Correct Answer :   $28

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India’s pharmaceutical exports witnessed robust growth in the fiscal year 2023-24, reaching $28 billion, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous fiscal year. Despite a 3% dip in total exports, the pharmaceutical sector demonstrated resilience and significant expansion.

Key Highlights

Correct Answer :   Baghpat

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India, with its 28 states and 8 union territories, boasts diverse regions, each with its unique cultural and geographical characteristics. Among these, certain districts stand out for their distinctive identities, contributing to the country’s rich tapestry of diversity. One such district in India is Baghpat, known as the “Land of Tigers.” Let’s delve into the features and significance of this district, nestled in the heart of the nation.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is known as “Land of Tigers”?

Baghpat district derives its nickname, the “Land of Tigers,” from its historical roots and geographical attributes. Formerly known as “Vyagprastha,” meaning the land of tigers, the district has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The name reflects the region’s once abundant tiger population, symbolizing its untamed wilderness and natural beauty.

Geographical Significance of Baghpat, the Land of Tigers :

Nestled along the banks of the Yamuna River, Baghpat district boasts picturesque landscapes and fertile plains. The district’s proximity to the river not only enriches its agricultural prowess but also adds to its scenic charm. The Yamuna River serves as a lifeline for the region, shaping its ecosystem and sustaining its agrarian economy.

Land of Tigers – Economic Significance :

Baghpat district is predominantly agrarian, with agriculture serving as the backbone of its economy. The fertile soil and favorable climate facilitate the cultivation of various crops, including sugarcane, wheat, and rice. Additionally, the district is renowned for its production of jaggery and sugar, contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural output.

Cultural Tapestry of Baghpat :

Baghpat district is a melting pot of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. Its vibrant cultural milieu is characterized by festivals, fairs, and rituals that reflect the harmonious coexistence of different communities. The district’s rich cultural heritage adds to its allure, attracting visitors from far and wide to experience its cultural extravaganza.

Land of Tigers – Economic Activities and Livelihoods :

The primary occupations in Baghpat district revolve around agriculture and allied activities. Farmers engage in cultivation, dairy farming, and animal husbandry to sustain their livelihoods. Additionally, the district’s strategic location near Delhi has led to the emergence of small-scale industries and commercial enterprises, further diversifying its economic landscape.

Correct Answer :   Saharanpur

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The cultivation of honey thrives as a commercial venture, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, where beekeeping flourishes alongside the production of this golden elixir. Let’s know which district of Uttar Pradesh is known as “City of Honey.”

Uttar Pradesh’s Contribution to Honey Production :

Uttar Pradesh emerges as a prominent player in honey production, boasting extensive beekeeping activities across various districts. The state’s conducive environment and agricultural practices foster a thriving ecosystem for beekeeping, resulting in substantial honey yields.

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

Among the districts of Uttar Pradesh, Saharanpur stands out as a notable hub for honey production. Revered as the “City of Honey,” Saharanpur epitomizes the state’s prowess in beekeeping and honey cultivation. Its abundant output of high-quality honey distinguishes it as a leading contributor to the honey industry.

Why is Saharanpur known as “City of Honey”?

Saharanpur earns its moniker due to its distinction as the epicenter of honey production in Uttar Pradesh. The district’s remarkable output of honey, coupled with its rich beekeeping heritage, solidifies its reputation as a premier honey-producing region.

Saharanpur’s Honey Production :

Saharanpur boasts an impressive annual honey production, ranging from approximately 8,000 to 10,000 quintals. This substantial yield underscores the district’s pivotal role in honey cultivation, with thousands of local residents actively engaged in beekeeping and honey-related enterprises.

Saharanpur’s Global Impact :

The honey produced in Saharanpur finds resonance not only domestically but also on the global stage. With Uttar Pradesh, particularly Saharanpur, emerging as a leading exporter of honey, the district contributes significantly to India’s international honey trade, showcasing the country’s prowess in honey production..

Correct Answer :   Axis Bank

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Axis Bank’s board has approved the re-appointment of Amitabh Chaudhry as Managing Director & CEO for another 3 years, effective January 2025, subject to RBI approval. Alongside Chaudhry, Independent Directors Meena Ganesh and Gopalaraman Padmanabhan have also been re-appointed for four years each.

Q4 Performance Highlights :

Axis Bank exceeded Q4 profit expectations, driven by robust loan expansion and increased revenue from lending activities. The bank reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 7,599 crore and a standalone net profit of Rs 7,130 crore for the January-March period. Despite strong performance, concerns regarding deposit growth for the upcoming fiscal year were voiced.

Financial Growth :

The bank witnessed a 17% sequential increase in net profit, reaching Rs 6,071 crore compared to the preceding quarter of FY24. For the entire FY24, net profit surged to Rs 24,861.43 crore from Rs 9,579.68 crore. The positive financial trajectory underscores Axis Bank’s resilience and strategic direction under Chaudhry’s leadership.

Background and Leadership Continuity :

Amitabh Chaudhry, who assumed the role of MD & CEO in January 2019, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at HDFC Life. His re-appointment signifies continuity and stability in Axis Bank’s leadership, bolstering investor confidence amid evolving market dynamics.

Correct Answer :   April 25

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Every year on April 25, the world celebrates International Delegate’s Day, recognizing the crucial role of delegates who represent their countries at the United Nations (UN). Without these dedicated individuals, the UN would not exist. This day honours the delegates’ commitment to the spirit of multilateralism and their efforts to work together under the UN to solve global problems.

History and Significance

The history of International Delegate’s Day dates back to April 25, 1945, when delegates from 50 countries gathered in San Francisco with the aim of establishing an organization that would promote peace and impose rules in the post-World War II era. Over 850 delegates attended this conference, which lasted for two months.

Determined to create an organization that would preserve peace and build a better world, representatives from diverse religions, continents, and over 80% of the world’s population came together. On June 26, 1945, two months after the first meeting, the 50 countries signed the United Nations Charter, laying the foundation for the establishment of the United Nations Organization.

The Role of Delegates

Delegates at the United Nations are chosen by their respective governments to represent their countries’ interests. They participate in discussions, debates, and decision-making processes at the UN General Assembly and other international forums.

While delegates have the authority to vote on behalf of their nations, their votes are only counted when a head of state or government is present. This ensures that the delegates act in accordance with their country’s best interests and the directives of their governments.

Promoting Multilateralism

International Delegate’s Day celebrates the delegates’ dedication to the spirit of multilateralism, which is at the heart of the UN’s mission. By exchanging views and ideas with delegates from different nations, they contribute to finding collective solutions to global challenges.

Delegates play a vital role in facilitating dialogue, fostering understanding, and building consensus among member states. Their tireless efforts in promoting international cooperation and collaboration are essential for achieving the UN’s goals of maintaining peace, upholding human rights, and promoting sustainable development.

Recognizing Contributions

On April 2, 2019, the United Nations General Assembly designated April 25 as International Delegate’s Day to commemorate the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco. This annual observance serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by delegates in shaping the UN’s agenda and ensuring its continued relevance in the ever-changing global landscape.

International Delegate’s Day provides an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the dedication, hard work, and sacrifices made by delegates in representing their nations on the global stage. It also encourages the next generation to consider careers in international diplomacy and contribute to the ongoing efforts for a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Correct Answer :   April 25

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Every year on April 25, World Malaria Day is observed to raise awareness about the prevention, treatment, and control of malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by mosquito bites. Malaria is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, but it is preventable with proper precautions and measures. This annual observance serves as a reminder of the global efforts needed to eradicate this disease and ensure a healthier world.

Date and History :

World Malaria Day is celebrated annually on April 25. The origins of this day can be traced back to 2001 when African governments started observing Africa Malaria Day. In 2008, during the 60th session of the World Health Assembly, sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO), the decision was made to change the name to World Malaria Day, recognizing the need for global awareness and action against malaria.

Significance and Theme :

The theme for World Malaria Day 2024, “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” aligns with the World Health Day theme, “My Health, My Right.” This theme emphasizes the urgent need to address the inequalities that persist in access to malaria prevention, detection, and treatment services.

As stated by Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, “On this World Malaria Day 2024, we unite under the theme – Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world. This theme underscores the urgent need to address the stark inequities that persist in access to malaria prevention, detection, and treatment services.”

Purpose and Objectives :

World Malaria Day serves as a platform for international partners, companies, foundations, and individuals to showcase their efforts in eradicating malaria and contributing to better healthcare structures. It encourages people from all walks of life to come together and take action against the spread of this preventable disease.

The main objectives of World Malaria Day include :

Correct Answer :   IIT Jodhpur

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C-DOT, the premier Telecom R&D Centre of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India and Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur (IIT-J) signed an agreement for “Automated Service Management in 5G and Beyond Networks Using AI”.

The agreement is signed under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) of the DoT, which is designed for providing funding support to domestic companies and institutions involved in technology design, development, commercialization of telecommunication products and solutions to enable affordable broadband and mobile services in rural and remote areas.

The primary objective is to develop AI frameworks for automated network management, fault detection, and diagnostic techniques by utilizing continuous information generated within the network like 5G. The service will  establish a real time 5G and Beyond testbed (in compliance with O-RAN) for the demonstration of the developed automated network management and slicing techniques in conjunction with specific application use-cases such as smart metering, remotely operated vehicles, etc.

The agreement signing ceremony was attended by Dr Pankaj Kumar Dalela, Director, C-DOT and Dr Sai Kiran, MPR, Assistant Professor, Dept of Electrical Engineering, IIT Jodhpur.

Dr Sai Kiran, MPR, Associate Professor, IIT – Jodhpur stated that “we are thrilled to announce the R&D grant received from the DoT, which will fuel advanced research and development initiatives aimed at revolutionizing network management and improving Quality of Service (QoS) in 5G and 6G telecom networks. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies, our team will spearhead the creation of automated network management solutions that ensure low-latency and high-reliability performance, enabling the growth of new 5G and 6G application verticals such as remotely operated vehicles, smart cities, etc.”

C-DOT and IIT-Jodhpur reiterated that the successful completion of this project shall enable new use-cases in the areas of transportation systems, smart cities, and allow India in better contribution towards future 6G telecom standards..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Indian Bank

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Tata Power Solar Systems Limited (TPSSL), a prominent solar company in India and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), has announced a strategic collaboration with Indian Bank, a leading public sector bank in India. The partnership aims to boost the adoption of solar rooftop systems among residential consumers by providing financing solutions under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana scheme.

Under this collaboration, residential consumers can avail loans up to Rs. 2 lakh at an annual interest rate of 7%, in compliance with government regulations. The financing solutions aim to facilitate installations up to 3 KW under the scheme, with a nominal margin money requirement of 10% and collateral-free financing, making it easier for homeowners to embark on their solar journey. Additionally, repayment tenures extend up to 10 years, offering flexibility and convenience.

For installations ranging from 3 to 10 KW, TPSSL and Indian Bank offer tailored financing solutions with loans up to Rs. 6 lakh, a margin money requirement of 20%, and competitive interest rates ranging from 8.4% to 10.8% per annum.

Mr. Deepesh Nanda, CEO & Managing Director of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited, emphasized the commitment of Tata Power to promote renewable energy solutions and praised the collaboration for offering tailored financing solutions aligned with government initiatives like the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.

Shri Vikas Kumar, Chief General Manager of Retail Assets & MSME at Indian Bank, expressed the bank’s commitment to advancing the goals of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana through the partnership. He highlighted the initiative’s aim to promote awareness, growth, and social upliftment in the energy sector.

Aligned with the government’s commitment to champion residential solar, the collaboration between TPSSL and Indian Bank aims to make solar solutions more accessible and affordable for a broader spectrum of stakeholders, thereby contributing to the widespread adoption of solar energy.

With a solar rooftop portfolio of over 2 GW, TPSSL stands at the forefront of the renewable energy landscape in India, providing comprehensive solutions across various sectors and showcasing a commitment to diverse energy needs. The company’s strong commitment to customer satisfaction and its extensive network of channel partners further solidify its position as a trusted leader in the renewable energy sector..

Source : Solar Quarter

Correct Answer :   Indonesia

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Indonesia’s electoral commission has formally declared Prabowo Subianto president-elect in a ceremony, after the country’s highest court rejected challenges to his win by rival candidates.

Prabowo, 72, a former general dogged by allegations of human rights abuses, won a landslide victory in February’s elections, but his two opponents claimed that the vote had been undermined by state interference and unfair rule changes.

“The race has finished … the tough contest, with sometimes heated debates, is over,” Prabowo said during Wednesday’s ceremony, days after the legal challenges were rejected. “And now our people demand that political leaders must work together and collaborate for the people’s welfare and to eliminate poverty and corruption in Indonesia,” he said.

Prabowo won 58.6% of the vote in February’s election, but is a controversial figure. A former son-in-law of Suharto and a special commander under his 32-year regime, he has been accused of involvement in past rights abuses, including enforced disappearances of student activists and torture during the Suharto era. Prabowo was discharged from the military over the allegations and banned from entering the US for two decades.

Prabowo admitted in a 2014 interview with Al Jazeera that he had been involved in kidnappings, but said he was under orders and that his actions were legal.

Over recent years, he has sought to soften his public image, rebranding himself as a cuddly grandpa-like figure, and his campaign was boosted by his partnership with vice-presidential candidate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, son of the popular outgoing president Joko Widodo, who is known as Jokowi.

Jokowi has been accused of interfering in the election in order to protect his legacy, which he denies.

Prabowo’s rivals – former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan and former Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo – both filed cases challenging Prabowo’s win.

Separately, they alleged that state interference – such as the distribution of social aid handouts in key battleground areas – had unfairly benefited the campaign of Prabowo.

They also complained that it was not fair that Jokowi’s son Gibran, 37, had been allowed to run as a vice-presidential candidate. His candidacy was possible only after a court, headed by Jokowi’s brother-in-law, created a controversial exception allowing candidates under the required age of 40 to seek the presidency or vice-presidency provided they have previously held elected regional office – a criteria Gibran met.

The constitutional court rejected their arguments on Monday. Both Anies and Ganjar said they will respect its decision. Prabowo will take office in October..

Source : The Guardian

Correct Answer :   NASA

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NASA recently launched a groundbreaking space mission from New Zealand, deploying the Advanced Composite Solar Sail System spacecraft aboard Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket. This innovative spacecraft utilizes solar energy for propulsion, marking a significant leap in space exploration technology.

Mission Overview :

The spacecraft, equipped with a solar sail, was launched from New Zealand at 3:30 am IST and is set to orbit 1,000 kilometers above Earth. Upon deployment, the sail will measure approximately 80 square meters, harnessing sunlight to navigate through space.

Key Objectives :

The primary objective of the mission is to demonstrate the effectiveness of solar sail propulsion, paving the way for future missions with reduced reliance on heavy propulsion systems. Through a series of pointing maneuvers, the mission aims to showcase the orbit-raising and lowering capabilities solely using the pressure of sunlight on the sail.

Significance of Solar Sail Technology :

The success of this mission holds immense importance as it signifies a shift towards more cost-effective and sustainable space exploration. By harnessing the abundant energy of the sun for propulsion, future missions can utilize larger sails instead of relying on traditional fuel tanks, enabling longer-duration missions at a lower cost.

Insight from NASA’s Lead Systems Engineer :

Alan Rhodes, the lead systems engineer at NASA’s Ames Research Center, emphasized the significance of solar sail technology, stating that it provides a limitless source of propulsion. By capitalizing on the sun’s energy, future missions can maximize efficiency and minimize the need for heavy fuel payloads, revolutionizing the future of space exploration.