Correct Answer :   Justice Prasanna B Varale

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Karnataka High Court Chief Justice "Prasanna B Varale" on Thursday (25th Jan 2024) took oath as judge of the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud administered the oath of office to Justice Varale in a function on the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi.

With Justice Varale's appointment, the top court has now attained its full strength of 34 judges, including the Chief Justice of India. The top court was short of one judge after the retirement of justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul on December 25.

Justice Varale's appointment as a Supreme Court judge was announced by the Ministry of Law and Justice on Wednesday (24th Jan 2024).

The Supreme Court collegium on 19 January 2024 recommended justice Varale’s elevation noting the judge has acquired considerable experience as a judge of the Bombay high court where he was appointed in 2008, and as the chief justice of the Karnataka high court.

“While recommending his name, the collegium has taken into consideration the fact that among the high court judges, he is the senior-most Judge belonging to a scheduled caste and the only chief justice belonging to a scheduled caste among the chief justices of high courts across the country,” the collegium, which also comprised justices Sanjiv Khanna, Bhushan R Gavai, Surya Kant and Aniruddha Bose, said in its resolution on the day.

With Justice Varale’s elevation, the Supreme Court will for the first time have three judges from the Scheduled Caste category, including justices Gavai and CT Ravikumar.

Who is Prasanna Bhalachandra Varale?

* Justice Varale was born on 23 June 1962 at Nipani in Karnataka. He graduated in Arts and Law from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University. He enrolled as an Advocate in 1985.

* He was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court in July 2008 and became a permanent judge three years later.

* Varale served as a judge in the Bombay High Court for a tenure of 14 years and was subsequently appointed as the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court in October 2022.

* Distinguished as the sole Chief Justice among High Courts hailing from the Scheduled Caste, he proudly asserts his birth in a family "blessed by Dr B R Ambedkar.".

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Emmanuel Macron

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India will be celebrating its 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024 and for this year’s grand Republic Day Parade at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi, the President of France, "Emmanuel Macron" is the Chief Guest.

The parade will also be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, the Union Ministers, Chief Ministers and the Heads of Defence Staff among other dignitaries. Ahead of the Republic Day 2024, take a look at the complete schedule of PM Modi and the Chief Guest Emmanuel Macron.

Republic Day 2024 Theme : 

The themes for the Republic Day 2024 this year, are ‘Viksit Bharat’ ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka’ (Developed India and India Mother of Democracy).

Republic Day 2024 Full Schedule :

As mentioned earlier, the Republic Day Parade 2024 in New Delhi will be attended by President Murmu, PM Modi and other important dignitaries of the country. Take a look at the complete schedule of the Republic Day..

7:30 AM is the Unveiling Of National Pride : The morning of Republic Day begins with the unfurling of the National Flag of India with the National Anthem; a moment that invokes the feeling of nationalism and pride for the country in each person.

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM is the Dignitary Arrival and their Grand Welcome : The Chief Guest of Republic Day 2024, President of France Emmanuel Macron will be given a grand ceremonial welcome; this moment will be a significant diplomatic moment for both India and France.

10:30 AM is the Commencement Of Parade : The much-awaited Republic Day Parade 2024 will begin at 10:30 AM, showcasing the principles of democracy, unity in diversity and cultural vibrance, that truly represent India.

Republic Day 2024: Parade Timings, Venue, Route : The Republic Day Parade 2024 will take place at 10:30 AM at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The route for the parade goes from Vijay Chowk to Kartavya Path with vibrant tableaus representing each state.

Correct Answer :   Microsoft

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Microsoft's, opens new tab stock market value crossed the $3 trillion milestone for the first time on Wednesday (24th Jan 2024), retaining its place as the world's second most valuable company, just behind Apple, opens new tab.

Microsoft and Apple shares have been vying for the top spot as the most capitalized stock on Wall Street since the start of the year, with the iPhone maker briefly losing its crown to the software giant earlier in January 2024.

Shares of Microsoft hit a record high of $405.63, up 1.7 per cent, enabling it to breach the $3 trillion market capitalization level. But it later closed at $402.56, valuing Microsoft at $2.99 trillion, just below the threshold price of $403.65 that would have kept it above $3 trillion.

Apple's shares pared earlier gains and closed down 0.35 per cent at $194.50, giving it a market value of $3 trillion, according to LSEG data.

Backed by its investment in ChatGPT maker OpenAI, Microsoft is widely seen as a frontrunner in the race for market dominance in the rollout of generative artificial intelligence (AI) among other tech heavyweights, including Google owner Alphabet (GOOGL.O), opens new tab, Amazon.com (AMZN.O), opens new tab, Oracle (ORCL.N), opens new tab, and Facebook owner Meta Platforms (META.O), opens new tab.

Using OpenAI's technology, Microsoft has rolled out newer versions of its flagship productivity software products as well as its Bing search engine, which is expected to better compete with Google's dominant search offering.

Apple, on the other hand, is facing slowing demand for its iPhones, particularly in China, where the company is offering customers rare discounts to boost sales amid stiff competition from homegrown rivals such as Huawei Technologies (HWT.UL).

"I think it's AI optimism for Microsoft," said Stifel analyst Brad Reback, adding that Apple doesn't seem to have the same "clear AI story" coupled with concerns about iPhone sales growth rates and penetration.

The 54 analysts covering Microsoft's stock have a median price target of $425, up from $415 a month ago, and their average recommendation is "buy", according to LSEG data.

Buoyed by AI optimism, Microsoft shares gained nearly 57 per cent in 2023 and are up 7 per cent this year. Apple's stock rose by 48 per cent last year and is up about 1 per cent year-to-date.

Wall Street's run-up to record highs will be put to the test in the coming weeks as megacap US technology-related companies begin reporting results..

Source : Zeebiz

Correct Answer :   Zydus

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New Delhi, Zydus Lifesciences on Thursday (25th Jan 2024) said it has received approval from the US health regulator to market a generic medication to manage postherpetic neuraliga.

The company has received final approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to manufacture and market Gabapentin tablets in strengths of 300 mg and 600 mg, respectively, Zydus Lifesciences said in a regulatory filing.

The drug maker is the first company to receive final approval for generic Gabapentin tablets (300 mg and 600 mg), it added.

The product will be launched immediately in the US market, the drug firm stated.

As per IQVIA data, the product had an annual sales of USD 85 million in the US. Shares of Zydus were trading 2.27 per cent down at Rs 735.30 apiece on the BSE..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   Droupadi Murmu

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The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Kaushal Bhawan – a new building of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in New Delhi on January 24, 2024.

On the occasion, the President visited the exhibition stalls set up by the beneficiaries of various initiatives of the Government such as PM Vishwakarma, PM JANMAN, Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and interacted with them.

The Kaushal Bhawan whose foundation stone was laid in March 2019 will provide office space for the Ministry as well as its associated organisations – the Directorate General of Training, the National Council for Vocational Education and Training and the National Skill Development Corporation.

This state-of-the-art office building, equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure has been built with the aim of providing a safe, convenient and efficient work environment to usher in new work culture and give a fillip to Skill India Mission..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Oman

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The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on 15th December, 2023, between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of the Sultanate of Oman on cooperation in the field of Information Technology.

* The MoU intends to promote comprehensive cooperation between the Parties through mutual support, sharing of technologies, information and investments in the field of Information Technology.

* The MoU shall come into effect from the date of signature of the Parties and shall be remain in force for a period of 3 years.

* Both G2G and B2B bilateral Cooperation in the field of Information Technology will be enhanced.

* MoU envisages improved collaboration leading to employment opportunities in the field of IT.

Background :

* MeitY has been mandated to promote international cooperation in emerging and frontier areas of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) under bilateral and regional frameworks of cooperation.  MeitY is collaborating with a number of countries and multilateral agencies for fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the ICT domain.

* Over the period, MeitY has entered into MoUs/Agreements with its counterpart organizations/agencies from various countries to promote cooperation and exchange of information in the ICT domain.  This is in consonance with the various initiatives taken by Government of India such as Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India etc. to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.  In this changing paradigm, there is an imminent need for exploring business opportunities, sharing of best practices and attracting investment in the digital sector with the objective of enhancing mutual cooperation..


Source : PM India

Correct Answer :   Visakhapatnam

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The 14th edition of the Annual All India Police Commando Competition (AIPCC) began on January 22, 2024 at the Greyhounds Training Centre in Kapuluppada, Visakhapatnam. Elite commando forces from 16 states are participating in this week-long competition.

Inauguration and Dignitaries :

Commissioner A. Ravi Shankar inaugurated the event, emphasizing its significance in fostering inter-state cooperation and showcasing the prowess of India’s top commando units. The Additional Director General of Greyhounds, R.K. Meena, added prestige to the occasion with his presence.

Participating States and Forces :

The competition has attracted elite commando forces from across the country. Notable participants include the Special Operations Group (SOG) from Odisha and Chhattisgarh, C-60 from Maharashtra, and paramilitary forces such as BSF, CRPF, Assam Rifles, ITBP, RPF, SSB, and CISF. The diverse representation promises a competition of unparalleled intensity and skill.

Competition Format :

The competition is structured in five phases, each designed to challenge the participants’ skill, endurance, and teamwork. With teams comprising 13-15 commandos, the event aims to push the limits of the commandos’ capabilities. The competition spans a week, providing a comprehensive assessment of the participants’ tactical acumen and physical prowess.

Judging Criteria and Expert Panel :

A distinguished panel of judges from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) will evaluate the commandos throughout the competition. Their expertise ensures a fair and meticulous assessment of the participants, adding a layer of credibility to the event. The judging criteria encompass various facets, including strategic thinking, execution precision, and adaptability to diverse scenarios.

State Team Representation :

The state team, a crucial aspect of the competition, comprises personnel from the Greyhounds and Octopus units. Their performance not only contributes to individual glory but also adds to the overall standing of their respective states in the competition.

A Showcase of Dedication and Skill in the 14th All India Police Commando Competition :

The 14th All India Police Commando Competition is not merely a display of physical prowess but a testament to the dedication and skill of the nation’s law enforcement agencies. The competition promises to be a riveting spectacle of tactical brilliance and strategic acumen, showcasing the best of India’s elite commando forces.

Correct Answer :   January 24

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National Girl Child Day 2024, observed annually on January 24th in India, plays a pivotal role in highlighting the importance of empowering girls and addressing the challenges they face in society. Initiated in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this day marks a commitment to promote gender equality, empower girls, and protect their rights.

National Girl Child Day History :

The inception of National Girl Child Day (NGCD) in 2008 was a crucial step in India’s journey towards gender equality. This day emerged from the recognition that girls in India confront numerous challenges, including gender-based violence, child marriage, and restricted access to education and healthcare. These issues not only impede girls’ personal development but also negatively affect the nation’s progress.

The first NGCD was celebrated with the theme “Saving our Girls: Educating our Girls.” Since then, it has been observed annually with various themes, each underscoring the need to empower and address specific challenges faced by girls.

National Girl Child Day 2024- Theme

As of the latest information, the theme for National Girl Child Day 2024 has not been announced. However, the day consistently focuses on promoting girls’ rights and opportunities, with an emphasis on education, and skills, and enabling them to reach their full potential?.

National Girl Child Day 2024- Celebrating :

National Girl Child Day serves as a beacon of hope, spotlighting the challenges faced by girls and championing their rights, education, and overall well-being. Activities like sports events, cultural programs, career guidance sessions, health and hygiene workshops, and storytelling sessions featuring inspiring women are typically organized. These events aim to motivate girls and instil a sense of resilience and empowerment?.

National Girl Child Day 2024 -Government Initiatives and Objectives :

The Government of India marks this day by highlighting various schemes and initiatives focusing on education, health, and nutrition for girls. The Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched in 2015, is a notable initiative addressing the declining child sex ratio and promoting girls’ rights and welfare?.

The Importance of Participation :

National Girl Child Day is not just a government-led initiative; it calls for participation from all sectors of society. Engaging in community service projects, organizing health camps, and supporting initiatives that empower girls are ways in which individuals and organizations can contribute.

Correct Answer :   Jagdeep Dhankhar

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The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar  will inaugurate a year long pan India campaign 'Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman' to commemorate the 75th Year of India as Republic, tomorrow i.e. 24th January, 2024 at Dr Ambedkar International Centre.

The campaign aims to reaffirm our collective commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution of India and celebrate the shared values that bind our nation. This nationwide initiative envisage to instill a sense of pride and responsibility to uphold the ideals outlined in the constitutional framework. It will also give opportunity to every citizen to participate in various ways, empower them to contribute in meaningful way in our democratic journey.

Some of the themes to be covered during the Campaign include:-

Sabko Nyay –Har Ghar Nyaya aims to connect the villagers through the Village Level Entrepreneurs of the Common Service Centers and exalt them to read Sabko Nyay pledge; ‘Nyaya Sahayaks’ which will spearhead awareness about the various citizen- centric legal services to the masses, at their door steps across aspirational blocks and districts. At the State/UT level, Nyaya Seva Mela would be organized which would serve as platforms for individuals to seek guidance, information and support on various legal as well as other services and schemes of the government.

Another activity naming Nav Bharat Nav Sankalp aims to encourage the masses to embrace the resolutions of Panch Pran by reading the Panch Pran Pledge. The citizens would get the opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity by participating in Panch Pran Rangotsav (Poster Making competition); Panch Pran Anubhav (Reel/Video making competition). The citizens will also get the chance to test their knowledge on Constitution in engaging way. The activities would be hosted at the My Gov platform.

The third activity Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan aims to involve the students to carry the message Panch Pran in the villages adopted by the Law colleges, under the Pro Bono Club scheme. It aims to disseminate the legal information of the rights responsibilities and entitlements in very engaging, entertaining and memorable way. It also aims to touch the vulnerable sections of society through Gram Vidhi Chetna, Vanchit Varg Samman, and Nari Bhagidari initiatives.

During the Event, Nyaya Setu will be launched which is a significant and transformative step that aims to extend and expand the reach of legal services till the last mile. It will provide a unified legal interface for legal information, legal advice and legal assistance and thus enable a more inclusive and just society.

The Event will also witness the release of the achievement booklet of the Scheme on Access to Justice ‘Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice’ (DISHA). Under DISHA scheme Tele Law Programme has connected 67 lakh+ citizens for pre-litigation advice through the use of Tele-Law Citizens Mobile App and via 2.5 lakh Common Service Centers (CSC) situated in 36 States and UTs in the country.  The Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services) Programme aims to decentralize and create a dispensation framework for the Pro Bono Legal Services programme. It has created a network of 10,000+ of Probono advocates across 24 Bar Councils, created Nyaya Bandhu Panels in 25 High Courts and constituted Pro Bono Clubs across 89 Law schools in the country. In addition to this, more than 7 lakh beneficiaries have been sensitized and made aware on their legal rights and duties and entitlements through webinars and legal literacy programmes being implemented through support of 14 agencies across the country.

Simultaneously, the event will also bring together representatives from Bhashini and IGNOU to formalize their collaboration with Department of Justice. The partnership with Bhashini would break the barriers of language in accessibility to justice. The solutions of Bhashini have already been embedded in the Nyay Setu – Tele Facilitation of legal services. The partnership with IGNOU will open the opportunity for Paralegals to acquire certifications in diverse field of laws, enhance their educational opportunities and increase their skills and employability across different sectors of legal assistance and support.

The  dignitaries who will grace the event include  Minister of State(I/C) for Law and Justice Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal and Attorney General of India, Shri R. Venkatramani as Guest of Honour.

650+ Tele-Law functionaries from Common Service Centres across the country, students and faculty of the Pro Bono Law colleges will  attend  this event. This momentous inauguration event will conclude with the key note address by the  Vice-President.

The Campaign 'Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman' is being undertaken by Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Nisha Pahuja

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Helmed by Nisha Pahuja, To Kill a Tiger is nominated for Best Documentary Feature at Oscars 2024. The awards ceremony will take place in March 2024.

Set in India, To Kill a Tiger, directed and written by Nisha Pahuja, made it to the 96th Oscars nomination list in the Best Documentary Feature category. The nominations were announced on Tuesday, and many might be wondering who is Nisha Pahuja? For starters: Born in Delhi, Nisha is based in Toronto, Canada.

Who is Nisha Pahuja?

Nisha Pahuja shifted to Canada with her family in the 1970s and completed her studies in English Literature at the University of Toronto. She worked as a researcher on the CBC documentary Some Kind of Arrangement and later joined hands with Canadian filmmakers John Walker and Ali Kazimi. She rose to fame after her 2012 documentary film, The World Before Her.

Her projects :

With recognitions including Best Documentary Feature and Jury Award Winner from the Tribeca Film Festival, Best Canadian Documentary from Hot Docs and TIFF's Canada's Top Ten, the Emmy-nominated film, with the help of director Anurag Kashyap, saw a theatrical release in India in 2014. Nisha's other works include the feature documentary Bollywood Bound and a three-part series Diamond Road.

More about her latest, About To Kill a Tiger :

To Kill a Tiger is based in India and follows the story of Ranjit and his battle for justice as his daughter was sexually assaulted by three men. The official synopsis of the film reads, “In To Kill a Tiger, Ranjit, a farmer in Jharkhand, India, takes on the fight of his life when he demands justice for his 13-year-old daughter, the survivor of sexual assault. In India, where a rape is reported every 20 minutes and conviction rates are less than 30 percent, Ranjit’s decision to support his daughter is virtually unheard of, and his journey unprecedented.”.


Source : Hindustan Times