Miscellaneous

“The Emergency Diaries – Years that Forged a Leader” Launched: Focus on Modi’s Resistance to Emergency

On 25 June 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah released the book “The Emergency Diaries – Years that Forged a Leader”, which explores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role during the Emergency as a young RSS Pracharak.

The book is divided into five chapters and examines how the 1975–77 Emergency shaped Modi’s understanding of state power, political mobilization, and the importance of a healthy opposition.

It presents the Emergency as a critical turning point in India’s democratic journey, highlighting the threat to civil liberties and institutional independence under a centralized and dynastic rule.

The book quotes Modi’s reflections, emphasizing:

  • The spirit of democracy among Indians
  • The long struggle of pro-democracy activists during the Emergency
  • The importance of preserving constitutional rights and democratic values

It concludes that remembering the Emergency is essential as a reminder of the need to safeguard democracy and resist any erosion of constitutional freedoms.

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.

Telegram Founder and CEO Pavel Durov arrested at Le Bourget Airport, by French Police

Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging application Telegram, was recently arrested by French police at Le Bourget Airport, located north of Paris. Durov, who is 39 years old, was detained after his private jet landed at the airport.

The arrest was made under a warrant related to various offences connected to Telegram. The investigation focuses on allegations that Telegram has not taken sufficient steps to curb criminal activities on its platform, including drug trafficking, child sexual content, and fraud. Telegram has previously denied these allegations, asserting that its moderation practices are within industry standards.

Durov, who holds dual citizenship in the United Arab Emirates and France, founded Telegram in 2013. The app is known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security, which has made it popular worldwide, especially in Russia, Ukraine, and former Soviet Union states. 

Q.: Who is the founder and CEO of Telegram?

A) Mark Zuckerberg
B) Jack Dorsey
C) Pavel Durov
D) Sundar Pichai

Ans : C) Pavel Durov
Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging application Telegram, was recently arrested by French police at Le Bourget Airport.

Mpox; Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

Recent outbreaks have occurred in various countries, including the UK, Sweden, and Pakistan, with higher transmission rates and mortality than previous outbreaks. Health authorities are responding by stockpiling vaccines and issuing travel advisories.

Mpox, (monkeypox)

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus, related to the smallpox virus.

Transmission:

  • Human-to-Human: Mpox spreads through direct contact with infectious sores, body fluids, or respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact, including intimate interactions like kissing or sexual contact.
  • Animal-to-Human: In West and Central Africa, the virus can be contracted from infected animals, such as rodents, through bites, scratches, or handling infected meat.

Symptoms:

  • Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.
  • Rash Development: A rash appears 1 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. It progresses from raised spots to fluid-filled blisters, which eventually scab and fall off.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Vaccination: Smallpox vaccines are effective against Mpox, recommended for high-risk individuals.
  • Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) are crucial for prevention.
  • Treatment: There is no specific treatment for Mpox, but supportive care and possibly antiviral drugs like tecovirimat can help manage symptoms.

Q.: What are the initial symptoms of Mpox?

A) Diarrhea and vomiting
B) Fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes
C) Cough and shortness of breath
D) Nausea and dizziness

Answer: B) Fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes
Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.
Rash Development: A rash appears 1 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.

PM Modi is world’s most followed leader on X, with over 100 million followers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached over 100 million followers on his social media account X in July 2024. In the last three years, his followers increased by about 30 million.

Prime Minister Modi is now world’s most followed leader in office on X. US President Joe Biden has 38.1 million followers, significantly fewer than Modi.

Q: What distinction does Prime Minister Narendra Modi now hold on the social media platform X?

a) Most active leader
b) Most followed leader in office
c) Most retweeted leader
d) Most mentioned leader

Ans : b) Most followed leader in office
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached over 100 million followers on his social media account X in July 2024. He is now world’s most followed leader in office on X.

PM Modi awarded with Russia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russia’s prestigious civilian honour, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle. The award was presented by Russian President Vladimir Putin at a ceremony in St Catherine’s Hall of the Moscow Kremlin on July 9, 2024.

The award recognizes Modi’s contribution to developing a strategic partnership and fostering friendly ties between Russia and India. PM Modi was awarded in 2019 but received it physically on July 9, 2024.

The Order of St Andrew the Apostle was established in 1698 by Tsar Peter the Great.

Q: What is the name of the highest civilian award of Russia received by PM Modi during his visit in July 2024?

a) Order of Saint George
b) Order of St Andrew the Apostle
c) Order of Alexander Nevsky
d) Order of Friendship

Ans : b) Order of St Andrew the Apostle
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russia’s prestigious civilian honour, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle. The award was presented by Russian President Vladimir Putin at a ceremony in St Catherine’s Hall of the Moscow Kremlin on July 9, 2024.

Hajj, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, began in Saudi Arabia

The annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, officially began in Saudi Arabia on Friday (14 June 2024). Two million Muslim pilgrims embarked on their spiritual journey. After circling the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site, and converging on a vast tent camp in the nearby desert, the pilgrims engage in a day and night of prayer. 

Nearly 1.75 lakh pilgrims from India are participating in the Haj rituals. Out of the Indian pilgrims, 1,40,020 have traveled through the Haj Committee, and about 35,000 through private operators. Over 5,000 Indian women are participating in the pilgrimage without a Mehram (male guardian).

Q.: Where does the Hajj, an annual Muslim pilgrimage take place?

A) Jerusalem
B) Mecca
C) Medina
D) Cairo

Correct Answer: B

Around 40 Indians died, 50 Injured in a fire at a labour housing facility in Kuwait

Around 40 Indians died and over 50 were injured in a fire at a labour housing facility in Mangaf, Kuwait on June 12, 2024.

The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is working with Kuwaiti authorities and the involved company to gather full details. Injured individuals are receiving medical care in five government hospitals, with most in stable condition.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar discussed the incident with his Kuwaiti counterpart Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. Dr. Jaishankar was assured that the incident will be fully investigated and responsibilities will be assigned.

Q: Around 40 Indians died, and 50 were injured in a fire at a labour housing facility in which country on June 12, 2024?

A) United Arab Emirates
B) Saudi Arabia
C) Kuwait
D) Qatar

Ans : C) Kuwait

Indian mountaineer Satyadeep Gupta became the first person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse twice in one season

Indian mountaineer Satyadeep Gupta became the first person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse twice in one season. Gupta set a record by being the first Indian to traverse from Mt. Everest to Mt. Lhotse in 11 hours and 15 minutes.

  • He conquered the 8,516-meter-high Mt. Lhotse at noon and then ascended the 8,849-meter-high Mt. Everest at 12:45 am, midnight.
  • This achievement is the first Double Dual Ascent of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse in a single season.
  • Gupta was accompanied by climbing guides Pastemba Sherpa and Nima Ungdi Sherpa.
  • He previously summited Mt. Everest on May 21 and Mt. Lhotse on May 22.

Q: What historic feat did Indian mountaineer Satyadeep Gupta achieve?

A. First person to scale Mt. Everest three times in one season
B. First person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse twice in one season
C. First person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. K2 in one season
D. First Indian to scale Mt. Everest in 11 hours and 15 minutes

Ans : B. First person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse twice in one season

Major Radhika Sen, awarded the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year for 2023

Major Radhika Sen, an Indian peacekeeper, awarded the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year for 2023 for her service in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). She is recognized for empowering local communities, especially women and girls, during her deployment from March 2023 to April 2024.

  • Major Sen, born in 1993 in Himachal Pradesh, joined the army after graduating as a biotech engineer and pursuing a Master’s degree from IIT Bombay.
  • India is the eleventh largest contributor of women peacekeepers to the UN, with 124 currently deployed. Major Sen is the second Indian to receive the award after Major Suman Gawani in 2019.

Q: Who was named the United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year for 2023?

A. Major Suman Gawani
B. Major Radhika Sen
C. Major Antonio Guterres
D. Major Ruchira Kamboj

Ans : B. Major Radhika Sen

Purnima Shrestha become first woman to climb Mount Everest three times in 13 days

Purnima Shrestha, a 32-year-old mountaineer from Gorkha, Nepal, and a photojournalist become first woman to climb Mount Everest three times in the same season.

  • Achieved the triple ascent in just 13 days.
  • Surpassed the previous record of any woman summiteer for climbing Everest thrice in a single season.
  • Has climbed Everest four times, with her first summit in 2018.
  • Her achievement symbolizes the empowerment of female climbers and serves as an inspiration for women to pursue their dreams.

Q: Who became the first woman to climb Mount Everest three times in the same season?

a) Junko Tabei
b) Purnima Shrestha
c) Pasang Lhamu Sherpa
d) Lhakpa Sherpa

Ans : b) Purnima Shrestha

Arti, Pink E-Rickshaw driver from Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh, won the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award 2024

Arti, an 18-year-old Pink E-Rickshaw driver from Uttar Pradesh from Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh, won the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award on 22 May 2024.

  • The award was presented at the Prince’s Trust Awards in London, where Arti met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace.
  • Arti’s work centers on the Pink E-rickshaw initiative in India, offering safe, eco-friendly transportation for women with battery-powered rickshaws that reduce pollution.
  • The award honors young women who have overcome adversity and made a significant impact on their community.
  • Arti’s work in a male-dominated field has improved women’s safety in her community, and she aims to secure a better future for her daughter.
  • Arti traveled to the Buckingham Palace reception in a pink rickshaw, symbolizing sustainable transport.
  • The Prince’s Trust International, founded by King Charles, supports young people in 20 countries.
  • Project Lehar, in collaboration with the Prince’s Trust International and the Aga Khan Foundation, introduced Arti to the Pink E-Rickshaw scheme.
  • Arti’s journey from a small village to Buckingham Palace highlights determination, innovation, and community impact.

Q: What prestigious award did Arti, Pink E-Rickshaw driver from Uttar Pradesh win on 22 May 2024?

A) Nobel Peace Prize
B) Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award
C) International Women of Courage Award
D) Global Humanitarian Award

Ans : B) Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award

India’s rank on Travel & Tourism Development Index improved to 39th place, the highest in South Asia

The Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 (TTDI) is published by the World Economic Forum on May 21, 2024. India’s rank on the TTDI 2024 has improved to 39th place, the highest in South Asia and among lower-middle-income economies.

Key rankings for India:

  • Price Competitiveness: 18th
  • Air Transport Infrastructure: 26th
  • Ground and Port Infrastructure: 25th
  • Natural Resources: 6th
  • Cultural Resources: 9th
  • Non-Leisure Resources: 9th

Sustainability: India scores well for travel and tourism demand sustainability despite a decline compared to 2019.

Overall TTDI Score: India’s score is 2.1% below its 2019 level due to global inflationary supply-side trends, with declines in price competitiveness and air transport and tourist services infrastructure.

Reference : Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024

Q: What is India’s rank on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, published by World Economic Forum (WEF)?

a) 29th
b) 39th
c) 49th
d) 59th

Ans : b) 39th

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed as National Ambassador for UNICEF India

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed as National Ambassador for UNICEF India in May 2024. She will support UNICEF India’s mission focusing on children’s rights, including early childhood development, health, education, and gender equality.

  • Kareena Kapoor Khan has been associated with UNICEF India since 2014 as a Celebrity Advocate, advocating for girls’ education, gender equality, foundational learning, immunization, and breastfeeding.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasized the importance of children’s learning and safe return to school.
  • She has participated in UNICEF’s global campaigns on #EveryChildRights.

Question : Who was appointed as the National Ambassador for UNICEF India in May 2024?

a) Priyanka Chopra
b) Kareena Kapoor Khan
c) Deepika Padukone
d) Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Answer: b) Kareena Kapoor Khan

Mukesh Ambani: Asia’s Wealthiest and Elon Musk: World’s Richest Person

The Hurun Global Rich List 2024, released on 26 March 2024 reported 167 new billionaires worldwide, totaling 3,279 individuals.

  1. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, retained his position as Asia’s richest person, with a net worth of USD 115 billion, despite slipping one place to 10th globally.
  2. Gautam Adani, founder of the Adani Group, experienced a remarkable surge in wealth, reaching USD 86 billion and securing the 15th spot globally, attributed to a rally in his companies’ shares.
  3. The United States added 109 billionaires, maintaining its lead with 800 billionaires, while China retained its position as the world leader with 814 billionaires, despite a decline in numbers.
  4. Elon Musk reclaimed his title as the world’s richest person with a net worth of USD 231 billion, followed by Jeff Bezos and Bernard Arnault.
  5. India saw a significant rise in its billionaire population, ranking third globally with 271 billionaires, marking an addition of 84 individuals, and Mumbai surpassed Beijing as Asia’s billionaire capital for the first time.

Q: Who reclaimed the title of the world’s richest person according to the Hurun Global Rich List 2024?

a) Bernard Arnault
b) Jeff Bezos
c) Elon Musk
d) Mukesh Ambani

Ans : c) Elon Musk

Q: Who retained the title of Asia’s richest person according to the Hurun Global Rich List 2024?

a) Elon Musk
b) Jeff Bezos
c) Mukesh Ambani
d) Gautam Adani

Ans : c) Mukesh Ambani

Q: Which city surpassed Beijing to become Asia’s billionaire capital for the first time, according to the information provided?

a) Shanghai
b) Mumbai
c) Tokyo
d) Seou

Ans : b) Mumbai

Dubai to have world’s first air taxi, agreements signed at World Government Summit 2024

Dubai has signed agreements at the World Government Summit 2024 to launch the world’s first air taxi service. Agreements pave the way for the deployment of a city-wide electric aerial taxi service and vertiport network in Dubai.

  1. Joby Aviation S4 Aircraft:
    • The initiative centers around the Joby Aviation S4, an innovative aircraft designed for four passengers and a pilot.
    • The S4 features six propellers and is powered by four battery packs.
    • It has a maximum range of 161 km and a top speed of 321 km per hour.
  2. Urban-Friendly Features:
    • Vertical take-off and landing capabilities make the S4 ideal for urban settings, minimizing space requirements and reducing noise pollution compared to helicopters.
  3. Benefits of the Air Taxi Project:
    • Promises reduced noise levels, zero operating emissions, and enhanced passenger convenience.
    • Aims for efficiency, safety, and sustainability in urban transportation.
  4. Integration into Urban Landscape:
    • Aerial vehicles aim to seamlessly integrate into Dubai’s urban landscape, providing swift and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
  5. Electric-Powered and Rechargeable:
    • The electric-powered aircraft can be swiftly recharged between flights, contributing to sustainability goals.
  6. Operational Commencement:
    • The air-taxi network is set to commence operations in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Dubai’s efforts to redefine urban mobility.

Q: What city is launching the world’s first air taxi service?

A) Singapore
B) Dubai
C) Tokyo
D) New York

Ans : B) Dubai

Discovery of Ancient Stone Wall in Baltic Sea, Potentially Over 10,000 Years Old

  1. Discovery of Ancient Stone Wall:
    • Researchers have found a stone wall off the German coast in the Baltic Sea.
    • The wall is approximately 1 kilometer long.
    • It is situated around 10 kilometers from the coast of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in Germany.
    • Discovered at a depth of 21 meters in the Baltic Sea.
  2. Potential Age of the Structure:
    • The wall may be more than 10,000 years old.
    • If confirmed, it could be the oldest man-made structure in the Baltic Sea region.
  3. Characteristics of the Wall:
    • Comprises almost 1,700 stones, mostly tennis and football-sized.
    • Stones are generally under a meter in height.
  4. Geographical Change Over Time:
    • The area was flooded around 8,500 years ago, transforming it from dry land to underwater.
    • Before submersion, the location was likely dry land.
  5. Purpose of the Wall:
    • Researchers theorize that the wall was constructed for hunting purposes.
    • Specifically, it may have been built to trap Reindeer.
  6. Comparisons with Other Discoveries:
    • Similar constructions for Reindeer hunting have been found in Lake Michigan in the United States.
  7. Significance of Discovery:
    • The potential age and purpose of the stone wall make it a significant archaeological find in the Baltic Sea region.

Q: Where was the recently discovered ancient stone wall located?

  • A. Pacific Ocean
  • B. Baltic Sea
  • C. Mediterranean Sea
  • D. North Sea

Ans : B. Baltic Sea

India International Jewellery Trade Show -IIJS 2024 in Mumbai

  1. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the India International Jewellery Trade Show – IIJS 2024 in Mumbai on January 4, 2024.
  2. Mr. Goyal emphasized that the combination of fashion and jewelry can position India as a sought-after wedding destination worldwide.
  3. Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, Mr. Vipul Shah, predicted the growth of India’s domestic gem and jewelry market from $44 billion to $134 billion by 2030.
  4. Nirav Bhansali, Convener-National Exhibitions, GJEPC, highlighted the integration of IIJS Signature 2024 Exhibition into the MSME Ministry’s ‘Procurement and Marketing Support’ initiative, providing a significant boost to micro and small enterprises in the industry.
  5. The 16th edition of the India International Jewellery Trade Show features 1,500 exhibitors, 3,000 stalls, and covers a vast 1.25 lakh square meters of exhibition area.
  6. The exhibition is held at JIO World Convention Centre, BKC from January 4th to 7th and at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon from January 5th to 8th.
  7. Over 32 thousand visitors are expected from 800 Indian cities and 60 countries during the event.

Q: Where is the 16th edition of the India International Jewellery Trade Show taking place?
a. Chennai
b. Pune
c. Mumbai
d. New Delhi

Ans : c. Mumbai

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