Correct Answer :   Amit Shah

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Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC) in New Delhi. This umbrella organization aims to modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector, benefiting banks and customers alike.

Key Points :

1. Focus on Modernization and Expansion :


2. Inclusive Economic Development :


3. Trustworthiness and Growth :

4. Role of NUCFDC :

5. Strengthening Collective Strength :


6. Addressing Challenges :


7. Future Goals :

Correct Answer :   March 3

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World Hearing Day 2024 will be held on Sunday, March 3. On this day, efforts are directed towards countering common misperceptions regarding ear and hearing problems in communities and among healthcare providers.

The day emphasises the importance of accurate information to alter public perceptions and calls on countries and civil society to tackle misperceptions related to hearing loss for equitable access to ear and hearing care

World Hearing Day 2024 Theme :  

* The theme for World Hearing Day 2024 is "Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all!"

* This theme underscores the importance of addressing societal misperceptions related to ear and hearing care.

World Hearing Day 2024 History :  

* The roots of World Hearing Day can be traced back to the First International Conference on Prevention and Rehabilitation of Hearing Impairment in Beijing, China, in 2007.

* The conference marked the initiation of global endeavours to address hearing-related issues. In 2014, the World Health Assembly designated March 3 as World Hearing Day. The chosen date, symbolic of the shape of two ears, has since become an annual occasion to spotlight hearing care and the impact of hearing loss on individuals and communities.

World Hearing Day 2024 Significance :

* World Hearing Day holds immense significance in promoting global awareness about hearing loss and its impact. The day underscores the importance of early detection and intervention, advocating for improved access to hearing care services, and fostering collaborations to address challenges related to hearing loss.

* By reducing stigma, advocating for access to care, and highlighting the economic impact of hearing loss, World Hearing Day contributes to creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy good hearing health..

Source : NDTV

Correct Answer :   March 3

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World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect and preserve the world’s fauna and flora. In 2024, this day draws particular attention to the role of digital innovation in wildlife conservation, underlining the theme “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.” This occasion is not only a celebration but a global call to action, urging individuals, communities, and governments worldwide to engage in practices that contribute to the sustainability of our planet’s biodiversity.

World Wildlife Day-History and Background :

The inception of World Wildlife Day traces back to a proposal made by Thailand to the United Nations General Assembly in 2013. The proposal aimed at dedicating a day to raise awareness about the world’s wild animals and plants. Consequently, March 3 was officially designated as World Wildlife Day in 2014, following the adoption of a resolution by the General Assembly on December 20, 2013. This date also marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Significance of World Wildlife Day 2024 :

The significance of World Wildlife Day has never been more pronounced. Amidst the escalating challenges of biodiversity loss, habitat destruction, and climate change, this day offers a critical platform for raising awareness and mobilizing action. It underscores the intrinsic value of wildlife and the indispensable role it plays in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting human well-being.

World Wildlife Day 2024 Theme :

The theme for World Wildlife Day 2024, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” highlights the potential of technology in advancing conservation efforts. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s digital era, where technological advancements can offer novel solutions to longstanding conservation challenges. Digital tools and platforms have the power to enhance monitoring and protection efforts, support sustainable wildlife trade practices, and foster positive human-wildlife relations.

Correct Answer :   Dharmendra Pradhan

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Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan launched Project ODISERV today (2nd Mar 2024) aimed at preparing young graduates from Odisha for employment opportunities in the financial services sector. Addressing the gathering, Pradhan emphasized that Project ODISERV will empower the nation's youth, enhancing their employability and helping them achieve their career aspirations. He highlighted the role of NEP 2020 in bridging the gap between education and skill development, fostering greater synergy and enabling students to acquire both job-ready skills and academic knowledge simultaneously.

He informed that 1100 students in Odisha have already been trained under Project ODISERV and a few of them have also received job offers today. He congratulated all the candidates who have been placed today. Pradhan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, for envisioning of making India’s youth future and industry ready. Project ODISERV is a perfect example of industry-academia collaboration, he added.

Pradhan also mentioned that the 100-hour training program will equip Odisha’s youth with crucial skills required in the banking, finance and insurance industries. The training program will boost competencies, increase the employability of Yuva Shakti of Odisha and prepare a future-ready workforce, he said.

Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Bajaj Finserv, said that skilling and employment of youth will power the demographic dividend and is key to achieving India’s goal of becoming the world’s third largest economy. Skilling is thus integral to Bajaj Finserv’s social impact initiatives, he said. He mentioned how the CPBFI programme was started to fill the talent gap in the financial services sector and how the family incomes of beneficiaries increase significantly when participants secure employment after their certification. He also said that their partnership with NSDC will help scale up CPBFI in colleges across India. The launch of Project Odiserv is significant as Odisha gears to emerge as a hub for entrepreneurship and start-ups through the recently announced 100 cube initiative, Bajaj said.

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Bajaj Finserv Ltd. today unveiled their first skill development initiative - Project Odiserv at Gangadhar Meher University (GMU) in Sambalpur, Odisha. Project Odiserv is the inaugural skill development initiative, following the partnership announced by NSDC and Bajaj Finserv in December 2023 in the presence of Dharmendra Pradhan.

The project will impart knowledge and skills to graduates, especially first-generation graduates, through Bajaj Finserv’s Certificate Programme for Banking Finance & Insurance (CPBFI) programme, a 100-hour comprehensive training programme that prepares youth from tier-II and tier-III cities for employment in the financial services sector. The launch of Project Odiserv is expected to transform the landscape of skill development in Odisha.

Project Odiserv envisages launching the CPBFI programme in 60 colleges of Odisha across 11 cities and 10 districts including Sambalpur, Dhenkanal, Angul, Cuttack, Khordha, Balasore and Puri. Some of the colleges covered include Bhuban Women’s Degree College, Mathakaragola Degree College, Sambalpur University and SCS College. Of this, CPBFI has already been launched in 30 colleges, enrolling 1100 students and delivering 25,000 hours of training in a short span of two months.

Under the partnership with NSDC & Bajaj Finserv will introduce the CPBFI programme in 22 states across India, covering over 400 colleges. The partnership aims to initially build the capabilities of 20,000 candidates through the CPBFI programme. The 100-hour programme is developed in collaboration with industry experts, training partners, educational institutions, and psychological health institutes. The programme’s curriculum adapts to the ever-evolving landscape of finance, banking, and insurance and incorporates the latest industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices..

Source : ABP Live

Correct Answer :   Hyderabad

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On 28th February 2024, a 21-foot statue of Rajput king Maharana Pratap was installed and unveiled at Maharana Pratap Chowk in Begum Bazaar, Hyderabad. It is claimed to be the first of its kind in Telangana.

The unveiling of a 21-feet statue of Maharana Pratap at the Begum Bazar Maharana Pratap Chowk marked a significant moment for Hyderabad. This statue, the largest of its kind in the city, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the revered Rajput warrior, encapsulating his spirit for generations to come.

A Symbol of Pride and Resilience

Maharana Pratap, also known as Pratap Singh I, was a legendary king of Mewar, a region in present-day Rajasthan, India. He remains etched in history for his valiant leadership during the Rajput resistance against the expansionist policies of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Battles like Haldighati and Dewair stand as poignant chapters in his saga, elevating him to the status of a folk hero among the Rajputs.

The Making of the Statue

Crafted with meticulous detail and weighing a remarkable two tonnes, the majestic statue was brought to life by the skilled hands of artist Sunder Singh over a span of three months. Its unveiling heralds not only the physical presence of a grand monument but also a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Maharana Pratap that continues to inspire generations.

The Visionary Leader Behind the Initiative

At the heart of this monumental endeavor stands Thakur Surender Singh, a dynamic youth leader from the Rajput community. His unwavering dedication and relentless efforts culminated in the realization of this monumental project. The entire Rajput community stands grateful for his tireless commitment to preserving their heritage and honoring their illustrious history.

A Gathering of Unity and Pride

Beyond the boundaries of Begum Bazar, members and leaders of the Rajput community from across the state converged to be part of this historic occasion. Their collective presence symbolizes a sense of unity, pride, and reverence for Maharana Pratap, whose legacy continues to resonate through the corridors of history.

Honoring a Timeless Legacy

As the veil lifts on this magnificent statue, Hyderabad pays homage to a timeless legacy of courage, resilience, and valor. Maharana Pratap’s statue at Begum Bazar Chowk stands not only as a symbol of reverence but also as a reminder of the enduring spirit that defines the Rajput ethos.’

Correct Answer :   Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

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Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has achieved a major milestone in clean energy by commissioning its first domestically manufactured electrolyser at the Green Hydrogen Plant in Hazira, Gujarat. This marks the entry of L&T Electrolysers Limited into domestic electrolyser manufacturing, showcasing the company’s dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Advanced Electrolyser Specifications

* Boasts a robust power capacity of 1 MW, with the potential for expansion up to 2 MW.
* Capable of producing 200 Nm3/Hr of hydrogen, showcasing its efficiency and productivity.
* Features two stacks and an Electrolyser Processing Unit (EPU) ML-400, all manufactured and assembled locally, adhering to stringent international standards.

L&T Electrolysers Limited: Spearheading the Initiative

* A newly established entity, L&T Electrolysers Limited, emerges as a front-runner in manufacturing pressurized alkaline electrolysers.
* Collaborates extensively with Indian vendors and suppliers, setting a high standard for the “Make in India” initiative and fostering indigenous technological capabilities.

Expansion Plans and Localization Strategy

* Seizing the opportunity, L&T Electrolysers plans to leverage its forthcoming giga-scale facility in Hazira to cater to the burgeoning demand for clean energy solutions.
* By prioritizing localization efforts and implementing advanced automation, the company aims to enhance its competitiveness and ensure sustainability in its operations.

Leadership Perspectives: Driving Innovation and Vision

* Mr. Subramanian Sarma, Whole-time Director & Sr EVP (Energy), L&T, underscores the transformative impact of the indigenously manufactured electrolyser, positioning L&T as a global leader in the clean energy sector.
* Mr. Derek M Shah, Sr VP & Head – Green Energy Business, L&T, emphasizes the profound significance of empowering the Indian supply chain and aligning with the national vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

Government Support and Recognition

* L&T Electrolysers secures a substantial allocation of 300 MW/annum capacity under the prestigious Production Linked Incentive (PLI) initiative of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Pioneering the Future of Clean Energy Production

* In essence, L&T’s milestone achievement in commissioning its indigenous electrolyser marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards sustainable energy transformation.
* With a strong emphasis on local manufacturing and technological innovation, L&T Electrolysers is poised to play a defining role in shaping the future of clean energy production in the nation.

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (1st Mar 2024) inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for an array of development projects worth Rs 7,200 crore in Arambagh, situated in West Bengal's Hooghly district. The projects span diverse sectors including rail, ports, oil pipeline, LPG supply, and wastewater treatment.

In his address, PM Modi underscored India's rapid strides in the 21st century and reiterated the nation's commitment to achieving full development by 2047. He emphasized the government's dedication to empowering various segments of society, including youth, women, farmers, and the underprivileged, highlighting the tangible impact of policies in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty.

Highlighting the significance of the inaugurated projects, valued at over Rs 7,000 crore, PM Modi stressed their role in accelerating West Bengal's development across multiple fronts including rail infrastructure, ports, petroleum, and water resources. He underscored efforts to modernize the state's railways, citing initiatives such as the third rail line connecting Jhargram - Salgajhari and the doubling of key rail routes.

PM Modi commended India's ability to pursue development while safeguarding the environment, citing projects like the Haldia-Barauni crude oil pipeline. He also emphasized the far-reaching benefits of initiatives such as the LPG bottling plant and sewage treatment plants, which will serve multiple states and enhance living standards for lakhs of people.

Addressing the employment potential generated by infrastructure projects, PM Modi revealed a substantial budget allocation of over Rs 13,000 crore for railway development in West Bengal. He outlined completed projects from the past decade, including railway electrification, station redevelopment, new train services, and the introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains.

Expressing confidence in achieving the goals of a developed India with the support of West Bengal's people, PM Modi extended his best wishes for the success of the projects.

Dignitaries present at the event included West Bengal Governor Dr. C V Ananda Bose and Union Minister of State for Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   $619.072

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India’s forex reserves experienced a notable increase, rising by $2.975 billion to reach $619.072 billion for the week ending February 23, as reported by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This surge follows a previous week where reserves had slightly decreased by $1.132 billion.

Major Components

1. Foreign Currency Assets :


2. Gold Reserves :


3. Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) :


4. Reserve Position with the IMF :

Historical Perspective

India’s forex reserves achieved an all-time high of $645 billion in October 2021, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic landscape.

Correct Answer :   56.9

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India’s manufacturing sector continued its expansion in February, as indicated by the HSBC Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reaching 56.9, marking its highest level in five months. This data, released on March 1st, surpassed the initial estimate of 56.7 announced on February 22nd, 2024.

Consistent Expansion : The February manufacturing PMI of 56.9 extends the sector’s expansion streak for the 32nd consecutive month, remaining above the critical threshold of 50, which separates growth from contraction.

GDP Growth : The release of the manufacturing PMI closely follows the announcement by the statistics ministry regarding India’s GDP growth of 8.4 percent in the October-December 2023 period. However, it notes a moderation in the manufacturing sector’s gross value added growth, which dropped to 11.6 percent from 14.4 percent in the previous quarter.

Trend Analysis : In comparison to the previous quarters, the manufacturing PMI averaged at 57.9 in July-September 2023 and 55.5 in the subsequent quarter. The first two months of 2024 have shown a consistent average of 56.7, indicating a stable performance.

Correct Answer :   1 March

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Every year on March 1, the world comes together to celebrate World Civil Defence Day. This international event serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters.

WORLD CIVIL DEFENCE DAY HISTORY :

World Civil Defence Day was first established in 1990 by the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO) to commemorate the anniversary of the adoption of the ICDO's Constitution. Since then, it has grown into a significant global platform for raising awareness about the vital role civil defence plays in protecting communities.

SIGNIFICANCE OF WORLD CIVIL DEFENCE DAY :

World Civil Defence Day holds immense significance on a global scale:

Raising Awareness : It serves as a critical platform to raise public awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness and preventive measures.
Promoting Collaboration : It encourages collaboration between different entities, fostering a shared responsibility for building safer communities.
Enhancing Preparedness : It emphasises the need for proactive measures like developing emergency plans, conducting drills, and stockpiling essential supplies.
Building Resilience : It encourages communities to build resilience in the face of emergencies and disasters, minimising the potential loss of life and property.

World Civil Defence Day serves as a crucial reminder that we all have a role to play in ensuring our communities are prepared for unforeseen circumstances. By embracing collective responsibility and actively participating in preparedness initiatives, we can build a safer and more resilient future for ourselves and generations to come..

Source : India Today