Correct Answer :   Makarand Ranade

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Air Marshal Makarand Ranade assumed the appointment of Director General (Inspection and Safety) [DG (I&S)] at Air HQ New Delhi on 01 December 2023.

An alumnus of National Defence College, New Delhi and College Interarmée de Defense at Paris, France, the Air Marshal was commissioned in the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on 06 December 1986.

In a career spanning over 36 years, the Air Marshal has held key field and staff appointments. These include command of a fighter squadron and two flying stations. He has been a directing staff at Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment as well as at Defence Services Staff College.

He has served as Air Attaché at Embassy of India Kabul, Afghanistan. His staff appointments at Air HQ include Director, Personnel Officers, Principal Director, Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations (Space). Prior to his present appointment, he was the Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Western Air Command, New Delhi.

The Air Marshal was awarded Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) in 2006 and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2020.

He succeeds Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor who superannuated on 30 November 2023 after more than 38 years of distinguished service..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   1st December

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World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1 to spread awareness about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and support those living with the disease.

The first ever World AIDS Day was observed on December 1, 1988. This year, World Health Organisation (WHO) said that the theme is 'let communities lead'.

The UN body said that the theme has been decided to mark the pivotal impact communities have had in shaping the HIV response.


Significance of World AIDS Day :

World AIDS Day is a moment to reflect on the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Over the years, advancements in medical research, increased awareness and improved access to treatment have transformed the landscape of HIV/AIDS management. However, the day also prompts contemplation of the persisting challenges and the work that lies ahead.

Despite considerable progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS endures as a major hurdle. World AIDS Day encourages open conversations, challenging misconceptions, and fostering a more supportive environment for those affected.

Explaining the theme of World AIDS Day 2023 :

UNAIDS, the join United Nations programme on HIV/AIDS, said the theme has been decided to emphasise the importance of communities in spreading awareness about the disease and stopping its spread.

"But communities are being held back in their leadership. Funding shortages, policy and regulatory hurdles, capacity constraints, and crackdowns on civil society and on the human rights of marginalised communities, are obstructing the progress of HIV prevention and treatment services. If these obstacles are removed, community-led organisations can add even greater impetus to the global HIV response, advancing progress towards the end of AIDS," said UNAIDS.

"The end of AIDS is possible, it is within our grasp" says UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima. "To follow the path that ends AIDS, the world needs to let communities lead."..

Source : NDTV

Correct Answer :   Jagdeep Dhankhar

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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will inaugurate the 5th edition of Global Ayurveda Festival in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala 1st Dec 2023. The Global Ayurveda Festival (GAF) 2023 would be held in the state capital of Kerala from 1st December to 5 December 2023.

Theme : The theme 'Emerging Challenges in Healthcare and a Resurgent Ayurveda'.

The largest ever conclave on Ayurveda, GAF 2023 will witness the gathering of international practitioners of this alternative medicine, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore its impact in healthcare,  The conclave will be attended by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Animal Husbandry Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of State and GAF Organizing Committee Chairman V. Muraleedharan, and President of the Republic of Mauritius Prithvirajsing Roopun,Sisira Jayakody, Minister of State for Indigenous Medicine of Sri Lanka, among others.

Delegations from over 70 countries will be present at the event, which underlines the growing recognition of Ayurveda's relevance in addressing global health concerns. The highlights of the festival include experts-led scientific sessions focusing on the latest scientific advancements in Ayurveda, high level industry and institutional participation showcasing innovative Ayurveda-based products, services and research initiatives as well as presentations of posters and papers.

It also said that the National Arogya Fair at GAF will showcase a diverse range of medicinal plants and their utilisation in Ayurvedic preparations. All major Ayush institutions in the country will put up their stalls at the expo and there will be pavilions of 20 Ayurveda colleges. GAF 2023 will also see India's first dedicated Business-to-Business (B2B) meet on Ayurveda medical tourism, connecting healthcare pioneers with worldwide buyers and showcasing the country's wealth of Ayurvedic healthcare resources.

A free medical camp, with 25 specialty clinics, outpatient services of top Ayurveda physicians on all five days at the venue, free distribution of medicines worth Rs 15 lakh and a spacious 'Ayurveda Aahar' food court serving a wide variety of healthy food are the other attractions of GAF 2023..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Ashwini Vaishnaw

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Homegrown Dixon Technologies, electronic manufacturing services company, will produce Xiaomi smartphones at its Noida factory, which was inaugurated by Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday (30th Nov 2023).

Padget Electronics, a subsidiary of Dixon Technologies, has announced that the production of Xiaomi handsets will be done at its recently established Noida factory, backed by an investment worth Rs 256 crore, the media has reported.

This is likely to create approximately 5,000 new jobs. Dixon's manufacturing facility boasts an annual production capacity of 25 million units.

“We have seen complex manufacturing at the new Dixon facility which is an answer to those who say India is only assembling phones and not manufacturing them,” the minister was quoted as saying by news agency IANS.

Vaishnaw also acknowledged India's emergence as an smartphone export hub. This development comes in the wake of India encouraging IT hardware manufacturers to manufacture devices locally.

With the objective of exporting 30 per cent of the total production capacity within the next two to three years, Dixon Technologies has invested almost Rs 300 crore in its Noida plant for manufacturing Xiaomi smartphones, a report by GQ Prime mentioned.

"It is a momentous step towards our commitment to boosting the local smartphone manufacturing ecosystem in India. We believe that this association will leverage our excellence and superior execution and Xiaomi's expertise and leadership in the Indian business ecosystem," Sunil Vachani, Executive Chairman of Dixon Technologies was quoted as saying.

To recall, earlier in may, Xiaomi and Noida-headquartered contract manufacturer Dixon Technologies joined hands, with an aim to manufacture mobile phones for exporting. Representatives from both firms had met Minister of State for IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar with the proposed initiative. Xiaomi has been locally assembling most of the smartphones and TVs that it sells in the country..

Source : ABP Live

Correct Answer :   Nagaland

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Nagaland, a vibrant state in the northeastern region of India, is jubilantly celebrating its 61st Statehood Day on December 1, 2023. This marks a significant milestone in the historical journey of the Nagas, who became the 16th state of the Union of India on December 1, 1963.

The state-level function, to be held at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat Kohima, promises a day filled with cultural richness, reflections on the past and a focus on the future.


Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s Address : The day’s festivities will commence with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio taking the general salute and delivering an address to the people of Nagaland. In this address, he is expected to not only celebrate the achievements and opportunities since statehood but also unveil key initiatives for the future. Among these initiatives are the launch of the Nagaland School Safety Policy Digital Training Platform and the Nagaland Disaster Risk Reduction Road Map. These platforms are crucial steps toward ensuring the safety and resilience of the state.


Inauguration of “Nagaland at 60” Photo Exhibition : A notable feature of the celebration is the inauguration of a photo exhibition titled “Nagaland at 60,” organized by the Department of Information & Public Relations. This exhibition will provide a visual journey through Nagaland’s rich history, capturing the essence of its culture, diversity and progress over the past six decades.

Special Performances and Cultural Presentation : Adding to the cultural vibrancy of the day, a special performance by the 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Band, finalists of India’s Got Talent 2023, is anticipated. The cultural presentation will showcase the artistic and traditional heritage of Nagaland, reflecting the unity that transcends tribes and languages.


Governor’s Greetings and Reflections :

Nagaland Governor La Ganesan has extended warm greetings to the people on this auspicious occasion. In his message, he emphasized the significance of the 61st Statehood Day, recognizing it as a moment that commemorates the historical journey of the Nagas and their collective dreams for a vibrant state. The Governor highlighted the vision and contributions of pioneers and leaders who shaped Nagaland into a diverse and resilient state.

Governor Ganesan stressed the responsibility of every citizen in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Nagaland. He acknowledged the perseverance and undying faith that form that cornerstone of Nagaland’s identity. The governor applauded the inherent sense of community among the Nagas, transcending tribes and languages, presenting itself as an indomitable force capable of overcoming adversities and challenges.


Challenges and Aspirations : Addressing challenging such as unemployment, the quest for enduring peace and equitable growth, Governor Ganesan emphasized that progress must touch every corner of Nagaland. He called upon citizens to contribute actively towards shaping Nagaland as a state that embodies dreams and aspirations.


Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s Reflection : Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in social media post, extended greetings on the occasion, inviting reflection on the journey made so far. He highlighted the resilience and collective efforts that have shaped Nagaland’s identity. Mr. Rio paid homage to the past leaders who paved the way for the state’s formation with special constitutional guarantees, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping the destiny of Nagaland..

Correct Answer :   Shane Dowrich

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Former West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Shane Dowrich has retired from international cricket and withdrawn from the squad for a one-day international series against England, the country's cricket board (CWI) said on Thursday (30th Nov 2023).

Dowrich this month earned a surprise recall to the West Indies squad, three years after he played his last test and four years since he featured in his only ODI.

The 32-year-old played in 35 tests, scoring 1570 runs with a high score of 125 not out against Sri Lanka in 2018. He also had 85 catches and five stumpings as a wicketkeeper.

"We want to thank Shane for contribution when he played for West Indies. He is a disciplined, hard-working cricketer who always gave his utmost in front and behind the stumps," CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe said.

"We respect his decision to retire and appreciate it is not an easy one to make. We wish him all the best as he steps away from the international stage.".

Source : Reuters

Correct Answer :   Deoghar

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation the 10,000th Jan Aushadhi Kendra at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Deoghar on Thursday (30th Nov 2023) via video conferencing. He pledged to set up altogether 25,000 such facilities in near future in the country.

The PM also interacted with a few beneficiaries of Jan Aushadhi Kendra, which provides medicines to poor at discounted rates.

“I had to incur expense between Rs 12,000-13000 per month on medicines which has now got reduced to Rs 3,000," one of the beneficiaries from Deoghar, who eke out living by selling pakodas, shared his experience with Modi.

“Due to proactive support of the people, the government’s initiative has turned into a campaign and has become so popular that we could set up 10,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the country even before the deadline of March 2024," the PM said.

He also announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Mahila Kisan Drone Kendra aimed to help women SHGs. Under the scheme 15,000 drones will be provided to SHGs on rent for assistance in farming. Using the drones, they could spray manures and pesticides in their farmlands.

"The farmers of the country will be able to get their hands on the modern technology and equipment like drones at a very low cost thereby helping them to save time, medicines and fertilizers," the PM said.

Union minister of health, chemicals and fertilizers, Mansukh L Mandaviya, Godda BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and AIIIMS officials were among those present on the occasion on the AIIMS premises in Deoghar. Mandaviya also visited the under-construction factory of the IFFCO's Nano fertiliser plant in Jasidih..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Riyadh

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The Expo 2030 world’s fair will be held in Riyadh in another hosting victory for a Gulf country after Qatar put on football’s World Cup last year.

South Korea’s Busan and Italy’s Rome were also in the running to host the world’s fair, a once-every-five-year event that attracts millions of visitors and billions of dollars in investment.

Saudi Arabia’s capital won 119 votes, Busan 29 and Rome 17, results from 182 members of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) showed on Tuesday (28th Nov 2023). Saudi Arabia needed to garner two-thirds of the votes to win in the first round.

The Italian contestants were scathing in their criticism of the result.

“This huge result for Saudi was unexpected in those proportions,” Giampiero Massolo, head of the Italian Expo bid, told reporters. “It is no longer about the merits but about transactions.”

“27th Nov 2023 it was a soccer championship. Tomorrow (28th Nov 2023) it will be the Olympics,” he added.

Saudi Arabia, as the only declared candidate, is set to host the 2034 World Cup and is also planning an Olympics bid.

Riyadh had enlisted football star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for the capital’s Al Nassr club, to persuade BIE members in a video shown before the vote. The city has proposed to host the event from October 2030 to March 2031.

The win is the icing on the cake for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ambitious Vision 2030 programme, which aims to wean the country off its oil dependency.

“We had a fantastic team of ministers going around the world, engaging our counterparts in a very, very active way to understand what they expected, what they were looking for and what we should deliver in order to gain their trust,” Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said.

Critics said the crown prince wants to use the expo to improve his country’s image after the 2018 murder of prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by a team of Saudi agents..


Source : Aljazeera

Correct Answer :   30 November

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Every year on November 30, the world solemnly observes the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare. This day, designated by the United Nations, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating toll of chemical warfare on both troops and civilians. It reflects on the grim reality of conflict, honors the lives lost, and underscores the ongoing efforts to eliminate the use of chemical weapons.


History of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The historical journey towards mitigating the horrors of chemical warfare began in 1675 with a treaty signed by France and Germany, outlawing the use of poison bullets. Subsequent agreements, including the Brussels Convention of 1874 and the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907, aimed to restrict toxic weapons and dangerous gases in combat. A pivotal moment occurred in 1993 with the passage of the Chemical Weapons Convention, a global commitment to ending the use of chemical weapons.


Significance of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

In 2005, the United Nations officially declared November 30 as the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare. This designation acknowledges historical agreements, honors victims, and raises awareness about the ongoing threats posed by chemical weapons. The day emphasizes the necessity of upholding international agreements for lasting peace and security.


Objective of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The primary objective of this day is to honor and mourn the lives lost due to chemical warfare, whether military or civilian. It aims to raise global awareness about the ban on chemical weapons, highlighting the associated risks as Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs). Additionally, it underscores the importance of upholding international law to prevent similar atrocities.

Mission of Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare :

The heartfelt mission of the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare is to honor and remember those who succumbed to the brutality of war. It serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict, acknowledges progress in safeguarding future generations, and underscores the need to address unresolved issues surrounding chemical weapons.


How to Observe the Day :

This Day of Remembrance serves as a crucial platform for fostering a collective commitment to peace and eliminating the use of chemical weapons worldwide.

Correct Answer :   Nepal

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The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, took a bold step by explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. Nepal became the first South Asian country to formally register a case of same-sex marriage.

This event occurred in the Dordi Rural Municipality of Lamjung district in Western Nepal, where the union of trans-woman Maya Gurung, 35, and gay man Surendra Pandey, 27, was legally recognized.


Legal Progression for Same-Sex Marriage in Nepal :

In 2007, Nepal’s Supreme Court had already set the stage by allowing same-sex marriage, laying the foundation for the recent groundbreaking development. Fast forward to June 27, 2023, when the Supreme Court issued an interim order in response to a writ petition, temporarily legalizing same-sex marriage. This interim order marked a significant leap toward the official recognition of the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Nepal.


A Brief Setback :

Despite the Supreme Court’s interim order, the path to same-sex marriage faced a hurdle when, four months ago, the Kathmandu District Court rejected the marriage application of Surendra Pandey and Maya Gurung. The rejection was based on the absence of specific laws addressing same-sex marriage, underscoring the need for legislative support.

Maya and Surendra’s Resilience :

Surendra Pandey, a 27-year-old gay man from Nawalparasi district, and Maya Gurung, a 35-year-old trans-woman from Lamjung district, demonstrated resilience and commitment to their relationship. The couple, living together as husband and wife for the past six years, navigated societal challenges and sought approval from their families, marrying in the traditional manner.


Historic Significance for the Third Gender Community :

Sanjib Gurung (Pinky), president of the Blue Diamond Society, an organization advocating for the rights and welfare of sexual minorities in Nepal, expressed great pleasure at the historic development. Pinky emphasized that this achievement is not only a milestone for Nepal but for the entire South Asian region. The event sets a precedent for the recognition and validation of the third-gender community, providing hope and encouragement for others who have lived without their identities and rights.


Opening Doors for Legal Recognition :

The broader impact of this first same-sex marriage registration marks the beginning of a positive change for the third-gender community. Necessary laws will be formulated to grant automatic permanent recognition. This empowerment will encourage more individuals within the LGBTQ+ community to seek legal recognition for their unions.