Correct Answer :   Telangana

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Telangana Government will set up a dedicated AI city in 50 acres to 100 acres. The Government will position Hyderabad and Telangana as the AI capital of the country by inviting the top global and national technology companies to set up their AI Centres, said the State Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan in her traditional address to the joint sitting of the legislature on Thursday (8th Feb 2024).

The Government has also announced that one of the most significant forthcoming initiatives would be to introduce internet as basic right. She said that the the focus would not just be to create digital infrastructure, but also to make it accessible and affordable to all sections of society.

The Government accordingly planned to implement a thorough digital literacy programme to ensure that every household, regardless of its economic status or location, would be able to benefit from the rapid digital adoption of the opportunities that were arising..

Source : Thehindu

Correct Answer :   Google

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Maharashtra Government signed an MoU with Google to harness AI for new possibilities in the State’s growth and development. it was signed by Sanjay Gupta, Country Head of Google India and Chief Secretary of Maharashtra government Nitin Kareer.

“This MoU is a bold step in advancing ‘AIForMaharashtra’ Google’s AI leadership and technology expertise will help the Maharashtra Government unlock new possibilities in the State’s growth and development” said Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the social media post.

He added, “We see AI as the key to unlocking a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future for the State and are excited to partner with Google on this journey.”

“Technology has the potential to deliver boundless benefits to the economy, society, and people. Today, we’re thrilled to join hands with the Maharashtra government on AI solutions that empower citizens, create new opportunities, and build a thriving innovation ecosystem” said Google India in a social media post on Thursday (8th Feb 2024)..

Source : The Hindu Businessline

Correct Answer :   Dubai

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In an effort to shape the future of governance, more than 85 international and regional organizations are gearing up for the 11th edition of the World Governments Summit.

Scheduled from February 12th to 14th, 2024, in Dubai, UAE, this summit carries the theme "Shaping Future Governments." India, Türkiye, and Qatar have been declared the guests of honor at the 2024 World Governments Summit. Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is set to address the summit on February 14th, highlighting the significance of the event on a global scale.

The participating organizations are poised to tackle current and future global challenges, aiming to foster solutions for a more developed, prosperous, and secure future across various sectors. With over 27 heads of organizations participating in the main sessions, discussions will center on six critical topics including Government Acceleration and Transformation, Artificial Intelligence and The Next Frontiers, Reimagining Development and Future Economies, Future Societies and Education, Sustainability and The New Global Shifts, and Urbanization and Global Health Priorities.

The summit will host over 15 global forums, many organized in partnership with international and regional entities, further enhancing collaboration on a global scale. World Governments Summit Organization is actively seeking to strengthen cooperation with international and regional organizations. Their recent delegation embarked on a tour to several global capitals, engaging in high-level meetings with heads of various organizations. These discussions aimed to explore opportunities for expanding partnerships between the summit and these esteemed entities..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   Ram Nath Kovind

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'One Nation One Election' Committee Chairman Ram Nath Kovind held a consultation meeting with members of Republican Party of India-Athawale (RPI) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in New Delhi.

In September 2023, the central government formed this committee under the leadership of former President Ramnath Kovind.

Correct Answer :   Bangladesh

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India and Bangladesh were declared joint winners of the SAFF U-19 Women's Championship following a massive controversy on Thursday. After the teams were tied at 11-11 in the penalty shoot-out, India were declared winners via a coin toss but the decision was not accepted well by the crowd or the Bangladesh team. Huge protests followed both from the team as well as the home crowd and after some time, the decision was taken to declare both India and Bangladesh joint winners.

The match ended 1-1 in regulation time and after India were declared winners, the crowd expressed their displeasure by throwing bottles and other objects. The officials quickly escorted the Indian players out of the field and after around two hours of deliberation, the decision was taken to award the trophy to both the teams.

AIFF Acting Secretary General, M Satyanarayan said: "India, despite being declared winners after the spin of the coin, decided to accept the officials' request for sharing the trophy as the situation was simmering and a section of the home fans was found indulging in creating disturbances. Since the security of the players and other team officials is our utmost priority, the AIFF decided to agree to the request of the organisers."

India led for the majority of the contest, riding on Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam's early goal before Sagorika equalised for the hosts in injury time to take it into penalties. After an extraordinary shoot-out which remained locked at 11-11 as every single player on the pitch converted their penalties, the referee performed a coin toss to determine the winners.

While Bangladesh edged India in possession in the first half, it was the Young Tigresses who were more incisive going forward. When Sulanjana Raul released Neha into acres of space before goalkeeper Swarna Rani Mandal swept the ball off her feet in the second minute, it was a sign of things to come.

Understandably, the final generated considerable interest in the local football circle. With the prospect of Bangladesh winning a back-to-back title looming large, a big crowd thronged the stadium long before the final started.

They came with drums and bugles, flags and banners. The festive mood of the partisan crowd, however, received a stunning blow when India took the lead off another well-constructed move as captain Nitu Linda showed exemplary vision to release Sibani behind the Bangladesh defence. The pacy winger was clever enough to dodge it the first time over the onrushing Swarna. Sibani could have added another just minutes later, as her half-volley sailed inches above the crossbar.

India, however, failed to defend the lead and conceded the equaliser well into the add-on time of the second half. Linda's headed clearance fell onto the path of Sagorika, who slotted it past Anika, a carbon copy of her goal against India in the group stage at exactly the same minute - 93rd..

Source : Sports

Correct Answer :   Etihad Airways

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Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings have added Etihad Airways as an official sponsor.

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Correct Answer :   Agriculture

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, 9th Feb 2024 announced that Dr. MS Swaminathan, known for his pivtol role in the Green Revolution, will be conferred the highest civilian award Bharat Ratna.

He said that Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity.

The Prime Minister posted on X :

“It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs.”

It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in… pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024

Source : PM India

Correct Answer :   Sarathi portal

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Agriculture minister Arjun Munda on Thursday (8th Feb 2024) launched portal 'Sarathi' that aims to provide a comprehensive suite of insurance products including PMFBY, tailored explicitly for farmers and rural population of India. To strengthen grievance redressal mechanism of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), the minister also launched the Krishi Rakshak portal and helpline number 14447 to enable farmers to lodge their concerns.

A learning material system about PMFBY, Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MIIS) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) was also launched for stakeholders implementing these schemes across the country.

After launching the three new initiatives, the agriculture minister said, "Our ministry is working together to turn India into a Viksit Bharat (developed nation). We are moving ahead with times adopting digital technology. The initiatives will surely benefit the farmers."

Ministers of state for agriculture Kailash Choudhary and Sobha Karanladje, agriculture secretary Manoj Ahuja, and joint secretary and CEO of PMFBY Ritesh Chauhan were also present at the event.

Sharing details about portal Sarathi (Sandbox for Agricultural and Rural Security, Technology and Insurance), PMFBY CEO said it will offer a digitized insurance journey, simplifying the process for farmers.

The portal will be a single-window platform for viewing, purchasing, and availing insurance products. The platform will have digital payment options and streamlined premium collection, effortless claim initiation, tracking and resolution besides user-friendly interfaces for stakeholders..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Naveen Tahiliani

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Tata Digital, the superapp from Tata Sons, on Tuesday (6th Feb 2024) announced the appointment of Naveen Tahilyani, as chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD).

Tahilyani replaces Pratik Pal, who was at the helm since the Tata group announced its foray into digital commerce and the creation of the Tata Neu supperapp.

Tahilyani is currently the CEO and MD of Tata AIA Life Insurance Company.

Tata Digital said Tahilyani comes with a strong understanding of the Indian consumer landscape and extensive experience in the financial services sector. He has a proven track record of driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and achieving operational excellence.

N. Chandrasekaran, chairman, Tata Sons, said : “Pratik has been successfully leading the company since its inception and led the Tata group’s foray into digital commerce. I would like to thank Pratik for his significant contribution to Tata Digital.”

He further added “I am delighted to welcome Naveen to Tata Digital. Naveen brings in a strong understanding of the consumer domain and has a very successful track record of leadership. I wish Naveen success in his new role.”

Naveen will take up his new role from February 19, 2024.

 The company also said Pal will continue to be with the company.

“Given Pratik’s background and strong contribution to Tata Digital, he will continue in Tata Digital to ensure continuity and contribute with his wealth of experience to the organisation,” said the statement.

Pal’s stepping down comes at a very crucial time, as the company is trying to make its mark in the digital ecommerce space.

Other than trying to gain market share, the firm has also seen several exits in the recent past. According to a report, it has 90 million Neupass members.

“Tata digital is yet to make its presence felt in the digital commerce space. Tahilyani brings the required consumer focus that is required in a digital commerce company,” said a source in the know..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Uttarakhand

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The Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Uttarakhand, Bill 2024, which seeks to “govern and regulate the laws related to marriage and divorce, successions, live-in relationships, and matters related thereto” was passed in the Assembly Wednesday (7th Feb 2024) following a two-day discussion. The Bill will now be sent to President Droupadi Murmu for her assent after which it will become a law.

Introduced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Tuesday (6th feb 2024), deliberations were held on the UCC Bill before the House approved it by a voice vote. Uttarakhand is now poised to become the first state to get a common law on marriage, divorce, land, property and inheritance for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. The code, however, will not apply to the Scheduled Tribes.

Although Goa is governed by a UCC (Portuguese Civil Code), the Assembly did not pass any law. The code was retained after its liberation in 1961.

“Today this special Bill, which was long awaited by the people of the country, was passed in the Vidhan Sabha of Devbhoomi. I express my gratitude to all the members of the Vidhan Sabha,” said Dhami and reiterated the UCC’s commitment to foster progress for everyone.

On Opposition’s allegation that the Bill is aimed at extracting political mileage before the Lok Sabha polls, he said the BJP had promised to implement the UCC in the run-up to the 2022 elections.

“This is the day of fulfilling that promise and should not be seen as anything else… This is not tushtikaran (appeasement) but santushtikaran (satisfaction). This is also the empowerment of women,” he said, emphasising on the exceptional nature of the UCC, calling it “a dream set to materialise in Uttarakhand and transcend ordinary legislative measures”.

He underscored the meticulous process undertaken by the five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court judge Justice (retd) Ranjana Prakash Desai, for around two years to prepare a comprehensive report. The panel held 43 dialogue sessions and 72 meetings statewide, as well as engagement with migrants. He exuded confidence that the UCC would rectify past wrongs and provide true equality while condemning the “divisive forces that undermine the Constitution’s principles”..

Source : Indian Express