Daily Current Affairs October 29

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October 29 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs October 29

1. What is the theme of the International Day of Care and Support in 2024?
A) Empowering Women in Care Roles
B) Acknowledging Unpaid Care Work
C) Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide
D) Promoting Fair Wages for Care Workers
E) Gender Equality in Caregiving
Answer: C) Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide

Event and Location:

• Event: International Day of Care and Support
• Location: Globally observed by UN member states and various organizations
• Date: Annually on October 29; in 2024, celebrated on October 29
• Theme for 2024: “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide”

Mandates and Objectives:

• Recognition and Value of Care Work:
  • Honors both paid and unpaid caregivers as essential contributors to society and economic growth.
• Reducing and Redistributing Unpaid Care Work:
  • Advocates for public services (e.g., childcare, eldercare) to support unpaid caregivers and promote gender equity in care responsibilities.
• Fighting Gender Stereotypes and Occupational Segregation:
  • Works to eliminate gender biases and barriers that limit women and minorities in care roles, often relegated to lower-paid positions.
• Facilitating Formalization and Decent Work:
  • Supports the transition of informal care jobs into formal sectors, allowing caregivers access to benefits and job security.
• Promoting Women’s Right to Work and Equal Pay:
  • Advocates for equal pay for equal work and promotes women’s rights in caregiving roles, aiming to close gender pay gaps.

Significance:

• Essential Contributions of Caregivers:
  • Emphasizes the critical role of caregivers, advocating for better laws, programs, and societal appreciation.
• Sustainable Development and Well-being:
  • Recognizes care as vital to sustainable development, gender equality, and human well-being.
• Response to COVID-19 Impact:
  • Highlights the importance of caregivers in recovery efforts post-COVID-19, focusing on equitable and inclusive support systems.

History:

• UN Resolution of 2023:
  • In response to efforts by over 100 countries, the UN declared October 29 as the International Day of Care and Support.
• Origins in Advocacy:
  • Early 2000s saw civil society groups and unions push for a day to celebrate caregivers globally.
• ILO’s 2016 Care Agenda:
  • Advocated for investment in caregiving and recognition of unpaid care work.
• COVID-19 Pandemic Recognition:
  • Pandemic spotlighted caregivers’ roles, influencing the UN’s 2023 declaration of the first observance on October 29.

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2. What is the theme for Ayurveda Day 2024?
A) Ayurveda for Preventive Health
B) Ayurveda for a Balanced Life
C) Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health
D) Ayurveda and Sustainable Development
E) Ayurveda: The Science of Wellness
Answer: C) Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health

Event and Date:

• Event: Ayurveda Day 2024
• Date: Celebrated annually on Dhanvantari Jayanti (October 29, 2024)
• Theme for 2024: “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health”

Significance and Objectives:

• Purpose of Ayurveda Day: Established by the Government of India in 2016 to promote awareness of Ayurveda and honor Lord Dhanvantari, considered the god of Ayurvedic medicine.
• Global Celebration: This year marks the 9th Ayurveda Day, with over 150 countries participating, emphasizing Ayurveda’s role in addressing global health issues.

Key Objectives for Ayurveda Day 2024:

• Global Health Challenges: Focus on combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs), antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and climate-related health issues.
• Promotion of Preventive Health and Holistic Wellness: Strengthens support for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
• Expansion of Ayurvedic Research and Healthcare Projects: Inaugurations led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this day include:
  • Phase II of All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA): Launching new facilities such as a Panchakarma hospital, Ayurvedic pharmacy, and sports medicine unit.
  • Four Ayush Centres of Excellence:
    • Diabetes research at IISc, Bengaluru
    • Technological Solutions at IIT Delhi
    • Translational Research in Ayurveda at CDRI, Lucknow
    • Ayurveda and Systems Medicine at JNU, New Delhi
  • New Central Research Institutes in Yoga and Naturopathy: Establishment in Khordha, Odisha and Raipur, Chhattisgarh

Focus Areas for Ayurveda Day 2024:

• Women’s Health: Ayurveda offers guidance on lifestyle and diet, addressing unique health needs of women.
• Workplace Wellness: Integrating Ayurveda for mental well-being and stress management in the workplace.
• School Wellness Programs: Enhancing immunity and nutrition through Ayurvedic practices for children.
• Food Innovation: Combining Ayurvedic dietary principles with modern cooking for balanced, healing foods.

Celebratory Activities (October 21-29, 2024):

• Global Awareness Campaigns: Promoting Ayurveda’s benefits
• Educational Lectures, Public Rallies, Free Diagnostic Camps: Engaging the public in Ayurvedic practices

Historical Background of Ayurveda:

• Origins: Rooted in the Vedic period (5000-1000 BC), key texts include Caraka Samhita and Susruta Samhita, establishing Ayurveda as a structured medical system.
• Global Influence: Ayurveda’s practices influenced medical systems across China, Japan, Egypt, and Greece. Historically, universities like Takshashila and Nalanda drew international students by 200 BC.
• Current Global Reach: Recognized as a traditional system of medicine in 24 countries, Ayurveda has a growing global demand, with WHO incorporating Ayurvedic morbidity codes in ICD-11.

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Sports – Daily Current Affairs October 29

3. At which event did the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) receive the ‘Best Sports League of the Year’ award in 2024?
A) India Sports Summit
B) CII Score Card
C) Indian Sports Conclave
D) National Sports Awards
E) Global Sports Convention
Answer: B) CII Score Card

Event and Recognition:

• Event: Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) won the Best Sports League of the Year award at the CII Sports Business Awards 2024.
• Date and Location: October 18, 2024, in New Delhi, as part of the CII Score Card 2024 event.
• Significance: This award highlights PKL’s role in boosting the popularity of kabaddi and establishing it as a professional sport in India.

Statements from Key Officials:

• Anupam Goswami (League Commissioner):
  • Expressed gratitude and credited the award to the team’s dedication since PKL’s inception in 2014.
  • Reaffirmed PKL’s commitment to growing kabaddi and supporting India’s sporting ambitions.
• Charu Sharma (Director of PKL):
  • Praised PKL’s professional transformation of kabaddi, focusing on governance and sustainability, earning respect across the sports community.

Context and Broader Impact:

• National Sports Policy Alignment: This recognition aligns with India’s National Sports Policy 2024 objectives, which include fostering a robust sports ecosystem and promoting kabaddi as an Olympic sport.
• Impact on Youth Development: PKL’s success encourages investments in sports infrastructure and youth development programs, with franchise efforts like Puneri Paltan’s Yuva Paltan initiative, which earned them the Sports Franchise of the Year award.

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4. Which milestone moment in Matthew Wade’s career is best remembered for helping Australia secure their maiden T20 World Cup title?
A) Century in his debut Test match
B) Match-winning knock in the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final
C) Double century in the Ashes
D) Winning the IPL title
E) Captaincy of Australia in ODIs
Answer: B) Match-winning knock in the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final

Event and Announcement:

• Event: Retirement of Matthew Wade from international cricket, ending his 13-year career
• Roles and Contributions: Known as a versatile wicketkeeper-batter, Wade was known for his resilience and impact as a finisher for Australia, excelling across all three formats of the game.

Key Highlights of Wade’s Career:

• Career Stats:
  • Test Matches: 36
  • ODIs: 97
  • T20Is: 92
  • Wade has participated in 225 matches overall, demonstrating consistency and adaptability.
• Career-Defining Moment: Wade’s standout innings came in the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, where he scored 41 runs off 17 balls to lead Australia to the final. His innings included three sixes off Pakistan’s bowler Shaheen Afridi, a performance instrumental in Australia securing their maiden T20 World Cup title.

Post-Retirement Transition:

• Coaching Role: Wade will now transition into coaching, starting with the T20I and ODI series against Pakistan, bringing his expertise in white-ball cricket to support young Australian players.
• Domestic Involvement: Wade will continue playing in domestic circuits, representing Tasmania in white-ball cricket and the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League (BBL).

Significance of Wade’s Coaching Involvement:

• Mentorship Experience: Wade has prior experience mentoring youth and second XI teams for Tasmania, providing him with a solid foundation for his international coaching role.
• Impact on Australian Cricket: His experience in high-pressure situations, particularly in limited-overs formats, will benefit the next generation of Australian cricketers as they navigate international cricket.

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5. In which weight category did Chirag Chikkara secure his gold medal at the U23 World Wrestling Championships?
A) 55kg
B) 57kg
C) 65kg
D) 70kg
E) 97kg
Answer: B) 57kg

Event and Achievement:

• Event: U23 World Wrestling Championships 2024
• Achievement: Chirag Chikkara made history as the third Indian wrestler to win a gold medal at the U23 World Championships, competing in the men’s freestyle 57kg category.
• Final Match: He won a tight final match with a 4-3 victory over Abdymalik Karachov from Kyrgyzstan, scoring in the final moments to secure the title.

India’s Performance at the Championships:

• Total Medals: India earned a total of nine medals:
  • 1 Gold: Chirag Chikkara (Men’s 57kg freestyle)
  • 2 Silvers
  • 6 Bronzes
• Overall Team Ranking: India placed fourth in team rankings with 82 points, behind Iran (158), Japan (102), and Azerbaijan (100).

Notable Matches and Performances:

• Chikkara’s Path to the Final:
  • Defeated Gaukoto Ozawa 6-1 in pre-quarters
  • Overcame Iunus Iavbatirov 12-2 in quarterfinals
  • Won against Allan Oralbek 8-0 in semifinals
• Other Medal Winners:
  • Men’s Bronze: Vicky (97kg), Sujeet Kalkal (70kg), Vishvajit More (55kg Greco-Roman)
  • Women’s Medals:
    • 1 Silver: Anjli (59kg)
    • 3 Bronzes: Neha Sharma (57kg), Shiksha (65kg), Monika (68kg)

Historical Context:

• Past Indian Achievements:
  • Aman Sehrawat previously won gold in 2022 in the men’s category.
  • Ravi Kumar Dahiya claimed silver in 2018.
  • India’s performance this year surpasses previous records, showcasing the progress in Indian wrestling.

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs October 29

6. Which fintech firm recently completed its merger with North East Small Finance Bank?
A) Paytm
B) Slice
C) Razorpay
D) Pine Labs
E) BharatPe
Answer: B) Slice

Event and Location:

• Event: Completion of merger between Slice and North East Small Finance Bank
• Location: India, with a focus on enhancing financial services in the northeastern region
• Merger Approval Date: Received over a year ago from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Background and Process:

• Approval Timeline: The merger followed RBI’s no-objection certificate, and further regulatory and shareholder approvals.
• NCLT Approval: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Guwahati bench approved the merger, facilitating the integration of Slice’s parent companies Garagepreneurs Internet Private Limited and Quadrillion Finance Private Limited.

Strategic Goals:

• Enhanced Financial Services in Northeast India: Aims to improve financial inclusion and economic growth, particularly in the northeastern states.
• Expanded Product Offerings: The merged entity plans to introduce new banking products, including savings accounts and credit services, to serve a broader customer base.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on customer experience, leveraging technology and innovative banking solutions to streamline operations and improve services.

Leadership Remarks:

• Rajan Bajaj (CEO, Slice): Highlighted a focus on customer service, risk management, and streamlined governance.
• Satish Kumar Kalra (CEO, North East Small Finance Bank): Praised Slice’s technology and innovation, which are set to transform banking standards across India.

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7. What program launched by India Exim Bank aims to support cross-border trade financing in Africa?
A) Trade Empowerment Scheme
B) Global Trade Programme
C) Africa Development Initiative
D) Trade Assistance Programme (TAP)
E) India-Africa Business Integration Scheme
Answer: D) Trade Assistance Programme (TAP)

Event and Purpose:

• Event: State Bank of India (SBI) and India Exim Bank collaborate to bridge the trade finance gap in African countries.
• Purpose of Initiative: To support businesses involved in trade between India and Africa by providing access to finance and credit resources.
• Platform: The collaboration was highlighted at the India Entrepreneurs Forum (IEF), initiated by Consul General of India, Mahesh Kumar, to support smaller businesses in trade with India.

Key Contributions and Initiatives:

• SBI’s Role:
  • Funding Local Banks: Provides syndicated funding to local African banks, enabling them to support regional businesses.
  • Bilateral Credit Lines: Extends credit to institutions like Afri-Exim and the Africa Finance Corporation, facilitating bank guarantees for Indian corporations in over 40 African countries.
• India Exim Bank’s Role:
  • Trade Assistance Programme (TAP): Designed to address trade finance gaps by enhancing African commercial banks’ capacity for supporting cross-border trade.
  • Project Support: Active across 31 African countries, supporting projects such as IT infrastructure in Ethiopia and electrical network projects in Burundi.
    Collaborative Strategy and Future Plans
• Joint Efforts: Both SBI and India Exim Bank operate as complementary partners, adapting to evolving global trade practices, including potential local currency transactions within BRICS.
• Future Focus: Continued support for trade capabilities in Africa, with a focus on strengthening financial links between India and African nations to facilitate growth in bilateral trade.

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs October 29

8. Who has been recommended by FSIB as the next MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank (PNB)?
A) Atul Kumar Goel
B) Sandeep Kumar Gupta
C) Ashok Chandra
D) Sumit Kishore
E) Ajay Banga
Answer: C) Ashok Chandra

Event and Background:

• Event: Recommendation of Ashok Chandra as the new MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank (PNB)
• Recommending Body: Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB)
• Current Role: Ashok Chandra currently serves as the Executive Director at Canara Bank

Selection Process:

• Application Call: FSIB invited applications for PNB’s MD & CEO position on August 1, 2024, with submissions closing on August 29.
• Interview Process: Out of 16 candidates, Chandra was selected after interviews on October 26 and 28, based on his experience, performance, and leadership qualities.

Career Highlights of Ashok Chandra:

• Banking Career Start: Joined Corporation Bank in 1991.
• Notable Roles: Previously led recovery and stressed assets management at Union Bank of India as a General Manager.
• Qualifications: Holds a Master’s degree in Economics and is a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers.

Appointment Process:

• Final Approval: Following FSIB’s recommendation, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) forwards the name to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for final approval.
• Tenure and Salary: The MD & CEO of PNB position is typically a three-year term, with a salary scale of ₹205,400 – ₹224,400, plus allowances.

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9. Which IAS officer has recently assumed the role of Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI)?
A) M Suresh
B) Sanjeev Kumar
C) Rajiv Bansal
D) Vipin Kumar
E) Arun Kumar
Answer: D) Vipin Kumar

Event and Background:

• Event: Appointment of Vipin Kumar as the new Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI)
• Background: A 1996-batch IAS officer from the Bihar cadre, Vipin Kumar previously served as Additional Secretary in the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education.
• Previous Positions: Held notable roles, including Chairman of the Bihar Bridge Construction Corporation, Managing Director of Bihar Milk Cooperative Federation (SUDHA), and Director of Bihar’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme.

Objectives as Chairman:

• Airport Infrastructure Development: Focused on building world-class airport facilities across India.
• Enhanced Air Navigation Services: Aiming to improve air navigation to bolster safety and efficiency.
• Passenger Amenities: Committed to upgrading passenger services, aligning with the vision for a “Viksit Bharat-2047” to advance India’s aviation sector.

Airports Authority of India (AAI) Overview:

• Established: April 1, 1995
• Operations: Manages 133 airports, of which 110 are operational.
• Air Navigation Services: Manages 2.8 million square nautical miles of airspace.
• FY 2023-24 Performance Metrics:
  • Aircraft Movements: 10,53,960 (1,03,750 international, 9,50,210 domestic)
  • Passenger Traffic: 130.67 million (15.09 million international, 115.58 million domestic)
  • Freight: 688.38 thousand metric tons (338.85 thousand international, 349.53 thousand domestic)

Leadership Transition:

• Predecessor: Vipin Kumar succeeds M Suresh, who served as interim Chairman following the promotion of previous Chairman Sanjeev Kumar.

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10. Who has been appointed as the next MD and CEO of Bharti Airtel, effective January 1, 2026?
A) Pushpinder Gujral
B) Sunil Bharti Mittal
C) Siddharth Sharma
D) Shashwat Sharma
E) Gopal Vittal
Answer: D) Shashwat Sharma

Event and Transition:

• Event: Bharti Airtel announces Shashwat Sharma as the new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective January 1, 2026.
• Current Role of Sharma: Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Bharti Airtel.
• Transition Period: Sharma will serve as CEO designate for 14 months, during which he will manage the consumer business, covering mobility, home, and DTH services. This transition period allows Gopal Vittal, the outgoing MD and CEO, to mentor Sharma before he assumes the full role.

Background and Accomplishments of Gopal Vittal:

• Vittal’s Tenure: Over 12 years, he has been instrumental in expanding Airtel’s revenue market share from 30% to 40% and increasing the company’s market capitalization fivefold.
• New Role for Vittal: Vittal will transition to Executive Vice Chairman, focusing on Airtel’s enterprise and human resources segments.

Strategic Objectives and Growth Initiatives:

• Operational Restructuring:
  • DTH Services as Stand-alone: DTH services will now operate separately from the converged entertainment segment.
  • Customer Experience Function: Establishing a stand-alone function dedicated to improving customer experience.
• Leadership Appointments:
  • Siddharth Sharma: Appointed as Director of Marketing and CEO of Connected Homes.
  • Pushpinder Gujral: Appointed as CEO and Director of DTH.

Financial Performance:

• Recent Profit Surge: Bharti Airtel reported a 168% increase in consolidated net profit for the July-September quarter, amounting to ₹3,593 crore, following a significant tariff increase.

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs October 29

11. Who won the 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or?
A) Kylian Mbappé
B) Vinicius Junior
C) Rodri
D) Lionel Messi
E) Jude Bellingham
Answer: C) Rodri

Event and Location:

• Event: 2024 Ballon d’Or Awards
• Location: Paris, France
• Date: October 29, 2024

Key Award Winners:

• Men’s Ballon d’Or:
  • Winner: Rodri (Spain, Manchester City) – Celebrated for his pivotal role in Manchester City’s Premier League victory and his outstanding performance for Spain in Euro 2024, where he was named Player of the Tournament.
• Women’s Ballon d’Or:
  • Winner: Aitana Bonmatí (Spain, Barcelona) – Achieved her second consecutive title, helping FC Barcelona to a league and cup double, with Barcelona teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo following her in the rankings.

Additional Awardees:

• Kopa Trophy (Best U-21 Player): Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona) – Recognized for his impact on Spain’s Euro 2024 journey and impressive club performance with 16 goals for Barcelona.
• Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper): Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa) – Awarded for his exceptional season and international performances with Argentina.
• Gerd Müller Trophy (Top Scorer): Shared by Kylian Mbappé (France, PSG/Real Madrid) and Harry Kane (England, Bayern Munich) for scoring 52 goals each across competitions.

Coach and Club Awards:

• Men’s Coach of the Year: Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid) – Led Real Madrid to Champions League and La Liga successes.
• Women’s Coach of the Year: Emma Hayes (Chelsea, USA) – Honored for her contributions to Chelsea and her influence on women’s football internationally.
• Men’s Club of the Year: Real Madrid – For winning the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup.
• Women’s Club of the Year: FC Barcelona – Dominated in domestic competitions and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Humanitarian Recognition:

• Socrates Award: Jenni Hermoso (Spain, Tigres UANL) – Recognized for her humanitarian contributions off the field.

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12. Who presented the ANR National Award to Chiranjeevi in 2024?
A) Rajinikanth
B) Nagarjuna
C) Amitabh Bachchan
D) Kamal Haasan
E) Akshay Kumar
Answer: C) Amitabh Bachchan

Event and Significance:

• Event: ANR National Awards 2024
• Honoree: Chiranjeevi, celebrated Telugu film star, was honored with the ANR National Award for his lifetime contributions to cinema.
• Presenter: Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan presented the award, showing his respect and admiration for Chiranjeevi’s impact on Indian cinema.

About the ANR Award:

• Purpose: The ANR National Award, organized by the Akkineni International Foundation, honors artists who have made significant lifetime contributions to Indian cinema.
• Legacy: Named in honor of Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), a prominent actor-producer in Telugu cinema, this award commemorates his contributions and promotes the values he brought to the film industry.

Highlights of the Ceremony:

• Amitabh Bachchan’s Speech: Bachchan expressed gratitude to the Akkineni Foundation and reflected on the impact of Nageswara Rao’s work. He shared a personal moment, reciting a poem by his father on legacy and the arts.
• Chiranjeevi’s Gesture: Demonstrating respect, Chiranjeevi touched Bachchan’s feet, acknowledging the senior actor’s stature and their mutual respect.
• Bachchan’s Praise for Telugu Cinema: He lauded the Telugu film industry for its creativity and hospitality, humorously expressing his appreciation for its warm culture and culinary generosity.

Broader Impact:

• Celebration of Indian Cinema’s Diversity: The event emphasized the importance of collaboration between Bollywood and regional film industries, fostering mutual respect and cultural exchange.
• Future Collaborations: Bachchan’s involvement in upcoming Telugu cinema projects signifies a growing bridge between regional and Bollywood cinema.

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13. What is the name of Fiji’s highest civilian award that was recently conferred on Sri Sri Ravi Shankar?
A) Order of the Pacific
B) Medal of Fijian Honor
C) Honourary Officer of the Order of Fiji
D) Order of Unity
E) Fiji Peace Award
Answer: C) Honourary Officer of the Order of Fiji

Event and Honor:

• Event: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar received the Honourary Officer of the Order of Fiji, Fiji’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his global contributions to peace and community upliftment.
• Award Presenter: The award was presented by Fiji’s President, Ratu Wiliame M. Katonivere.

Contributions of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:

• Founder of The Art of Living Foundation: Established in 1981, The Art of Living Foundation operates in over 180 countries, focusing on mental health, education, environmental initiatives, and empowerment.
• Global Recognition: Sri Sri has been honored with top civilian awards from five other countries for his humanitarian impact, underlining his commitment to fostering peace and unity worldwide.

Engagement in Fiji:

• Meetings with Fijian Leaders: During his visit, Sri Sri engaged with Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka and UN Resident Coordinator Dirk Wagener, discussing potential initiatives in youth empowerment and mental health.
• Support from Indian High Commission: The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, P.S. Karthigeyan, hosted a reception where Sri Sri interacted with various dignitaries to further strengthen Indo-Fijian relations and support Fiji’s development.

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs October 29

14. Which country, besides Brazil, is a BRICS member that has also opted out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative?
A) Russia
B) India
C) South Africa
D) Argentina
E) Saudi Arabia
Answer: B) India

Event and Location:

• Event: Brazil’s decision to opt out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
• Location: Brazil, with diplomatic implications in BRICS and global geopolitics
• Date: Announced on October 29, 2024

Key Reasons for Brazil’s Decision:

• Strategic Autonomy: Brazil, led by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and advised by Celso Amorim, chose not to formally join the BRI but instead seek selective collaborations.
• Economic and Political Concerns:
  • Cautious approach due to concerns about BRI’s potential debt dependency risks, often termed “debt-trap diplomacy.”
  • Sovereignty and Debt Risks: Brazil prioritizes flexibility in choosing projects beneficial to its own infrastructure needs.
  • Influence of India’s Opposition: India’s longstanding concerns regarding BRI, especially around sovereignty issues related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), influenced Brazil’s cautious stance.

Background and Strategic Implications:

• US Influence: The United States, represented by Trade Representative Katherine Tai, advised Brazil to evaluate BRI’s risks cautiously. This guidance was met with disapproval from China, which labeled it as “interference.”
• China’s Reaction: China, aiming to strengthen BRI influence in BRICS, views Brazil’s decision as a setback, especially following India’s refusal to join the initiative.

India’s Concerns About BRI:

• Violation of Sovereignty: India views CPEC’s construction through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as an infringement on its sovereignty.
• Debt Trap Concerns: India has raised awareness of the financial instability resulting from BRI projects, citing examples like Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port.
• Transparency Issues: India argues that BRI projects often lack transparency and good governance.

Future of Brazil-China Relations:

• Alternative Partnerships with China: Despite opting out of the BRI, Brazil seeks a collaborative relationship with China, focusing on mutually beneficial projects.
• Position in BRICS: Brazil remains committed to BRICS, with former President Dilma Rousseff now heading the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), signaling ongoing cooperation within the bloc.

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs October 29

15. Who inaugurated India’s first Writer’s Village in Dehradun?
A) Prasoon Joshi
B) Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami
C) Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh
D) Former President Ram Nath Kovind
E) Former Chief Minister Nishank
Answer: D) Former President Ram Nath Kovind

Event and Location:

• Event: Inauguration of India’s First Writer’s Village
• Location: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
• Date: October 29, 2024

Key Highlights and Purpose:

• Inaugurating Dignitaries:
  • Former President Ram Nath Kovind, Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh (retd), and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
• Vision and Concept:
  • The Writer’s Village, conceptualized by former Chief Minister Nishank, aims to nurture creativity by providing writers with a serene and inspiring environment.
• Facilities Available:
  • Lekhan Kutir (Writing Cottages): Private spaces designed for focused writing.
  • Sanjeevani Vatika (Healing Garden): For relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Nakshatra and Navgrah Vatika (Astrological Gardens): Unique astrological gardens for inspiration.
  • Library, Art Gallery, Yoga and Meditation Centre: Resources for creative and spiritual inspiration.
  • Ganga and Himalaya Museum: Celebrating cultural and natural heritage.
  • Discussion Centre and Auditorium: Spaces for interaction, discourse, and events.

Key Statements and Significance:

• Former President Kovind: Praised the initiative, predicting its role in attracting tourists and fostering a unique cultural environment.
• Governor Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh: Emphasized Uttarakhand’s rich literary heritage, hoping the village inspires future generations.
• Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami: Highlighted the state’s cultural influence and the potential for enhanced local and global cultural connections.

Future Impact:

• Tourism and Cultural Hub: Expected to attract both tourists and writers, enhancing Dehradun’s role as a cultural destination.
• Global Reach: International attendees and participants suggest the potential for cross-cultural exchanges and international literary collaborations.

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16. What is the primary goal of the partnership between GAIL and VERBIO India?
A) To establish solar energy projects
B) To promote stubble burning
C) To convert agricultural residue into compressed biogas (CBG)
D) To reduce coal-based energy production
E) To increase fossil fuel imports
Answer: C) To convert agricultural residue into compressed biogas (CBG)

Event and Location:

• Event: Partnership between GAIL and VERBIO India to develop agricultural residue-based CBG projects
• Location: India, with specific project sites to be determined after feasibility studies
• Date of MoU Signing: October 29, 2024

Objectives and Goals:

• Renewable Energy Production: The primary goal is to convert agricultural waste into compressed biogas (CBG), promoting clean and sustainable energy.
• Emission Reduction: Aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental harm from stubble burning by providing an alternative use for crop residue.
• Rural Income Support: Enhances rural economies by supporting farmers who can sell agricultural waste, improving livelihoods.

Strategic Implementation:

• Feasibility Studies and Potential JV: GAIL and VERBIO will conduct studies to identify locations for greenfield CBG plants and may establish a Joint Venture (JV) to manage the projects.
• Equity in Existing Facilities: GAIL may acquire equity in VERBIO’s current CBG facility in Punjab, indicating a potential for broader collaboration.

Key Figures Present at MoU Signing:

• Sumit Kishore: GAIL’s Executive Director
• Ashish Kumar: Managing Director of VERBIO India
• Sandeep Kumar Gupta: Chairman and Managing Director of GAIL
• Claus Sauter: Founder and CEO of VERBIO

Impact on Sustainability and Rural Development:

• Renewable Energy Alignment: Supports India’s renewable energy goals by promoting bioenergy and clean fuel alternatives.
• Rural Economic Boost: Provides farmers with economic opportunities by purchasing agricultural residues for biogas production.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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17. What is the name of the new investment scheme launched by the Rajasthan government in 2024 to attract private investment?
A) Rajasthan Industrial Development Scheme
B) Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024
C) Rajasthan Startup Growth Scheme
D) Rajasthan Economic Revitalization Program
E) Rajasthan Enterprise Support Scheme
Answer: B) Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024

Event and Purpose:

• Event: Launch of the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024
• Objective: To attract private investment and boost economic growth in Rajasthan by offering substantial financial incentives across multiple sectors.

Key Highlights of RIPS 2024:

• Launch Timing: Announced ahead of the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Global Investment Summit 2024, set for December 9-11 in Jaipur, where Rajasthan aims to draw in domestic and international investors.
• Sectoral Focus: RIPS 2024 broadens support to emerging sunrise sectors like:
  • Aero & Space, Defence, Drones, Semiconductors, Agri-Tech, Waste Recycling
  • Construction Equipment, Pumped Hydro Storage, Electrolyser Manufacturing, Metals
  • Services such as Higher Education, Knowledge Industries, Vocational Training
• Incentives for IT/ITeS and Women-led Startups: IT/ITeS, tourism businesses, and women-led startups receive increased incentives under RIPS 2024, underscoring the scheme’s commitment to diversified growth.

Enhanced Financial Incentives:

• Mega Project Incentives: The first three mega or ultra-mega projects in sunrise sectors can benefit from a 25% extra incentive over the capital subsidy and turnover-linked or investment subsidies.
• Asset Creation Subsidy: New sectors can claim an additional 10% incentive on asset creation subsidies.

Economic Goals:

• Investment MoUs: Rajasthan has signed MoUs totaling ₹15 lakh crore for the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ initiative, aiming to position Rajasthan as a premier investment hub.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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