Correct Answer :   January 26

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International Customs Day is observed annually on January 26. This tradition dates back to 1953, when the Customs Cooperation Council (CCC), now known as the World Customs Organization (WCO), designated this date to honour the work of customs officials. The decision was made during a session inaugurated in Brussels, Belgium, with representatives from 17 European countries. Since its renaming in 1994, the WCO has grown to include 182 member states, each committed to international cooperation in customs matters.

Every year, on January 26, we celebrate International Customs Day, a special day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the crucial role played by customs agencies worldwide. This day highlights the importance of their work in facilitating the smooth flow of goods across international borders, ensuring both safety and compliance with various regulations. As we approach International Customs Day 2024, it’s important to understand the significance of this day and the vital functions customs agencies perform.

Significance of International Customs Day in India :

In India, the Central Board of Excise and Customs is responsible for managing customs duties and facilitating international trade. The celebration of International Customs Day in India and around the world serves to uplift the leadership, guidance, and support provided to customs administrations. It’s a day to acknowledge their hard work and dedication in ensuring the smooth and secure transportation of goods across borders.

Theme of International Customs Day 2024 :

This year’s theme, “Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose,” emphasizes the evolving nature of customs work and the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders. The theme reflects the need for customs agencies to adapt to new challenges and technologies while maintaining strong partnerships with traditional allies.

Understanding the Role of Customs Agencies :

Customs agencies are tasked with a multitude of responsibilities, including the inspection and clearance of goods, collection of tariffs, prevention of smuggling, and enforcement of trade laws. They play a critical role in safeguarding a country’s economic interests, protecting its citizens from harmful substances, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.

Challenges Faced by Customs Departments :

Customs officials often face significant challenges in their work. These include dealing with vast quantities of goods, identifying contraband, preventing illegal trade, and adapting to rapidly changing technologies and global trade practices. Despite these challenges, customs agencies strive to balance facilitating legitimate trade and enforcing regulations.

Celebrating International Customs Day :

One of the best ways to celebrate International Customs Day is by educating ourselves about the roles and responsibilities of customs departments. Understanding the advantages and risks involved in their work helps us appreciate the complexity and significance of their job. Public awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops can be organized to spread knowledge about the customs process and its impact on global trade.

Correct Answer :   NATO

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The U.S. Navy dock landing ship Gunston Hall left port on Wednesday (24th Jan 2024) to mark the first movement for the largest NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) exercise since the Cold War, officials said.

WHAT IS HAPPENING :

* Some 90,000 troops from the United States and fellow NATO allied nations are due to join the Steadfast Defender 2024 drills that will run through May.

* More than 50 ships from aircraft carriers to destroyers will take part, as well as more than 80 fighter jets, helicopters and drones and at least 1,100 combat vehicles including 133 tanks and 533 infantry fighting vehicles.

* The drills will rehearse NATO's execution of its regional plans, the first defence plans the alliance has drawn up in decades, detailing how it would respond to a Russian attack.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT :

* NATO did not mention Russia by name in its announcement. But its top strategic document identifies Russia as the most significant and direct threat to NATO members' security.

* The exercise comes at an important moment after Russia's invasion of Ukraine started the deadliest war on European soil in more than 70 years.

KEY QUOTES :

* "#NATO today launched its biggest military exercise since 1988 with 90,000 personnel taking part in drills across the North Atlantic and Europe," Matthias Eichenlaub, a NATO spokesperson, said on Twitter.

* "The departure of the @USNavy's Gunston Hall from Norfolk marked the (official) start of #SteadfastDefender24."

RUSSIAN RESPONSE :

* The scale of NATO's Steadfast Defender 2024 exercises mark an "irrevocable return" of the alliance to Cold War schemes, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told the state RIA news agency in remarks published on Sunday..

Source : Reuters

Correct Answer :   Goa

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Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, inaugurated the National Consultative Workshop on ‘Status of Devolution to Panchayats’ at Goa on 24th Jan 2024.

Director General, IIPA, Shri Surendra Nath Tripathi, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Smt Mamta Varma and other senior officers were present on the occasion.

In his inaugural address, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj shared insightful thoughts on various aspects of Devolution to Panchayats emphasizing the significance of a shared vision, common goal and collaborative action towards advancing the process of Devolution to Panchayats for strengthening of Panchayati Raj system in the country.

Underlining the impact of every self-reliant Panchayat contributing to a self-reliant nation, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj said that Panchayats which are the institutions of local self-governance in rural areas, have immense potential towards building our country. Underlining the value of Devolution Index, he added that the capacity of Panchayati Raj Institutions need to be developed financially and human resource-wise to match with the functions expected from them.

Empowering Panchayats and strengthening Panchayati Raj system are not just about local self-governance; it’s about fostering self-reliance and sustainability as a self-sufficient Panchayat is a cornerstone for building a Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) and Viksit (developed) India, added Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar delivered address on the Introduction to the National Consultative Workshop, outlining the well-designed technical sessions and the Workshop's vital objective – contributing to the roadmap for Panchayati Raj.

Technical Session on Status of the Devolution to Panchayats in States was chaired by Shri Vivek Bharadwaj where presentation on draft report on the study ‘Status of Devolution to Panchayats’ was made by IIPA and discussion on the status of devolution to the Panchayats in the States based on six dimensions, i.e. Framework, Functions, Finances, Functionaries, Capacity building and Accountability took place.

The inaugural day of the National Consultative Workshop also had detailed discussions and experience sharing sessions on Devolution of Functions and Finances to Panchayats : Experience Sharing by States, and Devolution of Functionaries and Capacity Building to Panchayats. States like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana made detailed presentation on the subject which was highly appreciated by all.

The National Consultative Workshop is a vital platform for in-depth deliberations on the findings and recommendations of the draft Study Report. The draft report, prepared by IIPA, reflects a thorough analysis of the current status and potential enhancements in the devolution process to Panchayats. The workshop aims to gather diverse perspectives, insights, and recommendations to enrich the final report and pave the way for Ranking of States on Devolution to Panchayats. The Additional Chief Secretaries/ Principal Secretaries / Secretaries in-charge of Panchayati Raj Department of States and UTs and representatives of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and NITI Aayog are participating in two-day National Consultative Workshop..


Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Rs 8,500 Crore

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The Union Cabinet, on January 24, 2024, gave the green light to a groundbreaking Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme, allocating Rs 8,500 crores for Coal Gasification Projects. This strategic move is a pivotal step towards realizing the government’s ambitious mission to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030. The initiative is set to revolutionize the energy sector, particularly with the active involvement of major players like Coal India, GAIL (India), and BHEL.

Viability Gap Funding Framework :

The VGF scheme is designed with precision, dividing the funding into three categories. Government-owned companies, spearheading three key projects, are set to receive a substantial grant of Rs 4,050 crores. Simultaneously, bids will be invited from both public and private entities for the second segment, with a significant Rs 3,850 crores in VGF. The remaining Rs 600 crores are earmarked for small-scale plants and ‘demonstration projects.’ Crucially, each project in every category is eligible for a VGF benefit capped at 15 percent of its capital cost.

Coal Gasification: A Cleaner Alternative :

In the realm of coal gasification, where coal transforms into synthesis gas (syngas), lies the potential to mitigate environmental impact. This thermo-chemical process facilitates the production of various chemical constituents such as synthetic natural gas, dimethyl ether, ammonium nitrate, and methanol. The versatility of these products makes coal gasification a cleaner alternative to traditional fuel combustion.

Key Players and Joint Ventures :

The Cabinet’s approval extends beyond mere funding. Coal India, GAIL (India), and BHEL are set to play pivotal roles in the coal-to-chemical landscape. Joint ventures between Coal India and GAIL (India) will focus on a coal-to-synthetic natural gas project, with a total project cost of Rs 13,052 crores. Simultaneously, the collaboration between Coal India and BHEL will center on a coal-to-ammonium nitrate project, with an investment of Rs 11,782 crores. Both projects come with a variation of 25 percent in costs, showcasing the government’s commitment to diversify and innovate in the energy sector.

India’s Energy Independence :

Coal gasification emerges as a game-changer, with the potential to reduce India’s coal import bill significantly. The technology holds the key to substituting imports worth Rs 1.3 lakh crores, offering products like methanol for petrol blending, Di-Methyl Ether (DME) for LPG blending, ammonia for urea manufacturing, ammonium nitrate, and contributing to steel-making by replacing imported coking coal in blast furnaces while producing Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG).

Correct Answer :   Bhopal

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The 63rd gathering of the Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) took place in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, with Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, presiding. Notable participants included Shri Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, and Shri Janardan Prasad, Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

Discussion on Annual Programme 2024-25 :

The proposed Annual Programme for the ensuing Field Season year 2024-25 was presented for discussion. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) outlined approximately 1055 scientific programs, including :

Collaborative Efforts and Partnerships :

Collaboration with universities, agencies, and sponsorship from various authorities including IITs, NGRI, DRDO, NRSC-ISRO, and others was emphasized. Exploration projects through NMET funding were urged for implementation by State Governments.

National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR) Portal :

A two-hour session was dedicated to briefing stakeholders about the NGDR portal, designed to host pre-competitive baseline geological and mineral exploration data. The portal utilizes cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) for enhanced mineral exploration.

Exhibition on “Mining and Beyond” :

An exhibition themed “Mining and Beyond” was inaugurated, showcasing achievements and best practices of entities like GSI, PSUs, major mining companies, private exploration agencies, startups, and the Madhya Pradesh Government. Notable participants included PSUs like MOIL, HCL, NALCO, MECL, and mining companies like Hindalco, BALCO, and Tata Steel.

Reconstitution of CGPB Committee :

The CGPB Committee was revamped into 12 theme-based groups, aiming to facilitate wider participation and interaction with GSI. This reconstitution aims to enhance coordination between Central and State-level stakeholders and encourage the functioning of State Geological Programming Boards (SGPB).

About Geological Survey of India :

The Geological Survey of India (GSI), established in 1851, has evolved into a repository of geo-science information and a geo-scientific organization of international repute. Its functions include creating and updating national geoscientific information, mineral resource assessment, ground surveys, air-borne and marine surveys, and multidisciplinary geoscientific studies.

Correct Answer :   OnePlus India

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Reliance Jio Infocomm and Chinese consumer electronics manufacturer OnePlus announced a strategic partnership with the aim of boosting 5G technologies across India.

This collaboration aims to bring together the technological innovation and infrastructure of Jio and OnePlus to unlock new experiences for users in the 5G field, both companies said.

Under the terms of the partnership, both companies will set up a state-of-the-art 5G Innovation lab to bolster these initiatives. The 5G new lab will serve as a hub for testing and developing new technologies, both companies said.

“We believe in pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and this partnership with Jio is a testament to that commitment. This partnership signifies a bold step towards the future of connectivity, where innovation knows no bounds. Together, Jio and OnePlus India are set to redefine the 5G landscape in the country,” said a OnePlus spokesperson.

“Today, Jio True 5G covers the entire country with its network. 85% of the entire 5G deployment in India is made by Jio. It is time to unfold magical 5G experiences for our users and this partnership with OnePlus is a step in that direction,” said a Jio spokesperson.

Reliance Jio Infocomm recently completed the rollout of 5G technology in India, local press reported, citing the company’s chairman, Mukesh Ambani. Ambani also claimed that the telco achieved the fastest 5G rollout globally.

Reliance Jio Infocomm has been rapidly expanding its 5G network using Standalone (SA) architecture since October 2022.

Reliance Jio had secured a mix of wireless spectrum for 5G across the 700 MHz, 3.5 GHz and 26 GHz bands. Jio is the only Indian operator with spectrum in the 700 MHz band.

In September 2023, local press reports confirmed that Reliance Jio Infocomm was seeking to raise up to $2 billion in loans with French bank BNP Paribas as lead arranger of the initiative that will help fund the purchase of 5G network gear from Swedish vendor Ericsson.

Jio also said that its 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service, dubbed JioAirFiber, will have pan-India coverage within the first half of 2024, according to Indian press reports.

The carrier’s 5G FWA service is already available in over 4,000 towns and cities across India.

The telco had announced the launch of its 5G FWA service in eight cities across the country in September 2023. The service was initially launched in the cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai and Pune..

Source : RCR Wireless

Correct Answer :   Alabama

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Kenneth Smith, a convicted murderer, has become the first person in the United States to be executed by nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place in Alabama, introduces a new method intended to be the most painless and humane alternative to the previously predominant lethal injection.

The Pioneering Execution with Nitrogen Gas :

Kenneth Smith, aged 58, was pronounced dead at 8:25 pm on January 25, 2024 at Holman Correctional Facility in Alabama, marking a significant shift in execution methods. Smith underwent the unique process of breathing pure nitrogen gas through a face mask, highlighting Alabama’s departure from the conventional lethal injection method.

Alabama’s Embrace of Nitrogen Gas Execution :

Alabama officials have championed the new execution protocol as “the most painless and humane method of execution known to man.” This move has positioned Alabama as a trailblazer in adopting nitrogen gas for capital punishment, joining the ranks of only a few states to approve this controversial method.

Kenneth Smith’s Crime and Alabama’s Justice :

Smith’s execution is linked to the murder-for-hire killing of 45-year-old Elizabeth Sennett in March 1988. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed that Smith’s execution was a pursuit of justice for this heinous crime. The methodological shift to nitrogen gas reflects Alabama’s commitment to evolving approaches to capital punishment.

Legal Controversies Surrounding Smith’s Case :

Smith’s legal journey involved the overturning of his 1989 conviction, followed by a subsequent conviction in 1996. Despite a jury recommending a life sentence by 11-1, a judge overrode the decision and sentenced him to death. This case history underscores the legal complexities that accompanied Smith’s path to execution.

Closure and Reflection :

Governor Ivey expressed hope that the execution provided closure for Elizabeth Sennett’s family after more than 30 years of dealing with the loss. In a final statement, Smith remarked that Alabama’s choice of execution method was a step backward for humanity. The execution process lasted approximately 22 minutes, during which Smith exhibited signs of distress before succumbing to nitrogen gas.

Correct Answer :   Zomato

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Zomato Payments Private Limited, the subsidiary of popular food delivery platform Zomato, has obtained the much-coveted payment aggregator (PA) license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The approval, dated January 24, 2024, empowers Zomato Payments to facilitate ecommerce transactions through its platform.

Background and Strategic Moves :

Following its incorporation on August 4, 2021, Zomato Payments aimed to function as a payment aggregator and issuer of pre-paid instruments. This move aligns with Zomato’s strategy to diversify and reduce reliance on external payment apps. Last year, Zomato collaborated with ICICI Bank to introduce its Unified Payments Interface (UPI) offering, Zomato Pay, with the goal of minimizing dependency on platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm.

Industry Landscape and Competition :

With the RBI nod, Zomato joins the league of esteemed players such as Tata Pay, Razorpay, and Cashfree, who have also secured the coveted payments license. Zomato’s approach to providing in-house payment solutions not only enhances user experience but also enables cost savings by circumventing third-party app charges, a strategy mirrored in its collaboration with ICICI Bank.

Diversified Offerings and Past Partnerships :

Zomato’s foray into financial services includes not only payment solutions but also collaborations with banks for co-branded credit cards, exemplified by its previous partnership with RBL Bank, albeit terminated in May last year. Beyond food and grocery transactions, Zomato Pay extends to payments at select restaurants, offering users varied payment options like cards, net banking, and UPI.

Correct Answer :   January 25

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National Tourism Day in India is celebrated every year on 25 January. The day is observed to create awareness among people about the benefits of tourism for the economy of the country. It was initiated by the government of India with an aim to promote natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich heritage. India is a beautiful country with amazing tourist attractions like rivers, mountains, beaches, valleys, historical sites, and many more. National Tourism Day strives to draw the attention of tourists to boost the economy of the country.

National Tourism Day aims to honour the people working in the travel and tourism sectors who work hard in fostering tourism and therefore help and support local economies.

What is the Theme of National Tourism Day 2024 in India?

The theme of National Tourism Day 2024 in India is "Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories."

History and Significance of National Tourism Day :

According to reports, the first National Tourism Day in India was celebrated in 1948. The main significance of celebrating this day is to promote tourism in India for the economical growth and development. The day creates an awareness among people about the cultural, social, and economical aspects of tourism. National Tourism Day in India endeavors to promote sustainable tourism practices to help the local communities. On the occasion of National Tourism Day various activities are performed in the country to highlight the amazing tourist destinations of the country along with their cultural significance.

The promotion and development of tourism in the country is being taken care of by the ministry of tourism. Since tourism is critical for the economic development of the country, the ministry of tourism takes all necessary measures to improve the tourism at central, state, and public levels..

Source : The Quint

Correct Answer :   January 25

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The National Voters’ Day is celebrated every year in India on January 25 to encourage the country’s voters to participate in the electoral process. This year (2024), it is the 14th edition which is being celebrated. In the vibrant democracy of India, where every vote is a testament to the aspirations and choices of its people, National Voters’ Day holds a special place.

As the world’s largest democracy, the importance of each vote in India cannot be overstated. This day serves as a celebration of public consciousness and the immense power vested in the electorate.

Historical Background- National Voters’ Day :

Initiated in 2011, National Voters’ Day was established by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to address a growing concern. The then-Information and Broadcasting Minister, Ambika Soni, highlighted the increasing apathy among new voters, particularly those who had recently turned 18, towards enrolling in electoral rolls. In response, under the leadership of then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the government approved a proposal from the law ministry to kickstart a campaign aimed at resolving this issue. The date, January 25, was chosen to coincide with the founding anniversary of the ECI in 1950, symbolizing a renewed commitment to democratic participation.

Significance of National Voters’ Day 2024 :

The significance of National Voters’ Day cannot be overstated. It is a day that emphasizes the importance of voting as a fundamental democratic right and responsibility. A high voter turnout is indicative of a healthy democracy, reflecting the people’s active participation in choosing their leaders and holding them accountable. The celebration of this day is vital as it educates and informs the public about the power and responsibility that comes with voting.

National Voters’ Day 2024- Theme :

Dedicated to the voters, the NVD 2024 theme – ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For Sure’ is a continuation of last year’s theme. The President of India Droupadi Murmu will be the Chief Guest at the national function being organised in New Delhi this year by the Election Commission of India and Union Minister of State for Law and Justice (Independent Charge), Arjun Ram Meghwal, will grace the function as Guest of Honour.

The event will also be attended by Heads and representatives of Election Management bodies viz. Maldives, Philippines, Russia, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan.