Correct Answer :   Altair

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Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has partnered with Altair, a global technology company providing solutions in simulation, high-performance computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to launch an eMobility Simulation Lab.

Set up in the Department of Engineering Design, IIT Madras, this lab will have state-of-the-art products and tools along with financial support from Altair. This will be followed with other labs and facilities to deliver research and training in the eMobility Domain.

Welcoming the launch of this new facility, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said,“Given the Government’s focus on eMobility and rapid expansion of the market that is expected, there is a need for IIT Madras to play its role in the academic space. eMobility-related initiatives in Academic Programs, Research and Policy are all managed and offered with multiple Departments contributing with the Department of Engineering Design acting as the nodal department.”

Prof. V. Kamakoti added, “In the coming years, we will be seeing a cluster of initiatives, facilities and Programs in eMobility from IIT Madras to equip Industry and Government to address the challenges in ramping up the market for EVs.”

The lab will host Altair’s modelling and simulation tools which will support the academic activities that IIT Madras will carry out in the other eMobility labs for Batteries, Charging, Power Electronics, Motors and Controllers and Vehicle Engineering, among other related areas. These facilities will together support the multiple Academic initiatives that the Department of Engineering Design, IIT Madras, has started in the area of eMobility.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vishwanath Rao, Managing Director, Altair, said,“I am confident that the creation of the eMobility Simulation Lab at IIT Madras represents a pivotal stride in advancing research within the electric vehicle domain and advocating for sustainable transportation solutions. We are thrilled to join forces with IIT Madras in this endeavour, turning this forward-thinking initiative into reality. Our unwavering commitment extends to providing continuous support and expertise to guarantee the project's triumphant execution.”

Commenting on the partnership with Altair, Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean (Alumni and Corporate Relations), IIT Madras, said,“We are delighted to partner with Altair in creating a lab that will be the nursery for the next generation of eMobility solutions. Partnerships such as this bring together industry and academic expertise - both increasingly essential ingredients for creating successful startups and ideas.”

The Department of Engineering Design at IIT Madras has, over the last three years, developed and launched a series of initiatives and programs in the area of eMobility.

Highlighting the unique aspects of these initiatives, Prof. CS. Shankar Ram, Head, Department of Engineering Design, IIT Madras, said,“We have been doing this in close partnership with different stakeholders – other IITMadras Departments, Government of India, Industry Experts who are Professors of Practice at IIT-M, Policy experts, Industry and Businesses as well as with Philanthropists. The vision is to have these initiatives make the Department as a hub for all eMobility-related matters. The eMobility Simulation Lab supported by Altair is an important enabler in achieving this vision.”

The key outcomes envisaged from the eMobility Simulation Lab include :

* Enhance student learning in related courses.

* Support academic projects and research.

* Complement skilling initiatives in the eMobility domain..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Arvind Panagariya

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The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today (18th Jan 2024) approved the creation of three officer-level posts for assisting the 16th Finance Commission.

* The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the establishment of three officer-level posts to support the 16th Finance Commission. The newly instituted positions consist of two Joint Secretary-level roles and one Economic Adviser.

* The appointments align with the notification issued on December 31, 2023, in accordance with the provisions of Article 280 of the Constitution. The 16th Finance Commission is tasked with evaluating the financial situations of both central and state governments, providing recommendations for assistance grants, suggesting tax adjustments, and determining the framework for tax distribution among states.

* On December 31, Arvind Panagariya, former Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog and a professor at Columbia University, was appointed as the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission.

* Hrithik Ranjan Pandey has been designated as the new Secretary of the Finance Commission.

* The Commission will submit its report to the President by October 31, 2025, covering a five-year period starting April 1, 2026.

* The 15th Finance Commission was established on November 27, 2017, with recommendations spanning from 2020-21 to 2025-26. Typically, it takes about two years for the Finance Commission to present its recommendations.

* In accordance with Article 280(1) of the Constitution, the Finance Commission is constituted every five years or earlier. The Advance Cell of the 16th Finance Commission was instituted on November 21, 2022, within the Finance Ministry to oversee preliminary activities until the formal establishment of the Commission..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   Kuwaiti Dinar

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Kuwaiti Dinar has been declared as the strongest currency in the world despite dominance of the US dollar, that occupied the tenth spot in the latest rankings. The Bahraini Dinar and Omani Rial occupy the second and third spots respectively, Forbes reported.

The United Nations currently recognises 180 currencies as legal tenders, but the popularity and use do not equate to the value or strength commanded by a currency, the report added.

According to the report, the strength of the currency is determined by evaluating the number of goods and services which can be purchased with one unit of the national currency and foreign currency obtained in exchange.

Here are the top 10 currencies as per the Forbes list.

TOP 10 CURRENCIES OF THE WORLD :

1. KUWAITI DINAR
2. BAHRAINI DINAR
3. OMANI RIAL
4. JORDANIAN DINAR
5. GIBRALTAR POUND
6.  BRITISH POUND
7. CAYMAN ISLAND DOLLAR
8. SWISS FRANC
9. EURO
10. US DOLLAR

Kuwaiti Dinar was introduced in 1960 and has been consistently ranked as the world's most valuable currency. According to the Forbes report, the currency has been in high demand due to the Middle East country's economic stability due to its oil reserves and tax-free system. As per today's exchange rate, one Kuwaiti Dinar costs ?270.10.

However, the US dollar, despite being the most widely traded global currency, is tenth on the list. The Euro is the official currency of Eurozone which comprises 19 member states of the European Union. It is the second-most traded currency and holds the ninth spot.

As per the Forbes report, economic growth, political stability, global demand and natural resources are determining factors to measure the strength and value of a currency.

Correct Answer :   Adani Group

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The World Economic Forum 2024, the Adani Group unveiled plans to invest Rs 50,000 crore over the next decade in establishing a 1 GW hyperscale data centre in Maharashtra. The conglomerate’s flagship company, Adani Enterprises Ltd, and the Maharashtra government formalized this commitment through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani.

Key Highlights :

Scale of Investment : The ambitious project involves a staggering investment of Rs 50,000 crore, reinforcing Adani Group’s commitment to the data infrastructure sector.

Renewable Energy Focus : The 1 GW data centre, strategically located in key areas such as Mumbai or Navi Mumbai and Pune, will be powered entirely by renewable energy. This initiative not only boosts green energy infrastructure in Maharashtra but also aligns with broader sustainability goals.

Employment Opportunities : The project is expected to generate direct and indirect employment for approximately 20,000 individuals, contributing significantly to the economic landscape of the state.

Deemed Distribution Investments : Adani Group plans to make deemed distribution investments to support the energy requirements of the proposed data centre infrastructure, indicating a comprehensive approach to power the facility.

Maharashtra’s Perspective :

* The Maharashtra government views this hyperscale data centre as economically and socially beneficial to the state. With a keen interest in promoting information technology-related infrastructure and services, this partnership is poised to bolster Maharashtra’s position in the evolving digital landscape.

Mumbai’s Renewable Energy Transformation :

* Mumbai has rapidly transitioned from a minimal share of renewable energy to emerging as a global leader in clean energy adoption. Mega projects, including this data centre initiative, have played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s renewable energy journey. As of 2023, Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd supplied up to 38% of electricity to Mumbai consumers from renewable sources, with a target to reach 60% by 2027.

Correct Answer :   Andhra Pradesh

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In Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will unveil the 125 feet Bronze statue of Dr BR Ambedkar at Swaraj Maidan in Vijayawada. Termed as "Statue of Social Justice", it pays tribute to the contributions of DR BR Ambedkar and seeks to inspire future generations for an egalitarian society.

Akashvani Correspondent reports that inspired from the Kalachkara Mahamandap of Buddhist architecture, the 125 feet Bronze statue of Dr BR Ambedkar stands on a pedestal of 81 feet taking the total height to 206 ft.

Built at the cost of 400 crores in about 18 acres, the Swaraj Maida also houses Dr BR Ambedkar Chaitya Museum, a convention centre, a colonnade with mural art works of life events of BR Ambedkar along with a musical fountain and a garden.

The Statue of Social Justice is a tribute to the contributions of Babasaheb who was a crusader for social justice. With the inauguration slated today, the city of Vijayawada is bearing a festive look with all the roads leading to Ambedkar Smriti Vanam..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Sikkim

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India’s wildlife conservation, the first-ever confirmed sighting of the rare Tibetan Brown Bear (scientific name: Ursus arctos pruinosus) was recorded in the high altitudes of North Sikkim. This discovery, made by the joint efforts of the Sikkim Forest Department and WWF-India, marks a significant addition to the country’s mammal diversity and highlights the ecological richness of the region.

The Discovery :

* Location of Sighting : The bear was spotted in the Mangan district of North Sikkim, a region known for its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity.

* Camera Trap Evidence : Camera traps installed in the area captured images of the bear in December 2023, revealing its characteristic yellowish scarf-like collar that broadens from the shoulders to the chest????.

* Conservation Significance : This sighting is a groundbreaking revelation for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists, as it adds a new subspecies to India’s mammalian portfolio and emphasizes the importance of preserving the state’s precious wildlife?.

Characteristics and Habitat of the Tibetan Brown Bear :

* Appearance and Diet : The Tibetan Brown Bear, also known as the Tibetan Blue Bear, is an omnivore with a diet generally consisting of marmots and alpine vegetation. It is distinct from the more commonly found Himalayan Black Bear in terms of appearance, habitat, and behavior.

* Habitat : This rare bear inhabits high-altitude alpine forests, meadows, and steppes above 4000 meters and is very shy of human contact, making it seldom observed in the wild??.

* Adaptation to Environment : It is uniquely adapted to the harsh conditions of the Tibetan Plateau and is one of the rarest subspecies of bears in the world??.

Ecological and Cultural Importance :

* Cultural References : The elusive nature of this creature has inspired folklore, such as the Yeti legends, across the Himalayas. It has been a subject of intrigue among the Dokpas, the nomadic herders from the high-altitude areas of the Tso Lhamo plateau and Muguthang.

* Conservation Status : The Tibetan Brown Bear is accorded the highest protection status under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) as a protected species??.

Correct Answer :   Saryu River

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Ayodhya into a model solar city, a solar power-enabled boat will for the first time be launched in the country in the Saryu river, an official statement said here on Tuesday. The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Agency (UPNEDA) has prepared the outline for the regular operation of this boat service in the Saryu river of Ayodhya.

* This boat has been assembled on the banks of Saryu Ghat and its spare parts and other accessories have been procured from different corners of the country, it said.

* Currently, one boat has been fully assembled and it is undergoing the testing phase.

* It is expected that it will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath before the Ram temple consecration ceremony on January 22, paving the way for regular operation of other such boats in the coming days.

* This solar-powered boat works on the concept of operating through clean energy. It is a dual-mode operating boat that works on a 100 per cent solar electric power base.

* In addition to solar charging, it can also be operated using electric energy.

* Constructed with a lightweight and durable fiberglass body, this boat ensures a noise-free and environmentally friendly operation, the statement said, adding the boat can accommodate up to 30 passengers and will operate from the Naya ghat.

* The boat can manage a propulsion timeframe of five to six hours on a full charge.

* Between January 17 and 18, the boat will undergo various testing procedures, including waterproofing. Following successful testing, it is scheduled to be inaugurated before the 'pran 'pratishtha' ceremony.

* The UPNEDA developed boat is powered by 3.3 kilowatt rooftop solar panels and there are a total of six solar panels installed on the rooftop of the boat which produce 550 watts of power energy..

Source : India Times

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (18th Jan 2024) launched commemorative postage stamps on Ayodhya's Ram Temple and a book with stamps dedicated to Lord Ram from around the world.

* Speaking about the launch of the stamps, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Today, I got the opportunity to attend another event organised by Shri Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Abhiyan. Today, 6 Commemorative Postage Stamps on Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir and an album of stamps issued on Lord Ram around the world have been released. I want to congratulate the people of the country and all Ram Bhakts across the world."

* The stamp book aims to showcase the international appeal of Lord Ram on various societies. This 48-page book covers stamps issued by more than 20 countries, including the US, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, Cambodia and organisations like the United Nations.

* The design of the stamps encompasses essential elements related to Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, showcasing the temple itself, the revered Choupai 'Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari,' the sun, the Saryu River, and the sculptures in and around the temple.

* The commemorative stamp collection comprises six distinct stamps, each featuring key figures and symbols associated with Lord Ram's narrative.

* The stamps include depictions of the Ram Temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj, and Ma Shabri. The use of gold leaf detailing for the sun rays and the Choupai adds a regal touch to the miniature sheet.

* Preparations are underway for the mega Ram Mandir 'Pran Pratishtha' (consecration) ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the chief guest of the event, which will also mark the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

* According to the temple trust, over 7,000 people, including politicians, celebrities, industrialists, saints will attend the ceremony.

Correct Answer :   Shantanu Jha

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Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha has assumed charge as Chief Staff Officer (Operations) Eastern Naval Command. An alumnus of NDA, he was commissioned into IndianNavy in 1993. Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha is a Navigation and Direction specialist and has served as Navigating Officer onbaord six frontline Frigates, Destroyers and Aircraft carrier INS Viraat.

His afloat appointments include Executive Officer, INS Vikramaditya and Command of INS Nishank, INS Kora and INS Sahyadri. An alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and Royal College of Defence Studies, UK, the Admiral has Masters Degree in Defence Studies from MadrasUniversity and International Security and Strategy from Kings College, London.

He also tenanted appointment as Naval Attaché Tehran. A recipient of the Nau Sena Medal, Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha was Commodore (Strategy, Concepts and Transformation) at Naval Headquarters, prior taking over as CSO (Ops), ENC.

Correct Answer :   Employee's Provident Fund Organization

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The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will no longer accept Aadhaar Card as proof of date of birth, the retirement fund body announced on Tuesday (January 16).

The decision has been made with the approval of the Central Provident Fund Commissioner (CPFC).

The following documents will be considered as valid proof of date of birth by the EPFO :

1. Marksheet issued by any recognised government board or university
2. School Leaving Certificate (SLC)/School Transfer Certificate (TC)/SSC certificate with name and date of birth
3. Certificate based on the service records
4. PAN card
5. Central/State Pension Payment Order
6. Domicile certificate issued by the government
7. Passport
8. Government pension
9. Medical certificate issued by the civil surgeon

* Aadhaar is primarily an identity verification tool and not a proof of birth, EPFO said in a circular.

* “In this connection, a letter has been received from UIDAI (copy attached), wherein it has been stated that the use of an Aadhaar, as proof of DoB needs to be deleted from the list of acceptable documents. Accordingly, the Aadhaar is being removed from the list of acceptable documents for correction in date of birth as mentioned in Table-B of Annexure -1 of the JD SOP under reference,” EPFO said.

* The move was notified after a directive from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).