Current Affairs

President Approved Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand Bill, 2024

President Droupadi Murmu approved the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Uttarakhand Bill, 2024.

Uttarakhand will become the first State in the country to implement the UCC.

The Bill addresses practices such as polygamy, polyandry, halala, iddat, and talaaq, and ensures property rights, equal marriageable age, and equal inheritance rights.

On the 7th of February 2024, the Uttarakhand Assembly passed the Uniform Civil Code Bill. With the enactment of UCC law, everyone in the State will get equal rights without any discrimination in matters like maintenance, adoption, inheritance and divorce.

Q: Which state recently became the first in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) ?

a) Uttar Pradesh
b) Uttarakhand
c) Punjab
d) Maharashtra

Ans : b) Uttarakhand

One Nation One Election report submitted to President Droupadi Murmu

A High-Level Committee, chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, submitted a report on “One Nation One Election” to President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on 14 March 2024 .

This report, which comprises 18,626 pages and took 191 days of extensive consultations with stakeholders and experts, is considered crucial for Aspirational India according to the Law and Justice Ministry.

The submission ceremony was attended by various dignitaries including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission NK Singh.

Q: What is the concept of “One Nation One Election”?

a) A campaign to promote unity among political parties
b) A proposal for simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies
c) A national holiday for voting across all states
d) A constitutional amendment to limit the number of political parties allowed to contest elections

Ans : b) A proposal for simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu Appointed Election Commissioners

Retired IAS officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu have been appointed as Election Commissioners.

The posts of the two Election Commissioners were vacant after the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey and the resignation of Arun Goel.

Prior to this appointment, the Election Commission had only one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Rajiv Kumar.

Q: Who among the following have been recently appointed as an Election Commissioner in India?

A) Umesh Sinha and Gyanesh Kumar
B) Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar
C) Sunil Arora and Sukhbir Sandhu
D) Sushil Chandra and Rajiv Kumar

Ans : B) Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar

Defence Ministry to procure Advanced Light Helicopters from HAL for Indian Army and Coast Guard

The Ministry of Defence has signed two contracts worth 8,073 crore rupees with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the acquisition of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters on 13 March 2024.

  1. A deal has been finalized to acquire 25 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for the Indian Army and 9 ALH for maritime purposes for the Indian Coast Guard.
  2. The procurement falls under the “buy Indian-indigenously designed, developed and manufactured” category.
  3. The ALHs designated for the Indian Army are intended for tasks including search and rescue, troop transportation, internal cargo, and casualty evacuation operations.
  4. The ALHs designated for maritime roles are tailored for operations such as maritime surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue missions, as well as cargo and personnel transportation.

Q: What is the purpose of the 25 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) procured for the Indian Army?

a) Maritime surveillance
b) Troop transportation
c) Cargo transportation
d) Passenger transportation

Ans : b) Troop transportation

PM of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Tobgay is on five day visit to India

Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, is embarking on a five-day visit to India starting from March 14, 2024.

  1. This visit marks his first overseas trip since assuming office in January of the same year.
  2. During the visit, Prime Minister Tobgay will meet with President Droupadi Murmu and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Additionally, he will visit Mumbai.
  3. Accompanying Prime Minister Tobgay will be several ministers from Bhutan including the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment, along with senior officials.
  4. India and Bhutan share strong ties of friendship and cooperation based on trust, goodwill, and mutual understanding across all levels.
  5. The visit presents an opportunity for both sides to assess the progress in their unique partnership and discuss ways to further expand their enduring ties of friendship and cooperation.

Q: Which of the following is the Prime Minister of Bhutan?

a) Dasho Tshering Tobgay
b) Pravind Kumar Jugnauth
c) Asif Ali Jardari
d) Sheikh Hasina

Ans : a) Dasho Tshering Tobgay

World Kidney Day : second Thursday of March, every year

The World Kidney Day is observed on the second Thursday of March, every year to create awareness among the people about kidney health and the various diseases that can affect its normal function.

World Kidney Day (14 March 2024) theme is- “Kidney Health For All”. The theme focuses on the increasing burden of chronic kidney disease and achieving optimal kidney care to overcome these challenges at different levels. Kidneys are one of the most important organs of the body and help remove the toxins from the body to keep it fit and healthy.

Q: When is World Kidney Day celebrated every year? 

(A) The first Monday of March 
(B) The second Thursday of March
(C) The last Friday of March
(D) A random day in March

Ans : (B) The second Thursday of March

PM Modi witness “Exercise Bharat Shakti” in Pokhran

On March 12, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed the “Bharat Shakti” exercise held in Pokhran. This exercise showcased the capabilities of indigenously manufactured defense weapons as part of the “atma nirbharta” (self-reliance) campaign. The demonstration highlighted the integrated firepower and maneuvering capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force at the Pokhran field firing range.

During the exercise, the indigenous prowess of the three services was demonstrated through a variety of weaponry. The skies reverberated with the sounds of the LCA Tejas and ALH Mk-IV helicopters, showcasing the aerial capabilities. On the ground, main battle tanks such as the Arjun and K-9 Vajra, as well as artillery gun systems like the Dhanush and Sharang, dominated the firing ranges, demonstrating the ground-based firepower.

Q: What is Exercise Bharat Shakti held in Pokhran on 12 March 2024? 

A) A yoga and meditation event held annually in India.
B) A military exercise showcasing indigenous defense capabilities.
C) A cultural festival celebrating India’s rich heritage.
D) A scientific expedition to Antarctica.

Answer: B) A military exercise showcasing indigenous defense capabilities.

Fly91 Airline’s Inaugural Flight Flagged Off, Scheduled Flights To Start From March 18

On March 12, 2024, Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, inaugurated Fly91, a regional airline. The Minister flagged off its maiden flight between Manohar International Airport (MOPA) in Goa and the Agatti Islands, Lakshadweep.

Fly91’s scheduled flights are set to commence from March 18, 2024. Initially, the airline will operate routes between Manohar International Airport, Goa, and cities such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jalgaon, Agatti, Pune, and Nanded. Subsequently, additional connections will be established from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune to Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Nanded, and Goa. These new routes aim to enhance connectivity across the nation, boost tourism, facilitate trade, and provide passengers with an affordable, safe, and hassle-free travel experience.

Q: What is Fly91?

  • A) A new regional airline
  • B) A popular tourist destination
  • C) A type of bird
  • D) A fictional superhero

Answer: A) A new regional airline

Nayab Saini Takes Oath As Chief Minister of Haryana

Nayab Singh Saini, a leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), become the Chief Minister of Haryana. His oath-taking ceremony took place on March 12, 2024.

About Nayab Singh Saini and his journey to the chief minister’s office:

  • Nayab Singh Saini, aged 54, represents the Kurukshetra constituency as a Member of Parliament (MP).
  • He hails from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community.
  • Saini’s political journey began in 1996 when he joined the BJP. Over the years, he steadily climbed the party ranks.
  • Notably, he served as the district general secretary of the BJP Youth Wing in Ambala in 2002 and later became the district president in Ambala in 2005.
  • In 2014, Saini was elected as an MLA from the Narayangarh constituency.
  • Subsequently, he assumed the role of a minister in the Haryana government in 2016.
  • His victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the Kurukshetra constituency further solidified his position in Haryana politics.

Q: Who became the Chief Minister of Haryana in March 2024?

A) Manohar Lal Khattar
B) Nayab Singh Saini
C) Dushyant Chautala
D) Biplab Dev

Ans : B) Nayab Singh Saini

Govt announces implementation of Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA)

On March 11, 2024, the Indian government made an announcement regarding the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA). This development comes four years after the contentious law was initially passed, and it has significant implications for certain categories of migrants in India.

Here are the key points related to the implementation of the CAA:

  1. Purpose of CAA:
    • The CAA aims to provide citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India before December 31, 2014.
    • The law specifically targets persecuted minorities from these countries, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians.
  2. Rules Issued:
    • With the issuance of the CAA rules, the Modi government will now begin granting Indian nationality to the eligible non-Muslim migrants from the three countries.
    • The rules enable these individuals to apply for Indian citizenship through a completely online mode, facilitated by a dedicated web portal.
  3. Background:
    • The CAA was passed in December 2019 and received presidential assent. However, widespread protests erupted across various parts of the country against its provisions.
    • Until now, the law could not be fully implemented because the rules had not been officially notified.
    • The Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024 now pave the way for eligible migrants to seek Indian citizenship.

Q: What was the purpose of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA)?

A) To provide citizenship to all migrants from neighboring countries
B) To grant Indian nationality to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan
C) To promote religious diversity in India
D) To restrict immigration from specific countries

Answer: B) To grant Indian nationality to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan

First flight test of Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle technology conducted successfully

On March 11, 2024, India achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting the first flight test of its indigenously developed Agni-5 missile under the project named “Mission Divyastra”. This advanced missile is equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology

Here are the key details :

  • Agni-5 Missile: The Agni-5 is a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a remarkable range of more than 5,000 kilometers. It can carry a nuclear warhead weighing over one tonne.
  • MIRV Capability: With the successful test of Mission Divyastra, India has joined the select group of nations possessing a weapons system with MIRV capability. MIRV allows a single missile to carry multiple independently targeted warheads, enhancing its effectiveness.
  • Indigenous Development: The Agni-5 missile was developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It uses a three-stage solid-fuel engine and is equipped with indigenous avionics systems and high-accuracy sensor packages.
  • Striking Range: The Agni-5’s impressive range enables it to bring almost the entire Asia, including the northernmost part of China, as well as some regions in Europe, under its striking capability.
  • Historical Context: The development of Agni missiles began in the early 1980s under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, led by the renowned scientist and former President of India, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.

MCQs

  1. What technology does the Agni-5 missile possess?
    • A) Hypersonic propulsion
    • B) Stealth capabilities
    • C) Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology
    • D) Laser guidance system
    Answer: C) Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology
  2. Who developed the Agni-5 missile?
    • A) NASA
    • B) European Space Agency (ESA)
    • C) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
    • D) SpaceX
    Answer: C) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
  3. What is the range of the Agni-5 missile?
    • A) 1,000 km
    • B) 3,500 km
    • C) 5,000 km
    • D) 10,000 km
    Answer: C) 5,000 km

Female cheetah Gamini gives birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park

Female cheetah Gamini, originally from South Africa, gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park on March 10, 2024.

  1. Gamini is approximately five years old.
  2. This brings the total count of Indian-born cheetah cubs to 13.
  3. The current population of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, including the new cubs, is twenty-six.
  4. The cheetah reintroduction project involved releasing eight Namibian cheetahs (five females and three males) into enclosures at Kuno National Park on September 17, 2022.
  5. In February 2023, an additional 12 cheetahs were brought to the park from South Africa, including Gamini.

Q: Which female cheetah recently (in March 2024) gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park?

a) Gauri
b) Gamini
c) Chitra
d) Laila

Ans : b) Gamini

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty win Doubles title at French Open badminton tournament

Indian pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have clinched their second French Open Men’s doubles Badminton title on 10 March 2024 in Paris.

  • The Indian top seed registered a straight games victory over Yang Po-han and Lee Jhe-huei of Taiwan in the final 21-11, 21-17.
  • Satwik and Chirag had earlier won the title in 2022.

Q: Who won the French Open Men’s doubles Badminton title in 2024?

a) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
b) Yang Po-han and Lee Jhe-huei
c) Kento Momota and Hiroyuki Endo
d) Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo and Marcus Fernaldi Gideon

Ans : a) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty

Oscar Awards: “Oppenheimer” bags six awards including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director

96th Oscar Awards was held on March 10, 2024 at Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California.

  • Best Picture: “Oppenheimer” won the award.
  • Best Actor: Cillian Murphy received the trophy.
  • Best Director: Christopher Nolan won for his work on “Oppenheimer.”
  • Emma Stone won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Poor Things,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos.
  • “Oppenheimer” won a total of six awards, including Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor for Robert Downey Jr.
  • The film also won awards for Best Film Editing, Cinematography, and Original Score.
  • “Oppenheimer” had 13 nominations, indicating its significant presence and recognition at the Oscars.

Q: Who won the Best Actor Oscar award at the 96th Academy Awards?

A) Cillian Murphy
B) Robert Downey Jr.
C) Christopher Nolan
D) Emma Stone

Answer: A) Cillian Murphy

Q: Which film received the Best Oscar Picture award?

A) “Oppenheimer”
B) “American Fiction”
C) “How Do You Live?”
D) “Barbie”

Answer: A) “Oppenheimer”

CISF Raising Day 2024 (10 March), Celebration on March 12th, 2024 at RTC Bhilai

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a paramilitary force, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the assets and infrastructure of our nation. On March 10, every year, the CISF commemorates its establishment with CISF Raising Day.

This year Celebration to marks the 55th anniversary of CISF will take place at RTC Bhilai on March 12th, 2024. Hon’ble MoS (Home) Nityanand Rai to be Chief Guest.

History of CISF:

  • The need for specialized security forces in critical sectors led to the establishment of the CISF.
  • Under the CISF Act, 1968, the force was formed to address these growing security needs.
  • Initially, the CISF had only three battalions and 2,800 personnel. Over time, it has grown to become one of the largest and strongest security forces in India, with 165,000 personnel.
  • The CISF’s primary responsibilities include safeguarding government infrastructure projects, industrial establishments, and public sector undertakings.

Q: When is CISF Raising Day celebrated annually?

a) March 12th
b) March 10th
c) March 15th
d) March 20th

Ans : b) March 10th

INS Jatayu, a new naval base, was commissioned at Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep

INS Jatayu, a new naval base, was commissioned at Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago on March 6, 2024.

  • Minicoy Island is strategically important due to its location in the Arabian Sea and its position along vital sea lines of communication.
  • The commissioning of INS Jatayu strengthens India’s naval presence in the Lakshadweep region and enhances operational capabilities.
  • The naval base extends India’s operational reach, surveillance capabilities, and contributes to comprehensive development by improving connectivity between the islands and the mainland.
  • The commissioning ceremony was attended by Admiral R Hari Kumar (Chief of Naval Staff), Shri Praful K Patel (Hon’ble Administrator of Lakshadweep), and Vice Admiral V Srinivas (Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command).

Q: What is INS Jatayu?

a) A new aircraft carrier commissioned by the Indian Navy
b) A naval base commissioned at Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep
c) A submarine deployed in the Indian Ocean
d) A missile destroyer inducted into the Indian Navy

Ans : b) A naval base commissioned at Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep

Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen reached the semi-finals in the French Open Badminton tournament

Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen reached the semi-finals in the French Open Badminton Men’s Singles category on 8 March 2024.

  1. He defeated Loh Kean Yew of Singapore with a score of 19-21, 21-15, 21-13 in Paris, France.
  2. Lakshya Sen’s victory sets up a semi-final match against Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand.
  3. In the Mixed Doubles category, the Indian pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty also advanced to the semi-finals.
  4. They are scheduled to face the South Korean pair of Seo Seung Jae and Hyuk Min Kang

Q: Who reached the semi-finals in the French Open Badminton Men’s Singles category ?

a) Lakshya Sen
b) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy
c) Chirag Shetty
d) Kunlavut Vitidsarn

Ans : a) Lakshya Sen

India receives ‘Measles and Rubella Champion’ Global Award for combating these Diseases

  1. India has been awarded the measles and rubella champion award for its efforts in combating measles and rubella diseases.
  2. The award was received by Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan on behalf of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at the American Red Cross Headquarters in Washington on March 6th.
  3. The Health Ministry’s statement highlights India’s commitment to public health and leadership in curbing the spread of measles and rubella among children.
  4. Despite challenges, India has made remarkable progress in reducing measles and rubella cases and preventing outbreaks through comprehensive interventions.
  5. The award recognizes the dedication and hard work of frontline health workers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities across the nation.
  6. Efforts have resulted in 50 districts not witnessing any measles cases and 226 districts not reporting rubella cases over the past 12 months.
  7. The measles and rubella partnership involves various organizations such as the American Red Cross, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, GAVI, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization.
  8. These organizations are dedicated to reducing global measles deaths and preventing rubella illness.

Q: Why did India receive the measles and rubella champion award?

a) For its outstanding leadership in promoting public awareness campaigns.
b) For its remarkable progress in reducing measles and rubella cases.
c) For its significant contributions to healthcare research.
d) For its successful implementation of universal healthcare coverage.

Ans : b) For its remarkable progress in reducing measles and rubella cases.

PM Modi presented first ever “National Creators Award” in New Delhi

The National Creators Award, a prestigious recognition, was presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on 8 March 2024. This inaugural award aims to celebrate excellence and impact across various domains, including storytelling, social change advocacy, environmental sustainability, education, and gaming. It serves as a launchpad for using creativity to drive positive change.

The award witnessed remarkable public engagement, with over 1.5 lakh nominations received across twenty categories. In the subsequent voting round, approximately 10 lakh votes were cast for digital creators in various award categories. The winners, including three international creators, were selected based on this overwhelming public participation, truly reflecting the people’s choice.

Here are some of the twenty award categories:

  1. Best Storyteller Award
  2. Disruptor of the Year
  3. Celebrity Creator of the Year
  4. Green Champion Award
  5. Best Creator for Social Change
  6. Most Impactful Agri Creator
  7. Cultural Ambassador of the Year
  8. International Creator Award
  9. Best Travel Creator Award
  10. Swachhta Ambassador Award
  11. The New India Champion Award
  12. Tech Creator Award
  13. Heritage Fashion Icon Award
  14. Most Creative Creator (Male & Female)
  15. Best Creator in Food Category
  16. Best Creator in Education Category
  17. Best Creator in Gaming Category
  18. Best Micro Creator
  19. Best Nano Creator
  20. Best Health and Fitness Creator

Q: Which “National Creators Award” category honors creators making a significant contribution to environmental sustainability?

a) Best Storyteller Award
b) Disruptor of the Year
c) Green Champion Award
d) Tech Creator Award

Ans : c) Green Champion Award

Sahityotsav, the world’s largest literary festival from March 11th to 16th 2024

Sahityotsav, the world’s largest literary festival organized by Sahitya Akademi, will be held from March 11th to 16th 2024.

  • Commemorating 70 years of Sahitya Akademi, the festival will feature over a hundred renowned writers and scholars.
  • More than 190 sessions will take place, representing over 175 languages of India.
  • The Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023 presentation ceremony will be a highlight on March 12th in New Delhi, with distinguished Odia writer Pratibha Rai as the Chief Guest.
  • Renowned Urdu writer and lyricist Gulzar will deliver the Samvatsar lecture on March 13th.
  • Key highlights of the festival include multilingual poetry reading, short story reading, panel discussions on various literary topics like Bhakti Literature, Children’s Literature, Tribal Poets’ and Writers’ Meet, etc.
  • Special programs include All India Differently Abled Writers’ Meet, LGBTQ Writers’ Meet, Seminar on the birth centenary of Mir Taqi Mir, and a symposium on Gopichand Narang.
  • Activities for children include painting competitions, literary quizzes, and other competitions expected to involve over a thousand participants from Delhi and NCR.

Q: What is the name of the world’s largest literary festival organized by Sahitya Akademi in March 2024 in New Delhi?

a) Sahitya Mahotsav
b) Kavyotsav
c) Sahityotsav
d) Kathautsav

Correct answer: c) Sahityotsav

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the remarkable contributions of women worldwide. Let’s delve into the significance and theme for International Women’s Day 2024:

History: International Women’s Day originated from women’s movements in the early 20th century. Designated by the United Nations in 1975, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality.

2024 Theme: Inspire Inclusion: The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion”.

Q: What is the date of International Women’s Day?

A) March 8
B) April 15
C) May 1
D) June 21

A) March 8

United States Presidential Election 2024: Nikki Haley Suspends Campaign, Trump Emerges as Leading Republican Candidate

Nikki Haley, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Republican candidate, has suspended her 2024 presidential campaign.

  • Donald Trump remains the last major candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination following Haley’s decision.
  • The 2024 United States presidential election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.
  • President Joe Biden running for re-election as a Democrat and Donald Trump seeking re-election as a Republican.
  • If both Biden and Trump are nominated, it would mark the first presidential rematch since 1956, with Trump becoming the first former president on the ballot since 1912.

Q: Who remains as the leading Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential nomination after Nikki Haley’s exit?

a) Joe Biden
b) Nikki Haley
c) Donald Trump
d) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Ans : c) Donald Trump

President Droupadi Murmu Conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards To Ninety-Four Eminent Artists

President Droupadi Murmu conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for the Years 2022 and 2023 to ninety-four eminent artists in New Delhi on 6 March 2024.

  • Awards were given in various fields such as music, dance, drama, folk and tribal arts, puppetry, and allied theatre art forms.
  • Seven eminent artists were bestowed with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (Akademi Ratna).
  • Union Minister for Culture G Kishan Reddy hailed the awards as an honor for the entire field of art and praised the Akademi’s efforts in promoting and protecting Indian arts.
  • Notable recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship included Vinayak Khedekar, R Visweswaran, Nitu Kumari Nootan, Shailesh Shrivastava, and Maddali Usha Gayatri.
  • The fellowship is the highest honor in the performing arts field, recognizing exceptional contributions with a purse money of three lakh rupees, while the Akademi Award carries a purse money of one lakh rupees.

Q: What fields were the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards given in?

a) Music only
b) Dance only
c) Multiple fields including music, dance, drama, and folk arts
d) Literature

Ans : c) Multiple fields including music, dance, drama, and folk arts

Yatin Bhaskar Duggal from Haryana Wins First Prize in National Youth Parliament Festival 2024

Yatin Bhaskar Duggal from Haryana secured the first prize in the National Youth Parliament Festival 2024, with Vaishna Pitchai from Tamil Nadu and Kanishka Sharma from Rajasthan claiming the second and third prizes respectively.

  • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the importance of youth in India’s progress towards becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, highlighting their thinking capability, innovation, and work ethic. He stressed India’s role in leading the world.
  • The finals of the Youth Parliament saw the participation of eighty-seven State-level winners in New Delhi.

Q: Who won the first prize in the National Youth Parliament Festival 2024?

a) Vaishna Pitchai
b) Kanishka Sharma
c) Yatin Bhaskar Duggal
d) Om Birla

ans : c) Yatin Bhaskar Duggal

Shehbaz Sharif sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan

Shehbaz Sharif was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan on 4 March 2024.

  • Background:
    • Shehbaz Sharif hails from the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) party.
    • He emerged as the nominated candidate of a new eight-party coalition formed after no single party secured an outright majority in the election held on February 8.
    • His opponent was Omer Ayub, representing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, which will now serve as the opposition in parliament.
  • Previous Stint as Prime Minister:
    • Shehbaz Sharif previously held the position of Prime Minister from April 2022 until August 2023. His tenure began after the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
  • Formation of Coalition:
    • Following the contentious February election, the PML-N engaged in negotiations with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and other smaller parties.
    • The coalition agreement stipulated that Shehbaz Sharif would serve as Prime Minister, while Asif Ali Zadari of the PPP would assume the role of President.
    • Smaller parties joining the coalition were promised cabinet posts.

Q: Who was recently sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan?

A) Nawaz Sharif
B) Imran Khan
C) Shehbaz Sharif
D) Asif Ali Zadari

Correct Answer: C) Shehbaz Sharif

Q: Which political party does Shehbaz Sharif belong to?

A) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
B) Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)
C) Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N)
D) Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

Correct Answer: C) Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N)

India’s first underwater metro rail service in Kolkata inaugurated by PM Modi

On March 6, 2024,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first-ever underwater metro section in Kolkata. This remarkable feat of engineering spans a distance of 16.6 kilometers beneath the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata’s twin cities: Howrah and Salt Lake.

Here are the key points about this groundbreaking project:

  1. Underwater Marvel:
    • The metro tunnel runs beneath the River Hooghly, making it the first transportation tunnel under any mighty river in India.
    • The Howrah Metro Station, located beneath the river, is the deepest station in the country, with tunnels extending 32 meters below the water level.
    • The underwater metro section covers a 520-meter stretch under the river, allowing commuters to traverse this distance in just 45 seconds.
  2. East-West Metro Corridor:
    • The underwater metro is part of the East-West Metro corridor, linking Howrah Maidan to the IT hub Salt Lake Sector V.
    • In April 2023, Kolkata Metro made history by running a train through the tunnel under the Hooghly River as part of trials, a first in India. This section is 4.8 kilometers long and connects Howrah Maidan to the Esplanade.
  3. Automatic Train Operation (ATO):
    • The metro uses a system called Automatic Train Operation (ATO). After the motorman presses a button, the train moves automatically to the next station.
    • Out of the total 16.6 kilometers of the East-West Metro, 10.8 kilometers are underground, including the tunnel under the Hooghly River. The rest is above ground.

Q: Which station is the deepest in the underwater metro system?

A) Salt Lake Sector V
B) Howrah Maidan
C) Esplanade
D) Howrah Metro Station

Answer: D) Howrah Metro Station

Q: Which river does the underwater metro tunnel pass beneath?

A) Yamuna
B) Ganges
C) Brahmaputra
D) Hooghly

Answer: D) Hooghly

‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ for Farmers’ Fair Prices and Easy Warehousing launched by Piyush Goyal

The ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative was launched on March 4, 2024 by Shri Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Commerce and Industry, and Textiles.

The ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ is initiative of Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA).

‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative will ease the farmers’ warehousing logistics with the help of technology and aid the farmers in receiving fair prices for their produce. 

Q: What is the primary objective of the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative?

  • A) To promote organic farming
  • B) To ease farmers’ warehousing logistics
  • C) To provide subsidies for fertilizers
  • D) To enhance irrigation facilities

Ans : Answer: B To ease farmers’ warehousing logistics

France becomes the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution

France becomes the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution.

  • The amendment is passed by French lawmakers with an overwhelming majority of 780 to 72 in a special session of both houses of Parliament.
  • The amendment guarantees freedom to abortion in France.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron announces a formal ceremony to celebrate the passage of the amendment on International Women’s Rights Day, which falls on Friday.
  • Abortion has been legal in France since 1975 under a law named after Simone Veil, the health minister who advocated for it. Initially allowing abortion up to the tenth week of pregnancy, it was extended to the twelfth week in 2001 and further to the fourteenth week in 2022. The procedure has been covered by France’s national healthcare system since the 1980s.

Q: What is the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution?

a) United States
b) France
c) Canada
d) United Kingdom

Correct answer: b) France

RBI to Launch Interoperable Payment System for Internet Banking in 2024

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to launch interoperable payment system for internet banking in 2024.

  • System will be implemented by NPCI Bharat BillPay and aims to facilitate quicker settlement of funds for merchants.
  • This addresses delays and settlement risks for merchants using payment aggregators for internet banking transactions.
  • India accounts for nearly 46% of global digital transactions and UPI is the leading payment system with close to 80% share.
  • UPI transactions have grown significantly and new user registrations are increasing.
  • RBI emphasizes trust in digital payments is built on transparency, ease of use, and security and promotes awareness programs.

Q. Which organization will be responsible for implementing the new interoperable payment system?

a) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
c) NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (Correct)
d) Payment Aggregators (PAs)

Ans : b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

Amrit Udyan of Rashtrapati Bhavan open for public viewing till 31st of March

Udyan Utsav 2024, India’s flowering extravaganza at Amrit Udyan, is open to the public from February 2nd to March 31st, 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

  • Amrit Udyan spans 15 acres and is considered the soul of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, comprising various gardens including East Lawn, Central Lawn, Long Garden, Circular Garden, Herbal-I, Herbal-II, Tactile Garden, Bonsai Garden, and Arogya Vanam.
  • This edition of Udyan Utsav 2024 features Tulips, Daffodils, Asiatic Lily, Oriental Lily, and other rare seasonal flowers, with the key attractions being the floral patterns of Tulips and over 100 varieties of Roses.
  • Visitors can explore multiple attractions including Bal Vatika, a garden for children with a 225-year-old Sheesham tree, a treehouse, and Nature’s classroom. Other attractions include Bonsai, Circular Gardens, and a vibrant food court with ongoing exhibitions.
  • The gardens are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM) and entry is from Gate No. 35 of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, near North Avenue.
  • On specific days (February 26th, 27th, March 1st, and 5th, 2024), the Udyan will be open only for special visitations from select diverse groups. The Gardens will be closed on all Mondays for maintenance and on Holi (March 25th, 2024) for a Gazetted Holiday.

Q: What is Udyan Utsav 2024, celebrated at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, from February 2nd to March 31st, 2024?

a) A music festival
b) A flowering extravaganza
c) A food carnival
d) A cultural exhibition

Ans : b) A flowering extravaganza

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