States Current Affairs

 

Current Affairs from States of India, important for Competitive Exam. 

Hemant Soren, took oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand

Hemant Soren, Executive President of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), took oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand on July 4, 2024.

This is Hemant Soren’s third term as Chief Minister. Soren was recently released on bail by the high court in an alleged money laundering case.

Champai Soren resigned as Jharkhand’s 12th Chief Minister, who had taken office on January 31, after Hemant Soren’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate.

Q: Who took oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand on July 4, 2024?

a) Champai Soren
b) CP Radhakrishnan
c) Hemant Soren
d) Raghubar Das

Ans : c) Hemant Soren
Hemant Soren, Executive President of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), took oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand on July 4, 2024.

Stampede at Bhole Baba’s “Satsang” in Hathras district of UP, 121 dead

The stampede accident during the satsang of Bhole Baba on June2, 2024, in Ratibhanpur Mughalgarhi village, Sikandrarau tehsil, Hathras district, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in 121 deaths. Seriously injured people are undergoing treatment in Aligarh.

  • Aligarh Division Commissioner Chaitra B. provided the information and confirmed that permission was given for the program.
  • Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a meeting with senior officials in Lucknow.
  • Ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50 thousand each to the injured will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

Q: The tragic accident during the satsang of Bhole Baba that killed 121 people in July 2024 occurred in which district of Uttar Pradesh?

A) Aligarh
B) Agra
C) Hathras
D) Lucknow

Answer: C) Hathras
The stampede accident during the satsang of Bhole Baba on June2, 2024, in Ratibhanpur Mughalgarhi village, Sikandrarau tehsil, Hathras district, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in 121 deaths.

Manoj Kumar Singh takes over as Uttar Pradesh chief secretary

Manoj Kumar Singh, a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh on 30 June 2024. He replaced Durga Shankar Mishra.

Manoj Kumar Singh has discharged important administrative responsibilities, including as the district magistrate of Lalitpur, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Pilibhit, Moradabad and Aligarh and as the divisional commissioner of Moradabad. Singh is considered a prominent face in Adityanath’s team.

Q: Who has been appointed as the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh?

A) Rajendra Kumar Tiwari
B) Prashant Trivedi
C) Durga Shankar Mishra
D) Manoj Kumar Singh

Answer: D) Manoj Kumar Singh
Manoj Kumar Singh, a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh on 30 June 2024

Film City in Greater Noida : YEIDA and Babu Project sign Agreement

The Uttar Pradesh state government signed an agreement on 27 June 2024 to develop a film city in Greater Noida. Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP, owned by film producer Bonnie Kapoor and Ashish Bhootani.

The project has an estimated cost of 1,510 crore rupees. The film city is planned to be completed within the next eight years. The initial phase, expected to be completed in three years, will focus on establishing essential film-related facilities and a film institute.

The film city will offer world-class film production amenities, including studios, open sets, hospitality services, and office spaces. The aim is to position the film city as a premier destination for filmmakers.

Q: Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP signed an agreement to develop a Film City at which location?

A) Faridabad
B) Yamuna Nagar
C) Greater Noida
D) Lucknow

Ans : C) Greater Noida
The Uttar Pradesh state government signed an agreement on 27 June 2024 to develop a film city in Greater Noida. Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP, owned by film producer Bonnie Kapoor and Ashish Bhootani.

New Recruitment Policy in Uttar Pradesh to Ensure Fair Competitive Exams

The Uttar Pradesh government is planning new policies to ensure fair recruitment exams due to alleged irregularities in competitive exams.

Key points of the new policies include:

  1. Appointment of Agencies: Four agencies will conduct the recruitment examinations.
  2. Exam Location Restrictions: Candidates must take exams outside their home board area, with exceptions for disabled individuals and women.
  3. Phased Exams for Large Numbers: Exams with more than four lakh candidates will be conducted in two phases.
  4. OMR Sheet Scanning: Scanning of OMR sheets will be done by the Commission and the Board to prevent result rigging.
  5. Examination Centers: Two categories of examination centers will be established:
  • Category 1: Government Inter Colleges, Medical Colleges, and Engineering Colleges.
  • Category 2: Aided schools.
    Centers will not be set up in schools and colleges without financial support.
  1. Police Exam Controversy: The UP Police Recruitment and Promotion Board canceled the constable recruitment exam due to a leaked question paper, affecting over 48 lakh candidates. Following this, the chairperson of the Board, Renuka Mishra, was sacked and replaced by Rajeev Krishna.
  2. Investigation of Irregularities: An order has been issued to investigate alleged irregularities in the Review Officer/Assistant Review Officer (RO/ARO) exams.

These measures are aimed at restoring the integrity of the recruitment process in the state.

Q: What is the primary reason for the Uttar Pradesh government implementing new policies for recruitment exams in June 2024?

A) To increase the number of candidates
B) To ensure exams are conducted in a free and fair manner
C) To reduce the duration of exams
D) To lower the exam fees

Ans : B) To ensure exams are conducted in a free and fair manner
The Uttar Pradesh Police constable recruitment exam was cancelled due to a leaked question paper, affecting over 48 lakh candidates.

Prem Singh Tamang sworn in as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for a second consecutive term

Prem Singh Tamang, the president of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for a second consecutive term on June 10, 2024. The swearing-in ceremony took place at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, where Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya administered the oath of office and secrecy. 

The SKM secured a landslide victory in the assembly polls, winning 31 out of 32 seats in the assembly. Tamang’s leadership played a crucial role in the party’s success, and he was unanimously elected as the leader of the legislature party during a meeting on June 2.

Q: Who was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for a second consecutive term on June 10, 2024?

A) Pawan Kumar Chamling
B) Prem Singh Tamang
C) Bhaichung Bhutia
D) Hemant Soren

Answer: B) Prem Singh Tamang

The Controversial Demise of Gangster-Politician Mukhtar Ansari

Mukhtar Ansari, a former gangster-turned-politician, passed away on the night of March 28, 2024, at a hospital in Banda, Uttar Pradesh. His death has stirred controversy and raised allegations of foul play.

  • Ansari was a five-time MLA from Mau, Uttar Pradesh.
  • He ventured into crime to establish his gang in the government contract mafia of the state.
  • Ansari faced over 60 pending cases against him.
  • He had been incarcerated in jails in both Uttar Pradesh and Punjab since 2005.
  • Cause of Death: Ansari suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized.
  • His family alleges he was administered slow poison, claiming it happened before his demise, particularly pointing to an incident on March 19 during dinner.
  • District authorities refute these claims, stating he died of cardiac arrest.
  • Chief judicial magistrate’s court at Banda in Uttar Pradesh on Friday ordered a judicial inquiry into the death of gangster-politician Mukhtar Ansari

Q: Gangster-politician Mukhtar Ansari, who recently passed away, was a prominent figure in which state’s politics?

a) Bihar
b) Uttar Pradesh
c) Maharashtra
d) Madhya Pradesh

b) Uttar Pradesh

Deepak Kumar, a senior IAS officer, appointed as the new Home Secretary of Uttar Pradesh

Deepak Kumar, a senior IAS officer, has been appointed as the new Home Secretary of Uttar Pradesh on March 19, 2024.

  1. The appointment of Deepak Kumar was approved by the Election Commission.
  2. Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer, Randeep Rinwa, confirmed Deepak Kumar’s appointment.
  3. Deepak Kumar is currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary of Finance and Basic Education.
  4. Senior IAS officer Sanjay Prasad, who was previously handling the Home Department, is associated with the Chief Minister and also oversees the Information Department.
  5. Uttar Pradesh, which sends the maximum Lok Sabha members (80) is gearing up for the general elections in all seven phases.

Q: Who has been appointed as the new Home Secretary of Uttar Pradesh ?

a) Deepak Kumar
b) Sanjay Prasad
c) Randeep Rinwa
d) Alok Kumar

Answer: a) Deepak Kumar

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

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

Nitish Kumar, JD(U) leader, took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for the ninth time

  1. Nitish Kumar, JD(U) leader, took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for the ninth time on January 28, 2024.
  2. Eight other cabinet ministers, including three from BJP and three from JD(U), also took the oath of office and secrecy.
  3. Governor Rajendra Vishwanat Arlekar administered the oath.
  4. BJP’s Samrat Choudhary, Vijay Kumar Sinha, and Prem Kumar, along with JD(U)’s Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Bijendra Prasad Yadav, and Shravan Kumar, are among the inducted ministers.
  5. Santosh Kumar Suman from Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and one Independent member also joined the cabinet.

Q: Who recently took oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the ninth time?

a. Jitan Ram Manjhi
b. Nitish Kumar
c. Vijay Kumar Choudhary
d. Rajendra Vishwanat Arlekar

Ans : b. Nitish Kumar

Guinness record for simultaneous mass Surya Namaskar at 108 places in Gujarat

  • Gujarat set a Guinness record for simultaneous mass Surya Namaskar at 108 places on the first day of 2024.
  • Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Minister for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghavi attended the state-level event at the Modhera Sun Temple.
  • Over 2500 people participated in the state-level function at the Modhera Sun Temple.
  • The mass Surya Namaskar was performed at 108 places, including 51 historic sites in Gujarat.
  • A month-long Mega Surya Namaskar Competition was organized by the Gujarat State Yog Board and the state government to promote the practice.

Q: Which Indian state set a Guinness record for performing mass Surya Namaskar simultaneously at 108 places on the first day of 2024?

a) Maharashtra
b) Gujarat
c) Rajasthan
d) Karnataka

Ans : b) Gujarat

Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023 at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023 at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun on December 8, 2023.

  • The two-day summit is organized under the theme of “peace to prosperity” and has attracted thousands of investors and delegates from around the world.
  • Notable participants include Union Ministers, Ambassadors from various countries, and leading industrialists.
  • Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the state government’s preparations for the summit, including the introduction of more than 27 new policies and amendments to existing policies.
  • The state government has created a land bank of seven thousand acres to facilitate the establishment of new industries in Uttarakhand.

Q: Where was the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023 held in December 2023?

a. New Delhi
b. Dehradun
c. Mumbai
d. Jaipur

Ans : b. Dehradun

Q. Where is the Forest Research Institute located?

A. Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
B. Dehradun, Uttarakhand
C. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
D. Guwahati, Assam.

Ans : B. Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Revanth Reddy will be the next chief minister of Telangana

Telangana Pradesh Congress President A Revanth Reddy announced as the next Chief Minister of Telangana. Swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Thursday, the 7th December 2023 at LB Stadium Hyderabad.

Fifty-four-year-old Revanth Reddy was credited for the Congress’ thumping victory in the recently-concluded Assembly elections, wherein it secured a clear majority of 64 seats. He was also the party’s poster boy for its campaign.

Q: Who has been announced as the next Chief Minister of Telangana by the Congress party?

a) K C Venugopal
b) Mallikarjun Kharge
c) A Revanth Reddy
d) D.K. Shivakumar

Answer: c) A Revanth Reddy

Home Ministry Declares Nine Meitei Extremist Organizations Unlawful

The Home Ministry has declared nine Meitei extremist organizations operating mainly in Manipur as unlawful associations for a five-year period. The organizations include the Peoples’ Liberation Army and its political wing, the Revolutionary Peoples’ Front (RPF), the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and its armed wing, the Manipur Peoples’ Army (MPA), People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) and its armed wing, Kangleipak Communist Party and its armed wing, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), the Coordination Committee (CorCom), and the Alliance for Socialist Unity Kangleipak (ASUK).

The Home Ministry stated in a notification dated 13 November 2023 that these Meitei extremist organizations have been involved in activities prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India, including attacking and killing security forces, police, and civilians in Manipur. The Centre expressed the opinion that the activities of these organizations are detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, involving acts of intimidation, extortion, and looting of the civilian population for fundraising.

Q.: In which Indian state are these Meitei extremist organizations primarily operating, leading to their declaration as unlawful by the Ministry of Home Affairs?

a. Assam
b. Manipur
c. Nagaland
d. Kerala

Ans : b. Manipur

Guinness World Record by lighting 22.23 lakh diyas at 51 ghats of Ayodhya on Deepotsav

Uttar Pradesh government achieves sixth Guinness World Record by lighting 22.23 lakh diyas at 51 ghats of Ayodhya on Deepotsav on 11 November 2023.

  1. Notable attendees including Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers, cabinet ministers, and ambassadors from 52 countries.
  2. The purpose of organizing the coronation and Deepotsav is to restore the glory of Ayodhya, with 178 development projects worth rupees 30 thousand 500 crores starting in the city, aiming to generate employment opportunities.
  3. The event featured a Shobha Yatra with 18 tableaux at Ram Katha Park showcasing India’s folk culture. Additionally, Chief Minister Adityanath inaugurated a 3D holographic show, projection mapping, and laser show based on Ramayana.

Q.: What achievement did the Uttar Pradesh government attain during Deepotsav in Ayodhya on November 11, 2023?

a) Fifth Guinness World Record
b) Sixth Guinness World Record
c) Tenth Guinness World Record
d) No Guinness World Record

Ans : b) Sixth Guinness World Record

Bihar Assembly passed a unanimous amendment bill to increase the reservation quota in state government jobs

The Bihar Assembly passed a unanimous amendment bill on November 9, 2023, to increase the reservation quota in state government jobs for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Extremely Backward Caste, and other Backward Castes from 50% to 65%.

  1. The decision to increase the reservation quota was prompted by the Caste Based Survey 2022, which revealed a need for adjustments in proportion to the population increase of SCs, STs, EBCs, and Backward Castes.
  2. The new reservation paradigm proposed by the bill allocates 18% for Backward Castes, 25% for Extremely Backward Castes, 20% for Scheduled Castes, and 2% for Scheduled Tribes.
  3. The 10% reservation quota for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) among the general category remains unchanged. The total reservation limit is now effectively 75%, leaving 25% unreserved.
  4. The Bihar Reservation Amendment Bill was introduced by State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed gratitude to the BJP for supporting the bill. The government aims to implement the changes swiftly.
  5. Additionally, the Lower House passed a unanimous Amendment Bill to increase the reservation quota for admission in government educational institutions to 65% for SCs, STs, EBCs, and other BCs, aligning with the reservation pattern in government jobs for these castes.

Q.: What is the percentage increase in the reservation quota for government jobs proposed by the Bihar Assembly Amendment Bill passed on November 9, 2023?

a. 50% to 55%
b. 55% to 60%
c. 50% to 65%
d. 65% to 70%

Ans : c. 50% to 65%

Q.: What was the reason behind the decision to increase the reservation quota in Bihar government jobs ?

a. Economic growth
b. Caste Based Survey 2022
c. Political considerations
d. International pressure

Ans : b. Caste Based Survey 2022

Harjinder Singh Dhami has been re-elected as the President of the SGPC

Harjinder Singh Dhami has been re-elected as the President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in Punjab on November 8, 2023.

  1. The SGPC is the topmost body representing Sikhs.
  2. Dhami won the election with 118 out of 137 votes cast, securing a third consecutive term.
  3. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the President of Shiromani Akali Dal, congratulated Harjinder Singh Dhami on his re-election as SGPC President.

Q.: Who has been re-elected as the President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in Punjab in November 2023?

A) Sukhbir Singh Badal
B) Harjinder Singh Dhami
C) Manpreet Singh Badal
D) Harsimrat Kaur Badal

Ans : B) Harjinder Singh Dhami

Q.: What is the significance of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)?

A) It is the highest governing body for all religious organizations in Punjab.
B) It is the topmost body representing Sikhs.
C) It is responsible for Punjab’s political administration.
D) It is a cultural organization in Punjab.

Ans : B) It is the topmost body representing Sikhs.

Indian women’s hockey team won the Asian Champions Trophy, defeating Japan 4-0

The Indian women’s hockey team won the Asian Champions Trophy, defeating Japan 4-0 in the final on November 5, 2023, in Ranchi.

  1. The goals for India were scored by Sangita Kumari, Neha, Laremsiami, and Vandana Katariya.
  2. India previously won the Asian Champions Trophy in 2016, while Japan had won it in 2013 and 2021.
  3. China secured third place by defeating South Korea 2-1, with goals from Yi Chen and Tiantian Luo for China and Sujin An for South Korea.
  4. Hockey India awarded 3 lakh rupees to each player and 1.50 lakh rupees to support staff in recognition of their performance.
  5. Salima Tete from Jharkhand was named the Player of the Tournament.

MCQs

Q.: Who won the Asian Champions Trophy in women’s hockey in 2023?

a. Japan
b. China
c. India
d. South Korea

Ans : c. India

Q.: In the final, the Indian women’s hockey team defeated which team to win the Asian Champions Trophy 2023?

a. China
b. South Korea
c. Japan
d. Singapore

Ans : c. Japan

Anthurium Festival took place on October 21 and 22, 2023, in Reiek, Mamit District, Mizoram

A two-day-long Anthurium Festival took place on October 21 and 22, 2023, in Reiek, Mamit District, Mizoram. The festival was organized by the Department of Tourism of Mizoram.

The Anthurium Festival serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Mizo people. The Anthurium Festival is a successful tourism promotion venture of the Tourism Department.

Q.: In which Indian state did the Anthurium Festival occur on October 21 and 22, 2023?

a. Mizoram
b. Assam
c. Nagaland
d. Manipur

Ans : a. Mizoram

India’s first solar roof cycling track “Healthway” inaugurated in Hyderabad

India’s first solar roof cycling track, named “Healthway,” was inaugurated in Hyderabad on October 2, 2023. The 23-km long cycling track is located on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) in Hyderabad, situated between the main carriageway and the service road.

  1. The cycling track will be open 24×7, aiming to support and promote the bicycling community in the city.
  2. Track Specifications: The cycling track spans 23 kilometers and includes two stretches – a pink line of 8.5 kilometers and a blue line of 14.5 kilometers, with five different access points. It is a three-lane track, 4.5 meters wide, with one meter of green space on either side.
  3. Facilities: The track offers various amenities such as ample parking space, surveillance cameras, food courts, drinking water facilities, first aid stations, and restrooms.
  4. Solar Panels: A total of 16,000 solar panels were installed on the track to generate 16 megawatts (MW) of power. This power is used to illuminate the track at night and provide protection to cyclists from the sun, rain, and other weather conditions.

MCQ

Q.: What is the name of India’s first solar roof cycling track inaugurated in Hyderabad?

a) SunCycle
b) EcoPedal
c) SolarRide
d) Healthway

Correct Answer: d) Healthway

Bihar government released the findings of its Caste-based Survey

The Bihar government has released the findings of its Caste-based Survey, which was conducted in two phases this year.

  1. The survey report, spanning 101 pages, reveals that the population of Bihar is over 13 crore.
  2. The largest caste group in the state is the Extremely Backward Caste (EBCs), making up 36.01 percent of the state’s population, which is approximately 4.70 crore people.
  3. The Backward Caste (BC) population in Bihar is 27.12 percent, totaling around 3.54 crore individuals.
  4. The Yadavs are identified as the largest group in the state, comprising 14.26 percent of the population.
  5. Scheduled Castes (SC) constitute 19.65 percent of the state’s population, with a population of approximately 2.56 crore.
  6. The general category population accounts for 15.52 percent of the population, totaling 2.02 crore.
  7. The tribal population in Bihar is the smallest, representing 1.68 percent of the state’s population.
  8. The state government has also released data on religion-based population, with Hinduism being the major religion, making up around 82 percent of the state’s demography, equivalent to about 10.72 crore people.
  9. The Muslim population accounts for 17.7 percent, approximately 2.31 crore, and other religions like Christianity and Sikhism are also present in the state.

Q: What is the largest caste group in Bihar according to the Caste-based Survey findings?

a) Scheduled Caste (SC)
b) Backward Caste (BC)
c) Extremely Backward Caste (EBCs)
d) General Caste

Ans : c) Extremely Backward Caste (EBCs)

First Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show in Greater Noida from 21 to 25 September 2023

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the first Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show in Greater Noida on September 21, 2023. The event is being held at the India Expo Mart in Knowledge Park of Greater Noida and will run until September 25, 2023.

  • The trade show aims to provide international exposure and market opportunities for products, specialties, cuisine, and culture of Uttar Pradesh.
  • More than 400 participants from over 60 countries have registered for the event.
  • Over 2000 exhibitors will showcase products across various sectors, including automobiles, handicrafts, healthcare, food processing, pharmaceuticals, dairy, electronics, and e-commerce.
  • The trade show is an initiative to bring together products from Uttar Pradesh for a larger market.
  • It features products such as ODOP (One District One Product) products and GI-Tag products manufactured in Uttar Pradesh.
  • The event facilitates connections between B2B and B2C buyers from India and abroad.
  • It includes conferences, demos, live performances, and awards to facilitate business deals and honor outstanding products.
  • The event offers enterprises in Uttar Pradesh an opportunity to showcase their products, expand their reach, and connect with a wider customer base.
  • Various sectors, including agriculture, defense corridor, e-commerce, education, film, food processing, health & wellness, IT/ITES, MSMEs, renewable energy, sports, tourism & hospitality, toy association, warehouse & logistics, and women entrepreneurs, are expected to be represented at the event.

Q.: What is the primary purpose of Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) held in Greater Noida from 21 to 25 September 2023?

a) To promote local tourism
b) To showcase international products
c) To provide market opportunities for Uttar Pradesh products
d) To facilitate cultural exchanges

Ans : c) To provide market opportunities for Uttar Pradesh products

Confirmed cases of Nipah Virus (NiV) found in Kerala

  1. In Kerala, three individuals have tested positive for the Nipah virus, confirmed by the National Institute of Virology, Pune on 12 September 2023.
  2. Among the confirmed cases, a 40-year-old man has died, and two others are undergoing treatment in Kozhikode. One of the patients is a critically ill 9-year-old boy who is on life support.
  3. It is suspected that a person who died last month due to comorbid conditions may have also been positive for the Nipah virus, as they were close relatives of those currently under treatment.
  4. Three central teams, including a mobile team from the National Institute of Virology (NIV), are scheduled to arrive in Kerala to assess the situation.
  5. The State Animal Husbandry and Forest Departments will conduct a survey of bat habitats as part of the response.

Nipah virus (NiV)

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease with initial symptoms including fever, headache, and respiratory issues. It can spread through infected animals, contaminated food, or person-to-person contact. First identified in Malaysia in 1999, it has caused outbreaks in Bangladesh and India.

There’s no specific treatment or vaccine, and supportive care is the main approach. The World Health Organization considers it a priority for research and development due to its potential for outbreaks.

Q.: Which of the following animal species is a natural reservoir for Nipah virus (NiV)?
A. Pigs
B. Bats
C. Dogs
D. Cows 

Answer: B. Bats

Country’s first solar city inaugurated in Sanchi of Madhya Pradesh

Country’s first solar city, Sanch, Madhya Pradesh has been inaugurated by state Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on 6 September 2023.

  1. Sanchi Solar City is expected to annually reduce approximately 13,747 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to more than 2 lakh adult trees. It will also result in an annual saving of more than 7 crore rupees in energy-related expenses for the government and citizens.
  2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a target to develop a solar city in every state of India by 2070, aligning with the national goal for sustainable energy.
  3. Efforts have been made to attract tourism to Sanchi by reducing environmental pollution through the implementation of eco-friendly facilities.
  4. The city has introduced battery-operated e-rickshaws and garbage vehicles, contributing to eco-friendly transportation. Additionally, e-vehicle charging stations have been installed to promote electric vehicle usage.

Q.: What is the name of the country’s first solar city inaugurated in Madhya Pradesh?

a) Indore solar gram
b) Bhopal, Sun city
c) Gwalior, Sun roof
d) Sanchi Solar City

Ans : d) Sanchi Solar City

Gyanvapi mosque case : Varanasi Court Orders Scientific Survey

On 21 July 2023, Varanasi District Judge court has issued an order for a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque, which is located near the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varansi, Uttar Pradesh. However, the survey will not include the ‘wazukhana’ area, which is used by Muslims.

Gyanvapi mosque : Dispute

The Gyanvapi mosque case in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, revolves around a legal dispute concerning the ownership of the land where the mosque is situated. It originated in 1991 when local priests filed a suit in the Varanasi Civil Court to gain permission for worship in the Gyanvapi Mosque Complex. They claimed that the mosque was constructed on the site of the demolished portion of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th Century.

Q.: What is the Gyanvapi mosque case about in Varanasi ?

A) A dispute over the ownership of the Gyanvapi Mosque
B) A legal battle regarding the construction of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
C) A controversy over the scientific survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque
D) A depute about Ganga corridor in Varanasi

Answer: A) A dispute over the ownership of the Gyanvapi Mosque

Ajit Pawar Joins Shiv Sena-BJP Government as Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra and became the Deputy Chief Minister on 2nd July 2023.

  • The state will now have two Deputy Chief Ministers, with the other being BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis.
  • Eight other NCP leaders also took oath as ministers along with Ajit Pawar.
  • Ajit Pawar resigned as Leader of the Opposition after a meeting with NCP MLAs.
  • Ajit Pawar expressed dissatisfaction after being denied the opportunity to work as the state unit chief of NCP.
  • Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that the government is focused on the development of the state and highlighted Ajit Pawar’s belief in development.
  • NCP Chief Sharad Pawar mentioned that party MLAs and senior leaders will discuss possible actions against the rebel leaders.
  • Jitendra Awhad was appointed as the new Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly.

Q: Who recently joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra as the Deputy Chief Minister?
a) Devendra Fadnavis
b) Sharad Pawar
c) Ajit Pawar
d) Eknath Shinde

Answer: c) Ajit Pawar

US chip giant Micron will set up a semiconductor assembly and testing plant in Gujarat with a total investment of $2.75 billion.

  • US chip maker Micron will invest $825 million to build a chip assembly and testing facility in Gujarat. The combined investment by Macron and the Central and Gujarat governments will be $2.75 billion.
  • Phased construction of the new assembly and test facility in Gujarat is expected to begin this year.
  • Phase 1, which will include five million square feet of planned cleanroom space, will become operational in late 2024, and Micron will gradually increase capacity over time in line with global demand trends.
  • The move will create 5,000 new direct Micron jobs and 15,000 community jobs over the next several years. Micron will receive 50% financial assistance from the Government of India towards the total project cost and 20% incentive from the Government of Gujarat towards the total project cost.

Qns : Which company is planning to invest in a chip assembly and testing facility in Gujarat?
(A) Intel
(B) Samsung
(C) Micron
(D) TSMC
Ans : (C) Micron

Ethnic Clash in Manipur : Meitei-Tribal Violence in 2023

  • An ethnic clash erupted on May, 2023, in Manipur, India, between the Meitei people and tribal communities like the Kuki and Zo peoples.
  • The Meitei people have been demanding Scheduled Tribe status, which would grant them privileges similar to tribal communities under the Indian Constitution.
  • The tribal communities opposed this demand, leading to clashes and violence.
  • At least 98 people have been killed, and more than 300 others were injured in the violence.
  • The Indian Army deployed close to 10,000 troops and paramilitary forces to restore law and order.
  • Internet services in the state were suspended for five days, and “shoot on sight” orders were given to the troops in extreme cases.
  • A retired Chief Justice-led panel will investigate the violence, and a peace committee will be established under the Governor and security advisor Kuldeep Singh.
  • The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will probe six cases related to conspiracy in the violence.
  • Manipur is a state in northeast India with the Meitei people dominating the Imphal Valley, while the surrounding hills are inhabited by tribal communities like Kukis and Nagas.
  • The Meitei people have limited settlement rights in the hilly regions, while tribal populations can settle in the valley.
  • The Meiteis hold political power in the Manipur Legislative Assembly, leading to complaints from tribal groups about unequal government spending.
  • The violence in 2023 was triggered by efforts to remove illegal immigrants and the withdrawal of Suspension of Operation agreements with Kuki militant groups.
  • The violence resulted in the deployment of military forces, displacement of thousands of people, and destruction of property.
  • Recurrent violence occurred, with a fresh outbreak on June 14 resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.

Question : What is the primary cause of the conflict in Manipur?
a) Political rivalry
b) Religious differences
c) Ethnic clashes between Meitei and tribal communities
d) Economic disparities

Ans : c) Ethnic clashes between Meitei and tribal communities

Government e-Marketplace will organize buyer-seller workshops in all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh.

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) will organize buyer-seller workshops in all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh from 12th June 2023. The workshop will continue till 31 August 2023.

About GeM :

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is the Public Procurement Portal for procurement of goods and services for all Central Government and State Government Ministries, Departments, Public Sector Units (PSUs) and affiliated. GeM endeavours to make public procurement process transparent, efficient and inclusive. A new Rule No. 149 in the General Financial Rules, 2017 has been issued by the Ministry of Finance authorizing and mandating purchases through GeM by government users.

The platform is owned by GeM SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle), a 100% government-owned, non-profit company under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. The present Chief Executive Officer of Government e-Marketplace is Mr. Prashant Kumar Singh, a 1993 batch IAS officer of Manipur Cadre.

Purpose & Date of commencement :

Government e Marketplace (or e-Marketplace) (GeM) is an online platform for public procurement in India. The initiative was launched on August 9, 2016 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India with the objective of creating an open and transparent procurement platform for government buyers.

Qns : What is GeM?
(A) A platform for online shopping
(B) An online platform for the procurement of goods and services
(C) A social media platform for government officials
(D) A financial management system for government departments
Ans : (B) An online platform for the procurement of goods and services

Scroll to Top