Correct Answer :   $152.34

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India’s toy exports experienced a slight decline to USD 152.34 million in the fiscal year 2023-24, with limited benefits from quality control measures. Despite efforts to bolster the domestic industry and ensure product safety, exports did not see significant improvement.

Declining Export Trends :

Export figures dropped marginally from USD 153.89 million in the previous fiscal year to USD 152.34 million in 2023-24, as outlined by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). Despite a modest increase in exports from FY’2020 to FY’2022, the subsequent year witnessed a downturn.

Import Trends :

Conversely, imports rose to USD 64.92 million in 2023-24 from USD 62.37 million in the preceding year, indicating a persistent challenge in balancing trade dynamics.

GTRI’s Recommendations :

Comprehensive Industry Development Strategy : GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava emphasized the necessity for a holistic approach to foster the growth of India’s toy industry and bolster exports.

Domestic Ecosystem Strengthening : Developing a robust domestic ecosystem is paramount, alongside measures to encourage renowned global toy brands to establish manufacturing facilities within India’s borders.

Learning from Chinese Model : Drawing insights from China’s success, India should invest in research and development to enhance innovation in toy design and functionality, thus enhancing global competitiveness.

Specialized Manufacturing Hubs : Establishing specialized toy manufacturing hubs can significantly reduce costs and enhance efficiency, contributing to the overall competitiveness of the sector.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage : Modernizing traditional Indian toys while preserving their cultural significance can yield unique products that appeal to both domestic and international markets.

Promotion and Marketing Initiatives : Supporting small and medium enterprises in leveraging digital marketing and participating in international fairs are essential steps to establish global connections and promote Indian toys.

Attraction of International Manufacturers : Encouraging international toy giants like Hasbro, Mattel, Lego, Spin Master, and MGA Entertainment to consider establishing production facilities in India can reshape the global toy production landscape.

Reducing Import Dependency : Developing local production capabilities for critical toy-making materials and components will decrease dependency on imports, thus enhancing the self-sufficiency of the Indian toy industry.

Correct Answer :   $100

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India emerged as the global leader in remittances in 2022, receiving over $111 billion, surpassing the $100 billion mark for the first time. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) highlighted India, alongside Mexico, China, the Philippines, and France, as the top five remittance recipient countries.

Consistent Growth: From $53.48 Billion to $111.22 Billion

The UN’s World Migration Report 2024 underscored India’s consistent growth in remittances, noting a rise from $53.48 billion in 2010 to $111.22 billion in 2022. This significant increase showcases India’s pivotal role in the global remittance landscape.

Southern Asia’s Significance in Global Remittances :

The IOM emphasized Southern Asia’s importance as a major recipient of global remittances, attributed to its high proportion of migrant workers and emigrants. India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh all ranked among the top ten recipients worldwide, highlighting the sub-region’s reliance on labor migration.

Prominent Migration Corridors and Destination Countries :

While India ranks 13th as a destination country for immigrants, it features prominently in various international migration corridors, including India-United Arab Emirates, India-Saudi Arabia, and Bangladesh-India, all of which are among the top 10. This indicates India’s significant role in global labor migration patterns.

Correct Answer :   8th May 2024

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Film-maker Sangeeth Sivan breathed his last on 8th May 2024.

The Kya Kool Hai Hum director was undergoing treatment for urinary infection at the Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. On Wednesday (8th May 2024), he suffered a cardiac arrest, his brother Sanjeev Sivan confirmed.

Sangeeth Sivan, the eldest son of photographer-cinematographer Sivan, is survived by his wife Jayashree, and children, Sanjana and Shanthanu.

Correct Answer :   May 8th

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Observed annually on May 8th, World Thalassaemia Day aims to raise global awareness about this genetic disorder, support those affected and their caregivers, promote research for a cure, and dispel myths surrounding the disease.

This year’s (2024) theme is : “Empowering Lives, Embracing Progress: Equitable and Accessible Thalassaemia Treatment for All’’.

Understanding Thalassaemia :

Thalassaemia is a genetic disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin, leading to a shortage of red blood cells and anaemia. While carriers of the thalassaemia gene may lead normal lives, those with thalassaemia major require repeated blood transfusions and are susceptible to various infections, organ complications, and potential organ failure.

Origins of World Thalassaemia Day :

In 1994, the Founder of the Thalassemia International Federation (TIF), Panos Englezos, established World Thalassaemia Day in memory of his son George, who lost his life to the disease. The day was created to unite efforts in fighting thalassaemia, remembering those who succumbed to it, and finding a cure.

Global Efforts and Support :

Over the years, patient support groups, healthcare professionals, and advocacy organizations worldwide have championed the cause, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals living with thalassaemia and their families, including the need for regular blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and access to quality healthcare.

Correct Answer :   Manipur

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Manipur government launched the "School on Wheels" initiative aiming to impart education to students sheltered in relief camps in the state following the year long ethnic strife in the state. The state government has closed schools and colleges following the severe hailstorm on Sunday (5th May 2024).

Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey on Sunday (5th May 2024) launched the "School on Wheels" initiative.

The initiative, inaugurated by Governor Anusuiya Uikey, entails a mobile educational setup equipped with a library, computers, and sports items, accompanied by a teacher, to visit various camps.

Addressing Educational Needs Amidst Crisis :

The “School on Wheels” initiative addresses the educational gap caused by the year-long ethnic conflict and subsequent displacement, particularly impacting the student population of Manipur. Governor Uikey emphasizes the significance of reaching out to students in relief camps and providing them with essential education during this challenging period.

Empathy and Support for Displaced Individuals :

Acknowledging the plight of displaced individuals, Governor Uikey expresses her empathy and pledges support by directing the state authorities to facilitate a process for the permanent settlement of those residing in relief camps. This comprehensive approach aims to not only provide immediate educational support but also work towards long-term solutions for the affected communities.

Correct Answer :   Sanjeev Nautiyal

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Ujjivan Small Finance Bank said that Reserve bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Sanjeev Nautiyal as the managing director (MD) & chief executive officer (CEO) of the bank for the period of 3 years with effect from 1 July 2024.

He will join the Bank much prior to his taking charge as the MD & CEO and be designated as the President in the interim.

Sanjeev Nautiyal holds a Bachelors degree in Arts and a Masters degree in Business Administration. He is also a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers. He is a banker with over three decades of extensive strategic domain expertise in retail, SME, financial inclusion, operations, HR, international banking, and treasury.

He earlier held significant roles as deputy managing director, financial inclusion & micro markets, SBI and MD & CEO, SBI Life Insurance. He currently is the independent director of Life Insurance Corporation and acts as an advisory in various organizations.

Banavar Anantharamaiah Prabhakar, Chairman, Ujjivan SFB said, I am delighted that RBI has approved the appointment of Mr. Nautiyal. I welcome him to the Ujjivan family. He is a strategic retail banker with an all-round experience in both the domestic and international markets.

His expertise across the banking spectrum in creating and nurturing strong institutions, with customer at the forefront, makes him the natural choice to lead Ujjivan into the future. His endearing leadership skills of innovation, collaboration, and teamwork fits in with the values practised at Ujjivan. 22,000+ Ujjivanites join me in wishing him the very best and success in this journey..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Sujai Raina

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Visa, the global digital payments platform, announced on Tuesday (7th May 2024) that it has appointed Sujai Raina as the new Country Manager for India. In this role, Raina will be responsible for leading and executing Visa’s strategic initiatives in the Indian market, partnering with clients and the broader payments ecosystem.

Additionally, Sandeep Ghosh will continue in his role as Group Country Manager for India and South Asia, overseeing Visa’s operations in India and other markets across the subcontinent, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.

Sujai Raina’s Responsibilities :

* As the Country Manager for India, Sujai Raina will spearhead Visa’s business development efforts in the country. In addition to his new role, he will continue to lead business development initiatives for Visa in India.

* Raina joined Visa in 2020 and previously served as the Vice President and Head of Business Development for India.

India: A Critical Growth Market for Visa :

* Visa recognizes India as a crucial growth market, and this leadership appointment reflects the company’s commitment to the Indian market and its potential for scaling digital payments through innovative solutions tailored to its unique needs.

* The announcement underscores Visa’s dedication to strengthening its presence and fortifying its leadership team in India, enabling the company to capitalize on the rapidly evolving digital payments landscape and cater to the market’s specific requirements effectively.

Driving Digital Transformation in Payments :

* With a strong leadership team in place, Visa aims to drive the digital transformation of payments in India. By leveraging its global expertise and collaborating with local partners, the company seeks to introduce innovative solutions that enhance the convenience, security, and accessibility of digital payments for consumers and businesses alike.

* This strategic move positions Visa to navigate the dynamic Indian market effectively, fostering partnerships and delivering tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of the digital payments ecosystem in the country.

Correct Answer :   Himachal Pradesh

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Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is preparing to start construction of Shinku-La Tunnel. This tunnel will be constructed for traffic movement under the Shinku-La Pass.

It is situated on the Nimu-Padam-Darcha road link. The Shinku-La Pass is located at an altitude of 16,580 ft between the Lahaul Valley of Himachal and the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh.  

Correct Answer :   May 8th

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May 8th is observed as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, a global day to celebrate the uniqueness and unity of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. This day is a time to recognize the spirit of humanitarianism and the individuals who make a difference in their communities.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, Theme :

The theme of this year’s (2024) World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, Keeping Humanity Alive, is a call to celebrate those who give their time, and sometimes their lives, to ease the suffering of others and protect their inherent human dignity.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, History and Significance :

World Red Cross Day originates from the significant events following World War I, when the Red Cross made significant contributions to fostering peace. The day was implemented in 1946 and has been observed annually on May 8th since 1948, commemorating the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The day holds immense significance in the realm of human rights, promoting the Red Cross’s motto, “Per Humanitatem ad Pacem,” which translates to “With humanity, towards peace.” It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the organization’s principles, mission, and activities, reminding us of the importance of humanity, compassion, and solidarity during times of crisis.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, Celebrations and Activities :

To commemorate World Red Cross Day, national and local Red Cross chapters organize special events and activities, such as :


These activities aim to show support for the Red Cross’s crucial work in providing humanitarian assistance and promoting humanitarian values worldwide, particularly in conflict zones and regions affected by natural disasters.

Honouring Humanitarian Efforts :

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day serves as a reminder of the tireless efforts of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in alleviating suffering and promoting compassion, solidarity, and humanity during times of great need. It is an opportunity for individuals and communities to honor the selfless work of these organizations and their volunteers, who put their lives on the line to help those in need, regardless of their race, religion, or nationality.

Correct Answer :   Bajaj Auto

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Bajaj Auto, led by Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj, is all set to introduce a groundbreaking innovation in the world of motorcycles. Amidst soaring petrol prices, the company is gearing up to launch the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle on June 18, 2024. This move aims to provide consumers with a cost-effective alternative for daily commuting, promising lower running costs compared to traditional petrol-powered bikes.

Key Features and Specifications :

Prototype Details : The prototype of Bajaj’s CNG motorcycle, which has been spotted multiple times during testing, resembles a typical commuter bike. It features halogen turn indicators, telescopic forks, and a monoshock unit for suspension.

Design Elements : Observers have noted the presence of multi-spoke alloy wheels, a long single-piece seat, and a combination of disc and drum braking system, indicating a focus on comfort and practicality.

Target Market : The upcoming CNG bike appears to target the budget commuter segment, aligning with Bajaj’s strategy of catering to the mass market.

Trademark Applications : Bajaj has filed trademark applications for potential names such as Glider, Marathon, Trekker, and Freedom, providing insights into the branding direction for this innovative motorcycle.

Engine Specifications : While specifics regarding the engine remain undisclosed, Bajaj may either modify an existing petrol engine for CNG use or develop an entirely new CNG engine, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

Implications :

The introduction of the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle by Bajaj Auto could mark a significant milestone in the automotive industry, offering consumers an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative for urban commuting. This move not only aligns with the global shift towards sustainable transportation but also reflects Bajaj’s commitment to innovation and addressing market demands.