Correct Answer :   Dinesh Kumar Tripathi

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The Government of India has appointed Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, PVSM, AVSM, NM, currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, as the next Chief of the Naval Staff with effect from the afternoon of April 30, 2024. He will succeed the present Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, who retires from service on the same day.

A Decorated Officer with Diverse Operational Experience :

Born on May 15, 1964, Vice Admiral Tripathi was commissioned into the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy on July 01, 1985. A Communication and Electronic Warfare specialist, he has had a distinguished career spanning nearly 39 years. Prior to taking over as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, he served as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.

Vice Admiral Tripathi has commanded several Indian Naval Ships, including Vinash, Kirch, and Trishul. He has held various crucial operational and staff appointments, such as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet, Director of Naval Operations, Principal Director, Network Centric Operations, and Principal Director, Naval Plans at New Delhi.

Diverse Experiences and Strategic Roles :

As a Rear Admiral, he served as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) and the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet. In the rank of Vice Admiral, he has served as Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Director General of Naval Operations, Chief of Personnel, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.

Accomplished Academic and Professional Training :

An alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa, and National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Vice Admiral Tripathi has undergone courses at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Naval Higher Command Course, Karanja, and Naval Command College at the United States Naval War College, USA.

With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and proven leadership abilities, Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi is poised to lead the Indian Navy towards continued excellence and preparedness in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.

Correct Answer :   Ambuja Cements

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The Adani family recently infused ?8,339 crore into Ambuja Cements Ltd., increasing their stake to 70.3%.

This investment is part of a larger strategy to strengthen Ambuja's growth and market position, reflecting the Adani Group's strategic focus on the cement industry.

Correct Answer :   Hyderabad International Airport

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GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL) has been honored with the ‘Best Airport Staff in India & South Asia 2024’ award by Skytrax. The announcement took place during the Passenger Terminal EXPO 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany, on April 17, 2024. This accolade underscores the exceptional quality of service provided by the airport’s staff across various fronts, as evaluated through meticulous audits and assessments.

Criteria for Recognition :

The award is a testament to the commendable performance of the airport’s staff, who excel in attitude, friendliness, and efficiency across all customer-facing roles. These roles encompass customer help and information counters, immigration and security personnel, as well as staff in shops and food & beverage outlets. The recognition underscores the dedication and professionalism exhibited by the airport’s team in enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Skytrax Evaluation Process :

Skytrax, a globally renowned air transport rating organization with a legacy dating back to 1989, conducts comprehensive assessments of airports and airlines worldwide. Utilizing a star rating system ranging from 1 to 5 stars, Skytrax evaluates diverse aspects that significantly impact the passenger journey. This recognition by Skytrax reaffirms GMR Hyderabad International Airport’s commitment to excellence in customer service and operational standards.

Correct Answer :   18 April

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World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed annually on April 18. This year, the special day falls on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The observance of this day aims to raise awareness about the diversity and importance of the world’s cultural heritage, and the need to protect and preserve it for future generations.

Theme: "Disasters & Conflicts Through the Lens of the Venice Charter"

Since 1983, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) has set a theme around which events and activities are centered on World Heritage Day. For 2024, the theme is “Disasters & Conflicts Through the Lens of the Venice Charter”. This theme highlights the challenges and threats that heritage sites and monuments face, ranging from natural disasters to human-induced conflicts, and the importance of the principles and guidelines outlined in the Venice Charter for their protection and conservation.

History and Origins :

The idea of observing World Heritage Day was first proposed by ICOMOS in 1982, and the proposal was approved at UNESCO’s General Conference the following year. Since then, April 18 has been designated as the day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s cultural heritage.

The observance of World Heritage Day is a testament to the global recognition of the importance of preserving and protecting our shared cultural legacy. It serves as a reminder that the world’s heritage sites and monuments are not just local or national treasures, but rather, they are part of the common heritage of humanity.

Significance and Importance :

Our cultural heritage is a significant part of our identity as individuals, communities, and nations. It reflects our rich traditions, histories, and the creative expressions of our ancestors. Heritage sites and monuments are not just physical structures; they serve as portals to the past, allowing us to connect with our shared history and traditions.

However, these heritage sites and monuments are often vulnerable to various threats, including natural disasters, human-induced conflicts, and the pressures of urbanization and development. World Heritage Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the need to protect and preserve these invaluable assets for present and future generations.

India’s Rich Cultural Heritage :

India is home to a vast and diverse cultural heritage, with a total of 3,691 monuments and sites recognized as significant. Of these, 40 are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each with its own unique history, architectural style, and cultural significance.

Some of the most iconic and well-known heritage sites in India include :

Taj Mahal : A magnificent mausoleum built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is a testament to the architectural and artistic genius of India’s past.

Red Fort : Located in the heart of Delhi, the Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that symbolizes the power and grandeur of the Mughal Empire.

Qutub Minar : This towering minaret, standing at 73 meters tall, is the tallest brick minaret in the world and a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Humayun’s Tomb : This impressive mausoleum, built in the 16th century, is a fine example of Mughal architecture and a precursor to the more famous Taj Mahal.

Temples at Hampi : The ruins of the ancient city of Hampi, once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of medieval India.

Sanchi Stupa : This ancient Buddhist monument, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, is a remarkable example of the artistic and spiritual traditions of ancient India.

These are just a few of the many heritage sites and monuments that can be found across India, each with its own unique history, cultural significance, and architectural beauty.

Correct Answer :   Indian Institute of Astrophysics

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The project ‘Surya Tilak’, which produced the illumination of the Ram Lalla idol’s forehead on Ram Navami, was designed by a team of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru. The preliminary project design was implemented with four mirrors and two lenses, and the final design will have four mirrors and four lenses.

Abhay Karandikar, the Department of Science and Technology secretary, said that the ritual would be repeated every year. In an X post, Abhay wrote, “Indian Institute of Astrophysics @IIABengaluru, an autonomous body under @IndiaDST, has played a crucial role in the #SuryaTilak Project at #Ayodhya. Sunlight was directed onto the forehead of Sri Ram Lalla at 12 noon on April 17, 2024, on the occasion of Sri #RamNavami in the Chaitra month, and this ritual will be repeated every year.”

Indian Institute of Astrophysics @IIABengaluru, an autonomous body under @IndiaDST, has played a crucial role in the #SuryaTilak Project at #Ayodhya. Sunlight was directed onto the forehead of Sri Ram Lalla at 12 noon on April 17, 2024, on the occasion of Sri #RamNavami in the… pic.twitter.com/NgwxxVtWOC

— Abhay Karandikar (@karandi65) April 17, 2024

Correct Answer :   Abu Dhabi

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The 16th World Future Energy Summit commenced in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (16th April 2024), positioning itself at the forefront of the global discourse on sustainable energy and climate initiatives.

Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, president and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators, opened the summit by emphasizing the need for substantial financial investments to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. She highlighted the pivotal role of blended finance—merging public and private funds—in marshaling the necessary resources for climate action.

Francesco La Camera, director-general of the International Renewable Energy Agency, pointed out the urgency of increasing renewable energy capacity to at least 11 terawatts by 2030. Despite recording the largest increase in renewable power generation in 2023, La Camera noted that the progress still falls short of the needed annual addition of 1,100 gigawatts, with the Global South being particularly impacted.

Organized by Masdar, the state-owned Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, the summit serves as a vital platform for discussing energy and water security, climate change, and sustainable development in the Middle East. Leen Alsebai, head of the summit, described the event as a hub for actionable climate strategies..

Source : Themedialine

Correct Answer :   Nigeria

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Nigeria has become the inaugural nation to introduce the innovative Men5CV vaccine, recommended by the WHO, targeting five strains of meningococcal bacteria. This historic milestone holds immense promise in combating meningitis, a severe threat in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. The vaccine rollout, funded by Gavi, is a crucial step towards achieving the WHO’s goal of eliminating meningitis by 2030.

Tackling Meningitis in Africa :

Nigeria’s initiative is particularly significant as it resides within the African Meningitis Belt, where meningitis outbreaks are prevalent. The region experienced a 50% surge in cases last year, underscoring the urgency of effective intervention strategies.

A Promising Solution :

The Men5CV vaccine offers a comprehensive defense against the five major meningococcal strains, presenting a substantial improvement over existing vaccines, which typically target only one strain. This advancement has the potential to drastically reduce meningitis cases and propel progress towards its eradication.

Collaborative Efforts and Innovative Partnerships :

The development of the Men5CV vaccine underscores the power of collaborative efforts and innovative partnerships. Financing from entities like the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been instrumental in its realization. Additionally, the collaboration between PATH and the Serum Institute of India highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges.

Path to Elimination :

Nigeria’s vaccination campaign marks a significant step towards achieving the objectives outlined in the global roadmap to defeating meningitis by 2030. The upcoming international summit on meningitis in Paris will provide a platform for leaders and stakeholders to assess progress, address challenges, and reaffirm commitments towards eliminating meningitis as a public health threat.

Looking Ahead :

As Nigeria paves the way with its meningitis vaccination campaign, the international community must rally behind similar initiatives to combat infectious diseases worldwide. The introduction of innovative vaccines like Men5CV represents a crucial tool in our collective efforts to safeguard public health and build a healthier, more resilient future for all.

Correct Answer :   Madhya Pradesh

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Madhya Pradesh emerges as a frontrunner in the effective execution of the Green Credit Programme (GCP) initiated by the central government. Over the past two months, the GCP has greenlit tree plantation initiatives spanning across 500 land parcels, encompassing 4,980 hectares spread over 10 states.

Key Achievements and State Rankings :

Madhya Pradesh takes the lead in securing approvals for rehabilitating degraded forest lands, followed closely by Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Assam. Additional states partaking in this initiative include Bihar, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Odisha, collectively earmarking over 10,000 hectares for GCP interventions.

Participation and Scope :

Under the GCP, participation is not restricted to governmental bodies; rather, it welcomes involvement from individuals, industries, philanthropic organizations, and local governing bodies. The programme incentivizes non-carbon environmental actions that foster local ecosystems’ health, emphasizing the selection of indigenous tree species conducive to assisted natural regeneration.

Programme Overview :

The Green Credit Programme (GCP) serves as a market-based mechanism fostering voluntary environmental engagement across diverse sectors. Governed by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee and administered by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), the GCP operates through a dedicated digital platform, ensuring transparent registration and verification processes.

Methodologies and Certification :

To maintain efficacy, the GCP has drafted methodologies establishing benchmarks for various environmental activities. Upon verification, participants receive tradable Green Credit certificates, facilitated by the Green Credit Registry and trading platform developed in collaboration with experts and ICFRE.

Digital Infrastructure and Verification :

* The GCP prioritizes user-friendly digital infrastructure, simplifying project registration, verification, and issuance of Green Credits. While small-scale projects can undergo self-verification, designated agencies oversee larger initiatives, fostering environmental stewardship and sustainable practices across sectors.

* Through concerted efforts and innovative approaches, the Green Credit Programme catalyzes widespread environmental stewardship, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future for all.

Correct Answer :   Saurabh Garg

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The Central Government has entrusted IAS officer Saurabh Garg with the additional charge of Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). This decision, communicated through an order issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), underscores Garg’s extensive experience and expertise in the realm of public administration.

* Garg, a 1991-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Odisha cadre, will serve in this capacity until a regular incumbent is appointed or further directives are issued. This latest appointment highlights the government’s confidence in Garg’s abilities to navigate the complexities and responsibilities associated with the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Strengthening the Statistical Foundation :

* The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation plays a pivotal role in the Indian government’s efforts to gather, analyze, and disseminate statistical data, which serves as the foundation for informed policymaking and decision-making processes. As the new Secretary of this crucial ministry, Saurabh Garg will be tasked with ensuring the continued efficiency and effectiveness of the ministry’s operations.

* Garg’s expertise and experience in the field of public administration will be invaluable in guiding the ministry’s efforts to collect, collate, and disseminate comprehensive statistical data on various aspects of the Indian economy and society. This data, in turn, will assist policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders in formulating and implementing evidence-based policies and strategies that cater to the diverse needs of the nation.

Continuity and Stability in Key Roles :

* Alongside Saurabh Garg’s appointment, the Central Government has also extended the additional charge of Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-India) to IAS officer Vivek Aggarwal for a period of six months.

* Aggarwal, a 1994-batch IAS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been serving in this role since January 2023. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), based on a proposal from the Department of Revenue, has approved the extension of Aggarwal’s tenure, ensuring continuity and stability in the leadership of the FIU-India.

* The Financial Intelligence Unit – India is a crucial agency within the Government of India’s Department of Revenue, responsible for collecting financial intelligence related to crimes covered by the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. Aggarwal’s continued presence at the helm of this agency will contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes and money laundering, which have far-reaching implications for the country’s economic and social well-being.

A Commitment to Effective Governance :

* The Central Government’s decision to appoint Saurabh Garg as the Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, and to extend Vivek Aggarwal’s tenure as the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit – India, reflects the government’s commitment to effective governance and the strategic placement of seasoned bureaucrats in key roles.

* These appointments underscore the importance the government places on maintaining experienced and capable leadership in critical government institutions. By entrusting these esteemed IAS officers with these responsibilities, the government demonstrates its dedication to ensuring the efficient and transparent functioning of these essential ministries and agencies.

Correct Answer :   Apple and CleanMax

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Apple has partnered with CleanMax to deploy 14.4 megawatts of rooftop solar installations across six industrial sites in India, aimed at reducing emissions associated with its operations in the country.

Joint Venture Overview :

Environmental Impact :

Innovative Business Model :