Correct Answer :   12.5%

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India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection witnessed a significant surge of 12.5% year-on-year, reaching Rs 1.68 lakh crore in February, as stated by the government. This figure marks a notable increase from the Rs 1.50 lakh crore collected during the corresponding period last year.

* 12.5% Year-on-Year Increase : February’s GST collection rose by 12.5% compared to the same month in the previous year, showcasing robust growth in tax revenues.

* Exceeds Previous Year’s Average : The finance ministry highlighted that the average monthly gross collection for the fiscal year 2023/24 stands at Rs 1.67 lakh crore, surpassing the corresponding period of the previous year.

* Ambitious Fiscal Target : The government has set an ambitious target of Rs 9.57 lakh crore for GST collection in the current fiscal year, reflecting confidence in economic recovery and tax compliance measures.

Correct Answer :   Nicholas Pooran

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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday (29th Feb 2024) announced that West Indies wicketkeeper Nicholas Pooran has been appointed as their new vice-captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The West Indies star will take over as captain KL Rahul's deputy from all-rounder Krunal Pandya. Rahul handed Pooran the vice-captain's jersey with the number 29 on the back at an event on Wednesday (28th Feb 2024).

KL Rahul (C)
Nicholas Pooran (VC)

This season feels special already ? pic.twitter.com/367JTTeSHL

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) February 29, 2024

Pooran, a Trinidadian cricketer known for his explosive batting and adept wicket-keeping, has been a key player in the T20 format globally. His journey with the IPL began with stints at various teams, including Punjab and Hyderabad, before joining Lucknow Super Giants in 2023 for a whopping INR 16 crore.

Pooran, who was playing ahead of South Africa's Quinton de Kock last season, made 15 appearances for LSG in IPL 2024, scoring 358 runs, with two fifties, at an impressive strike rate of 172.94. He has held leadership positions in various teams, including the national team, and will now take on this role for the first time with an IPL team. Notably, Krunal Pandya had filled in for Rahul when the captain was out for a few games in both the first and second season. Pandya won three and lost two of his six matches as captain, with one match ending in a draw..

Source : India Today

Correct Answer :   Sunil Bharti Mittal

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Bharti Enterprises founder and chairman, Sunil Bharti Mittal has become the first Indian citizen to receive an Honorary Knighthood from United Kingdom's King Charles III.

The award grants Mr. Mittal the title of Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, recognising his contributions to fostering stronger business ties between India and the UK.

The 66-year-old entrepreneur in a statement said that UK and India share historical relations, which are now entering a new era of increased cooperation and collaboration.

An honorary Knighthood is one of the highest honours granted by the British Sovereign to civilians, conferred upon foreign nationals in recognition of their exceptional contributions..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Bengali

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The recipient of this year’s (2024) Romain Rolland Book Prize is Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee for his remarkable translation of Jean-Daniel Baltassat’s “Le Divan de Staline” into Bengali, titled “Staliner Divan.”

Published by New Bharat Sahitya Kutir, Kolkata, Chatterjee’s translation stood out for its linguistic prowess and fidelity to the original text. This marks the second time that a Bengali translation has been honoured with this prestigious award.

About the Winning Translation :

“Le Divan de Staline” delves into a pivotal episode in the life of Joseph Stalin, the Soviet leader. Set in his native Georgia, the novel portrays Stalin grappling with insomnia and haunted by ghosts from his past. The narrative unfolds as Stalin interacts with his mistress, Vodieva, who assumes the role of a psychoanalyst, and awaits a young painter, Danilov, presenting a monument in his honor. Through vivid imagery and evocative storytelling, Jean-Daniel Baltassat presents Stalin not as a benevolent figure but as a tyrant consumed by cruelty and ruthlessness.

Recognition and Significance :

* The recognition of Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee’s translation highlights the growing appreciation for diverse literary voices and cultural exchanges. By bringing French literature to Bengali readers, Chatterjee’s work enriches the literary landscape and promotes cross-cultural understanding.

Publisher and Translator’s Acknowledgment :

* New Bharatiya Sahitya Kutir, the publishing house behind the winning translation, and Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee, the translator, will be honored with invitations to prestigious literary events. The publisher will attend the Paris Book Market in May 2024, while the translator will participate in the Paris Book Fair in April 2024, organized by the French Institute in India.

* This recognition not only celebrates the art of translation but also underscores the power of literature in bridging cultures and fostering mutual understanding.

Correct Answer :   18

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India ended its campaign by winning a total of 18 medals at the Asian Track Cycling Championships 2024 that concluded on 26 February 2024. This competition was organized from 21 to 26 February at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, New Delhi.

Para and junior players performed best :

* India's 20-member junior and para teams performed well and won 18 medals. There are nine gold, six silver and three bronze medals in total.
* In this competition, para players performed best and contributed eight gold and four silver medals to India's medal tally. In this way, para players won a total of 14 medals for India.
* The remaining medals for India were won by junior players. Sarita Kumari, Niya Sebastian, Sabina Kumari and Zaina Mohammed Ali Peerkhan won gold for India in the junior women's team sprint.
* On the final day, India's Harshita Jakhar won the bronze medal in the women's junior madison category. Earlier, she had won a silver medal in the individual pursuit and a bronze medal in the team pursuit.
* On the last day of the championship, India's Harshita Jakhar and Dhanyadha JP won the bronze medal in the junior women's madison event.
* This is Harshita's third medal in the championship and second medal in the team event. Earlier he had won silver medal in individual pursuit and bronze medal in team pursuit.

Top cyclists disappointed :

The three top-ranked countries in the championship were :

Malaysia topped the Asian Track Cycling Championships 2024 with 37 medals. Whereas Japan got 24 medals and Korea got 23 medals and got second and third place respectively in this competition. This can be seen as follows :

Correct Answer :   New Zealand

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Wagner fought back tears as he told reporters he had decided to call time on a 64-Test career after New Zealand Cricket said he would not be in the side for Thursday's (29th Feb 2024) match in Wellington.

"It's never an easy time to do something like this, but the time has obviously come," said the 37-year-old Wagner, who has taken 260 Test wickets.

* "It's been amazing to represent the Black Caps. It's been some of the proudest moments of my life.

* Fiery short-ball specialist Wagner said he would leave the squad before the start of next week's second Test in Christchurch.

* "I'm looking forward to one final week in camp and will be doing everything I can to help prepare and support the boys," he said.

* Wagner cited last year's one-run victory over England in Wellington, where he took the last wicket to draw the series, as among his career highlights along with winning the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.

* "I've enjoyed every single moment of playing test cricket for the Black Caps and am proud of everything we've been able to achieve as a team," he said.

* Wagner made his New Zealand debut in 2012 after arriving from his native South Africa four years earlier.

* "To the New Zealand public and the fans, I can't thank you enough, for your support, for making me feel welcome, for making me feel like a Kiwi," said Wagner.

* Only Richard Hadlee, current captain Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori and Trent Boult have taken more Test wickets for New Zealand than Wagner.

* New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said on Tuesday (27th Feb 2024) that Wagner was "one of the greats".

* "He has been through an incredible era and been a huge cog of the bowling attack over the years.

* "We'll remember his lion-heartedness, the way he just kept finding a way to make something happen."..

Source : Cricket World

Correct Answer :   Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton

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Namibian batter Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton has etched his name in cricket history by hitting the quickest ever hundred in men’s T20Is, Loftie-Eaton created the new record during a T20I against Nepal at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground on Tuesday (27th Feb 2024).

Walking in to bat at no. 5, Loftie-Eaton took just 33 deliveries to reach three figures having belted 11 fours and eight sixes during his record-breaking effort. This is his maiden T20I century.

Namibia were at a middling 62/3 when Loftie-Eaton joined opener Malan Kruger in the middle and he changed the complexion of his team’s innings by peppering the boundary with gorgeous hits.

Loftie-Eaton’s 36-ball 101 propelled Namibia to 206/4 after their captain JJ Smit opted to bat first in the Tri-series opener which also features the Netherlands.

Loftie-Eaton wasn’t done though as he later claimed two wickets in his three overs to cap off a brilliant all-round performance.

Interestingly, the 22-year-old Namibian broke the record of Nepal batter Kushal Malla who was part of the contest. Malla had taken 34 deliveries to smash a century against Namibia last year.

India’s Rohit Sharma, South African David Miller and Sudesh Wickramasekara of Czech Republic have slipped to joint-third on the list of quickest T20I hundreds with each taking 35 balls.

Correct Answer :   Aditi Sen De

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In a world propelled by technological advancements, quantum computing emerges as a frontier of innovation. At its forefront stands Dr. Aditi Sen De, a distinguished physicist from the Harish Chandra Research Institute in Prayagraj. Recently honored with the 2023 GD Birla Award for Scientific Excellence, Dr. De’s groundbreaking contributions to quantum technologies mark a significant milestone in scientific research.

Quantum Technologies: Redefining the Future

* Dr. De’s expertise in quantum communication networks and cryptographic networks aligns seamlessly with the evolving landscape of quantum technologies.
* Her pioneering work not only advances our understanding of quantum mechanics but also lays the groundwork for practical applications in quantum computing and communication.
* Recent enhancements to iMessage security by Apple demonstrate the relevance of Dr. De’s research in developing quantum-resistant technologies.

Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Science

* As the first woman recipient of the GD Birla Award for Scientific Excellence, Dr. De’s achievements transcend individual recognition.
* Her journey from mastering applied mathematics to spearheading Quantum Information and Computation (QIC) serves as an inspiration for women in science and technology globally.
* Dr. De’s accolades, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize and the Buti Foundation Award, underscore her status as a leading figure in quantum research.

Shaping the Quantum Era: From Theory to Practice

* The implications of Dr. De’s work extend far beyond academia, driving advancements in quantum computing and its practical applications.
* Her research not only fuels innovation but also ensures that we are prepared for the challenges and opportunities presented by the quantum era.
* Through her relentless pursuit of scientific excellence, Dr. De continues to shape the future of quantum technologies, bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation.

Correct Answer :   Japan

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The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced today (25th Feb 2024) at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 25th February to 9th March 2024.

Exercise 'DHARMA GUARDIAN’ is an annual exercise and conducted alternatively in India and Japan. The contingent of both sides comprises of 40 personnel each. The Japanese contingent is being represented by troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment and Indian Army contingent is being represented by a Battalion from the Rajputana Rifles.

Aim of the Exercise is to foster Military Cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The Exercise would focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills and basics of special arms skills.

Tactical drills to be practiced during the Exercise will include establishing of Temporary Operating Base, creating an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Grid, setting up Mobile Vehicle Check Post, executing Cordon and Search Operations in a hostile village, Heliborne operations and House Intervention Drills. A Weapon and Equipment Display will also be organised showcasing ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and the growing defence industrial capability of the country.

Lieutenant General TOGASHI Yuichi, Commanding General, Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defence Force is also scheduled to visit India on the sidelines of “Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN”. The General officer will visit Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on 3rd March 2024 and witness Combat Shooting demonstration, Special Heliborne Operation (SHBO) & House Intervention Drills.

Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ will enable the two sides to share their best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures of conducting tactical operations. The Exercise will also facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between troops of both the sides. This will enhance the level of defence cooperation, further fostering bilateral relations between the two friendly nations..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Narendra Modi

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (26th Feb 2024) laid the foundation stone for Sikkim's first railway station at Rangpo.

It was among the over 2,000 rail infrastructure projects worth about ? 41,000 crore unveiled by the prime minister.

The design of the Rangpo railway station will draw inspiration from the rich culture, heritage and architecture of Sikkim, the prime minister said in his address via video conference.

Sikkim Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya was present at Khanikola in Rangpo where a function was held.

"The foundation stone laying for the Rangpo railway station is a historic and proud moment for Sikkim, underscoring its significance in the context of 'Viksit Bharat@2047' and its potential to enhance the tourism sector by offering expedited and convenient travel options," Acharya said.

He also noted the advantages of the railways during the monsoon, when the NH-10 encounters disruptions.

The railways will be a blessing during such times, enhancing connectivity and reliability, he added.

The station will be a part of the under-construction 45-km rail line from Sevoke near Siliguri in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim. It will have 14 tunnels and 22 bridges.

The track on the Sevoke-Rangpo section of the Northeast Frontier Railway will have the capacity to handle 25 ton and trains can run at a maximum speed of 110 kmph.

There will be three stations between Sevoke and Rangpo -- Riyang, Teesta and Melli, all in West Bengal.

The project was awarded to IRCON International in May 2010 at a cost of ? 4,084.69 crore and the original deadline was May 2015. The revised date is now December 2024 with a revised cost of ? 12,474.07 crore, according to officials..

Source : NDTV