Correct Answer :   February 12th

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Every year on February 12th : The world observes the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism (PVE Day). This crucial day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the dangers of violent extremism and promote international cooperation in tackling this complex issue.

The Challenge of Violent Extremism :

Violent extremism manifests in various forms, often fueled by ideological, political, or religious radicalization. It thrives on marginalization, social grievances, and a lack of opportunities, leading individuals to adopt violent means to achieve their goals. This phenomenon creates widespread fear, disrupts lives, and destabilizes communities across the globe.

The Importance of PVE Day :

PVE Day highlights the urgency of addressing the root causes of violent extremism. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies that go beyond security measures and focus on:

Promoting social inclusion and addressing grievances.
Providing educational and economic opportunities.
Countering online radicalization and hate speech.
Empowering communities to build resilience and foster peace.

PVE Day, Theme 2024 :

This year’s (2024) theme : “Living Together: Fostering Community Resilience to Prevent Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism” underscores the collective responsibility to build inclusive and resilient societies where violent extremism finds no ground.

Taking Action: What Can You Do?

PVE Day is not just for governments and organizations; everyone can play a role in preventing violent extremism:

* Educate yourself about the causes and consequences of violent extremism.
* Challenge intolerance and promote understanding within your community.
* Support initiatives that promote social inclusion and address inequalities.
* Speak out against hate speech and discrimination.
* Engage in dialogue with diverse perspectives and promote peaceful conflict resolution.

Correct Answer :   Madhya Pradesh

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Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi on Sunday (11th Feb 2024) said that during the last 10 years, the government has been dedicated to the upliftment, pride, and respect of the tribal society.  Addressing the Tribal Mahakumbh organized in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, he said that every guarantee of empowerment and development of tribes has been fulfilled by the double-engine government of BJP.
 
He said that tribal society is not a vote bank for us but they are the pride of the country and the guarantee of the country's bright future.
 
Mr Modi said that the BJP government has made a record increase in MSP on forest produce and has also increased the number of forest produce items under the ambit of MSP from 10 to 90 forest produce, he added that Van Dhan Kendras have been opened to provide new markets to tribal products.
 
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched multiple development projects worth about 7,300 crore rupees in Jhabua, the tribal-dominated district of Madhya Pradesh. Mr. Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stone of multiple initiatives that will benefit the significant tribal population of the region. The Prime Minister also disbursed monthly installments of Aahar Anudan under Aahar Anudan Yojna to about two lakh women beneficiaries. Mr Modi distributed 1 lakh 75 thousand records of rights to beneficiaries of the SVAMITVA Scheme.

The Prime Minister also transferred around 55 crore rupees for 559 villages under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of ‘CM Rise School’ in Jhabua.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of the drinking water supply scheme for more than one thousand villages of Dhar and Ratlam districts; and 14 urban water supply schemes under AMRUT 2.0 and Nal Jal Yojna for 50 Gram Panchayats of Jhabua.

He laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the redevelopment of Ratlam railway station and Meghnagar railway station, doubling of Indore-Dewas-Ujjain C cabin railway line; Itarsi-North-South grade separator with yard remodeling; and third line connecting Barkhera-Budni-Itarsi. Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation multiple road development projects worth more than 3275 crore in Madhya Pradesh..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   IIT Bhubaneswar

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Bhubaneswar, 11th February 2024 :  Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has taken a significant step towards fostering innova on and research in the renewable energy sector by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar. The MoU, inked today at the 100 Cube Start-up Conclave held at IIT Bhubaneswar, aims to support collaborative efforts in innovation and research ini a ves, technology transfer, and nurturing the start-up ecosystem.

The MoU was signed by Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director of IREDA, and Dr. Debi Prasad Dogra, Independent Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, in the august presence of Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Union Minister for Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director of IIT Bhubaneswar.

Speaking on this momentous occasion, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD of IREDA, said, "This partnership with IIT Bhubaneswar marks a significant milestone in our journey towards fostering innova on and sustainable development in the renewable energy domain.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of both organizations, we aim to drive impactful research initiatives and propel the growth of the renewable energy sector."

The collabora on between IREDA and IIT Bhubaneswar is poised to facilitate joint research efforts, facilitate technology transfer, and provide comprehensive support for the start-up ecosystem.

It will also encompass capacity building ini a ves such as training programs, seminars, and workshops to enhance the skills of IREDA officials..

Source : Ireda

Correct Answer :   200th

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February 12, 2024, marks the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, born on February 12, 1824, in Tankara, Gujarat, who has contributed to Indian spirituality and societal reform.

In a momentous commemoration of the 200th birth anniversary of Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered a profound address via video message at the birthplace of the revered Swami, Tankara in Morbi, Gujarat. The event, organized by the Arya Samaj, stands as a testament to Swami Ji’s enduring contributions to Indian spirituality and societal reform.

About Swami Dayanand Saraswati :

* Date of Birth: 12th February 1824
* Birth Place: Mool Shankar Tiwari
* Religion: Hinduism
* Nationality: Indian
* Founder of: Arya Samaj
* Death: 30th October 1883
* Place of Death: 30th October 1883

Reflecting on Swami Ji’s Contributions :

Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight at the extensive festivities organized by the Arya Samaj to honor Swami Dayananda’s profound influence. Highlighting his personal connection to Swami Ji’s teachings and acknowledging the impact they’ve had on his own life, PM Modi emphasized the importance of passing down the legacy of such remarkable personalities to future generations.

Who was Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati?

Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, born Mool Shankar Tiwari on February 12, 1824, in Tankara, Gujarat, was a stalwart of Indian society whose influence resonates to this day. His profound impact on religious reform, education, and social justice laid the groundwork for a modern and enlightened India. From the founding of the Arya Samaj to his relentless advocacy for Vedic principles, Maharishi Dayanand’s legacy continues to inspire generations.

Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati – Early Life and Spiritual Awakening :

Raised in a devout Brahmin family, young Mool Shankar was immersed in the rituals and teachings of Hinduism from an early age. However, it was the death of his sister at 14 that ignited his quest for deeper truths. Rejecting societal norms, he embarked on a spiritual journey across India, seeking answers from yogis and sages. His encounter with Swami Virajananda in Mathura marked a turning point, as he delved into the study of the Vedas and embraced the name Rishi Dayanand.

Spiritual Beliefs and Ideals of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati :

Maharishi Dayanand’s teachings were rooted in the pristine wisdom of the Vedas, advocating for a pure and unadulterated form of Hinduism. He vehemently opposed idol worship, caste discrimination, and superstitions, calling for a return to the core principles of Dharma and Ahimsa. His emphasis on social equality, education for all, and the pursuit of truth resonated deeply with the masses, sparking a wave of reform across India.

Founding of Arya Samaj By Swami Dayanand Saraswati :

In 1875, Maharishi Dayanand established the Arya Samaj in Bombay, heralding a new era of Hindu reform. The Samaj’s motto, “Krinvan to Vishvam Aryam” (Make this world noble), encapsulated its mission to purify and rejuvenate Hinduism. Through its tenets, the Arya Samaj advocated for the supremacy of Vedic knowledge, the pursuit of truth, and the promotion of social welfare. Rejecting orthodox practices, it championed widow remarriage, women’s education, and the abolition of caste distinctions.

Educational Reforms and Legacy of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati :

Maharishi Dayanand’s vision extended beyond religious revival to encompass educational reform. He established Gurukuls and Anglo-Vedic schools to impart Vedic knowledge alongside modern education. The founding of the Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) College Trust and Management Society further solidified his commitment to holistic learning. Despite facing opposition and adversity, his legacy endured, inspiring leaders of India’s independence movement and fostering a global network of Arya Samaj branches.

Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati – Legacy and Influence :

Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati’s legacy transcends borders and generations, shaping the spiritual and cultural fabric of India and beyond. His unwavering commitment to truth, righteousness, and social justice continues to resonate with millions, reaffirming the timeless relevance of his teachings. As India celebrates his enduring legacy, Maharishi Dayanand remains a beacon of enlightenment, guiding humanity towards a brighter and more enlightened future.

Embracing Swami Ji’s Vision in the Modern Era :

As the nation embarks on the Amrit Kaal, Prime Minister Modi urged Indians to draw inspiration from Swami Dayananda’s vision of a bright future for the nation. He emphasized the need to convert faith into self-confidence and to embrace modernity while staying rooted in India’s rich cultural heritage.

Correct Answer :   February 10, 2024

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In the ’60s, at a time when a lot of Indian art and many artists were still looking at the West for guidance, A Ramachandran found a language that was rooted in home — in the temples of Kerala that he had observed closely as a child and the realism and humanism of Santiniketan, where he was a student in the ’50s. Witnessing violence on the streets of Delhi in the ’80s may have led him to reject cataclysmic images for more joyous portrayals that celebrated nature, but his leanings continued to challenge conventions. “He was somebody who worked against the tide in different ways throughout his life,” says art critic and historian R Siva Kumar.

On 10th February 2024, that undaunted voice that challenged norms was silenced forever. Ramachandran passed away in Delhi due to kidney issues. He was 88.

About A Ramachandran :

Born in Attingal, Kerala, it was a chance encounter with Ramkinkar Baij’s iconic sculpture Santhal Family (1938) that took the postgraduate in Malayalam literature to Santinketan on a scholarship to study Kerala’s mural art. Well-versed with the writings of authors such as Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Saadat Hasan Manto, and Fyodor Dostoevsky, the disquietude of their words was to influence his imagery, as did his teachers such as Benode Behari Mukherjee and Baij, who emphasised on free expression.

Exposed to the “miseries of life” upon his arrival at the Sealdah Station (Kolkata), which was teeming with people post-Partition, Ramachandran’s early imagery reflected pain and misery. If in Kali Puja (1972) the terrorising figures responded to the Naxal movement, End of Yadavas (1973) warned of an apocalyptic future. His version of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, in 1968, had headless men around a table with their hands raised and an emaciated Christ under the table.

The incentive of a regular stipend offered by Delhi’s Kumar Art Gallery in the ’60s brought him to the Capital But Ramachandran was unfazed in continuing his pursuits rooted in tradition and society. The artist-pedagogue who joined Jamia Milia Islamia in 1965 played a pivotal role in working towards the establishment of the Faculty of Fine Arts in Jamia with artist-colleague Paramjit Singh. He also inspired several youngsters to dream through children’s books that he illustrated using traditional art forms with his wife Chameli. “As kids, we grew up surrounded by nature, grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. I listened to stories from my grandmother, played near the river, climbed trees, and collected flowers for festivals — these experiences influenced my sensibilities. Children growing up in nuclear families don’t have these experiences. When Chameli and I started designing books, we took the role of a grandparent for our children,” he stated in an interview with The Indian Express in 2023..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   February 11

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World Unani Day is celebrated annually on February 11, marking the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan, a renowned Unani practitioner and visionary who made significant contributions to the field of Unani medicine. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the Unani system of medicine, one of the oldest healthcare systems in the world, which originated in Greece and was further developed in the Middle East and South Asia. The celebration of World Unani Day underscores the importance of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare and its potential to promote health, wellness, and sustainable healthcare solutions globally.

Historical Background :

The Unani system of medicine, also known as Greco-Arab medicine, has its roots in the teachings of Greek physicians such as Hippocrates and Galen. It was later enriched by Arab and Persian scholars during the medieval period, notably by the works of Avicenna (Ibn Sina), who significantly contributed to its theoretical and practical knowledge base. The system arrived in India around the 12th century and flourished under the patronage of the Mughal Empire, blending with Indian traditional medicine and practices.

The Legacy of Hakim Ajmal Khan :

Hakim Ajmal Khan (1868-1927) was a pivotal figure in the history of Unani medicine in India. He was not only a practitioner but also a passionate advocate for the integration of Unani with other forms of traditional medicine. His efforts led to the establishment of institutions such as the Jamia Hamdard and the Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College in Delhi, which played crucial roles in the education and research in Unani medicine. Celebrating World Unani Day on his birth anniversary is a tribute to his contributions and legacy in revitalizing and promoting Unani medicine.

Principles of Unani Medicine :

Unani medicine is based on the principles of the four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. It emphasizes the balance between these elements within the body to maintain health and treat diseases. The Unani approach to health is holistic, considering physical, mental, and environmental factors in diagnosis and treatment. Treatments in Unani medicine include the use of herbal remedies, dietary practices, and lifestyle modifications.

Significance of World Unani Day :

World Unani Day serves multiple purposes: it raises awareness about the Unani system of medicine, encourages the integration of traditional knowledge with modern healthcare practices, and promotes natural and holistic approaches to health and wellness. The day also highlights the need for research and development in traditional medicine systems to validate their practices and integrate them into mainstream healthcare.

Celebrations and Activities :

World Unani Day is celebrated by organizing seminars, workshops, and awareness programs by educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and practitioners of Unani medicine. These events aim to educate the public about the benefits and practices of Unani medicine, its historical significance, and its relevance in today’s healthcare scenario. Additionally, efforts are made to promote research in the field of Unani medicine, encouraging collaboration between traditional practitioners and modern medical researchers.

Correct Answer :   Alexander Stubb

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Alexander Stubb of the centre-right National Coalition Party narrowly won Finland's presidential election on Sunday (11th Feb 2024), defeating liberal Green Party member Pekka Haavisto, who conceded defeat.

Stubb is pro-European and a strong supporter of Ukraine who has taken a tough stance towards Russia.

He declared himself winner in the run-off vote after securing 51.6% of the votes as 99.7% of ballots had been counted, against Haavisto's 48.4%, justice ministry data showed.

Finland new head of state will be responsible for its security and foreign policy, including the recently approved NATO member's stance towards Russia, with which it shares a long border.

In televised remarks Stubb called his victory "the greatest honour" of his life.

"The feeling is calm, humble but of course at the same time I am extremely happy and grateful that the Finns in such large numbers have voted and that I get to serve as president of the Republic of Finland," he said.

Stubb, a former prime minister, had won the first round on Jan. 28 with 27.2% of the vote ahead of Haavisto on 25.8%. He has also led Haavisto in opinion surveys, most recently by 6-8 percentage points.

Haavisto congratulated Stubb as "the 13th president of Finland".

"I believe Finland now gets a good president for the republic. Alexander Stubb is an experienced, competent person for the job. No more babble," he said.

The vote marks a new era in Finland, which for decades has elected presidents to foster diplomacy, in particular with neighbouring Russia, and opted not to join military alliances so it could soothe tensions between Moscow and NATO.

But Finns changed their minds after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, in a rapid U-turn that led to the country joining NATO in April last year.

Now under the Western alliance's security umbrella, Stubb will replace Sauli Niinisto, who is retiring after two six-year terms in which he earned the nickname "the Putin Whisperer" for his previous close ties with the Russian leader.

Stubb will have a central role in defining Finland's NATO policies, while taking the lead on overall foreign and security policy in close cooperation with the government and acting as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

"Warm congratulations to Alexander Stubb. Finland is our close friend and partner," Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said in a post on X..

Source :  Reuters.

Correct Answer :   Pai

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Paytm E-commerce has undergone a significant transformation, renaming itself as Pai Platforms. Alongside this rebranding, it has acquired Bitsila, a prominent seller platform operating within the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

Name Change :

* Paytm E-commerce Private Limited officially becomes Pai Platforms Private Limited, following approval from the Registrar of Companies on February 8.
* The company’s original incorporation under the name Paytm E-Commerce Private Limited marks its evolution into Pai Platforms.

Acquisition of Bitsila :

* Pai Platforms’ acquisition of Bitsila, established in 2020, solidifies its position within the ONDC ecosystem.
* Bitsila, known for its full-stack omnichannel and hyperlocal commerce capabilities, supports major brands like McDonald’s and BigBasket on ONDC.

Enhanced Commerce Play :

* The acquisition amplifies Pai Platforms’ presence as a leading buyer platform on the ONDC network.
* Bitsila’s robust capabilities enable it to oversee over 600 million product categories across 10,000+ stores in 30+ cities, spanning sectors such as grocery, food and beverages, fashion, beauty, BPC, and home decor.

Correct Answer :   Hyderabad

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The Sangeet Natak Akademi is all set to establish the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra in Hyderabad, the first of its kind regional centre of the Akademi in the region.

Former vice-president M Venkaiah Naidu and Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy will inaugurate the Centre on Monday (12th Feb 2024) and also lay the foundation stone for the South India Cultural Centre of the Bharat Kala Mandapam Auditorium, at Shilpa Kala Vedika, Hitech City.

Kishan Reddy said that it is a matter of pride that South India’s rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage that is renowned globally will be further strengthened through this dedicated South India Cultural Centre of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Culture and an apex body in the field of performing arts in the country, promotes the rich cultural heritage of South India. The Ministry of Culture decided to set up a Regional Centre of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Hyderabad that will be known as Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik kendra.

Being the first centre to be set up across South India, it aims to enhance the promotion, research and documentation of music, folk and tribal arts, theatre and puppetry. The centre will have a state-of-art facility and a prominent cultural space that would foster the cultural growth and performative milieu of the state.

During this event, the Ministry of Culture will felicitate the recent Padma awardees from the Telugu states including the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri awardees..

Source : New Indian Express

Correct Answer :   NADA

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The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) hosted the “Road to Paris 2024: Championing Clean Sports and Uniting for Anti-Doping” Conference. The event aimed to educate Indian athletes about the dangers of prohibited substances while emphasizing ethical competition.

Inauguration of CoE-NSTS at NFSU :

* Anurag Singh Thakur virtually inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Nutritional Supplements Testing (CoE-NSTS) at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
* NFSU, known for its expertise in forensic and cyber sciences, now houses a cutting-edge facility dedicated to testing nutritional supplements for athletes.

Launch of “The Paris Pinnacle” Guide :

* NADA unveiled “The Paris Pinnacle: NADA’s Guide to Ethical Sporting,” a comprehensive resource providing guidelines for athletes preparing for the Paris Olympics 2024.
* The guide aims to empower athletes to compete ethically and uphold fair play principles.

Stakeholder Participation :

* The conference saw participation from senior government officials, representatives of national sports federations, industry stakeholders, and media professionals.
* Their collective engagement highlighted India’s commitment to promoting clean sports and ethical competition globally.

India’s Commitment to Clean Sports :

* As athletes worldwide gear up for the 2024 Olympics, India reaffirms its dedication to championing clean sports and combating doping.
* Through collaborative efforts, India asserts its role as a leader in fair play, integrity, and ethical competition in sports.