Correct Answer :   May 1st

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Maharashtra Day, also known as Maharashtra Divas, is celebrated every year on May 1st to commemorate the formation of the state in 1960. Maharashtra was carved out of the Bombay Presidency and declared a separate state on this historic day. Present-day Gujarat constitutes the other part of the former Bombay state. The division was a result of the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, which aimed to reorganize states based on linguistic boundaries, following massive protests for linguistic states.

Maharashtra Diwas 2024 – Date :

Maharashtra Day, also known as Maharashtra Diwas, is celebrated annually on May 1st, marking the formation of the state of Maharashtra in 1960. This date holds immense importance for the Marathi people, serving as a reminder of their unity, resilience, and cultural heritage.

Maharashtra Foundation Day 2024 – History :

May 1st carries a dual significance as it is also celebrated as International Labour Day worldwide and Gujarat Day in India. The historical backdrop of Maharashtra’s formation is rooted in the linguistic reorganization of states following India’s independence. Bombay, comprising Marathi, Gujarati, Konkani, and Kutchi speakers, faced challenges due to linguistic disparities, leading to agitation for statehood based on linguistic lines.

The State Recognition Act of 1956 acknowledged Bombay as a multilingual state. However, the linguistic diversity caused disturbances and complexities. Movements like the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement and the Mahagujarat Movement emerged, demanding the division of Bombay into separate states for Marathi and Gujarati speakers. These movements culminated in the formation of Maharashtra and Gujarat on May 1, 1960.

Significance of Maharashtra Diwas :

Maharashtra Day is a moment for introspection, highlighting the state’s strides in agriculture, industry, and education. It represents the victory of linguistic identity and regional aspirations, emphasizing cultural unity amid diversity. The day is deeply meaningful, honoring Maharashtra’s cultural heritage and its contributions to literature, art, music, and social reform. Maharashtra Day fosters inclusivity and solidarity, uniting people from various backgrounds to celebrate the state’s achievements in a spirit of collective pride and appreciation.

How is Maharashtra Foundation Day Celebrated?

Maharashtra Day celebrations are marked by a variety of events and activities that showcase the state’s culture, traditions, and achievements. Flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programs, and exhibitions are organized across Maharashtra. These festivities serve as a platform to recognize and honor individuals who have contributed significantly to the state’s progress and development.

The day also witnesses gatherings at prominent landmarks like Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai, where people gather to participate in cultural events and pay homage to Maharashtra’s heritage. Traditional attire, folk dances like Lavani, and musical performances add vibrancy to the celebrations, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the people.

Correct Answer :   May 1st

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Gujarat Day, celebrated on May 1st, commemorates the formation of the vibrant state of Gujarat on May 1st, 1960. This annual occasion reflects Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage, resilience, and contributions to India’s cultural mosaic. With a history steeped in tradition and progress, Gujarat Day serves as a reminder of the state’s journey towards independence and its ongoing pursuit of growth and prosperity.

Gujarat Foundation Day 2024 – Date :

Gujarat Foundation Day, also known as Gujarat Day, is celebrated annually on May 1st to commemorate the formation of the state in 1960. This vibrant occasion marks a significant milestone in the history of Gujarat and is observed with great enthusiasm across the region.

Gujarat Foundation Day 2024 – History :

Gujarat was carved out of the Bombay State on May 1, 1960, following the enactment of the Bombay Reorganisation Act. This legislative move acknowledged the distinct cultural and linguistic identity of Gujarat, paving the way for its emergence as an independent state. Since then, Gujarat Foundation Day has been celebrated to honor the state’s rich heritage and achievements.

Significance of Gujarat Foundation Day :

Gujarat Foundation Day resonates deeply as it honors not just the state’s inception but also its dynamic culture, storied heritage, and impactful imprint on India’s cultural landscape. It stands as a poignant testament to Gujarat’s past, emphasizing its lasting legacy and the indomitable spirit of its populace. This celebration serves to remind us of Gujarat’s profound history while celebrating its ongoing contributions and the resilience ingrained within its people.

How is Gujarat Foundation Day Celebrated?

Gujarat Day is celebrated with great fervor, featuring a myriad of cultural programs and activities that showcase the state’s diverse heritage. Folk dances, traditional music performances, and vibrant processions are organized to highlight Gujarat’s cultural vibrancy and artistic traditions.

Special exhibitions and fairs are also held to showcase the art, crafts, and cuisine of Gujarat, providing a platform for artisans and craftsmen to display their talents. Additionally, government buildings and monuments are illuminated, adding to the festive ambiance and marking the occasion in a grand manner.

Gujarat Foundation Day 2024 – Wishes

* On this beautiful day, I pray Gujarat shines bright and brings even more success to our beloved state.
* Let’s wish Gujarat a year full of prosperity, progress, and success. Happy Gujarat Day.
* May this day bring unity, and joy, and achieve success. Wishing a Happy Gujarat Day 2024.
* Wishing a blessed and joyful Gujarat day to all Gujraties around the world.
* Happy Gujarat Day to all! May the state shine bright and reach new heights of development.
* Best wishes to Gujarat on its foundation day. May the state continue to produce leaders in business and politics.
* Cheers to the people of Gujrat! May the state achieve greater growth in the upcoming years.
* Happy Gujarat Day to all Gujratis! Warm greetings and best wishes from our side.
* Gujrat is a state of innovation and hard work. Let’s keep these values alive for a brighter future. Happy Gujarat Day.

Correct Answer :   Visakhapatnam

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India boasts a myriad of cities, each with its own unique identity. Some are known for their culinary delights, while others for their architecture or rich history. Among these, there are cities distinguished by special monikers that resonate globally. In this article, we delve into one such city in India known as the “City of Destiny.”

Which Indian City is Known as “City of Destiny”?

The “City of Destiny” in India refers to Visakhapatnam, situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Renowned for its coastal beauty and strategic importance, Visakhapatnam emerged as a prominent urban center. Originally named Waltair, the city came under British control in 1804. Notable for its industrial growth and political significance, it earned its moniker during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, further solidifying its global recognition.

Why is Vishakhapatnam Known as “City of Destiny”?

Visakhapatnam earned the moniker “City of Destiny” due to its significant historical, industrial, and political contributions. Once known as Waltair under British rule, it evolved into a vital port city. Its coastal location facilitated trade and commerce, attracting settlers and traders alike. The inauguration of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1970 cemented its industrial importance, leading to its renowned status as the “City of Destiny.”

Significance of “City of Destiny”

The title “City of Destiny” holds immense significance for Visakhapatnam, symbolizing its pivotal role in India’s growth and development. It encapsulates the city’s rich history, from its colonial past to its emergence as a thriving industrial hub. This moniker acknowledges Visakhapatnam’s strategic importance, both geopolitically and economically, highlighting its enduring influence on India’s trajectory and its status as a beacon of progress and opportunity.

The Story Behind the “City of Destiny”

Visakhapatnam, or Vizag as it is colloquially called, has a rich tapestry of stories woven into its history. Initially named Waltair, the city fell under complete British control in 1804. Situated by the sea, Visakhapatnam emerged as a vital port city, attracting traders and settlers alike.

Due to its coastal location, the city became a hub for trade and commerce, drawing many British residents who built bungalows along its shores. They often frequented the area for leisure, enjoying the serene natural vistas.

In 1962, India’s first female Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, graced Visakhapatnam with her presence to inaugurate the city’s first children’s park. At the time, she held ministerial positions in parliament, demonstrating the city’s political significance.

In 1970, as Indira Gandhi assumed the role of India’s Prime Minister, she revisited Visakhapatnam to inaugurate the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, further solidifying the city’s industrial prowess. It was during this time that Visakhapatnam earned its moniker as the “City of Destiny,” a title immortalized by the media, elevating its global recognition.

Correct Answer :   Dinesh Kumar

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Justice (retired) Dinesh Kumar took charge as the Presiding Officer of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) on 29 April 2024. The government of India appointed Justice Dinesh Kumar for a four-year term. Before taking over as the presiding officer of SAT, Justice Dinesh Kumar was the chief justice of the Karnataka High Court. He retired from the post in February 2024.

* The SAT has been functioning without a presiding officer for the last four months, as the last presiding officer, Justice Tarun Aggarwal, retired in December 2023.

* Dheeraj Bhatnagar also took charge as the technical member of the tribunal. He has been appointed for a term of four years or till he reaches the age of 67, whichever is earlier. Dheeraj Bhatnagar retired as principal chief commissioner of Income Tax Delhi. The other member of the three-member SAT is Meera Swarup.

About Securities Appellate Tribunal

The Securities Appellate Tribunal is a statutory body established in 1992 under the provisions of the Securities Exchange Board of India Act 1992.

Functions of SAT :

The Securities Appellate Tribunal was set up to replace the High Court. It hears appeals against the following financial regulators.

Composition of SAT :

* The SAT consists of a Presiding Officer and other judicial and technical members.

* The central government has the power to prescribe the total number of members of the SAT, which currently consists of three members, including the Presiding officer.

The Presiding Officer qualification;

* The person must be; Retired or a sitting judge of the Supreme Court

Or

* Chief Justice of a High Court

Judicial Member qualification

A person to be appointed for the post of judicial member must possess the following qualification:

Correct Answer :   April 27th, 2024

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Vinay Vir, a renowned journalist, publisher, and editor of the Daily Hindi Milap, passed away on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, at the age of 72. He was a champion for the Hindi language in South India and a respected figure in the journalism community.

A Champion for Hindi in the South :

Vinay Vir was known for his dedication to promoting Hindi journalism in southern India. His editing and management style were admired for enriching the language and elevating the Daily Hindi Milap to new heights. He was a true advocate for the growth of Hindi, and his contributions will be remembered whenever discussions about the language’s success in South India arise.

Born into a Legacy of Activism :

Vinay Vir came from a family with a strong history of activism. His parents, Yudhvir and Sita Yudhvir, were both prominent figures. Yudhvir was a journalist himself, and Sita Yudhvir served two terms as a Rajya Sabha member. Vinay Vir inherited their passion for making a positive impact.

A Scholar and Philanthropist :

Vinay Vir was not only a journalist but also a well-educated man. He studied at Badruka College and later became the secretary of the Yudhvir Foundation, established in his father’s memory. This foundation honors individuals who have achieved significant success in their respective fields.

A Guiding Light for the Daily Hindi Milap :

Vinay Vir took over the editorship of the Daily Hindi Milap in 1991 after his father’s passing. Under his leadership, the newspaper flourished. He was a respected figure within the organization and the journalism community as a whole.

Correct Answer :   IIT Guwahati

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In a collaborative effort between the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup Election District and the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, a groundbreaking 3D-printed dummy ballot unit has been unveiled. The initiative aims to enhance voter awareness and engagement, particularly among new voters and senior citizens, by providing a practical experience of the voting process.

Objective of the Dummy Ballot Unit :

The objective behind the development of the 3D-printed dummy ballot unit is to educate citizens about the complexities of voting, alleviate fears or concerns, and encourage greater voter turnout. By incorporating features such as sound and light indicators, the unit provides an interactive experience, boosting confidence in the electoral process.

Innovative Design and Materials :

Utilizing cutting-edge 3D printing technology and eco-friendly PLA material derived from corn starch, researchers at IIT Guwahati have crafted a sustainable and reusable device. Its design not only ensures environmental responsibility but also facilitates practical learning about voting procedures.

Endorsement and Impact :

Smt. Keerthi Jalli, Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup, Guwahati, Assam, lauded the initiative for its potential to familiarize individuals with the voting process and increase democratic participation. Prof. Ajeet Kumar of IIT Guwahati highlighted the unit’s significance in voter education, stressing its interactive features and biodegradable nature.

SVEEP: Empowering Voter Education :

The partnership between SVEEP and IIT Guwahati signifies a milestone in voter education initiatives. SVEEP, a programme by the Election Commission of India, aims to spread awareness about the electoral process through multi-approach strategies tailored to diverse socio-economic and cultural profiles. Through various communication mediums, including print, electronic, and social media, SVEEP endeavors to promote informed participation in elections.

Correct Answer :   April 30th

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Ayushman Bharat Diwas is celebrated annually on April 30th to raise awareness about the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and its goals. This year, it falls on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The day was established by the government to highlight the scheme’s objective of providing better access to affordable and quality healthcare services, especially for the underprivileged.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) :

Launched in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PM-JAY) is a healthcare scheme that offers free health insurance of Rs. 5 lakh to more than 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families every year. The scheme covers three days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days of post-hospitalization care, ensuring comprehensive support for patients.

Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage :

Under the PM-JAY scheme, eligible patients can receive first-rate medical care at thousands of government and private hospitals across the country. The scheme covers not only hospitalization expenses but also associated fees, such as overtime charges. While the central government fully funds the PM-JAY scheme, its implementation cost is shared between the central and state governments.

Empowering States and Creating Jobs :

The state governments have the right to provide cashless hospitalization to the beneficiaries of the PM-JAY scheme. Additionally, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has created a new job category called Ayushman Mitra, providing employment opportunities for young Indian citizens who are appointed by hospitals to assist beneficiaries.

Spreading Awareness and Ensuring Access :

The significance of Ayushman Bharat Diwas lies in its efforts to highlight the objectives of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and educate people about the advantages of this healthcare scheme. By celebrating this day, the government aims to ensure that eligible beneficiaries can avail of medical services up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year in any government-empaneled hospital across the country.

To fully benefit from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, beneficiaries must have comprehensive health insurance coverage. Those without insurance can explore options like Bajaj Markets, which offer advantages such as hassle-free renewal, cashless claim settlement, and reinstatement benefits.

Correct Answer :   Jalgaon

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India is a country of diverse cultures, traditions, beliefs, religions, knowledge, and languages, each city having its own unique characteristics. Some cities are renowned for their cuisine, while others are known for their fashion.

Additionally, many cities host local festivals that are celebrated nationwide, contributing to their distinctiveness and fostering the country’s identity on a global scale. In this series, we’ll delve into another city of India known by its nickname, shedding light on its significance.

Which Indian City is Known as “Banana City”?

Jalgaon, a city in Maharashtra, India, is famously known as the “Banana City.” It has earned this nickname due to its significant banana production, with an impressive annual yield of 70 tons per hectare. Jalgaon’s favorable geographical location, coupled with innovative agricultural techniques like drip irrigation, facilitates maximum banana cultivation. As a result, Jalgaon stands out as the leading producer of bananas in India.

Why is Jalgaon Known as the “Banana City”?

Jalgaon, situated in the western state of Maharashtra, India, is often referred to as the “Banana City.” It has earned this moniker due to its significant banana production. Every year, Jalgaon produces a staggering 70 tons of bananas per hectare, making it a major contributor to India’s banana supply.

Factors Behind High Banana Cultivation in Jalgaon :

Jalgaon’s geographical location in the Western Ghats, approximately 300 kilometers away, contributes to its dry climate. However, banana cultivation requires a humid environment. Despite this, Jalgaon utilizes drip irrigation techniques for banana farming. Additionally, it plants 1500 to 1600 banana plants per acre.

States Leading in Banana Cultivation :

Several states in India are renowned for banana cultivation, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Each of these states contributes significantly to India’s banana production, with Maharashtra being a prominent player.

Correct Answer :   India Today

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India Today Group's AI news anchor, Sana, has won the International News Media Association (INMA)'s 2024 Global Media Award for AI-led newsroom transformation.

* India Today Group has been selected as the best in South Asia for 'AI-led newsroom transformation', and the company's human-collaborative AI anchor, Sana, won first place among national brands for the 'best use of AI in customer-facing products'.

* “The 2024 Global Media Awards really highlighted how news media companies must think beyond the traditional to connect with their readers in this era of disruption and news avoidance. Unsurprisingly, this class of winning entries features some of the most innovative we’ve seen," executive director and CEO of INMA, Earl J Wilkinson, noted.

* The India Today Group introduced India’s First AI Anchor, Sana, in March 2023.

* "Sana boasts a diverse set of capabilities, excelling in multilingual communication with virtually no learning curve. Notably, it seamlessly transitions across a spectrum of topics and formats without succumbing to fatigue, thus addressing the dynamic demands of our newsroom," according to a statement by the India Today Group.

* "In an impressively brief timeframe, the AI Anchor Sana has earned widespread media acclaim and has become a catalyst for increased audience engagement and content differentiation, solidifying its position as a revolutionary force in the media landscape," the company spokesperson said.

* The 2024 Global Media Awards saw 771 multi-platform entries from 245 market-leading news media brands in 43 countries, competing in different sections such as innovation and best practices in news brands, optimising the use of media features, subscriptions, product, advertising, and commerce, Artificial Intelligence, and newsroom innovation.

* The awards ceremony was held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Krishna Ella

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The Indian Vaccine Manufacturers Association (IVMA) has announced the appointment of Krishna Ella, co-founder and executive chairman of Bharat Biotech, as its new president for the next two years, effective April 2024. Ella will take over the presidency from Adar C. Poonawala, who held the position from 2019 to March 2024.

Leadership Roles and Priorities :

For the current two-year term, the IVMA has appointed the following key roles :

Ensuring Equitable Access to Vaccines :

* In a statement, Ella emphasized the vital role of vaccines in global health and the IVMA’s mission to ensure that every individual, regardless of their location, has access to life-saving immunizations. He highlighted the importance of innovation, sustainability, and equity as the foundations of their collective vision.

* “I am pleased to serve IVMA along with its distinguished members and contribute to its vision to protect and enhance public health in India and the developing world,” Ella said.

Supporting Africa’s Public Health Vision :

* Ella urged IVMA members to support African nations’ public health vision and stressed the need to formulate policies and regulations in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). This, he believes, will help the industry become globally competitive and fortify India’s vision to boost the level playing field worldwide in preventive care.

Industry Appreciation and IVMA’s Mission :

* Expressing confidence in Ella’s leadership, Dr. Harshavardhan stated, “Dr. Ella’s expertise and entrepreneurial spirit are exactly what the vaccine industry needs to navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century.”

* The IVMA’s mission is to bring to the fore the Indian private sector human vaccine manufacturers’ concerns related to the progress and profitability of the industry. It also aims to streamline regulatory pathways and matters related to audits and inspections in consultations with the national Central Drugs Standard and Control Organisation.