Author name: Ajay Gulia

"Ajay Kumar Gulia is the lead editor at gknow.in. With a deep background in competitive exam coaching, he has helped thousands of students stay updated with daily current affairs. He meticulously vets every MCQ to ensure it meets the standards of UPSC and SSC boards."

President Murmu Awards Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 17 Exceptional Children

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on 17 children in New Delhi on 26 December 2024.

Categories: The children were recognized for their achievements in Art and Culture, Bravery, Innovation, Science and Technology, Social Service, Sports, and Environment.

Awards: Each awardee received a medal, a certificate, and a citation booklet.

States and UTs: The awardees hailed from 14 states and union territories.

Veer Bal Diwas Tribute: President Murmu paid homage to the bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzadas on Veer Bal Diwas, honoring the younger sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.

Prime Minister’s Interaction: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the awardees.

Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passes away at 92

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away on 26 December 2024 at the age of 92 in New Delhi. He had been in poor health for the last few months and was admitted to AIIMS in critical condition. He is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters.

Prime Minister: He served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 in the Congress-led UPA government.

Finance Minister: Appointed Finance Minister in 1991, introduced reforms like rupee devaluation, tax restructuring, and removal of trade barriers.

RBI Governor: Served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from September 1982 to January 1985.

Economic Reforms: Dr. Singh is considered the architect of the 1991 economic reforms that ushered in economic liberalisation in India.

Early Life: Born on 26 September 1932 in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan), he pursued economics at Punjab University, Cambridge University, and Oxford University.

Parliamentary Career: Elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam in 1991, served as Leader of the Opposition from 1998 to 2004, and became the first Sikh Prime Minister of India in 2004.

Awards: Honored with several awards, including the Padma Vibhushan in 1987 and the Euro Money Award for Finance Minister in 1993.

PM Modi Lays Foundation for Ken-Betwa River Linking Project in Madhya Pradesh

Foundation Stone Laid: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa National River Linking Project on 25 December 2024 in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Inaugurations: Modi also inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project and performed Bhoomi Pujan of 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan Bhawans.

Commemorations: A stamp and coin were released in memory of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 100th birth anniversary.

Project Cost and Funding: The Ken-Betwa project costs Rs 44,605 crores, with 90% funded by the Central Government and 10% by State Governments.

Benefits:

  • Irrigation: Facilities for more than 8 lakh hectares in Madhya Pradesh and 2.51 lakh hectares in Uttar Pradesh.
  • Drinking Water: Facilities for 44 lakh people in Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh people in Uttar Pradesh.
  • Power Generation: 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
  • Economic Impact: Improvement in water levels in Bundelkhand, promotion of industrialization, increased investment, tourism, and employment opportunities.

Veer Baal Diwas, December 26: Commemorating Sacrifice and Celebrating Youth Achievements

Veer Baal Diwas is observed annually on December 26.

Purpose: The day honors the bravery and sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh.

Historical Significance: In 1704, the Sahibzadas were captured and pressured to renounce their Sikh faith. They refused and were martyred by being bricked alive at Sirhind, Punjab.

Declaration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared December 26 as Veer Baal Diwas in 2022 to commemorate their sacrifice.

2024 Celebrations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the event at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and launch the Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan to enhance nutritional outcomes across India.

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President Droupadi Murmu will confer the award on 17 children for exceptional achievements in seven categories in New Delhi. The children hail from 14 states and UTs.

  • Categories: Art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and the environment.
  • Awards: Each awardee will receive a medal, certificate, and citation booklet.

Arunish Chawla Named New Revenue Secretary; Major Government Appointments Announced

Arunish Chawla: 1992 batch Bihar cadre IAS officer appointed as the Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. Previously Secretary of Pharmaceuticals in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.

Amit Agrawal: Chief executive officer of Unique Identification Authority of India, appointed as the new Pharmaceuticals Secretary.

Vineet Joshi: Manipur chief secretary, appointed as the Secretary of Higher Education.

Neerja Sekhar: Special Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, appointed as the Director General of the National Productivity Council.

Rachna Shah: Textiles Secretary, appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).

Neelam Shammi Rao: Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities, appointed as the new Textiles Secretary.

Sanjay Sethi: Appointed as the Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities.

Bumrah Equals Ashwin’s Record with 904 Rating Points in ICC Men’s Test Bowling Ranking

Jasprit Bumrah has reached 904 rating points in the ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings, equaling the highest rating ever achieved by an Indian bowler, previously held by Ravichandran Ashwin.

Upcoming Opportunity: Bumrah has the chance to surpass this record during the Melbourne Test beginning on 26 December 2024 between India and Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Outstanding Performance: Bumrah’s stellar performance in Brisbane, where he took 9 wickets for 94 runs, earned him 14 rating points and solidified his top position in the Test Bowling Rankings.

M Raghu & Devika Sihag Wins Senior National Badminton Titles 2024

86th Senior National Badminton Tournament held in Bengaluru from 18 to 24 December 2024.

  • Men’s Singles Champion: Karnataka’s M. Raghu defeated Mithun Manjunath (14-21, 21-14, 24-22), saving three match points in the decider.
  • Women’s Singles Champion: Haryana’s Devika Sihag secured a comfortable win over Shriyanshi Valishetty (21-15, 21-16).
  • Men’s Doubles Winners: Sanskar Saraswat and Arsh Mohammad.
  • Women’s Doubles Winners: Arathi Sara Sunil and Varshini VS.
  • Mixed Doubles Winners: Ayush Agarwal and Shruti Mishra.

President Appoints New Governors in 5 States

The President of India announced the appointment of Governors for five states on 24 December 2024.

New Appointments:

  • Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati: Appointed as the Governor of Odisha (previously Governor of Mizoram).
  • General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.): Designated as the new Governor of Mizoram.
  • Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar: Currently Governor of Bihar, now appointed as the Governor of Kerala.
  • Arif Mohammed Khan: Previously Governor of Kerala, now assigned as the Governor of Bihar.
  • Ajay Kumar Bhalla: Former Union Home Secretary, appointed as the Governor of Manipur.

Effective Dates: The appointments will take effect from the dates the appointees assume charge of their respective offices.

Resignation Accepted: The resignation of Odisha’s outgoing Governor, Raghubar Das, has been accepted by the President.

Good Governance Day on December 25th

Good Governance Day is observed annually on December 25th in India to honor the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Instituted in 2014 by the Narendra Modi government, this day aims to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public administration.

Significance

Good Governance Day highlights the importance of ethical leadership and responsible governance. It serves as a reminder for both leaders and citizens to uphold high standards of governance to ensure sustainable development and public welfare.

Celebrations

The day is marked by various initiatives and activities, including:

  • Awareness Campaigns: Programs focusing on digital transformation, participatory democracy, and responsive public services.
  • Educational Activities: Schools, colleges, and government organizations host debates, speeches, and workshops to encourage youth participation in nation-building.
  • Inspirational Messages: Quotes by Atal Bihari Vajpayee are shared to inspire ethical governance and public service.

Fixtures for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 in Cricket will take place from 19th February to 9th March 2025.

Host: Pakistan will host its first global cricket tournament since 1996, alongside the UAE as a neutral venue.

Group A Teams: India, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Pakistan.

Group B Teams: Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa.

Opening Match: The tournament begins with Pakistan facing New Zealand on 19th February in Karachi.

India’s Matches: India’s first match is against Bangladesh on 20th February in Dubai, followed by a match against Pakistan on 23rd February in Dubai.

Venues: Matches will be held in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan, and Dubai in the UAE.

Semi-finals and Final: The first semi-final will be on 4th March in Dubai, the second semi-final and final on 5th March and 9th March in Lahore. If India qualifies, these matches will be in Dubai.

V. Ramasubramanian appointed as NHRC Chairperson

Retired Supreme Court judge V. Ramasubramanian has been appointed as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by President Droupadi Murmu on 23 December 2024.

Other Appointments: Priyank Kanoongo and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) have also been appointed as members of the NHRC.

Background: Justice Ramasubramanian served as a Supreme Court judge from September 23, 2019, to June 29, 2023.

Vacancy: This appointment fills the vacancy left by former NHRC chairperson Justice Arun Kumar Mishra, who concluded his tenure on June 1, 2024. Fllowing Mishra’s retirement, Vijaya Bharathi Sayani served as the acting chairperson.

National Consumer Day: December 24

National Consumer Day is observed annually on December 24. The day aims to raise awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities.

Historical Significance: The day commemorates the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act 1986, which received presidential assent on December 24, 1986.

Consumer Rights: The act grants consumers the right to be protected, informed, heard, and to seek redressal against unfair trade practices.

2024 Theme: The theme for National Consumer Day 2024 is “Virtual Hearings & Digital Access to Consumer Justice”.

Key Initiatives: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi launched several initiatives, including the Jago Grahak Jago App, Jagriti App, and Jagriti Dashboard to protect consumers from deceptive online practices.

Kristrun Frostadottir Becomes Iceland’s Youngest Prime Minister

Iceland’s new government, led by Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir of the Social Democratic Alliance (SDA), took office on 21 December 2024.

Youngest Prime Minister: Frostadottir, born in 1988, is Iceland’s youngest prime minister. She was elected to parliament in 2021 and became SDA leader in 2022.

Three-Party Coalition: The coalition includes the SDA, the Liberal Reform Party (LRP), and the People’s Party (PP). The SDA and LRP each hold four ministerial portfolios, while the PP has three.

First Meeting: The new cabinet held its first formal meeting at the presidential residence, Bessastadir, with President Halla Tomasdottir in attendance.

Cabinet Priorities: Frostadottir outlined priorities of stabilising Iceland’s economy by reducing interest rates, enforcing stricter public finance controls, and fostering value creation.

Election Victory: The SDA emerged as the biggest winner in Iceland’s parliamentary election held on November 30.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Matches to be Held in UAE, Confirms PCB

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has designated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the neutral venue for India’s matches in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

Reason: This decision follows India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.

Confirmation: The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on December 19 that all India’s matches, including potential semifinals and the final, will be played at a neutral venue under a hybrid hosting model.

Likely Location: While the PCB did not specify the exact location, Dubai is widely expected to host the matches.

Group Stage: India has three group-stage games, including a highly anticipated clash with Pakistan.

Further Matches: Should India advance, the UAE will also host one of the semifinals and the final.

Resolution: The decision resolves a standoff between the two cricketing rivals and clears the way for the ICC to announce the schedule for the eight-team, 50-over tournament.

Historical Context: India and Pakistan have not toured each other’s countries since 2012 due to ongoing political tensions, with their cricketing interactions limited to neutral venues and ICC events.

Indian-American Sriram Krishnan Appointed as Senior White House Policy Advisor on AI

President-elect Donald Trump appointed Indian-American entrepreneur Sriram Krishnan as the Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Collaboration: Krishnan will work closely with David Sacks, the White House AI and Crypto Czar, to shape AI policy across the federal government.

Background: Born in Chennai, Krishnan moved to the United States after graduation and began his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure.

Career: Besides being a seasoned tech leader, Krishnan is also a venture capitalist, podcaster, and author.

Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) on December 23rd

Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) is celebrated annually on December 23rd in India.

Purpose: To honor farmers’ contributions, raise awareness about agriculture, and address farmers’ challenges.

Historical Significance: First observed in 2019 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister of India and a strong advocate for farmers’ rights.

Celebration Activities: Includes farmers’ fairs, seminars, and cultural programs across the country.

Q. Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) marks the birth anniversary of which Indian Prime Minister?

a) Indira Gandhi
b) Lal Bahadur Shastri
c) Chaudhary Charan Singh
d) Rajiv Gandhi

c) Chaudhary Charan Singh
Rastriya Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day) commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister of India and a strong advocate for farmers’ rights.

PM Modi Honoured with Kuwait’s Highest Civilian Award, “The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honor, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, by Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait, during his state visit on 22nd December 2024.

Significance: The award symbolizes the enduring partnership between India and Kuwait.

Bilateral Talks: PM Modi held talks with the Amir, focusing on strengthening India-Kuwait relations, which have now been elevated to a Strategic Partnership.

Historical Context: This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.

India State of Forest Report 2023: Forest and Tree Cover at 25.17% of the Country’s Geographical Area

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, released the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) on 21st December 2024 at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

Total Forest and Tree Cover: The total forest and tree cover in India is 827,357 square kilometers, representing 25.17% of the country’s geographical area.

Forest Cover: 715,343 square kilometers

Tree Cover: 112,014 square kilometers

Growth in Cover: The forest and tree cover has increased by 1,445 square kilometers since the 2021 assessment, with 156 square kilometers added to forest cover and 1,289 square kilometers to tree cover.

Technology in Forest Management: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) uses advanced technology for real-time fire alerts and forest fire services to improve forest management.

Assessment Method: The report is published biennially, using satellite data and field-based surveys for a comprehensive assessment of forest and tree resources in India.

Madhya Pradesh recognized as one of ‘Go-To Global Destinations for 2025’ by Wall Street Journal

Recognition: Madhya Pradesh has been named one of the “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025” by the Wall Street Journal.

Key Features: The accolade recognizes the state’s rich heritage, unparalleled wildlife, and exceptional natural beauty.

Tourism Official’s Statement: Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, stated that this recognition solidifies Madhya Pradesh’s status as a world-class travel destination, offering unique experiences with its UNESCO sites, Tiger Reserves, and vibrant culture.

Highlighted Sites: The recognition emphasizes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Khajuraho, Panna, and Bandhavgarh, known for their cultural significance, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

India Wins Under-19 ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024

India won the inaugural Under-19 ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup on 22nd December 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs.

India’s Performance: Scored 117/7, with Gongadi Trisha top-scoring with 52 runs.

Bowling Highlights: Aayyushi Shukla took 3 wickets, while Parunika Sisodia and Sonam Yadav claimed 2 wickets each.

Bangladesh’s Performance: Bowled out for 76 runs in 18.3 overs; Farjana Easmin took 4 wickets for Bangladesh.

Tournament: Started on 15th December 2024, featuring 6 teams. India, led by Niki Prasad, remained unbeaten.

Madan Lokur Appointed as Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC)

Appointment: Former Supreme Court judge Madan B. Lokur has been appointed as the Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC).

Tenure: His term will last 4 years, ending on 12th November 2028.

UN Secretary-General’s Communication: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed pleasure in appointing Justice Lokur, effective immediately.

Purpose of IJC: The IJC was established by the UN General Assembly to ensure independence, professionalism, and accountability in the administration of the UN’s justice system.

Justice Lokur’s Background: He retired as a Supreme Court judge on 31st December 2018, after serving for more than 6 years.

India 39th among 119 nations in WEF tourism development index, improves ranking

India is now ranked 39th among 119 countries in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Improvement in Rank: India’s rank improved from 54th in 2021 to 39th in 2024. Due to a revision in the WEF’s methodology, India’s 2021 rank was adjusted to 38th place.

Government Schemes: The Ministry of Tourism, through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development, provides financial assistance for developing tourism infrastructure.

Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Advantage Healthcare India portal, a one-stop portal for those seeking medical treatment in India from abroad.

Affordable Medical Tourism: President Droupadi Murmu highlighted that India is emerging as a major center for affordable medical tourism, with doctors playing a significant role.

Cultural Heritage: India boasts 5,000 years of civilizational history, 43 World Heritage Sites, 56 potential World Heritage Sites, and around 3,500 monuments of national importance, demonstrating its cultural strength.

Q.: What is India’s rank in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report?

a) 38th
b) 39th
c) 54th
d) 55th

Ans: b) 39th
India is now ranked 39th among 119 countries in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

First-ever World Meditation Day on Dec 21, 2024

World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

UN Recognition: The United Nations General Assembly designated December 21st as World Meditation Day in 2024.

Purpose: The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for mental and physical health.

Global Event: The first World Meditation Day was celebrated with a global event at the UN Headquarters in New York, led by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Theme: The theme for the inaugural event was “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony”.

Benefits: Meditation is known to reduce stress, improve focus, enhance emotional balance, and promote overall well-being.

Historical Roots: Meditation has ancient roots in religious, yogic, and secular traditions across various cultures.

Modern Practice: Today, meditation is practiced worldwide and is recognized as a tool for personal well-being and mental health.

WHO Support: The World Health Organization acknowledges the significant benefits of meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation.

Collective Well-being: Beyond individual benefits, meditation fosters empathy, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose.

Q. When is World Meditation Day observed?

a) January 1st
b) June 21st
c) December 21st
d) October 10th

Ans: b) June 21st
World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

Russian President Putin ready to compromise on Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to compromise over Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump to end the war.

No Conditions for Talks: Putin has no conditions for talks with Ukrainian authorities and is willing to negotiate with anyone, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Legitimate Authorities: Any deal must be signed by Ukraine’s legitimate authorities, recognized by the Kremlin as the Ukrainian parliament.

Russia’s Position: Putin dismissed claims that Russia is in a weak position and asserted that the country has grown stronger since the 2022 conflict.

Rejection of Temporary Truce: Putin rejected the idea of a temporary truce with Kyiv, stating that only a lasting peace deal would be acceptable.

Open to Talks with Trump: Putin is open to meeting with Trump but noted that he has not spoken to him for years.

Trump’s Promise: Trump has promised to end the conflict swiftly but has not outlined his approach.

Q. What is President Vladimir Putin ready to do regarding Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump?

a) Withdraw Russian troops
b) Compromise to end the war
c) Impose stricter sanctions
d) Form a military alliance

Answer: b) Compromise to end the war
Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to compromise over Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump to end the war.

India to face Bangladesh in U-19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup final 2024

India’s Victory: India entered the final of the inaugural U-19 Women’s Asia Cup by defeating Sri Lanka in the Super 4 match held on 20 December 2024.

Match Details: India, led by Niki Prasad, chased down the target of 99 runs in 14.5 overs, winning by 4 wickets. G. Trisha was the top scorer with 32 runs.

Sri Lanka’s Innings: Sri Lanka scored 98 runs for the loss of nine wickets in the stipulated 20 overs. For India, Aayushi took four wickets and Parunika took two.

Upcoming Final: India will face Bangladesh in the final on 22 December 2024.

Bangladesh’s Performance: Bangladesh defeated Nepal by nine wickets in another Super 4 match. In a rain-affected 11-over match, Bangladesh restricted Nepal to 54 for 8 and chased down the target in 9.5 overs, scoring 58 runs for the loss of one wicket.

Q.: Which team will India face in the final of the U-19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024?

a) Nepal
b) Pakistan
c) Bangladesh
d) Sri Lanka

Ans: c) Bangladesh
India will face Bangladesh in the final on 22 December 2024.

New Delhi to host 2025 World Para Athletics Championships from September 26 to October 5, 2025

New Delhi will host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from September 26 to October 5, 2025.

  • First Time in India: This will be the first time the championships are held in India.
  • Edition: New Delhi 2025 will be the 12th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships.
  • Previous Asia Hosts: This will be the fourth time the event is hosted in Asia, following Doha 2015, Dubai 2019, and Kobe 2024.
  • World Para Athletics Grand Prix: New Delhi will also host a World Para Athletics Grand Prix for the first time from March 11 to 13, 2025, at the same venue.

Q.: Where will the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships be held from September 26 to October 5, 2025?

a) Indira Gandhi Stadium
b) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium
d) Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium

Answer: b) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
New Delhi will host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from September 26 to October 5, 2025.

Easterine Kire Wins Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for ‘Spirit Nights’ in English Category

Easterine Kire: Noted author from Nagaland, Easterine Kire, has been selected for the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in the English language category.

Award for Spirit Nights: Kire’s novel, Spirit Nights, published by Simon and Schuster India, won the award in the English language category. The novel is inspired by a story from the Chang Naga tribe of Nagaland.

Annual Sahitya Akademi Awards: The awards were announced in 21 languages on 18 December 2024.

Other Awardees from the North East:

  • Sameer Tanti: Awarded for Pharingbore Bator Katha Jane in the Assamese language.
  • Haobam Satyabati Devi: Awarded for Mainu Bora Nungshi Sheirol in the Manipuri language under the Poetry category.
  • Aron Raja: Awarded for Swrni Thakhai in the Bodo language under the Novel category.

Award Ceremony: The awardees will receive a casket containing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of one lakh rupees. The ceremony will be held on 8th March 2025 in Delhi.

Q.: Who won the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for the English language category?

a) Arundhati Roy
b) Jhumpa Lahiri
c) Easterine Kire
d) Chetan Bhagat

Answer: c) Easterine Kire

Pt. Swapan Choudhary Receives National Tansen Award 2023

The National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were given on 18 December 2024 during the Tansen Festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

National Tansen Award:

  • Recipient: Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.
  • Prize: The award includes an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal.
  • Significance: This award is the highest national music award in the field of Indian classical music, established by the Madhya Pradesh government.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Award:

  • Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.
  • Institution’s Contribution: Sanand Nyas has been active in the fields of classical music, drama, and cultural festivals in Indore for the last 35 years.

MCQs on National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Awards

Q.: Who was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023?

a) Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia
b) Ustad Zakir Hussain
c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
d) Amjad Ali Khan

Ans: c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.

Q.: Which institution was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023?

a) Raga Nyas
b) Sanand Nyas
c) Saptak Nyas
d) Surana Nyas

Ans: b) Sanand Nyas
Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.

Goa Liberation Day – 19 December 2024: Marking 63 Years of Liberation

Goa celebrated its 63rd Liberation Day on 19 December 2024, marking independence from Portuguese rule in 1961 after 451 years of colonial occupation.

Ceremony Honoring Martyrs:

  • Chief Minister Pramod Sawant led a ceremony to honor the families of freedom fighters.
  • Sawant emphasized remembering sacrifices and the harshness of nearly 450 years of Portuguese rule.

‘Operation Vijay’:

Goa’s liberation was achieved through Operation Vijay, a 36-hour military campaign by the Indian Armed Forces in December 1961, ending Portuguese control and integrating Goa into the Indian Union.

Historical Context:

  • While India gained independence in 1947, Goa remained under Portuguese rule until 1961.
  • Inspired by India’s freedom movement, many Goans, including women, joined the fight against colonial rule.

Mohan Ranade’s Contributions:

  • Mohan Ranade, a prominent freedom fighter, led armed revolts, was imprisoned in 1955, and spent 14 years in prison (6 in solitary confinement).
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2001 for his role in Goa’s freedom struggle.

Goa’s Unique Identity:

Liberation allowed Goa to reclaim its place in the Indian Union, while its Portuguese-influenced cultural and religious heritage continues to shape its identity.

MCQs on Goa Liberation Day

Q.: When does Goa celebrate its Liberation Day?
a) 15 August
b) 26 January
c) 19 December
d) 2 October

Answer: c) 19 December
Goa celebrated its 63rd Liberation Day on 19 December 2024

Q. How many years of Portuguese rule ended with Goa’s liberation in 1961?
a) 350 years
b) 451 years
c) 200 years
d) 500 years

Answer: b) 451 years
Goa liberate from Portuguese rule in 1961 after 451 years of colonial occupation.

Q. Which military operation led to Goa’s liberation?
a) Operation Blue Star
b) Operation Vijay
c) Operation Meghdoot
d) Operation Trident

Answer: b) Operation Vijay
Goa’s liberation was achieved through Operation Vijay, a 36-hour military campaign by the Indian Armed Forces in December 1961, ending Portuguese control and integrating Goa into the Indian Union.

India’s First Diabetes Biobank Established in Chennai

First diabetes biobank in Chennai: India has established its first diabetes biobank in Chennai on December 17, 2024.

Collaboration: The biobank is a joint effort between the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF).

Purpose: The biobank aims to collect, store, and share biological samples to support advanced scientific research on diabetes.

Research Focus: It will facilitate research into the causes, variations, and complications of diabetes, particularly in the Indian population.

Significance: The biobank is expected to contribute to better prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies for diabetes.

Q. Where was India’s first diabetes biobank established?

a) Bengaluru
b) Mumbai
c) Chennai
d) Delhi

Ans: c) Chennai
India has established its first diabetes biobank in Chennai on December 17, 2024.

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