Correct Answer :   Filipino

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Roman Gabriel had big size and a big arm when he was the No. 2 draft pick of the Los Angeles Rams in 1962. Even while playing in an era of grinding it out on the ground, he still holds the Rams’ team record with 154 touchdown passes.

Gabriel, the first Filipino American quarterback in the NFL and the league MVP in 1969, died Saturday (20th April 2024). He was 83.

His son Roman Gabriel III announced his father’s death on social media, saying he died peacefully at home of natural causes.

In 2021, the elder Gabriel told the Los Angeles Times, “I am retired with heart problems and arthritis but happy.” He said he split time between Wilmington, North Carolina, and Little River, South Carolina.

“We mourn the loss of Rams legend and football pioneer, Roman Gabriel,” the Rams said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Gabriel, who played at North Carolina State and was a two-time player of the year in the Atlantic Coast Conference, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989.

He was 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds, big for a quarterback in that era. Green Bay coach Vince Lombardi once described him as “a big telephone pole,” according to the Los Angeles Times.

Gabriel played 11 years for the Rams and five years with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was traded after the Rams acquired John Hadl.

“Gabe was an amazing player and an even better mentor. Words can’t explain my thanks for what a great teammate he was,” retired quarterback Ron Jaworski, whom Gabriel backed up on the Eagles in his final season, posted on X. “A special player and a better man!”

Gabriel was such a hot prospect that the Rams made him the No. 2 pick in the NFL draft, and the Oakland Raiders of the rival AFL selected him No. 1. Gabriel wound up signing with the Rams, though it took until George Allen was hired as coach in 1966 for Gabriel to start leaving a mark.

From 1967 to 1970, Gabriel led the Rams to a 41-14-4 record and two division titles, though never a playoff game. He was voted MVP in 1969 after throwing for 2,549 yards with 24 touchdown passes and five rushing scores..

Source : NCB News

Correct Answer :   New Delhi

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On the auspicious occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated (21st April 2024) the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event paid tribute to the 24th Tirthankar, Bhagwan Mahaveer, whose teachings of Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya (Chastity), and Aparigraha (Non-attachment) have illuminated the path of peaceful coexistence and universal brotherhood.

Honouring India’s Spiritual Heritage :

During the ceremony, PM Modi released a commemorative stamp and coin, witnessing a dance drama titled “Vartaman mein Vardhaman” performed by school children. He praised the youth’s dedication to Bhagwan Mahaveer’s values, calling it a sign of the nation moving in the right direction.

Amrit Kaal: A Spiritual Inspiration :

Highlighting the significance of the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav, PM Modi noted the happy coincidence of it occurring during the initial phase of Amrit Kaal, as the nation works towards a golden century of independence. He emphasized that the idea of Amrit Kaal is not merely a resolution but a spiritual inspiration that allows us to live through immortality and eternity.

India’s Farsighted Approach :

The Prime Minister underlined India’s strength in envisioning centuries and millennia, attributing it to the nation’s farsighted approach and longest-living civilization. He stated, “It is India which thinks not for self but for all and believes in everyone. It is India which not only talks about traditions but also policies.”

Embracing Diversity and Seeking Peace :

PM Modi recalled philosophies like Anekantavada and Syadvada, which teach us to embrace diverse views and seek peace. He acknowledged that humanity expects peace from India in times of global conflict, owing to its cultural image, growing capabilities, and foreign policy initiatives like Mission LiFE, One Earth One Family and One Future, and One World-One Sun-One Grid.

Reviving Spiritual Values :

Stressing the relevance of Bhagwan Mahaveer’s teachings in the modern era, PM Modi urged citizens to follow the path of ‘Asteya and Ahimsa’ and revive spiritual values as a demand of the time. He stated, “For India, modernity is its body, spirituality is its soul. If spirituality is removed from modernity, anarchy is born.”

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Progress :

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s progress in overcoming challenges, with over 25 crore Indians emerging from poverty. He expressed his commitment to working for the nation’s future and thanked the saints for their inspiring words, encouraging citizens to seize the moment and embrace progress while upholding spiritual values.

As India celebrates the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav, it serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich spiritual heritage and the timeless teachings of non-violence, truthfulness, and universal brotherhood, guiding the country towards a prosperous and harmonious future.

Correct Answer :   E.S.L. Narasimhan

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Since its formation as India’s 29th state on June 2, 2014, Telangana has seen significant political and administrative transformations. Central to this transition was the appointment of its first governor, E.S.L. Narasimhan. Let’s delve into the journey and contributions of the inaugural governor who played a pivotal role in shaping the nascent state.

Who was the First Governor of Telangana?

Ekkadu Srinivasan Lakshmi Narasimhan, commonly known as E.S.L. Narasimhan, served as the first Governor of Telangana. Born in 1945, Narasimhan, a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, assumed office on June 2, 2014, following the formation of the state. Prior to this, he held the position of Governor of undivided Andhra Pradesh, making him a key figure during the transition period.

First Governor of Telangana – Basic Details

Name : Ekkadu Srinivasan Lakshmi Narasimhan
Date of birth : 1945
Birthplace : Madras Presidency, British India
Known for : 1st Governor of Telangana

Inaugural Governor of Telangana – Early Life and Education :

* Ekkadu Srinivasan Lakshmi Narasimhan, born in 1945 in Tamil Nadu, began his academic journey in Hyderabad before completing his education in Chennai. A distinguished student, he earned a gold medal in Political Science from Madras Presidency College and later graduated in Law from Madras Law College.

Telangana’s First Governor – Career in Civil Service :

* Joining the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968, Narasimhan served diligently in various capacities. Notably, he held the position of First Secretary at the Embassy of India in Moscow from 1981 to 1984. His expertise and dedication earned him respect as a top police official.

Service as Governor :

* In January 2007, Narasimhan embarked on a new chapter as he was appointed Governor of Chhattisgarh. His tenure witnessed significant developments in the state’s governance and administration. Later, he assumed the role of Governor of Andhra Pradesh, where he navigated through crucial phases, including the process for the formation of Telangana.

E.S.L. Narasimhan as First Governor of Telangana

* With the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, Narasimhan’s role expanded to encompass the newly formed state of Telangana. On June 2, 2014, he took on the additional charge as the first Governor of Telangana, marking a historic moment in the state’s journey.

* Narasimhan’s tenure in Telangana was marked by various challenges and opportunities. He played a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition of power and maintaining law and order during sensitive periods. His diplomatic engagements and strategic interventions contributed to advancing the state’s development agenda.

* Narasimhan’s tenure as Governor of Telangana, coupled with his previous roles, spanned over 12 years, making him the longest-serving governor in India’s history. His unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional values and serving the people earned him widespread admiration and respect.

Correct Answer :   North Korea

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South Korea's military reported the launch of what they suspected to be several short-range ballistic missiles by North Korea on Monday (22nd April 2024).

* South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the projectiles landed in waters to the east.

* The projectiles appeared to have landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone area, Japan's NHK broadcaster reported.

* North Korea has been increasing its weapons testing as tensions with the South and the US remain high. Pyongyang is prohibited by UN resolutions from launching or testing ballistic missiles of any range.

Tensions on the Korean peninsula

* On Saturday, the North Korean military announced that it had tested a "super-large" cruise missile warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile on Friday in an area along its Western coast.

* Leader Kim Jong Un has repeatedly stated his aim to build up a nuclear arsenal to ward off its "enemies," namely the US, South Korea and Japan.

* The head of the US Space Command, General Stephen Whiting, was in South Korea on Monday to discuss surveillance of the North's satellite program.

* Earlier this year, Pyongyang ended outreach programs that aimed to improve relations on the peninsula and threatened war over "even 0.001 mm" of territorial infringement.

Ties between Pyongyang and Moscow :

* Kim's budding relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked concern that the two countries are supporting each other.

* Pyongyang has been accused of supplying Moscow with weapons for its war in Ukraine. In return, analysts believe North Korea is getting help for its weapons programs, especially anti-aircraft technology.

* The South has claimed that its northern neighbor has already sent around 7,000 containers of weapons to Russia to be used in Ukraine.

* UN monitoring of North Korea's weapons programs, which checks for violations of the many sanctions against the country's nuclear ambitions, was effectively brought to an end in March when Russia used its Security Council veto..

Source : DW

Correct Answer :   European

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European astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery – the largest stellar black hole in our Milky Way galaxy. Named ‘BH-3’, this celestial behemoth has a staggering mass 33 times greater than our Sun and is located a mere 2,000 light-years away from Earth.

ESA’s Gaia Space Observatory: The Cosmic Detective :

* The existence of ‘BH-3’ was unveiled by the Gaia Space Observatory, a cutting-edge mission operated by the European Space Agency (ESA). Launched in 2013, the Gaia telescope is designed to map the positions, motions, and characteristics of billions of celestial objects with unprecedented precision.

* Scientists detected the presence of ‘BH-3’ when they observed peculiarities in the rotation of a star in the ‘Aquila’ constellation. This star, it turns out, is locked in an orbital dance around the massive black hole, revealing its existence through its gravitational influence.

A Rare and Surprising Discovery :

* “The surprising thing is that this largest black hole of stellar origin in our galaxy (Milky Way) is not far from the Earth,” said Dr. Pasquale Panuzzo, an astronomer associated with the Gaia Space Observatory. ‘BH-3’ is only the second black hole discovered to be among the closest to our planet.

* Most stellar black holes previously discovered in the Milky Way have masses around 10 times that of our Sun. However, ‘BH-3’ stands out as an exceptional case, with a mass more than three times greater than any other stellar black hole found thus far.

A Cosmic Rarity and Future Exploration :

* Scientists estimate that there may be up to one billion stellar black holes like ‘BH-3’ in our galaxy. However, detecting them is an immense challenge, as most stellar black holes do not have stars orbiting them, making their presence difficult to discern.

* The discovery of ‘BH-3’ not only expands our understanding of the diverse population of black holes in the Milky Way but also paves the way for further exploration of these enigmatic celestial objects. With the help of advanced observatories like Gaia, astronomers hope to unravel more secrets about the formation, evolution, and properties of black holes, shedding light on the most extreme environments in our universe.

Correct Answer :   Meta

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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced the launch of the company’s advanced AI assistant, Meta AI, powered by the state-of-the-art language model Llama 3. The new AI offering is designed to enhance the user experience across Meta’s popular apps, including WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, while also being available on a dedicated website, meta.ai.

Global Expansion and Integration :

* In a significant move, Meta AI is expanding its services to over a dozen countries, including Australia, Canada, Ghana, Jamaica, and South Africa, after previously being available only in the United States. The AI assistant has been seamlessly integrated with major Meta apps, allowing users to access its features without switching between different platforms.

* Moreover, Meta has partnered with tech giants Google and Bing to provide real-time information through Meta AI, ensuring users have access to the latest and most accurate data.

Innovative Features and Capabilities :

* Meta AI promises to deliver faster and more accurate assistance to users, aiding them in tasks such as finding restaurants, planning trips, studying for exams, and generating design inspiration. One of the standout features is the introduction of “Imagine,” which enables users to create images in real-time from text descriptions.

* This beta feature is currently available on WhatsApp and the Meta AI website, allowing users to watch their visions come to life as they type. Additionally, users can personalize their content by animating images, altering styles, and transforming images into GIFs using Meta AI.

Future Developments and Expansion :

* Looking ahead, Meta is working on making Meta AI accessible on its VR headset, Meta Quest, and plans to integrate the AI assistant with the platform and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. This move aims to expand the reach and versatility of Meta AI, offering users a more immersive and seamless experience across various devices and platforms.

Correct Answer :   Nalin Prabhat

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The appointments committee of the Cabinet has approved two key appointments in India’s premier security agencies. Nalin Prabhat, a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director-General of the National Security Guard (NSG), while Sapna Tewari, a 1992 batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, has been appointed as the Special Director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB).

Nalin Prabhat’s Appointment as NSG Chief :

* Nalin Prabhat, who is currently serving as the Additional Director-General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Jammu and Kashmir, has been appointed as the Director-General of the NSG, which is the country’s premier counter-terrorism and counter-hijack force.

* According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Prabhat’s appointment as the NSG chief is effective until his superannuation on August 31, 2028. The NSG is a highly specialized force trained to counter terrorist activities, hijackings, and other high-risk situations.

Sapna Tewari’s Appointment as Special Director in IB :

* Sapna Tewari, currently serving as Additional Director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB), has been appointed as the Special Director in the IB. The DoPT order states that her appointment is for a tenure of two years from the date of assumption of charge or until her superannuation on April 30, 2026, whichever is earlier.

* The IB is India’s premier intelligence agency responsible for gathering and disseminating intelligence related to national security, counter-terrorism, and other critical matters.

Significance of the Appointments :

* These appointments hold significant importance as both the NSG and the IB play crucial roles in ensuring the nation’s security and maintaining law and order. The selection of experienced and highly capable officers like Nalin Prabhat and Sapna Tewari reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s security apparatus.

* With their extensive experience and proven track records, the newly appointed officers are expected to provide strong leadership and effective counter-terrorism strategies, while also enhancing the operational capabilities of their respective organizations.

Correct Answer :   April 19th

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On April 19th, the global community comes together to observe World Liver Day, an initiative dedicated to shedding light on the importance of liver health and promoting preventive measures against liver diseases. This annual event serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness, encouraging lifestyle changes, and supporting those affected by liver-related conditions.

The Vital Role of the Liver :

The liver is a remarkable organ that plays a pivotal role in numerous bodily functions, including immunity, digestion, and metabolism. Any disruption or disease affecting the liver can have far-reaching implications, impacting not only the digestive system but also the kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. Excessive fat accumulation in the liver, a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing concern that can lead to serious health complications if left unchecked.

2024 Theme: “Keep your liver healthy and disease-free” :

This year’s theme, “Keep your liver healthy and disease-free,” emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and regular health check-ups to detect and address liver-related disorders early on. By promoting a proactive approach to liver health, the campaign aims to empower individuals to make informed choices and adopt lifestyle habits that can safeguard their liver’s well-being.

The Origins of World Liver Day :

Introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Liver Day was first formally commemorated on April 19, 2012. Since its inception, the observance has gained significant traction, with health organizations, hospitals, and liver treatment institutes worldwide organizing various programs and activities to raise awareness and support those affected by liver diseases.

Significance and Impact :

World Liver Day serves as an invaluable opportunity to educate the public about the risk factors associated with liver disease, including alcohol consumption, obesity, viral hepatitis, and certain medications. Many individuals remain unaware of the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and the simple lifestyle changes that can help prevent it.

On this day, health organizations and medical professionals reinforce the message of liver health through awareness campaigns, health screenings, and educational initiatives. Individuals can actively participate by attending events, sharing information within their communities, and supporting organizations dedicated to liver disease research and patient care.

Furthermore, World Liver Day encourages individuals to make donations to support liver cancer patients and improve their quality of life. Numerous charities and foundations work tirelessly to raise funds for research, treatment, and support services for those affected by liver-related illnesses.

As we observe World Liver Day 2024, let us embrace the opportunity to prioritize our liver health, educate ourselves and others, and contribute to the collective effort of raising awareness and supporting those in need. Together, we can foster a future where liver diseases are better understood, prevented, and effectively managed, ensuring a healthier and more vibrant global community.

Correct Answer :   Varanasi

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In a significant development, two iconic products from the historic city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, have been granted the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) status. On April 16, 2024, the GI Registry Office based in Chennai announced that the Tiranga Barfi of Varanasi and the Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft have been included in the prestigious GI category.

Uttar Pradesh’s GI Product Tally Reaches 75 :

This latest addition has further strengthened Uttar Pradesh’s position as a leader in the GI domain. With the inclusion of Tiranga Barfi and Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft, the total number of GI products from the state has reached an impressive 75, comprising 58 handicrafts and 17 agricultural and food products. This remarkable achievement sets a new record for the highest number of GI tags associated with a particular state in India.

The Iconic Tiranga Barfi :

Steeped in the rich history of India’s independence movement, the Tiranga Barfi holds a special place in the hearts of Varanasi’s residents. During the struggle for freedom, this tricolored sweetmeat was ingeniously crafted to facilitate secret meetings and information exchange among revolutionaries. The saffron hue is derived from saffron, the green color comes from pistachio, and the white shade is created using khoya and cashew nuts.

Varanasi’s Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft :

The Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft, originating from the Kashipura locality of Varanasi, has gained national recognition for its intricate and exquisite metal idols. The craftsmen in this region have mastered the art of casting idols of deities such as Maa Annapurna, Lakshmi-Ganesh, Durgaji, and Hanumanji, along with various instruments, bells, thrones, and seals for minting coins.

Varanasi’s GI Journey :

Varanasi, often referred to as the “most diverse GI city,” has witnessed a remarkable growth in the number of GI-registered products over the past nine years. Prior to 2014, only the Banaras Brocade and Sarees, and the Bhadohi Handmade Carpets from the Varanasi region had been granted the GI tag. However, this number has now soared to an impressive 34, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship.

Economic and Cultural Impact :

The GI recognition has not only provided international legal protection to India’s heritage but has also generated an annual business of approximately Rs. 30,000 crores in the Varanasi region and nearby GI-registered districts. This has directly benefited around 20 lakh people who are now legally protected for their traditional products. Additionally, new employment opportunities have emerged, and these products are rapidly reaching global markets through tourism, trade, and e-marketing initiatives.

With the technical support of the Human Welfare Association alone, a remarkable 148 GI products have been registered across 14 states, further solidifying India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage.

Correct Answer :   Third

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Key Points :

Hindustan Zinc is now the 3rd largest silver producer globally, with highest silver annual production, up 5% y-o-y

Holds 2nd largest zinc reserves and resources globally

Industry leading production growth rate with best-ever annual metal production

Highest-ever quarterly refined metal production for Q4 FY24, up 6% sequentially

1st decile of the global zinc mines cost curve; lowest annual COP in last 3 years at US$ 1,117/MT

Quarterly Revenue up by 3% and EBITDA up by 2%

Ranked first globally in S&P Sustainability Assessment in Metals and Mining sector

Hindustan Zinc Limited (“HZL”), the leading global integrated producer of zinc, lead and silver, reported its results for the fourth quarter and full year ended March 31, 2024.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Arun Misra, CEO, said: “FY 2023-24 has been a year of solid growth for HZL, with mined metal, refined metal, and silver recording its highest historic production levels, supported by a backdrop of fatality-free operations. As part of our strategy, it was driven by our increased focus on silver & metal production and cost optimisation. The company withstood the market headwinds during the year, ensuring preservation of margins and shareholder value. Fuelled by our robust silver maximisation strategy, I am thrilled to announce that HZL has now become the 3rd largest silver producer globally. Additionally, during the quarter, HZL also incorporated ‘Hindmetal Exploration Services Private Limited’, as a wholly owned subsidiary, with an objective to explore, discover, develop and tap mineral resources aligning with the national focus and vision.

Our commitment on the sustainability efforts remains robust. I am happy to share that our renewable energy (RE) power delivery agreement of 450 MW is advancing well and the first flow of RE power is now preponed and expected to begin in April’24, contributing to our journey towards achieving net zero targets. Our company has been awarded the CII National HR Excellence Award underscoring our exemplary people practices. With the full implementation of commissioned projects, HZL is poised for another exceptional year ahead.”

Mr. Sandeep Modi, CFO, said : “Despite the plunging metal prices, HZL has consistently sustained its margin at a steady 47% by recording its fifth consecutive quarter of sustained cost reduction, clocking the lowest cost in last 3 years. This demonstrates the effectiveness of our agile decision-making strategy, with instances such as maximization of silver production leveraging the soaring silver prices, power plant modifications ensuring better linkage coal consumption thereby lowering the power costs along with operational & commercial efficiencies. I firmly believe that the challenges encountered throughout the year have strengthened our resilience and fortitude, propelling us to strive for even greater performance in the upcoming year towards our aspired annual targets and strong balance sheet.”.

Source : HZ India