Daily Current Affairs September 18
Table of Contents
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September 18 | Daily Current Affairs 2024
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs September 18
1. When is World Bamboo Day celebrated globally?
A) September 10
B) September 15
C) September 18
D) September 20
E) September 25
Answer: C) September 18
Event and Location:
- Event: World Bamboo Day 2024
- Date: September 18
- Location: Global celebration (initiated in Bangkok, Thailand)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Purpose: To raise awareness of bamboo’s ecological and economic significance.
- Objectives:
- Promote the sustainable use and conservation of bamboo.
- Highlight bamboo’s medicinal and practical uses in daily life.
- Foster community and economic development through bamboo cultivation.
- Protect bamboo for its environmental benefits and industrial applications.
Important Terms Explained:
- World Bamboo Organisation (WBO):
- A global organization aimed at promoting bamboo as a sustainable resource.
- Sustainable Use:
- Ensures bamboo is harvested and cultivated in a way that preserves it for future generations.
Static GK Information:
World Bamboo Organisation (WBO):
- Founded Year: 1998
- Founder: Kamesh Salam
- Headquarters: Antwerp, Belgium
- Mandate: To promote bamboo’s sustainable use globally.
Tabular Summary:
Event | World Bamboo Day 2024 |
Date | September 18, 2024 |
Location | Global (Initiated in Bangkok, Thailand) |
Established | 2009, during the 8th World Bamboo Congress |
Significance | Raising awareness of bamboo’s ecological and economic benefits |
Organizer | World Bamboo Organisation (WBO) |
Sports – Daily Current Affairs September 18
2. Who scored the winning goal for India in the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 final?
A) Harmanpreet Singh
B) Jugraj Singh
C) Yang Jihun
D) Kim Jaehan
E) Wang Caiyu
Answer: B) Jugraj Singh
Event and Location:
- Event: Asian Champions Trophy 2024 Final
- Location: Moqi, China
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- India’s Men’s Hockey Team clinched their fifth title in the Asian Champions Trophy by defeating China 1-0 in the final.
- The winning goal was scored by Jugraj Singh with an assist from Harmanpreet Singh.
- Objectives:
- Maintain dominance in Asian hockey and defend the Asian Champions Trophy title.
- Overcome China’s strong defensive performance, particularly in the first half, to secure the victory.
Important Terms Explained:
- Asian Champions Trophy:
- An annual hockey tournament featuring top men’s teams from Asia, first held in 2011.
- India has now won the tournament five times, more than any other nation.
- Player of the Tournament:
- Awarded to Harmanpreet Singh for his outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
Static GK Information:
India’s Men’s Hockey Team:
- Coach: Craig Fulton
- Captain: Harmanpreet Singh
- Governing Body: Hockey India
Asian Hockey Federation:
- Founded: 1958
- Headquarters: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- President: Fumio Ogura
Tabular Summary:
Event | Asian Champions Trophy 2024 Final |
Location | Moqi, China |
Finalists | India vs China |
Winner | India |
Winning Goal Scorer | Jugraj Singh |
Top Player | Harmanpreet Singh (Player of the Tournament) |
Top Goal Scorer of the Tournament | Yang Jihun (Korea) – 9 Goals |
Best Goalkeeper | Wang Caiyu (China) |
Third Place Winner | Pakistan (Defeated South Korea 5-2) |
Most Titles | India – 5 Titles |
3. Which cricket governing body has introduced equal prize money for men’s and women’s World Cups starting from 2024?
A) BCCI
B) ECB
C) ICC
D) CA
E) CSA
Answer: C) ICC
Event and Location:
- Event: ICC’s decision to introduce equal prize money for men’s and women’s World Cups
- Location: The decision will take effect starting with the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced equal prize money for men’s and women’s World Cup events starting from the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.
- The prize money for the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup winner has been increased to $2.34 million, a 134% rise from $1 million in 2023.
- Objectives:
- Promote gender equality in cricket by ensuring equal financial rewards for male and female cricketers.
- Align with the ICC’s long-term strategy to accelerate the growth of women’s cricket by 2032.
- Achieve prize money equity seven years ahead of the 2030 target.
Important Terms Explained:
- ICC (International Cricket Council):
- The global governing body for international cricket responsible for organizing major tournaments like the Cricket World Cup and T20 World Cup.
- Equal Prize Money:
- Refers to both men’s and women’s teams receiving the same amount of prize money for similar finishing positions and match wins at comparable ICC events.
Static GK Information:
ICC (International Cricket Council):
- Founded: 1909
- Headquarters: Dubai, UAE
- Chairman: Greg Barclay
- CEO: Geoff Allardice
BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India):
- Founded: 1928
- President: Roger Binny
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Tabular Summary:
Event | ICC Introduces Equal Prize Money for Men’s and Women’s World Cups |
Starting Year | 2024 |
First Event with Equal Prize | Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in UAE |
Winning Prize (Women’s T20 WC) | $2.34 million (134% increase) |
Runner-up Prize (Women’s T20 WC) | $1.17 million (More than double from 2023) |
Prize Money Equity Target | Achieved 7 years ahead of schedule (2030) |
Governance | ICC (International Cricket Council) |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs September 18
4. How much have Banks and Financial Institutions pledged to invest in Renewable Energy projects by 2030?
A) Rs 10 trillion
B) Rs 15 trillion
C) Rs 24.8 trillion
D) Rs 32.45 trillion
E) Rs 50 trillion
Answer: D) Rs 32.45 trillion
Event and Location:
- Event: 4th RE-Invest Summit
- Location: India, hosted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- India aims to achieve 500 gigawatts (Gw) of renewable energy (RE) capacity by 2030.
- Banks and Financial Institutions have pledged Rs 32.45 trillion to support RE projects.
- Objectives:
- Develop 570 Gw of RE, exceeding the 500 Gw target.
- Promote solar, wind, and green energy manufacturing in India.
- Increase investments in RE manufacturing with initiatives like the Shapath Patra to attract green energy investments.
Important Terms Explained:
- Renewable Energy (RE):
- Energy derived from natural resources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, which are replenished naturally.
- Shapath Patra:
- An initiative to attract green energy investments, particularly in solar and wind energy manufacturing.
- RE-Invest Summit:
- A platform for investors, RE developers, and government agencies to discuss and commit to India’s renewable energy goals.
Static GK Information:
Reliance Industries (RIL):
- Founded: 1973
- Founder: Dhirubhai Ambani
- Chairman: Mukesh Ambani
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
NTPC:
- Founded: 1975
- Chairman and MD: Gurdeep Singh
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
State Bank of India (SBI):
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Chairman: Dinesh Kumar Khara
- Tagline: The Banker to Every Indian
Power Finance Corporation (PFC):
- Founded: 1986
- Chairman and MD: Parminder Chopra
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Tabular Summary:
Event | 4th RE-Invest Summit |
Location | India, hosted by MNRE and CII |
Total Financial Commitment | Rs 32.45 trillion |
Targeted RE Capacity | 500 Gw by 2030, with commitments reaching 570 Gw |
Top Contributors | Reliance Industries (100 Gw), NTPC (41.3 Gw), ReNew (40 Gw) |
Key Financial Institutions | REC (Rs 6 trillion), IREDA (Rs 5 trillion), PFC (Rs 3 trillion), SBI (Rs 5 trillion) |
State Participation | Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Telangana |
Significance | Part of India’s goal to achieve 500 Gw RE by 2030 |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs September 18
5. From which date did the government scrap the windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil?
A) September 1
B) September 10
C) September 18
D) September 25
E) September 30
Answer: C) September 18
Event and Location:
- Event: Removal of the windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Indian government scrapped the windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil with effect from September 18, 2023.
- This tax was earlier imposed to counter unexpected profits in the oil sector due to fluctuating global prices.
- Objectives:
- Redistribute the unexpected gains of companies benefitting from high commodity prices.
- Fund social welfare schemes and act as a supplementary revenue stream for the government.
- Narrow India’s trade deficit by imposing taxes on profits resulting from external events like war or global shortages.
Important Terms Explained:
- Windfall Tax:
- A tax imposed on above-average profits made by companies during periods of economic conditions that lead to higher revenue without the company’s direct influence.
- Common in industries like oil, gas, and mining, where profits spike due to external events such as wars or commodity shortages.
- Purpose of Windfall Tax:
- Redistribute profits that result from global events affecting prices, benefiting producers at the expense of consumers.
- Support social welfare schemes and help the government increase revenue.
Static GK Information:
Ministry of Finance, India:
- Minister: Nirmala Sitharaman
- Founded: 1946
- Headquarters: North Block, New Delhi
Oil and Gas Industry in India:
- Major Companies: ONGC, Indian Oil, Reliance Industries
- Regulatory Body: Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH)
- Major Products: Crude oil, Natural Gas
Tabular Summary:
Event | Windfall Tax on Crude Petroleum Scrapped |
Effective Date | September 18, 2023 |
Previous Tax | Windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil |
Reason for Introduction | Imposed on unexpected profits made by oil companies due to high global prices |
Purpose of Tax | Redistribute gains, fund social schemes, and narrow trade deficit |
Industry Affected | Oil, Gas, and Mining |
Ministry Involved | Ministry of Finance |
6. By how much have advance tax collections risen in FY25, according to government data released in September 2024?
A) 10%
B) 15%
C) 22%
D) 30%
E) 35%
Answer: C) 22%
Event and Location:
- Event: Advance tax collections increase in FY25
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- Advance tax collections for FY25 rose by 22% between April 1 and September 17, 2024, contributing to over 45% of the Budget Estimate (BE) for the fiscal year.
- Objectives:
- The government is optimistic about meeting its tax collection targets based on the current advance tax collections.
- Advance tax payments are made by individuals and companies to the Income Tax Department to prepay taxes in installments, reducing the burden at the end of the financial year.
Important Terms Explained:
- Advance Tax:
- Advance tax is paid by taxpayers in advance, rather than waiting for the end of the financial year. It is paid in installments during the financial year, based on the estimated income.
- Budget Estimate (BE):
- Budget Estimate refers to the projected amount of revenue and expenditure for the financial year, as announced in the Union Budget.
Static GK Information:
Income Tax Department, India:
- Founded: 1922
- Regulatory Body: Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Ministry of Finance, India:
- Minister: Nirmala Sitharaman
- Founded: 1946
- Headquarters: North Block, New Delhi
Tabular Summary:
Event | Advance Tax Collections in FY25 Rise by 22% |
Advance Tax Collection | Up by 22% in FY25 (April 1 to September 17, 2024) |
Percentage of Budget Estimate | Over 45% of the Budget Estimate |
Government’s Target | Meeting tax collection goals based on rising advance tax collections |
Collected By | Income Tax Department, India |
Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs September 18
7. When is the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) planned to be launched?
A) 2025
B) 2026
C) 2027
D) 2028
E) 2030
Answer: D) 2028
Event and Location:
- Event: Cabinet approval for building the first unit of Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the building of the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) by 2028 as part of the extended Gaganyaan Programme.
- The Gaganyaan Programme has been revised to include the development of BAS and precursor missions, increasing the total program funding to ₹20,193 crore.
- Objectives:
- Develop and demonstrate technologies for long-duration human space missions in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Enable microgravity-based scientific research and technology development through BAS.
- Create employment opportunities in high-tech space sectors, boosting industrial participation and economic growth in space exploration.
- Lay the foundation for an Indian Crewed Lunar Mission by 2040 and operationalize BAS by 2035.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS):
- India’s first space station, to be launched in 2028, aiming to support microgravity-based research, scientific experiments, and space exploration.
- Gaganyaan Programme:
- India’s human spaceflight mission, approved in 2018, focusing on sending astronauts to Low Earth Orbit and developing the technology for future human space missions.
Static GK Information:
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):
- Founded: 1969
- Chairman: S. Somanath
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Ministry of Science and Technology, India:
- Minister: Dr. Jitendra Singh
- Founded: 1971
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Tabular Summary:
Event | Approval for Building Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) |
First Module Launch | 2028 |
Revised Gaganyaan Programme | Includes BAS development and eight missions by 2028 |
Total Funding | ₹20,193 crore |
BAS Goals | Microgravity research, technology development, space exploration |
Key Milestones | BAS operational by 2035, Indian Crewed Lunar Mission by 2040 |
Primary Stakeholder | ISRO, in collaboration with Industry, Academia, and National Agencies |
Defence – Daily Current Affairs September 18
8. Which organization signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army to enhance rescue operations in mountainous terrains?
A) National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
B) Himalayan Rescue Team (HRT)
C) Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR)
D) Border Security Force (BSF)
E) Indian Mountaineering Federation (IMF)
Answer: C) Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR)
Event and Location:
- Event: Indian Army signs MoU with Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR)
- Location: Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), Delhi Cantt
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Indian Army and Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance mountain rescue operations and survival training.
- TMR will collaborate with the Indian Army to conduct customized training programs for Army instructors, focusing on avalanche rescue and survival skills.
- Objectives:
- Improve the Indian Army’s ability to execute rescue operations in mountainous terrains.
- Leverage TMR’s expertise to develop rescue training programs for the Army in high-altitude environments.
- Build on the existing agreements with Northern, Eastern, and Central Commands to enhance overall rescue and survival capabilities.
Important Terms Explained:
- Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR):
- A specialized mountain rescue organization with 15 teams deployed in various regions of India, offering avalanche rescue and survival training support to the Indian Army.
- Avalanche Rescue:
- The process of rescuing individuals trapped or buried under snow due to avalanches in mountainous regions. These operations are critical in high-altitude areas where avalanches are frequent.
Static GK Information:
Indian Army:
- Founded: 1895
- Chief of Army Staff (COAS): General Upendra Dwivedi
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR):
- Founded By: Hemant Sachdev
- Expertise: Specialized in mountain rescue operations and avalanche survival training
Tabular Summary:
Event | Indian Army Signs MoU with Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR) |
Location | Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), Delhi Cantt |
MoU Signed By | Maj Gen Manish Luthra (Indian Army), Mr. Hemant Sachdev (TMR) |
Objective | Enhance avalanche rescue and survival operations in mountainous terrains |
Key Focus | Customized training programs for Army instructors in mountain rescue operations |
Existing Agreements | Initial agreement with Northern Command (2016), expanded to Eastern and Central Commands in 2021 and 2024 |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs September 18
9. During which event did India and the US pledge to deepen their cooperation in the energy sector?
A) India Energy Week
B) GasTech 2024
C) International Energy Forum
D) US-India Energy Summit
E) COP28
Answer: B) GasTech 2024
Event and Location:
- Event: GasTech 2024
- Location: Houston, USA
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- India and the US have committed to expanding bilateral cooperation across the energy value chain, focusing on both conventional and renewable energy sectors.
- The meeting took place during GasTech 2024, involving Indian Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and US Assistant Secretary Geoffrey Pyatt.
- Objectives:
- Promote a just and orderly energy transition.
- Strengthen collaboration between Indian and US institutions and companies in energy infrastructure and technology.
- Expand discussions on clean energy innovations, including green hydrogen, biofuels, and carbon capture.
Important Terms Explained:
- GasTech 2024:
- A global event focusing on natural gas, LNG, and energy technologies, attracting participants from industries and governments worldwide.
- Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP):
- A bilateral initiative between India and the US, aimed at fostering clean energy innovation, enhancing energy security, and supporting the clean energy transition.
Static GK Information:
India:
- Capital: New Delhi
- Currency: Indian Rupee
- President: Droupadi Murmu
- Prime Minister: Narendra Modi
United States:
- Capital: Washington, D.C.
- Currency: US Dollar
- President: Joe Biden
- Secretary of State: Antony Blinken
Tabular Summary:
Event | India-US Energy Cooperation Discussion at GasTech 2024 |
Location | Houston, USA |
Date | 2024 |
Key Participants | Indian Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, US Assistant Secretary Geoffrey Pyatt |
Focus Areas | Expanding collaboration in conventional and renewable energy sectors |
Key Initiatives | Clean energy transition, technological innovations, partnerships in green hydrogen, biofuels |
Significance | Strengthening bilateral cooperation for a just and orderly energy transition |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs September 18
10. Who was the Chief Guest at the national launch of the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign?
A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
B) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
C) President Droupadi Murmu
D) Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri
E) Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot
Answer: B) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign
- Location: Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- Launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) as part of the 10th anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission.
- Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar served as the Chief Guest at the event in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.
- Objectives:
- Mark the 10th anniversary of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, launched in 2014.
- Focus on citizen engagement under the theme “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata”.
- Promote cleanliness, sanitation, and open defecation-free rural areas.
Important Terms Explained:
- Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):
- A nationwide campaign launched in 2014 aimed at eliminating open defecation and improving overall cleanliness in rural and urban areas.
- Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign:
- A campaign aligned with the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, promoting collective action and public participation.
- Launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and MoHUA.
Static GK Information:
Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):
- Launched: 2014
- Launched By: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Objective: Cleanliness, sanitation, and eliminating open defecation
Ministry of Jal Shakti:
- Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA):
- Minister: Hardeep Singh Puri
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Rajasthan:
- Capital: Jaipur
- CM: Ashok Gehlot
- Governor: Kalraj Mishra
Tabular Summary:
Event | Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign Launch |
Location | Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan |
Date | 2024 |
Chief Guest | Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar |
Theme | Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata |
Organizing Ministries | Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) |
Focus Areas | Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs), Public Participation, Health Check-ups for Sanitation Workers |
Significance | Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan |
11. Which portal has the Indian government directed platform aggregators to register their gig workers on?
A) DigiLocker
B) Udyam Portal
C) e-Shram Portal
D) NCS Portal
E) GSTN Portal
Answer: C) e-Shram Portal
Event and Location:
- Event: Indian government’s directive to platform aggregators to register gig workers on the e-Shram Portal
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Indian government has instructed platform aggregators to register their gig workers on the e-Shram portal.
- This is part of a broader initiative to ensure that gig and unorganised workers gain access to social security benefits.
- Objectives:
- The e-Shram portal aims to create a nationwide database of unorganised workers to provide them with access to social welfare schemes.
- Each registered worker receives a Universal Account Number (UAN) for easier access to benefits.
- Aggregators are responsible for updating worker details, employment status, and reporting worker exits.
Important Terms Explained:
- e-Shram Portal:
- A portal developed by the Ministry of Labour and Employment to create a national database of unorganised workers, providing them access to social welfare schemes.
- Platform Aggregators:
- Companies that connect gig workers with customers via digital platforms, such as food delivery and ride-hailing services.
- Gig Workers:
- Platform workers who use digital platforms to offer services, and non-platform workers who are casual wage workers without platform dependence.
Static GK Information:
Ministry of Labour and Employment, India:
- Minister: Mansukh Mandaviya
- Founded: 1946
- Headquarters: Shram Shakti Bhawan, New Delhi
NITI Aayog:
- Abbreviation: National Institution for Transforming India
- Founded: 2015
- Chairperson: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- CEO: BVR Subrahmanyam
Tabular Summary:
Event | Registration of Gig Workers on e-Shram Portal |
Portal Name | e-Shram Portal |
Launch Year | 2021 |
Targeted Workers | Gig workers and unorganised sector workers |
Main Objective | Provide social security benefits through a comprehensive national database |
Aggregator Responsibility | Register workers, update data, report worker exits |
Toll-Free Helpline | 14434 |
Gig Workforce Growth | Expected to grow to 2.35 crore by 2029-30, 6.7% of non-agricultural workforce |
Minister Involved | Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Labour and Employment Minister |
12. What is the newly approved biotechnology scheme by the Union Cabinet, designed to foster bio-entrepreneurship and innovation?
A) Bio-Innovation
B) Bio-RIDE
C) Bio-Start
D) Bio-Ecosystem
E) Bio-Boost
Answer: B) Bio-RIDE
Event and Location:
- Event: Union Cabinet’s approval of the Bio-RIDE scheme
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Bio-RIDE scheme under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
- The scheme will be implemented with a proposed outlay of Rs. 9197 crore during the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).
- Objectives:
- Foster Innovation: Promote cutting-edge research in areas like synthetic biology, bioenergy, and biopharmaceuticals.
- Promote Bio-Entrepreneurship: Provide seed funding, incubation support, and mentorship to bio-entrepreneurs.
- Encourage Sustainable Biomanufacturing: Align with India’s green goals through environmentally sustainable practices in biomanufacturing.
- Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strengthen ties between academic institutions, research organizations, and industry to commercialize bio-based products.
- Support Human Resources: Provide holistic development for students, researchers, and scientists in biotechnology.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bio-RIDE:
- Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development is a scheme aimed at enhancing research, promoting biomanufacturing, and supporting entrepreneurship in the biotechnology sector.
- Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry:
- A component of the Bio-RIDE scheme, focusing on the development of bio-based products that support India’s circular bioeconomy and green initiatives.
Static GK Information:
Department of Biotechnology (DBT):
- Ministry: Ministry of Science and Technology
- Founded: 1986
- Secretary: Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Tabular Summary:
Event | Approval of Bio-RIDE Scheme |
Scheme Name | Bio-RIDE (Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development) |
Approval Date | September 18, 2024 |
Proposed Outlay | Rs. 9197 crore |
Implementation Period | 2021-22 to 2025-26 (15th Finance Commission period) |
Key Components | Biotechnology R&D, Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development, Biomanufacturing & Biofoundry |
Primary Goals | Foster bio-entrepreneurship, promote sustainable biomanufacturing, advance biotechnology |
Key Ministry | Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology |
13. What is the total outlay of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan approved by the Union Cabinet?
A) Rs. 79,156 crore
B) Rs. 50,000 crore
C) Rs. 65,000 crore
D) Rs. 60,000 crore
E) Rs. 70,000 crore
Answer: A) Rs. 79,156 crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Union Cabinet’s approval of Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan with a total outlay of Rs. 79,156 crore (Central Share: Rs. 56,333 crore, State Share: Rs. 22,823 crore).
- This scheme will cover 63,000 tribal-majority villages and tribal villages in Aspirational Districts, benefiting over 5 crore tribal people.
- Objectives:
- Saturation of social infrastructure in tribal-majority villages, ensuring access to housing, clean water, electricity, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
- Promote economic empowerment through skill development, entrepreneurship, and agriculture support for tribal communities.
- Support tribal education, increase Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), and improve health services through mobile medical units.
- Develop tribal home stays, sustainable livelihoods for forest rights holders, and support for tribal product marketing.
Important Terms Explained:
- Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA):
- A scheme focused on holistic development of tribal-majority villages through convergence of multiple government schemes, improving the socio-economic condition of tribal communities.
- Saturation Coverage:
- Ensures all eligible households in target villages receive benefits from various government schemes related to housing, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Static GK Information:
Ministry of Tribal Affairs, India:
- Minister: Arjun Munda
- Founded: 1999
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Rajasthan:
- Capital: Jaipur
- CM: Ashok Gehlot
- Governor: Kalraj Mishra
Tabular Summary:
Event | Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan Approval |
Approved By | Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
Total Outlay | Rs. 79,156 crore |
Central Share | Rs. 56,333 crore |
State Share | Rs. 22,823 crore |
Target | Saturation of 63,000 tribal-majority villages across 549 districts and 2,740 blocks |
Beneficiaries | Over 5 crore tribal people |
Key Focus Areas | Housing, healthcare, education, skill development, and sustainable livelihoods |
Implementing Ministries | 17 ministries, including Ministry of Tribal Affairs |
14. What is the total financial outlay for the continuation of schemes under Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)?
A) Rs. 25,000 crore
B) Rs. 30,000 crore
C) Rs. 35,000 crore
D) Rs. 40,000 crore
E) Rs. 45,000 crore
Answer: C) Rs. 35,000 crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Union Cabinet’s approval for the continuation of PM-AASHA schemes
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of PM-AASHA schemes with a total financial outlay of Rs. 35,000 crore during the 15th Finance Commission cycle (up to 2025-26).
- PM-AASHA integrates the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Stabilization Fund (PSF), Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS), and Market Intervention Scheme (MIS).
- Objectives:
- Provide remunerative prices to farmers for their produce, preventing distress sales.
- Control price volatility of essential commodities for consumers, ensuring availability at affordable prices.
- Encourage cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and copra, contributing to self-sufficiency and reducing import dependency.
- Enhance buffer stock of pulses and onions to manage price volatility and prevent hoarding.
- Support farmers growing perishable crops like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes (TOP) by covering transportation and storage costs.
Important Terms Explained:
- PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan):
- A comprehensive scheme aimed at providing price protection to farmers through mechanisms like Price Support Scheme (PSS) and Price Stabilization Fund (PSF).
- Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS):
- A scheme that compensates farmers for the difference between the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the market price of their crops, covering 40% of state production for oilseeds.
Static GK Information:
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare:
- Minister: Narendra Singh Tomar
- Founded: 1947
- Headquarters: New Delhi
National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED):
- Founded: 1958
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Chairman: Bijender Singh
Tabular Summary:
Event | Cabinet Approves Continuation of PM-AASHA Schemes |
Total Outlay | Rs. 35,000 crore |
Implementation Period | Till 2025-26 (15th Finance Commission Cycle) |
Key Components | Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Stabilization Fund (PSF), Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS), Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) |
Targeted Crops | Pulses, oilseeds, copra, tomatoes, onions, potatoes (TOP crops) |
Objective | Provide remunerative prices to farmers, control price volatility of essential commodities |
Buffer Stock | Maintain strategic buffer of pulses and onions |
15. Who launched the NPS Vatsalya scheme, a pension scheme for minors, in New Delhi?
A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
B) Union Minister Piyush Goyal
C) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
D) Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary
E) Chairperson of PFRDA, Deepak Mohanty
Answer: C) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of the NPS Vatsalya scheme
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates:
- NPS Vatsalya, launched by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is a pension scheme for minors, allowing early financial planning and retirement savings.
- The scheme aims to encourage long-term savings and promote intergenerational equity by providing pension benefits to young subscribers.
- Objectives:
- Secure the financial future of minors through early savings.
- Provide a platform for pension contributions and ensure access to social security for all citizens.
- Allow minors to accumulate large wealth through the power of compounding.
- Once minors reach the age of majority, their NPS Vatsalya accounts will be converted seamlessly into a regular NPS account.
Important Terms Explained:
- NPS Vatsalya:
- A pension scheme designed for minors under the National Pension System (NPS), launched to inculcate the habit of early savings and ensure financial security.
- PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number):
- A unique account number provided to NPS subscribers, including those in the NPS Vatsalya scheme, to track their pension contributions.
Static GK Information:
PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority):
- Founded: 2003
- Chairman: Deepak Mohanty
- Headquarters: New Delhi
National Pension System (NPS):
- Launched: 2004
- Regulated By: PFRDA
- Objective: To provide pension benefits to citizens of India
Tabular Summary:
Event | Launch of NPS Vatsalya – Pension Scheme for Minors |
Launched By | Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman |
Location | New Delhi, India |
Eligibility | All minor citizens below 18 years of age |
Minimum Contribution | Rs 1,000 per annum |
Investment Choices | Government securities, corporate debt, and equity |
Key Benefit | Conversion to a regular NPS account upon reaching the age of majority |
Regulated By | PFRDA |
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