Correct Answer :   Murdu Fernando

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Justice Murdu Nirupa Bindushini Fernando was ceremonially sworn in as the Chief Justice of Sri Lanka on December 2, 2024, before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat. This landmark event marks a significant milestone in Sri Lankan judicial history as Justice Fernando becomes the second woman to hold the esteemed position of Chief Justice, following the trailblazing Justice Shirani Bandaranaike.

Historic Appointment :

48th Chief Justice of Sri Lanka :

* Second woman to hold the position, after Justice Shirani Bandaranaike.
* Appointed following the retirement of Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya.

Approval and Ceremony :

* Nomination approved by the Constitutional Council.
* Sworn in at the Presidential Secretariat in the presence of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
* Attended by dignitaries including Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President.

Educational Background

* Alumna of Princess of Wales College, Moratuwa.
* Obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of Colombo’s Faculty of Law.

Professional Journey

* Began her career in the Attorney General’s Department in 1985.
* Promoted to Deputy Solicitor General in 1997.
* Elevated to Additional Solicitor General in 2014.
* Appointed to the Supreme Court in March 2018.
* Served as Senior Additional Solicitor General and senior-most judge on the Supreme Court.

Significance :

* Justice Fernando’s career spans over three decades, showcasing her expertise and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
* Her appointment is a progressive step for gender representation in Sri Lanka’s judiciary.

Correct Answer :   Ladakh

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India is home to diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes. Among its unique regions, one Union Territory stands out for its resemblance to Tibet in culture, religion, and geography. This place is Ladakh, often called “Little Tibet.”

Indian States and Union Territory :

India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. States have their own governments, while Union Territories are governed by the central government. Each has unique cultures, languages, and traditions, reflecting India’s diversity.

Little Tibet in India

Ladakh, a beautiful union territory in northern India, is often called “Little Tibet.” This name reflects its strong cultural and geographical similarities with Tibet. Let us explore why Ladakh is given this special title.

Why is Ladakh Known as Little Tibet?

Ladakh is called “Little Tibet” because it shares deep cultural, religious, and historical ties with Tibet. Both regions practice Tibetan Buddhism, have similar cuisines like thukpa and momos, and share linguistic connections. Ladakh’s geography, with high mountains and cold deserts, also resembles Tibet, making the title fitting for this beautiful region.

Tibetan Buddhism in Ladakh :

Ladakh follows Tibetan Buddhism, just like Tibet. The monasteries, religious rituals, and traditions in Ladakh are very similar to those in Tibet. The influence of Tibetan spirituality is deeply rooted in the culture of Ladakh.

Correct Answer :   Florence Nightingale

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The title “Lady with the Lamp” is famously associated with Florence Nightingale, a British nurse and social reformer. She became a symbol of compassion, care, and dedication to nursing. This article explains why she is called the “Lady with the Lamp” and her important contributions.

Lady with the Lamp :

Florence Nightingale, born in 1820, is famously called the “Lady with the Lamp.” She was a pioneer in nursing and is remembered for her incredible contributions to healthcare and hospital reforms.

Why is Florence Nightingale Known as the Lady with the Lamp?

Florence Nightingale is known as the “Lady with the Lamp” because, during the Crimean War, she would often walk through the hospital wards at night, carrying a lamp to check on the soldiers. Her compassionate care and dedication to their well-being earned her this nickname, symbolizing her commitment to nursing and her tireless work to improve healthcare.

Florence Nightingale and Nursing :

Florence Nightingale became a symbol of care and compassion during the Crimean War. She organized a group of nurses and traveled to Crimea to help injured soldiers. Her work in these hospitals set high standards for modern nursing.

Florence Nightingale’s Writings :

Nightingale was not only a nurse but also a prolific writer. She wrote over 150 books, pamphlets, and reports on health and hospital care. In 1856, she shared her knowledge and findings with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, helping to bring attention to the need for healthcare reforms.

Other Accomplishments of Nightingale :

Nightingale is credited with designing one of the first pie charts to present her findings clearly. She also introduced helpful services like a kitchen for patients, a laundry, a classroom, and even a library in hospitals, enhancing patient care.

Her Lasting Legacy :

Florence Nightingale’s contributions did not go unnoticed. Queen Victoria honored her with a special engraved brooch called the “Nightingale Jewel” and a monetary award of $250,000 from the British government.

Correct Answer :   Kash Patel

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* Donald Trump, the US President-elect, has nominated Kash Patel, an Indian-American lawyer and investigator, as the next FBI director.

* Known for his dedication to exposing corruption and safeguarding justice, Patel is the second Indian-American to be nominated to Trump's cabinet, after Jay Bhattacharya, who was chosen to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

* This reflects the growing representation of Indian-Americans in high-profile US government roles.

Correct Answer :   Maharashtra

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In FY25, Maharashtra led the allocation for women-centric welfare schemes, dedicating $5.4 billion, which is 1.1% of its GDP.

These schemes, which include cash transfers and empowerment programs, have become significant political tools.

Maharashtra's schemes, such as the "Ladki Bahin Yojana," have played a crucial role in attracting women voters and contributing to the success of the BJP-led coalition.

Maharashtra's focus on women-centric welfare is reflected in its substantial financial commitment to these initiatives, setting it apart from other states in terms of allocation.

Correct Answer :   December 2

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* The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed annually on December 2.

* This day serves as a global call to action to combat modern slavery, including human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation.

* It marks the adoption of the Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of Prostitution on December 2, 1949, by the United Nations.

* The observance aims to promote the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals while raising awareness about the ongoing issue of modern slavery.

Correct Answer :   Telangana

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* Telangana has announced the implementation of the Rythu Bharosa scheme, offering farmers an annual aid of ?15,000 per acre, exceeding the ?10,000 provided under the earlier Rythu Bandhu scheme.

* Alongside this, the state government has waived crop loans amounting to ?20,616 crore, benefiting 25.35 lakh farmers.

* These initiatives, coupled with free electricity, fertiliser subsidies, and minimum support price (MSP) policies, underscore Telangana's commitment to supporting agricultural development and farmer welfare.

Correct Answer :   Singapore

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Singapore emerged as the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to India in the July-September 2024 quarter, contributing 50% of the total USD 13.6 billion inflows, which marked a 43% increase compared to the previous year.

Over the years, Singapore has played a vital role in India’s economic growth, with its cumulative FDI from April 2000 to March 2024 reaching approximately USD 159.94 billion.

This strong partnership highlights Singapore's importance as India's key economic partner.

Correct Answer :   Riyadh

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The 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is being held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13, 2024.

This marks the first time a West Asian nation is hosting the event, coinciding with the UNCCD’s 30th anniversary.

Representatives from 197 nations, including India, are participating to address global desertification and land degradation under the theme "Our Land. Our Future."

Correct Answer :   December 1

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World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1, a date chosen since its inception in 1988.

The day serves to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, reflect on the progress made, and highlight the ongoing challenges in combating the epidemic.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2024, “Take the rights path: My health, my right!” emphasizes the importance of human rights in addressing HIV/AIDS.

It focuses on ensuring equitable access to healthcare services, reducing stigma, and promoting inclusivity and global cooperation in the fight against HIV/AIDS.