Correct Answer :   Poonam Khetrapal Singh

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Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director WHO South-East Asia, has been awarded Bhutan’s prestigious National Order of Merit Gold Medal for her distinguished services to the country.

* The King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk honored Dr Khetrapal Singh, an Indian national, at Bhutan’s 116th National Day celebration here.

* “Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, the first woman Regional Director of WHO South-East Asia Region, played a pivotal role in supporting transformative healthcare leadership in Bhutan from 2014 to 2024. Her tenure witnessed remarkable strides, including Bhutan becoming one of the first countries to eliminate measles and rubella ahead of schedule. She made significant contributions to help Bhutan excel in COVID-19 vaccination,” the King said.

* “Dr Khetrapal Singh’s impactful strategies extended across communicable diseases, reproductive health, health systems, and social determinants, and had a lasting positive impact on Bhutan’s public health services,” he said.

* In a video message post the award ceremony, Dr Khetrapal Singh thanked His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk for the award. She said, “as Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia for the last decade, it has been my vision to address priority health issue through eight flagship programmes, and promote health and wellbeing for everyone, everywhere”.

* The Regional Director said Bhutan’s efforts and achievements in the last decade have been exceptional – eliminating polio, maternal and neonatal tetanus, eliminating measles and rubella, taking the lead in WHO South-East Asia Region for addressing mental health and making efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by expanding HPV vaccination and screening.  The country is making exceptional efforts to address other non-communicable diseases. Bhutan’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was commendable.

* “With the ongoing focused interventions, I am confident of and also wish Bhutan many more laurels in public health in the coming years,” Dr Khetrapal Singh said.

* Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh became the first Indian to be elected as the Regional Director of WHO South-East Asia. After a five-year term beginning February 2014, she was unanimously re-elected by the 11 Member countries of the Region, home to one quarter of the world’s population, for another five-year term from February 2019.

* During her decade long term, the Region has witnessed unprecedented advances in public health, specially around her flagship programmes.

* The Region eradicated polio and eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus. Bhutan and four other countries eliminated measles and rubella. The Region’s share in global measles deaths dropped from 40% in 2014 to 8% by the end of 2021.

* Countries initiated mainstreaming screening, diagnosing and treatment for noncommunicable diseases at the primary health care level and rolled out multi-sectoral responses to address key risk factors for non-communicable diseases.

* Between 2010 and 2021, the Region recorded 69% decline in maternal mortality, the steepest globally; 45% decline in under five mortalities, 39% decline in neonatal mortality and 54% decline in still births.  Availability of doctors, nurses and midwives increased by over 30.6% since 2014.

* Dr Khetrapal Singh identified elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTD) as a regional flagship. Six countries have eliminated at least one NTD. Two countries eliminated malaria. Three eliminated mother-to-child transmission of syphilis and HIV. Four countries achieved hepatitis B control through vaccination..

Source : WHO

Correct Answer :   Haryana

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Curtains came down on the first-ever Khelo India Para Games after a week-long celebrations of human spirit and inclusivity. In the games that had 173 gold medals up for grabs, Haryana bagged top honors with a total of 105 medals including 40 gold, 39 silver and 26 bronze medals.

Finishing second was Uttar Pradesh, with a total of 62 medals, including 25 gold, 23 silver and 14 bronze.

Tamil Nadu finished third with 20 gold, 8 silver and 14 bronze medals. While the Games witnessed star para athletes who were fresh from their Asian Para Games success in Hangzhou, China.

The likes of armless archer Sheetal Devi, discus thrower Yogesh Kathuniya, table tennis star Bhavina Patel, Parul Parmar, Nishad Kumar among several others, there were also some heart-warming performances by upcoming stars who defied physical limitations to finish on the podium.

Hailing the efforts of the participating, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Union minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Information and Broadcasting said, "Today (17th Dec 2023), under these spotlights, we honor not just medals, but the resilient spirits and untold stories that have painted this arena. The Khelo India Para Games 2023 mark a historic chapter in our sports history, where participation eclipses mere victory. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, 'Kheloge toh khiloge.' These past days have etched moments of unwavering human spirits, forging new milestones, talents emerging, records falling, and prejudices shattered. This is the new India, envisioned by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.”

Rajesh T of Tamil Nadu, Sandeep Dangi of Haryana, Tulika Jadhao of Maharashtra, Ashmita of Assam are all names to reckon with for their incredible grit and determination. The Games also witnessed an Asian record being bettered by Pranav Soorma of Haryana who improved his Asian Para Games gold medal-winning performance of 30.01 with an effort of 33.54 metres in club throw event. He improved the Asian record of 31.09m held by Dharambir.

Sports superstars like Mary Kom, Harbhajan Singh, Anju Bobby George, Anjum Moudgil, Manu Bhaker, Viren Rasquinha, Ajay Jadeja among others made their presence felt at the victory ceremonies to honour the efforts of the para athletes and also lauded the Government of India and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for introducing para games in their flagship Khelo India events.

The action on final day also saw Kerala clinch a stupendous 7-0 win against Tamil Nadu in CP football with Y Jaya Surya scoring 3 goals while 4 goals were scored by A Growth. In table tennis, in the men’s Class-4 category, Sumit Sehgal of Haryana defeated Ramesh Chaudhary of Gujarat 3-0 (11-8, 11-7, 11-8) in the final to clinch gold medal.

Over 1450 para athletes from 32 states and Union Territories participated in the prestigious Khelo India Para Games which saw events in seven disciplines.


Other scores :

* Gajanan Parmar (MP) beat Shashidhar Kulkarni (KNT) 3-1 (11-9, 11-8, 7-11, 13-11) in the Men’s Class-8 category.

* Raj Aravindan Alagar (TN) beat Pawan Kumar Sharma (UP) 3-0 (11-2, 11-7, 11-7) in the Men’s Class-5 category

* Poonam (CHD) beat BhavikaKukadiya (GUJ) 3-1 (11-6, 7-11, 11-7, 11-5) in the Women’s Class-6 category

* Baby Sahana (TN) beat PruthviBarve (MHR) 3-0 (11-3, 11-6, 11-3) in the Women’s Class 9-10 category

* Prachi Pandey (UP) beat Dhwani Shah (GUJ) 3-0 (11-3, 11-6, 11-2) in the Women’s Class 7 category...

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Haryana

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Vijay Hazare Trophy 2023 : Haryana beats Rajasthan by 30 runs to clinch maiden title.

* In a pulsating Vijay Hazare Trophy final, Sumit Kumar’s ubiquitous brilliance and Harshal Patel’s flashes of inspiration scripted Haryana’s 30-run win over Rajasthan and secured the state team’s first title triumph in more than 32 years at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium here on Saturday.

* With Abhijeet Tomar and Kunal Rathore soaking the pressure of a top-order collapse with a 121-run partnership for the fifth wicket, it was fitting that Sumit and Harshal combined to dismiss the former and help Haryana claw back.


Vijay Hazare Trophy Final Highlights

* After being taken to the cleaners in his first two spells, Harshal induced a miscued lofted shot over covers from Tomar only for Sumit to pull off a stunner at mid-off. A few overs later, Harshal got Rathore to slice one in the deep and usher in Rajasthan’s long tail.

* Sumit’s ability to move the ball both ways had Rajasthan reeling at 12 for three. After removing Ram Chouhan and Mahipal Lomror, Sumit got one to move in and trap Deepak Hooda leg-before, deflating the partisan crowd.

* Tomar staged a 68-run resistance for the fourth wicket with Karan Lamba before giving Haryana a mighty scare with Rathore. The duo’s intent against spin could have been the difference between the sides but Harshal had other ideas.

* Earlier, Ankit Kumar (88, 91b, 12x4. 1x6), and captain Ashok Menaria (70, 96b, 8x4) frustrated Rajasthan with a 124-run partnership for the third wicket after losing two wickets inside nine overs.

* The duo rebuilt during a 17-over phase of relentless spin bowling that yielded 78 runs. Rajasthan’s ploy of employing left-arm spinner Kukna Ajay Singh against right-hander Ankit and Hooda bringing himself into the attack to have a go at Menaria didn’t pay off.

* Aniket Choudhary eventually broke the alliance as the left-arm pacer rearranged Ankit’s stumps off the first ball of his second spell.

* With Ankit back in the hut, Menaria looked to crank through the gears but ended up flicking Choudhary’s full delivery into the hands of deep square-leg.

* Choudhary put down the marker for Arafat Khan and Khaleel Ahmed. Though Arafat had a disciplined start, nabbing Yuvraj Singh with a tight line and bounce, he strayed too wide and too full.

* Nishant Sindhu and Rahul Tewatia struck sprightly cameos, while Sumit (28 off 16), who elicited chants of “Surya, Surya” from a bunch of kids with a perilous scoop for six over fine-leg in a 14-run last over, was only warming up...


Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   Bangladesh

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Wicketkeeper-batter Ashiqur Rahman Shibli continued his splendid run with a second century in five matches as Bangladesh crushed UAE by 195 runs to win the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai on December 17, 2023.

* Opening the batting, Ashiqur smashed 12 fours and one six in his knock of 129 (149 balls) as Bangladesh posted 282/8 after hosts UAE opted to field.

* In reply, UAE surrendered meekly to fold up for 87 in 24.5 overs as Bangladesh clinched the eight-nation tournament with five wins from as many games.

Glimpses of Bangladesh-U19 vs UAE-U19 final.#ACCMensU19AsiaCup #ACC pic.twitter.com/GatKgf4Jgp

— AsianCricketCouncil (@ACCMedia1) December 17, 2023

Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   Tamil Nadu

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Khelo India Games will be held in Tamil Nadu in January 2024. The State Government said that the games will be held in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai and Trichy from 19th to 31st January, 2024.

More than 5,500 sports persons and over 1,600 coaches are expected to participate in the event.

More than 1000 referees and 1200 volunteers will be part of the sporting event in which 27 types of sport will be played.

For the first time, squash will be included in Khelo India games..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath

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Real Vision Homes Pvt Ltd proudly announces the remarkable achievement of its esteemed Chairman, Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath, who has been honored with the Visionary Leader Icon Award of the Year 2023 by the Advocates Association For Social Responsibility And Awareness (AASRAA). The prestigious award was presented at the 5th National Summit held at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi on 24th Nov 2023.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including National Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohith Kumar Singh, Founder Chairman of AASRAA Sulthan Habib Ali, renowned cine actors Ali, and the All India Representatives and State Heads of AASRAA. The Visionary Leader Icon Award was presented to Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath by N Satyanarayana, Chairman of Telangana RERA, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the real estate industry and his commitment to social responsibility and to AASRAA.

Real Vision Homes Pvt Ltd, a leading name in the real estate sector, takes immense pride in Founder Chairman Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath's well-deserved recognition as a visionary leader. The award is a testament to his unwavering dedication, remarkable achievements, and commitment to excellence in both business and social endeavors.

The 5th National Summit of AASRAA served as the perfect platform to acknowledge and honor Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath's significant contributions. During the event, he expressed gratitude to everyone who has supported him on his journey, emphasizing his mission to empower more individuals financially and provide opportunities through his organization Realvision Homes Pvt Ltd.

Dr. Srinivas Naik Dharavath, a native of Suryapet, Telangana, has played a pivotal role in the success of Real Vision Homes Pvt Ltd. With over two decades of experience in the real estate industry, he has transformed his passion for marketing into unparalleled success, making homeownership a reality for countless individuals. His innovative ideas and ambitious approach have led to the development of luxurious and affordable ventures in and around Telangana..


Source : ANI

Correct Answer :   Nathan Lyon

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Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon on Sunday (17th Dec 2023) became the 8th bowler to reach 500 Test wickets, holding the ball aloft after trapping Pakistan's Faheem Ashraf lbw to claim the milestone in his side's 360-run win in the series opener at Perth Stadium.

The 123-match veteran, affectionately nicknamed "The GOAT", further cemented his place among the "greatest of all time" during the third session to join Australia's Shane Warne (708) and Glenn McGrath (563) in the illustrious 500 club.

"I don't think it's hit me yet, but there's obviously been a lot of hard work go into the journey... It's pretty special to take 500 in my first Test back," Lyon, who took 3-66 and 2-14, told reporters.

After declaring at 233-5 after lunch on day four to set Pakistan 450 for victory, the hosts ripped through the tourists for 89 to take a 1-0 lead in the three match series, which continues in Melbourne on 26 Dec 2023.

Australia's seamers were dominant in their outing on day four, reducing the visitors to 48-4 before tea, but it was Lyon's 28th over lbw review which brought the crowd to life.

"I was quietly confident it would hit leg ... (but with) reviews, you're always nervous," he said.

The crowd roared their approval when Hawk-Eye showed the ball hitting Ashraf's stumps, giving Lyon his 500th.

Lyon, who debuted for Australia in 2011 after enjoying a rapid rise domestically, entered the match on 496 wickets..


Source : Reuters

Correct Answer :   Iran

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Iran has reinforced its air defence capabilities by adding combat drones equipped with air-to-air missiles to its arsenal, state media reported on 10th December 2023.

"Dozens of Karrar drones armed with air-to-air missiles have been added for air defence in all border areas of the country."

It is an Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) developed by Iran.

It is the first long-endurance, combat-capable Iranian drone.

It will be strategically deployed along border areas, providing air defence units with the capability to intercept and neutralise hostile aerial threats at significantly reduced costs compared to traditional manned fighter sorties..

Source : The Hindu

Correct Answer :   Antim Panghal

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Indian wrestler Antim Panghal has been named the Rising Star of the Year among women by the United World Wrestling (UWW), the sport’s global governing body. The 19-year-old dynamo, competing in the 53 kg category, has had a remarkable season that has not only garnered accolades but has also overshadowed senior stalwart Vinesh Phogat in the same weight class.


Antim Panghal’s Season of Triumph : Antim Panghal embarked on her remarkable journey this season with a silver in the Asian Championships, making a statement by defeating Japan’s Akari Fujimani, who had not lost a senior match in her career. The 19-year-old from Haryana further solidified her prowess by defending her U20 world champion title in Jordan, showcasing her dominance on the international stage.


Two-Time Junior World Champion : Hailing from Haryana, Antim Panghal has etched her name in history as the only two-time junior world champion for India, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Her achievements in the junior category have laid a strong foundation for her rapid rise in the senior ranks.

Impactful Senior World Wrestling Championships Debut : Making her senior world wrestling championships debut in Belgrade, Serbia, Panghal left an indelible mark by securing the bronze medal. Her victory over Sweden’s two-time European champion Jonna Malmgren showcased her ability to compete at the highest level. Importantly, this win also secured the Paris 2024 Olympic quota for India in the women’s 53 kg category, adding another feather to her cap.


International Recognition : The United World Wrestling’s acknowledgment of Antim Panghal as the Rising Star of the Year underscores her emergence as a force to be reckoned with in women’s wrestling. Her achievements transcend national borders, making her a rising star on the global stage.


Other Awardees :

* In the men’s freestyle category, Greece’s Georgios Kougioumtsidis received the Rising Star of the Year award, while Azerbaijan’s Hasrat Jafarov took the honors in the Greco-Roman category.

* As Antim Panghal continues to script her success story, her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring wrestlers and highlights the growing prowess of Indian women in the fiercely competitive world of wrestling.

Correct Answer :   MS Dhoni

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla said that the board has decided to 'retire' MS Dhoni's No.7 jersey to honour his contribution to Indian cricket.

Dhoni last appeared for India in a World Cup semifinal against New Zealand in 2019. He announced his retirement on August 15, 2020, and no one has worn the No.7 jersey since.

Even Sachin Tendulkar's No.10 has not been worn by another player since his retirement in 2013, except bowler Shardul Thakur, who chose No.10 in his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in 2017 but was harshly criticised on social media. Since then, no one has worn a jersey with the number 10 written on the back.

"He is a legendary player. His contribution to Indian as well as world cricket is immense. To honour his contribution, the decision to retire number seven has been taken by the BCCI."

Retiring jerseys of the greats are a phenomenon in other sports as well. Following Michael Jordan's retirement, the Chicago Bulls retired the No. 23 jersey he wore.

Dinesh Karthik, India's wicketkeeper whose international career overlapped with Dhoni's, was among the first to call for the No.7 shirt to be retired after the World Cup-winning captain's retirement in 2020. Karthik and Dhoni both played in that disastrous World Cup quarterfinal against New Zealand...


Source : India Today