Correct Answer :   26th July 2024

---

The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to redefine the traditional Opening Ceremony with its captivating approach and what is expected to be a true sight to behold. On 26th July 2024, the world will witness the first Olympic Games Opening Ceremony held outside a stadium, transforming the French capital into a grand theatre.

This ambitious celebration will see the traditional parade of athletes taking place in boats along the river Seine, passing by the most iconic landmarks of Paris. The traditional tracks will be ditched for the river this time.

Guests and viewers will be treated to a vibrant river parade through the heart of the French capital, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning architecture. The Seine, the city's main water artery, will substitute for the traditional track, with the quays becoming spectator stands. The setting sun reflecting off famous Parisian landmarks will provide a breathtaking backdrop for the event.

This innovative concept makes Paris 2024 the largest Opening Ceremony in terms of audience and geographical coverage. Starting from the Austerlitz Bridge next to the Jardin des Plantes, the flotilla will travel west for six kilometres, passing under historic bridges and iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame and the Louvre. The route will also pass by some Games venues, including the Esplanade des Invalides and the Grand Palais.

Almost 100 boats carrying an estimated 10,500 athletes will float along the Seine during the parade. The larger National Olympic Committees will have boats for themselves, while smaller ones will share boats. Camera equipment set up on the decks will allow spectators to see the athletes up close and witness their emotions as they make this historic journey.

The flotilla will ultimately arrive opposite the Trocadéro, the esplanade across from the Eiffel Tower, where the official protocols will be carried out, the Olympic cauldron lit, and the Paris 2024 Games officially declared open. The unique setting and ambitious execution will undoubtedly make this Opening Ceremony one of the most memorable in Olympic history..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Aizawl

---

Aizawl in Mizoram will be the fourth capital city of the North-East region to come under railway connectivity by July next year (2025).

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is laying a new broad gauge (BG) track up to Sairang near Aizawl.

Guwahati (adjacent to the capital Dispur), Agartala, the capital of Tripura and Naharlagun (adjacent to the capital city Itanagar) in Arunachal Pradesh are already connected by the railway network.

Correct Answer :   Swiss Open

---

Indian tennis player Yuki Bhambri along with Albano Olivetti of France recently won the doubles title of Swiss Open 2024.

The Swiss Open Gstaad 2024 was held from 15 to 21 July 2024 in the city of Gstaad, Switzerland. It is an ATP 250 event played on clay courts.

Correct Answer :   6.22 lakh crore

---

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has been allocated a record Rs 6.22 lakh crore in the regular Union Budget for the financial year 2024-25, the highest allocation among all ministries.

The total allocation is 18.43% higher than the previous financial year, with 27.66% earmarked for capital expenditure.

Correct Answer :   1.5°C

---

Azerbaijan's COP29 has announced the Climate Finance Action Fund (CFAF) to support green projects in developing countries, specifically aiming to help member nations achieve the 1.5°C temperature target.

This target is crucial for mitigating the severe impacts of climate change and aligns with international climate agreements.

The CFAF, funded by contributions from fossil fuel producers and other sources, will focus on financing clean energy technology and enhancing climate resilience.

This initiative highlights the urgent need for collective action to limit global temperature rise and safeguard the planet's future.

Correct Answer :   2012

---

The angel tax, introduced in 2012 under Section 56(2)(vii B) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, was designed to curb black money laundering through inflated share sales by taxing excess funds raised above fair market value at a rate of 30.9%.

Recently, in the Union Budget 2024-25, the Union Minister for Finance proposed to abolish the angel tax for all classes of investors. This decision aims to boost investment in startups and simplify the tax landscape for emerging businesses.

Correct Answer :   Hockey

---

PR Sreejesh is a prominent figure in hockey. He has had an illustrious career as the Indian hockey goalkeeper, contributing significantly to the team's success, including a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.

Sreejesh has been recognized with numerous accolades such as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and the Padma Shri, and his leadership has been instrumental in the resurgence of Indian hockey.

Correct Answer :   Assam

---

Charaideo Maidam, located in Assam, has been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, aiming to be North East India’s first cultural site on the list.

These ancient burial mounds, constructed for Ahom kings and nobles, are of great historical and cultural significance.

The nomination, announced by Prime Minister Modi, highlights Assam's rich heritage and seeks to recognize the unique practices and traditions of the Ahom community, marking an important step in preserving and promoting Assamese culture globally.

Correct Answer :   Golfer

---

Vani Kapoor is a professional golfer who recently performed exceptionally well at the Dutch Ladies Open, finishing T-20 with a 2-under 70.

Her performance was notable among the three Indian participants, with three birdies and one bogey in her round.

The Dutch Ladies Open is part of the Ladies European Tour, highlighting Vani Kapoor's prominence in the sport of golf.

Correct Answer :   Manolo Marquez

---

Manolo Marquez was appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s football team by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on July 20, 2024.

Marquez, a Spaniard with extensive coaching experience in India and abroad, has previously transformed Hyderabad FC into ISL champions and led FC Goa to significant achievements.

His track record of developing young Indian players and his success in the Indian Super League (ISL) make him an ideal choice for the national team head coach position.