Correct Answer :   2 only

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Punjab Government has set a target of five lakh acres to be sown under direct seeded rice (DSR) method of paddy cultivation this kharif season.

About Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) method :

* DSR, also called the ‘broadcasting seed technique’, is a water-saving method of sowing paddy.

* Seeds are directly drilled into the fields in this method.

* This saves groundwater, as opposed to the traditional water-intensive method, under which rice seedlings are transplanted from a nursery to waterlogged fields.
* With DSR technique, farmers must sow paddy only after pre-sowing (rauni) irrigation and not in dry fields. Further, the field should be laser levelled.


Advantages :

* No significant reduction of yield under optimal conditions;

* Savings on irrigation water by 12-35% under efficient water management practices;

* Reduces labor and drudgery by eliminating seedling uprooting and transplanting;

* Reduces cultivation time, energy, and cost;

* No plant stress from transplanting;

* Faster maturation of crops;

* Lower GHG emissions;

* Mechanized DSR provides employment opportunities;

* Increases total income by reducing the cost of cultivation;


Current Constraints :

* Higher seed rates;

* Seeds exposed to birds and pests;

* Weed management;

* Higher risk of lodging;

* Risk of poor or non-uniform crop establishment;

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   IICA and RRU

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A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) here 9th June 2023.

* The MoU intends to synergise the professional capabilities of IICA and RRU towards capacity building, education, research and consulting in the domain of Internal Security, Financial Crimes, Law Enforcement, Corporate Frauds and other subject matters common to their mandate and objectives.

* The MoU also provides for exchange of knowledge and resources between IICA and RRU for conducting research, training and consultancy.

* Shri Praveen Kumar, Director General and CEO of IICA in his virtual address stated, “Corporate frauds constitute one of the most serious economic offences as enormous public money is involved thereunder which abysmally impacts the economic health of the nation. IICA in collaboration with RRU look forward to safeguarding economic security of the country through training and upskilling the officers of relevant stakeholders from banks, financial institutions, investigating agencies and other professionals in the financial landscape.”

* Prof (Dr) Bimal Patel, Vice-Chancellor of RRU in his address said, “Economic and Financial Security is a crucial facet of National Security and Economic Security of a country forms the very backbone for its good governance. It becomes imperative that the stakeholders in the financial and corporate system as well as personnel from law enforcement agencies must be adequately equipped for early detection and prevention of financial crimes. This collaboration between the two institutions would be a significant step towards strengthening of the existing financial system of the nation.”

* The MoU was signed by Prof (Dr) Naveen Sirohi from IICA who also shared the purpose statement of the collaboration. Dr Dimpal T Raval, Director School of National Security and Law from RRU proposed vote of thanks along with articulating action plan.  


ABOUT IICA :

IICA is an institution established by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India as an autonomous body to act as a think-tank and a centre of excellence to support the growth of the corporate sector in India through an integrated and multi-disciplinary approach. RRU is an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is a pioneering national security and police University of India..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   V Anantharaman

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Credit bureau TransUnion CIBIL has appointed banker V Anantharaman as non-executive chairman.

Anantharaman has worked in the banking industry for over three decades having led corporate and investment banking teams in leading international firms including Standard Chartered Bank, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank and Bank of America.

A post-graduate diploma in business management from XLRI and a bachelor of engineering from Jadavpur University. Anantharaman was also a senior advisor to British International Investment (formerly CDC), UK’s Development Finance Institution.

He serves on the boards of The Indian Hotels Company Limited, Axis Asset Management Company, IIFL Home Finance Ltd and Ecom Express Ltd. He is also an advisor to Lighthouse Funds, a consumer and healthcare-focused mid-market private equity firm.

He takes over from Mr. M V Nair who has stepped down after more than eleven years of chairmanship.


TransUnion CIBIL’s products and services include :

* Credit reports : A credit report is a document that summarizes a person’s credit history. It includes information on loans, credit cards, and other debts, as well as payment history and other details.

* Credit scores : A credit score is a number that lenders use to assess the risk of lending money to a borrower. Scores range from 300 to 900, with a higher score indicating a lower risk.

* Credit monitoring : Credit monitoring is a service that alerts borrowers to changes in their credit report, such as new accounts, inquiries, or late payments.

* Dispute resolution : TransUnion CIBIL offers a dispute resolution service that helps borrowers correct errors on their credit reports..

Source : Economic Times

Correct Answer :   US and UK

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The United States and Britain on Thursday (8th June 2023) announced a new strategic pact as their leaders rededicated the "special relationship" to counter Russia, China and economic instability.

They signed Atlantic Declaration to develop a new green economy through extensive industrial subsidies instead of pursuing a post-Brexit free-trade agreement.

What is Atlantic Declaration?

* The “Atlantic Declaration” aims to enhance industry collaboration in defense and renewable energy sectors in response to China’s growing competition.

* The declaration recognizes the challenges posed by authoritarian states, disruptive technologies, non-state actors, and transnational issues like climate change.

* Both leaders affirmed the strength of the transatlantic relationship and emphasized the need to adapt to the changing world economy driven by AI and technological advancements.


Key terms of the Atlantic Declaration :

Supply Chain Strengthening : The US and UK will strengthen their supply chains, invest in each other’s industries, and develop future technologies under the Atlantic Declaration.

Clean Energy Partnership : They agreed to launch a civil nuclear partnership, aiming to promote clean energy cooperation and reduce reliance on Russian fuel.

Technology and Critical Minerals : The countries will collaborate on the safe development of AI technology, negotiate a critical minerals agreement, and cooperate on telecoms technology and quantum technologies.

UK-US “Data Bridge” : The declaration includes a commitment in principle to a UK-US “data bridge” that facilitates the transfer of data between British and US businesses without unnecessary bureaucracy.

Critical Minerals Agreement : Negotiations on a critical minerals agreement will allow certain UK firms to access tax credits available under the US Inflation Reduction Act.

Business Collaboration : Cooperation will extend to telecoms technology, including 5G and 6G, as well as quantum technologies, fostering collaboration and innovation between the US and UK.

Correct Answer :   9th June

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World Accreditation Day is an annual global observance held on June 9th. It aims at recognizing and promoting the role of accreditation across various sectors.

Aim : This day aims to raise awareness about the value and benefits of accreditation in ensuring competence, reliability, and credibility in industries such as healthcare, laboratories, certification bodies, and conformity assessment services.

Accreditation plays a crucial role in building trust and confidence among consumers, businesses, and regulators. It is done by providing assurance that products, services, and systems meet international standards. It contributes to market access, facilitates international trade, and supports the protection of public health and safety. World Accreditation Day serves as a platform to acknowledge the efforts of accreditation bodies, conformity assessment professionals, and other stakeholders who uphold quality and integrity in their respective fields.

World Accreditation Day 2023 Theme :

* The chosen theme for this year revolves around the important concept of “Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global Trade." The central focus is to highlight how accreditation actively contributes to the achievement of several vital United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

* These goals include poverty eradication, hunger alleviation, promoting good health and well-being, fostering gender equality, and reducing inequalities. By aligning with these SDGs, accreditation plays a significant and indispensable role in fostering sustainable development and tackling critical global challenges.

World Accreditation Day History :

* World Accreditation Day came into existence in 2007 as a result of a joint effort between the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF).

* The initial commemoration occurred in 2008 and cantered around the theme “Accreditation: Delivering Trust in the Global Market." Throughout the years, World Accreditation Day has continuously delved into various aspects of accreditation, shedding light on its importance in domains like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the improvement of food quality.


World Accreditation Day 2023 Significance :

* World Accreditation Day holds immense significance as a global platform to raise awareness regarding the pivotal significance of accreditation across diverse sectors. Accreditation plays a crucial role in instilling trust and confidence among consumers, businesses, and regulators by ensuring that products, services, and systems adhere to internationally recognized standards. It facilitates market access, fosters international trade, and safeguards public health and safety.

* Furthermore, this day provides an opportunity to acknowledge and value the contributions made by accreditation bodies, professionals in conformity assessment, and other stakeholders who tirelessly uphold quality and integrity within their respective domains. Through a range of events, workshops, and campaigns organized on this occasion, the significance of accreditation is effectively conveyed to a broader audience.

Correct Answer :   Ritu Kalra

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Ritu Kalra, an Indian-American investment banking and financial management expert, has been named Vice President (VP) for finance and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Harvard University.

* She currently serves as assistant vice president of finance and treasury and special projects adviser in the university.

* The university in The Harvard Gazette said Kalra will oversee all aspects of financial management, including long-range planning, annual budgeting, endowment fund spending policy, treasury, and financial accounting and reporting.

* Her portfolio will also include research administration, strategic procurement, capital planning, and risk management.

* Overall, she will lead multiple financial departments with a full-time workforce of more than 200 people, the university release said.

* Before joining the University, Kalra spent 18 years at Goldman Sachs, where she held several progressive roles culminating in managing director and served as head of public sector and infrastructure finance for the western region, and as head of higher education finance nationally.

* In her infrastructure financing practice, she provided strategic advisory services to public and private sector entities throughout the US, including designing innovative financing strategies to manage climate-related risks, the university release said.

* Her new role begins in July and she will report to executive vice president Weenick, with a dotted line to president Claudine Gay..

Source : Mint

Correct Answer :   Amazon Kisan

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Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi signed a MoU with Amazon Kisan to combine strengths and create synergy between the two organizations for guiding the farmers on scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income.

* ICAR will provide technological backstopping to the farmers through Amazon’s network. It will improve farmers’ livelihood and boost crop yield. This MoU in farmer’s partnership with Amazon Kisan program will help ensuring access to high quality fresh produce for consumers across India, including through Amazon Fresh.

* Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary DARE & Director General ICAR, on this occasion, emphasized upon secondary agriculture for better remuneration for the farmers. He further highlighted the importance and role of critical inputs in agriculture and season-based crop plans. He mentioned that ICAR will collaborate with Amazon for technologies, capacity building and transfer of new knowledge.

* On the behalf of ICAR, Dr US Gautam, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension) and Mr. Sidhrtha Tata, Senior Product Leader from Amazon Fresh Supply Chain & Kisan signed the MoU.

* The outcomes from a pilot project at Pune between ICAR-KVK and Amazon has motivated to further expand the collaboration to extend the precise agriculture practices developed through extensive research. Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s will strengthen a wider group of farmers by leveraging technological base through transfer of technology and capacity building programmes.

* ICAR and Amazon will work together on other farmer engagement programs at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, conducting demonstrations, trials, and capacity building initiatives to enhance farming practices and farm profitability. Furthermore, Amazon will provide training support and assist farmers in marketing their produce through its online platform, facilitating direct connections with consumers..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   India

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India that last hosted the event in the year 1996 is set to host 71st Miss World 2023 pageant after a gap of 27 years.

* The announcement has come as a surprise as it comes months after confirmation of United Arab Emirates (UAE) as this year's venue for the much-awaited event.

* Though the exact date is yet to be announced, the beauty pageant is expected to take place in November or December 2023.

* Contestants from over 130 countries will gather in India to showcase their unique talents, intelligence, and compassion and will participate in a series of rigorous competitions, including talent showcases, sports challenges, and charitable initiatives.

* The statement further said that there will be several rounds to shortlist participants taking over a period of one month before the grand finale scheduled in November/December 2023.

* “India prepares to welcome the world with open arms with the 71st Miss World 2023 and showcase the country's grace, beauty, and progressive spirit. Join us in celebrating the power of women to make a difference, as we embark on this extraordinary journey together,” said the current Miss World Karolina Bielawska.

* In February this year, Julia Morley had announced that the competition will take place in the United Arab Emirates in 2023. "Further details to follow," Morley had said at the time.

* The first-ever Miss World from India Reita Faria won the contest in 1966. Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000) and most recently Manushi Chillar (2017) are the other Indian winners of the contest. Miss India World 2022 Sini Shetty will be representing India in Miss World 2023 contest..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Karnataka

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The Karnataka government has advised the women to apply for Shakti smart cards to avail the free travel in state run buses, starting from June 11, 2023.

* The government has already issued a set of guidelines on the ‘Shakti’ scheme, which is one of the major poll promises by the Congress party in Karnataka. According to the transport department of Karnataka, women can apply for Shakti smart cards through sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in from June 11, 2023.

* The Shakti scheme applies only on the ordinary state run bus services of Karnataka.

* All luxury buses such as Rajahamsa, Non-AC sleeper, Vajra, Vayu Vajra, Airavat, Airavat Club Class, Airavat Gold Class, Ambari, Ambari Dream Class, Ambari Utsav Fly Bus, EV Power Plus have been excluded from the purview of the scheme.

* The government said the benefits of the scheme can be availed in the buses operated by Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC).

* The scheme doesn’t also apply to those buses which travel outside the state. 50 per cent seats on KSRTC, NWKRTC and KKRTC’s ordinary and express buses will be reserved for men..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   6th June 2023

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Kerala's first 'Ashoka Chakra' winner Havildar Alby D'Cruz Passes away on Tuesday (6th June 2023). He was 87.

Alby, who received India’s highest peacetime military decoration from the first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, died at his residence at Cheriyathura in the capital following age-related ailments.

The funeral will be held at 10 am on Wednesday (7th June 2023) at Assumptions church, Cheriyathura. Before the funeral, the Indian Army Wing will offer a ceremonial salute to the departed warrior.

The country honoured him with the Ashoka Chakra for his extraordinary bravery during the civil strife with the Naga rebels in the 1960s. In a ceremony held in New Delhi on April 30, 1962, President Dr Rajendra Prasad, presented the Ashoka Chakra to Lance Naik Alby.

The then-prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru also congratulated him on the occasion.

While serving in Assam Rifles, Alby took part in the battle with Naga insurgents. He is survived by wife Matilda, sons Gladyston, and Ignatius and daughter Shobha and daughter-in-law Hazel, son-in-law Varghese, daughter-in-law Rubinette, and grandchildren Noel, Judith, Jubin, and Navomi. Transport Minister Antony Raju has expressed condolences over the demise of Alby D’Cruz..

Source : Indian Express