s literary legacy extends beyond the confines of Punjab, as his works have been celebrated and studied globally. His role as the president of the Punjab Arts Council further solidified his commitment to the preservation and promotion of Punjabi culture and art.

As the literary world mourns the loss of this legendary figure, Surjit Patar’s contributions to Punjabi literature will continue to inspire generations of writers and poets, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Punjabi language and culture remains vibrant and alive.

Correct Answer :   Wipro

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Wipro, a leading IT major, has announced the appointment of Vinay Firake as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its Asia Pacific, India, Middle East, and Africa (APMEA) strategic market unit (SMU), effective immediately. Firake will report directly to Srini Pallia, Wipro’s CEO and Managing Director, and will also join the company’s executive board.

Succeeding Anis Chenchah :

Firake’s appointment comes as Anis Chenchah, the previous CEO of the APMEA SMU, steps down from the role to explore opportunities outside the organization.

About Vinay Firake :

Vinay Firake brings over 26 years of experience at Wipro, having served in various leadership roles across the globe. He will be based in Dubai for his new role.

Most recently, Firake served as the Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Wipro-Nordics Business Unit in Stockholm, where he oversaw operations across industries and services. Prior to that, he led the Manufacturing & Automotive Business Unit in Europe and held various roles spanning Europe and North America.

Recent Leadership Appointments at Wipro :

Wipro has undergone several key leadership changes in recent months:

* On April 6, 2024, the company appointed Srini Pallia as the CEO and Managing Director, succeeding Thierry Delaporte.

* In April 2024, Wipro named Malay Joshi as the CEO of Americas 1, the company’s largest and fastest-growing market, previously led by Srini Pallia.

Correct Answer :   12th May 2024

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Richard Slayman, a 62-year-old man who made history as the first recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney, has died two months after the groundbreaking transplant. Massachusetts General Hospital, which performed the transplant, confirmed his death Sunday (12th May 2024), stating that they had no reason to believe it was due to the surgery.

Slayman had been battling end-stage kidney disease and underwent the successful, pioneering surgery two months ago. The transplanted pig kidney functioned as intended, a major milestone for xenotransplantation, which refers to procedures involving the transplantation of animal cells, tissues, or organs for human treatment.

After the transplant, Slayman no longer required dialysis, though he still managed pre-existing conditions like Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The kidneys were expected to function for a minimum of two years. No cause of death has been released yet.

“We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant,” Massachusetts General Hospital said in a statement. “Mr. Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope to countless transplant patients worldwide.”

Before Slayman, genetically modified pig organs were transplanted only into deceased or brain-dead patients, with the organs functioning outside the body. Slayman’s case was the first successful instance of a fully functioning pig kidney working inside a living human recipient.

In a statement, Slayman’s family thanked the hospital and surgeons.

“Their enormous efforts leading the xenotransplant gave our family seven more weeks with Rick, and our memories made during that time will remain in our minds and hearts,” it said.

Family members also added that Slayman had undergone the surgery to provide hope to people who need transplants to survive, and that his legacy would inspire “patients, researchers, and health care professionals everywhere”.

Source : The Print

Correct Answer :   12th May

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Every year on 12 May, the world observes International Nurses Day to honor the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. This day serves as a tribute to the selfless dedication and vital contributions of nurses worldwide.

The International Council of Nurses initiated the first International Nurses Day celebration on 12 May 1974, aiming to draw attention to the crucial role nurses play in modern healthcare systems.

Florence Nightingale: The Lady with the Lamp

Florence Nightingale, born on 12 May 1820 in Florence, Italy, was a British nurse and social reformer. Her unwavering compassion and tireless efforts during the Crimean War (1853-56) earned her the legendary title of “Lady with the Lamp.”

Nightingale took charge of the camp in Turkey (now Turkiye), providing personal care to wounded British and Allied soldiers. Her dedication inspired the establishment of the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London in 1860, marking a significant milestone in the professionalization of nursing.

Theme for 2024: ‘Our Nurses Our Future, The Economic Power of Care’ :

Each year, the International Council of Nurses selects a theme to highlight a specific aspect of nursing. The theme for 2024 is ‘Our Nurses Our Future, The Economic Power of Care.’

This theme underscores the invaluable contribution of nurses to global economic growth. According to a report commissioned by the International Council Of Nurses, poor health costs the global economy a staggering 15% of the Gross Domestic Product. By promoting better health, nurses can play a pivotal role in minimizing this economic loss, but adequate investment in the nursing profession is essential.

Celebrating National Nurses Week :

In countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States, International Nurses Day is part of a weeklong celebration known as National Nurses Week, culminating on 12 May. This extended observance aims to further acknowledge and appreciate the tireless efforts of nurses in delivering exceptional healthcare services.

A Tribute to the Backbone of Healthcare :

Despite being the backbone of the healthcare sector, nurses’ importance is often undervalued and underappreciated by society. International Nurses Day serves as a platform to change this perception and highlight the indispensable role nurses play in ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.

As we celebrate International Nurses Day, let us express our gratitude to these selfless professionals who dedicate their lives to caring for others, often at personal sacrifice. Their unwavering commitment and compassion inspire us all, and their contributions to global health and economic prosperity deserve our utmost respect and recognition.

Correct Answer :   Second Sunday of May

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In many countries, including India, Mother's Day falls on the Second Sunday of May every year and this year (2024) the celebration will fall on May 12, 2024.

Mother’s Day 2024 – History :

The roots of Mother’s Day trace back to ancient times, where cultures like the Greeks and Romans held festivals honoring mother goddesses, such as Rhea and Cybele, symbolizing fertility and motherhood. In Christian traditions, “Mothering Sunday” was observed in the 16th century England, where people returned to their main church and presented small gifts to their mothers.

In the United States, the modern Mother’s Day movement was propelled by Julia Ward Howe, who advocated for peace and disarmament among women in the 19th century. However, it was Anna Jarvis who campaigned for a national holiday to honor mothers after her own mother’s death in 1905. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in the U.S.

Significance of Mother’s Day :

Mother’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the invaluable role of mothers and motherhood. It’s a day to express love, appreciation, and recognition for the selfless devotion and unconditional love that mothers provide throughout their lives. The significance of Mother’s Day lies in honoring and appreciating the sacrifices and unwavering support of mothers, celebrating the essential role of motherhood, and recognizing the profound impact mothers have on their children’s lives and society as a whole.

Correct Answer :   11th May

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National Technology Day is celebrated annually in India on 11 May. This day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of innovators, scientists, and engineers, and to promoting scientific and technological innovation in the country.

The day was first established in 1998 to commemorate the successful nuclear test at Pokhran. This test was a significant milestone in India’s technological advancement, and it paved the way for the country to acquire a leading position in the field of nuclear weapons technology.

National Technology Day 2024 Date :

This year, National Technology Day will be celebrated in India on Saturday, 11 May 2024.

National Technology Day 2024 Theme :

The theme of National Technology Day 2024 has not been announced yet. However, like every year, the day will be recognized to embrace the advancements of India in the field of science and technology.

History of National Technology Day :

The history of National Technology Day in India dates back to 1998, when the Indian Army conducted five nuclear bomb tests (Pokhran- II) in Rajasthan under the surveillance of the then Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Pokhran – II was led by the Missile Man of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. India was entitled as the sixth nuclear country after the huge success of the Pokhran Test.

To celebrate the accomplishment of India in the field of nuclear science, Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared 11 May as National Technology Day. The first National Technology Day was observed on 11 May 1999. The Pokhran nuclear tests were a significant milestone in India’s efforts to achieve technological advancement and pave the way for future developments in the field.

Significance of National Technology Day: Why is it Celebrated?

National Technology Day is celebrated in India every year on 11 May. This day is dedicated to recognizing the country’s technological achievements and honoring the contributions of professionals working in the field. The National Technology Day holds huge significance in India as it celebrates the country’s achievements in science and technology. It also provides an opportunity to promote scientific education and foster a strong interest in technology among all sections of society. This day is undoubtedly a catalyst for growth and a testament to India’s prowess in technological innovation.

The National Technology Day celebrations are organized by a number of organizations, including the Government of India, National Council for Science & Technology Communication, the Department of Science & Technology, Various NGOs, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and the Science Centres.

Correct Answer :   IIT Bhubaneswar

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar have initiated a partnership aimed at advancing research in electronics warfare, AI-driven surveillance, power systems, and radar systems. DRDO has sanctioned nine projects from the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) Cluster to IIT Bhubaneswar, with an additional seven projects awaiting approval, backed by ?18 crore in funding.

Collaboration Announcement :

Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating that it signifies a shift from knowledge generation to practical application, entrepreneurship, and producing skilled professionals. He sees this partnership as a pathway to excellence in defence research and technology.

Research Focus :

Head of the School of Electrical Sciences at IIT, Prof S.R. Samantaray, emphasized that the collaboration is aligned with the evolving needs of defence applications, contributing to the vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India). He believes this collaboration will bolster defence research programs, fostering sustainability and contributing to the national ecosystem.

Common Cause :

Director General of the ECS Cluster at DRDO, Dr. Binay K. Das, expressed the intent behind the collaboration, emphasizing its goal to address the future needs of the nation in defence technology. The partnership aims to work collectively towards advancing defence capabilities and strengthening India’s position in the field of defence research and development.