Correct Answer :   Bengaluru

---

Timetooth, a Bengaluru-based engineering company, has unveiled India’s first-ever domestically manufactured aircraft passenger seat at the Wings India 2024 event. This groundbreaking development marks a departure from the industry norm, where 100% of aircraft seats used by India’s registered air travel companies are imported.

Identifying the Gap: Timetooth’s Vision for Change :

Amitav Chaudhuri, Co-Founder and Director of Timetooth, highlighted the current dependence on imported aircraft seats in a statement. He emphasized that despite the freedom given to airlines to choose seat sourcing, the lack of a domestic alternative compelled them to import all seats. Timetooth, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and with support from Indian airline companies, identified this gap and took the initiative to launch India’s first indigenous aircraft passenger seat.

Designing for Performance and Comfort :

Janhavi Nene, VP Engineering at Timetooth and the project manager for the seats, shared insights into the design process. She explained that the team focused on meeting the Performance standards as per ITSO C39c while ensuring user comfort and operational efficiency for the airlines. The result is a range of lightweight seats, currently tailored for commuter aircraft such as the newly DGCA certified Hindustan (Dornier) 228. Additionally, Timetooth has regional transport aircraft seats conforming to ITSO C127c in the pipeline.

Spicejet’s Interest: A Testament to Timetooth’s Innovation :

Spicejet, one of India’s leading airlines, has expressed keen interest in procuring state-of-the-art seating systems from Timetooth. The airline aims to customize these seats to align with the Spicejet brand and its vision for an enhanced user experience. Arun Kashyap, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Spicejet, formalized this intent during Wings India 2024, signing a letter of agreement with Timetooth. In his statement, Kashyap mentioned the alignment of Timetooth’s commitment to safety, comfort, and innovation with Spicejet’s expansion and modernization plans.

A Paradigm Shift in the Indian Aviation Industry :

Timetooth’s launch of India’s first aircraft passenger seat not only marks a historic moment for the company but also signals a paradigm shift in the Indian aviation industry. The move towards domestically produced seating solutions not only supports the government’s “Make in India” initiative but also opens doors for innovation, collaboration, and self-sufficiency in meeting the evolving needs of the aviation sector.

Correct Answer :   January 24

---

Celebrated on January 24th each year, the International Day of Education is a pivotal occasion to underscore the importance of education for all. In 2024, this day will be observed under the theme “Learning for Lasting Peace,” emphasizing the transformative nature of education in promoting peace and understanding.

International Day of Education History and Significance :

The United Nations General Assembly declared January 24th as the International Day of Education in 2018, recognizing the fundamental role education plays in fostering peace, development, and intercultural understanding. This global observance marks a commitment to ensuring free access to learning for everyone, highlighting education as a basic human right????.

International Day of Education Theme for 2024 :

The 2024 theme “Learning for Lasting Peace” resonates with current global challenges. It focuses on empowering individuals with knowledge, values, attitudes, skills, and behaviours essential for fostering peace within communities. Education is acknowledged as a foundational force in our lives, playing a crucial role in building more peaceful, just, and sustainable societies???.

Objectives and Activities International Day of Education 2024 :

The International Day of Education aims to advocate for inclusive and equitable education for all, including marginalized and disadvantaged groups. It highlights the importance of education in promoting global citizenship, peace, and mutual understanding among diverse cultures. Various activities like educational field trips, book reading sessions, digital literacy workshops, and cultural events are organized globally to celebrate this day??.

India’s Role and Celebration of International Day of Education 2024 :

India, in the spirit of the International Day of Education, could engage various organizations, educational institutions, and volunteers to work towards the cause of education. Programs focused on reaching out to deprived sections of society and addressing educational constraints are crucial. Diplomatic dialogues and awareness campaigns can further India’s commitment to eradicating illiteracy and achieving sustainable development?.

Global Impact :

The International Day of Education plays a vital role in re-evaluating the importance of education in our lives. It addresses education-related issues in society and highlights its role in breaking cultural and national boundaries. Education is acknowledged as a key instrument for achieving peace and equality, emphasizing its significance as a human right????.

Correct Answer :   Bihar

---

Former Chief Minister of Bihar Karpoori Thakur was conferred the nation's highest honour, Bharat Ratna, posthumously by the President of India Droupadi Murmu this evening. The award comes 35 years after his death -- Karpoori Thakur died on February 17, 1988.

"I am delighted that the Government of India has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on the beacon of social justice, the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji and that too at a time when we are marking his birth centenary. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring efforts as a champion for the marginalized and a stalwart of equality and empowerment," tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

I am delighted that the Government of India has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on the beacon of social justice, the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji and that too at a time when we are marking his birth centenary. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring… pic.twitter.com/9fSJrZJPSP

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2024

Dubbed "Jan Nayak" by many in the state, Karpoori Thakur served as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a short while -- from December 1970 to June 1971 and from December 1977 to April 1979.

The Centre's recognition for the state's first non-Congress Chief Minister meets a long-standing demand of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his Janata Dal United.

23rd Jan 2024, the Chief Minister said, this "highest honor to late Karpoori Thakur ji on his 100th birth anniversary will create positive sentiments among the Dalits, deprived and neglected sections".

Coming ahead of the general election, it is seen as the BJP's masterstroke in a state that has 40 parliamentary seats. Karpoori Thakur being a member of Other Backward Castes, many see it as part of the BJP's attempt to gain allegiance of this section which has so far been loyal to Nitish Kumar.

Sources said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was well aware that after the state government's caste survey in Bihar and the subsequent increase in quota for the Economically Backward Classes, the Other Backward Classes and the Dalits in jobs and educational institutions in Bihar, the ruling alliance led by Nitish Kumar was enjoying a clear edge..

Source : NDTV

Correct Answer :   Telangana

---

Government of Telangana to introduce Gruha Jyothi Scheme From February (2024) First Week. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has accelerated every process that it takes to implement all the six guaranteed schemes as soon as possible.

There was much confusion about this scheme, as many people refused to pay their electricity bills for the past 2 months, after hearing that the Gruha Jyothi scheme Free 200 units of electricity is announced.

However the Government of Telangana mentioned that Only people who have cleared all their previous month’s electricity bills are eligible for the scheme, specifically from December 2023 and January 2024, there should be no arrears in electricity bills.

Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy announced that the Gruha Jyothi’s free electricity scheme will be implemented from starting of February. Every BPL card household will get 200 units of free electricity under this scheme from February. So every household will get 200 units of free electricity, if your electricity consumption is or within 200 units you don’t have to pay for electricity.

In a meeting of the Manifesto Committee of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) which was in Hyderabad, officials reviewed about implementation of all the guarantee schemes. Including Deepa Dasmunshi (AICC) many congress officials were in the meeting.

Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said that the Congress Government has already implemented free TSRTC Bus travel for women and accelerated the process for other schemes as well. He mentioned that the Gruha Jyothi Scheme will be implemented from February 2024.

Komatireddy Venkat Reddy pointed out that the Arogyasiri Scheme is providing health benefits for 5 lakh to 10 lakh which is also implemented which shows how the government is working fast to implement all the schemes.

People who are eligible for the implemented schemes are requested to apply for them and get the benefits as much as possible..

Source : Mahalakshmi Scheme

Correct Answer :   Amazon

---

In 2024, the world’s biggest brands continue to shape industries and consumer preferences. Amazon leads the list, followed by Apple, a powerhouse in e-commerce and diverse business ventures. Microsoft remains a tech giant, while Google dominates online search and information. Samsung’s electronics prowess, Facebook’s social media influence, and Coca-Cola’s timeless appeal solidify their positions, joined by Toyota, Nike, and Walmart, creating a dynamic landscape of global market leaders.

Most Valuable Brand in the World 2024 :

As of 2024, Amazon reigns as the world’s largest retail giant, commanding a staggering market value of $299.3 billion. Beyond its origins as an online marketplace, Amazon’s diverse ventures into cloud services, entertainment, and innovation have solidified its status as a global powerhouse, shaping the landscape of commerce and technology on an unprecedented scale.

Top-10 Most Valuable Brand in the World By January 2024 :

Amazon, with the brand value of $299.3, is the most valuable brand in the world, followed by Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Walmart.

Here is the list of top-10 most valuable brands in the world by January 2024 :

1.    Amazon ($299.3 - U.S).
2.    Apple  ($297.5 - U.S).
3.    Google ($281.4  - U.S).
4.    Microsoft ($191.6  - U.S).
5.    Walmart ($113.8  -U.S).
6.    Samsung Group ($99.7- South Korea)
7.    ICBC ($69.5 - China)
8.    Verizon ($67.4 - U.S).
9.    Tesla ($66.2 - U.S).
10.    Tik Tok/ Douyin ($65.7 - China)

Correct Answer :   January 23

---

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in commemorating the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, observed as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour), on January 23.

The Prime Minister conveyed his greetings to the people of India and highlighted Netaji's dedication to the nation's freedom.

"Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire," wrote PM Modi on X.

Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire. pic.twitter.com/OZP6cJBgeC

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2024

Subhas Chandra Bose was born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha. He was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. Growing up, Subhas Chandra Bose was a bright student who completed his BA in Philosophy from the Presidency College in Calcutta (today known as Kolkata). His father also sent him to England to appear for the Civil Services Examination. He scored the highest marks in English and placed fourth overall.

It was in 1921 that he resigned from the Indian Civil Service and returned to India. His frequent run-ins with the authorities earned him notoriety as a rebel by the then-British government in India.

Netaji worked under the mentorship of prominent Congress leader Chittaranjan Das who, along with Motilal Nehru, left the Congress Party to form the Swaraj Party in 1922. He started a newspaper called Swaraj and even served as editor of the Forward, a newspaper started by Chittaranjan Das.

In 1923, Netaji was elected the President of the All India Youth Congress Committee and the Secretary of the Bengal State Congress. He briefly served as the mayor of Calcutta in 1930 as well.

In 1942, he formed the Indian National Army in Southeast Asia with the help of Japan, comprising of Indian soldiers the British Indian army captured in war. Netaji established a provisional government of Free India or Azad Hind in 1943 in Andaman and Nicobar, then captured by Japanese forces.

Subhas Chandra Bose is believed to have died in a plane that crashed shortly after take-off. Due to the mystery surrounding the circumstances of his death, the Government of India has since set up a number of committees to investigate the case.

Notably, the title 'Netaji', which means 'Revered Leader' in Hindi, was given to Subhas Chandra Bose by German and Indian officials at the Special Bureau of India in Berlin.

Correct Answer :   Both (B) and (C)

---

The Uttar Pradesh government will honor ISRO scientist Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava and entrepreneur Naveen Tiwari on Uttar Pradesh Day for their achievements.

The state government will honour two personalities who have brought laurels to the state on the Uttar Pradesh Day on Wednesday (24th Jan 2024).

The government will confer the ‘Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman’ on eminent ISRO scientist Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who played a crucial role in the Chandrayaan Mission as the mission director of mission moon, and Naveen Tiwari, a noted entrepreneur from Kanpur, who is regularly featured on covers of magazines like Forbes and Fortune, said a UP government in a statement on Tuesday. The U.P. government celebrates the Uttar Pradesh Diwas on January 24, 2024.

Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who hails from Lucknow, played a crucial role in the development of India’s Mars Orbiter Mission Mangalyaan. She also served as the deputy operations director for this mission. Mangalyaan was one of ISRO’s greatest achievements, making India the fourth country in the world to reach Mars, said the statement.

Dr Ritu completed her B.Sc. in physics from Lucknow University. She was a research scholar at Lucknow University for six months. During the convocation in 2019, the Lucknow University presented her with the prestigious D.Sc. (honorary doctorate) degree. Karidhal has been working for ISRO since 1997. She also obtained a master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore.

Eminent entrepreneur Naveen Tewari, a resident of Kanpur, has created two unicorns and given India its first unicorn. He has established the world’s largest independent mobile ad tech platform, connecting local businesses in Uttar Pradesh and India with national and international audiences. His lock screen software is present on more than 40 crore smartphones globally.

He has his presence in 26 countries, positioning India on the global stage. He has directly employed 3000 people while giving employment to thousands indirectly. (With agency inputs)..


Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   60 Parachute Field Hospital (UP)

---

The Centre on Tuesday (23rd Jan 2024) announced that 60 Parachute Field Hospital in Uttar Pradesh, which provided medical aid during the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria in 2023, has been selected for Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024 (institutional category) for “excellent work in disaster management”.

The Central government has instituted an annual award known as Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar to recognise and honour the invaluable contribution and selfless service rendered by individuals and organisations in India in the field of disaster management.

The award is announced every year on 23 January 2024, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 51 lakh and a certificate in case of an institution, and Rs 5 lakh and a certificate in case of an individual.

“Under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the country has significantly improved the disaster management practices, preparedness, mitigation, and response mechanisms resulting in significant reduction in casualties during natural calamities. The Union Home Minister continuously reviews disaster preparedness and stresses upon training of communities and adopting best practices by the stakeholders to minimise loss of life and property,” said a Ministry of Home Affairs spokesperson in a statement.

For the award of 2024, online nominations were solicited from July 1, 2023, onwards. In response to the award scheme, 245 valid nominations were received from institutions and individuals.

“The 60 Parachute Field Hospital in Uttar Pradesh was established in 1942. It had provided medical assistance during the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, the 2015 Nepal earthquake under the operation name Maitri, and Indonesian tsunami as part of operation Samudra Maitri in 2018.

In February 2023, in response to the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria, the unit rapidly assembled a 99-member team and established India’s pioneering level-2 medical facility in Turkey overcoming resource constraints and language barrier to set up a 30-bed hospital in Hatay province’s school building. The unit provided a wide range of medical services, including rescue, triage, surgery, dental treatment, X-ray, lab facilities, and offered care to 3,600 patients during a 12-day period as a part of Operation Dost,” the spokesperson said..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   Zambia

---

The Mines Ministry has proposed sending an Indian industry delegation to copper-rich Zambia to discuss potential copper exploration and mining projects in the southern African country.

Mining companies including Vedanta and its subsidiary Hindustan Zinc, along with electric vehicle (EV) maker Ola Electric and lithium-ion battery recycler LOHUM, have expressed interest in joining the delegation to Zambia to attend a joint working group (JWG) meeting to discuss cooperation in the field of mineral resources.

Zambia has about 6 per cent of the world’s copper reserves and was the eighth-largest producer of copper in 2022. Copper is widely used in sectors like construction, consumer durables, transportation, and industrial manufacturing. It is also used in clean energy technologies including solar panels, EVs, and energy efficient motors. China Nonferrous Mining Corporation (CNMC) is among the largest producers of copper in Zambia..

Source : Indian Express

Correct Answer :   From rooftop solar panels

---

The shares of renewable energy companies showed immense growth on 23rd January 2024, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced solar panels for 1 crore homes after the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony on Monday (22nd Jan 2024).

Major renewable energy companies like Tata Power and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) were some of the top gainers of the day on the stock market, with their shares rallying over 5 percent as the markets closed.

Overall, renewable energy stocks saw a surge of over 18 percent today after PM Modi announced the Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana on Monday (22nd Jan 2024), after the nation celebrated the Pran Prathishtha of Ram Lalla idol in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

The prime minister tweeted on Monday, “Today, on the auspicious occasion of consecration in Ayodhya, my resolution got further strengthened that the people of India should have their own solar rooftop system on the roof of their houses. The first decision I have taken after returning from Ayodhya is that our government will launch “Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana” with the target of installing rooftop solar on 1 crore houses.”

Renewable energy companies see major spike :

The top stock market gainer for the day in the renewable energy space remained Borosil Renewables, which soared 19 percent today, touching its 52-week high. The second gainer was Tata Power, its share prices up 6 percent on Tuesday (23rd Jan 2024).

Other renewable energy companies in India such as state-run IREDA, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy, Waree Renewable Technologies, Surana Solar, and Gensol Engineering were all up 5 percent today, touching their 52-week high.

The significant rise in shares on Tuesday, despite the major market crash, is all thanks to the growing advancements in India's renewable energy sector and the announcement of the Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana, boosting the demand of solar panel systems..

Source : Hindustan Times