1. Margrethe II, who recently announced to abdicate the throne, is Queen of which country?

<p>Queen Margrethe II of Denmark announced her decision to abdicate after 52 years on the throne during her New Year&rsquo;s speech. She expressed her intention to pass on the responsibilities to her son, Crown Prince Frederik, marking a significant transition in the Danish monarchy.</p>

2. What is the daily payment limit for UPI transactions set by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) starting from January 1, 2024?

<p>Starting January 1, 2024, the daily payment limit for UPI transactions is set at Rs 1 lakh. However, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the transaction limit specifically for payments to hospitals and educational institutions to Rs 5 lakh on December 8, 2023. This adjustment aims to enhance the use of UPI for larger transactions in these critical sectors.</p>

3. In comparison to the typical day-night cycle on Earth, how long is the daylight period experienced by astronauts on the International Space Station?

<p>Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) experience a daylight period of about 45 minutes. This is due to the ISS's rapid orbit around Earth, completing a full orbit approximately every 90 minutes. Consequently, astronauts see multiple sunrises and sunsets daily, differing from Earth's typical day-night cycle.</p>

4. Who is the author of song “Banglar Mati Banglar Jal”, recently declared as State Song of West Bengal?

The West Bengal government has indeed declared Rabindranath Tagore's song "Banglar Mati Banglar Jal" as the State Song. This song, with a playing time of approximately 1 minute and 59 seconds, is now mandated to be played with due respect at the beginning of all state government functions. Additionally, the National Anthem must be played at the conclusion of these functions. This move highlights the cultural significance of Tagore's contributions to Bengali literature and identity.

5. The Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Technology for Women (LBSITW), which was recently in news for launching its nanosatellite called WESAT, is located in which city?

<p>On <strong>January 1, 2024</strong>, the <strong>WESAT (Women Engineered SATellite)</strong> was launched by students of the <strong>Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Technology for Women (LBSITW)</strong> in <strong>Thiruvananthapuram</strong>. The satellite, launched as a secondary payload aboard an <strong>Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)</strong> mission, specifically the <strong>Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C58/XPoSat mission</strong>, is notable for being the first Indian satellite fully designed and developed by women.</p> <p>WESAT, weighing <strong>1.4 kg</strong>, has the purpose of studying <strong>ultraviolet radiation</strong> and its effects, contributing valuable data for scientific research. This achievement is a significant milestone in empowering women in space technology and innovation.</p>

6. David Warner, who has retired from one-day international (ODI) and Test cricket, is a player from which country?

<p>Australian opener <strong>David Warner</strong> has announced his retirement from <strong>one-day international (ODI)</strong> and <strong>Test cricket</strong> to spend more time with his family. He plans to play his <strong>112th and final Test</strong> against Pakistan but will no longer participate in ODIs. Warner has had a remarkable ODI career, scoring <strong>22 centuries</strong> and accumulating <strong>6,932 runs</strong> at an average of <strong>45.30</strong> in <strong>161 matches</strong>. He was also a key player in the Australian team that won the <strong>ICC Cricket World Cup</strong> in India last year, contributing significantly to Australia's cricket success.</p>

7. Which city in Maharashtra has been selected by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as the venue to host the National Youth Festival 2024?

<p>The city of <strong>Nashik</strong>, Maharashtra, has been selected to host the <strong>National Youth Festival (NYF) 2024</strong> by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. Prime Minister <strong>Narendra Modi</strong> is set to inaugurate the 5-day festival on <strong>January 12</strong>, which marks the birth anniversary of <strong>Swami Vivekananda</strong>. This festival will witness the participation of around <strong>7,500 youths</strong> from across India, celebrating youth engagement, culture, and leadership. The NYF is held annually in honor of Swami Vivekananda's legacy.</p>

8. Who is the inspiration behind the new design of Indian Navy Admirals’ Epaulettes announced recently?

<div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="45e5d7e0-5d6c-4b24-b2db-71fefd164cc6"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>Unveiled on <strong>Navy Day 2023</strong>, the Indian Navy&rsquo;s new shoulder rank insignias (epaulettes) for senior leadership are inspired by the <strong>legendary Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj</strong>. The design incorporates elements from the <strong>Naval Ensign</strong> and reflects India's rich maritime heritage and indigenization efforts. Notable features include the <strong>golden button</strong> and <strong>octagon shape</strong>, symbolizing strategic vision. The insignia also integrates symbols like the <strong>sword</strong>, <strong>telescope</strong>, and the <strong>&lsquo;Rajmudra&rsquo; seal</strong> used by Shivaji in his decrees, creating a blend of historical significance and modern naval identity.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

9. Who is the first woman officer to be appointed as Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)?

<p>Senior IPS officer <strong>Nina Singh</strong> has made history as the first woman to be appointed as the Director General of the <strong>Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)</strong>. She has taken charge of the 1.65 lakh-strong force responsible for securing vital infrastructure. A Rajasthan cadre officer of the 1989 batch, Nina Singh has extensive experience and has served in a variety of policing roles throughout her career.</p>

10. What is the name of China’s cutting-edge ocean drilling vessel designed to penetrate the Earth’s crust and reach the mantle for the first time in human history?

<p>China's revolutionary new ocean drilling vessel, <strong>Mengxiang</strong>, aims to penetrate the Earth's crust and reach the mantle for the first time in human history. If successful, its planned drilling to breach the <strong>Mohorovicic discontinuity (Moho)</strong> over 7,000 meters beneath the ocean floor would mark a significant milestone in scientific exploration. The <strong>Mengxiang</strong> is designed to withstand extreme conditions, reflecting its advanced engineering and the ambition behind this groundbreaking project. This achievement would open doors to unprecedented scientific discovery and understanding of the Earth's interior.</p>

11. The recently renamed Maa Manikeswari University is located in which state of India?

<p>The <strong>Maa Manikeswari University</strong>, formerly known as <strong>Kalahandi University</strong>, is located in <strong>Odisha</strong>, India. It was renamed to honor <strong>Maa Manikeswari</strong>, the presiding deity of the Kalahandi district. The university has been operational since <strong>September 1, 2020</strong>, and the name change was officially announced by <strong>Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik</strong> on <strong>November 1</strong>, during the foundation day of Kalahandi district.</p>

12. Which are the primary objects of study for the recently launched XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) by ISRO?

<div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="2562a624-5e02-4957-94b5-34c9ced52c9f"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>The <strong>XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite)</strong>, recently launched by <strong>ISRO</strong>, aims to investigate the polarization of intense X-ray sources and explore the enigmatic world of black holes. It is India&rsquo;s first dedicated scientific satellite for space-based polarization measurements of X-ray emissions from celestial sources.</p> <p><strong>XPoSat</strong> carries two key scientific payloads:</p> <ul> <li><strong>POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays)</strong>: Designed to measure polarization parameters in the medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons.</li> <li><strong>XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing)</strong>: Provides spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV.</li> </ul> <p>These instruments will enhance our understanding of X-ray sources in space, particularly neutron stars and black holes, by offering detailed measurements of X-ray polarization and spectroscopy.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

13. India’s longest sea bridge, recently making headlines, connects which two locations?

<p>The <strong>Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL)</strong>, India&rsquo;s longest sea bridge, is scheduled to be inaugurated on <strong>January 12</strong>. Spanning <strong>22 kilometers</strong>, it connects <strong>Sewri</strong> in south Mumbai to <strong>Chirle</strong> in the outskirts of Navi Mumbai, crossing over Thane Creek. Originally planned to be completed in 4.5 years, the project experienced an eight-month delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The MTHL is expected to greatly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, enhancing connectivity and easing congestion.</p>

14. Which state set a Guinness World Record in 2024 for the most number of people performing Surya Namaskar simultaneously at 108 venues?

<p>On <strong>January 1, 2024</strong>, <strong>Gujarat</strong> set a Guinness World Record for the largest number of people performing Surya Namaskar simultaneously at <strong>108 different venues</strong>, with over <strong>50,000</strong> participants. This remarkable achievement was celebrated as a significant cultural milestone. The event, which featured a state-wide competition, included a major gathering at the iconic <strong>Modhera Sun Temple</strong> in Mehsana district. The initiative was overseen by <strong>Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel</strong> and received praise from <strong>Prime Minister Narendra Modi</strong>, who highlighted the cultural importance of the number 108 in Indian tradition.</p>

15. Which city is the location of recently inaugurated India’s first Girls’ Military School?

<div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0"> <div class="gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="48851bbb-ee6c-41d5-85ab-9dc0127b1899"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>The first Girls&rsquo; Military School in India, named&nbsp;<strong>Samvid Gurukulam Girls Military School</strong>, was inaugurated in <strong>Vrindavan, Mathura</strong>. The event was jointly conducted by <strong>Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath</strong> and <strong>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</strong>. Established by <strong>Sadhvi Ritambhara</strong>, the school is located within the Vatsalya Gram campus and aims to provide education and training to <strong>870 female students</strong>. This initiative represents a significant step in extending military education, traditionally reserved for male students, to female students in India.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

16. Which state is host of the India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’?

<div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0"> <div class="gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="4d8b3e71-6130-4109-aaa0-dac8208ed7b3"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>The inaugural edition of the India-UAE joint military exercise&nbsp;<strong>&lsquo;Desert Cyclone 2024&rsquo;</strong> will be hosted in <strong>Rajasthan</strong> from <strong>January 2nd to January 15th, 2024</strong>. This exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and UAE forces by exchanging best practices in areas such as urban operations. It is part of the expanding defense ties between India and the UAE, reflecting their strategic partnership.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

17. Who heads the committee set up to examine the issue of holding simultaneous elections in India?

<p>The high-level committee headed by former President <strong>Ram Nath Kovind</strong> was set up to examine the feasibility of holding simultaneous elections in India. This concept involves conducting elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies together, aiming to streamline the election process and reduce costs. The committee has been actively consulting on this proposal, which has garnered support. The government is working on a roadmap to enable synchronized two-phase Lok Sabha and assembly polls starting from 2024.</p>

18. What is the name of government scheme with the primary aim of providing financial assistance to tuberculosis (TB) patients for their nutritional needs?

<p>The <strong>Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY)</strong>, introduced by the government in April 2018, aims to provide financial assistance to tuberculosis (TB) patients for their nutritional needs. The scheme offers ₹500 per month as a direct benefit transfer (DBT) to TB patients. This support is intended to help them purchase food and maintain a nutritious diet during their TB treatment, addressing undernutrition, which is a significant risk factor for TB.</p>

19. What is the primary objective of the North-East Venture Fund set up by NEDFi?

<p>The <strong>North-East Venture Fund (NEVF)</strong>, established by <strong>NEDFi (North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd.)</strong>, is dedicated to encouraging and supporting startup ventures in the North-East region of India. With a commitment of ₹100 crore contributed by the ministry, NEDFi, and SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India), NEVF aims to foster entrepreneurship and business initiatives in the region. This initiative aligns with NEDFi&rsquo;s broader role in providing financial assistance and advisory services for various enterprises and projects in India&rsquo;s North-East.</p>

20. Since which year, India and Pakistan exchange list of their nuclear installations and facilities in first week of January?

<p>India and Pakistan have been exchanging lists of their nuclear installations and facilities every January 1st since <strong>January 1, 1992</strong>, following the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations and Facilities. This agreement, signed in 1988 and effective from 1991, mandates both countries to inform each other annually about their nuclear installations and facilities. The recent exchange marks the 33rd consecutive instance of this practice.</p>

21. Where is the National Fisheries Development Board establishing an Eri silk spinning plant?

<p>The National Fisheries Development Board is setting up an Eri silk spinning plant at <strong>Mushalpur, Baksa district</strong> in Assam. This ₹15 crore project, part of the blue revolution scheme, aims to provide direct employment to 375 individuals and benefit approximately 25,000 households involved in silk production.</p>

22. What is the name of the scheme established by the Supreme Court of India to ensure the safety of witnesses facing threats?

<p>The Supreme Court of India&rsquo;s <strong>Witness Protection Scheme</strong> aims to address the issue of witnesses turning hostile during trials due to harassment or lack of protection. The scheme includes provisions for threat assessment and protective measures categorized into three levels of threat perception. This nationwide scheme is designed to ensure the safety and security of witnesses facing threats.</p>

23. Who has been recently appointed as the Chairman of the Sixteenth Finance Commission?

<p><strong>Dr. Arvind Panagariya</strong> has indeed been appointed as the new Chairman of the Finance Commission of India. As an eminent economist and former Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Dr. Panagariya will head the 16th Finance Commission. This Commission is tasked with recommending the formula for tax devolution between the central and state governments for the period starting from 2026-27.</p>

24. Recently, which oceanographic research vessel of the Indian Navy has embarked on the Sagar Maitri Mission-4 to Oman?

<p><strong>INS Sagardhwani</strong>, an oceanographic research vessel of the Indian Navy, has embarked on the <strong>Sagar Maitri Mission-4</strong> to Oman. The mission aims to establish long-term scientific partnerships and collaborations with Indian Ocean Rim countries, focusing on ocean research and development. It also serves to showcase India's capabilities in marine science and technology.</p>

25. Who has been recently appointed as the new Chief of Materiel of the Indian Navy?

<p>Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh has succeeded Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani as the Chief of Materiel of the Indian Navy. In this role, he will oversee the Materials Branch, which is responsible for logistics and maintenance within the Navy.</p>

26. The Kharsawan Massacre, that was recently in news, happened in which current state?

<p>The Kharsawan massacre on January 1, 1948, was a tragic event where police opened fire on a large gathering of Adivasis protesting the merger of the princely state of Kharsawan into Odisha. The protesters, who had assembled to hear a speech by Jai Prakash Singh Munda, were fired upon by the police when he did not arrive. The incident resulted in hundreds of deaths and is considered a grim parallel to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, highlighting the severe repression faced by the Adivasi community during that period.</p>

27. When is the ‘World Braille Day’ observed every year?

<p>World Braille Day is observed on January 4 each year to honor Louis Braille, the French educator who developed the Braille system, which greatly enhances literacy and communication for blind and partially sighted individuals. The day was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019 to raise awareness about the importance of Braille and promote accessibility. January is indeed observed as Braille Literacy Month to further highlight the significance of this tactile writing system.</p>

28. What was the primary field of Ved Prakash Nanda, who passed away recently?

Ved Prakash Nanda was indeed a distinguished professor of International Law and made significant contributions to the field. His work was recognized with the Padma Bhushan award in 2018, reflecting his impact on literature and education. The Ved Nanda Center for International and Comparative Law at the University of Denver stands as a testament to his legacy and influence in international legal scholarship. His passing on January 1, 2024, marks the end of an era for many who were inspired by his work and dedication.

29. Who is the author of recently released the book titled “Why Bharat Matters”?

Dr. S. Jaishankar's book, "Why Bharat Matters," explores India's evolving role in global politics and its transformation in foreign policy over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By juxtaposing India's modern journey with the Ramayana, the book provides a unique perspective on the country's growth and challenges. In his release, Dr. Jaishankar also highlighted anticipated geopolitical turbulence in 2024 but expressed confidence in India's ability to navigate these challenges due to its inherent strength.

30. What is the name of female cheetah that recently gave birth to three cubs in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh?

<p>The birth of three cheetah cubs by 'Aasha,' named by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a significant milestone for India's cheetah restoration project.</p> <p>This event, which took place inside Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, represents a crucial step in reintroducing cheetahs to their native habitat. Authorities are closely monitoring Aasha and her cubs to ensure their health and successful development, reflecting the project's ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and biodiversity.</p>

31. Which three items from Arunachal Pradesh recently received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag?

Arunachal Pradesh has recently been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tags for three of its distinctive products: Adi Kekir Ginger: A renowned variety of ginger known for its unique flavor and quality, which is cultivated in the Adi community region of Arunachal Pradesh. Handmade Carpets by Tibetan Settlers: Carpets crafted by Tibetan artisans in Arunachal Pradesh, reflecting traditional techniques and designs unique to the region. Wooden Items by the Wancho Community: Wooden artifacts and sculptures created by the Wancho community, showcasing their intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The GI tag helps in promoting these products by certifying their geographical origin and enhancing their marketability.

32. Who is the author of “Chip War: The Fight for the World’s Most Critical Technology”?

Chris Miller's address at Tamil Nadu’s Global Investors Meet will likely provide valuable insights into the semiconductor industry and its geopolitical implications. His expertise on the US-China semiconductor rivalry could stimulate discussions on technology, policy, and investment opportunities in the sector.

33. In which year, Savitribai Phule established the country’s first school for women?

Savitribai Phule and her husband Jyotiba Phule were indeed trailblazers in advocating for women's education and social reform in India. Their efforts in establishing the first school for women in 1848 were instrumental in advancing the cause of women's education and empowerment. Their work laid the foundation for future generations to build upon, fostering progress and change in Indian society.

34. Which public sector space enterprise will launch India's GSAT-20 satellite aboard a SpaceX rocket later in 2024?

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) is indeed planning to launch the GSAT-20 communications satellite in the second quarter of 2024. This satellite will be launched aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. GSAT-20 is designed to address the increasing demand for high-throughput communication services in India, especially for expanding broadband connectivity and other communication needs across the country.

35. Which organization recently signed an MoU with National Remote Sensing Centre to develop a Green Cover Index for National Highways?

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has indeed signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ISRO's National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to develop a "Green Cover Index." This collaboration, spanning three years, aims to use satellite imagery for monitoring and assessing the green cover and plantation along the extensive network of national highways across India. The initiative is part of efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and track the progress of afforestation and reforestation activities along the highways.

36. Which corporate group is setting up Asia's first testing facility for Hyperloop transportation technology at IIT-Madras?

ArcelorMittal has indeed partnered with IIT-Madras to build Asia's first testing facility for Hyperloop pods and systems. The Hyperloop is an innovative transportation technology that uses magnetic levitation to float pods through vacuum tubes, allowing for ultra-high-speed travel of goods and people. This facility will be crucial for advancing research and development in Hyperloop technology and could play a significant role in the future of transportation.

37. What is the name of the biosimilar antidiabetic drug recently launched by Glenmark in the Indian market?

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has indeed launched Lirafit, a biosimilar to the widely used antidiabetic medication Liraglutide. By pricing Lirafit approximately 70% lower than the original, Glenmark aims to make diabetes therapy more affordable and accessible to a larger number of patients in India. This move is expected to significantly benefit those managing diabetes by providing a cost-effective treatment option.

38. Which organization along with CCRAS launched the 'SMART 2.0' program to promote clinical studies in priority areas of Ayurveda?

The 'SMART 2.0' initiative launched by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) in collaboration with the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) aims to advance clinical research in Ayurveda. The program focuses on promoting studies in key areas of Ayurvedic medicine through collaboration with institutions nationwide. Its goal is to generate robust evidence on the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic treatments, employing interdisciplinary research approaches to enhance the scientific validation of Ayurveda.

39. Who is the current (2024) CEO of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)?

<div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="4b11b028-fa6c-4b56-acfd-a369b3a2461e"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0"> <div class="gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="87114d97-9817-41c3-929e-fd64f82ad917"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>Rajesh Kumar, CEO of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), revealed that cyber criminals have siphoned off over ₹10,300 crore from India since April 2021, highlighting significant financial losses.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

40. Which state government has prohibited government offices from purchasing petrol and diesel vehicles from January 1, 2024?

<p>On January 1, 2024, Himachal Pradesh banned the purchase of petrol and diesel vehicles by government offices, shifting exclusively to electric vehicles. This initiative aims to make the state clean and green by March 31, 2026.</p>

41. According to the UN's World Economic Situation and Prospects 2024 report, which region is expected to have the highest GDP growth in 2024?

<p>The UN's World Economic Situation and Prospects 2024 report forecasts South Asia's GDP growth at 5.2%, driven largely by India, with its GDP expected to grow by 6.2% this year.</p>

42. Which country recently imposed a ban on its citizens from traveling to Russia or Ukraine for employment?

<p>Nepal has banned its citizens from traveling to Russia or Ukraine for employment due to concerns over their involvement in the conflict. This follows reports of Nepalese recruits and casualties.</p>

43. Who has been named as the president-designate for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29)?

<p>Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan&rsquo;s Ecology Minister, has been appointed president-designate for COP29. He succeeds Sultan al-Jaber, former COP28 president, and brings experience from SOCAR to lead the global climate talks.</p>

44. What is the overall cost of the "PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)" scheme approved by the Union Cabinet of India?

<p>The Union Cabinet approved the &ldquo;PRITHVI&rdquo; scheme with a ₹4,797 crore budget, aimed at advancing scientific research and technology in earth sciences, particularly in the Himalayan region, from 2021 to 2026.</p>

45. Which Indian organization recently tested successfully a new kind of battery Silicon High energy Li-ion cell, featuring a Si-Graphite composite as anode material?

<p>ISRO successfully tested a Silicon High Energy Li-ion battery cell with 190 Wh/kg energy density, surpassing conventional cells, during the PSLV-C58 mission, marking a key advancement in space battery technology.</p>

46. Who has been appointed as India's ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in Geneva?

Senthil Pandian C, an IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre from the 2002 batch, has been appointed as India's ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved his appointment on January 5, 2024. He will serve a three-year term, succeeding Brajendra Navnit, whose tenure as India's ambassador to the WTO has concluded.

47. Which Indian Grandmaster recently received support from the Adani Group for the Candidates chess tournament?

<p>R. Praggnanandhaa, an 18-year-old Grandmaster, received support from the Adani Group for his participation in the Candidates chess tournament, scheduled for April 2024 in Toronto.</p>

48. Which organization has developed India's man-portable air defense missile system, the VSHORADS?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed India's man-portable air defense missile system, known as the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS). This system is designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats with an engagement range of up to 6 kilometers. It enhances India's capability to protect against short-range aerial attacks.

49. Sukanta Majumdar, who is one of the recipients of the Sansad Ratna Awards, belong to which political party?

<div class="flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end"> <div> <div class="pt-0"> <div class="gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="group/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="e08fe414-b169-4f7e-83bc-4a62eb91bfe3"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>Sukanta Majumdar, along with Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Sudheer Gupta, Amol Ramsing Kolhe, and Kuldeep Rai Sharma, received the Sansad Ratna Award for their outstanding performance in the Lok Sabha.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

50. The Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, that was recently in the news, is located in which state?

<p>The Chhattisgarh High Court ordered the removal of illegal encroachers from Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, citing ISRO satellite imagery showing the area as dense forest until 2012.</p>

51. Kyaukphyu SEZ and deep-sea port, that was recently in news, is located in which country?

China's push to expedite the construction of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in western Myanmar’s Rakhine state aims to enhance access to the Bay of Bengal. The initiative, spearheaded by Kyaukphyu SEZ Deep Seaport Co. Ltd, is a joint venture between CITIC Myanmar Port Investment Ltd and the Myanmar government-backed Kyaukphyu SEZ Management Committee. The project includes the development of the Kyaukphyu SEZ and a deep-sea port, reflecting China's broader strategy to strengthen its economic and strategic influence in Southeast Asia.

52. Sheikh Hasina, who recently secured a record fourth consecutive term as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, belongs to which political party?

Sheikh Hasina's leadership and the Awami League's substantial victory in the recent elections reinforce their dominant role in Bangladeshi politics. Her party's win of 200 out of 300 parliamentary seats underscores their significant influence and her continued prominence as Prime Minister.

53. What is the brand name of the environmental label under the Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme recently launched by the environment ministry?

The PRAMAAN label, part of the Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme, is designed to provide environmental certification for forest and tree-based products. Launched by the environment ministry, it covers forest management, tree outside forest management, and chain of custody certification to promote sustainable practices and combat deforestation and illegal timber trade.

54. What is the amount of hydropower India has agreed to purchase from Nepal according to the recent agreements signed between the two countries?

India and Nepal have recently signed agreements for India to purchase 10,000 MW of hydropower from Nepal. This deal will enable Nepal to export 10,000 MW of electricity to India over the next decade. The agreement was finalized during comprehensive talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Nepalese Foreign Minister N.P. Saud.

55. As on 1st of January, 2024, who is the President of Ukraine ?

56. Who is the Vice President of India, as on 1st of January, 2024?

<p>As of January 1, 2024, the Vice President of India is:<strong>&nbsp;Jagdeep Dhankhar.</strong></p> <p>He took office on August 11, 2022.</p>