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February 2024
Smart 350 News PDF
(PDF in English)

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Page | 3 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
INDEX
National & States Affairs……..…………………………………………………………………………….……5
International Affairs..………………………………………………………………………………………..….28
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs..………..………………………….……….…….35
Defence Affairs….…………………………………………….….……...………………………………………..59
Sports & Games ..…………………………………………….….……...…………………………….…….……63
Persons in News…………………….……………………….….……...………………………………………...76
Arts & Cultural Affairs………………….…..…………….….……...………………………………………...77
Science & Technology………..…………………………………………………….…….…..……………......79
Appointments & Resignations…………………………….……………………….……..…………….......89
Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes ………………………….……………….…………..…….....97
Schemes & Initiatives…………………………………………………………………….………….………...108
Meetings, Conferences and Summits…………………………….…………………….…..…….……...119
Ranks, Reports & Surveys…………………………………………………………………..…….…….……129
Ordinance, Bills & Acts……………………………………….……………………………….…………..…..139
MoUs, Collaborations & Parterships….………………….…………………………..…………….…...140
Obituaries………………………………………………….…………………………..........................….....146
Important Days………………………………………….…………………………..........................….....146
Books & Authors….…………………….…………………………………………………….…………….……148

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National & States Affairs
1. On February 1, University Grants Commission (UGC) issued guidelines to provide ‘equitable opportunity’ for the Socio-
Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs). The guidelines are prepared by an expert committee headed by Manikrao
M. Salunkhe. The guidelines have recommended setting up a SEDGs Cell in every higher education institution approved by
the UGC for implementing policies and constitutional rights such as reservation, sensitising all stakeholders, monitoring,
equalising access to inclusive quality higher education, ensuring respectful dignity, promoting egalitarian and
constitutional values, and grievance redressal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UGC – issued guidelines to provide ‘equitable opportunity’ for Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs)
• Guidelines prepared by a committee headed by – Manikrao M. Salunkhe
• The guidelines recommended setting up a SEDGs Cell in every Higher Education Institution approved by the UGC
• HQs of UGC – New Delhi | Chairman – M. Jagadesh Kumar | Founded in – 1956

2. The “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” will be India’s nomination for recognition as
UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2024-25. The 12 component parts of this nomination
are - Salher fort, Shivneri fort, Lohgad, Khanderi fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg,
Panhala Fort, Vijay durg, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu. These
components, distributed across diverse geographical and physiographic regions, showcase the
strategic military powers of the Maratha rule. Maratha Military Landscapes of India, which
developed between 17th and 19th centuries, represent an extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the
Maratha rulers. There are more than 390 forts in Maharashtra out of which only 12 forts are selected under the Maratha
Military Landscapes of India, of these 8 forts are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. These are Shivneri fort,
Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala fort, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg and Gingee fort. Whereas, Salher fort, Rajgad, Khanderi
fort and Pratapgarh are protected by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra. There
are two categories of nomination- cultural and natural criteria, the Maratha Military landscapes is nominated in the
category of ‘cultural criteria’. At present in India, there are 42 World Heritage sites, out of which 34 are cultural sites, 7 are
natural sites, and 1 is mixed site which is Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ – India’s nomination for recognition as UNESCO World Heritage List for year
2024-25 in ‘Cultural Criteria’ category
• Two categories of nominations – cultural & natural criteria
• This nomination has 12 component parts:
- Maharashtra: Salher fort, Shivneri fort, Lohgad, Khanderi fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala
Fort, Vijay durg, Sindhudurg
- Tamil Nadu: Gingee Fort
• 8 forts protected by ASI – Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg & Gingee fort
• 4 forts protected by Directorate of Archaeology & Museums – Salher fort, Rajgad, Khanderi fort & Pratapgarh
• India – has 42 World Heritage sites (34 are cultural sites, 7 are natural sites, & 1 is mixed site)
• 1 mixed site – Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim)
• HQs of UNESCO – Paris, France | DG – Audrey Azoulay | Founded in – 1945 | Members – 193 Countries
• Maharashtra: CM – Eknath Shinde | Governor – Ramesh Bais

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3. Boney Kapoor’s Bayview Projects LLP has won the tender to develop the 1,000-acre International Film City near the
upcoming Jewar Airport, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The company is a joint venture between Boney Kapoor and Noida-based
real estate developer, Bhutani group. The project will entail an investment of Rs 10,000 crore. The entire project should be
completed by 2028-29. The objective of the project is to provide an integrated media infrastructure for the movie business
value chain. The concession period will be for 40 years, which will be extendable for 30 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bayview Projects LLP – won tender to develop 1,000-acre International Film City near Jewar Airport, UP
• Bayview Projects LLP is a JV between = Boney Kapoor + Bhutani group (Noida)
• 2028-29 – is the deadline of project completion with concession period for 40 years
• UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel

4. Ministry of Textiles organized “One Bharat Sari Walkathon” in Kota, Rajasthan,

from February 3 to 8, in conjunction with AatmNirbhar Bharat Utsav, to promote
textiles. Ministry of Textiles has earlier organized two editions of Sari Walkathon at
Surat (April 9, 2023) and Mumbai (December 10, 2023). Thousands of women came
all dressed in Saris representing the pride of their state to promote the spirit of the
textile and support the vocal for local idea. The event aims to raise awareness about
fitness among women and to encourage them lead healthier lives. The handloom
sector of India engages more than 35 lakh persons. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Textiles + AatmNirbhar Bharat Utsav = organized “One Bharat Sari Walkathon” in Kota, Rajasthan
• Two previous Sari Walkathons – Surat (April 9, 2023) & Mumbai (December 10, 2023)
• Rajasthan: Capital – Jaipur | CM – Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor – Kalraj Mishra
• Minister of Textiles: Piyush Goyal | Constituency – Maharashtra
• MoS in Ministry of Textiles: Darshana Vikram Jardosh

5. Union Minister of Coal, Pralhad Joshi, launched a web portal of Coal Mines Provident Fund Organization (CMPFO),
namely “C-CARES”, developed and designed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), an R&D
organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. This aims to address the long-standing issue of
digitizing CMPFO’s records and work processes. The portal being a public service platform is intended to benefit the CMPF
subscribers who are working in the coal sector as well as its pensioners. CMPFO is an autonomous organization under the
aegis of Ministry of Coal, established in 1948. At present, CMPFO process settlement claims of Provident Fund subscribers
and pensioners manually. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pralhad Joshi – launched a web portal of CMPFO, namely “C-CARES”, developed & designed by C-DAC under MeiTY
• CMPFO – Coal Mines Provident Fund Organization
• CMPFO – autonomous organization under Ministry of Coal, established in 1948
• Minister of Coal & Mines: Pralhad Joshi | Constituency – Dharwad, Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Coal & Ministry of Mines: Danve Raosaheb Dadarao
• HQs of C-DAC – Pune, Maharashtra | Senior Director – Mahesh Kulkarni (functions under MeitY)

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6. 5 more Indian wetlands have been added to the global list of “Wetlands of
International Importance under the Ramsar Convention”, taking the total number of
such highly recognised waterlogged ecosystems in India to 80. Of the five wetlands
added to the Ramsar list, Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve, Ankasamudra Bird
Conservation Reserve, and Aghanashini Estuary are in Karnataka and Karaivetti Bird
Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest are in Tamil Nadu. The Ramsar
Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and wise use of wetlands. It is named after the Iranian city of
Ramsar, on the Caspian Sea, where the treaty was signed on February 2, 1971. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5 more Indian wetlands added to global list of “Wetlands of International Importance under Ramsar Convention”
• Total Ramsar Sites in India – 80
• The 5 newly added sites are:
- Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka)
- Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka)
- Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka)
- Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
- Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu)
• Ramsar Convention was signed on February 2, 1971 in Iranian city of Ramsar

7. Karnataka government announced to launch a “Digital Detox” initiative in collaboration with the All India Game
Developers Forum (AIGDF), with special emphasis on gaming and social media. The aim is to spread awareness about the
ills of spending too much time in the digital world and instead create an environment of responsible gaming. Through this
initiative, both online and offline Digital Detox Centres will be set up across the state of Karnataka, which will offer
personalised guidance. Also, the Government of Karnataka will work with AIGDF and the National Institute of Mental
Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) to raise awareness about mindful technology. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka govt + AIGDF = to launch a “Digital Detox” initiative
• Aim – to spread awareness about the ills of spending too much time in the digital world
• Karnataka – will work with AIGDF & NIMHANS to raise awareness about mindful technology
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot

8. Ministry of Women and Child Development developed the “Track Child Portal”, which enables tracking of the missing
and found children in all States/UTs. The Track Child portal is implemented with support and involvement of various
stakeholders namely Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Railways, State Governments/ UT Administrations, Child
Welfare Committees, Juvenile Justice Boards, National Legal Services Authority, etc. The TrackChild portal is also
integrated with the Crime and Criminal Tracking & Network Systems (CCTNS) of the Ministry of Home Affairs. One
component of TrackChild Portal has “Khoya-Paya” where any citizen can report for any missing or sighted children.
Further, a portal namely “GHAR - GO Home and Re-Unite” (Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child) has been
developed and launched by National Commission for Protection of Child Right (NCPCR). The GHAR portal has been
developed to digitally monitor and track the restoration and repatriation of children as per the protocols under the
‘Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015’. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• MoWCD – developed the “Track Child Portal”
• The portal is also integrated with – Crime and Criminal Tracking & Network Systems (CCTNS)
• “Khoya-Paya” – a component of TrackChild Portal, where any citizen can report for any missing or sighted children
• “GHAR - GO Home and Re-Unite” Portal was also launched | Developed & launched by – NCPCR
• GHAR portal – will digitally monitor & track restoration & repatriation of children as per protocols under ‘Juvenile
Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015’
• Minister of Women & Child Development: Smriti Irani | Constituency – Amethi, Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Women and Child Development: Munjapara Mahendrabhai

9. Water Metro Service has been launched in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on the
Saryu River. Okaya EV, a brand in electric vehicle charging solutions, has
commissioned high capacity EV chargers for the Ayodhya Water Metro Project
spearheaded by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL). These eco-friendly boats are
designed to accommodate up to 50 passengers, providing a comfortable and
sustainable mode of transportation. Anshul Gupta is the Managing Director of
Okaya EV. India’s first water metro was launched in Kochi, Kerala, in April 2023.
The Kochi water metro connects 10 islands around the city in Malabar coast. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ayodhya Water Metro Service has been launched on Saryu River (capacity - 50 passengers)
• Okaya EV – commissioned high capacity EV chargers for Project spearheaded by CSL
• India’s first water metro – launched in Kochi, Kerala (in April 2023)
• HQs of Okaya EV – Nagoya, Japan | MD – Anshul Gupta
• HQs of Cochin Shipyard – Kochi, Kerala | Chairman & MD – Madhu S. Nair | Incorporated in – 1972

10. In the next fiscal FY 2024-25, ONGC, IOC and other oil PSUs will invest about Rs 1.2 lakh crore in oil and gas
exploration, refineries, petrochemicals and laying pipelines to meet the needs of the world's fastest-growing energy
consuming nation. The investment proposed in 2024-25 is 5% higher than Rs 1.12 lakh crore spent by the State-owned oil
firms in the current fiscal FY 2023-24 that ends on March 31, 2024. Indian Oil Corp (IOC) will be the top spender with an
investment outlay of Rs 30,910 crore in FY25. Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) will spend Rs 30,800 crore, Bharat
Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) will invest Rs 13,000 crore, GAIL India Ltd will invest Rs 8,000 crore, Hindustan Petroleum Corp
Ltd (HPCL), a subsidiary of ONGC, will invest Rs 12,500 crore, & Oil India Ltd (OIL) will invest Rs 6,880 crore. BPCL and HPCL
are aiming to end net carbon emission from their operations by 2040 and IOC is aiming for 2046 for the same. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Oil PSUs – will invest about Rs 1.2 lakh cr in oil & gas exploration, refineries, petrochemicals & laying pipelines in
FY25
• Investment outlay will be:
- IOC – Rs 30,910 Cr (top spender)
- ONGC – Rs 30,800 Cr
- BPCL – Rs 13,000 Cr

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11. Chennai Metro Rail has become the first metro services to join Open Network for
Digital Commerce (ONDC) network. The overall ticketing experience on ONDC
Network was enabled by CMRL partnering with Yaary, the first seller-side technology
partner for metros to go live on the ONDC Network. This will allow a wide range of
app developers to integrate their apps with the CMRL ticketing system. This initiative
not only simplifies the ticket purchasing process but also paves the way for a holistic,
multimodal transportation experience. MA Siddique is the MD of Chennai Metro Rail
Ltd (CMRL). T Koshy is the MD & CEO of ONDC. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chennai Metro Rail – became 1st metro services to join ONDC network
• Overall ticketing experience on ONDC Network was enabled by = CMRL + Yaary
• HQs of ONDC – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Thampy Koshy
• MD of Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) – MA Siddique

12. Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued the guidelines,
named “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot projects for use of
Green Hydrogen in the Shipping Sector”, under the National Green
Hydrogen Mission (NGHM). Under the Mission, along with other initiatives,
the ministry will implement pilot projects in the shipping sector, for
replacing fossil fuels and fossil fuel-based feedstock with Green Hydrogen
and its derivatives. These pilot projects will be implemented through the
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW). The total budgetary
outlay of the scheme is Rs 115 Crore till FY 2025-26. The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched on January 2,
2023, with an outlay of Rs 19,744 Crore up to FY 2029-30. Moreover, the MNRE also issued the guidelines, named
“Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Steel Sector”, under the NGHM,
with an outlay of Rs 455 Crore till FY 2029-30. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MNRE – issued guidelines, named “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot projects for use of Green
Hydrogen in the Shipping Sector” under NGHM

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• Total budgetary outlay of the scheme till FY 2025-26 – Rs 115 Crore
• MNRE – will implement project for replacing fossil fuels & feedstock with Green Hydrogen & its derivatives
• These pilot projects will be implemented through – MoPSW
• NGHM was launched on – January 2, 2023 (Outlay – Rs 19,744 Cr up to FY 2029-30)
• MNRE – issued guidelines, named “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot projects for use of Green
Hydrogen in the Steel Sector”, under NGHM
• Outlay till FY 2029-30 – Rs 455 Cr
• Ministry of Power and Ministry New & Renewable Energy: Raj Kumar Singh | Constituency – Arrah, Bihar
• MoS in Ministry of Power: Krishan Pal Gurjar

13. Paradip Port Authority (PPA) registered the highest ever monthly cargo
throughput of 14.32 million metric tons (MMT) in the history of all Major Ports
in India. Earlier, the record was 13.5 MMT achieved in March, 2023. Cargo
volume handled by PPA in current fiscal till January end stands at 119.85 MMT
in comparison to 109.28 MMT recorded in corresponding period of last fiscal,
the growth of 9.67%. The Port has also registered remarkable improvement in
the Key Performance Parameters. Berth productivity stands at 32612 MT per
day per ship, which is the highest among all Major Ports of the country. Paradip Port is just 53 km from Jagatsinghpur city
in Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha, India. It is at the confluence of the Mahanadi river and the Bay of Bengal. P. L.
Haranadh is Chairman of PPA. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paradip Port – registered the highest ever monthly cargo throughput of 14.32 MMT in the history of all Major Ports
• Earlier, the record was 13.5 MMT achieved in March, 2023
• Cargo volume handled by PPA in current fiscal till January 31, 2024 stands at 119.85 MMT (growth of 9.67%)
• Berth productivity stands at 32612 MT per day per ship, the highest among all Major Ports of India
• Paradip Port is located in Jagatsinghpur, Odisha, at the confluence of Mahanadi river & the Bay of Bengal

14. On February 6, Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the 2-day “ULLAS Mela” at the
National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi. Ministry of Education organised ‘ULLAS Mela’ in collaboration with Cell for National
Centre for Literacy (CNCL)-NCERT to showcase various National and State level activities under ‘ULLAS - Nav Bharat
Saksharta Karyakram’. To achieve the target of 100% literacy by 2030, the Government of India is implementing a centrally
sponsored innovative scheme called ‘Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram’ or ‘New India Literacy Program’ for the period of
FYs 2022-2027. The scheme is popularly known as ‘ULLAS: Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society’, upholding
the motto “Jan-Jan Sakshar”. The scheme, in line with NEP 2020, targets adults (aged 15 and above) who could not go to
school or attain formal education. It focuses on imparting Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN). The scheme consists
of 5 components: (i) Foundational Literacy and Numeracy; (ii) Critical Life Skills; (iii) Basic Education; (iv) Vocational Skills;
and (v) Continuing Education. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dharmendra Pradhan – inaugurated “ULLAS Mela” at the National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi
• ‘ULLAS Mela’ was organised by = Ministry of Education + CNCL-NCERT
• It was organised under – ‘ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram’
• GoI is implementing ‘Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram’ or ‘New India Literacy Program’ (centrally sponsored)

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15. Indian Navy has declared 2024 as “Year of Naval Civilians” to improve administration, efficiency and well-being of
Naval Civilians by addressing all facets of Civilian HR Management in a time bound manner. Major focus areas towards
maximising administrative efficiency, digital initiatives, generic and specific training programmes and welfare activities
have been identified for implementation in 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Navy declared 2024 as – “Year of Naval Civilians”
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi

16. Telangana Chief minister A Revanth Reddy announced a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh and a monthly pension of 25,000 to
the Padma award winners from the state. In January 2024, the central government announced Padma awards for five
personalities from Telangana - Dasari Kondappa (Art), A Velu Ananda Chari (Art), G Sammaiah (Art), Kurrella Vittalacharya
and Kethavath Somlal (Literature & Education). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• A Revanth Reddy – announced a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh & a monthly pension of 25,000 to Padma award winners
• GoI announced Padma awards for 5 personalities from Telangana in January 2024:
- Dasari Kondappa (Art)
- A Velu Ananda Chari (Art)
- G Sammaiah (Art)
- Kurrella Vittalacharya
- Kethavath Somlal (Literature & Education)
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Tamilisai Soundararajan

17. Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Piyush Goyal, launched the sale of Rice under
‘Bharat’ brand and flagged off 100 mobile vans. The launch of retail sale of ‘Bharat’ Rice will increase supplies in the
market at affordable rates and will help in continued moderation of prices of this important food item. ‘Bharat’ Rice will be
available at all physical and mobile outlets of Kendriya Bhandar, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of
India (NAFED) and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF). With the launch of sale of ‘Bharat’ Rice,
consumers can get rice, atta, dal as well as onions from these outlets at fair and affordable prices. Bharat Rice will be sold
at maximum retail price (MRP) of Rs 29/kg. Bharat Atta is already being sold by these 3 agencies at Rs 27.50/kg, Bharat Dal
(chana dal) at Rs 60/kg for 1kg pack and Rs 55/kg for 30 kg pack, and Bharat Onions at Rs 25/kg. {Read more}

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18. On February 6, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the integrated Sea Survival Training
Centre, “ONGC Institute”, in Goa. This state-of-the-art Centre is a watershed moment
for India in making a mark in the sea survival training ecosystem. ONGC Sea Survival
Centre has been developed as a one-of-a-kind Integrated Sea Survival Training Centre
to advance the Indian sea survival training ecosystem to global standards. It is expected
to train 10,000-15,000 personnel annually. Exercises in simulated and controlled harsh
weather conditions enhance the Sea Survival skills of trainees and thus potentially
increase the chances of safe escape from real-life disasters. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated integrated Sea Survival Training Centre, “ONGC Institute”, in Goa
• It will advance the Indian sea survival training ecosystem to global standards
• Goa: Capital – Panaji | CM – Pramod Sawant | Governor – P. S. Sreedharan Pillai

19. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved extension of Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund
(FIDF) for another 3 years up to 2025-26, within the already approved fund size of Rs 7522.48 crore and budgetary support
of Rs 939.48 crore. FIDF was created by the Union Government during 2018-19. The completed 27 projects in its earlier
phase of FIDF, created safe landing and berthing facilities for more than 8100 fishing vessels, enhancement of fish landing
of 1.09 lakh tones, benefiting around 3.3 lakh fishers and other stakeholders and creation of 2.5 lakh direct and indirect
employment opportunities. FIDF will continue providing concessional finance to the Eligible Entities (EEs) for development
of identified fisheries infrastructure facilities through Nodal Loaning Entities (NLEs) like NABARD, NSDC & all Scheduled
Banks. The eligible entities under FIDF are State Governments/UTs, State Owned Corporations, State Government
Undertakings, Government Sponsored & Supported Organizations, Fisheries Cooperative Federations, Cooperatives,
Collective Groups of fish farmers & fish produces, Panchayat Raj Institutions, SHGs, NGOs, Women & their entrepreneurs,
Private Companies and Entrepreneurs. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying,
has set up a dedicated Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – approved extension of Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) up to 2025-26
• Approved fund size – Rs 7522.48 Cr | Budgetary support – Rs 939.48 Cr
• FIDF – was created by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying during 2018-19
• Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying: Parshottam Rupala | Constituency – Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan & Dr. L. Murugan

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20. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved 6 projects of Ministry of
Railways with total estimated cost of Rs 12,343 Crore (approx) with 100% funding from Central Government. The multi-
tracking proposals will ease operations and reduce congestion, providing the much-required infrastructural development
on the busiest sections across Indian Railways. The 6 projects covering 18 districts in 6 States (Rajasthan, Assam,
Telangana, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh & Nagaland) will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by 1020 Kms and
will provide employment of about 3 Crore man-days to the people of these States. The projects are result of PM-Gati
Shakti National Master Plan for multi-model connectivity. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCEA – approved 6 projects of MoR, 100% funding from Central Govt | Estimated cost - Rs 12,343 Cr approx
• The projects will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by 1020 Kms
• The projects will cover 18 districts in 6 States (Rajasthan, Assam, Telangana, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh & Nagaland)
• Minister of Railways: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
• MoS in Ministry of Railways: Danve Raosaheb Dadarao & Darshana Vikram Jardosh

21. Tata Group, comprising 18 firms, has become the first Indian conglomerate to
cross Rs 30 lakh Cr (Rs 30 trillion) market cap, backed by a sharp rally in TCS and Tata
Motors. More than half of the group’s market value comes from Tata Consultancy
Services, whose market cap hit the Rs 15 lakh crore mark for the first time. The surge
was boosted by a deal the IT firm signed to transform Europe Assistance’s IT operating
model using artificial intelligence and machine learning. The Reliance Group holds the
second position on the market-cap leaderboard, at Rs 21.60 lakh crore. The Adani
Group is ranked third, with a combined market value of Rs 15.54 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata Group – became 1st Indian conglomerate to cross Rs 30 lakh Cr (Rs 30 trillion) market cap
• Market cap of TCS hit Rs 15 lakh Cr mark for the first time | Tata Group – comprises 18 firms
• 2nd – RIL (Rs 21.60 lakh Cr) | 3rd – Adani Group (Rs 15.54 lakh Cr)
• HQs of Tata Group – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Natarajan Chandrasekaran

22. Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Arjun Munda, launched the
centralized “Kisan Rakshak Helpline 14447 and Portal”, Agri-Insurance Sandbox
Framework Platform, “SARTHI”, and Learning Management System (LMS) Platform for
the farming community under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). Kisan
Rakshak Helpline provides multilingual support, enabling transparent communication and
real-time resolution of grievances related to compensation delays and insurance queries.
The Learning Management System (LMS) Platform, developed in collaboration with the
National E-Governance Division (NeGD), aims to provide stakeholders with the essential
skills and knowledge needed for efficient crop insurance and agricultural credit. The
comprehensive digital insurance platform ‘SARTHI’ was launched in collaboration with UNDP India. SARTHI extends
coverage to health, life, home, shop, agriculture implements, motor, and parametric products. Since its inception in 2016,
the PMFBY has been a safety net for farmers in India, protecting them from the unpredictability of nature through crop
insurance. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• Arjun Munda, launched the following initiatives for farming community under PMFBY:
- Centralized “Kisan Rakshak Helpline 14447 and Portal”
- Agri-Insurance Sandbox Framework Platform, “SARTHI” (launched in collaboration with UNDP India)
Learning Management System (LMS) Platform (developed in collaboration with NeGD)
• Kisan Rakshak Helpline – for real-time resolution of grievances related to compensation delays & insurance queries
• LMS Portal – to provide essential skills & knowledge needed for efficient crop insurance & agricultural credit
• SARTHI – extends coverage to health, life, home, shop, agriculture implements, motor, and parametric products
• PMFBY – was started in 2016
• Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Arjun Munda | Constituency – Khunti, Jharkhand
• MoS in Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Shobha Karandlaje & Kailash Choudhary

23. Telangana State Board for Wildlife has approved a proposal by the Forest Department to declare the corridor area
between Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) & Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana) as a conservation reserve, called
“Tadoba-Kawal Conservation Reserve”. Once the process is completed, the 1,492-square kilometre area in Kagaznagar and
Asifabad divisions will be a conservation reserve, with increased protection and conservation measures. Telangana has
also approved a pending proposal for increasing the compensation amount given to the kin of the persons who die in wild
animal attacks, from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Telangana State Board for Wildlife – approved a conservation reserve called “Tadoba-Kawal Conservation Reserve”
• It is a corridor area between Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) & Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana)
• Telangana – approved a pending proposal for increasing compensation amount given to kin of persons who die in
wild animal attacks, from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Tamilisai Soundararajan

24. The Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce
(ONDC) launched the “DigiReady Certification (DRC)” portal to empower
MSMEs and small retailers. For the initiative, QCI, in conjunction with ONDC,
aim to assess and certify digital readiness of MSME entities. By leveraging this
online self-assessment tool, MSMEs can evaluate their preparedness to
seamlessly onboard as sellers on the ONDC platform, thereby expanding their
digital capabilities and business potential. It also resonates with the objectives
of the recently launched FIRST (Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers, and Traders). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• QCI + ONDC = launched “DigiReady Certification (DRC)” portal to empower MSMEs and small retailers
• It also resonates with objectives of FIRST (Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers, and Traders)
• HQs of QCI – New Delhi | Chairman – Jaxay Shah | Secretary General – Dr. Ravi P. Singh | Established – 1997
• HQs of ONDC – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Thampy Koshy

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25. Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for state
government employees appointed on or after April 1, 2006. With this, Sikkim becomes the first state in the Northeast to
implement this decision. As part of various welfare measures, the government also amended policies regarding the
regularisation of temporary employees, aiming to connect with voters as the election season approaches. The revival of
the Old Pension System is as outlined in the ‘Sikkim Services (Pension) Rules, 1990’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sikkim – reinstated Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for state govt employees appointed on or after April 1, 2006
• Sikkim – became the 1st state in the Northeast to implement this decision
• Revival of Old Pension System is as outlined in – ‘Sikkim Services (Pension) Rules, 1990’
• Sikkim: Capital – Gangtok | CM – Prem Singh Tamang | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya

26. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prof. S. P. Singh
Baghel, launched the first phase of the Bi-annual Nationwide Mass Drug
Administration (MDA) campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis elimination. The
campaign aims to check disease transmission by providing free preventive
medications to the residents in areas affected by the disease. The campaign
will cover 92 districts across 11 states. Prof S P Singh Baghel reiterated India’s
commitment to ending Lymphatic Filariasis (elephantiasis) by 2027, three
years before the global target. Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, launched the ‘Mission
Mode India MDA Campaign’ for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027. The 11 endemic states - Assam, Bihar,
Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat - will be
participating in the campaign. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoHFW – launched 1st phase of Bi-annual Nationwide MDA campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis elimination
• Aim – to check disease transmission by providing free preventive medications to residents affected by disease
• India aims to ending Lymphatic Filariasis (elephantiasis) by – 2027
• Mansukh Mandaviya – launched ‘Mission Mode India MDA Campaign’ for elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Palitana, Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Bharati Pravin Pawar & S. P. Singh Baghel

27. Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the “EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme” in New
Delhi. The program symbolises a whole-of-society approach to empowerment through access and opportunities of
education, particularly to students belonging to economically disadvantaged sections. It will provide financial support to
economically marginalised and meritorious students of Navodaya Vidyalayas. The minister said that 70 students are being
bestowed upon the scholarship amounting to Rs 5 crore. The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme, in alignment with
the National Education Policy 2020, is a powerful force aimed at revolutionizing opportunities for quality education and
access to higher education institutions. The programme is implemented by Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), a
Mini Ratna Category-1 Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dharmendra Pradhan – launched “EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme”
• It will provide financial support to economically marginalised & meritorious students of Navodaya Vidyalayas
• 70 students are being bestowed upon the scholarship amounting to Rs 5 crore

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28. On February 13, NITI Aayog unveiled the “Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)” report
and portal, aiming to bolster efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable land use across India. The GROW
initiative includes the launch of the “Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)-Suitability
Mapping” portal on ‘Bhuvan’, ensuring universal access to state and district-level data. Additionally, NITI Aayog introduced
an “Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI)” for national-level prioritization, utilizing thematic datasets. Presently, agroforestry
covers 8.65% of India’s total geographical area, encompassing approximately 28.42 million hectares. The GROW report
emphasizes the immense potential of converting underutilized areas, particularly wastelands, into productive agroforestry
zones. This initiative aligns with national commitments to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and
establish an additional carbon sink capable of sequestering 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• NITI Aayog – unveiled the “Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)” report
• Aim: To bolster efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable land use across India
• NITI Aayog – also launched GROW-Suitability Mapping portal on ‘Bhuvan’ ensuring universal access to state and
district-level data
• NITI Aayog – introduced “Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI)” for national-level prioritization
• Presently, agroforestry covers 8.65% (28.42 million hectares) of India’s total geographical area
• This initiative aligns with national commitments to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030
• HQs of NITI Aayog – New Delhi | CEO – BVR Subrahmanyam | Chair – Narendra Modi | VC – Suman K. Bery

29. To promote the rich cultural heritage of South India, Sangeet Natak
Akademi (SNA), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Culture,
plans to set up a Regional Centre of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Hyderabad
that will be known as ‘Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra’. The akademi has
no presence in South India so far. The centre is envisaged for the promotion
research and documentation of Music, folk and tribal arts, theater and
puppetry and will be developed as a state of the art Regional centre.
Further, the Ministry of Culture had recently commemorated the 100th birth
anniversary of the legendary musician par excellence, freedom fighter and Padma Awardee Sri Ghantasala Venkateswara
Rao. Keeping the contributions of Ghantasala in mind, the Sangeet Natak Akademi has proposed the construction of an
auditorium that shall be known as “Bharat Kala Mandapam” within the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik kendra in Madhapur,
Hyderabad. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) – to set up a Regional Centre of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Hyderabad
• It will be known as – ‘Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra’ | SNA works under – Ministry of Culture
• Ministry of Culture – had recently commemorated 100th birth anniversary of Sri Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao
• SNA – proposed the construction of an auditorium “Bharat Kala Mandapam” within Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik kendra

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30. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) announced to start commercial production of fuels at India’s newest refinery
in Rajasthan’s Barmer city by January 2025. The refinery-cum-petrochemicals complex, being built at a cost of nearly Rs
73,000 Crore, will have a crude processing capacity of 9 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). The new refinery is expected to
cater to the rapidly rising fuel demand in the northern parts of India. HPCL’s Rajasthan refinery will be the first refinery to
be commissioned in India since Indian Oil Corporation’s (IOC) 15-mtpa unit in Odisha’s Paradip. India aims to increase its
total refining capacity to 450 mtpa from 254 mtpa. According to the International Energy Agency’s projections, India will
overtake China in 2027 to become the biggest driver of oil demand growth globally. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HPCL – to start commercial production of fuels at India’s newest refinery in Rajasthan’s Barmer city by January 2025
• Refinery building cost – approx Rs 73,000 crore | Crude processing capacity – 9 mtpa
• This refinery will be 1st refinery to be commissioned in India since IOC 15- unit in Odisha’s Paradip
• India aims to increase its total refining capacity to 450 mtpa from 254 mtpa
• IEA: India will overtake China in 2027 to become the biggest driver of oil demand growth globally
• HQs of HPCL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CMD – Pushp Kumar Joshi | Founded in – 1974
• Rajasthan: Capital – Jaipur | CM – Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor – Kalraj Mishra

31. 3,479 child labourers were rescued from across Telangana through “Operation Smile-X”, a month-long operation
organised by the Telangana police in January 2024. According to the Cyberabad police, 329 children were from within the
State whereas 389 children belonged to other states. At state level, 676 police personnel were deployed for this operation.
The Cyberabad police commissionerate reunited 526 children with their parents/guardians and sent 192 to shelter homes.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Operation Smile-X” – was organised by the Telangana police in January 2024
• 3,479 child labourers were rescued from across Telangana
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Tamilisai Soundararajan

32. Kalyani Steel Limited has proposed to invest Rs 26,000 crore to set up a “Titanium Metal and
Aerospace Components Manufacturing and Integrated Advanced Specialty Steel and Automotive
Components Manufacturing Complex” at Gajamara in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district. It is going to be the
first aerospace and defence manufacturing complex in Odisha. The project is set to usher in a new era
of industrial growth and job creation in the state, with employment potential of over 12,000. The
project will bring in vendors in the areas of manufacturing and service sectors that will provide a boost to the local MSMEs
and start-ups. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kalyani Steel – to invest Rs 26,000 Cr to set up a “Titanium Metal & Aerospace Components Manufacturing &
Integrated Advanced Specialty Steel & Automotive Components Manufacturing Complex” at Dhenkanal, Odisha
• It will be first aerospace & defence manufacturing complex in Odisha
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

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33. Ministry of Education launched “APAAR (Automated Permanent
Academic Account Registry)” through Common Service Centres (CSCs) in
remote villages of India. The objective of APAAR is ‘One Nation, One
Student ID’. APAAR has been conceptualized under the National Education
Policy (NEP 2020) in which all college/university-going students are
required to register on ABC, i.e., Academic Bank of Credits (a digital
repository or digital storage). According to the new rule, it is necessary to
have an ABC ID to take admission to any college or university. A business
model for this service for Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) is also being considered. The VLEs will go to schools and enrol
students and will provide them with APAAR ID. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of All India Council for Technical Education
(AICTE), said that APAAR ID will remain with the children for their entire life. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoE – launched “APAAR” through CSCs in remote villages of India | Objective – ‘One Nation, One Student ID’
• APAAR – Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry | ABC – Academic Bank of Credits
• APAAR is conceptualized under – NEP 2020 in which all college/university students are required to register on ABC
• APAAR ID will remain with the children for their entire life
• HQs of AICTE – New Delhi | Chairman – T. G. Sitharam (AICTE functions under Ministry of Education)
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Madhya Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Education: Subhas Sarkar

34. Ministry of Information & Broadcasting made several recommendations for the National Film Awards regulations.
Accordingly, changes have been incorporated in the 70th National Film Awards (2022) Regulations. The ministry
recommended that the ‘Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director’ be renamed as ‘Best Debut Film of a
Director”, and the award money be increased to Rs 3 lakh. It also recommended that the ‘Nargis Dutt Award for Best
Feature Film on National Integration’ be clubbed with ‘Best Film on Social Issues’ & ‘Best Film on Environment
Conservation/Preservation’, and be renamed as ‘Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values’
(Rajat Kamal to director and producer with Rs 2 lakh each). Moreover, the prize money for ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Award has’
has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. The Best Animation Film and the Best Special Effects categories have
been clubbed under a new category of Best AVGC Film. The Best Actor award (Rajat Kamal with Rs 50,000) has been
renamed as ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role’ (Rajat Kamal and Rs 2 lakh); and the Best Actress (Rajat Kamal with Rs 50,000) to
‘Best Actress in a Leading Role’ (Rajat Kamal with Rs 2 lakh). The committee had also recommended that only one award
be given in each category. Shared awards may be given only under exceptional circumstances. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of I&B made several recommendations for National Film Awards regulations:
- ‘Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director’ – renamed as ‘Best Debut Film of a Director” (Rs 3 lakh)
- ‘Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration’ – clubbed with ‘Best Film on Social Issues’ &
‘Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation’ (new name - ‘Best Feature Film Promoting National,
Social and Environmental Values’) (Rs 2 lakh prize)
- Prize money for ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Award’ – increased to Rs 15 lakh (from Rs 10 lakh)
- Best Animation Film & Best Special Effects categories – clubbed under a new category of Best AVGC Film
- Best Actor award (Rs 50,000) – renamed as ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role’ (Rs 2 lakh prize)
- Best Actress (Rs 50,000) – renamed as ‘Best Actress in a Leading Role’ (Rs 2 lakh prize)

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35. On February 17, Arunachal Pradesh has become the 1st northeastern
state and 10th Indian state to achieve 100% coverage under the Har Ghar Jal
scheme providing functional household tap connection in every rural home.
Arunachal Pradesh has now joined the elite club of Goa, Andaman & Nicobar
Islands, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Haryana, Telengana,
Puducherry, Gujarat, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh which have attained
100% coverage. Among the other Northeast states, Mizoram has achieved
99.89% coverage and is close to achieving the milestone. The national
average of the coverage is over 74%. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is
envisioned to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections by 2024 to all
households in rural India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arunachal Pradesh – become 1st northeastern state & 10th Indian state to achieve 100% coverage under Har Ghar Jal
• Mizoram – achieved 99.89% coverage | National average of coverage is over 74%
• JJM – aims to provide safe & adequate drinking water through household tap by 2024 to all households in rural India
• Arunachal Pradesh: Capital – Itanagar | CM – Pema Khandu | Governor – Lt. Gen. Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik

36. A fruit namely “Kaji nemu” (kaji lemon), has been declared the state fruit of Assam.
Kaji nemu is a lemon whose botanical name is citrus limon, and it is a GI-certified
product. Kaji nemu, known for its juicy, aromatic nature, and immense nutritional value,
holds a special place in Assam’s agricultural landscape. This lemon is now being exported
to UAE and London. One-horned rhino is the State Animal of Assam, while the white-
winged wood duck is the State Bird. And foxtail orchid is the State Flower. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Kaji nemu” (a GI-certified product) – declared as the state fruit of Assam | Botanical name – citrus limon
• This lemon is now being exported to UAE and London
• State Animal of Assam – One-horned rhino | State Bird – White-winged wood duck | State Flower – Foxtail orchid
• Assam: Capital – Dispur | CM – Himanta Biswa Sarma | Governor – Gulab Chand Kataria

37. Haryana Police has become the first police force in India to use drones to launch tear gas
devices. The Haryana Police recently dropped tear gas shells from unmanned aerial vehicles
(UAV) on protesting farmers at Shambhu Barrier on the Punjab-Haryana boundary. The State
government used drones made by Karnal-based Drone Imaging and Information Service of
Haryana Limited (DRIISHYA), a public limited company. The drone-based tear smoke launcher to
control riots and for other crowd control situations was developed by the Tear Smoke Unit
(TSU) of the Border Security Force (BSF) in 2022 but it has not been sold to any state police force yet. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Haryana Police – become first police force in India to use drones to launch tear gas devices
• The drones were made by – DRIISHYA | DRIISHYA – Drone Imaging and Information Service of Haryana Limited
• The drones were used at – Shambhu Barrier on Punjab-Haryana boundary
• Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Manohar Lal Khattar | Governor – Bandaru Dattatraya

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38. The Indian government has increased the authorised capital of Food Corporation of India
(FCI) from Rs 10,000 Crore to Rs 21,000 Crore to enhance the operational capabilities and fulfill
its mandate effectively. FCI is the central government’s nodal agency that undertakes the
procurement of foodgrains at a minimum support price (MSP) to protect the interest of farmers.
It also maintains strategic stocks and distributes the grains under different welfare schemes.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI – increased authorised capital of FCI from Rs 10,000 Cr to Rs 21,000 Cr
• FCI – GoI’s nodal agency to undertake procurement of foodgrains at an MSP to protect interest of farmers
• HQs of FCI – New Delhi | CMD – Ashok K. K. Meena

39. Union minister for power and new & renewable energy, R. K. Singh, announced the establishment of a “Centre for
Energy Transition” in Hyderabad. It will be developed by the Government of India in collaboration with The Energy and
Resources Institute (TERI). This centre aims to lead the way in sustainable energy transition and innovation in renewable
energy. This centre aims to develop comprehensive energy transition pathways, not only for India but also for other
nations. The minister said that India is the only major economy which has achieved both Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs) way ahead of schedule. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• R. K. Singh – announced the establishment of a “Centre for Energy Transition” in Hyderabad
• It will be developed by = GoI + TERI
• HQs of TERI – New Delhi | DG – Dr. Vibha Dhawan | Established in – 1974

40. The Healthy Indian Project (THIP) has been included as a member of the World Health Organization’s
(WHO) “Vaccine Safety Net (VSN)”. This significant milestone underscores THIP’s commitment to
delivering credible and verified vaccine safety information to the people of India. VSN serves as a global
network of websites that provide trustworthy and verified vaccine safety information. Sudipta Sengupta is
Founder and CEO of THIP. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• THIP – included as a member of WHO’s “Vaccine Safety Net (VSN)” | THIP – The Healthy Indian Project
• VSN – serves as a global network of websites that provide trustworthy and verified vaccine safety information
• HQs of THIP – Hoogly, West Bengal | CEO – Sudipta Sengupta

41. As part of the ‘Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047’, India has planned to
develop 6 mega ports by 2047, which will significantly boost its cargo
handling capacity. The initiative will focus on two categories: (i) ‘Mega Ports
with capacity exceeding 500 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA)’ which
includes - Deendayal and Tuna Tekra Port Cluster & Jawaharlal Nehru-
Vadhavan Port Cluster; (ii) ‘Mega Ports with capacity exceeding 300 MTPA’
which includes - Cochin-Vizhinjam Port Cluster, Galathea South Bay Port,
Chennai-Kamarajar-Cuddalore Port Cluster, Paradip & Other Non-Major Ports
Cluster. This initiative marks a significant step in India’s maritime ambitions and positions the country as a major player in
global trade. {Read more}

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42. Punjabi University has introduced a revolutionary system called “PURAN” to enhance the typing experience in the
Gurmukhi script on the internet. The innovative system is designed to provide users with appropriate sentence
suggestions as they type, catering to various topics and expressions. The system not only suggests sentences but also
ensures their relevance to the user’s intended topic. Through meticulous research and development, “PURAN” emerged as
the most user-friendly and effective solution, embodying a fusion of technological prowess and linguistic finesse. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Punjabi University – introduced “PURAN” to enhance the typing experience in the Gurmukhi script on internet
• It will provide appropriate sentence suggestions while typing & ensure their relevance to the user’s intended topic
• Punjab: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Bhagwant Mann

43. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) announced the reconstitution of the Expert
Committee on the implementation of Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) and International Financial Reporting
Standards (IFRS) in the insurance sector. The 13-member committee, which will be headed by Rajay Kumar Sinha, the
Member (Finance & Investment) F&I of IRDAI, will also include the Chairman of the Accounting Standards Board (ASB) of
ICAI, the President of the Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI), among others. The team will work on steps that may be taken
towards the effective implementation of Ind AS/IFRS, along with giving phase-wise timelines. The committee will also
address the requirements of guidance notes, APS, and Education Material from respective professional institutes. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• IRDAI – to reconstitute the Expert Committee on implementation of Ind AS & IFRS in insurance sector
• The 13-member committee will be headed by – Rajay Kumar Sinha, Member (Finance & Investment) F&I of IRDAI
• IFRS – International Financial Reporting Standards | Ind AS – Indian Accounting Standards
• HQs of IRDAI – Hyderabad, Telangana | Chairman – Debasish Panda

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44. The Union Cabinet took a series of key decisions, which included the approval for
amendments to the existing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy on space sector. Under
the amended FDI policy, 100% FDI is allowed in space sector. The amended policy extends
the facility of up to 74% FDI under the automatic route for satellite manufacturing and
operation, satellite data products and ground/user segment. Beyond 74%, these activities
are under government route. Up to 49% FDI under the automatic route will be allowed for
launch vehicles and associated systems or subsystems, and creation of spaceports for
launching and receiving spacecraft. Beyond 49%, these activities will be under government
route. Up to 100% FDI under the automatic route would be permitted for manufacturing of components and systems/sub-
systems for satellites, ground segment and user segment. The Union Cabinet also approved the Ministry of Home Affairs’
proposal for continuation of the implementation of “Safety of Women” umbrella scheme with a financial outlay of Rs
1,179.72 crore for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26. Every year, about 5,000 personnel will be trained to prevent crimes
against women and children. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved the following amendments for FDI Sector
• Space sector: 100% FDI is allowed
• Satellite manufacturing & operation, satellite data products & ground/user segment:
- Up to 74% FDI under automatic route & under government route beyond 74%
• Launch vehicles & associated systems or subsystems, & creation of spaceports for launching & receiving spacecraft:
- Up to 49% FDI under automatic route & under government route beyond 49%
• Manufacturing of components & systems/sub-systems for satellites, ground segment & user segment:
- Up to 100% FDI under automatic route
• GoI approved continuation of implementation of “Safety of Women” umbrella scheme for 2021-22 to 2025-26
• Financial outlay of the scheme – Rs 1,179.72 Cr
• Minister of Home Affairs: Amit Shah | Constituency – Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of Home Affairs: Nityanand Rai, Ajay Kumar & Nisith Pramanik

45. Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, launched “Sikkim INSPIRES”
(Integrated Service Provision & Innovation for Revising Economics), a collaborative
effort between the Government of Sikkim and the World Bank aimed at fostering
economic growth and inclusion. The programme focuses on providing better economic
opportunities for women and youth through training and employment initiatives. It
marks the first direct partnership between the State government and the World Bank.
The initiative will engage 9 government departments over the next 5 years to create an
ecosystem for economic prosperity, emphasizing collaboration and capacity-building across various sectors. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prem Singh Tamang (Sikkim) – launched “Sikkim INSPIRES
• INSPIRES – Integrated Service Provision & Innovation for Revising Economics
• Sikkim INSPIRES – is a collaboration between Sikkim Govt & World Bank for fostering economic growth and inclusion
• It will engage 9 government departments over the next 5 years
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189
• Sikkim: Capital – Gangtok | CM – Prem Singh Tamang | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya

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46. Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, virtually
addressed the public launch event of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Global
Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH)”. He also urged the WHO-SEARO (Southeast Asia
Region) Director to implement the GIDH in the region. The GIDH is a WHO Managed
Network (‘Network of Networks’) which was unanimously adopted by all G20 countries.
The GIDH aims to consolidate and amplify recent and past gains in global digital health
while strengthening mutual accountability, and serving as a vehicle for implementing the Global Strategy on Digital Health
2020-2025, while enhancing the impact of future investments. The GIDH was initially launched by the WHO and the
Government of India during the G20 Health Ministerial Meeting in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in August 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Mansukh Mandaviya – virtually addressed public launch event of WHO’s GIDH
• GIDH – Global Initiative on Digital Health
• GIDH – is a WHO Managed Network (‘Network of Networks’) & it is unanimously adopted by all G20 countries
• Aim – to consolidate & amplify past gains in global digital health & serving as a vehicle for implementing Global
Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025
• WHO + GoI = launched GIDH during G20 Health Ministerial Meeting in Gandhinagar in August 2023
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Palitana, Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Bharati Pravin Pawar & S. P. Singh Baghel

47. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of multiple development
projects of more than Rs 9,750 crore concerning urban transport, health, rail and tourism sector in Haryana’s Rewari. The
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Gurugram Metro Rail project which will be developed with a total length of
28.5 km at a cost of about Rs 5,450 crore. Also, the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS),
Rewari, was laid at a cost of about Rs 1,650 crore. Established under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana
(PMSSY)’, AIIMS Rewari will provide comprehensive, quality and holistic tertiary care health services to the people of
Haryana. The Prime Minister also inaugurated a newly built Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra. This experiential
museum has been built at a cost of around Rs 240 crore. The Prime Minister also dedicated the Rohtak-Meham-Hansi rail
line (68 km). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated & laid foundation stone of multiple development projects in Haryana’s Rewari, including:
- Gurugram Metro Rail project (28.5 km) at Rs 5,450 Cr
- AIIMS, Rewari, at Rs 1,650 Cr under PMSSY
- Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar (experiential museum) in Kurukshetra, built at Rs 240 Cr
- Rohtak-Meham-Hansi rail line (68 km)
• AIIMS Rewari is established under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY)
• Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Manohar Lal Khattar | Governor – Bandaru Dattatraya

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48. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated an All India Institute of Medical Sciences
(AIIMS) in Gujarat’s Rajkot during his two-day visit to the state. The prime minister will also
virtually inaugurated 4 more AIIMS in Punjab’s Bathinda, Uttar Pradesh’s Raebareli, West
Bengal’s Kalyani and Andhra Pradesh’s Mangalgiri. The 5 AIIMS have been constructed at a
total cost of Rs 6315.23 Crore. The PM also inaugurated, laid foundation stone of, and
dedicated to the nation a total of 202 Health Care Infrastructure Projects worth more than
Rs 11,700 Crore across 23 States and UTs. These projects include National Institute of Naturopathy named ‘Nisarg Gram’ at
Pune, Maharashtra; Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy at Jhajjar, Haryana; 10 new Microbiology
Laboratories established by FSSAI across 8 states - Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Delhi, Andhra
Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi inaugurated 5 AIIMS in Feb 2024 (combined cost - Rs 6315.23 Cr):
- Rajkot, Gujarat
- Bathinda, Punjab
- Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh
- Kalyani, West Bengal
- Mangalgiri, Andhra Pradesh
• 202 Health Care Infrastructure Projects were also inaugurated across 23 States & UTs | Worth – Rs 11,700 Cr
- National Institute of Naturopathy named ‘Nisarg Gram’ at Pune, Maharashtra
- Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy at Jhajjar, Haryana
- 10 new Microbiology Laboratories (by FSSAI) – across UP, Kerala, MH, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Delhi, AP & TN

49. The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), under the aegis of Ministry of
New and Renewable Energy, has successfully commissioned India’s largest Battery
Energy Storage System (BESS) in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. The 40 MW (120MWh
BESS) with a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant has an installed capacity of 152.325 MW
hour (MWh) and dispatchable capacity of 100 MW AC. This project is estimated to save
tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The project has been constructed with
funding from the World Bank and Clean Technology Fund under ‘Innovation in Solar
Power & Hybrid Technologies Project’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SECI – successfully commissioned India’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh
• 120MWh (40MW) BESS has installed capacity of 152.325 MWh & dispatchable capacity of 100 MW AC
• World Bank + Clean Technology Fund = funded construction of project under ‘Innovation in Solar Power & Hybrid
Technologies Project’
• HQs of SECI – New Delhi | CMD – Rameshwar Prasad Gupta | Founded on – Sep 9, 2011

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50. Employees’ Provident Fund Organisa tion (EPFO) organised its monthly
district outreach program, called “Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0”, on February 27, 2024,
in more than 670 districts across India. To make things easier for EPS’95
pensioners, a special Pension Helpdesk will be set up where they can access
various services like submitting Digital Life Certificates (DLCs), making inquiries,
and getting their PPO handed over on the day of retirement under the PRAYAS
Yojna. Additionally, a service kiosk will be available to address grievances for
employees, employers, and pensioners on-the-spot, and to share information
with stakeholders. Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 is a monthly District Outreach Program of EPFO commenced in January 2023.
Under the program, District Camps are organised on 27th of every month. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• EPFO – organised its monthly district outreach program, called “Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0”, on Feb 27 across India
• A special Pension Helpdesk will be set up to make things easier for EPS’95 pensioners
• Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 commenced in January 2023 | It is organised on 27th of every month
• HQs of EPFO – New Delhi | CEO – Neelam Shami Rao | Established in – 1952

51. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is investigating domestic units of global
delivery companies, such as Germany’s DHL, US-based United Parcel Service (UPS) and
FedEx, for alleged collusion on discounts and tariffs. In October 2022, the Federation
of Indian Publishers complained that DHL, FedEx, UPS and Dubai’s Aramex were
deciding charges together and controlling customer discounts. Such actions violate
Indian antitrust laws. Reuters is first to report the details of the investigation. The
watchdog keeps confidential details of antitrust cases involving accusations of price
collusion and cartel actions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCI – probing domestic units of ‘DHL (Germany) + UPS & FedEx (US)’ for alleged collusion on discounts & tariffs
• In Oct 2022, Federation of Indian Publishers complained: DHL, FedEx, UPS & Aramex (Dubai) were deciding charges
together & controlling customer discounts
• HQs of CCI – New Delhi | Chairperson – Ravneet Kaur | DG – Atul Verma | Established in – 2003

52. Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur, launched 4
transformative portals aimed at fostering a more conducive business environment,
enhancing transparency in government communication, and providing easy access to
authentic government videos. The four portals are - Press Sewa Portal, Transparent
Empanelment Media Planning and eBilling System, NaViGate Bharat Portal, and
National Register for LCOs. The ‘Press Sewa Portal’, developed under the Press and
Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 (PRP Act, 2023), automates the process for
newspaper registration and related procedures. ‘Transparent Empanelment Media Planning and eBilling System’,
introduced for the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), streamlines media planning processes and provides an end-to-
end ERP solution for the media industry. Developed by the New Media Wing of the Ministry, ‘NaViGate Bharat Portal’
serves as a unified bilingual platform hosting videos on the government’s development and citizen welfare measures.
While the ‘National Register for LCOs’ aims to bring registration of Local Cable Operators (LCOs) under a centralized
system, promising a more organized cable sector. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• Anurag Singh Thakur – launched 4 transformative portals:
- Press Sewa Portal (developed under ‘PRP Act, 2023’ & automates process for newspaper registration)
- Transparent Empanelment Media Planning & eBilling System (introduced for CBC & streamlines media planning
processes)
- NaViGate Bharat Portal (developed by New Media Wing of MoIB & serves as a unified bilingual platform)
- National Register for LCOs (aims to bring registration of LCOs under a centralized system)
• Minister of Information & Broadcasting: Anurag Singh Thakur | Constituency – Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Information & Broadcasting: L. Murugan

53. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Arjun Munda, launched the joint “National level Project for Screening and Health
Management of tribal students through Ayurvedic Interventions” to benefit over 20,000 tribal students. The Ministry of
AYUSH, in collaboration with its Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), has undertaken this health
initiative for tribal students in partnership with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and ICMR-National Institute of Research in
Tribal Health (NIRTH), Jabalpur. It aims to cater to the healthcare requirements of students residing in Eklavya Model
Residential Schools (EMRS) across tribal areas in India. This project aims to benefit students aged 10-18 years enrolled in
classes 6th to 12th in 55 identified EMRS across 14 States of the country. The screenings will focus on identifying issues
such as Anaemia, Haemoglobinopathies, Malnutrition, and Tuberculosis. As part of this initiative, CCRAS developed 72
Poshan Vatikas in EMRS across 20 States. Ministry of Tribal Affairs is implementing the Central Sector Scheme of Eklavya
Model Residential School (EMRS) to provide quality education to tribal students in their own environment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arjun Munda – launched joint “National level Project for Screening & Health Management of tribal students through
Ayurvedic Interventions” to benefit over 20,000 tribal students
• CCRAS (Ministry of AYUSH) + MoTA + ICMR-NIRTH = undertaken this health initiative
• Aim – To benefit students (10-18 years) enrolled in classes 6th to 12th in 55 EMRS across 14 Indian states
• Screening will focus on identifying issues such as Anaemia, Haemoglobinopathies, Malnutrition & TB
• For this, CCRAS developed 72 Poshan Vatikas in Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) across 20 States
• EMRS – Central Sector Scheme implemented by MoTA to provide quality education to tribal students
• Minister of Tribal Affairs: Arjun Munda | Constituency – Khunti, Jharkhand
• MoS in Ministry of Tribal Affairs: Bharati Pravin Pawar & Bishweswar Tudu

54. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated two institutes of Ministry of AYUSH which will further promote holistic healthcare
scenario in India. The ‘Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy’ (CRIYN) at Jhajjar, Haryana, and the National
Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) titled ‘NISARG GRAM’ in Pune, Maharashtra, were inaugurated. These institutes utilize
diverse approaches such as hydrotherapy, massage, clinical nutrition, and yoga therapy to prevent and address emerging
healthcare challenges, especially the growing prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). PM Modi also
highlighted that the world’s first & only “WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM)” is being established in
Jamnagar, Gujarat. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated two institutes of Ministry of AYUSH
- ‘Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy’ (CRIYN) at Jhajjar, Haryana

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55. The Centre has issued three gazette notifications, informing that the three new criminal laws (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita,
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Act) will be effective from July 1, 2024. But it has put on hold
the provision related to ‘hit-and-run cases’ under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. The new laws were passed by Parliament in
the Winter Session. President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the three laws on December 25, 2023. The Government
has also decided to form a team of 3,000 officers who will train police officers, investigators and forensic experts to
implement the new laws across the country in a ‘zone-wise’ manner. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI issued three gazette notifications, informing about three new criminal laws to be effective from July 1, 2024:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita
- Bharatiya Sakshya Act
• GoI has put on hold the provision related to ‘hit-and-run cases’ under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita
• GoI to form a team of 3,000 officers to train police officers, investigators & forensic experts to implement new laws

56. Karnataka in collaboration with Coffee Board of India announced to train 1 lakh women
members of self help groups (SHGs) as coffee entrepreneurs in the state. Besides, 2,500 coffee
kiosks managed exclusively by SHG women will be set up at a cost of Rs 25 crore. Karnataka is
the largest producer of coffee accounting for over 70% of the 3.5 lakh tonnes produced in
India. Coffee is grown in over 2.46 lakh hectares in Karnataka, accounting for over half of the
total acreage in India. K G Jagadeesha is the CEO of Coffee Board of India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka + Coffee Board of India = to train 1 lakh women members of SHGs as coffee entrepreneurs in the state
• 2,500 coffee kiosks managed exclusively by SHG women will be set up at a cost of Rs 25 Cr
• Karnataka – largest producer of coffee accounting for over 70% of the 3.5 lakh tonnes produced in India
• Karnataka – grows Coffee in over 2.46 lakh hectares, accounting for over half of the total acreage in India
• HQs of Coffee Board of India – Bengaluru | CEO – K G Jagadeesha
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot

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International Affairs
57. The World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded the WHO’s first-ever certificates
validating progress in eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty acids to 5 countries,
during a ceremony at the WHO's headquarters in Geneva. The first 5 recipients were
Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia and Thailand. Certified countries will have to
submit updated data every 3 years to retain their status. To be eligible, countries must
implement best practice, and then back it up with rigorous monitoring and enforcement
systems. Seven countries implemented best practice policies in 2023 - Egypt, Mexico,
Moldova, Nigeria, North Macedonia, the Philippines and Ukraine. The WHO appealed in 2018 for industrially produced
fatty acids in foods to be eliminated worldwide by 2023. The target was not met and was extended to 2025. These fatty
acids cause 5,00,000 premature deaths every year. With this initiative, the WHO estimates, about 1,83,000 lives are being
saved in a year. Best practice on eliminating trans fat means either a mandatory national limit of 2 grammes of
industrially-produced trans fat per 100 grammes of total fat in all foods; or a national ban on the production or use of
partially-hydrogenated oils, which are a major source of trans fat. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – awarded 1st-ever certificates for progress in eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty acids to 5 countries
• The first 5 recipients were – Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia & Thailand
• 7 countries implemented best practice policies in 2023 – Egypt, Mexico, Moldova, Nigeria, North Macedonia,
Philippines & Ukraine
• WHO – appealed in 2018 for industrially produced fatty acids in foods to be eliminated by 2023 (Extended till 2025)
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948

58. The European Union (EU) launched a “European Ports Alliance” to harmonise methods in the fight against drug
smuggling and to combat the hubs’ infiltration by criminal groups. The initiative is inaugurated at Belgium’s Antwerp port,
the main gateway for cocaine into Europe. Europe’s major ports are currently dogged by violence from local mafias ready
to do anything to maintain the lucrative illegal trade. In the European Union, nearly 70% of drug seizures by customs
services are made in the bloc’s ports. The ports alliance aims to step up the sharing of information and models that work,
while mapping out drug flows and dismantling the criminal gangs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• EU – launched “European Ports Alliance” at Belgium’s Antwerp port
• Aim: To harmonise methods in fight against drug smuggling & to combat hubs’ infiltration by criminal groups
• HQs of EU – Brussels, Belgium | Member Countries – 27
• President of European Parliament – Roberta Metsola
• President of European Council – Charles Michel
• President of European Commission – Ursula von der Leyen

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59. On February 13, Dubai has signed agreements at the World Government
Summit 2024 to launch the world’s first air taxi service. The agreements pave
the way for Dubai to pioneer the deployment of a city-wide electric aerial taxi
service and vertiport network. The initiatives include the ‘Joby Aviation S4’, an
innovative aircraft designed to comfortably accommodate four passengers along
with a pilot. The S4 boasts a maximum range of 161 km and a top speed of 321
km per hour. Its Vertical take-off and landing capabilities render it ideal for
urban settings, minimizing the space requirements typical of conventional stations and reducing noise pollution compared
to helicopters. The air-taxi network will commence its operations in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Dubai's quest
to redefine urban mobility. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dubai – signed agreements at World Government Summit 2024 to launch world’s first air taxi service
• ‘Joby Aviation S4’ – an innovative aircraft designed to comfortably accommodate 4 passengers & a pilot
• It will have maximum range of 161 km & a top speed of 321 km per hour
• The air-taxi network will commence its operations in 2026
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

60. In February 2024, India and Bangladesh initiated the first trial movement of
vessels between Maia Port in West Bengal, India, and Sultanganj Port in
Bangladesh. This strategic move shifted 2.6 MTPA of export cargo to Bangladesh
from road to waterways, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and efficient
transport methods. The riverine link between Port of Call Maia in India and Port of
Call Sultanganj in Bangladesh covers a distance of 16 kilometers, with 4.5
kilometers in India and the remaining 11.5 kilometers in Bangladesh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + Bangladesh = initiated 1st trial movement of vessels
• The trial was conducted between Maia Port in West Bengal & Sultanganj Port in Bangladesh
• This riverine link covers a distance of 16 kilometers (4.5 km in India + 11.5 km in Bangladesh)
• Bangladesh – Dhaka – Taka | PM – Seikh Hasina | President – Mohammed Shahabuddin

61. The European Commission has recommended a new ‘2040 Climate Target’ for the European Union (EU). The new
target recommends the EU to slash its net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040. The Commission said the EU should
set an economy-wide 2040 target for 90% net greenhouse gas cuts compared with 1990 levels. The aim is to keep
European Union countries on track between the EU’s existing 2030 climate goal and its long-term aim of achieving net-
zero emissions by 2050. The EU had reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 33% in 2022, from 1990 levels. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• European Commission – recommended a new ‘2040 Climate Target’ for EU
• Target – to slash its net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 (compared with 1990 levels)
• EU’s long-term aim – achieving net-zero emissions by 2050
• EU – had reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 33% in 2022 (from 1990 levels)
• HQs of EU – Brussels, Belgium | Member Countries – 27
• President of European Parliament – Roberta Metsola

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62. Cameroon, a central African country, has adopted the “Nagoya Protocol on
Access and Benefit Sharing”, an international agreement that aims to ensure that
the benefits of using genetic resources and traditional knowledge are shared in a
fair and equitable way. The Nagoya Protocol is an offshoot of the Convention on
Biological Diversity that addresses fair and equitable benefit sharing in the context
of biodiversity access. Nagoya is a city located in Japan. Cameroon is a biodiversity
hotspot, with an estimated 11,000 plant, animal, and microorganism species. Many
of them contain useful genetic information or genetic resources, such as genes for
producing medicines or crops. ‘Prunus Africana’, a plant endemic to Cameroon, is used to make drugs for prostate cancer.
The bush mango is one of the many biological resources that Cameroon is trying to protect and benefit from, in line with
the Nagoya Protocol. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cameroon – adopted “Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing” (Nagoya is a city located in Japan)
• Aim – to ensure that benefits of using genetic resources & traditional knowledge are shared in a fair & equitable way
• Cameroon is a biodiversity hotspot, with an estimated 11,000 plant, animal, & microorganism species
• Cameroon – Yaounde – Central African CFA franc | President – Paul Biya

63. On February 21, Malta has become the 119th country to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA was
conceived as a joint effort by India and France to mobilize efforts against climate change through the deployment of solar
energy solutions. The idea of ISA was conceptualized on the sidelines of the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015. Currently, 116 countries are
signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Malta – became 119th country to join ISA | Currently, 116 countries are signatories to ISA Framework Agreement
• ISA – was conceived as a joint effort by India & France against climate change through solar energy solutions
• Idea of ISA was conceptualized on sidelines of COP21 to UNFCCC (held in Paris in 2015)
• Malta – Valletta – Euro | President – George Vella | PM – Robert Abela

64. India has pledged $1 million to the ‘Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund’ (also known as ‘IBSA Fund’) established by
India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA). The contribution, announced by India’s Permanent Representative to the United
Nations, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, underscores India’s commitment to fostering cooperation and development among
nations of the Global South. Established jointly in March 2004 and operational since 2006, the IBSA Facility for Poverty and
Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Fund) aims to identify and implement replicable and scalable projects in developing countries,
tailored to meet their national priorities while aligning with internationally agreed development goals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – pledged $1 million to ‘Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund’ (also known as ‘IBSA Fund’)
• It was established jointly by – India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA) in March 2004 & operational since 2006

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65. The Philippines has become the first Asian country to ratify the ‘Violence and
Harassment Convention 2019 (No. 190)’ to end workplace violence and harassment.
Philippines deposited the instrument of ratification of the ILO Convention with ILO
Deputy Director-General Celeste Drake. By depositing the instrument of ratification,
the Philippines becomes the 38th country in the world and the first Asian country to
ratify Convention No. 190. Convention No. 190 is the first international labor
standard to address violence and harassment in the world of work comprehensively. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Philippines – became the 1st Asian country to ratify the ‘Violence & Harassment Convention 2019 (No. 190)’ to end
workplace violence & harassment
• Philippines becomes the 38th country in the world to ratify ‘Convention No. 190’
• Philippines – Manila – Peso | President – Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

66. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), during the 5th Plenary session in Paris,
France, added Kenya and Namibia to its ‘Grey List’ of countries that need
increased monitoring, due to inadequate curbs against money laundering and
terrorism financing. While, Barbados, Gibraltar, Uganda, and the UAE were
removed from the Grey List as they showcased significant progress in addressing
the Anti-Money Laundering & Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT)
deficiencies. At present (February 2024), there are 23 countries mentioned on FATF’s ‘Grey List’, while only North Korea,
Iran and Myanmar are mentioned in the FATF’s ‘Black List’. The FATF Plenary meets 3 times a year. Elisa de Anda Madrazo
of Mexico is appointed as the next President of the FATF for a 2-year term, effective from July 1, 2024. T. Raja Kumar of
Singapore is the current President of the FATF from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• FATF – added Kenya & Namibia to its ‘Grey List’ during 5th Plenary session in Paris, France
• Barbados, Gibraltar, Uganda & UAE – removed from Grey List
• Currently, 23 countries are in ‘Grey List’ | 3 countries are in ‘Black List’ – North Korea, Iran & Myanmar
• Elisa de Anda Madrazo (Mexico) – appointed as next President of the FATF for 2 years (effective from July 1, 2024)
• HQs of FATF – Paris, France | President – T. Raja Kumar (Singapore) | Established – July 1989

67. The people-centric engagement took place at Joymoni, Bagerhat District, Bangladesh in February 2024, under the
‘Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Program’ supported by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and
Germany’s KfW Development Bank. The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) partnered with the Lokamata Rani Rashmoni Mission,
Joynagar (West Bengal), and WildTeam, Bangladesh, on the initiative. The project has been on since 2018-19. A cross-
border initiative, focused on harmonious coexistence with tigers in the Sunderbans, seeks to preserve biodiversity in both
India and Bangladesh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• People-centric engagement held under ‘Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Program’ at Joymoni, Bangladesh
• The program is supported by – IUCN & KfW Development Bank
• WTI + Lokamata Rani Rashmoni Mission, Joynagar (WB) + WildTeam, Bangladesh = partnered on the initiative
• Bangladesh – Dhaka – Taka | PM – Seikh Hasina | President – Mohammed Shahabuddin
• HQs of WTI – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | Chairman – G. V. Prasad | CEO – Rahul Kaul

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68. The United Nations has named 7 initiatives from across Africa, Latin America, the
Mediterranean and Southeast Asia as the intergovernmental organisation’s “World Restoration
Flagships”. The projects revolve around revival and preservation of ecosystems at the tipping
point of outright degradation caused by wildfires, drought, deforestation and pollution. The
award conferred by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN makes the initiatives eligible for technical and
financial support from the organisation. The campaign aims to prevent, halt and reverse the
degradation of ecosystems on every continent and in every ocean. The initiatives/projects that
were honoured are - ‘The Restoring Mediterranean Forests’ initiative (Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia & Türkiye), ‘The Living
Indus’ initiative (Pakistan), ‘The Accion Andina’ social movement (led by Peruvian conservation non-profit ECOAN; in
Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru), ‘The Sri Lanka Mangrove Regeneration’ initiative, ‘The Terai Arc Landscape’
initiative (Nepal), ‘Regreening Africa’s Agriculture’ initiative (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal,
Somalia), and ‘Growing forests in Africa’s Drylands’ initiative (Mali, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya). The winning
initiatives were announced ahead of the 6th session of the UN Environment Assembly, scheduled to take place from
February 26-March 1, 2024, at the UNEP headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UN – named 7 initiatives as intergovernmental organisation’s “World Restoration Flagships”
• These initiatives are from across Africa, Latin America, the Mediterranean & Southeast Asia
• The award is conferred by = UNEP + FAO
• The awards makes the initiatives eligible for technical & financial support from the organisation
• Aim of campaign – to prevent, halt & reverse degradation of ecosystems on every continent & in every ocean
• List of the initiatives that were honored:
- ‘The Restoring Mediterranean Forests’ initiative (Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia & Türkiye)
- ‘The Living Indus’ initiative (Pakistan)
- ‘The Accion Andina’ social movement (led by Peruvian conservation non-profit ECOAN; in Argentina, Bolivia,
Chile, Ecuador, Peru)
- ‘The Sri Lanka Mangrove Regeneration’ initiative
- ‘The Terai Arc Landscape’ initiative (Nepal)
- ‘Regreening Africa’s Agriculture’ initiative (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia)
- ‘Growing forests in Africa’s Drylands’ initiative (Mali, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya)
• 6th session of UN Environment Assembly – will take place in Nairobi, Kenya (UNEP HQs)
• HQs of UNEP – Nairobi, Kenya | Executive Director – Inger Andersen | Founded in – 1972

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69. Kosovo has secured visa-free access to the Schengen zone in Europe, world’s
largest zone of free movement. Kosovo became the last western Balkan non-
European Union (EU) nation to waive off visa requirements. The zone is known
after ‘Schengen’, the tiny Luxembourg village bordering France and Germany,
where the agreement was signed in 1985 among 5 of the 6 EU founding
members except Italy. Citizens of Kosovo can now enter the Schengen as tourists
for 90 days within 180 days. The Schengen Area is an area comprising 27
European countries that have officially abolished passports and many other
types of border control at their mutual borders. When the Schengen agreement
took effect in 1995, only seven of the entire 15 member union at the time joined
the passport-free area. Today, 23 of the 27 EU states are part of the passport-
free zone, excluding Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria and Ireland. Croatia joined
Schengen in 2023, while Romania and Bulgaria, will gain partial Schengen entry in March, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kosovo – has secured visa-free access to the Schengen zone in Europe, world’s largest zone of free movement
• Citizens of Kosovo can now enter the Schengen as tourists for 90 days within 180 days
• Kosovo – became last western Balkan non-EU nation to waive off visa requirements
• The zone is known after – ‘Schengen’, a tiny Luxembourg village bordering France & Germany
• In this village, the agreement was signed in 1985 among 5 of the 6 EU founding members (except Italy)
• Schengen Area – comprises 27 European countries that have abolished passports & other types of border control
• Today, 23 of the 27 EU states are part of the passport-free zone | Excluding – Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria & Ireland
• Schengen agreement took effect in 1995
• Romania & Bulgaria – will gain partial Schengen entry in March, 2024
• Kosovo – Pristinaa – Euro | President – Vjosa Osmani | PM – Albin Kurti

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Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs
70. According to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
the 8 core industries’ output growth declined in December 2023 to 14-month
low at 3.8%, much lower than 8.3% growth recorded in December 2022. The
8 core industries or key infrastructure sectors - Cement, Coal, Crude Oil,
Electricity, Fertilizers, Natural Gas, Refinery Products and Steel - comprise
40.27% of th e weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production
(IIP). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 8 core industries’ output growth declined to 14-month low in December 2023 – at 3.8%
• 8 core industries – Cement, Coal, Crude Oil, Electricity, Fertilizers, Natural Gas, Refinery Products & Steel
• Minister of Commerce & Industry: Piyush Goyal | Constituency – Maharashtra
• MoS in Ministry of Commerce & Industry: Anupriya Singh Patel & Som Parkash

71. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), an arm of World Bank, has unveiled a groundbreaking
7-year $100 million Plastic Waste Reduction-Linked Bond. This innovative financial instrument ties investor returns to
Plastic Waste Collection Credits, Plastic Waste Recycling Credits, and Voluntary Carbon Units expected to be generated by
projects in Ghana and Indonesia. The selected projects aim to reduce and recycle plastic waste in vulnerable communities,
addressing the global challenge of plastics leaking into nature and oceans. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IBRD (arm of World Bank) – unveiled a 7-year $100 million Plastic Waste Reduction-Linked Bond
• The selected projects in Ghana & Indonesia aim to reduce and recycle plastic waste in vulnerable communities
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189

72. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced a new rule
that allows customers to transfer up to Rs 5 lakh without the need to add beneficiary
details such as account numbers or IFSC codes. Under the new simplified rules, users
can initiate a transaction using just the recipient’s mobile number and the name of
their bank via Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), effective from February 1, 2024.
This streamlines the process makes it quicker and reduces the risk of errors
associated with entering detailed beneficiary information. The updated system is designed to be user-friendly, with
remitter banks expected to maintain a mapping of member bank names with default MMID (Mobile Money Identification
Number) and undertake necessary UI/UX enhancements to facilitate this new method of fund transfer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NPCI – introduced a new rule that allows customers to transfer up to Rs 5 lakh without beneficiary details
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Biswamohan Mahapatra | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008

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73. India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime delivered its second-highest monthly revenues of Rs 1,72,129 crore in
January 2024, as per data released by the Finance Ministry. In April 2023, GST collections had crossed a record Rs 1.87 lakh
crore, the highest ever, aided by year-end compliances. Of January’s GST intake so far, the government has settled Rs
43,552 crore to the Central GST pool and Rs 37,257 crore to the State GST pool from the Integrated GST collections during
the month. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GST regime – delivered its second-highest monthly revenues of Rs 1,72,129 Cr in Jan 2024
• April 2023 – highest GST collection ever with Rs 1.87 lakh Cr
• Minister of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaowdhary & Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad

74. On February 1, the government has decided to consolidate the demand

of the three Armed Services in the capital head of the defence budget based
on similar items of expenditure such as land, aircraft and aircraft engines,
heavy and medium vehicles and others. Total allocation for Defence Ministry
stands at Rs 6.2 lakh crore for 2024-25, which is 13.04% of the total Union
Budget. It is 4.72% higher than the Budget Estimates and marginally lower by
0.38% from the Revised Estimates for 2023-24. For FY 24-25, the Defence
budget is increased by approximately 1 lakh crore (18.35%) compared to FY
2022-23. Of the Rs 6.2 lakh crore, Rs 1.72 lakh crore (27.67%) goes to capital, 14.82% for revenue expenditure, 30.68% for
pay and allowances, 22.72% for defence pensions and 4.11% for civil organisations under MoD. Rs 6,500 crore earmarked
to strengthen border infrastructure. Rs 7,651.80 crore is allocated to Indian Coast Guard (ICG), while Rs 23,855 crore is
allocated to Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a
new Rs 1 lakh crore corpus for Deep Tech for long term loan to youth/companies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Govt decided to consolidate demand of 3 Armed Services in defence budget
• Total allocation for Defence Ministry – Rs 6.2 lakh Cr for 2024-25 (13.04% of total Union Budget)
• For FY 24-25, Defence budget is increased by approx 1 lakh crore (18.35%) compared to FY 2022-23
• Of the Rs 6.2 lakh crore:
- 27.67% (Rs 1.72 lakh Cr) for Capital
- 14.82% for Revenue Expenditure
- 30.68% for Pay & Allowances
- 22.72% for Defence Pensions
- 4.11% for Civil Organisations
- Rs 6,500 Cr for Border Infrastructure
- Rs 7,651.80 Cr is allocated to ICG
- Rs 23,855 Cr is allocated to DRDO
- Rs 1 lakh Cr for Deep Tech for long term loan to youth/companies
• Minister of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaowdhary & Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad

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75. The government has pegged disinvestment target for 2024-25 fiscal at Rs 50,000 crore in the interim budget for 2024-
25, up from Rs 30,000 crore in the revised estimate for the current financial year. Disinvestment target of Rs 51,000 crore
was budgeted at the time of presentation of Budget last year. So far in the current fiscal, the government has collected Rs
12,504 crore through minority stake sale in 7 CPSEs, including Coal India, NHPC, RVNL and IREDA. As per the Interim
Budget 2024-25 tabled in the Lok Sabha, the government is not expected to receive any money from monetisation of
public assets in the current fiscal. The highest ever mop-up from disinvestment at Rs 1,00,056 crore was recorded in 2017-
18, marginally exceeding the budget target of Rs 1 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Govt pegged disinvestment target for 2024-25 fiscal at Rs 50,000 Cr in budget for 2024-25, up from Rs 30,000 Cr
• In current fiscal, govt has collected Rs 12,504 Cr through minority stake sale in 7 CPSEs
• Highest ever collection from disinvestment – at Rs 1,00,056 Cr (2017-18) against budget target of Rs 1 lakh Cr

76. The Reserve Bank Of India’s “Digital Payments Index for September 2023” stood at 418.77, as opposed to 395.57 in
March 2023. This index captures the extent of digitisation of payments across the country. The index has recorded growth
across all sectors and was driven particularly by payments across the country. Digital payments across the country
registered a growth of 10.94% in a year through March 2023. The value of payments done via UPI in December was over
Rs 18.2 lakh crore, up from Rs 12.8 lakh crore a year ago. The index comprises five broad parameters that enable the
measurement of the depth and penetration of digital payments in India - Payment Enablers (25%); Payment Infrastructure
- Demand-side factors (10%); Payment Infrastructure - Supply-side factors (15%); Payment Performance (45%); and
Consumer Centricity (5%). The central bank has been publishing this index since January 2021, with March 2018 as the
base of 100. The index is published on a semi-annual basis beginning from March 2021 with a lag of 4 months. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – launched “Digital Payments Index for September 2023”
• The index is stood at 418.77, as opposed to 395.57 in March 2023
• Digital payments across country registered a growth of 10.94% in a year through March 2023
• Value of payments done via UPI in December was over Rs 18.2 lakh Cr, up from Rs 12.8 lakh Cr a year ago
• Index has five broad parameters that enable measurement of depth & penetration of digital payments in India:
- Payment Enablers (25%)
- Payment Infrastructure - Demand-side factors (10%)
- Payment Infrastructure - Supply-side factors (15%)
- Payment Performance (45%)
- Consumer Centricity (5%)
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

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77. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has presented the ‘Interim Union Budget
2024-2025’, becoming only the 2nd Finance Minister to present 6 budgets in a row.
Morarji Desai was the first Finance Minister to present 6 budgets in a row. This time,
Ministry of Defence has received the highest share in the with an allocation of Rs 6.2
lakh Cr. On the other hand, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has
received the lowest allocation out of all the sectors at Rs 1.27 lakh Cr. Followed by
the defence ministry, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has received the
second-highest allocation at Rs 2.78 lakh Cr and the Railway Ministry is allocated Rs
2.55 lakh Cr. Moreover, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution is
allocated Rs 2.13 lakh Cr, Ministry of Home Affairs is allocated Rs 2.03 lakh Cr,
Ministry of Rural Development is allocated Rs 1.77 lakh Cr, Ministry of Chemicals and
Fertilizers is allocated Rs 1.68 lakh Cr, and Ministry of Communications is allocated
Rs 1.37 lakh Cr. Among the allocations for major flagship schemes, Mahatma Gandhi
National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is allocated Rs 86,000
Cr, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is allocated Rs 80,671 Cr, Ayushman Bharat
(PMJAY) is allocated Rs 7,500 Cr, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme is allocated Rs 6,200 Cr, Modified Programme
for Development of semi-conductors and display manufacturing ecosystem is allocated Rs 6,903 Cr, Solar Power (Grid) is
allocated Rs 8,500 Cr, & National Green Hydrogen Mission is allocated Rs 600 Cr. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the “Interim Budget 2024” on Feb 1, 2024
• She became only the 2nd Finance Minister to present 6 budgets in a row (1st FM to do so - Morarji Desai)
• Allocations for different ministries:
- Ministry of Defence: Rs 6.2 lakh Cr (highest allocation)
- Ministry of Road Transport and Highways: Rs 2.78 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Railways: Rs 2.55 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution: Rs 2.13 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Home Affairs: Rs 2.03 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Rural Development: Rs 1.77 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers: Rs 1.68 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Communications: Rs 1.37 lakh Cr
- Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare: Rs 1.27 lakh Cr (lowest allocation)
• Allocations for major flagship schemes:
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS): Rs 86,000 Cr
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Rs 80,671 Cr
- Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY): Rs 7,500 Cr
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Rs 6,200 Cr
- Modified Programme for Development of semi-conductors and display manufacturing ecosystem: Rs 6,903 Cr
- Solar Power (Grid): Rs 8,500 Cr
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Rs 600 Cr

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78. Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra announced that the Union government expects to collect up to Rs 140 billion or Rs
14,000 Crore ($1.7 billion) in Goods and Services Tax (GST) in next financial year FY 2024-25 by taxing online gambling
companies. The government, in October 2023, imposed a 28% tax on funds that online gaming companies collect from
their customers for every bet. The 28% GST announced by the Council is applicable on entry level and not the winnings.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI expects to collect up to Rs 140 billion in GST in FY 2024-25 by taxing online gambling companies
• GoI imposed a 28% tax on funds that online gaming companies collect from their customers for every bet
• This GST is applicable on entry level and not the winnings

79. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her Budget speech, announced that the
Centre would reduce its fiscal deficit to 5.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024-25. She
further added that the fiscal deficit would be pared to below 4.5% of GDP by 2025-26. The
government’s revised estimates also lowered the fiscal deficit projection for 2023-24 to 5.8% of
GDP. Fiscal deficit refers to the shortfall in a government’s revenue when compared to its
expenditure. When a government’s expenditure exceeds its revenues, the government will have
to borrow money or sell assets to fund the deficit. In 2024-25, the government’s total revenue is estimated to be Rs 30.8
lakh crore. On the other hand, the government’s total expenditure is estimated to be Rs 47.66 lakh crore. In order to fund
its fiscal deficit, the government mainly borrows money from the bond market where lenders compete to lend to the
government by purchasing bonds issued by the government. In 2024-25, the Centre is expected to borrow a gross amount
of Rs 14.13 lakh crore from the market. The fiscal deficit recently reached a high of 9.17% of GDP during the pandemic and
has since improved significantly and is projected to drop to 5.8% in 2023-24. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Some Key highlights of Budget Speech, announced by Nirmala Sitharaman:
- GoI would reduce its fiscal deficit to 5.1% of GDP in 2024-25 & below 4.5% of GDP by 2025-26
- GoI also lowered the fiscal deficit projection for 2023-24 to 5.8% of GDP
- GoI’s total revenue is estimated to be Rs 30.8 lakh crore in 2024-25 & expenditure is estimated at Rs 47.66 lakh
Cr
- GoI is expected to borrow Rs 14.13 lakh Cr from the market in 2024-25

80. Direct tax-to-GDP ratio will be 6.6% in the current fiscal FY 2023-24,
according to Nitin Gupta, Chairman, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). It
will be the highest in the 10 years of Modi Government and only the fourth
time in the last 23 years when the ratio will exceed 6%. For FY24, direct tax
collections have been revised to Rs 19.45-lakh crore, showing a growth of over
17%. For FY25, the growth estimate is 13.1% with the total collection at Rs
21.99-lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• According to Chairman of CBDT Nitin Gupta:
- Direct tax-to-GDP ratio will be 6.6% in current fiscal FY 2023-24
- For FY24, direct tax collections have been revised to Rs 19.45-lakh Cr (growth of over 17%)
- For FY25, direct tax collections have been revised to Rs 21.99-lakh Cr (growth of 13.1%)
• HQs of CBDT – New Delhi | Chairman – Nitin Gupta | Formed in – 1944

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81. Indian Overseas Bank’s (IOB) market capitalization crossed the Rs 1 lakh crore mark for the
first time following a 100% rally in the stock over the last 6 months. IOB is the 5 th public lender
after the State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank (PNB), and Union
Bank of India to cross the market capitalization of Rs 1 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IOB – 5th public sector bank to cross market capitalization of Rs 1 lakh Cr
• 1st – SBI | 2nd – BoB | 3rd – PNB | 4th – UBI
• HQs of IOB – Chennai, TN | MD & CEO – Ajay Kumar Srivastava | Tagline – “Good people to grow with”

82. LIC Mutual Fund Asset Management announced the appointment of Ravi Kumar Jha as its Managing
Director and Chief Executive Officer, with effect from January 31, 2024. Prior to this appointment, Jha
was serving the company as Executive Director - Corporate Strategy. He has 30 years of experience in
handling diverse positions at LIC of India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ravi Kumar Jha – appointed as MD & CEO of LIC Mutual Fund
• HQs of LIC Mutual Fund – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Ravi Kumar Jha

83. State Bank of India (SBI) has partnered with Flywire Corporation to revolutionise the landscape of international
education payments for Indian students. This strategic partnership aims to simplify the traditionally complex payment
process, offering students a seamless and fully digital experience. Integrated directly into SBI’s platform, Flywire’s
technology would enable Indian students to complete their international education payments effortlessly in Indian rupees.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI + Flywire Corp = partnered to revolutionise landscape of international education payments for Indian students
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
• MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

84. HDFC Bank introduced 4 new business credit cards - BizFirst, BizGrow, BizPower,
and BizBlack, to expand its card business and reach small and medium-sized
businesses (SME). The business credit card range offers an interest-free credit cycle
of 55 days, savings on core business spends like utility bills, GST, income tax, vendor
payments, business travel, and business productivity tools. Freelancers/GIG workers
is a new emerging segment in self-employed category and HDFC Bank will launch
GIGA Business Credit Card shortly, catering to specific needs of this segment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank introduced 4 new business credit cards – BizFirst, BizGrow, BizPower, and BizBlack
• HDFC Bank – will launch GIGA Business Credit Card shortly, catering to specific needs of Freelancers/GIG workers
• HQs of HDFC Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan | Tagline – “We understand your World”

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85. Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) signed an MoU with Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB) to facilitate
farmers and traders in providing low interest rate loans. The MoU was signed with the intent of promoting awareness to
fund against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt). The MoU is aimed to provide information to depositors
of the benefits, besides doing further outreach activities to improve agricultural pledge finance in India. Under agriculture
sector, up to Rs 75 lakh and for other category borrowers, up to Rs 5 Crore loans are extended. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WDRA + Punjab & Sind Bank = an MoU to facilitate farmers & traders in providing low interest rate loans
• Aim – promoting awareness to fund against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt)
• Loan limit for agriculture sector – Rs. 75 Lakh | For other category borrowers – Rs 5 Cr
• HQs of WDRA – New Delhi | Chairman – T K Manoj Kumar
• HQs of Punjab & Sind Bank – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Swarup Kumar Saha

86. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has appointed Ajay Kumar Choudhary as an
Independent Director and Non-executive Chairman of its board for 3 years. Choudhary, who is a central
banker, has a career spanning over three decades at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He concluded his
service as RBI’s executive director in October 2023. He succeeds Biswamohan Mahapatra, who previously
served as the non-executive chairman of NPCI. Incorporated in 2008, NPCI operates retail payments and
settlements systems in the country, including RuPay card, Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), Unified Payments Interface
(UPI), Aadhaar-Enabled Payment System (AePS), and Bharat BillPay, among other facilities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ajay Kumar Choudhary – appointed as Independent Director & Non-executive Chairman of NPCI’s board for 3 years
• He succeeded – Biswamohan Mahapatra
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Ajay Kumar Choudhary | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008

87. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to introduce additional functionalities of programmability
in Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Retail Payments to facilitate transactions for
specific/targeted purposes, and allow offline capability to enable these transactions in areas with
poor or limited Internet connectivity. Currently, the CBDC Retail (CBDC-R) pilot also allows Person
to Person (P2P) and Person to Merchant (P2M) transactions using Digital Rupee wallets provided
by 8 pilot banks - SBI, ICICI Bank, Yes Bank, IDFC First Bank, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India,
HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra bank. Programmability will permit users to ensure that payments are made for defined
benefits. For offline functionality, multiple offline solutions across hilly areas, rural and urban locations will be tested for
this purpose. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – plans to introduce additional functionalities of programmability in CBDC Retail Payments
• Aim – facilitate transactions for specific/targeted purposes, & allow offline capability to enable these transactions in
areas with poor or limited Internet connectivity
• CBDC Retail (CBDC-R) pilot – allows P2P & P2M transactions using Digital Rupee wallets
• Digital Rupee wallets are provided by 8 pilot banks – SBI, ICICI Bank, Yes Bank, IDFC First Bank, BoB, UBI, HDFC Bank
& Kotak Mahindra bank
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

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88. Two fintech startups Juspay and Decentro have received the final licence from the RBI to
operate as Payment Aggregators. They will join the likes of Razorpay, Cashfree, Zomato and
others who got the licence earlier. Software as a service startup Zoho also got the Payment
Aggregator licence. Zoho is the first enterprise Saas player to get the payment aggregator nod
from the RBI. Both bank and non-bank providers need RBI’s authorization to get a payment
aggregator license. The entity must have a minimum net worth of Rs 15 Crore, which should
increase to Rs 25 Crore within 3 years of its operation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Juspay, Zoho & Decentro – received licence from the RBI to operate as Payment Aggregators
• Zoho – is 1st enterprise Saas player to get the payment aggregator nod from RBI
• Entity must have a minimum net worth of Rs 15 Cr, which should increase to Rs 25 Cr within 3 years of its operation
• HQs of Juspay – Bengaluru | CEO – Vimal Kumar
• HQs of Zoho – Chennai | Founder & CEO – Sridhar Vembu
• HQs of Decentro – Bengaluru | Founder & CEO – Rohit Taneja

89. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the remuneration ceiling of Non Executive Directors
(NEDs) of banks from Rs 20 lakh per annum to Rs 30 lakh to attract better talent and ensure corporate
governance. It said banks are required to have suitable criteria for granting fixed remuneration to its
NEDs, with the approval of its Board before any review of the extant remuneration. The instructions
are applicable to all private sector banks including Small Finance Banks, Payment Banks and also the
wholly owned subsidiaries of foreign banks. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – increased remuneration ceiling of NEDs of banks from Rs 20 lakh per annum to Rs 30 lakh
• Instructions are applicable to all PSBs including SFBs, Payment Banks & wholly owned subsidiaries of foreign banks
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

90. HDFC Bank has raised $300 million through its first ever Sustainable Finance Bond issue. The fund raise is part of an
overall raise of $750 million through Regulation S Bonds. HDFC Bank has raised $300 million for 3 years with a 95 bps
spread over US Treasury, and another $450 million for 5 years with a 108 bps spread over US Treasury. The proceeds of
the sustainable finance bond will be utilised for funding green and social loans, and towards financing general banking
activities. The bonds will be listed on India International Exchange (India INX) in Gift IFSC. The paper was rated Baa3
(stable) by Moody’s and BBB- (stable) by S&P. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank – raised $300 million through its 1st ever Sustainable Finance Bond issue
• HDFC Bank has raised overall $750 million through Regulation S Bonds:
- $300 million for 3 years with a 95 bps spread over US Treasury
- $450 million for 5 years with a 108 bps spread over US Treasury
• The bonds will be listed on – India International Exchange (India INX) in Gift IFSC
• The paper was rated – Baa3 (stable) by Moody’s and BBB- (stable) by S&P
• HQs of HDFC Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan | Tagline – “We understand your World”

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91. The RBI’s 6th Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to keep the policy Repo Rate under the liquidity
adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 6.50%, for the 6th consecutive time. Other rates are kept unchanged, including
Reverse Repo Rate at 3.35%, Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) Rate at 6.25%, Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate or Bank
Rate at 6.75%, Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 4.50%, and Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) at 18%. Consumer Price Index (CPI)
inflation or retail inflation is projected at 5.4% for FY24 (2023-24). The medium- term target for Consumer Price Index (CPI)
inflation is set at 4% within a band of +/- 2%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Key highlights of RBI’s 6th Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) held in February 2024:
• RBI’s MPC has 6 members (3 from RBI + 3 from GoI) & MPC Meeting was headed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
• Latest rates:
- Repo rate – 6.50% | Reverse Repo Rate – 3.35% | Bank Rate or MSF – 6.75%
- CRR – 4.50% | SLR – 18% | SDF – 6.25%
• CPI Inflation forecast for FY24 – retained at 5.4%
• The medium-term target for CPI inflation – set at 4% within a band of +/- 2%

92. India’s neighbourhood received a substantial share of the annual allocation under the Ministry of External Affairs for
the 2024-25 Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Out of all the countries in the
neighbourhood, Bhutan has received the highest share of Rs 2,398.97 Crore as allocation for the current fiscal year, while
Maldives has received an allocation of Rs 700.90 Crore, the second highest. Nepal has received Rs 650 Crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bhutan – received the highest share of Rs 2,398.97 Cr as allocation from India in Interim Budget 2024-25
• 2nd – Maldives (Rs 700.90 Cr) | 3rd – Nepal (Rs 650 Cr)
• Bhutan – Thimphu – Bhutanese Ngultrum | PM – Tshering Tobgay | Monarch – Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

93. According to the Quarterly Bulletin, “Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) of October-December 2023” released by the
National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), the unemployment rate in urban areas in the 15 years and above category in the
October-December quarter of 2023 declined marginally to 6.5%, lower than the 6.6% in the July-September period. For
males in the 15+ years category, the rate eased to 5.8% in the Oct-Dec quarter, while it was 8.6% for females. Labour
Force Participation Rate (LFPR), the percentage of persons in the labour force in the population, improved to 49.9% in the
Oct-Dec quarter. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSSO – released “Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) of Oct-Dec 2023”
• Unemployment rate in urban areas (15+ years category) – declined to 6.5% (Jul-Sep - 6.6%)
• For Males – 5.8% | Females – 8.6% | LFPR – improved to 49.9%
• HQs of NSSO – New Delhi | DG – Geeta Singh Rathore (under Ministry of Statistics & Program Implementation)

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94. One 97 Communications Limited, the owner of Paytm, announced the formation of a Group
Advisory Committee chaired by M Damodaran, former Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI). The committee will work closely with the Board of Directors to further strengthen
compliance and regulatory matters. The 3-member committee includes former President of the
Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) MM Chitale and former Chairman & MD of Andhra
Bank R Ramachandran. The announcement came after the RBI’s action against Paytm’s banking arm. In January, the RBI
ordered Paytm Payments Bank to suspend its deposits or top-ups in customer accounts, wallets, FASTags and other
instruments after February 29. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• One 97 Communications Ltd – formed a Group Advisory Committee to strengthen compliance & regulatory matters
• The 3-member committee will be chaired by – M Damodaran (former Chairman of SEBI)
• Other 2 members – MM Chitale (President of ICAI) & R Ramachandran (CMD of Andhra Bank)
• HQs of One97 Communications – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | CEO – Vijay Shekhar Sharma

95. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) raised the interest rate on
provident fund deposit to 8.25% for 2023-24 compared to 8.15% in the preceding
year and 8.10% in 2021-22. This is on the back of strong financial returns for EPFO
this year, including its investments in equity, and almost negligible Covid withdrawals.
The central board of trustees of EPFO, headed by the Labour and Employment
Minister Bhupender Yadav, gave this approval at the 235th board meeting of EPFO.
The interest rate of 8.25% will be applicable on voluntary provident Fund (VPF)
deposits as well. The Employees’ Provident Fund is a mandatory contribution for
salaried employees in organisations with 20 or more workers. Under the EPF&MP Act, an employee contributes 12% of his
wages to the EPF account on a monthly basis and a matching contribution is made by the employer. While the employees’
full contribution is deposited to the EPF account, only 3.67% of the employer share is deposited to the EPF account and
the balance 8.33% goes towards the Employees Pension Scheme (EPS). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• EPFO – raised interest rate on PF deposit to 8.25% for 2023-24 (from 8.15% in 2022-23)
• This interest rate will be applicable on Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) deposits as well
• EPF is a mandatory contribution for salaried employees in organisations with 20 or more workers
• Under EPF&MP Act, an employee contributes 12% of his wages & a matching contribution is made by the Employer
• Only 3.67% of the employer share is deposited to the EPF account & the balance 8.33% goes towards EPS Scheme
• HQs of EPFO – New Delhi | CEO – Neelam Shami Rao | Established in – 1952

96. Payments solution provider, PayU, collaborated with National Payments Corporation of
India (NPCI) to launch the ‘Credit Lines on UPI’ feature on its platform, which will create
avenues of financial security and growth for the merchants. The integration will enable pre-
sanctioned credit lines by banks through UPI, empowering businesses and consumers. The
company anticipates over 380 million UPI users to gain easier access to Credit Line as it
expects the next leap in digital payments is from credit. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PayU + NPCI = collaborated to launch the ‘Credit Lines on UPI’ feature on PayU’s platform
• The integration will enable pre-sanctioned credit lines by banks through UPI

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97. On February 15, City Union Bank (CUB) has won 7 awards in
various categories in the recently concluded 19th ‘Banking
Technology Conference, Expo & Citations 2023’ by the Indian Banks
Association (IBA) in Mumbai. The CUB was named winner in 3
categories - Best AI & ML Bank, Best Fintech & DPI Adoption, and
Best Financial Inclusion. While in other categories, it was named
runner-up. Moreover, South Indian Bank (SIB) was honoured with
the title of “Best Technology Bank of the Year Award” at the 19th
IBA Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo, & Citations.
Also, SIB was named across various categories including - Best Tech Talent and Organisation, Best IT Risk and
Management; and so on. The IBA Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations has been an annual event
since its inception in 2005. Instituted by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), it recognises organisations that have brought
in transformational changes in their businesses by adopting modern digital solutions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 19th ‘Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations 2023’ was conducted by – IBA in Mumbai
• City Union Bank – won 7 awards in various categories (3 Winners & 4 Runner Ups)
• CUB was winner in 3 categories – Best AI & ML Bank, Best Fintech & DPI Adoption, & Best Financial Inclusion
• “Best Technology Bank of the Year Award” was given to – South Indian Bank
• IBA Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations – an annual event started in 2005
• HQs of CUB – Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu | CEO – Dr. N. Kamakodi
• HQs of SIB – Thrissur, Kerala | Chairman – V. J. Kurian | MD & CEO – P. R. Seshadri
• HQs of IBA – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Atul Kumar Goel | Established in – 1946

98. Germany overtook Japan as the 3rd-biggest economy. Japan, once poised to become the world’s largest economy, fell
to 4th place behind Germany last year. Despite growing 1.9%, Japan’s nominal 2023 gross domestic product (GDP) in dollar
terms was $4.2 trillion, compared with $4.5 trillion for Germany. The change in positions primarily reflects the sharp fall in
the yen against the dollar. Currently, India is placed at the 5th place with the size of its economy at over $3.7 trillion,
according to IMF’s data. India is set to become the 3rd largest economy in the world by 2030, according to S&P Global’s
data released in December 2023. The US is the world’s biggest economy with around $27 trillion, followed by China ($17.7
trillion). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Germany ($4.5 trillion GDP) – Overtook Japan ($4.2 trillion GDP) & became 3rd-biggest economy
• India ($3.7 trillion GDP) – 5th largest GDP (to become 3rd largest economy by 2030)
• 1st – US ($27 trillion) | 2nd – China ($17.7 trillion)
• Germany – Berlin – Euro | President – Frank-Walter Steinmeier | Chancellor – Olaf Scholz
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

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99. LIC has introduced a new plan called “Amritbaal” designed to meet expenses related to a child’s higher education. The
plan is an individual, savings, life insurance plan specifically tailored to accumulate a corpus for meeting the higher
education and other needs of the child. It offers guaranteed additions at the rate of Rs 80 per thousand basic sum assured
at the end of each policy year from the inception till the end of the policy term. The plan has a minimum entry age of 0
years and a maximum entry age of 13 years. The minimum age at maturity is 18 years, while the maximum age at maturity
is 25 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• LIC – introduced a new plan, “Amritbaal,” to meet expenses related to a child’s higher education
• It offers guaranteed additions at rate of Rs 80 per thousand basic sum assured each policy year till end of policy term
• Entry age: minimum – 0 years, maximum – 13 years | Maturity age: minimum – 18 years, maximum – 25 years
• HQs of LIC – Mumbai | Chairman – Siddhartha Mohanty | Founded in – 1956 | Tagline – ‘Yogakshemam Vahamyaham’
• 4 MDs of LIC – R. Doraiswamy, Sat Pal Bhanoo, Tablesh Pandey & M. Jagannath

100. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched the “AIIMS-SBI Smart
Payment Card”, which is aimed at providing hassle-free payments for treatment at
the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. AIIMS Smart Payment Card
will resolve the long pending issue of patients from far-flung areas carrying cash with
them to the hospital. Patients or their caretakers can get the card easily from the
facilitation centres across AIIMS, New Delhi and thereafter use it for payment at
various counters. Soon, the services of these cards will be extended across all the AIIMS in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mansukh Mandaviya – launched “AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card”
• Aim – providing hassle-free payments for treatment at AIIMS, Delhi (Soon to be launched across all AIIMS in India)
• Director of AIIMS, Delhi – M. Srinivas
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
• MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

101. In February 2024, PM Narendra Modi launched India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Mauritius and Sri Lanka.
Besides, the RuPay card service was also launched in Mauritius. With this, African nation Mauritius becomes the first
country outside Asia to issue cards using RuPay technology. Indian RuPay cards will also be accepted at ATMs and PoS
terminals in Mauritius. Indians visiting Mauritius and Sri Lanka can now use the UPI system to pay using their mobile
phones. These projects have been developed and executed by NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), along with
partner banks and non-banks from Mauritius and Sri Lanka, under the guidance and support of the RBI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – launched India’s UPI in Mauritius and Sri Lanka | RuPay card service – was also launched in Mauritius
• Mauritius – became 1st country outside Asia to issue cards using RuPay technology
• Indian RuPay cards will also be accepted at ATMs and PoS terminals in Mauritius
• Mauritius – Port Louis – Mauritian Rupee | PM – Pravind Kumar Jugnauth
• Sri Lanka – Colombo/Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte – Sri Lankan Rupee
• PM – Dinesh Gunawardena | President – Ranil Wickremesinghe

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102. The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has unveiled the
report of the impact assessment of the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS),
“Prabhaav”, a key component of the startups. The third-party assessment of the
scheme was undertaken by CRISIL, which is India’s premier analytics company and
pioneer of AIF benchmarking in the country. Funds of Fund for Start Ups (FFS)
under the Startup India Action Plan, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in
2016, is today one of the flagship programmes of Department for Promotion of
Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The
scheme is being managed by SIDBI on behalf of, and under the overall guidance and direction of DPIIT. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SIDBI – unveiled the report of impact assessment of Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), “Prabhaav”
• The third-party assessment of the scheme was undertaken by – CRISIL
• FFS – was launched by PM Modi in 2016 under Startup India Action Plan & one of the flagship programmes of DPIIT
• The scheme is being managed by – SIDBI on behalf of DPIIT
• HQs of DPIIT – New Delhi | Secretary – Anurag Jain | DPIIT works under – Ministry of Commerce & Industry
• HQs of SIDBI – Lucknow, UP | MD & Chairman – Sivasubramanian Ramann | Established in – 1990

103. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken strong action to stop unauthorised payments through
business cards, saying that it has observed that one card network has arrangements to allow
such payments through intermediaries. India currently has 5 card networks: Visa, Mastercard,
RuPay, American Express, and Diner’s Club. On February 14, Visa had been asked by the RBI to
stop any such incremental transactions until further notice. Under this arrangement, referred to
as Business Payment Solution Providers (BPSP), an intermediary accepts commercial card
payments from corporates & then remits the funds via IMPS, RTGS or NEFT to non-card-accepting recipients. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – stopped unauthorized payments through business cards
• RBI – asked Visa to stop any such incremental transactions until further notice
• India currently has 5 card networks – Visa, Mastercard, RuPay, American Express, & Diner’s Club
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

104. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) released draft regulations for a digital
marketplace called “Bima Sugam - Insurance Electronic Marketplace”. The platform aims to bring together insurers,
policyholders, and intermediaries, facilitating the sale, purchase, and servicing of life, health, and general insurance
policies, along with claim settlement and grievance redressal. The IRDAI has proposed changes including extending the
free look period to 30 days for both life and health insurance policies, up from 15 days. The free look period allows
policyholders to review their insurance policies and cancel them within a specified period without incurring surrender
charges. Besides, the time taken to convey underwriting decisions on policies has been decreased from 15 days to 7 days,
thereby reducing wait times for customers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IRDAI – released draft regulations for a digital marketplace called “Bima Sugam - Insurance Electronic Marketplace”
• IRDAI – proposed extending free look period to 30 days for both life & health insurance policies, up from 15 days

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105. Federal Bank introduced its newest product, the “Stellar Savings Account”, aiming to
transform the banking sector by delivering exceptional benefits and innovative features.
Noteworthy features of the Stellar Savings Account comprise: One-year complimentary
wellness plan, Insurance coverage, Milestone benefits, Accelerated reward points, Eco-
friendly debit card. Wellness coverage is only available for the primary account holder
and is applicable for those 18 and older. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Federal Bank – introduced “Stellar Savings Account”
• Features of Stellar Savings Account:
- One-year complimentary wellness plan (Only for primary account holder & applicable for those 18 & older)
- Insurance coverage
- Milestone benefits
- Accelerated reward points
- Eco-friendly debit card
• HQs of Federal Bank – Aluva, Kerala | MD & CEO – Shyam Srinivasan | Tagline – “Your Perfect Banking Partner”

106. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has raised Rs 12.5 billion (about $150 million) through Green Masala Bonds,
making it the largest Indian rupee bond to date. The bond is denominated in Indian rupees but settled in United States
dollar. The proceeds from this bond will be used to finance ADB’s private-sector renewable energy projects and for green
financing. With an exchange rate of 6.72%, the bond has a maturity period of 4 years. The bond is listed on the
Luxembourg Stock Exchange. It was arranged by Standard Chartered Bank. ADB issued its first local currency green bond in
Indian rupees in 2017. ‘Masala bonds’ are bonds issued outside India but denominated in Indian Rupees, rather than the
local currency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – raised Rs 12.5 billion (about $150 million) through Green Masala Bonds, largest Indian rupee bond to date
• Aim – to finance ADB’s private-sector renewable energy projects and for green financing
• Exchange rate – 6.72% | Maturity period – 4 years
• Listed on – Luxembourg Stock Exchange | Arranged by – Standard Chartered Bank
• This bond is denominated in Indian rupees but settled in United States dollar
• ADB issued its first local currency green bond in Indian rupees in 2017
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 68

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107. In February 2024, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under
the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), and DBS Bank signed an MoU to spread
awareness on investment and fraudulent schemes. DBS Bank aims to support IEPFA’s
investor awareness activities by disseminating safety messages via its various digital
platforms, i.e., display of safety messages on ATM screens to reach customers during
banking transactions, featuring safety messages prominently on the bank’s website,
showcasing safety messages on digital screens within DBS Bank branches, etc. Previously,
IEPFA has also signed MoUs with the Bank of Baroda and ICICI Bank for similar activities.
IEPFA was set up on September 7, 2016 under the provisions of section 125 of the Companies Act, 2013. Since its
inception, the IEPFA has conducted several Investor Awareness Programmes aimed at increasing financial literacy and
empowering investors to protect themselves from financial fraud. Any company transfers the unpaid or unclaimed
amounts of the shareholders remaining in the unpaid dividend account for 7 years into the IEPF. However, the
shareholders can claim a refund of this amount by filing the Form IEPF-5 with the IEPF Authority. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IEPFA + DBS Bank = an MoU to spread awareness on investment and fraudulent schemes
• DBS Bank – to support IEPFA’s investor awareness activities by disseminating safety messages via digital platforms
• IEPFA – has also signed MoUs with the Bank of Baroda and ICICI Bank for similar activities
• IEPFA – works under Ministry of Corporate Affairs & was set up on September 7, 2016
• HQs of IEFPA – New Delhi | CEO – Smt. Anita Shah Akella | Chairperson- ex-officio – Manoj Govil (MCA Secretary)
• Minister of Corporate Affairs: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Corporate Affairs: Rao Inderjit Singh

108. PayNearby, a branchless banking and digital network, has launched “Digital
Naari” app, a platform to generate sustainable self-employment for women. The
initiative is aimed at providing additional income generation opportunities for
women in rural and semi-urban areas. The platform will enable the ‘Banker Didi’ to
provide a diverse range of financial and digital services to the masses. The person
will have the flexibility to offer services at her convenience in terms of time, location
(from home/store) and product preferences. The goal is to help women business owners, single women and women with
literacy challenges to have sustainable livelihood opportunities while enhancing their financial well-being and fostering
self-reliance. Anand Kumar Bajaj is the Founder, MD & CEO of PayNearby. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PayNearby – launched “Digital Naari” app to generate sustainable self-employment for women
• Aim – providing additional income generation opportunities for women in rural and semi-urban areas
• The platform will enable ‘Banker Didi’ to provide a diverse range of financial and digital services to the masses
• HQs of PayNearby – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Anand Kumar Bajaj

109. The government has appointed former LIC Chairman M R Kumar, former SBI MD A Krishna Kumar and Bank of Baroda
Director Srinivasan Sridhar, as Chairmen of public sector banks. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)
approved these appointments, subject to certain conditions. M R Kumar will serve as the Part-time Non-Official Director
and Non-Executive Chairman of Bank of India, while Mr Sridhar will take on the same roles at Indian Overseas Bank (IOB).
Additionally, Aravamudan Krishna Kumar will undertake the same responsibilities at UCO Bank. These individuals will serve
for three years, from the date of notification. {Read more}

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110. With a consistent history of 10-12% USD CAG R over the last 5/10/15/20 year periods, India is
now the 5th largest equity market globally at $4.5 trillion market capitalisation (m-cap) and its m-cap is
set to touch $10 trillion by 2030, according to a global investment advisory firm, Jefferies. Over the
next 4 years, Jefferies sees India’s GDP touching $5 trillion making it the 3rd largest economy by 2027,
overtaking Japan and Germany. However, it also pointed out that despite the rise in India’s market
cap, India’s weight in global indices is still low at 1.6%. US ($44.7 trillion), China ($9.8 trillion), Japan
($6 trillion) and Hong Kong ($4.8 trillion) are at present ahead of India in the m-cap race. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Key highlights of a report recently released by Jefferies (a global investment advisory firm) are given below
• India – 5th largest equity market globally at $4.5 trillion (m-cap) & it is set to touch $10 trillion by 2030
• Top 4: 1st – US ($44.7 tn) | 2nd – China ($9.8 tn) | 3rd – Japan ($6 tn) | 4th – Hong Kong ($4.8 tn)
• India – to be 3rd largest economy by 2027 with GDP at $5 trillion (overtaking Japan & Germany)
• India’s weight in global indices – 1.6%

111. SBM Bank India announced the appointment of Ashish Vijayakar as its Managing Director and Chief
Executive Officer for a period of 3 years. Previously, he worked at Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) as Co-
Head and MD. Sattar Hajee Abdoula is the Chairman of SBM Bank India. Vijayakar replaces Sidharth Rath
who had tendered his resignation last year before the completion of his term. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashish Vijayakar – appointed as MD & CEO of SBM Bank India (replacing – Sidharth Rath)
• HQs of SBM Bank India – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Ashish Vijayakar | Chairman – Sattar Hajee Abdoula
• SBM Bank India – the 1st foreign bank in India to obtain a banking license from the RBI

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112. Union Minister for Finance, Nirmala Sitharaman, presided over the 19th Foundation Day celebrations of the Security
Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) through hybrid mode, in New Delhi. On this occasion, the
Finance Minister launched 3 souvenir coins - (i) Coloured souvenir coin on Endangered Animals of India - Greater One
Horned Rhino; (ii) Bi-metallic clad souvenir coin on Enlightenment of Buddha; and (iii) Coloured souvenir coin of Ral Lalla
and Ayodhya Ram Mandir. SPMCIL is a Miniratna Category-I, Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), under the
administrative control of Ministry of Finance. On this occasion, awards were given to the units of SPMCIL in different
categories, viz., Productivity, Environment & Safety, Energy Conservation, Learning & Development, Official Language and
Vigilance Activities. The prestigious CMD Cup for ‘Overall Best Performance’ was given to India Security Press, Nashik. In
India, coins are minted at 4 places owned by SPMCIL. The 4 mints are located at Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Noida.
While, bank notes are printed at 4 currency presses in India, 2 of which are owned by the Government of India through
SPMCIL, and remaining 2 are owned by the RBI through its wholly owned subsidiary, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran
Private Ltd (BRBNMPL). The currency presses of SPMCIL are located at Nasik (Maharashtra) and Dewas (Madhya Pradesh).
The two presses of BRBNMPL are located at Mysuru (Karnataka) and Salboni (West Bengal). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nirmala Sitharaman – presided over 19th Foundation Day celebrations of SPMCIL (a Miniratna Category-I CPSE)
• She also launched 3 souvenir coins
- (i) Coloured souvenir coin on Endangered Animals of India - Greater One Horned Rhino
- (ii) Bi-metallic clad souvenir coin on Enlightenment of Buddha
- (iii) Coloured souvenir coin of Ral Lalla and Ayodhya Ram Mandir
• CMD Cup for ‘Overall Best Performance’ was given to – India Security Press, Nashik
• In India, coins are minted at 4 places owned by SPMCIL (at Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Noida)
• Bank notes are printed at 4 currency presses in India
- 2 are owned by the Government of India through SPMCIL – Nasik (MH) & Dewas (MP)
- 2 are owned by the RBI through BRBNMPL – Mysuru (Karnataka) & Salboni (West Bengal)
• Minister of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaowdhary & Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad

113. Walmart’s PhonePe launched an Android app store, called “Indus Appstore” to compete
with Google and Apple. It is a localised app store in India with over 2 lakh apps and games. Indus
Appstore focuses on localization, personalization, and freedom for developers. It will partner
with OEMs for distribution and offer advertising solutions and a la carte cataloguing and payment
services. It will also focus on third-party payment gateways without commission. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PhonePe – launched “Indus Appstore” to compete with Google & Apple
• Indus Appstore – a localised app store in India with over 2 lakh apps & games
• It will partner with OEMs for distribution & offer advertising solutions
• HQs of PhonePe – Bangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Sameer Nigam | Founded in – 2015

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114. The system-level credit growth in Indian banks is expected to moderate to 14% in FY25
(2024-25), from the existing 16% (from first 3 quarters of FY24), as deposit growth is unable to
keep pace with loans, according to S&P Global Ratings. If credit and deposit growth rates
remain steady, a period of deposit competition will loom, squeezing bank margins to 2.9%
from 3%. With regard to capital adequacy ratio, the report said, most of India’s banks can
support loan growth as high as 15-20% for the next 3 years without need for large capital raising. Meanwhile, S&P Global
announced the launch of the ‘India Research Chapter’, an initiative to fuel India-oriented research and reports. Indian
banks’ credit deposit ratio reached a two-decade high of 80% in December 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• S&P Global Ratings: Credit growth in Indian banks is expected to moderate to 14% in FY25 (from the existing 16%)
• Most of India’s banks can support loan growth as high as 15-20% for next 3 years without raising large capital
• S&P Global – launched the ‘India Research Chapter’, an initiative to fuel India-oriented research & reports
• Indian banks’ credit deposit ratio reached a two-decade high of 80% in Dec 2023
• HQs of S&P Global Ratings – New York, US | President – Martina L. Cheung

115. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed banks and non-banks to issue Prepaid Payment
Instruments (PPIs) for public transit services such as metro, buses, rail, waterways, tolls, and parking.
The regulator amended the guidelines for PPIs for mass transit systems (MTS), saying that such PPIs
could be issued without KYC verification of the holder. PPIs are instruments that facilitate purchases
of goods and services, financial services, remittance facilities, among others, against the value stored
in them. While these instruments can be reloaded, withdrawing cash, refund, or fund transfer will
not be permitted in PPIs. The outstanding amount will not exceed Rs 3,000. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI allowed banks & non-banks to issue Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) for public transit services
• RBI amended guidelines for PPIs for Mass Transit Systems (MTS) | Outstanding amount will not exceed Rs 3,000
• PPIs – facilitate purchases of goods & services, financial services, remittance facilities, among others
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

116. Omnichannel payments, and business banking platform, Razorpay, has achieved an
annualized Total Payment Volume (TPV) of $150 billion. With this milestone, Razorpay gains a
majority market share, making it India’s market leader in the Digital Payments Processing
category. Razorpay has launched a new standard of payments in India, “Payment Gateway
3.0”, making it India’s only Payment Gateway (PG) that solves not just the payment journey but the whole buyer journey.
It is powered by its proprietary AI engine, AI Nucleus. Moreover, with an intent to build payment efficiencies in large-
format retail stores, Razorpay has launched India’s 1st UPI-led Enterprise Ready Dynamic QR (DQR) Device. Also, Razorpay
has now forayed into a new territory, Marketing & Growth, with the launch of “ENGAGE”, a full-stack intelligent marketing
growth suite, powered by India’s payment infrastructure. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Razorpay (powered by AI Nucleus) – achieved an annualized Total Payment Volume of $150 billion
• It become India’s market leader in the Digital Payments Processing category
• Razorpay launched:

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117. World Bank Group appointed Wencai Zhang as the Managing Director and World Bank Group
Chief Administrative Officer. In his new role, Wencai Zhang will oversee the transformation of
critical functions within the Bank Group, including Budget, Planning, Strategy, and Information
Technology Services. He will contribute to implementing the new Bank vision of ending poverty on a
sustainable planet. Wencai Zhang, a Chinese national, previously served as Vice President at the
Export-Import Bank of China. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Wencai Zhang (China) – appointed as MD & Chief Administrative Officer of World Bank Group
• He previously served as Vice President at Export-Import Bank of China
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189

118. Fintech startup Paymart has introduced India’s first “Virtual ATM (VATM)”
to offer its innovative virtual, cardless, and hardware-less cash withdrawal
service. Paymart has partnered with 5 prominent banks, IDBI Bank, Indian Bank,
Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Karur Vyasa Bank, and Axis Bank, to roll out this service
nationwide. The company is also in advanced discussions with four additional
banks for further collaboration. The company said that the virtual ATM service will empower local shopkeepers,
converting them into essential hubs for cash withdrawals without the need for traditional ATM machines or other
hardware. Paymart also entered into a partnership with CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd to further expand the reach
of its virtual ATM service. Amit Narang is the Founder & CEO of Paymart. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paymart (Fintech startup) – introduced India’s first “Virtual ATM (VATM)”
• For this, Paymart partnered with 5 banks (IDBI Bank, Indian Bank, J&K Bank, Karur Vyasa Bank & Axis Bank)
• Paymart + CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd = partnership to further expand reach of its virtual ATM service
• HQs of Paymart – Chandigarh, India | Founder & CEO of – Amit Narang | Founded in – 2015

119. Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited and IBM partnered to create a “Super App” aiming to provide
customers with 24/7 digital access to a single digital financial services platform. Focussing on both, the rural as well as
urban customers, and to streamlining the digital lending process, it would help consumers with various vehicle and non-
vehicle lending businesses. IBM Consulting will support “human-centred design methodology” to elevate the super app
experience for its consumers, tracking actions of their lending journey. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MMFSL + IBM = partnered to create a “Super App”
• Aim – to provide customers with 24/7 digital access to a single digital financial services platform
• IBM Consulting will support “human-centred design methodology” to elevate the super app experience

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120. The RBI has asked Regulated Entities (REs) to leverage technology to enhance
effectiveness of Internal Compliance Monitoring. The REs include Scheduled
Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural Banks), Small Finance Banks; Payments
Banks; large urban co-operative banks, large non-banking finance companies
(including housing finance companies); Credit Information Companies and All India
Financial Institutions. RBI had recently carried out an assessment in select REs of the
prevailing system. The review brought out that automation of the compliance
monitoring process in REs remains a work in progress with various aspects of this function being carried out with
significant manual intervention. Thus, the central bank asked the REs to carry out a comprehensive review of the existing
internal compliance tracking and monitoring processes and institute necessary changes to existing systems or implement
new systems latest by June 30, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – asked Regulated Entities to leverage technology to enhance effectiveness of Internal Compliance Monitoring
• REs include:
- Scheduled Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural Banks)
- Small Finance Banks
- Payments Banks
- Large UCBs
- Large NBFCs (including HFCs)
- Credit Information Companies (CICs)
- All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs)
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

121. Geeta Batra, an Indian economist, is appointed as the new Director at the Independent
Evaluation Office (IEO) of the World Bank’s Global Environment Facility (GEF), making her
the first-ever woman to hold the coveted post. She is currently the Chief Evaluator & Deputy
Director for Evaluation at the GEF’s IEO. Her name was unanimously recommended for the
coveted position at the 66th GEF Council Meeting held in Washington on February 9, 2024.
Since the Rio Earth Summit (1992), the GEF has been one of the largest players in the
environmental sector, providing around $24 billion in grants, plus marshalling an additional
$138 billion in co-financing over 5,700 projects in 170 countries till 2020. The GEF is a partnership for international
cooperation with 183 countries working together with international institutions, private sector and civil society to address
global environmental concerns. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Geeta Batra – 1st woman to be appointed as new Director at the Independent Evaluation Office of World Bank’s GEF
• 66th GEF Council Meeting – held in Washington, US
• GEF: Established on the eve of ‘1992 Rio Earth Summit’ | CEO & Chairperson – Carlos Manuel Rodríguez

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122. On February 25, the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), under the Ministry
of Statistics & Programme Implementation, released data on household
consumption expenditure for the year 2022-23. People were kept in 20 different
categories and the data shows per capita monthly household expenditure more
than doubled in 2022-23 as compared to 2011-12. The survey findings indicate that
poverty in India is now below 5%. The average per capita monthly expenditure for
all categories stood at Rs 3,773 in rural areas and Rs 6,459 in urban areas. The average per capita monthly expenditure of
0-5% fractile class is pegged at Rs 1,373 in rural areas and Rs 2,001 in urban areas. This shows that the progress in the
country is happening in both urban and rural areas. According to the survey data, the gap was 84% in 2011-12 and has
come down to 71% in 2022-23. The total consumption of food in rural areas as a share in the average MPCE (Monthly Per
Capita Consumption Expenditure) has gone down from 53% in 2011-12 to 46% now, according to the survey. While, the
total consumption of food in urban areas as a share in the average MPCE has gone down to 39% for the first time ever
from 43% in 2011-12. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSSO – released data on ‘Household Consumption Expenditure for 2022-23’
• Survey findings:
- People were kept in 20 categories & per capita monthly household expenditure more than doubled in FY23
- Poverty in India is now below 5%
- Avg per capita monthly expenditure: rural areas – Rs 3,773 | urban areas – Rs 6,459
- Avg per capita monthly expenditure of 0-5% fractile class: rural areas – Rs 1,373 | urban areas – Rs 2,001
- Gap: 71% in 2022-23 (from 84% in 2011-12)
- Total consumption of food in rural areas as a share in avg MPCE: 46% in 2022-23
- Total consumption of food in urban areas as a share in avg MPCE: 39% in 2022-23
• HQs of NSSO – New Delhi | DG – Geeta Singh Rathore (under Ministry of Statistics & Program Implementation)
• MoS I/C of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation: Rao Inderjit Singh | Constituency – Gurgaon

123. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) ended 2023 at a high, recording 1,202 crore transactions worth more than Rs 18.23
lakh crore in December 2023, a peak for both the transaction count and value, as per data by the National Payments
Corporation of India (NPCI). In percentage terms, the value of transactions was 4.8% higher on the month and 42% on
year. While, the number of transactions were higher by 6.9% on month and 54% on year. UPI transactions are expected to
breach 100 crore transactions per day by FY27, as per a report by PwC India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NPCI: UPI ended 2023 with recording 1,202 Cr transactions worth more than Rs 18.23 lakh Cr in Dec 2023
• Value of transactions was 4.8% higher on month & 42% on year
• Number of transactions were higher by 6.9% on month & 54% on year
• As a report by PwC India – UPI transactions are expected to breach 100 crore transactions per day by FY27
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Ajay Kumar Choudhary | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008

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124. Google India Digital Services and NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the NPCI,
signed an MoU to expand UPI to countries beyond India. The MoU has three key objectives - (i) To broaden the use of UPI
payments for travelers outside of India, enabling them to conveniently make transactions abroad, (ii) To assist in
establishing UPI-like digital payment systems in other countries, and (iii) To focus on easing the process of remittances
between countries by utilizing the UPI infrastructure, thereby simplifying cross-border financial exchanges. Now, Indian
consumers will no longer have to rely only on foreign currency or credit and forex cards for making digital payments.
Ritesh Shukla is the CEO of NIPL. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google India Digital Services + NIPL = signed an MoU to expand UPI to countries beyond India, with three objectives:
- To broaden use of UPI payments for travelers outside of India
- To assist in establishing UPI-like digital payment systems in other countries
- To focus on easing process of remittances between countries by utilizing the UPI infrastructure
• CEO of NIPL – Ritesh Shukla
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Ajay Kumar Choudhary | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008

125. The Central Economic Intelligence Bureau (CEIB), under the Ministry of Finance, has launched an “Automated Search
Portal” to help public sector banks (PSBs) with antecedent verification of prospective borrowers and non-performing
assets (NPAs). The portal has been developed by the CEIB in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI). It will help
PSBs obtain mandatory intelligence clearance from CEIB in a prompt manner, which in turn will facilitate timely
disbursement of funds. According to Ministry of Finance, PSBs seek report from the CEIB before sanction of loan exceeding
Rs 50 crore and above in case of new borrowers and if the existing borrower’s accounts turn NPA. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CEIB – launched “Automated Search Portal” to help PSBs with antecedent verification of new borrowers & NPAs
• Portal is jointly developed by = CEIB + SBI
• PSBs seek report from the CEIB before sanction of loan exceeding Rs 50 Cr & above
• HQs of CEIB – New Delhi | DG – Amit Mohan Govil
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
• MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

126. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially extended the “Interest Equalisation Scheme” for pre- and post-shipment
rupee export credit until June 30, 2024, maintaining the same scope and coverage, with an additional allocation of Rs
2,500 crore. The scheme, designed to provide pre- and post-shipment export credit to eligible exporters, allows banks to
offer this benefit to qualified exporters. The banks then claim reimbursement from the RBI based on certification by an
external auditor. Under the scheme’s revised provisions, the interest equalisation rates for manufacturers and merchant
exporters, exporting under specified 410 Harmonised System lines, are set at 2% and 3% for micro-small and medium
enterprises manufacturers exporting under any Harmonised System line. While the scheme, initiated on April 1, 2015, was
initially valid for five years until March 2020, it has been consistently extended. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – extended “Interest Equalisation Scheme” for pre- & post-shipment rupee export credit until June 30, 2024
• Additional allocation for the scheme – Rs 2,500 Cr
• Interest equalisation rates, for manufacturers & merchant exporters, are set at 2% & 3%
• Interest Equalisation Scheme – initiated on April 1, 2015

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127. India’s poverty rate declined to 4.5-5% in 2022-23, with rural poverty declining to 7.2% from 25.7% in 2011-12 and
urban poverty down to 4.6% from a decade ago period, according to the new ‘Household Consumption Expenditure
Survey (HCES)’ data released by SBI Research. This decline is attributed to government programmes targeted at those at
the bottom of the pyramid. SBI Researchers estimated the new poverty line or the basic level of consumption required
was Rs 1,622 for rural areas and Rs 1,929 for urban areas. The share of household spending on food declined below 50%
for the first time for rural areas in 2022-23. The share of food in urban consumption basket was below 40%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI Research – released the new ‘Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES)’ data
• India’s poverty rate – declined to 4.5-5% in 2022-23 from 2011-12 period
• Rural poverty – declined to 7.2% from 25.7% in 2011-12
• Urban poverty – declined to 4.6% from 2011-12 period
• New poverty line or basic level of consumption required estimated: Rural areas – Rs 1,622 | Urban areas – Rs 1,929
• Share of household spending on food declined below 50% for the first time for rural areas in 2022-23
• Share of food in urban consumption basket was below 40%
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
• MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

128. According to the recent press release of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the coupon rate on “Floating Rate Savings
Bonds (FRSB), 2020 (Taxable)” for the period January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024 and payable on July 1, 2024 remains at
8.05%, unchanged from the previous half-year. The interest rate of ‘FRSB 2020’ is not fixed. The coupon/interest rate is set
at a spread of (+) 35 bps over the prevailing National Savings Certificate (NSC) rate (i.e., 7.70% + 0.35%). The
coupon/interest rate of the bond is reset half yearly, starting with January 1, 2021. While, the interest rate of NSC is
reviewed every quarter along with other small savings schemes. At present, NSC offers an interest rate of 7.7% for the
October-December quarter of 2023. RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) are issued by the RBI on behalf of the
Government of India. They have a lock-in period of 7 years. There is no premature withdrawal option, but senior citizens
can prematurely withdraw money with a penalty after a minimum lock-in period. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSB), 2020 (Taxable)” – remains at 8.05% for January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024
• The coupon/interest rate is set at a spread of (+) 35 bps over prevailing NSC rate (i.e., 7.70% + 0.35%)
• The coupon/interest rate of the bond is reset half yearly, starting with January 1, 2021
• Interest rate of ‘FRSB 2020’ is not fixed | Interest of NSC & other small savings schemes is reviewed every quarter
• Present interest rate at NSC – 7.7% for October-December 2023
• RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) – issued by RBI on behalf GoI with lock-in period of 7 years
• Only senior citizens can prematurely withdraw money with a penalty after a minimum lock-in period
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
• Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

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129. London-based HSBC Holdings Plc ranked first among arrangers for Indian offshore loans in 2023, according to data
compiled by Bloomberg. Borrowing by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Group contributed to HSBC’s business. The
volume of overseas loans taken out by Indian companies hit its highest in 2023, since 2016. HSBC received business from
state-backed banks, including a $1 billion term loan facility from State Bank of India (SBI). The British bank, HSBC, was the
bookrunner on roughly $4 billion of US-currency transactions in 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HSBC Holdings Plc (London) – was ranked first among arrangers for Indian offshore loans in 2023
• Volume of overseas loans taken out by Indian companies hit its highest in 2023 since 2016
• The data was complied by – Bloomberg
• HQs of HSBC Holdings Plc – London, UK | CEO – Noel Quinn
• HQs of HSBC India – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Hitendra Dave

130. MobiKwik (One MobiKwik Systems Limited) has announced a new feature on its platform,
“Pocket UPI”, that will enable users to have an enhanced control over budgeting and finance
management. Pocket UPI allows users to make UPI payments through MobiKwik Wallet without
linking their bank account. Pocket UPI safeguards users from compromised transactions and
financial fraud by transferring funds from the MobiKwik Wallet rather than their bank account. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MobiKwik – launched “Pocket UPI” to enable users to have enhanced control over budgeting & finance management
• It will allow users to make UPI payments through MobiKwik Wallet without linking their bank account
• HQs of MobiKwik – Gurgaon, Haryana | MD & CEO – Bipin Preet Singh | Chairperson – Upasana Taku

131. PayU Payments Private Ltd (PayU), which is fintech arm of Global Consumer Internet Group Prosus,
has appointed Renu Sud Karnad (a director at HDFC Bank) as Chairperson and Independent Director of the
company. This digital financial services provider has also inducted four more members to the board, taking
the overall strength of the board to 7 members. Karnad was managing director of India’s largest mortgage
lender HDFC till July 2023 before it got merged with HDFC Bank. Anirban Mukherjee is the CEO of PayU.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Renu Sud Karnad (Director at HDFC Bank) – appointed as Chairperson and Independent Director of PayU
• HQs of PayU – Netherlands | CEO – Anirban Mukherjee | Chairperson – Renu Sud Karnad

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Defence Affairs
132. INS Sandhayak (Yard 3025), the first of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships, has been
commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, Andhra
Pradesh. It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. The
primary role of the ship would be full scale coastal and deep-water Hydrographic Survey
of Port/ Harbour approaches and determination of navigational channels/ routes.
Sandhayak has an indigenous content of over 80% by cost. The ship is powered by two
Diesel Engines and can achieve spee d up to 18 knots. Other three Survey Vessel Ships are INS Nirdeshak, INS Ikshak & INS
Sanshodhak. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• INS Sandhayak (Yard 3025) – commissioned into the Indian Navy at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam
• It is first of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships | built by – GRSE, Kolkata with indigenous content of over 80% by cost
• Other three Survey Vessel Ships are – INS Nirdeshak, INS Ikshak & INS Sanshodhak
• HQs of GRSE – Kolkata, India | Chairman & MD – P. R. Hari | Founded in – 1884

133. Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out four
flight trials of High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT), “ABHYAS”, from the Integrated
Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha. During the flight trials, various parameters like required
endurance, speed, manoeuvrability, altitude and range were successfully validated.
Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), ABHYAS offers a
realistic threat scenario for practice of weapon systems. The systems tested recently were
realised through Production Agencies - Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Defence. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – successfully carried out four flight trials of High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT), “ABHYAS”
• ABHYAS is designed by – Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) Lab of DRDO
• The systems tested were realised through Production Agencies - HAL & L&T Defence
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

134. 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, “Mahabali”, has been delivered to Indian Navy at Naval
Ship Repair Yard (NSRY) in Kochi, Kerala. Contract for construction and delivery of three
25T BP Tugs was concluded with M/s Shoft Shipyard Pvt Ltd (M/s SSPL) in consonance
with ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. These Tugs are being built under the classification
rules of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The Tugs will provide afloat firefighting
assistance to ships alongside, at anchorage and will also have capability to conduct
limited Search and Rescue Operations. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, “Mahabali” – delivered to Indian Navy at Naval Ship Repair Yard (NSRY) in Kochi, Kerala
• The contract for construction & delivery of three 25T BP Tugs – is given to M/s Shoft Shipyard (Thane, Maharashtra)
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi

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135. Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for procurement of 11 Shakti
Electronic Warfare Systems for Indian Navy under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category at a total cost of Rs 2269.54 Cr. The Shakti
EW System is indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured. The Shakti EW System is capable of accurately
intercepting electronic emissions and implement counter measures in dense electromagnetic environment. Ministry of
Defence also signed a Rs 1752.13 Crore contract with Advanced Weapon Equipment India Ltd (AWEIL), Kanpur, for the
manufacturing and supply of 463 indigenously manufactured 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote Control Guns (SRCG) for the
Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoD + BEL = a contract for procurement of 11 Shakti Electronic Warfare Systems for Indian Navy
• EW system will be bought under – Buy (Indian-IDDM) category | Total cost – Rs 2269.54 Cr
• MoD + AWEIL = a Rs 1752.13 Cr contract for the manufacturing and supply of 463 indigenously manufactured 12.7
mm Stabilised Remote Control Guns (SRCG) for Indian Navy & ICG
• HQs of BEL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CMD – Bhanu Prakash Srivastava (addi. charge)
• HQs of AWEIL – Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh | CMD – Rajesh Choudhary
• Ministry of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Defence: Ajay Bhatt

136. The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted the exercise “Vayu Shakti-24” at the
Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan on February 17, 2024. The exercise, based
on the theme ‘Lightning Strike from the Sky’, showcased the IAF’s offensive and
defensive capabilities. 121 aircraft, including Tejas, Prachand, Dhruv, Rafael Mike
Mirage 2000, Sukko, Tri Mk, and Jaguar, participated in the exercise. Indigenous
platforms such as the Tejas aircraft, Prachand helicopters, and Akash and Samar
surface-to-air missile systems - also participated in the exercise. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IAF – conducted exercise “Vayu Shakti-24” at Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• Theme – ‘Lightning Strike from the Sky’
• Rajasthan: Capital – Jaipur | CM – Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor – Kalraj Mishra
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | Vice Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh

137. Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R. Hari Kumar inaugurated a “Precision
Approach Radar (PAR)” at INS Utkrosh in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar
Islands. The PAR will enable highly accurate horizontal and vertical guidance to
land an aircraft safely in low visibility conditions, such as heavy rain and fog. He
also inaugurated the “Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and
Surveillance System (IUHDSS)” at Naval Jetty, Port Blair. The IUHDSS is capable
of detecting, identifying & tracking surface and underwater targets in the
vicinity of naval jetty thereby enhancing the security of Port Blair harbour.
During the visit to the ANC units, CNS Adm. Kumar inaugurated the Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres at INS
Kohassa, INS Baaz and INS Kardip, designed to further augment the communication and operational capability of the
Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC). The new NCN will enhance real-time situational awareness and jointness in
communication. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• In Andaman & Nicobar Islands, R. Hari Kumar (CNS) inaugurated:
- “Precision Approach Radar (PAR)” at INS Utkrosh
- “Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence & Surveillance System (IUHDSS)” at Naval Jetty
- “Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres” at INS Kohassa, INS Baaz & INS Kardip
• PAR – to enable highly accurate horizontal & vertical guidance to land an aircraft safely in low visibility conditions
• IUHDSS – capable of detecting, identifying & tracking surface & under water targets in vicinity of naval jetty
• NCN – enhance real time situational awareness & jointness in communication
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi
• Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Capital – Port Blair | Lt. Governor – Admiral Devendra Kumar Joshi

138. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh officially inaugurated the 12th edition of “MILAN
2024”, the largest multinational naval exercise hosted by the Indian Navy in
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, from February 19 to 27, 2024. Delegations from nearly
50 countries - including the US, Japan, Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea,
Vietnam, Indonesia & Malaysia - are taking part in the exercise. From the Indian Navy,
nearly 20 ships, including aircraft carriers Vikrant and Vikramaditya, and nearly 50
aircraft, including MiG 29K and P8I, will participate in the event. The harbour phase
includes the International City Parade, International Maritime Seminar, Milan Tech Expo, MILAN Village, Subject Matter
Expert Exchange and Table Top Exercise. During the sea phase, participating navies will conduct advanced air defence,
anti-submarine and anti surface warfare drills. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rajnath Singh – inaugurated 12th edition of “MILAN 2024” in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• It is largest multinational naval exercise hosted by Indian Navy (participation of dlegations from nearly 50 countries)
• Harbour phase includes – International City Parade, International Maritime Seminar, Milan Tech Expo, MILAN
Village, Subject Matter Expert Exchange & Table Top Exercise
• Sea phase includes – advanced air defence, anti-submarine & anti surface warfare drills
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi

139. A Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise, “Shanti Prayas IV”, kicked off in Nepal at the
Birendra Peace Operation Training Centre in the Kabhre district with the participation of
19 countries, including India, Bangladesh and Pakistan to enhance the interoperability
and peacekeeping skills of the forces. The exercise has been organised with the assistance
of the Global Peace Operation Initiative (GPOI) of the US government. Nepal hosted the
inaugural multi-platoon training event ‘Shanti Prayas’ in 2000. Since then, 3 successful
multi-platoon exercises have taken place in the country. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Shanti Prayas IV’, a Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise – conducted at Kabhre, Nepal
• 19 countries participated in it, including India, Bangladesh & Pakistan
• Exercise was organised with assistance of Global Peace Operation Initiative (GPOI) of the US
• Nepal – Kathmandu – Nepalese Rupee | President – Ram Chandra Poudel | PM – Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’

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140. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has given its nod for acquisition of over 200 BrahMos Extended Range (ER)
supersonic cruise missiles for deployment on Indian Navy warships. The deal worth Rs 19,000 Crore was cleared by CCS in
its meeting. A formal agreement will be signed between the BrahMos Aerospace and Ministry of Defence (MoD) in March
2024 to roll out the process of induction of the weapons into the Indian Navy. This supersonic cruise missile has an
extended range of 400 to 500 km. Brahmos Aerospace Chairperson, Atul Rane, had said that the missile project has
achieved 75% indigenous capability and they were looking at sales target of $5 billion by 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCS approved acquisition of 200 BrahMos ER supersonic cruise missiles for deployment on Indian Navy warships
• Financial outlay – Rs 19,000 Cr
• BrahMos Aerospace + MoD = will sign agreement in March 2024 to roll out process of induction of weapons
• Extended range of BrahMos ER supersonic cruise missile – 400 to 500
• Missile project has achieved 75% indigenous capability | Sales target – $5 billion by 2025
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi
• HQs of Brahmos Aerospace – New Delhi | Chairperson – Atul Rane

141. The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise “DHARMA GUARDIAN” between the
Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force has commenced at Mahajan
Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from
February 25 to March 9, 2024. It is an annual exercise and conducted alternatively
in India and Japan. The contingent of both sides comprises of 40 personnel each.
Indian Army contingent is being represented by a Battalion from the Rajputana
Rifles. Aim of the Exercise is to foster Military Cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations
in semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5th edition of ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ – commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan
• It is an annual Joint Military Exercise between – India & Japan
• Indian Army contingent was represented by – Rajputana Rifles
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

142. Indian Coast Guard, Sri Lankan Navy (SLN) and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) conducted the 16th edition of
the biennial trilateral Coast Guard exercise, “Dosti-16”, from February 22-25, 2024 in Male, Maldives. The trilateral
exercise ‘Dosti’ united the troika to address shared maritime security concerns through collaboration. Indian Coast Guard
ship Samarth and ICGS Abhinav along with Sri Lanka Naval Ship Samudura participated in the exercise ‘DOSTI-16’, while
Bangladesh participated as an observer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICG + SLN + MNDF = conducted 16th edition of biennial trilateral Coast Guard exercise, “Dosti-16”, in Male, Maldives
• Participating ships from India – ICGS Samarth & ICGS Abhinav | Observer Nation – Bangladesh
• HQs of ICG – New Delhi | DG – Rakesh Pal | Founded in – 1977
• Sri Lanka – Colombo/Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte – Sri Lankan Rupee
PM – Dinesh Gunawardena | President – Ranil Wickremesinghex
• Maldives – Male – Maldivian rufiyaa | President – Mohamed Muizzu

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Sports & Games
143. East Bengal FC, for the first time, won the “Indian Super Cup 2024” by
defeating Odisha FC in the final at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Odisha
FC’s Lalthuammawia Ralte was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament,
while Isak Vanlalruatfela from the same FC won the Kalinga Player of the
Tournament award. The Super Cup is also known as ‘Kalinga Super Cup’. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• East Bengal FC – won “Indian Super Cup 2024” at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (defeating - Odisha FC)
• Lalthuammawia Ralte (Odisha FC) – Best Goalkeeper of Tournament
• Isak Vanlalruatfela (Odisha FC) – Kalinga Player of Tournament
• Kalinga Super Cup – another name of “Indian Super Cup”

144. India finished their campaign at the top of the medal tally with 6 medals (2
gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze) at the “ISSF World Cup 2024” in Cairo, Egypt. Britain
was second with 2 gold and a silver, while Germany followed with 2 gold and 3
bronze in the medal tally. Divyansh Singh Panwar won gold medal in men’s 10m
air rifle, while Rhythm Sangwan/Ujjawal Malik won gold medal in 10m air pistol
mixed team. Three silver medalists are - Sonam Uttam Maskar (women’s 10m
air rifle), Arjun Babuta/Sonam Uttam Maskar (10m air pistol mixed team), and
Anuradha Devi (women’s 10m air pistol). Akhil Sheoran won bronze medal in men’s 50m rifle 3 positions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISSF World Cup 2024 – India finished at the top with 6 medals (2 gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze) in Cairo, Egypt
• 2nd – Britain (2 gold & 1 silver) | 3rd – Germany (2 gold & 3 bronze)
• 2 gold medalists:
- Divyansh Singh Panwar (men’s 10m air rifle)
- Rhythm Sangwan & Ujjawal Malik (10m air pistol mixed team)
• 3 silver medalists:
- Sonam Uttam Maskar (women’s 10m air rifle)
- Arjun Babuta & Sonam Uttam Maskar (10m air pistol mixed team)
- Anuradha Devi (women’s 10m air pistol)
• Akhil Sheoran – won bronze medal in men’s 50m rifle 3 positions
• HQs of ISSF – Munich, Germany | President – Vladimir Lisin

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145. Maharashtra bagged the overall championships for the 4th time with
a total of 158 medals (57 gold, 48 silver & 53 bronze) in the 6 th “Khelo
India Youth Games 2024” held in Tamil Nadu (across 4 cities: Chennai,
Coimbatore, Madurai & Tiruchi). Tamil Nadu finished 2nd with a total of 98
medals (38 gold, 21 silver & 39 bronze). Haryana finished third with a total
of 103 medals (35 gold, 22 silver & 46 bronze). In the football final boys’
gold medal match, Meghalaya defeated Punjab. The mascot of the
Games, ‘Veera Mangai’, represents the brave woman Rani Velu Nachiyar.
The multi-sport extravaganza features 27 sporting events, including Silambam. Silambam is an Indian martial art
originating in Tamil Nadu, South India. Swimmer Vritti Agarwal of Telangana was one of the Best Athletes of the games,
winning a total of 5 gold medals in - 200m butterfly, 1500m freestyle, 800m freestyle, 400m freestyle and 200m freestyle.
Besides, Sanjana of Haryana created 5 records in the 76kg weightlifting division. Some other important winners are
mentioned below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 6th Khelo India Youth Games 2024 winner – Maharashtra (4th time) with 158 medals (57 gold, 48 silver & 53 bronze)
• 2nd – Tamil Nadu (38 gold, 21 silver & 39 bronze) | 3rd – Haryana (35 gold, 22 silver & 46 bronze)
• It was held in Tamil Nadu (across 4 cities: Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai & Tiruchi)
• Mascot of the Games – ‘Veera Mangai’, & it represents the brave woman Rani Velu Nachiyar
• Vritti Agarwal (Swimmer Telangana) – won 5 gold in five different swimming events
• Some of the important winners:

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146. The ‘2027 World Test Championship’ (final) will be held in England in June. It will
be the 4th consecutive time that England will host the WTC final in 2027. The ICC has
decided to introduce a ‘Women’s T20 Champions Trophy’, the inaugural edition of
which will be played in Sri Lanka in February 2027. The ICC Board has also lifted the
suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect. The ICC had suspended
Sri Lanka in November 2023 citing political interference. The ‘Men’s ODI Champions
Trophy’ will be staged in Pakistan in February 2025. Malaysia & Thailand will stage the second edition of the ‘Women’s
Under-19 World Cup’, in January 2025. India will host the next ‘Women’s ODI World Cup’, in October/November 2025,
while it will also host the ‘Men’s T20 World Cup’ in October/November 2026, along with Sri Lanka, in 2026. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Venues of some of the upcoming ICC events:
• 2027 World Test Championship – England
• 2027 Women’s T20 Champions Trophy (inaugural edition) – Sri Lanka
• 2025 Men’s ODI Champions Trophy – Pakistan
• 2025 Women’s Under-19 World Cup (2nd edition) – Malaysia & Thailand
• 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup – India
• 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup – India & Sri Lanka
• HQs of ICC – Dubai, UAE | Chairman – Greg Barclay | CEO – Geoff Allardice | Members – 108 countries

147. Vishnu Saravanan became the first Indian sailor to book a quota place in the “2024
Paris Olympics”. The 24-year-old subedar from the Mumbai-based Army Yachting Node
earned a net score of 125 and finished 26th among 152 participants from 53 nations in the
2024 ILCA7 Men’s World Championships in Adelaide, Australia. Vishnu will become the
second Indian sailor after Farokh Tarapore, who competed in the 1984, 1988 and 1992
Olympics, to take part in multiple editions of the Games. In sailing, the quota place belongs
to the National Olympic Committee (NOC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vishnu Saravanan – 1st Indian sailor to book quota place in “2024 Paris Olympics”
• He finished 26th among 152 participants in ‘2024 ILCA7 Men’s World Championships’ in Adelaide, Australia
• Vishnu will become the second Indian sailor after Farokh Tarapore to take part in multiple editions of the Games

148. The 4th “Khelo India Winter Games” commenced at Leh, Ladakh on February 2.
This edition of the Games is being hosted jointly by Union Territories of Ladakh and
Jammu and Kashmir in two parts. The first part of this edition is being hosted by
Ladakh at Leh. The second part of the game is scheduled from February 21 to 25 in
Kashmir Valley, Jammu & Kashmir. 600 athletes from 15 States and Union Territories
are participating in the two sporting events namely Ice Hockey and Ice Speed Skating
games in this first part of the Games. The mascot of the Khelo India Winter Games 2024 is the ‘Sheen-e She’ or ‘Shan’, the
snow leopard. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 4th “Khelo India Winter Games” – commenced at Leh, Ladakh
• It is hosted in two parts jointly by = Ladakh (1st part, in Leh) + J & K (2nd part, in Kashmir Valley)

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149. Former shooter Abhinav Bindra, India’s first Olympic gold medallist, has been selected as a
torchbearer for the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch Relay. The Olympic Torch Relay is an ancient
tradition that precedes the Summer Games. The modern iteration of the relay has been in
practice since Berlin 1936. For Paris 2024, the sacred Olympic flame will be lit in Olympia,
Greece (the birthplace of the Olympics) on April 16 before travelling to Athens. As of May 2024,
11,000 torch bearers, including Bindra, have been chosen to form a relay to celebrate the arrival
of the Games in France. Abhinav Bindra, also a member of the Athletes Commission of the International Olympic
Committee (IOC), was selected through an elaborate process which started on June 1, 2023. The 2024 Summer Olympics,
also known as 2024 Paris Olympic, will be held from July 26 to August 11, 2024 in Paris, France. ‘Phrygian caps’ are the
mascots for Paris 2024 (Olympics & Paralympics). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Abhinav Bindra – selected as a torchbearer for the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch Relay
• Abhinav Bindra – is India’s first Olympic gold medallist
• For Paris 2024, the Olympic flame will be lit in Olympia, Greece (birthplace of Olympics) before travelling to Athens
• 2024 Summer Olympics (2024 Paris Olympic) – will be held from July 26 to August 11, 2024 in Paris, France
• Mascots for Paris 2024 – ‘Phrygian caps’
• France – Paris – Euro | President – Emmanuel Macron | PM – Gabriel Attal

150. The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) Stadium will be renamed after former
first-class cricketer and senior administrator Niranjan Shah. The stadium in Khandheri,
Rajkot, will be rechristened as Niranjan Shah Stadium on the eve of the third Test
between India and England. The inauguration of the new name of the stadium will be
done by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. Niranjan Shah, who played 12 first-class games for
Saurashtra from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, has been one of the senior cricket
administrators in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) Stadium – to be renamed as Niranjan Shah Stadium
• The stadium is located in – Khandheri, Rajkot | Niranjan Shah – former first-class cricketer & senior administrator

151. New York will host the “2026 FIFA World Cup” final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on July 19, 2024. The
48-team tournament will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament will kick off with the opening
game at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium on June 11. Atlanta and Dallas (in the US) have been chosen to host the semi-finals,
while Miami (US) will be the venue for the third-place game. The Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will make history by
becoming the first stadium to host World Cup tournament games in three separate editions, having previously hosted in
1970 and 1986. Toronto will host the first game for the Canadian team, and Vancouver is another Canadian venue for
hosting the team. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2026 FIFA World Cup” tournament will be jointly hosted by = USA + Canada + Mexico
• Opening game – Azteca Stadium (Mexico City) | Final – MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey)

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152. Akash Dahiya defeated Sahil Kundu and emerged as the freestyle 61kg champion on
the concluding day of the “National Wrestling Championships 2024” at the Railway Stadium
in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Competitions were held in 10 different weight divisions in Jaipur. Six -
57kg, 65kg, 74kg, 86kg, 97kg and 125kg - are Olympic categories while four - 61kg, 70kg,
79kg and 92kg - are non-Olympic divisions. Rahul bagged the title in the 57kg. In the 97kg
freestyle category, Vicky Chahar won the gold medal after beating Karandeep Singh Nahal in
the final. In the 65kg freestyle final, Sujeet Kalkal defeated Rohit. Other winners are mentioned below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “National Wrestling Championships 2024” – held at the Railway Stadium in Jaipur, Rajasthan
• Olympic categories – 57kg, 65kg, 74kg, 86kg, 97kg and 125kg
• National Wrestling Championships 2024 men’s freestyle medal winners:
- 57kg winner: Rahul (defeating - Arvind Kumar)
- 61kg winner: Aakash Dahiya (defeating - Sahil Kundu)
- 65kg winner: Sujeet Kalkal (defeating - Rohit)
- 70kg winner: Parveen (defeating - Sahil)
- 74kg winner: Naveen Malik (defeating - Yash)
- 79kg winner: Sagar Jaglan (defeating - Parvindar Singh)
- 86kg winner: Sanjeet (defeating - Rahul Rathi)
- 92kg winner: Akash (defeating - Parveen)
- 97kg winner: Vicky (defeating - Karandeep Singh Nahal)
- 125kg winner: Anirudh (defeating - Dinesh)

153. India cricketer Mohammed Shami and chess Grandmaster R. Vaishali won the
‘Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports)’ and ‘Sportswoman of the Year (Individual)’ awards
respectively at the “Sportstar ACES Awards 2024” held at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai.
Shami bagged 24 wickets to emerge as the top wicket-taker of the ODI World Cup 2023.
Vaishali was a member of the Indian women’s chess team which won the silver medal at
the Asian Games. At the Qatar Masters 2023, she earned her final Grandmaster norm.
Former Indian cricket team captain Sunil Gavaskar was the jury Chairman of the ACES
Awards 2024. The Sportstar Aces Awards is presented by Amul, powered by IDFC First Bank in association with Indian Oil.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Sportstar ACES Awards 2024” – held at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
• The awards are presented by – Amul | Powered by – IDFC First Bank in association with – Indian Oil
• ‘Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports)’ – won by Mohammed Shami (India cricketer)

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154. Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Logo, Anthem,
Mascot (‘Ashtalakshmi’), Jersey and Torch of Khelo India University Games 2023.
Assam government in association with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) is hosting
the 4th Khelo India University Games in Guwahati from February 19 to 29, 2024. The
event will be organised at 18 venues in 7 cities during 11 days duration where
around 4500 athletes are expected to participate in 20 sporting disciplines. Of the
total 20 sporting disciplines of these games, 16 sporting disciplines will be held in
Guwahati and the remaining 4 disciplines in other North Eastern States. Moreover,
the Sports Authority of India (SAI) has recently released a fund of Rs 30.83 crore, and an out-of-pocket allowance of Rs
7.13 crore for 2,571 Khelo India Athletes for Quarter 4 of the financial year 2023-24. This amount is part of the ‘Khelo India
Scholarship Scheme’. As part of the Khelo India Scheme’s long-term development program, approximately 3,000 athletes
receive an out-of-pocket allowance of Rs 1,20,000 per annum per athlete. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma – launched Logo, Anthem, Mascot, Jersey & Torch of Khelo India University Games 2023
• Mascot name – ‘Ashtalakshmi’ (a butterfly)
• Assam government – hosting 4th Khelo India University Games in Guwahati, in association with SAI
• 16 sporting disciplines will be held in Guwahati and the remaining 4 disciplines in other North Eastern States
• Assam: Capital – Dispur | CM – Himanta Biswa Sarma | Governor – Gulab Chand Kataria
• HQs of SAI – New Delhi | DG – Sandip Pradhan

155 Australia won the “ICC Under-19 Men’s ODI World Cup” defeating India by 79 runs in
the final at Benoni, South Africa. Australia’s victory is their 4th U19 World Cup title, after 14
years. Australia’s victory is attributed to their star group of fast bowlers, led by player-of-
the-match Mahli Beardman. Uday Saharan is the captain of the Indian national under-19
cricket team. The team is currently coached by former India cricketer Hrishikesh Kanitkar.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Australia – won the “ICC Under-19 Men’s ODI World Cup” (defeating - India)
• It is Australia’s 4th U19 World Cup title | Player-of-the-match – Mahli Beardman (Australia)
• captain of the Indian national under-19 cricket team – Uday Saharan | Coach – Hrishikesh Kanitkar

156. India’s top-ranked tennis player, Sumit Nagal, won ‘Chennai Open ATP Challenger’ trophy in
men’s singles by defeating Luca Nardi of Italy. It is his 5th Challenger Title. With this, he enters the
Top 100 in the next ATP Rankings. Nagal will be the first Indian man since Prajnesh Gunneswaran
in 2019 to breach the top-100 barrier. The Chennai Open is the first in a series of ATP Challenger
100 events to be held in India. {Read more}

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157. India won the overall trophy with 360 points and 19 gold medals at the 1st
edition of “BIMSTEC Aquatics Championships 2024”. Thailand occupied the 2nd
spot, followed by Sri Lanka on the 3rd spot. A total of 43 events took place
across 3 aquatics disciplines - swimming, water polo & diving. The Indian
swimmers took the Men’s and Women’s Champion Trophies and the men and
women’s diving teams bagged the Diving Champions Trophies. The trophy for
‘Best Male Swimmer’ was given to India’s Harsh Saroha for winning 3 gold, and
Thailand’s Maria Anedelko was adjudged as the ‘Best Female Swimmer’ for
earning 3 gold and 1 silver. Meanwhile, on the last day, Thailand defeated India in women’s water polo. The BIMSTEC
Aquatics Championships 2024, which were held at Delhi’s Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex from
February 7 to 9, are a first of its kind sports event held under BIMSTEC (The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral
Technical and Economic Cooperation). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 1st “BIMSTEC Aquatics Championships 2024” held at – Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex, Delhi
• India won the overall trophy with 360 points and 19 gold medals | 2nd – Thailand | 3rd – Sri Lanka
• ‘Best Male Swimmer’ – Harsh Saroha (India), for winning 3 Golds
• ‘Best Female Swimmer’ – Maria Anedelko (Thailand), for winning 3 gold & 1 silver
• Men’s and Women’s Champion Trophies – won by India
• Men’s and Women’s Diving Champions Trophies – won by India
• Women’s Water Polo – won by Thailand (defeating - India)

158. India & Bangladesh were declared joint champions of the “2024 SAFF Under-19
Women’s Championship” at the BSSSMK Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This is India’s
4th age-group title in women’s SAFF competition history, and the first on Bangladeshi
soil. India failed to defend the lead and conceded the equaliser well into the add-on
time of the second half. Nitu Linda is the captain of India’s Under-19 Women’s Football
Team. SAFF was formed in 1997 by member associations from India, Bangladesh,
Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Dhaka-based SAFF now includes 7 member
countries. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship” – was held at BSSSMK Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh
• India & Bangladesh – were declared as joint champions
• This is India’s 4th age-group title in women’s SAFF competition history
• SAFF was formed in 1997 & now includes 7 member countries
• Captain of India’s Under-19 Women’s Football Team – Nitu Linda
• Bangladesh – Dhaka – Taka | PM – Seikh Hasina | President – Mohammed Shahabuddin

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159. Drass Warriors emerged as winner at the 15th “CEC Ice Hockey Cup
Championship” by defeating United Chiktan at the Khree Sultan Choo Ice Hockey Rink
in Kargil, Ladakh. Wasim Bilal earned the prestigious titles of Man of the Series and
Man of the Match. The tournament was organized by the District Youth Service and
Sports Department. Bodhkharbo Women Team also celebrated success, claiming the
Women’s Cup after defeating Wakha Mulbkeh. 31 men’s teams and 4 women’s teams
participated in the championship. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 15th “CEC Ice Hockey Cup Championship” – held in Kargil, Ladakh at Khree Sultan Choo Ice Hockey Rink
• Organized by – District Youth Service and Sports Department
• The championship was won by – Drass Warriors (Defeating - United Chiktan)
• ‘Man of the Series’ & ‘Man of the Match’ was given to – Wasim Bilal
• Women’s cup was won by – Bodhkharbo Women Team (Defeating - Wakha Mulbkeh)
• Ladakh: Capital – Leh | Lt. Governor – B. D. Mishra

160. World Championship medallist Amit Panghal and Sachin Siwach won a gold
medal each at the 75th ‘Strandja Memorial Tournament’ at Sofia, Bulgaria. Amit
(51kg) defeated Kazakhstan’s Sanzhar Tashkenbay in the men’s flyweight final,
while Sachin (57kg) defeated Uzbekistan’s Shakhzod Muzafarov. However, Nikhat
Zareen (50kg), Arundhati Choudhary (66kg), Barun Singh Shagolshem (48kg) and
Rajat (67kg) settled for silver medals. The Strandja Memorial is one of Europe’s
oldest boxing competitions and features high quality boxers from across the world.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• 75th ‘Strandja Memorial Tournament’ – held at Sofia, Bulgaria
• Amit Panghal (51kg) – won a Gold medal in men’s flyweight final (defeating - Sanzhar Tashkenbay (Kazakhstan))
• Sachin Siwach (57kg) – won a Gold Medal (defeating - Shakhzod Muzafarov (Uzbekistan))
• Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Arundhati Choudhary (66kg), Barun Shagolshem (48kg) & Rajat (67kg) – won Silver Medal
• Bulgaria – Sofia – Lev | President – Rumen Radev | Acting PM – Galab Donev

161. Federation of India has selected Diver Palak Sharma to lead the Indian diving team at the “World Aquatics
Championship 2024” held in Doha, Qatar from from February 2 to 18 , 2024. It was the first time the World Aquatics
Championships was staged in the Middle East. The 21st edition of the World Aquatics Championships was hosted by 3
venues - Aspire Dome (swimming, artistic swimming, water polo), Hamad Aquatic Centre (diving), and Old Doha Port (open
water swimming, high diving). China topped the medal tally with 33 medals (23 gold, 8 silver, 2 bronze), followed by the
US (9 gold) and Australia (7 gold). Singapore will host the next World Aquatics Championships in 2025, with Budapest
(Hungary) hosting in 2027, and Beijing (China) hosting in 2029. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Palak Sharma – led Indian diving team at “World Aquatics Championship 2024” (21st edition) held in Doha, Qatar
• The Championships was hosted by 3 venues in Doha – Aspire Dome, Hamad Aquatic Centre & Old Doha Port
• China topped the medal tally with 33 medals (23 gold, 8 silver, 2 bronze) | 2nd – US | 3rd – Australia

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162. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, officially handed over the Chess
Olympiad Torch to Hungary which will host the 45th edition of the Chess Olympiad in September 2024 in
Budapest, Hungary. The transfer of the torch took place at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium in
New Delhi. The 44th edition of the Chess Olympiad held in Chennai in 2022 witnessed the participation of
over 2500 players and 7000 participants globally. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anurag Singh Thakur – handed over Chess Olympiad Torch to Hungary at Major Dhyanchand National Stadium, Delhi
• Hungary – will host 45th Chess Olympiad in September 2024 in Budapest, Hungary
• 44th edition was held in – Chennai in 2022
• Hungary – Budapest – Forint | President – Katalin Novak | PM – Viktor Orban

163. In February 2024, the Indian football team dropped 15 places to 117th in the
FIFA rankings, the worst in 7 years. It is as a result of the recent defeat in the AFC
Asian Cup, where Indian team lost all its three group matches. It now lies in between
Togo (116th) and Guinea-Bissau (118th). India is ranked 22nd among the Asian nations.
The historical worst ranking, though, was 173 in 2015. The Indian team was placed at
102nd in the last FIFA rankings, issued on December 21, 2023. Argentina is still leading
the rankings, followed by France, England, Belgium and Brazil. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian football team – dropped to 117th in FIFA rankings, worst in 7 years | 116th – Togo | 118th – Guinea-Bissau
• Top – Argentina | 2nd – France | 3rd – England | 4th – Belgium | 5th – Brazil
• It is ranked 22nd among the Asian nations | Indian team – lost all its three group matches in the AFC Asian Cup
• Historical worst ranking was – 173 (2015)
• Indian team was placed at 102nd in the last FIFA rankings, issued on December 21, 2023
• Argentina – Buenos Aires – Peso | President – Javier Milei

164. In February 2024, India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah became the first Indian pacer to claim
the No. 1 spot on the latest ICC Men’s Test Bowler rankings, after a stellar performance
against England in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Bumrah has taken two 5-wicket hauls in
Test matches in 2024. Bumrah now has 881 rating points, followed by South Africa’s Kagiso
Rabada (842) and India’s Ravichandran Ashwin (841). Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja also have
the unique distinction of being jointly top-ranked in March 2017. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Jasprit Bumrah – became 1st Indian pacer to claim No. 1 spot on latest ICC Men’s Test Bowler rankings
• He has taken two 5-wicket hauls in Test matches in 2024 & now has 881 rating points
• 2nd – South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada (842) | 3rd – India’s Ravichandran Ashwin (841)
• HQs of BCCI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | President – Roger Binny | Secretary – Jay Shah | Founded in – 1928

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165. Indian athletes bagged 3 medals on the opening day at the “Asian Indoor
Athletics Championships 2024” in Tehran, Iran. Harmilan Bains and Jyothi
Yarraji won gold in the women’s 1500m and 60m hurdles, respectively. While
Tajinderpal Singh Toor won gold in men’s shot put and broke a 19-year-old
national record while at it. Toor, who holds the Asian record in the outdoor
event, logged his best throw of 19.72m and shattered the previous mark of
19.60m set by Vikas Gowda back in 2005. Tajinderpal Singh had won India’s
only gold medal at the Asian Indoor Championships last year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Asian Indoor Athletics Championships 2024” – held in Tehran, Iran
• Indian athletes – bagged 3 medals on the opening day
• The 3 Gold medal winners are:
- Harmilan Bains (women’s 1500m)
- Jyothi Yarraji (women’s 60m hurdles)
- Tajinderpal Singh Toor (Men’s shot put)
• Tajinderpal Singh Toor – threw 19.72m & broke a 19-year-old national record of 19.60m set by Vikas Gowda
• Ankita Dhyani – clinched silver in women’s 3000 metres event
• Iran – Tehran – Rial | President – Ebrahim Raisi | Supreme Leader – Ali Khamenei

166. The Indian women’s team won a historic gold medal at the “Badminton Asia
Team Championships 2024” after beating Thailand in the final in Shah Alam,
Malaysia. The team included PV Sindhu, Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly and
Anmol Kharb who won their respective matches. This was India’s maiden title in
the history of the continental competition. The men’s Indian badminton team had
previously won two medals in 2016 and 2020, but both were bronze. This year,
Men’s team title was won by China, defeating Malaysia. The Badminton Asia
Team Championships 2024 served as qualifying tournament for the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024” final – held in Shah Alam, Malaysia
• Indian women’s team – won a historic Gold medal (defeating - Thailand)
• China men’s team – won Gold medal (defeating - Malaysia)
• It was India’s maiden title in the history of the continental competition
• Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024 – qualifying tournament for BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2024
• Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur – Ringgit | PM – Anwar Ibrahim | King – Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar

167. India’s Ramkumar Ramanathan and Saketh Myneni defeated the French pair of Constantin
Kouzmine and Maxime Janvier in the Men’s Doubles final to win their second ATP Challenger at
the “Bengaluru Open 2024” at the KSLTA Tennis Stadium. Italy’s Stefano Napolitano defeated
South Korea’s Seongchan Hong to clinch the Men’s Singles title. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ramkumar Ramanathan + Saketh Myneni (India) = won Men’s Doubles in ATP Challenger at “Bengaluru Open 2024”
• They defeated – Constantin Kouzmine & Maxime Janvier (France)
• Men’s Singles was won by – Stefano Napolitano (Italy) | He defeated – Seongchan Hong (South Korea)

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168. World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen defeated GM Fabiano Caruana in the final classical game to
win the inaugural “2024 Freestyle Chess G.O.A.T. Challenge” and the $60,000 top prize. GM
Levon Aronian took third place with a powerful win over GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov. The
Freestyle Chess G.O.A.T. Challenge was an 8-player over-the-board classical Fischer random
chess tournament that took place at Gut Weißenhaus in Wangels, Germany from February 9-
16, 2024. It was the first major Fischer random chess tournament that used classical chess time controls. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Magnus Carlsen – won “2024 Freestyle Chess G.O.A.T. Challenge” in Wangels, Germany (defeating Fabiano Caruana)
• HQs of FIDE – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Arkady Dvorkovich | Founded on – July 20, 1924

169. 8-year-old Indian-origin player Ashwath Kaushik has set a world record by
becoming the youngest person in history to defeat a grandmaster in classical
chess. Aged 8 years, 6 months & 11 days, Ashwath defeated 37-year-old Polish
Grandmaster Jacek Stopa at the 22nd ‘Burgdorfer Stadthaus-Open’ in
Switzerland. This was Kaushik’s 4th consecutive win at the tournament, where
he managed to break the record set by Leonid Ivanovic from Serbia. The feat
places Kaushik on a prestigious list of young players to defeat grandmasters in
classical chess - a list that includes Indian prodigies like R Praggnanandhaa and Gukesh D. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashwath Kaushik – became youngest person in history to defeat a grandmaster in classical chess
• His age – 8 years, 6 months & 11 days | He defeated – Polish Grandmaster Jacek Stopa (37 Years)
• This world record is set at – 22nd ‘Burgdorfer Stadthaus-Open’ in Switzerland
• The previous record was set by – Leonid Ivanovic (Serbia)
• HQs of FIDE – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Arkady Dvorkovich | Founded on – July 20, 1924

170. On February 25, India’s Abhay Singh won the “Goodfellow Classic 2024” squash tournament in
Toronto, Canada after defeating Wales’ Elliott Morris Devred in the final. The Goodfellow Classic, a
PSA Challenger Tour squash event, only featured a men’s singles competition. Abhay Singh, the world
No. 66, was the top seed at the meet. This was Abhay’s second PSA Challenger win of the season,
having won the men’s singles event at the Willingdon Little Masters and Senior Tournament in
Mumbai in January 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Goodfellow Classic 2024” – held in Toronto, Canada
• Abhay Singh (India) – won this squash tournament defeating Elliott Morris Devred (Wales)
• It was the second PSA Challenger win of the season for Abhay Singh (world’s No. 66)
• He won men’s singles event at ‘Willingdon Little Masters & Senior Tournament’ in Mumbai (Jan 2024)
• Canada – Ottawa – Canadian Dollar | PM – Justin Trudeau

171. Indian shuttlers won 18 medals (3 gold, 4 silver, 11 bronze) at the “BWF Para Badminton
World Championships 2024” held in Pattaya, Thailand. Three gold medal winners are Suhas
Yathiraj (men’s singles SL 4), Krishna Nagar (men’s singles SH 6), and Pramod Bhagat (men’s
Singles SL 3). Four silver medalist are Manisha Ramadass (women’s singles SU 5), Chirag Baretha
& Rajkumar (men’s doubles SU 5), Manasi Joshi & Thulasimathi Murugesan (women’s doubles SL
3 - SU 5), and Rachana Patel & Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan (women’s doubles SH 6). {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• “BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024” – held in Pattaya, Thailand
• Indian shuttlers – won 18 medals (3 gold, 4 silver, 11 bronze)
• Gold medalists:
- Suhas Yathiraj (men’s singles SL 4)
- Krishna Nagar (men’s singles SH 6)
- Pramod Bhagat (men’s Singles SL 3)
• Silver medalists:
- Manisha Ramadass (women’s singles SU 5)
- Chirag Baretha & Rajkumar (men’s doubles SU 5)
- Manasi Joshi & Thulasimathi Murugesan (women’s doubles SL 3 - SU 5)
- Rachana Patel & Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan (women’s doubles SH 6)
• HQs of BWF – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | President – Poul-Erik Hoyer Larsen

172. Qatar defeated Jordan to win the “AFC Asian Cup 2023”, the quadrennial
international football tournament organised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)
from 12 January to 10 February, 2024, in Qatar. The tournament involved 24 national
teams after its expansion in 2019, with the host Qatar the defending champions. Qatar’s
Akram Afif was named ‘Best Player of the Tournament’ as well as ‘Top Scorer of the
Tournament’. While Qatar’s Meshaal Barsham was named ‘Best Goalkeeper’. Qatar
hosted Asia’s showpiece men’s football tournament for a third time having previously
hosted in 1988 and 2011. Japan is most successful team in the history of AFC Asian Cup Football Tournament with 4 titles.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “AFC Asian Cup 2023” – is a quadrennial international football tournament & it was organised by AFC in Qatar
• Qatar – won the tournament (defeating – Jordan)
- ‘Best Player of the Tournament’ – Akram Afif (Qatar)
- ‘Top Scorer of the Tournament’ – Akram Afif (Qatar)
- ‘Best Goalkeeper’ title – Meshaal Barsham (Qatar)
• Qatar – hosted Asia’s showpiece men’s football tournament for 3rd time | Previously hosted in – 1988 & 2011
• Japan – most successful team in the history of AFC Asian Cup Football Tournament with 4 titles
• HQs of AFC – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | President – Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa

173. The “2023 Africa Cup of Nations” (34th edition), delayed to January 2024, was played
in the Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, featuring 24 of the continent’s premier
men’s national teams. The hosts, Ivory Coast, won the tournament by defeating Nigeria
with a 2-1 win at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Nigeria’s William
Troost-Ekong was named ‘Best Player of the Tournament’. While, Equatorial Guinea’s
Emilio Nsue was named ‘Top Scorer’. South Africa’s team won ‘Fair Play Award’. {Read more}

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Persons in News
174. Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko has broken the world record for the most cumulative time
spent in space. The 59-year-old has now spent more than 878 days & 12 hours in space, surpassing
fellow Russian Gennady Padalka, who set the previous record of 878 days & 11 hours in 2015.
Kononenko has made five journeys to the International Space Station, dating back to 2008. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Oleg Kononenko (Russia) – world record for most cumulative time spent in space (878 days & 12 hrs)
• He surpassed Gennady Padalka (Russia) who set previous record of 878 days & 11 hrs in 2015
• Russia – Moscow – Russian Ruble | PM – Mikhail Mishustin | President – Vladimir Putin

175. Dr (Col) V K Gupta, a Delhi-based gastroenterologist, has become the first patient to be
declared cancer-free using India’s CAR-T cell therapy called “NexCAR19”, an indigenous cancer
treatment, which was recently approved for commercial use by the Central Drugs Standard Control
Organisation (CDSCO). NexCAR19 is developed by ImmunoACT, a company incubated at IIT Bombay,
and Tata Memorial Hospital. NexCAR19 is a treatment for B-cell cancers such as leukaemia and
lymphoma. The therapy in India is known to genetically reprogram a patient’s immune system to
fight cancer. In ‘Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell (CAR-T cell)’ therapy, T cells are taken from the patient and modified in
the laboratory to express a special protein called a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). It is then reinfused in the patient as
this CAR protein helps the T cells recognise and fight the cancer cells. Mr Gupta paid Rs 42 lakh for this treatment that
costs approximately Rs 3-4 Crore in abroad. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr (Col) V K Gupta – became 1st patient to be declared cancer-free using “NexCAR19”, India’s CAR-T cell therapy
• NexCAR19 is developed by = ImmunoACT (incubated at IIT Bombay) + Tata Memorial Hospital
• NexCAR19 – is an indigenous cancer treatment & it was recently approved for commercial use by CDSCO
• CAR-T cell – Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell
• Director of IIT Bombay – Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri

176. Superstar Vijay has launched a political party in Tamil Nadu, namely “Tamizha Vetri Kazhagam
(TVK)”, after leaders of the TVK appointed him as the party chief. Vijay is likely to enter the electoral
battlefield ahead of the assembly election due in Tamil Nadu in 2026. ‘Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam’
loosely translates to ‘Tamil Nadu Victory Party’. Vijay’s father is the celebrated film director
Chandrasekhar. Some of Vijay’s films have also taken controversial stands in targeting governments
over the years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Tamizha Vetri Kazhagam (TVK)” – political party launched by Superstar Vijay in Tamil Nadu
• Vijay is likely to enter assembly election in Tamil Nadu in 2026
• Tamil Nadu: Capital – Chennai | CM – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin | Governor – Ravindra Narayan Ravi

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177. Punjab has designated Indian cricketer Shubman Gill as a ‘state icon’ for the upcoming Lok Sabha
polls. Gill will engage in various campaigns aimed at voter awareness to ensure a voting percentage of
70%. The poll panel has set the target of “Is Vaar 70 Paar”. Punjab had recorded a voter turnout of
65.96% in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls for the 13 seats. Earlier, popular Punjabi singer Tarsem Jassar had
been selected as a ‘state icon’ and he too would conduct similar campaigns. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shubman Gill – designated as ‘state icon’ of Punjab for upcoming Lok Sabha polls
• Aim: To ensure a voting percentage of 70% by engaging him in various campaigns like “Is Vaar 70 Paar”
• Other ‘state icon’ – Tarsem Jassar (Punjabi singer)
• Punjab: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Bhagwant Mann | Governor – Banwarilal Purohit

Arts & Cultural Affairs

178. President Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the “Aadi Mahotsav 2024”, an annual National Tribal Festival at Major
Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. The event, organized by TRIFED under the aegis of the Ministry of Tribal
Affairs from February 10 to 18, will showcase the rich diversity of India’s tribal heritage. The festival will feature an
expanded showcase with over 300 stalls, offering varied display of Tribal art, handicrafts, natural produce, and delectable
tribal cuisine. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Droupadi Murmu – inaugurated “Aadi Mahotsav 2024” at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi
• It is an annual National Tribal Festival organized by – TRIFED under the aegis of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs
• Minister of Tribal Affairs: Arjun Munda | Constituency – Khunti, Jharkhand
• MoS in Ministry of Tribal Affairs: Bharati Pravin Pawar & Bishweswar Tudu
• HQs of TRIFED – New Delhi | Chairman – Ramsinh Rathwa

179. Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in collaboration

with the Ministry of Culture organised the 1st edition of “Vividdhta ka Amrit
Mahotsav” at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, from February 8 to 10, 2024. The
Mahotsav, inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu, served as a vibrant cultural
odyssey, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the attendees. The Mahotsav
featured 320+ stalls, each dedicated to showcasing the unique handicrafts,
handlooms, and agro products of the eight culturally rich states. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of DoNER + Ministry of Culture = organised 1st “Vividdhta ka Amrit Mahotsav” at Rashtrapati Bhavan
• Minister of DoNER: G. Kishan Reddy | Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana
• MoS in Ministry of DoNER – B. L. Verma
• Minister of Culture: G. Kishan Reddy | Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana
• MoS in Minister of Culture: Arjun Ram Meghwal & Meenakashi Lekhi

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180. Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the 51st
edition of “New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2024” at Bharat Mandapam,
New Delhi. The minister highlighted that this year’s theme of the fair
“Multilingual India: A Living Tradition” is celebrating India’s linguistic
diversity and global literary traditions. This year, the book fair invited Saudi
Arabia as the ‘Guest of Honour’ (Guest Country). The literary event was
organised by the National Book Trust (NBT) in collaboration with the India
Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO). Dharmendra Pradhan launched the app of the National Digital Libraries for All,
called “National e-library”, announced in the Budget 2023-34. It is a first-of-its-kind digital library for accessing a variety of
non-academic books for Children and Adolescents based on PM Narendra Modi’s vision statement, “When citizens read,
the country leads.” The National e-library shall provide accessibility in a device agnostic manner to age appropriate
reading material for 4 different age groups - 3-8 years, 8-11 years, 11-14 years, and 14-18 years. Shri Pradhan also unveiled
the innovative learning E-learning platform, ‘E-Jaadui Pitara’, which is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP)
2020, comprising puzzles, riddles, and stories. The minister also released the “Igniting Collective Goodness Mann ki Baat
@100” anthology, comprising 100 episodes of the radio show, and published by NBT-India in 12 languages. Sanjay Kumar
is the Chairman of National Book Trust (NBT). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dharmendra Pradhan – inaugurated 51st “New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2024” at Bharat Mandapam
• Theme – “Multilingual India: A Living Tradition” | Organised by = NBT + ITPO
• ‘Guest of Honour’ (Guest Country) – Saudi Arabia
• Dharmendra Pradhan – launched “National e-library” app
• App shall provide accessibility to reading material for 4 age groups - 3-8 yrs, 8-11 yrs, 11-14 yrs, and 14-18 yrs
• Dharmendra Pradhan – also unveiled innovative learning E-learning platform, ‘E-Jaadui Pitara’
• He also released the “Igniting Collective Goodness Mann ki Baat @100” anthology
• The anthology is published by NBT-India in 12 languages
• HQs of NBT – Delhi | Chairman – Sanjay Kumar

181. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan inaugurated the Defence Literature
Festival, “Kalam and Kavach”, in Pune, Maharashtra. The fest was hosted by Army
Southern Command along with Pentagon Press under the theme “Confluence of Ancient
Wisdom for Modern Security”. The festival also celebrated the launch of some significant
books, covering diverse themes from global geopolitics to the role of AI in national
security. These included “Russia, Gaza, Taiwan. A World at War” by Ajay Singh, and “A.I.
and National Security” by Col Amit Sinha and Vijay Khare, among others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CDS General Anil Chauhan – inaugurated the Defence Literature Festival, “Kalam and Kavach”, in Pune
• The fest was hosted by = Army Southern Command + Pentagon Press
• Theme – “Confluence of Ancient Wisdom for Modern Security”
• The festival also celebrated the launch of some significant books:
- “Russia, Gaza, Taiwan. A World at War” – by Ajay Singh
- “A.I. and National Security” – by Col Amit Sinha & Vijay Khare
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – Lt. Gen. Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. General Upendra Dwivedi

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Science & Technology
182. Elon Musk announced that his startup, Neuralink, has installed a Brain implant in
its first human patient with ‘promising’ initial results. The neurotechnology company
co-founded by Musk in 2016 aims to build direct communication channels between the
brain and computers. The ambition is to supercharge human capabilities, treat
neurological disorders like ALS or Parkinson’s, and achieve a symbiotic relationship
between humans and artificial intelligence in future. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Neuralink (founded by Elon Musk in 2016) – installed a Brain implant in its first human patient
• Aim – to supercharge human capabilities, treat neurological disorders, & achieve a symbiotic relationship between
humans & AI
• HQs of Neuralink – California, US | CEO – Jared Birchall

183. A ‘Green Propulsion System’, developed under the Technology

Development Fund (TDF) scheme of Defence Research Development
Organisation (DRDO), has successfully demonstrated in-orbit functionality on a
payload launched by PSLV C-58 mission. This project was sanctioned to a
Bengaluru-based start-up Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd. The telemetry data from
PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and
Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru has been validated with ground level
solution, and is found to have exceeded all performance parameters. The TDF is
a flagship programme of Ministry of Defence executed by DRDO under the
‘Make in India’ initiative for funding innovation in defence and aerospace, especially to start-ups and MSMEs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – successfully tested ‘Green Propulsion System’ on a payload launched by PSLV C-58 mission
• It is developed under TDF scheme of DRDO
• This project was sanctioned to – Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based start-up
• TDF – a flagship programme of Ministry of Defence executed by DRDO under the ‘Make in India’ initiative
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

184. The Kochi-based ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) has
embarked on a pioneering initiative to develop lab-grown fish meat. In line with this,
CMFRI has entered into a collaborative research agreement with Delhi-based Neat Meatt
Biotech, a start-up working towards developing cultivated meat, to launch this initiative in
the public-private partnership mode. The project aims to establish India’s place in the field
of cultured marine fish meat to address the growing demand for seafood and reduce excessive pressure on wild resources.
Cultivated fish meat or lab grown fish meat is produced by isolating specific cells from fish and growing them in laboratory
setting using animal component free media. CMFRI Director A. Gopalakrishnan and co-founder and CEO of Neat Meatt
Biotech Sandeep Sharma signed an MoU in this regard. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICAR-CMFRI + Neat Meatt Biotech – an MoU to develop lab-grown fish meat
• Aim – to establish India’s place in field of cultured marine fish meat

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185. The Capacity Building Commission (CBC), in collaboration with the Office of the
Principal Scientific Adviser (Office of PSA) to the Government of India, launched the
“Young Scientists Induction Training Programme” at the Indian Institute of
Management-Visakhapatnam (IIM-V). IIM Visakhapatnam has become the 1st IIM in
India to be awarded such training programme by the union government. As many as
55 young scientists from different Science and Technology (S&T) Ministries and
Departments have enrolled in the first cohort. The program is expected to provide
practical exposure to new-age research and technology concepts, and enhance the functional, behavioural, and domain
skills of the participants. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CBC + Office of PSA = launched the “Young Scientists Induction Training Programme” at IIM Visakhapatnam
• IIM Visakhapatnam – became the 1st IIM in India to be awarded such training programme by the Union Govt
• As many as 55 young scientists from different S&T Ministries and Departments have enrolled in the first cohort

186. The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) has partnered
with ISRO for “NISAR Phase II” research programme. NASA and ISRO are
collaboratively developing ‘NISAR’ (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar),
scheduled for launch in 2024. NISAR aims to revolutionise earth resource
observation by providing high-resolution data for extensive areas. This project
holds significant potential for the systematic monitoring of agriculture, forestry,
wetlands, and soil moisture estimation. The first phase involved the validation of
ground truth data in the forest biomass of Shimoga, Hoshangabad (MP), and Nilambur regions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• KUFOS + ISRO = partnered for “NISAR Phase II” research programme
• NASA + ISRO = developing ‘NISAR’ (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar), scheduled for launch in 2024
• Aim – to revolutionise earth resource observation by providing high-resolution data for extensive areas
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

187. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has discovered a

‘Super-Earth’ that could potentially support life, located 137 light-years away
from the Earth. The planet, named “TOI-715 b”, orbits a small, red dwarf star
within the “conservative” habitable zone, where liquid water could exist on its
surface. The planet is about one and a half times as wide as Earth, and
completes a full orbit around its star in just 19 days. TOI-715 b was discovered
by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), which was launched in
2018 to search for planets around nearby stars. A super-Earth is a planet that is larger than Earth but smaller than
Neptune, the smallest gas giant in our solar system. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NASA (through TESS) – discovered ‘Super-Earth’ (TOI-715 b), located 137 light-years away from the Earth
• It is about one & a half times as wide as Earth, & completes a full orbit around its star in 19 days

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188. IIT Kanpur successfully established and tested India’s first Hypervelocity Expansion Tunnel Test Facility, named “S2”.
This is a major achievement that puts India amongst a handful of countries with this advanced hypersonic testing
capability. The development of the facility was supported by the Fund for Improvement in S&T Infrastructure (FIST) of the
Department of Science & Technology (DST) with a sum of Rs 4.5 Crore. The facility was developed by the Hypersonic
Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory at the Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Kanpur. It is capable of
generating flight speeds between 3-10 km/s, simulating the hypersonic condition. It was indigenously designed and
developed and is a valuable test facility for ongoing missions of ISRO and DRDO including Gaganyaan, RLV and hypersonic
cruise missiles. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Kanpur – successfully established & tested India’s 1st Hypervelocity Expansion Tunnel Test Facility, named “S2”
• The development was supported by – Fund for Improvement in S&T Infrastructure (FIST) of DST with Rs 4.5 Cr
• The facility was developed by – Hypersonic Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory of IIT Kanpur
• Director of IIT Kanpur – Abhay Karandikar

189. Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, launched the
“Digital India FutureLABS” to catalyse the next generation of systems in automotive,
industrial IoT, communication, compute and strategic electronics sectors. This platform is
developed at the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi) and it
will be managed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), under
MeitY. The capital allocation to this platform will be of Rs 1 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rajeev Chandrasekhar – launched “Digital India FutureLABS”
• This platform is developed at – Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi)
• It will be managed by – C-DAC (under MeitY) | Capital allocation – Rs 1 lakh crore
• Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
• MoS in Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

190. Bihar State Disaster Management Authority has introduced a device, called the “Novel
Initiative Technological Intervention for Safety of Humanlives (NITISH)”, for farmers and
common people to alert them on natural disasters. Developed in collaboration with IIT Patna,
the pendant-shaped device will sound alert to its users through voice message on lightning,
floods, heatwaves and coldwaves. The device is synced with the Bihar meteorological service
centre. The pendant will get charged from body heat. The device will sound an alert in three
ways: it will send voice messages; its colour will change from green to red; and the device will
keep warming till its user switches it off. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bihar – introduced a device, called NITISH for farmers & common people to alert them on natural disasters
• NITISH – Novel Initiative Technological Intervention for Safety of Humanlives
• Developed by = Bihar State Disaster Management Authority + IIT Patna
• Bihar: Capital – Patna | CM – Nitish Kumar | Governor – Rajendra Vishwanath Arleka

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191. NASA has launched a new satellite mission, known as “PACE” (Plankton, Aerosol,
Climate, ocean Ecosystem), to study ocean health, air quality, and the effects of a
changing climate for the benefit of humanity. It is the most advanced mission ever
launched to study ocean biology. It was launched aboard a ‘SpaceX Falcon 9’ rocket from
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. From hundreds of miles above Earth, the
PACE mission will study the impact of tiny, often invisible things: microscopic life in water
and microscopic particles in the air. With the combination of the instrument and the
polarimeters, PACE will provide insights into the interactions of the ocean and atmosphere, and how a changing climate
affects these interactions. In addition, PACE will feature two polarimeters - the Spectro-polarimeter for Planetary
Exploration (SPEXone) and the Hyper Angular Research Polarimeter (HARP2). The PACE mission is managed by NASA
Goddard, which built the ‘Ocean Color Instrument (OCI)’, the primary science instrument for PACE which is designed to
measure the ocean’s color across a spectrum from ultraviolet to shortwave infrared. Current Earth-observing satellites can
see in seven or eight colors, according to Werdell. Pace will see in 200 colors that will allow scientists to identify the types
of algae in the sea and types of particles in the air. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NASA – launched a new satellite mission “PACE” & it is most advanced mission ever launched to study ocean biology
• Aim – to study ocean health, air quality, and the effects of a changing climate for the benefit of humanity
• PACE – Plankton, Aerosol, Climate, ocean Ecosystem
• Managed by – NASA Goddard | Launched aboard – ‘SpaceX Falcon 9’ rocket
• PACE will feature 2 polarimeters:
• Spectro-polarimeter for Planetary Exploration (SPEXone)
• Hyper Angular Research Polarimeter (HARP2)
• Current Earth-observing satellites can see in 7 or 8 colors & PACE will see in 200 colors
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

192. Microsoft announced an initiative, called “ADVANTAG(I)GE INDIA”, to

equip 2 million peoplein India with artificial intelligence (AI) skills by 2025. The
programme intends to push India’s AI transformation and empower its
workforce for jobs in the future. The announcement is part of Microsoft’s
wider ‘Skills for Jobs’ initiative, which aligns with the company’s ‘Responsible
AI’ principles. Training will be given through partnerships with the
government, non-profit firms, and businesses across the country. The goal of
ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA is to bridge the gap in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities by training
individuals while also focusing on rural areas to ensure AI-induced progress is
more inclusive. In-depth training in AI technical skills will also be given to 1,00,000 young women through 5,000 trainers at
higher education institutions in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Microsoft will provide access to Azure AI services to facilitate this.
Moreover, Microsoft has partnered with India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship as well as 10 state
governments to provide basic and advanced training in AI to 5,00,000 students and job seekers in 100 rural vocational
education institutions and training centres. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Microsoft – announced an initiative, called “ADVANTAG(I)GE INDIA” as part of its wider ‘Skills for Jobs’ initiative
• Aim – to equip 2 million people in India with AI skills by 2025
• Microsoft – will provide access to Azure AI services to facilitate this
• Microsoft – partnered with MSDE & 10 state govts to provide training in AI to 5,00,000 students & job seekers

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193. Chennai-based private space-tech startup, Agnikul Cosmos, is set to launch India’s first-ever private launchpad and
the 2nd ever rocket launch by a private sector player. Its launch vehicle ‘Agnibaan’ will take off from Satish Dhawan Space
Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, during the current financial year 2023-24. Agnibaan is a customizable, 2-stage
launch vehicle which can take up to 300 kg (about 660 lb) of payload to orbits around 700 km (435 miles). Agnibaan is fully
mobile and can access more than 10 launchports. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Agnikul Cosmos – set to launch India’s 1st-ever private launchpad & 2nd ever rocket launch by a private sector player
• Launch vehicle – ‘Agnibaan’ (fully mobile & can access more than 10 launchports)
• Agnibaan – a customizable, 2-stage launch vehicle which can take up to 300 kg of payload to orbits around 700 km
• HQs of Agnikul Cosmos – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Co-Founder & CEO – Srinath Ravichandran

194. Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India, Prof Ajay Kumar Sood,
launched the “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” portal, on the
occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Indian National Science
Academy (INSA), New Delhi. The portal is aimed at representing girls in STEMM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine). It seeks to encourage women to
enter the field of science in academia and industry. The portal, first-of-its-kind in India, is
a complete interactive database developed, hosted and maintained by the National
Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR). This is the world’s first interactive portal of its kind. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prof Ajay Kumar Sood – launched “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” portal
• Aim – representing girls in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine)
• The database is hosted & maintained by – National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR)
• This is the world’s first interactive portal of its kind

195. S Krishnan, Secretary of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), inaugurated the “Centre of
Excellence (CoE) on E-waste Management” facility at Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET), Hyderabad.
It is the joint initiative of the MeitY and Telangana government. The C-MET has established (CoE) first of its kind in India
under the PPP model. The CoE has developed various e-waste recycling technologies viz. spent PCB, Li Ion Battery,
Permanent magnet and Si-solar cells. While, C-MET is an autonomous scientific society under Meity. It has three R&D
laboratories located at Pune, Hyderabad and Thrissur. The materials extracted from E-Waste will be beneficial for
resilience for the supply chain of the upcoming semiconductor industry. India generates around 3.2 Million Tonnes per
year of electronic waste as reported in 2019. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• S Krishnan – inaugurated the “Centre of Excellence (CoE) on E-waste Management” facility under the PPP model
• It was inaugurated at – Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET), Hyderabad
• It is a joint initiative of = MeitY + Telangana Govt. | C-MET – an autonomous scientific society under Meity
• India – generates around 3.2 Million Tonnes per year of electronic waste as reported in 2019
• Minister of Electronics & Information Technology: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha

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196. Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that a female robot astronaut ‘Vyommitra’ will
fly into space ahead of ISRO’s ambitious ‘Gaganyaan’ mission, which will be India’s first human-
manned space flight carrying Indian astronauts into space. The uncrewed “Vyommitra” mission
is scheduled for the third quarter (Q3) of 2024, while a manned mission “Gaganyaan” is
scheduled to be launched in 2025. Vyommitra is a name derived from two Sanskrit words,
namely, “Vyoma” (meaning space) and “Mitra” (meaning friend). The Gaganyaan project will
launch a crew of astronauts into an orbit of 400 kilometers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vyommitra – will fly into space ahead of ISRO’s ambitious ‘Gaganyaan’ mission
• It will be India’s first human-manned space flight carrying Indian astronauts into space
• Uncrewed “Vyommitra” mission – scheduled for the third quarter (Q3) of 2024
• Manned mission “Gaganyaan” – scheduled to be launched in 2025
• Vyommitra (derived from 2 Sanskrit words) = “Vyoma” (space) + “Mitra” (friend)
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

197. India’s space telescope AstroSat has measured X-ray polarisation from the
“Cygnus X-1” black hole, the first time that such a feat has been accomplished.
It opens new possibilities in the study of the black hole’s environment.
Polarisation characteristics of X-rays, which tells scientists about the
orientation of the oscillating electric field, holds clues on the geometry and
other properties of the black hole. This study for the first time connected the
hard X-ray radiation to the black hole jet. Cygnus X-1 is twenty times heavier
than the Sun. Discovered over 4 decades ago, Cygnus X-1 is one of the first confirmed black hole systems in our galaxy,
located at a distance that is about 400 times more than the distance between Earth and Sun. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AstroSat (India’s space telescope) – measured X-ray polarisation from “Cygnus X-1” black hole (for the first time)
• Cygnus X-1 – twenty times heavier than the Sun & it is one of the first confirmed black hole systems in our galaxy

198. NASA has started a series of marathon flights in Asia with the world’s biggest
flying laboratory, “Douglas DC-8”, under the project ‘ASIA-AQ’. The DC-8 is the world’s
largest aircraft designed for airborne science missions. It can fly for up to 8 hours at a
time, sometimes as low as 50 feet above the ground. The project, named ASIA-AQ, is
a collaboration between the US agency and governments in a region with some of the
highest air pollution-linked death rates in the world. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NASA – started a series of marathon flights in Asia with “Douglas DC-8”, world’s biggest flying laboratory
• The flights are started under – project ‘ASIA-AQ’
• ASIA-AQ – is a collaboration between US agency & govts in a region with some of highest air pollution-linked death
rates in the world
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

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199. The Indian Space Research organisation (ISRO) launched the “INSAT-3D” meteorological
satellite aboard ‘GSLV F14’ rocket from Sathish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota,
Andhra Pradesh. The INSAT-3DS satellite is a follow-on mission of the 3rd generation
meteorological satellite from geostationary orbit. The satellite is fully funded by Ministry of Earth
Sciences. The INSAT-3DS satellite will augment meteorological services along with the presently
operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR in-orbit satellites. The satellite is an exclusive mission
designed for enhanced meteorological observations, monitoring of land and ocean surfaces for
weather forecasting, and disaster warning. GSLV is one of the three main rockets used by ISRO for carrying its satellites,
the other two being PSLV & LVM3 (earlier called GSLV-MkIII). The GSLV (Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle) was termed the
“naughty boy” of Indian space due to its repeated failures in the past. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO – launched “INSAT-3DS” meteorological satellite aboard ‘GSLV F14’ rocket from Sathish Dhawan Space Centre
• INSAT-3DS satellite – a follow-on mission of 3rd generation meteorological satellite from geostationary orbit
• The satellite is fully funded by – Ministry of Earth Sciences
• Presently operational other 2 satellites – INSAT-3D & INSAT-3DR
• 3 main rockets used by ISRO for carrying its satellites – GSLV, PSLV & LVM3
• GSLV was termed as “naughty boy” of Indian space due to its repeated failures in the past
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

200. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, along with
the Centre for Climate Change Research (CCCR), is developing India’s first
“Earth System Model (ESM)” to improve climate forecasts and predict
climate impacts. The model is expected to be completed by 2025 and will
provide reliable future projections of global and regional climate,
including Indian monsoon rainfall. The model will integrate various
components of the Earth system, such as the atmosphere, ocean, land,
ice, and biosphere, to estimate climate under different conditions. An
amount of Rs 192.28 Crore has been sanctioned under the ‘Monsoon
Convection, Clouds and Climate Change (MC4)’ sub scheme to develop the climate forecasting system. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IITM, Pune + CCCR = developing India’s first “Earth System Model (ESM)” | It is expected to be completed by 2025
• Aim – improve climate forecasts & predict climate impacts
• Sanctioned amount under ‘Monsoon Convection, Clouds & Climate Change (MC4)’ sub scheme – Rs 192.28 Cr

201. Japan and the US are planning to launch the world’s first wooden satellite, the “LignoSat” probe, into space in 2024.
This unusual spacecraft is made up of magnolia wood which, during the experiments, was found to be particularly stable
and resistant to cracking. The wooden satellite was created by Japanese scientists and now the US has become a part of
their mission as they finalized the satellite to be launched on a US rocket. In a pioneering effort to address the growing
issue of space debris, the researchers at Kyoto University came up with this idea of using an alternative to metal, which
are biodegradable material. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Japan + US = to launch “LignoSat” probe, world’s 1st wooden satellite, into space in 2024
• This spacecraft is made up of ‘magnolia wood’
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

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202. AIIMS, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), Pune, has
launched an AI platform, “iOncology.ai”, to exploit the power of AI in healthcare by facilitating early detection of Cancer.
Cancer is globally estimated to be the most fatal disease than those from cardiovascular in high-income countries (HICs),
and middle-income countries (MICs). According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) estimates, there were 19.3
million cancer cases worldwide for the year 2020. India ranked 3rd after China and the USA. In India, over 8 lakh deaths
were caused due to Cancer in the year 2022. As breast and ovarian cancers are reported to be the most common cause of
cancer amongst women in India, the first application of the iOncology.ai platform has been done by AIIMS in these two
domains. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AIIMS, New Delhi + CDAC, Pune = launched an AI platform, “iOncology.ai”
• Aim – to exploit the power of AI in healthcare by facilitating early detection of Cancer
• There were 19.3 million cancer cases worldwide in 2020 | India – ranked 3rd | Top – China | 2nd – USA
• Over 8 lakh deaths were caused due to Cancer in India in 2022
• Most common cause of cancer amongst women in India – Breast & Ovarian cancers
• Director of AIIMS, Delhi – M. Srinivas
• HQs of C-DAC – Pune, Maharashtra | Senior Director – Mahesh Kulkarni (functions under MeitY)

203. On February 22, the “Odysseus” spacecraft of the United States successfully landed on the
moon, becoming the first American spacecraft to achieve the feat in more than 50 years. With this,
Intuitive Machines (IM), the commercial venture which built the Nova-C (Odysseus) lander, has
become the first private venture to carry out a successful landing on the lunar surface. This marks
the first American soft landing on the lunar surface since the Apollo era in 1972. The ‘Odysseus’,
nicknamed ‘Odie’ or ‘IM-1’, was launched by SpaceX onboard the Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in
Florida, US. Among private space ventures, Israel’s ‘Beresheet’ attempted in 2019, Japan’s ‘Hakuto’ in 2023 and the
American ‘Peregrine’ in 2024. But all of them failed to successfully land on the Moon. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Odysseus” spacecraft of the US – successfully landed on the moon (1st American soft landing on lunar since 1972)
• “Odysseus” (Nova-C), the robotic lunar lander – was launched by SpaceX onboard Falcon 9 rocket
• ‘Odysseus’ is nicknamed ‘Odie’ or ‘IM-1’ | This lander is built by – Intuitive Machines (Houston, US)
• Intuitive Machines – the first private venture to carry out a successful landing on the lunar surface
• Other failed attempts: Israel’s ‘Beresheet’ (2019), Japan’s ‘Hakuto’ (2023) & USA’s ‘Peregrine’ (2024)
• US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris

204. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has partnered

with Microsoft and iCreate to launch the “iMPEL AI (iCreate-Microsoft
Programme for Emerging Leaders in Artificial Intelligence)”, to transform &
boost AI startups in India. The iMPEL-AI programme will screen 1100 AI
innovators across India to become AI Most Valuable Players (MVPs) and focus
on priority themes of healthcare, financial inclusion, sustainability, education,
agriculture, and smart cities. In the second stage, the programme will select
and scale 100 startups across India to build with Azure OpenAI, and the top 25 will receive go-to-market support from
Microsoft’s Global Network to develop advanced, globally competitive products. Avinash Punekar is the CEO of iCreate.
{Read more}

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Smart Points:
• MeitY + Microsoft + iCreate = partnered to launch “iMPEL AI” to transform & boost AI startups in India
• iMPEL AI = iCreate-Microsoft Programme for Emerging Leaders in Artificial Intelligence
• It will screen 1100 AI innovators to be AI MVPs & in 2nd stage, it will scale 100 startups to build with Azure OpenAI
• Top 25 startups will receive go-to-market support from Microsoft’s Global Network
• HQs of iCreate – Ahmedabad | CEO – Avinash Punekar
• HQs of Microsoft – Washington, US | Chairman & CEO – Satya Nadella | Founded in – 1975
• Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
• MoS in Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

205. Skyroot Aerospace, the leading space technology company based in Hyderabad, launched
the “Kalpana Fellowship”, first-of-its-kind fellowship program inspired by the legacy of
astronaut Kalpana Chawla and dedicated exclusively to women in the space sector. The
fellowship is designed to inspire, encourage, and empower the next generation of female
engineers in the space industry. The program provides a monthly allowance for a year to
successful candidates, with eligibility open to final year students and recent graduates in
relevant engineering disciplines to apply. Skyroot Aerospace has the distinction of launching India’s first privately
developed rocket into space. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Skyroot Aerospace (Hyderabad) – launched “Kalpana Fellowship,” dedicated to women in space sector
• Fellowship is designed to inspire, encourage & next generation of female engineers in space industry
• Skyroot Aerospace – has earlier launched India’s 1st privately developed rocket into space
• HQs of Skyroot Aerospace – Hyderabad, Telangana | CEO – Pawan Kumar Chandana

206. Japan has successfully launched an “Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-

Japan (ADRAS-J)” spacecraft from New Zealand. It has been designed to inspect
and potentially remove any man-made space debris from around the Earth.
Astroscale Japan has initiated this Active Debris Removal mission, aiming to
rendezvous with and inspect a Japanese H2A rocket fragment that has orbited
space for 15 years. Chosen by JAXA for its debris removal initiative, ADRAS-J
stands as the inaugural spacecraft of its category. Its primary objective is to
eliminate sizable debris of Japanese origin through collaboration with private enterprises. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Japan – launched an “Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J)” spacecraft from New Zealand
• It has been designed to inspect and potentially remove any man-made space debris from around the Earth
• ADRAS-J – is the inaugural spacecraft of its category (debris removal initiative)
• It will eliminate sizable debris of Japanese origin through collaboration with private enterprises
• This Active Debris Removal mission is initiated by – Astroscale Japan
• Aim – to rendezvous with & inspect a Japanese H2A rocket fragment that has orbited space for 15 years
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

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207. Mumbai-based Assert SecureTech Pvt Ltd launched “Pratham”, world’s first user
friendly video analytics platform. It is patented for its innovative approach to
democratizing computer vision and artificial intelligence. With Pratham, users can
unlock the potential of Vision AI technology without the need for coding or AI expertise.
Pratham allows users to effortlessly upload videos or connect their CCTV cameras
directly to the platform. Pratham, which translates to ‘first’ in Hindi, employs an innovative framework that places the
power of computer vision directly into the hands of users, allowing them to analyze and utilize video data effortlessly.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Assert SecureTech Pvt Ltd (Mumbai) – launched “Pratham”, world’s first user friendly video analytics platform
• It is patented for its innovative approach to democratizing computer vision & A.I.
• Pratham allows its users to:
- unlock potential of Vision AI technology without need for coding or AI expertise
- effortlessly upload videos or connect their CCTV cameras directly to platform

208. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the names of the four
astronauts that will fly to low-Earth orbit as part of the Indian Space
Research Organisation’s (ISRO) “Gaganyaan” mission, which will be the first
crewed Indian space mission. Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair,
Angad Prathap, Ajit Krishnan and Shubanshu Shukla have been selected to be
the astronauts on India’s first human space flight program. PM Modi also
visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
The 4 astronauts have been undergoing training at the space agency’s
astronaut training facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka. ISRO and Glavkosmos (a subsidiary of Russian space agency Roscosmos)
signed an MoU for the training of 4 astronauts in June 2019. The 4 astronauts were trained at Russia’s Yuri Gagarin
Cosmonaut Training Centre in February 2020 till March 2021. The Gaganyaan mission will demonstrate India’s human
spaceflight capability by launching astronauts to an orbit 400 kilometres above the Earth for a 3-day mission. Among other
feats, India now aims for launching the ‘Gaganyaan Mission’ in 2024-2025, setting up ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ by
2035, and sending the first Indian to the Moon by 2040. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi announced names of 4 astronauts to fly to low-Earth orbit as part of ISRO’s “Gaganyaan” mission:
- Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair (Group Captain)
- Angad Prathap
- Ajit Krishnan
- Shubanshu Shukla
• “Gaganyaan” mission, 1st crewed Indian space mission – to be launched in – 2024-25
• It will demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capability by launching astronauts to an orbit 400 km above the Earth
• ISRO + Glavkosmos (Russia) = an MoU for training of 4 astronauts (June 2019)
• Among other feats: Bharatiya Antariksha Station – to be set up by 2035 | 1st Indian will be sent to Moon – by 2040
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

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209. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced to organise a
special programme for School Children, called “YUVIKA - YUva VIgyani
KAryakram” (Young Scientist Programme) from May 13 to 24, 2024. The
key objective of this initiative is to impart basic knowledge on Space
Science, Space Technology and Space Applications to the younger
students in emerging trends in space science and technology. YUVIKA
programme is also expected to encourage more students to pursue in
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) based
research and aligned career. The programme will be organised at 7 centres of ISRO - Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC),
Thiruvananthapuram; U. R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru; Satish Dhavan Space Center (SDSC) Sriharikota; Indian
Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun; Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad; National Remote Sensing
Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad; and North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC), Shillong. The programme was
conducted successfully in 2019, 2022 and 2023 with the participation of 111, 153 and 337 students respectively,
representing each and every State and Union Territory of India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO – announced to organise a special programme for School Children, called “YUVIKA”
• YUVIKA – YUva VIgyani KAryakram
• Objective – impart basic knowledge on Space Science, Space Technology & Space Applications to younger students
• It is also expected to encourage more students to pursue in STEM
• The programme will be organised at 7 centres of ISRO:
- Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram
- U. R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru
- Satish Dhavan Space Center (SDSC) Sriharikota
- Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun
- Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad
- National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad
- North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC), Shillong
• The programme was conducted successfully in 2019, 2022 and 2023
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

Appointments & Resignations

210. The Central Government notified the appointment of four full-time members for the 16th Finance
Commission, which is chaired by the first NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman and Columbia University Professor
Arvind Panagariya. Former Expenditure Secretary Ajay Narayan Jha, who was also part of the 15th
Finance Commission, Annie George Mathew, former Special Secretary in the Expenditure Department
of the Finance Ministry, Economist Niranjan Rajadhyaksha and SBI’s Group Chief Economic Adviser
Soumya Kanti Ghosh were named as members. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre appointed 4 full-time members for the 16th FC (chaired by Arvind Panagariya)
- Ajay Narayan Jha (Former Expenditure Secretary)

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211. Former Railway Board Chief Anil Kumar Lahoti has been appointed as the Chairman of
the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), after the position fell vacant 4 months
back. Former Chief P. D. Vaghela vacated the post in November 2023 after his two-year
tenure ended. Lahoti will replace TRAI member Meenakshi Gupta who was given the
additional charge of the top post for the time being. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anil Kumar Lahoti – appointed as Chairman of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (replacing - Meenakshi Gupta)
• HQs of TRAI – New Delhi | Chairman – Anil Kumar Lahoti | Established in – 1997

212. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Champai Soren became the 7th person to take oath as
Jharkhand’s Chief Minister, after the dramatic arrest of his predecessor Hemant Soren over money
laundering allegations. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Satyanand Bhokta and Congress MLA Alamgir
Alam also took oath as Cabinet Ministers in a swearing-in ceremony. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Champai Soren (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha ) – became 7th person to take oath as Jharkhand’s Chief Minister
• Jharkhand: Capital – Ranchi | CM – Champai Soren | Governor – C. P. Radhakrishnan

213. Vice Admiral Lochan Singh Pathania assumed charge as the Chief Hydrographer to the
Government of India. Commissioned in the Executive branch of the Indian Navy in 1990, he is a
Hydrography Specialist. The Flag Officer has commanded IN Ships Darshak and Sandhayak. He has held
various important shore appointments being Interviewing Officer & Deputy President of Naval
Selection Board, Principal Director (Hydrography) at NHQ, Officer-in-Charge, National Hydrographic
Office (NHO) and Joint Chief Hydrographer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lochan Singh Pathania – assumed charge as Chief Hydrographer to GoI (succeeding - Vice Admiral Adhir Arora)
• Chief Hydrographer of India – Vice Admiral Lochan Singh Pathania

214. The Union Ministry of Law and Justice notified the appointments of
new Chief Justices (CJs) across 6 High Courts (HCs). Justice Manindra
Mohan Shrivastava, who was the acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan
High Court, has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Rajasthan
High Court. Justice Arun Bhansali of Rajasthan High Court has been
appointed as Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court. Another judge of
the Rajasthan High Court, Justice Vijay Bishnoi, will now be the new Chief
Justice of the Gauhati High Court. Justice S. Vaidyanathan, judge of the Madras High Court, has been appointed as the new
Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court. Justice Ritu Bahri, acting Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court, has
been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court. Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh of the Patna
High Court has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• Ministry of Law & Justice – appointed 6 new Chief Justices (CJs) across 6 High Courts
• List of High courts and their new Chief Justices is goven below:
S. No New Chief Justice appointed Name of High Court
1. Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava Rajasthan High Court
2. Justice Arun Bhansali Allahabad High Court
3. Justice Vijay Bishnoi Gauhati High Court
4. Justice S. Vaidyanathan Meghalaya High Court
5. Justice Ritu Bahri Uttarakhand High Court
6. Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh Orissa High Court

215. Michelle O’Neill, Vice President of Sinn Fein political party, has been appointed as First
Minister in Northern Ireland. For the first time, an Irish nationalist will lead Northern Ireland’s
government of the United Kingdom territory. The appointment came as Sinn Fein’s pro-British
rival, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), formally ended a two-year boycott of the power-
sharing government. The ‘1998 Good Friday’ peace accord shares power between Irish
nationalists and British unionists. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Michelle O’Neill – appointed as First Minister in Northern Ireland
• An Irish nationalist will lead Northern Ireland’s govt of the UK territory for the first time
• ‘1998 Good Friday’ peace accord – shares power between Irish nationalists and British unionists
• Ireland – Dublin – Euro | PM – Leo Varadkar

216. Former diplomat Sanjay Verma has been appointed as a member of the Union Public
Service Commission (UPSC). Verma, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of the 1990 batch, took
the oath of office and secrecy as the UPSC member. The oath was administered by UPSC
chairman Manoj Soni. A UPSC member is appointed for a term of 6 years or until attaining the
age of 65 years. The Commission is headed by a Chairman and it can have a maximum of 10
members. With the appointement of Sanjay Verma, now there is vacancy of 3 members. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Sanjay Verma (former IFS officer) – took oath of office & secrecy as a member of UPSC
• The Commission is headed by a Chairman and it can have a maximum of 10 members
• A UPSC member is appointed for a term of 6 years or until attaining the age of 65 years
• HQs of UPSC – New Delhi | Chairman – Manoj Soni

217. Yemen’s Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi,
appointed Yemen’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak as the country’s new Prime
Minister. Outgoing Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed, who served as PM from October
2018 to February 2024, will take on the role of an advisor to the Chairman of the Presidential
Leadership Council. {Read more}

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218. Vivek Kumar Gupta, an officer of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE), assumed the
position as Managing Director (MD) of the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL). He
succeeds Rajendra Prasad. Prior to his current role, Gupta served as the Principal Executive
Director/Gati-Shakti at the Railway Board under the Ministry of Railways. NHSRCL is at the forefront
of executing India’s groundbreaking bullet train project. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vivek Kumar Gupta – assumed position as MD of NHSRCL (succeeding - Rajendra Prasad)
• NHSRCL – is at forefront of executing India’s groundbreaking bullet train project
• HQs of NHSRCL – New Delhi | Chairman – V. K. Tripathi | MD – Vivek Kumar Gupta

219. The Fit India movement, a flagship initiative of the Government of India, announced appointment of Narendra Kumar
Yadav (Additional Director of GST) as its newest brand ambassador. At the youthful age of just 22, Narendra Yadav made
history by becoming one of the youngest Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer in 2009. With this appointment, Narendra
Yadav becomes the first-ever civil servant in India to hold such a prestigious position. Through this role, he aims to further
amplify the message of health and fitness to inspire individuals across the nation to prioritize their physical and mental
well-being. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Narendra Kumar Yadav (Additional Director of GST) – appointed as newest brand ambassador of Fit India movement
• He became the 1st-ever civil servant in India to hold this position
• Fit India Movement – was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2019

220. The Supreme Court approved the Centre’s notification making the expert
committee assisting the SC on environment and forest issues. The 3-member Central
Empowered Committee (CEC), headed by Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai (BR
Gavai), will be a permanent body with members chosen by the Centre for a fixed
tenure and specified functions. The bench also comprises justices PS Narasimha and
PK Mishra. The CEC issued a set of guidelines for effective functioning of
environmental regulatory bodies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SC – approved Centre’s notification making the expert committee assisting the SC on environment & forest issues
• The 3-member CEC will be headed by – Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai
• Other two members – Justice PS Narasimha & Justice PK Mishra
• Present CJI of Supreme Court – Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud (50th) | Established on – Jan 28, 1950
• Retirement age: Chief Justices & Judges of HC – 62 years | Chief Justice of India & judges of the SC – 65 years
• The sanctioned judge strength of the Supreme Court is 34 (including Chief Justice of India)

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221. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev appointed Olzhas Bektenov as the new Prime Minister of
Kazakhstan. Bektenov, 43, is a Kazakh politician who was previously the head of the state’s anti-
corruption agency and the head of the presidential administration. He became the youngest Prime
Minister of Kazakhstan. Bektenov’s candidacy, nominated by the Amanat party, received significant
support from the majority of deputies. President Tokayev signed a decree on February 5 for the dismissal
of the government, marking the end of Alikhan Smailov’s term as Prime Minister. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Olzhas Bektenov – appointed as youngest PM of Kazakhstan (succeeding - Alikhan Smailov)
• Kazakhstan – Astana – Tenge | President – Kassym-Jomart Tokayev | PM – Olzhas Bektenov

222. Judge Nawaf Salam from Lebanon has been elected as the President of the
International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a term of 3 years. President Salam has been a
Member of the Court since 6 February 2018. Nawaf Sala succeeds Judge Joan E
Donoghue (USA). Moreover, Justice Julia Sebutinde from Uganda has been elected as
the Vice President of ICJ for 3 years. She succeeds Kirill Gevorgian (Russia). The ICJ,
established in June 1945, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. The
Court is composed of 15 judges elected for a 9-year term by the UNGA & UNSC. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Judge Nawaf Salam (Lebanon) – elected as President of ICJ for 3 years (succeeding - Judge Joan E Donoghue (USA))
• Justice Julia Sebutinde (Uganda) – elected as Vice President of ICJ for 3 years (succeeding - Kirill Gevorgian (Russia))
• HQs of ICJ – The Hague, Netherlands | President – Judge Nawaf Salam (Lebanon)

223. Tata Digital, the subsidiary of Tata Sons, announced the appointment of Naveen Tahilyani as Chief
Executive Officer & Managing Director of the company. Mr Naveen succeeds Pratik Pal who has served
Tata Digital with dedication since its inception. Mr Naveen is currently the CEO and Managing Director
of Tata AIA Life Insurance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Naveen Tahilyani – appointed as the MD & CEO of Tata Digital (succeeding - Pratik Pal)
• Venkatachalam H – appointed as MD & CEO of Tata AIA Life Insurance (Replacing - Naveen Tahilyani)
• HQs of Tata Digital – Mumbai, MH | CEO – Naveen Tahilyani

224. Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi has been appointed as the new Vice Chief of
Army Staff (Indian Army). He will assume charge on February 15 from Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, who
will take over as the Northern Army commander in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir. Lt Gen Dwivedi is the
senior-most officer to take over from Army chief Gen Manoj Pande when he retires on May 31, 2024.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi – appointed as Vice Chief of Army Staff (succeeding - Lt. General MV Suchindra Kumar)
• Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar – will take over as the Northern Army commander in Udhampur, J & K
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – Lt. Gen. Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. General Upendra Dwivedi

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225. Alexander Stubb of the centre-right National Coalition Party narrowly won Finland’s Presidential
election, defeating liberal Green Party member Pekka Haavisto. Stubb, a former Prime Minister, is pro-
European and a strong supporter of Ukraine who has taken a tough stance towards Russia. He declared
himself winner in the run-off vote after securing 51.6% of the votes, against Haavisto’s 48.4%. Alexander
Stubb became the 13th President of Finland. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Alexander Stubb (National Coalition Party) – became 13th President of Finland (defeating - Pekka Haavisto)
• Finland – Helsinki – Euro | PM – Petteri Orpo | President – Alexander Stubb

226. Sanjay Kumar Jain, an Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS) Officer of 1990 batch, took over the
charge of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation
Ltd (IRCTC). Prior to this role, Jain was Principal Chief Commercial Manager (PCCM) of Northern
Railway. His contributions have been recognized by the Ministry of Railways and he has been
honoured twice by the highest award in Indian Railways. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sanjay Kumar Jain – took charge as the CMD of IRCTC
• He has been honoured twice by the highest award in Indian Railways
• HQs of IRCTC – New Delhi | Chairman & MD – Sanjay Kumar Jain

227. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal has assumed charge as the 72nd President of Institute of Chartered
Accountants of India (ICAI), world’s largest accounting body, for the council year 2024-25. Charanjot
Singh Nanda, Central Council Member, has been elected as Vice-President of ICAI. Charanjot Singh Nanda
succeeds Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal, while Mr Agarwal succeeds Aniket Sunil Talati. Mr Agarwal was elected
to the 23rd, 24th and 25th Central Council of the ICAI 3 times in a row. Agarwal is also a Company Secretary
and DISA from ICAI. {Refad more}
Smart Points:
• Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal – assumed charge as 72nd President of ICAI (succeeding - Aniket Sunil Talati)
• Charanjot Singh Nanda – elected as Vice-President of ICAI (succeeding - Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal)
• ICAI – is world’s largest accounting body
• HQs of ICAI – Kolkata, West Bengal | President – Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal | Vice-President – Charanjot Singh Nanda

228. Prabowo Subianto is newly elected as the President of Indonesia. Prabowo Subianto will succeed
Joko Widodo as the next President of the Southeast Asian nation. Gerindra Party’s Prabowo Subianto’s
election marks the first shift in leadership in Indonesia after a span of 10 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prabowo Subianto (Gerindra Party) – newly elected as the President of Indonesia (succeeding - Joko Widodo)
• Indonesia – Jakarta (Nusantara in future) – Rupiah | President – Joko Widodo (From Oct’24 - Prabowo Subianto)

229. Former Cabinet Secretary Pradeep Kumar Sinha is appointed as Non-Executive Part-time
Chairman of ICICI Bank for a period until February 16, 2029. Mr Sinha will take over after G. C.
Chaturvedi’s term ends on June 30, 2024. In the run-up to the aforementioned appointment, the
ICICI Bank’s Board has approved the appointment of Sinha as an Additional (Independent) Director
for a period of 5 years, with immediate effect. Mr Sinha served as the Cabinet Secretary (from
June 2015) for more than 4 years before moving to the Prime Minister’s Office. {Read more}

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230. Justice Nilay Vipinchandra Anjaria, Judge of Gujarat High Court, has been appointed as Chief Justice
of the Karnataka High Court, due to the superannuation of incumbent Justice PS Dinesh Kumar on
February 24, 2024. Justice Anjaria was appointed as a Judge of the Gujarat High Court on November 21,
2011. While, Justice P. S. Dinesh Kumar was appointed Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court on
February 1, 2024, after Justice P. B. Varale was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Justice Nilay Vipinchandra Anjaria – appointed as CJ of Karnataka High Court (succeeding - Justice PS Dinesh Kumar)
• Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court – Justice Nilay Vipinchandra Anjaria
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot

231. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed A S Rajeev as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central
Vigilance Commission (CVC). Prior to this appointment, A S Rajeev was Managing Director & CEO of
Bank of Maharashtra, a public sector bank. Under the CVC Act, the Central Vigilance Commission
became a 3-member body, with the Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance
Commissioners. While Praveen Kumar Srivastava is the Central Vigilance Commissioner, Arvinda
Kumar is a Vigilance Commissioner. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• A S Rajeev – appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in CVC
• Central Vigilance Commissioner – Praveen Kumar Srivastava | Vigilance Commissioners – Arvinda Kumar & A S Rajeev
• Tenure of CVC & Vigilance commissioner – 4 Years | Superannuation age – 65 Years | CVC appointed by – President

232. Salil Parekh, CEO & MD at Infosys, has joined the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum
(USISPF) as a member of its board of directors. Salil and Infosys’ participation on the USISPF Board will
help forge a critical reliance for the two economies by consolidating digital trade, ultimately further
establishing India as an innovation partner to the world. Mukesh Aghi is USISPF’s President and CEO,
while John Chambers is the Chairman. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Salil Parekh (CEO & MD of Infosys) – appointed as a member of US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF)
• HQs of USISPF – Washington, D.C., US | President & CEO – Mukesh Aghi | Chairman – John Chambers

233. Tuvalu’s parliamentary members have selected former Attorney General Feleti Teo as the new Prime
Minister of Pacific Island nation, Tuvalu, following a general election. He is the first Tuvaluan prime
minister to be nominated unopposed. Teo’s elevation to prime minister comes after his predecessor,
Kausea Natano lost his seat in general elections. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Feleti Teo – elected as PM of Tuvalu (succeding - Kausea Natano)
• Tuvalu – Funafuti – Tuvaluan Dollar | PM – Feleti Teo

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234. Former Supreme Court judge, Justice A. M. Khanwilkar, has been appointed as the new Lokpal
Chairperson. Justice Khanwilkar will be the 2nd Lokpal in India, succeeding Pinaki Chandra Ghose, the
first Lokpal of India, who retired in May 2022 after serving for two years. Justice Khanwilkar retired
from the Supreme Court in July 2022. President Droupadi Murmu appointed him and she also
announced the appointment of former high court judges Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Sanjay Yadav
and Ritu Raj Awasthi as judicial members of the Lokpal. Non-judicial members Sushil Chandra,
Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Tirkey were also appointed. The Lokpal is composed of a chairperson and 8 members, of which
50% are judicial members. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 states that the Lokpal chief and members are appointed
for a term of 5 years or until they reach the age of 70. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Justice A. M. Khanwilkar – appointed as new Lokpal Chairperson (succeeding – Pinaki Chandra Ghose)
• He will be 2nd Lokpal in India | Lokpal Act – Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
• Lingappa Narayana Swamy + Sanjay Yadav + Ritu Raj Awasthi = appointed as judicial members (Ex HC judges)
• Sushil Chandra + Pankaj Kumar + Ajay Tirkey = also appointed as Non-judicial members
• Lokpal – composed of a chairperson and 8 members (50% are judicial members)
• Lokpal chief & members – appointed for 5 years or until they reach age of 70
• Lokpal Chairperson – Justice A. M. Khanwilkar

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Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes
235. Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson of Modi Enterprises, was honoured with the “Outstanding
Business Woman of the Year - 2023” award by Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India. The
award was presented to her at a prestigious conference by the Indo-American Chamber of
Commerce (IACC) on ‘Strengthening Indo-US Relationship in Amritkal-Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
in New Delhi. The award recognizes her remarkable contributions to the industry that place
her among the distinguished few women chairpersons of Fortune500 and ET500 India
companies. Most recently, Dr. Bina Modi was also recognised with ‘The AsiaOne Women
Empowerment Leadership Principles Award, Asia, 2023,’ and the Outlook Business Spotlight
Visionary Leader Award 2023’s ‘Most Inspiring Woman in Business’ award. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr. Bina Modi – honoured with “Outstanding Business Woman of the Year - 2023” award
• Other Awards recently won by her:
- ‘The AsiaOne Women Empowerment Leadership Principles Award, Asia, 2023,’
- Outlook Business Spotlight Visionary Leader Award 2023’s ‘Most Inspiring Woman in Business’ award

236. On February 5, Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, kanjira
player Selvaganesh V and violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan have won the Grammy award for the ‘Best Global Music Album’ at
the 66th Grammys held at crypto.com arena in Los Angeles, California, US. Their band ‘Shakti’, a fusion music group, has
won the prestigious award for ‘This Moment’, an eight-track album created during Covid. The Indo-jazz super group also
comprised British guitarist John Mclaughlin. Zakir Hussain, who won the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, won two more
hallowed gramophones, ‘Best Global Music Performance’ (for ‘Pashto’ with Rakesh Chaurasia, Béla Fleck, and Edgar
Meyer), and ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental Album’ (for ‘As We Speak’). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 66th Grammys held at – crypto.com arena in Los Angeles, California, US
• ‘Best Global Music Album’ awardees:
- Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain
- Flautist Rakesh Chaurasia
- Vocalist Shankar Mahadevan
- Kanjira player Selvaganesh V
- Violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan
• Their band ‘Shakti’ has won the prestigious award for an album named ‘This Moment’
• Zakir Hussain – won ‘Best Global Music Performance’ & ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental Album’

237. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has introduced a new medal, “Kendriya
Grihmantri Dakshata Padak”, after merging 4 existing medals - Union Home
Minister’s Special Operation Medal, Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in
Investigation, Asadharan Aasuchana Kushalata Padak and Union Home Minister’s
Awards for Meritorious Service in Forensic Science. The Union Home Minister’s
Awards for Meritorious Service in Forensic Science was introduced in 2010, while the
remaining 3 awards were instituted in 2018. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• MHA – has introduced a new medal, “Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak”
• It was introduced after merging 4 existing medals:
- Union Home Minister’s Special Operation Medal (introduced in 2018)
- Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation (introduced in 2018)
- Asadharan Aasuchana Kushalata Padak (introduced in 2018)
- Union Home Minister’s Awards for Meritorious Service in Forensic Science (introduced in 2010)
• Minister of Home Affairs: Amit Shah | Constituency – Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of Home Affairs: Nityanand Rai, Ajay Kumar & Nisith Pramanik

238. REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, has been bestowed with the
prestigious “Best Green Bond - Corporate Award” at ‘The Asset Triple A Awards for Sustainable Finance 2024’. REC has
received the award for issuance of $750 million USD Green Bonds in April 2023 which was also the first USD Green Bond
issuance from India post India’s assumption of G20 Presidency and also the largest ever Senior Green Bond Tranche by a
South or South-East Asian issuer. The bond issue was priced at a minimum new issue premium of 7.5 bps, which was
tighter than the most recent high-rated issuances from the region. REC also priced its inaugural Euro-Yen Green bonds of
JPY 61.1 Billion in January 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• REC Limited – has been bestowed with the prestigious “Best Green Bond - Corporate Award”
• The award was given at – ‘The Asset Triple A Awards for Sustainable Finance 2024’
• REC – issued $750 million USD Green Bonds in April’23, 1st USD Green Bond from India post India’s G20 Presidency
• HQs of REC Ltd – New Delhi | Chairman & MD – Vivek Kumar Dewangen | Founded in – 1969

239. American singer Taylor Swift, for the 4th time, won ‘Album of the Year’ award at the 66th
Grammy Awards for ‘Midnights’ album, breaking the record for most wins in this category. One of
the night’s biggest awards, ‘Record of the Year’, went to Miley Cyrus for ‘Flowers’. American singer
Victoria Monet won ‘Best New Artist’. American singer Billie Eilish won ‘Song of the Year’ for writing
the “Barbie”. Colombian singer Karol G made Grammy history by becoming the first female
performer to win ‘Best Musica Urbana Album’ for her blockbuster ‘Mañana Será Bonito’. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Important awards at 66th Grammy Awards:
- ‘Album of the Year’ – Taylor Swift (for ‘Midnights’ album) (4th time)
• She broke the record for most wins in this category
- ‘Record of the Year’ – Miley Cyrus (for ‘Flowers’)
- ‘Best New Artist’ – Victoria Monet
- ‘Song of the Year’ – Billie Eilish (for “Barbie”)
- ‘Best Musica Urbana Album’ – Karol G (for ‘Mañana Será Bonito’) | 1st female performer to win this award

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240. On February 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that
Former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh will be conferred with
India’s highest civilian honour “Bharat Ratna”. Besides Singh, Former
Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and Agricultural Scientist MS
Swaminathan will also be conferred with Bharat Ratna. Chaudhary
Charan Singh, also known as the ‘Champion of India’s Peasants’,
served as the 5th Prime Minister of India between 1979 and 1980. He
was born in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, in 1902. PV Narasimha Rao served
as the 9th Prime Minister of India between 1991 and 1996. The Congress stalwart, born in Warangal, undivided Andhra
Pradesh, is often credited with bringing Economic reforms to India in 1991. PV Narasimha Rao was the first person from
south India to become the prime minister of India. He was also the first Congress PM outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.
‘The Man Who Remade India: A Biography of PV Narasimha Rao’ is written by Vinay Sitapati. MS Swaminathan, born in
Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and
humanitarian. Swaminathan was a global leader of the Green Revolution, recognised for his role in developing high-
yielding varieties of wheat and rice. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during
challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. Bharat Ratna, being awarded
posthumously to Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh, Swaminathan in 2024, takes recipient count to 53. 2024 has seen the
highest number of Bharat Ratna awards given in a single year so far, with 5 recipients already (including Karpoori Thakur &
Lal Krishna Advani). Former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri was the first individual to be honoured posthumously. The
last Bharat Ratna award was given to Pranab Mukherjee in 2019, and posthumously awarded to Bhupendra Kumar
Hazarika and Nanaji Deshmukh. No awards were conferred between 2020 and 2023. The Bharat Ratna and Padma
Vibhushan were instituted by the Government of India in 1954. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – announced “Bharat Ratna” awardees for 2024
• 2024 Bharat Ratna awardees:
• Chaudhary Charan Singh (posthumously)
- 5th PM of India between 1979 & 1980
- also known as ‘Champion of India’s Peasants’
• PV Narasimha Rao (posthumously)
- 9th PM of India between 1991 & 1996
- 1st person from south India to become PM of India
- 1st Congress PM outside the Nehru-Gandhi family
- ‘The Man Who Remade India: A Biography of PV Narasimha Rao’ written by – Vinay Sitapati
• MS Swaminathan (posthumously)
- Agricultural Scientist & Global leader of the Green Revolution (‘Father of Green Revolution’)
• Lal Krishna Advani
- Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004
- Padma Vibhushan awardee in 2015
• Karpoori Thakur
- Former Chief Minister of Bihar and a Socialist Leader & popularly known as ‘Jannayak’
• Total recipients of Bharat Ratna – 53
• Highest number of Bharat Ratna awards given in a single year so far – 2024 (5 recepients)

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241. Nima Sarikhani, an amateur photographer from the UK has won a prestigious “Wildlife
Photographer of The Year” award by the Natural History Museum, London. He is awarded
for his emotive shot of a polar bear sleeping in a makeshift bed carved into a small iceberg.
He captured the image off Norway’s Svalbard archipelago (a group of islands). The winning
photo, ‘Ice Bed’, serves as a visual representation of the detrimental impacts of climate
warming and habitat loss. It highlights the integral bond between animals and their
habitats and emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nima Sarikhani (UK) – won “Wildlife Photographer of The Year” | Winning photo is named – ‘Ice Bed’
• The award is given by – Natural History Museum, London
• He captured the image off – Norway’s Svalbard archipelago (a group of islands)

242. Pyarelal Sharma, one of the most successful music composers in Hindi cinema, has
been felicitated with the “Lakshminarayana International Award”. The award was
presented to the composer Pyarelal Sharma by musicians L Subramaniam and Kavita
Krishnamurthy Subramaniam as part of the Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival.
Recently, Pyarelal was announced as a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third
highest civilian honour, on the eve of Republic Day 2024. The legendary musician has
given iconic songs in collaboration with music maestro Laxmikant Shantaram Kudalkar.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pyarelal Sharma (music composer) – felicitated with the “Lakshminarayana International Award”
• Award is Presented as part of – Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival
• Presented by – musicians L Subramaniam & Kavita Krishnamurthy Subramaniam
• Pyarelal Sharma – also announced as a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s 3rd highest civilian honour

243. Sprint Queen PT Usha, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP and the Indian Olympic Association
(IOA) President, was conferred with the “Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) Lifetime
Achievement Award” by Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA). Usha was presented with a
medallion, a memento and a citation. PT Usha is the 5th Indian sports legend to get the award
after Vijay Amritraj, Prakash Padukone, Sunil Gavaskar and Milkha Singh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PT Usha – was conferred with the “Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) Lifetime Achievement Award”
• The award was given by – Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA)
• She is 5th Indian sports legend to get the award
• Other 4 – Vijay Amritraj, Prakash Padukone, Sunil Gavaskar & Milkha Singh

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244. Indore Smart City Development Ltd won the Best Water Management Award at the 2024
Smart Cities India Awards in New Delhi. The awards recognize best practices in the water and
sanitation sectors. Sub-categories include clean drinking water and solid waste management. All
14 winners from 100 nominations have been mentioned below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Winners at the 2024 Smart Cities India Awards:
• Best Healthcare Initiatives Award – Raipur Smart City & Raipur Municipal Corporation
• Best Water Management Award – Indore Smart City
• Clean City Award – Sagar Smart City Limited
• Governance and Economy Award – Jabalpur Smart City Limited
• Public Private Partnership Initiatives Award – Tata Projects Limited
• Smart Energy Projects Award – New Town Kolkata Green Smart City Corporation
• Smart Urban Mobility Award – Pune Smart City Development Corporation Limited
• Best Startup Initiatives Award – Lootel Smart Restroom Café
• Smart City of the Year Award – New Town Kolkata Green Smart City Corporation & Tumakuru Smart City Limited
• Smart Parking Initiatives Award – Bhopal Smart City Development Corporation Limited
• Smart City CEO of the Year – Jabalpur Smart City Limited
• Best Green Buildings Project Award – New Town Kolkata Green Smart City Corporation
• Best ICCC Management Award – Agra Smart City Ltd
• Special Award – NICDC (National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited)

245. The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Kerala section
conferred the “2024 K. P. P. Nambiar Award” on S. Somanath, the Chairman of Indian
Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Mr. Somanath has been pivotal in steering
ISRO’s lunar exploration programme, Chandrayaan-3, and played significant roles in
various Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and ISRO missions. The award
commemorates the doyen of the electronic industry K.P.P. Nambiar, who was also
the founder chair of IEEE Kerala section. Muhammad Kasim is the Chair of IEEE, Kerala section. Moreover, the “Amarnath
Raja Humanitarian Technology Award” was given to Jawahara Fathima and team, MA College in Kothamangalam for the
project ‘Light for Lives’. While, the ‘Outstanding Woman Engineer Award’ was given to Athuladevi S, Deputy Director of
Avionics, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IEEE Kerala section – conferred “2024 K. P. P. Nambiar Award” on S. Somanath (Chairman of ISRO)
• K.P.P. Nambiar – was the founder chair of IEEE Kerala section | Current Chair – Muhammad Kasim
• ‘Amarnath Raja Humanitarian Technology Award’ – given to Jawahara Fathima (MA College in Kothamangalam)
• ‘Outstanding Woman Engineer Award’ – given to Athuladevi S (Avionics, VSSC)
• Kerala: Capital – Thiruvananthapuram | CM – Pinarayi Vijayan | Governor – Arif Mohammad Khan

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246. India has secured the prestigious 9th GovTech Prize for its pioneering endeavors in
AI-powered government services at the “World Government Summit 2024” held in Dubai,
UAE. PM Narendra Modi addressed the WGS 2024 as the ‘Guest of Honour’. The annual
award is instituted by the government of the UAE and is presented to government
entities, central or local, worldwide, to recognize creative and innovative solutions. India
won under the category of ‘AI-Powered Government Services’. The accolade recognizes
the remarkable efforts of the Ministry for Road Transport & Highways, Government of
India, for its transformative project known as ‘iRASTE’. The project’s objectives are ambitious yet attainable, with a
targeted 50% reduction in road accidents anticipated in urban areas. Additionally, iRASTE aims to significantly diminish
black spots within the city’s road network, further enhancing safety and efficiency in transportation systems. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – got 9th GovTech Prize in “AI-powered government services” category at “World Government Summit 2024”
• PM Narendra Modi addressed the WGS 2024 as the ‘Guest of Honour’ in Dubai, UAE
• UAE – instituted annual award to recognize creative and innovative solutions
• India – won under ‘AI-Powered Government Services’ category for efforts of MoRTH for its project ‘iRASTE’
• Aim of iRASTE:
- 50% reduction in road accidents anticipated in urban areas
- Diminish black spots within city’s road network
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
• Minister of Road Transport & Highways: Nitin Gadkari | Constituency – Nagpur, Maharashtra
• MoS in Ministry of Road Transport & Highways: V. K. Singh

247. President Droupadi Murmu has awarded the “Vishisht Seva Medal” to
Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh Regiment in the Indian Army for his
development of a ‘multipurpose octocopter’. It is a versatile drone capable
of not only conducting surveillance operations but also performing tasks
such as grenade dropping, aerial target engagement with weapons like the
AK-47, and logistics operations. The VSM is given to personnel of all levels in
the Indian Armed Forces as an acknowledgement for “distinguished service
of a high order”. The VSM was instituted on January 26, 1960. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Havildar Varinder Singh (Sikh Regiment of Indian Army) – awarded with “Vishisht Seva Medal” by President
• Awarded for – development of a ‘multipurpose octocopter’ (a versatile drone)
• VSM – instituted on January 26, 1960 & given for “distinguished service of a high order”
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – Lt. Gen. Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. General Upendra Dwivedi

248. Along with Mohammed Shami, Hardik Singh is also named “Sportsman of the Year
(Team Sports)” at the ‘Sportstar Aces Awards 2024’. While Vandana Katariya clinched the
“Sportswoman of the Year (Team Sports)” award. The “Sportsman of the Year (Individual)”
award was given to Satwiksairaj Rankireddy & Chirag Shetty, while the “Sportswoman of
the Year (Individual)” award was given to Rameshbabu Vaishali & Sift Kaur Samra. Other
awardees are mentioned below. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• Winners of ‘Sportstar Aces Awards 2024’:
Award Winner
Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports) Mohammed Shami, Hardik Singh
Sportswoman of the Year (Team Sports) Vandana Katariya
Sportsman of the Year (Individual) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty
Sportswoman of the Year (Individual) Rameshbabu Vaishali, Sift Kaur Samra
Sportstar of the Year (Male) Neeraj Chopra
Sportstar of the Year (Female) Sheetal Devi
Lifetime Achievement Award Chandu Borde, Karnam Malleswari
Coach of the Year Rahul Dravid
Ace of Aces Award Rohan Bopanna
National Team of the Year India Men’s Cricket Team
Club/State Team of the Year Saurashtra Cricket Team
International Icon Muttiah Muralitharan
Sportsman of the Year (Parasports) Sumit Antil
Sportswoman of the Year (Parasports) Thulasimathi Murugesan
Sportsman of the Year (Track and Field) Men’s Relay Team
Sportswoman of the Year (Track and Field) Parul Chaudhary
Young Achiever of the Year (Male) Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar
Young Achiever of the Year (Female) Tilottama Sen
Sport for Social Good Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board
Best State for the Promotion of Sport Tamil Nadu
Moment of the Year Sheetal Devi Hits the Bullseye
Best PSU for the Promotion of Sport NTPC Ltd
Best Corporate for the Promotion of Sport Tata Steel Ltd
Best University for the Promotion of Sport SRM Institute of Science & Technology

249. Kerala has received the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s award for the ‘Best Tuberculosis Elimination
Activities’. The award is given for coordinating National TB Elimination Programme’s activities in the private health sector
in the best manner and for making the maximum registration of new TB cases from the private sector on the NIKSHAY
portal. Kerala has been engaging with the private sector with the aim of eliminating TB by 2025. Anti-tuberculosis activities
are being organised at the panchayat level with the help of local bodies to reach the target of TB-free Kerala. At present,
there are 330 STEPS (System for TB Elimination in Private sector) centres. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kerala – received ‘Best Tuberculosis Elimination Activities’ Award from the MoHFW
• Kerala – engaging with private sector to eliminate TB by 2025

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250. Isha Ambani, Director of Reliance Retail Ventures, received a special award at the ‘Lokmat
Maharashtrian of the Year 2024’ for her remarkable contributions in the field of business. She
spearheaded leading brands like Tira & Trends. Her mother, Nita Ambani, also won the same
award in 2016. Isha is an integral part of the executive leadership teams, serving on the boards of
Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, Reliance Foundation (RF),
Reliance Foundation Institution of Education and Research, and Dhirubhai Ambani International
School. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Isha Ambani (Reliance Retail Ventures) – received a special award at ‘Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year 2024’
• Nita Ambani (her mother) – also won the same award in 2016
• HQs of RRVL – Mumbai, MH | CEO – V. Subramaniam

251. Urdu poet and Bollywood writer and director Sampooran Singh Kalra,
known professionally as ‘Gulzar’, and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru
Rambhadracharya have been selected for the “Jnanpith Award”, considered as
India’s highest literary honour. This is the 58th edition of the Jnanpith Award
given annually for outstanding contributions to Indian literature since 1965. It
is presented by the Bharatiya Jnanpith, which was established in 1944. Gulzar
is considered one of the finest Urdu poets of his generation and is a top
director and writer of Hindi cinema. Mr Rambhadracharya, a polyglot, who
speaks 22 languages, is one of the present 4 Jagadguru Ramanandacharyas of the Ramananda sect. He is a renowned
Hindu spiritual leader, educator and writer of more than 240 books and texts, including four epics. He is also the founder
and head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot in Madhya Pradesh. The award carries a cash component of Rs 11 lakh, a statue of
Vagdevi, and a citation. It is the 2nd time the award is being given for Sanskrit and the 5th time for Urdu. Besides Jnanpith
Award, Gulzar has received the Sahitya Akademi Award for Urdu in 2002, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013, the Padma
Bhushan in 2004, and at least five National Film awards for his work. His song “Jai Ho” for the film Slumdog Millionaire,
received an Oscar in 2009 and Grammy in 2010. The awardees were selected by a committee headed by Odia writer
Pratibha Rai. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 58th Jnanpith Award will be conferred upon – Gulzar & Jagadguru Rambhadracharya
• Jnanpith Award – India’s highest literary honour given annually for outstanding contributions to Indian literature
• Jnanpith Award – given since 1965 | Presented by – Bharatiya Jnanpith (established in 1944)
• The award carries a cash component of Rs 11 lakh, a statue of Vagdevi and a citation
• Committee to select awardees was headed by – Pratibha Rai (Odia writer)
• It is the 2nd time award is being given for Sanskrit and 5th time for Urdu
• Jagadguru Rambhadracharya – Sanskrit scholar and founder & head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, MP
• Jagadguru Rambhadracharya – is one of present 4 Jagadguru Ramanandacharyas of Ramananda sect
• Gulzar (Sampooran Singh Kalra) – Urdu poet & Bollywood writer & director

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252. The National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS),
Bengaluru, has been awarded the “Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion
for 2024” by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The award is a testament to
Nimahans’ dedication and outstanding contributions to promoting mental health
and well-being. The award comes at a time when Nimhans is celebrating 50 years
of its formation and the 70th anniversary of its precursor, the All India Institute of
Mental Health (AIIMH). The Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion, established by WHO in 2019, recognises
individuals, institutions and/or governmental or non-governmental organizations that have demonstrated remarkable
contributions to health promotion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – awarded “Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024” to NIMHANS, Bengaluru
• Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion – established by WHO in 2019
• HQs of NIMHANS – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – Pratima Murthy

253. During the ‘National Conclave on Impactful Sustainable Business Practices’ held in New
Delhi, Jindal Steel & Power (JSP) has been awarded the “CSR & Sustain ability Award 2024” in
the ‘Water Conservation and Management’ category for its outstanding contribution to the
development of farmers in Angul, Odisha. This was accomplished through integrated
watershed management projects, started in 2012, in collaboration with NABARD. The company
has developed and managed two watershed catchments, positively impacting the quality of
lives of over 5000 farming families. These initiatives were implemented by the JSP Foundation,
the social arm of JSP. Shallu Jindal is the Chairperson of JSP Foundation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘National Conclave on Impactful Sustainable Business Practices’ – held in New Delhi
• JSP – was awarded “CSR & Sustain ability Award 2024” in ‘Water Conservation and Management’ category
• HQs of JSP Foundation – Bhubaneswar, Odisha | Chairperson – Shallu Jindal

254. Shashi Tharoor, a prolific auth or and a diplomat-turned-politician, was conferred

with France’s highest civilian honour “Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur” (Order of the
Legion of Honour). Tharoor was conferred the prestigious award at the French Embassy
by French Senate President Gerard Larcher. The French government had announced
the award for Tharoor in August 2022, but was conferred on him now. It was awarded
to him for his tireless efforts to deepen Indo-French ties, commitment to international
peace and cooperation, and as a long-standing friend of France. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shashi Tharoor – conferred with France’s highest civilian honour “Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur”
• Award was announced in August 2022 for his tireless efforts to deepen Indo-French ties
• France – Paris – Euro | President – Emmanuel Macron | PM – Gabriel Attal

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255. Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs organised the Prize Distribution Function of the 16th
“National Youth Parliament Competition, 2019-20” for Universities/Colleges at GMC
Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi. 36 Universities/Colleges from
across India participated in the competition. Minister of State in the Ministry of
Parliamentary Affairs, Arjun Ram Meghwal, presided over the function and awarded ‘The
Running Shield’ and Trophy for standing 1st at national level to the winning team of Central
University of Punjab (Bathinda). Five other Universities/Colleges were also conferred Awards for their meritorious
performance in the competition - DAV College, Jalandhar; Jadavpur University, Kolkata; University of Mumbai, Mumbai;
Chanakya National Law University, Patna; and Shivaji University, Kolhapur. The Youth Parliament Scheme aims at
acquainting the young generation with the practices and procedures of parliament, techniques of discussion and debate;
developing leadership qualities, and spirit of self-discipline. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoPA – organised Prize Distribution Function of 16th “National Youth Parliament Competition, 2019-20”
• It was organised for Universities/Colleges at GMC Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi
• Arjun Ram Meghwal – presided over the function & awarded ‘The Running Shield’ and Trophy
• 1st Prize at National Level was given to – Central University of Punjab (Bathinda)
• Five other Universities/Colleges were also conferred Awards for their performance in competition:
- DAV College, Jalandhar
- Jadavpur University, Kolkata
- University of Mumbai, Mumbai
- Chanakya National Law University, Patna
- Shivaji University, Kolhapur

256. Dr Aditi Sen De has won the “2023 GD Birla Award for Scientific Excellence”. The award, given
annually by the KK Birla Foundation since 1991, recognises outstanding contributions by Indian
scientists who are under the age of 50 and living and working in India. Dr Aditi is the 33rd scientist,
and the first woman, to receive the award. KK Birla Foundation appreciates her outstanding
contribution to the development of quantum technologies. At the Harish Chandra Research
Institute, she is a professor in the Quantum Information and Computation (QIC) group. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Aditi Sen De – won “2023 GD Birla Award for Scientific Excellence” (first woman to win)
• Awarded for – her outstanding contribution to the development of Quantum technologies
• She is a professor in Quantum Information & Computation (QIC) group at Harish Chandra Research Institute
• The award is given by – KK Birla Foundation (since 1991)

257. REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Power, has
been honoured with the ‘Innovative Technology Development Award’ at the “Building India
2047: Technology for Better Tomorrow”, an IIT Madras Corporate Social Responsibility Summit.
The award has been conferred in recognition of REC’s CSR initiative of installation of 2 MW
rooftop solar plant at IIT Madras. The solar plant generates around 3.15 million units of clean
energy every year, thus helping IIT Madras reduce its carbon footprint. REC Limited, through its
CSR arm, REC Foundation, maintains a strong commitment to CSR and prioritizes projects that have a profound impact on
society. REC Limited has been recognized for its CSR activities with several prestigious awards, including the Global CSR
Leadership Awards in 2023 and the PSE Excellence Award for CSR in 2023. {Read more}

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258. On February 28, Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman, Sunil Bharti Mittal, became the
first Indian citizen to be conferred an honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King Charles III for his
services to the U.K. and India business relations. Mr. Mittal received a KBE under the ‘Most
Excellent Order of the British Empire’, one of the highest honours conferred by a British monarch.
The honour recognises Bharti Enterprises’ work within the India-U.K. space, including with the UK
government in the field of satellites. The KBE, conferred for a pre-eminent contribution in any
field of activity, is awarded in an honorary capacity to foreign nationals. While the Knighthood
conferred on U.K. nationals gives them the title of Sir or Dame, non-U.K. nationals awarded the honour add KBE (or DBE
for women) after their name. Previous Indian recipients of the Honorary KBE include Ratan Tata (2009), Ravi Shankar
(2001) and Jamshed Irani (1997), conferred by the late Queen Elizabeth II. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sunil Bharti Mittal – became first Indian citizen to be conferred an honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King Charles III
• He received a KBE under ‘Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’
• This honour is conferred for a pre-eminent contribution in any field of activity to foreign nationals
• Knighthood conferred on U.K. nationals gives them the title of ‘Sir’ or ‘Dame’
• Non-U.K. nationals awarded the honour add ‘KBE’ (or DBE for women) after their name
• Previous Indian recipients of Honorary KBE – Ratan Tata (2009), Ravi Shankar (2001) & Jamshed Irani (1997)
• HQs of Bharti Airtel – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Gopal Vittal | Chairman – Sunil Bharti Mittal

259. National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama, New Delhi, at its meeting held on
21 & 22 February, 2024, at New Delhi unanimously elected 6 eminent personalities in
the field of performing arts as “Akademi Fellows (Akademi Ratna)”. They are Vinayak
Khedekar, R. Visweswaran, Sunayana Hazarilal, Raja & Radha Reddy, Dulal Roy, and D.
P. Sinha. The Fellowship of the Akademi is a most prestigious and rare honour, which
is restricted to 40 at any given time. The General Council (Academy) also selected 92
artists from the field of Music, Dance, Theatre, Traditional/ Folk/ Tribal Music/ Dance/ Theatre, Puppetry and Overall
contribution/ scholarship in the Performing Arts for the “Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar)” for the
years 2022 & 2023. Besides, the General Council of the Akademi has also selected 80 young artists for “Sangeet Natak
Akademi Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar” for the years 2022 and 2023. The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar
carries a purse money of Rs 25,000 along with a Tamrapatra and Angavastram. The Akademi Awards have been conferred
since 1952. The honour of Akademi Ratna carries a purse money of Rs 3 lakh, while the Akademi Puraskar carries a purse
money of Rs 1 lakh, besides a Tamrapatra and Angavastram. {Click for the Full List of Fellows & Awardees}

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Smart Points:
• National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama – elected 6 personalities as “Akademi Fellows (Akademi Ratna)”
• 6 persons are – Vinayak Khedekar, R. Visweswaran, Sunayana Hazarilal, Raja & Radha Reddy, Dulal Roy, & D. P. Sinha
• Akademi Ratna carries – Rs 3 lakh prize money + a Tamrapatra + Angavastram
• Academy also selected 92 artists for “Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar)” for 2022 & 2023
• Akademi Puraskar carries – Rs 1 lakh prize money + a Tamrapatra + Angavastram
• Academy selected 80 artists for “Sangeet Natak Akademi Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar” for 2022 & 2023
• Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar carries – Rs 25,000 prize money + a Tamrapatra + Angavastram
• Akademi Awards have been conferred since 1952

Schemes & Initiatives

260. Odisha government launched “LABHA (Laghu Bana Jatya Drabya Kraya) Yojana”, a
100% State-funded minimum support price (MSP) scheme for minor forest produce (MFP).
The decision is likely to impact the State’s large tribal population, which numbers close to 1
crore or 23% of Odisha’s total population. Under the scheme, a primary collector (a tribal
person) will be able to sell the MFP, collected at the procurement centres by the Tribal
Development Cooperative Corporation Limited of Odisha (TDCCOL). Since the Tribal
Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (TRIFED) fixes the MSP for MFP, the benefits had
not been reaching the beneficiaries in Odisha for several years. The State government also reiterated the demand for the
inclusion of 169 communities in Odisha’s Scheduled Tribes list. Odisha is home to 62 distinct tribes, including 13
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG), showcasing one of the most diverse tribal landscapes in India. There are 21
tribal languages in Odisha. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Odisha – launched “LABHA (Laghu Bana Jatya Drabya Kraya) Yojana” for minor forest produce
• Odisha – has 62 distinct tribes, including 13 PVTGs & 21 tribal languages
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

261. The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) to be
implemented under Infrastructure Development Fund (IDF) with an outlay of Rs 29,610.25 Crore for another 3 years up to
2025-26. The scheme will incentivize investments for Dairy processing and product diversification, Meat processing and
product diversification, Animal Feed Plant, Breed multiplication farm, Animal Waste to Wealth Management (Agri-waste
management) and Veterinary vaccine and drug production facilities. Government of India will provide 3% interest
subvention for 8 years including two years of moratorium for loan up to 90% from the scheduled bank and National
Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), NABARD and NDDB. Government of India will also provide credit
guarantee to the MSME and Dairy Cooperatives up to the 25% of the credit borrowed from the Credit Guarantee Fund of
Rs 750 Crore. So far, the scheme has been able to increase processing capacity by 2-4% in dairy, meat and animal feed
sector. So far, the AHIDF has benefitted directly /indirectly approximately to 15 lakh farmers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved continuation of AHIDF to be implemented under IDF for 3 years up to 2025-26
• Financial outlay – Rs 29,610.25 Cr

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262. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narender Modi, approved extension of ‘Scheme of Sugar Subsidy’ for
Antyodya Anna Yojna (AAY) families distributed through Public Distribution Scheme (PDS) for 2 more years till March 31,
2026. With this approval, the government will continue giving subsidy of Rs 18.50 per kg to participating states for
distribution of sugar to 1.89 crore AAY families through PDS at the rate of 1 kg per family per month. The approval is
expected to extend benefits of more than Rs 1,850 crore during period of 15th Finance Commission (2020-21 to 2025-26).
The scheme facilitates access of sugar to the poorest of the poor and adds energy to their diet so that their health
improves. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet extended ‘Scheme of Sugar Subsidy’ for AAY families distributed through PDS till March 31, 2026
• Govt will continue giving subsidy of Rs 18.50 per kg to participating states for sugar at Rs 1 kg per family per month
• Benefits of more than Rs 1,850 Cr during 15th Finance Commission (2020-21 to 2025-26) will be extended

263. Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, announced to introduce a new
scheme ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’ to foster sports talent at the village level. The initiative, dedicated to commemorating the
birth centenary of Kalaignar Karunanidhi, will provide sporting kits to 12,000 village panchayats in the state. The inaugural
distribution of the sports kit under the scheme will be on February 7 in Trichy. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tamil Nadu – introduced a new scheme ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’ to foster sports talent at the village level
• The initiative will commemorate the birth centenary of Kalaignar Karunanidhi
• The inaugural distribution of the sports kit under the scheme – to be on February 7 in Trichy
• Tamil Nadu: Capital – Chennai | CM – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin | Governor – Ravindra Narayan Ravi

264. The Union Cabinet approved the “Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY)”, a Central Sector
Sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, for formalization of the fisheries sector and supporting
fisheries micro and small enterprises with a financial outlay of Rs 6,000 Crore over a period of next 4 years from FY 2023-
24 to FY 2026-27 in all States/Union Territories. The scheme’s financial outlay consists of 50% (Rs 3,000 Cr) public finance
including the World Bank and the AFD external financing, and rest 50% (Rs 3,000 Cr) being the anticipated investment
from the beneficiaries/private sector leverage. Fishers, Fish (Aquaculture) Farmers, Fish workers, Fish Vendors or such
other person directly engaged in fisheries value chain will be the beneficiaries of the scheme. The scheme focuses on
improving value chain efficiency and ensuring safe, quality fish by supporting 55,000 targeted micro and small enterprises.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Union Cabinet approved “Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY)”
• It is a Central Sector Sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

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265. Ministry of Culture administers a Scheme namely “Scheme for Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists” (earlier known
as Scheme for Pension and Medical Aid to Artists) under which financial assistance is provided to senior artists, aged 60
years & above, having annual income not more than Rs 72,000, who have contributed significantly in their specialized
fields of performing arts and culture, but are facing financial difficulties due to old age. Under the scheme, financial
assistance up to Rs 6000 per month is given to the selected artists. The applicant artist should either be a recipient of
artists pension of at least Rs 500 per month from the concerned State Government/UT Administration, or the artistic
credentials of the applicant should be verified and recommended by the concerned Zonal Cultural Centre (ZCC), Ministry
of Culture. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Scheme “Scheme for Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists” administered by – Ministry of Culture
• The scheme was earlier known as – Scheme for Pension and Medical Aid to Artists
• Eligible beneficiary – senior artists aged 60 years & above with annual income not more than Rs 72,000
• Financial assistance up to Rs 6000 per month is given to selected senior artists who have contributed significantly in
their specialized fields
• Minister of Culture: G. Kishan Reddy | Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana
• MoS in Minister of Culture: Arjun Ram Meghwal & Meenakashi Lekhi

266. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) launched “Pure for Sure” in an innovative step towards transforming
LPG delivery experience. With this initiative, BPCL is set to provide Quality & Quantity assurance in LPG cylinders directly
at the customer’s doorstep, a first-of-its-kind service in the nation. This initiative was inaugurated by Minister of
Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, at India Energy Week 2024 in Goa. It aims to eradicate last-mile delivery
inefficiencies and elevate customer satisfaction to unprecedented levels. The innovative tamper-proof seal, equipped with
QR codes, ensures the integrity of the cylinder from the production plant to the customer’s possession. Bharat Petroleum
is one of the integrated energy companies in India and the second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company, after IndianOil.
Bharat Petroleum’s Refineries at Mumbai, Kochi and Bina have a combined refining capacity of around 35.3 MMTPA.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• BPCL – launched “Pure for Sure” for transforming LPG delivery experience
• It was inaugurated by – Hardeep Singh Puri, at India Energy Week 2024 in Goa
• BPCL – is second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company after IndianOil
• BPCL’s Refineries are located at – Mumbai, Kochi and Bina (combined refining capacity - around 35.3 MMTPA)
• HQs of BPCL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman & MD – G. Krishnakumar | Founded in – 1952

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267. On February 10, Ministry of Heavy Industries has enhanced the scheme outlay of FAME India scheme Phase II from Rs
10,000 crore to Rs 11,500 crore to give a further push to clean mobility in India. Subsidies under the Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India (FAME-II) programme will be eligible for e-vehicles sold till March 31, 2024 or
till the time funds are available, whichever is earlier. Also, the Government has now reduced the Electric Vehicle (EV)
subsidy per unit to 15% of the ex-factory price from 40% for e-2Ws under FAME India Scheme Phase-II, keeping in mind
the increasing penetration of the EV market. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Heavy Industries – FAME India scheme Phase II outlay from Rs 10,000 Cr to Rs 11,500 Cr
• Subsidies under FAME-II programme will be eligible for e-vehicles sold till March 31, 2024
• GoI has now reduced EV subsidy per unit to 15% of the ex-factory price from 40% for e-2Ws
• Minister of Heavy Industries: Mahendra Nath Pandey | Constituency – Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Heavy Industries: Krishan Pal

268. Maharashtra Government has decided to introduce “Chief Minister Vayoshree Yojana” that is likely to benefit 15 lakh
senior citizens who suffer from some physical or mental disability. These citizens, above the age of 65 years, will be
screened and those found eligible will be paid Rs 3,000. The scheme will be implemented across all districts at an
approximate cost of Rs 480 Crore. Besides, the state government has announced an assistance scheme with an aim to
boost the confidence of depositors in Cooperative Societies. The state government will form an independent entity that
will pay back deposits of up to Rs 1 lakh in case a non-agricultural cooperative society goes bankrupt. While the
government has announced an initial corpus of Rs 100 Crore as its contribution for this entity, the cooperatives too will
have to contribute 10 paise for every Rs 100 of deposits that they receive. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Maharashtra Govt – announced to introduce “Chief Minister Vayoshree Yojana” | Approximate cost – Rs 480 Cr
• The citizens, above the age of 65 years, will be screened and those found eligible will be paid Rs 3,000
• MH – will form an independent entity to pay back deposits of up to Rs 1 lakh in case a non-agricultural cooperative
society goes bankrupt
• Initial corpus – Rs 100 Cr
• Maharashtra: CM – Eknath Shinde | Governor – Ramesh Bais

269. Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways has finalized a proposal to provide free cashless treatment to all victims of
road crashes. Under this scheme, road crash victims will receive medical care at Ayushman Bharat-empanelled hospitals
across the country. The upper limit for the treatment will be Rs 1.5 lakh, covering up to 10 days of hospitalization. The cost
of the treatment will be borne by insurance companies. This initiative aims to ensure timely medical assistance to road
crash victims within the first 60 minutes, also known as the ‘golden hour’. Studies have shown that providing prompt
medical care within this critical hour can prevent around 50% of road deaths. In 2022, India reported a record high of 1.68
lakh road fatalities. According to assessments conducted by the Ministry, the average medical expenses for around 97% of
road crash cases amount to approximately Rs 60,000. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoRTH – finalized a proposal to provide free cashless treatment to all victims of road crashes
• Road crash victims will receive medical care at Ayushman Bharat-empanelled hospitals
• The upper limit for the treatment will be Rs 1.5 lakh, covering up to 10 days of hospitalization
• India reported 1.68 lakh road fatalities in 2022
• Minister of Road Transport & Highways: Nitin Gadkari | Constituency – Nagpur, Maharashtra
• MoS in Ministry of Road Transport & Highways: V. K. Singh

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270. Ministry of Commerce and Industry has approved a combined investment commitment of Rs 6,766 Crore to 64
applicants under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods. In 2021, the Union Cabinet sanctioned
the ‘PLI Scheme for White Goods White Goods (ACs and LED Lights)’, earmarking an outlay of Rs 6,238 Crore for
implementation from FY 2021-22 to FY 2028-29. The primary aim of the scheme is to stimulate domestic manufacturing
and reduce dependence on imports, aligning closely with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India. The PLI
Scheme was announced in 2021 for 14 sectors such as Telecommunication, White Goods, Textiles, Manufacturing of
Medical Devices, Automobiles, Speciality Steel, Food Products, High Efficiency Solar PV Modules, Advanced Chemistry Cell
Battery, Electronic/Technology, Textile, Drones, and Pharma with an outlay of Rs 1.97 Lakh Crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoCI – approved a combined investment of Rs 6,766 Cr to 64 applicants under PLI Scheme for White Goods
• Union Cabinet sanctioned the ‘PLI Scheme for White Goods White Goods (ACs and LED Lights)’ in 2021
• Outlay for implementation from FY 2021-22 to FY 2028-29 – Rs 6,238 Cr
• PLI Scheme was announced in 2021 for 14 sectors with an outlay of Rs 1.97 Lakh Cr
• Minister of Commerce & Industry: Piyush Goyal | Constituency – Maharashtra
• MoS in Ministry of Commerce & Industry: Anupriya Singh Patel & Som Parkash

271. On February 13, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Giriraj Singh, inaugurated the pilot
project titled “Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram Panchayat”
at Paprour Gram Panchayat under Barauni Block of Begusarai District in Bihar to extend PM-
WANI Service in Gram Panchayats. Begusarai is poised to lead this digital transformation in
Bihar as the first district where all Gram Panchayats will be equipped with Wi-Fi services
under the PM-WANI Scheme. The pilot project is funded under the revamped Rashtriya
Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) implemented by Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and it aims to
extend the Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) service to 455 Gram
Panchayats across 37 Blocks in Begusarai and Rohtas districts of Bihar for FY 2023-24. Bihar government, in collaboration
with BSNL, will ensure effective execution and operationalization of the project. This initiative will notably benefit
students, farmers, artisans and Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) among others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Giriraj Singh – inaugurated pilot project “Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram
Panchayat”
• Aim – to extend PM-WANI service to 455 Gram Panchayats in Begusarai and Rohtas districts of Bihar for FY 2023-24
• The pilot project is funded under – revamped RGSA, implemented by Ministry of Panchayati Raj
• Begusarai – to be Bihar’s 1st district where all Gram Panchayats will be equipped with Wi-Fi services under PM-WANI
• PM-WANI – Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface
• Bihar + BSNL = will ensure effective execution and operationalization of the project
• Minister of Panchayati Raj: Giriraj Singh | Constituency – Begusarai, Bihar
• Mos in Ministry of Panchayati Raj: Kapil Moreshwar Patil
• Bihar: Capital – Patna | CM – Nitish Kumar | Governor – Rajendra Vishwanath Arleka
• HQs of BSNL – New Delhi | CMD – Pravin Kumar Purwar

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272. On February 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government is
launching the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ which aims to light up 1 crore households by
providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month. The project would entail an
investment of over Rs 75,000 crore. The central government will ensure from substantive
subsidies (which will be given directly to people’s bank accounts) to heavily concessional bank
loans. All stakeholders will be integrated to a National Online Portal. Earlier, the scheme was
announced as ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Yojana’ by PM Modi after the consecration ceremony
in Ayodhya. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – to launch ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ (Earlier name - ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryoday Yojana’)
• Investment – over Rs 75,000 Cr
• Aim – to light up 1 Cr households by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month

273. Odisha government launched the ‘Swatantra Yuva Udyami Scheme (SWAYAM)’ scheme at an estimated cost of Rs 448
crore to provide Rs 1 lakh as interest-free bank loans to rural unemployed youths between 18-35 years (18-40 years for
special category) for initiating a new business venture. They must have a family income of less than Rs 2 lakh per annum,
without outstanding loans from Central and State government-supported schemes. The Swayam scheme will be
operational for a period of 2 years. The interest on the loan will be borne by the State government. Odisha government
also announced a one-time livelihood cash assistance of Rs 1,000 in cash to each of the 95,90,526 families covered by the
Public Distribution System (PDS) in Odisha. In another important decision, the State government has expanded an existing
scheme, now called “KHUSI+”, to distribute belted sanitary napkins for cases of institutional deliveries and medical
termination of pregnancy (MTP) in government facilities. As per the ‘National Family Heath Survey 5’, in Odisha, 81.5% of
women use hygienic menstrual protection, the highest in India, and higher than the national average of 77.3%. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Odisha – launched ‘Swatantra Yuva Udyami Scheme (SWAYAM)’ scheme to provide Rs 1 lakh as interest-free bank
loans to rural unemployed youths
• Estimated cost – Rs 448 Cr | Eligibile Age– 18-35 years (18-40 years for special category)
• Eligibility – family income of less than Rs 2 lakh per annum, without outstanding loans from Central & State govt-
supported schemes
• The scheme will be operational for 2 years
• Odisha – also announced a one-time livelihood cash assistance of Rs 1,000 in cash covered by PDS in Odisha
• Odisha – expanded an existing scheme, now called “KHUSI+”
• Aim – to distribute belted sanitary napkins for cases of institutional deliveries & MTP in government facilities
• 81.5% of women use hygienic menstrual protection, highest in India (National average – 77.3%)
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

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274. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various developmental projects worth Rs 7,500
crore in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh. The projects will benefit the significant tribal population of the region. Prime Minister
disbursed monthly instalments of Aahar Anudan under ‘Aahar Anudan Yojna’ to about 2 lakh women beneficiaries. Under
this scheme, Rs 1,500 per month is provided for nutritious food to women of various especially backward tribes of Madhya
Pradesh. Prime Minister Modi will also distribute 1.75 lakh Adhikar Abhilekh (record of rights) to beneficiaries of the
SVAMITVA Scheme. This will provide documentary evidence to people for the right to their land. He also transferd Rs
55.90 crores for 559 villages under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana’ and laid the foundation stone of ‘CM Rise
School’ in Jhabua. The foundation stone was also laid for the ‘Talavada Project’ which is a drinking water supply scheme
for more than 1000 villages of Dhar and Ratlam. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated & laid foundation stone of developmental projects worth Rs 7,500 Cr in Jhabua, MP
• He also disbursed monthly instalments of Aahar Anudan under ‘Aahar Anudan Yojna’ to women beneficiaries
• Rs 1,500 per month is provided under the scheme for nutritious food to women of backward tribes of MP
• He also distributed 1.75 lakh Adhikar Abhilekh (record of rights) to beneficiaries of the SVAMITVA Scheme
• He also transferd Rs 55.90 Cr for 559 villages under ‘Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana’
• He also laid the foundation stone of ‘CM Rise School’ in Jhabua
• He also laid the foundation stone of ‘Talavada Project’, a drinking water supply scheme
• Madhya Pradesh: Capital – Bhopal | CM – Mohan Yadav | Governor – Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel

275. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched “Support to Students for Participating in
Competitions Abroad (SSPCA)” scheme for encouraging Indian students to participate in global competitions. Students
aspiring to represent India on the global stage receive comprehensive support, including financial assistance, mentorship,
and logistical guidance. The AICTE’s SSPCA scheme provides financial assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh per student on a
reimbursement basis. Furthermore, the scheme provides a travel grant for individual students or student teams wishing to
compete in international competitions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AICTE – launched “Support to Students for Participating in Competitions Abroad (SSPCA)” scheme
• It will provide financial assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh per student on a reimbursement basis & travel grant
• Aim – to encourage Indian students to participate in global competitions
• HQs of AICTE – New Delhi | Chairman – T. G. Sitharam (AICTE functions under Ministry of Education)

276. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced a hike of Rs 500 each in the monthly
pension for the distressed people covered under the “Madhu Babu Pension Yojana”. As many
as 36.75 lakh beneficiaries would receive the revised amount from February, 2024. The
beneficiaries include elderly, widows, persons with disabilities, unmarried women, AIDS
patients, transgenders, orphan children and widows of COVID victims. Under the MBPY
scheme, beneficiaries up to 79 years of age were eligible for a monthly pension of Rs 500,
while those beyond 80 years Rs 700 per month. Similarly, beneficiaries with 60% or more
disability and above 80 years of age were eligible for a monthly pension of Rs 900. They will now get Rs 1,000, Rs 1,200
and Rs 1,400 per month, respectively. In 2008, the state government introduced the Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY)
after merging two old schemes of the 1980s. The state will now spend Rs 3,683 crore towards payment of pension under
social security schemes. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• Naveen Patnaik – announced hike of Rs 500 each in monthly pension covered under “Madhu Babu Pension Yojana”
• The beneficiaries include – elderly, widows, persons with disabilities, unmarried women, AIDS patients,
transgenders, orphan children & widows of COVID victims
• Revised pension announced under MBPY scheme (introduced in 2008)
- Rs 1,000 – up to 79 years of age (Earlier – Rs 500)
- Rs 1,200 – beyond 80 years (Earlier – Rs 700)
- Rs 1,400 – above 80 years of age & with 60% or more disability (Earlier – Rs 900)
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

277. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched “Asha Kirana Eye Care at Your
Doorstep” scheme under the aegis of ‘National Programme for Control of Blindness and
Visual Impairment’. Comprehensive eye check-ups will be done by Health personnel and
ASHA workers for individuals across all age groups under the ‘Asha Kirana’ scheme. Free
spectacles will be provided to the visually impaired and cataract surgeries will be done free of
cost. Also, free surgeries will be performed for cataract patients at government hospitals and
hospitals of registered voluntary organisations. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka – launched “Asha Kirana Eye Care at Your Doorstep” scheme
• It was launched under the aegis of ‘National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment’
• Key features of the scheme:
- Comprehensive eye check-ups
- Free spectacles to the visually impaired
- Free Cataract surgeries
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot

278. The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of Department of Water Resources for continuation of centrally sponsored
Scheme, “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)”, for a period of 5 years from 2021-22 to 2025-26
with total outlay of Rs 4,100 crore. Under the Flood Management Programme (FMP) component of FMBAP with an outlay
of Rs 2940 crore, central assistance will be provided to State Governments for taking up critical works related to flood
control, anti-erosion, drainage development and anti-sea erosion, etc. Under River Management and Border Areas (RMBA)
component of FMBAP with an outlay of Rs 1160 crore, flood control and anti-erosion works on common border rivers with
neighbouring countries and investigation & pre-construction activities of joint water resources projects on common
border rivers will be taken up with 100% central assistance. The Scheme has the provision of incentivizing the States which
implement flood plain zoning, recognized as an effective non-structural measure for flood management. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI approved for continuation of centrally sponsored, “Flood Management & Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)”
• It is extended for 5 years (2021-22 to 2025-26) with total outlay of Rs 4,100 Cr
• Outlay of Flood Management Programme (FMP) component of FMBAP – Rs 2940 Cr
• Outlay of River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component of FMBAP – Rs 1160 Cr
• States will be incentivized for implementing flood plain zoning as non-structural measure for flood management

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279. Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has so far provided grants to 639 projects under the ‘Integrated
Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC)’ which is one of the components of ‘Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)’. AVYAY is
implemented by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment to take care of various needs of Senior Citizens
including shelter, food, healthcare and human interaction/ life of dignity. Other components of the AVYAY Scheme are
State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC), Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY), Elderline - National Helpline for Senior
Citizens, Senior-care Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE), and Geriatric Caregivers Training. Under the IPSrC, the grant in aid is
provided to Non-Governmental/ Voluntary Organizations for running and maintenance of Senior Citizens’ Homes (old age
homes). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoSJE – provided grants to 639 projects under ‘IPSrC’, a component of AVYAY
• IPSrC – Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens | AVYAY – Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana
• IPSrC – provides grant in aid to Non-Governmental/ Voluntary Organizations for Senior Citizens’ Homes
• AVYAY – implemented by Dept of SJE to take care of various needs of Senior Citizens
• Other components of the AVYAY Scheme:
- State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC)
- Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)
- Elderline - National Helpline for Senior Citizens
- Senior-care Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE)
- Geriatric Caregivers Training
• Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment: Virendra Kumar | Constituency – Sagar, Madhya Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment: Ramdas Athawale

280. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the “CM Jan Arogya Yojana (CMJAY)” aiming
to provide free healthcare services to indoor patients up to primary health centre level and
empanelled private hospitals of the state & outside. Tripura is the first northeastern state to
have introduced universal health insurance coverage for all on the lines of Ayushman Bharat
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to provide coverage of Rs 5 lakh to each
family per annum. State govt will spend Rs 104 crore on the implementation of the scheme
this year. The whole process would be cashless and patients under this scheme would get free medicines from the hospital
for 15 days on being discharged after any critical illness. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tripura – launched “CM Jan Arogya Yojana (CMJAY)” | Financial outlay – Rs 104 Cr (by state)
• Aim – to provide free healthcare services to indoor patients up to primary health centre level & private hospitals
• Tripura – first northeastern state to introduce universal health insurance coverage for all
• The state will provide coverage of Rs 5 lakh to each family per annum
• Patients would also get free medicines from hospital for 15 days on being discharged after any critical illness
• Tripura: Capital – Agartala | CM – Manik Saha | Governor – Indra Sena Reddy Nallu

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281. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has raised deposit limits under Senior Citizens
Savings Scheme (SCSS) and Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS). SCSS deposit limit
has been raised from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 30 lakh, while POMIS limit has been doubled from Rs 4.5
lakh to Rs 9 lakh. Moreover, ahead of the Budget Speech 2023, several experts suggested that
the Government should enhance the deduction limit under Section 80C to at least Rs 2 lakh
from the current Rs 1.5 lakh per year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nirmala Sitharaman has raised deposit limits under following schemes:
- Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) deposit limit – raised from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 30 lakh
- Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) deposit limit – raised from Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 9 lakh
• Minister of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaowdhary & Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad

282. To support production of natural rubber in the country, the Indian

government has increased the allocation under the “Sustainable and Inclusive
Development of Natural Rubber Sector” scheme by 23% to Rs 708.69 crore for the
next 2 financial years (2024-26). The scheme is implemented through the Rubber
Board. The funds will be used for supporting the plantation of rubber, generation of
planting material, productivity enhancement, formation of rubber producers
societies, and rubber research and training. However, there is no consideration for
any change in the import duty on rubber, as of now. Currently, the import duty on
natural rubber is 25% or Rs 30/kg, whichever is higher. Planting of rubber will be undertaken on 12,000 hectares in
traditional areas during 2024-25 and 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs 43.50 crore. For this, the rate of assistance has been
increased to Rs 40,000 per hectare from the earlier Rs 25,000 per hectare. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI – increased allocation under “Sustainable and Inclusive Development of Natural Rubber Sector” scheme
• New allocation for 2024-26 – Rs 708.69 Cr (23% increase)
• The scheme is implemented through – Rubber Board
• Current import duty on natural rubber – 25% or Rs 30/kg, whichever is higher
• Planting of rubber will be undertaken on 12,000 hectares in traditional areas with an outlay of Rs 43.50 Cr
• Rate of assistance increased to – Rs 40,000 per hectare (earlier - Rs 25,000 per hectare)
• HQs of Rubber Board – Kottayam | Chairman – Sawar Dhanania

283. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, while presenting the State Budget for 2024-25, announced a fully-funded
“Universal Life Insurance” scheme. A life insurance coverage of Rs 2 lakh will be given and additionally, accidental
insurance coverage of Rs 2 lakh each will also be provided for the breadwinner and 3 other family members. The
accidental insurance component covers both disability and death. This scheme will cover every household in Nagaland and
a provision of Rs 15 crore has been provided to pay the cost of premium. Besides, the Local Area Development Fund
(LADF) allocation has been hiked to Rs 2 crore from Rs 1 crore for each constituency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Neiphiu Rio – launched a fully-funded “Universal Life Insurance” scheme with coverage of Rs 2 lakh
• Accidental insurance coverage of Rs 2 lakh each will also be provided for breadwinner & 3 other family members
• Provision provided to pay cost of premium – Rs 15 Cr

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284. Uttar Pradesh government has increased the grant given in six categories under the
“Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana”, from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000, beginning financial
year 2024-25. The increase in grant amount will be effective from April 1, 2024. This amount is
provided from the birth of daughters up to admission in undergraduate/ diploma courses. As
per the order, the initial amount of Rs 2,000 given at the time of birth has been increased to Rs
5000. Similarly, Rs 1,000 was given for the completion of all vaccinations in one year, which has
been increased to Rs 2,000. In April 2019, the UP government launched the Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana to
eradicate female foeticide, foster gender equality, prevent child marriages, enhance the health and education of girls,
offer support for their self-reliance and cultivate a positive societal perception towards girls. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UP – increased grant in 6 categories under “Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana”, from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000
• The increase in grant amount will be effective from April 1, 2024
• This amount is provided from the birth of daughters up to admission in undergraduate/ diploma courses
• Initial amount of Rs 2,000 given at the time of birth – increased to Rs 5000
• Amount for completion of all vaccinations in one year (Rs 1000) – increased to Rs 2000
• UP government – launched Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana in April 2019
• Aim – eradicate female foeticide, foster gender equality, prevent child marriages, enhance health & education etc
• UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel

285. MSME Minister Narayan Rane launched a special scheme for informal micro
enterprises (IMEs), called “Special Provision for Informal Micro Enterprises under Credit
Guarantee Scheme”. The scheme is for the IMEs which are exempted from the Goods
and Services Tax (GST) regime, to access collateral-free loans up to Rs 20 lakh under the
government’s Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).
The scheme enables micro or nano enterprises with credit support from lenders and
aims at moderating the credit risk perception. According to the circular pertaining to
the scheme issued by CGTMSE to all its Member Lending Institutions (MLIs), up to 85% guarantee cover will be provided to
lenders for unsecured loans up to Rs 20 lakh given to IMEs registered on the Udyam portal. Importantly, Finance Minister
Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget 2023 speech had announced a Rs 9,000 crore fund infusion in the CGTMSE corpus to
enable additional collateral-free credit of Rs 2 lakh crore to MSMEs and to reduce the cost of credit by 1%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Narayan Rane – launched “Special Provision for Informal Micro Enterprises under Credit Guarantee Scheme”
• It is a special scheme for IMEs to access collateral-free loans up to Rs 20 lakh under the government’s CGTMSE
• The scheme is for the IMEs which are exempted from GST regime
• Up to 85% guarantee cover will be provided to lenders for unsecured loans up to Rs 20 lakh given to registered IMEs
registered on the Udyam portal
• Nirmala Sitharaman – had announced a Rs 9,000 Cr fund infusion in CGTMSE corpus in her Budget 2023 speech
• It was announced to enable additional collateral-free credit of Rs 2 lakh Cr to MSMEs & reduce cost of credit by 1%

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286. Odisha government has decided to introduce the “Nua-O Scholarship Scheme” for undergraduate and postgraduate
students. Under the initiative, male students will get Rs 9,000 annually, while female students will receive Rs 10,000. Male
students belonging to SC/ST and Nirman Shramik (construction worker) families will get Rs 10,000, while female students
of the categories will receive Rs 11,000 annually. The Nutana Unnata Abhilasha (NUA) Odisha scheme aims to empower
youth with continuous skilling, re-skilling, and up-skilling opportunities. With a budget of Rs 385 crore for 2023-24 to 2025-
26 fiscals, the scheme will cover all 30 districts, prioritising tribal and remote areas. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Odisha – introduced “Nua-O Scholarship Scheme” for undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Aim – to empower youth with continuous skilling, re-skilling, and up-skilling opportunities
• Budget – Rs 385 Cr for 2023-24 to 2025-26 fiscals
• Annual Scholarship for Male students – Rs 9,000 (Rs 10,000 for male students of the categories)
• Annual Scholarship for Female students – Rs 10,000 (Rs 11,000 for female students of the categories)
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

Meetings, Conferences & Summits

287. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the first “World Odia Language
Conference-2024” in Bhubaneswar and announced to come up with a special
language policy aimed at promotion of Odia language. Over 100 scholars including
linguists from 4 countries participated in the 3-day-long conference. During the
event, Mr. Patnaik conferred linguist Devi Prasanna Patnaik with the first ‘World
Odia Language Award’ for his lifelong dedication to the development of the Odia.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated two Odia Jnanpith awardees winners
Padma Vibhushan Sitakanth Mahapatra and Padma Bhushan Pratibha Roy. To mark
the occasion, people sang the State sang ‘Bande Utkal Janani’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Naveen Patnaik – inaugurated first “World Odia Language Conference-2024” in Bhubaneswar
• linguist Devi Prasanna Patnaik – conferred with the first ‘World Odia Language Award’
• He also felicitated two Odia Jnanpith awardees winners – Sitakanth Mahapatra & Pratibha Roy
• ‘Bande Utkal Janani’ song was sung at the event
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Naveen Patnaik | Governor – Raghubar Das

288. Directorate General of Foreign Trade, under Ministry of Commerce & Industry, in partnership with the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA) and other Government Agencies organised the “National Conference on Strategic Trade Controls
(NCSTC)” in New Delhi, focusing on India’s Strategic Trade Control (related to Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials,
Equipment & Technologies (SCOMET), and Export Controls) system and its International Best Practices, for ensuring
compliance related to the export of dual-use (industrial & military) goods, software and technologies. The conference
mainly focuses on outreach to the Industry especially for those dealing in sectors regulated under India’s SCOMET list.
{Read more}

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289. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s largest and first-of-its-kind
mobility exhibition, “Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024”, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The theme of the expo was “Beyond Boundaries - Co-creating Future Automotive Value
Chain”. Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 showcased India’s capabilities across mobility
and automotive value chains and featured exhibitions, conferences, buyer-seller meets,
state sessions, road safety pavilion, and public-centric attractions like go-karting. With
over 800 exhibitors from 50+ countries, the Expo highlighted cutting-edge technologies,
sustainable solutions and breakthroughs in mobility. The Expo featured participation from
over 28 vehicle manufacturers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated India’s largest mobility exhibition, “Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024” in New Delhi
• Theme – “Beyond Boundaries - Co-creating Future Automotive Value Chain”

290. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) will host the 67th ‘All India Police Duty Meet (AIPDM)’ at Jagjivan Ram RPF
Academy in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, from February 12 to 16, 2024. This event aims to promote excellence and
collaboration among police officers towards scientific detection and investigation of crimes in order to enhance internal
security. The Meet is also a call for law enforcement professionals to come together, learn, and strengthen their collective
pursuit of investigative excellence. It is noteworthy that RPF has 9% representation of women which is the highest
percentage among all Armed Forces in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RPF – to host 67th ‘All India Police Duty Meet (AIPDM)’ at Jagjivan Ram RPF Academy in Lucknow, UP
• RPF has 9% representation of women (highest percentage among all Armed Forces in India)
• HQs of RPF – New Delhi, India | Director General – Manoj Yadava

291. The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), the apex think tank of the
Ministry of Corporate Affairs, hosted the 1st edition of “The Great Indian Board
Reboot: Roadshow 2024” at the NSE Headquarters in Mumbai. This landmark
inaugural event, conducted in partnership with National Stock Exchange (NSE) and
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), marked a significant milestone in the Indian
corporate governance landscape, bringing together over 200 delegates, including
prominent business leaders, regulatory authorities, and corporate governance
experts. The event underscored the evolving challenges and opportunities in corporate governance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IICA – hosted 1st edition of “The Great Indian Board Reboot: Roadshow 2024” at the NSE Headquarters in Mumbai
• It was conducted in partnership with NSE & BSE
• IICA – is the apex think tank of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

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292. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated “India Energy Week

2024” in Goa. It is the 2nd edition of India’s largest and only all-
encompassing energy exhibition and conference being organized by the
Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) at the IPSHEM-ONGC
Training Institute from 6 to 9 February, 2024. It is expected to witness the
participation of around 17 Energy ministers from different countries. It
will have 6 dedicated country pavilions - Canada, Germany, Netherlands,
Russia, the UK and the USA. The Prime Minister highlighted that India is
the world’s 3rd largest energy, oil and LPG consumer. Furthermore, he said India is the 4th largest LNG importer and refiner
along with the 4th largest automobile market. FIPI functions under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated 2nd edition of “India Energy Week 2024” in Goa
• Organized by – Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) at IPSHEM-ONGC Training Institute
• FIPI – functions under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
• It is India’s largest and only all-encompassing energy exhibition and conference
• It will have 6 dedicated country pavilions – Canada, Germany, Netherlands, Russia, UK & USA
• India – world’s 3rd largest energy, oil and LPG consumer
• India – is 4th largest LNG importer & refiner + 4th largest automobile market
• Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas: Hardeep Singh Puri | Constituency – Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas: Rameswar Teli
• Goa: Capital – Panaji | CM – Pramod Sawant | Governor – P. S. Sreedharan Pillai

293. Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, addressed the inaugural session of the
23rd edition of the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) in New Delhi. It is
organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) from February 7-9, 2024 under
the theme “Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice”. The three-day
Summit saw ministers, leaders and subject experts from across the globe deliberate on
addressing the escalating climate crises and sliding back of SDGs. During the conference,
R. K. Singh announced setting up of a ‘Centre for Energy Transition’, a collaborative
initiative between the Government of India and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Jagdeep Dhankhar – addressed inaugural session of 23rd World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) in Delhi
• Organised by – The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
• Theme – “Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice”
• During the conference, R. K. Singh announced setting up of a ‘Centre for Energy Transition’ (GoI + TERI)
• HQs of TERI – New Delhi | DG – Dr. Vibha Dhawan | Established in – 1974

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294. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) organized the “Road to Paris 2024:
Championing Clean Sports and Uniting for Anti-Doping” Conference at the India
International Centre in New Delhi. On this occasion, Minister of Youth Affairs and
Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, inaugurated the “Centre of Excellence for Nutritional
Supplements Testing (CoE-NSTS)” at the esteemed National Forensic Sciences
University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The Conference marked the occasion
with the launch of a comprehensive publication, “Essential Insights & Facts on
Nutritional Supplements”, aimed at providing athletes with valuable insights into nutritional standards and safety
measures tailored for their well-being. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NADA – organized “Road to Paris 2024: Championing Clean Sports and Uniting for Anti-Doping” Conference
• It was organized at – India International Centre in New Delhi
• Anurag Singh Thakur – inaugurated “CoE for Nutritional Supplements Testing (CoE-NSTS)” at NFSU in Gandhinagar
• “Essential Insights & Facts on Nutritional Supplements” was also launched at the conference
• Aim – providing athletes with valuable insights into nutritional standards & safety measures for their well-being
• HQs of NADA – New Delhi | Director-General & CEO – Ritu Sain

295. India, Türkiye, and Qatar have been declared the guests of honor at the “2024 World
Governments Summit” which is taking place in Dubai, UAE, from February 12-14, 2024. The
summit, themed ‘Shaping Future Governments,’ will see the participation of over 25
government and state heads from around the world. The delegations from Türkiye, India, and
Qatar will be led by their respective leaders - President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, and Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin
Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The guest countries will showcase their successful
government experiences and best developmental practices during the summit, which will
bring together thought leaders, experts, and representatives of over 85 international and regional organisations with 120
governmental delegations, and 4,000 attendees. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 World Governments Summit” – held in Dubai, UAE | Theme – ‘Shaping Future Governments’
• India, Türkiye, & Qatar – declared as the guests of honor
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

296. External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar addressed the inaugural session
of the 7th “Indian Ocean Conference” hosted by Australia in Perth. The two-day
Indian Ocean Conference was themed “Towards a Stable and Sustainable
Indian Ocean”. The Conference is a flagship consultative forum for countries in
the Indian Ocean Region, organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs
since 2016, in association with the India Foundation. The Conference featured
Ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and 6
multilateral organizations. The 1st such conference was hosted by Singapore in 2016. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 7th “Indian Ocean Conference” – hosted by Australia in Perth
• Inaugural session was addressed by – Dr. S Jaishankar

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297. The headquarters of the Confederation of International Small Tea Holders (CITS) will shift to India from China. The
decision was taken recently at the 25th session of the FAO Intergovernmental Group on Tea (FAO IGG on Tea) held in
Guwahati, Assam. The session was presided over by Saurav Pahari, Deputy Chairman of Tea Board India. India took over as
the chair of the FAO IGG on Tea from the United Kingdom for the next 2 years. The Food and Agricultural Organisation
(FAO) IGG on Tea, which is under the United Nations, also decided to take up the issue of climate change and assess
carbon footprint of tea plantations globally. It was also decided to set up a dedicated research and development centre at
Tea Research Association (TRA), Tocklai, in Assam’s Jorhat district. The FAO IGG on Tea is the highest global platform for
tea wherein all tea-producing and consuming nations deliberate on trends in production, consumption, trade and prices of
tea. Sri Lanka will host the next IGG session after two years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 25th session of FAO IGG on Tea – held in Guwahati, Assam | Presided over by – Saurav Pahari
• HQs of Confederation of International Small Tea Holders (CITS) – will shift to India from China
• A dedicated R&D centre will be set up at – Tea Research Association (TRA), Tocklai (in Jorhat, Assam)
• FAO IGG on Tea – is the highest global platform for tea
• Sri Lanka – will host the next IGG session after two years
• HQs of Tea Board India – Kolkata, West Bengal | Chairman – Amardeep Singh Bhatia

298. On February 11, Secretary of Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, inaugurated
‘World Unani Day 2024’ and the ‘National Conference on Unani Medicine for One Earth, One
Health’, organized by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) at Pusa, New
Delhi. The event was also attended by Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, Chairman of National
Commission for Indian System of Medicine, New Delhi. On this occasion, various publications
and e-books, a Mobile App on Unani compound drugs, and a documentary, all developed by the
CCRUM, were released during the event. Furthermore, NABH and NABL certificates were awarded to four CCRUM
institutes, and an MoU was exchanged between CCRUM and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha – inaugurated ‘World Unani Day 2024’
• He also inaugurated – ‘National Conference on Unani Medicine for One Earth, One Health’
• It was organized by – Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) at – Pusa, New Delhi
• NABH and NABL certificates were awarded to four CCRUM institutes
• CCRUM + CCMB, Hyderabad = also signed an MoU
• Ministry of AYUSH: Sarbananda Sonowal | Constituency – Majuli, Asssam
• MoS in Ministry of AYUSH: Munjapara Mahendrabhai

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299. The second edition of the World Defense Show (WDS 2024) was held from February
4-8, 2024 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center in Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia. The show was organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI)
with the theme of “Equipped for Tomorrow”. The show is a platform for the defense
industry to network, partner, and share knowledge, and to discover new innovations and
capabilities. Ajay Bhatt, MoS in MoD, led the Indian delegation at WDS 2024. Squadron
Leader Bhawana Kanth (IAF), Colonel Ponung Doming (Indian Army), and Lieutenant
Commander Annu Prakash (Indian Navy) represented India at the WDS 2024. Pune-based Munitions India Limited (MIL)
signed a $225 million contract for the supply of Artillery Ammunition to Saudi Arabia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd World Defense Show (WDS 2024) – held at Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center in Riyadh
• Organized by – General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) | Theme – “Equipped for Tomorrow”
• Indian delegation was led by – Ajay Bhatt
• MIL (Pune) – signed a $225 million contract for the supply of Artillery Ammunition to Saudi Arabia
• Saudi Arabia – Riyadh – Saudi Riyal | PM – Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud | King – Salman bin Abdulaziz

300. Union Minister of Food Processing Shri Pashupati Kumar Paras inaugurated the
“SUFALAM: Start-Up Forum for Aspiring Leaders and Mentors Startup Conclave 2024” and
emphasised the pivotal role of startups in the food processing sector. ‘SUFALAM’ emerges as a
pivotal platform aimed at catalyzing innovation, fostering collaboration, and driving growth
within the food processing industry. The event witnessed participation from over 250 industry
stakeholders, startups, MSMEs, financial institutions, venture capitalists, and academia. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Pashupati Kumar Paras – inaugurated “SUFALAM: Start-Up Forum for Aspiring Leaders and Mentors Startup
Conclave 2024”
• Aim – Catalyzing innovation, fostering collaboration, and driving growth within food processing industry
• Minister of Food Processing Industries: Pashu Pati Kumar Paras | Constituency – Hajipur, Bihar
• MoS in Ministry of Food Processing Industries: Shobha Karandlaje

301. Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, R. K. Singh, inaugurated
the “Indian Power Stations O&M Conference 2024” hosted by NTPC Limited in Raipur,
Chhattisgarh. The theme for the 2024 edition of the conference is “Operations &
Maintenance Practices for Safe, Reliable & Cost-Effective Power Generation”. The
flagship event commemorates the historic commissioning of the first unit of NTPC at
Singrauli in 1982. IPS 2024 serves as a platform for industry leaders to engage in
collaborative discussions to explore innovative strategies to enhance safety, reliability,
and cost-effectiveness in power generation. During the conference, the Union Minister released the IPS 2024 E-
Compendium, Steam Turbine E-Learning Module and Boilerpedia. The Minister also inaugurated ‘Vikalp’, a unique ash-
brick made from industrial byproducts. The occasion also witnessed presentation of Swarn Shakti Awards (2022-2023) and
Business Excellence Awards (2023-2024), recognising the outstanding contributions of NTPC power stations. NTPC Talcher
Kaniha claimed the coveted title of Overall Champion (Winner) of the Swarn Shakti Award 2022-2023, while NTPC
Vindhyachal emerged as Overall Champion (Winner) of Business Excellence Award 2023-2024. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• NTPC – inaugurated “Indian Power Stations O&M Conference 2024” in Raipur, Chhattisgarh
• Theme – “Operations & Maintenance Practices for Safe, Reliable & Cost-Effective Power Generation”
• Inaugurated by – R. K. Singh | It commemorates the historic commissioning of first unit of NTPC at Singrauli in 1982
• R. K. Singh – released IPS 2024 E-Compendium, Steam Turbine E-Learning Module & Boilerpedia
• He also inaugurated – ‘Vikalp’, a unique ash-brick made from industrial byproducts
• Swarn Shakti Awards (2022-2023) & Business Excellence Awards (2023-2024) were also presented at the event:
- Overall Champion (Winner) of Swarn Shakti Award 2022-2023 – NTPC Talcher Kaniha
- Overall Champion (Winner) of Business Excellence Award 2023-2024 – NTPC Vindhyachal
• HQs of NTPC – New Delhi | CMD – Gurdeep Singh | Founded in – 1975
• Minister of Power and Ministry New & Renewable Energy: Raj Kumar Singh | Constituency – Arrah, Bihar
• MoS in Ministry of Power: Krishan Pal Gurjar

302. Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and National Solar Energy Federation of
India (NSEFI) jointly organized a 2-day “International Conference on Solar Thermal
Technologies” in New Delhi during February 12 to 13, 2024, to deliberate on
integration of Solar Thermal and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) storage with
Renewable Technologies. The conference aims to understand the global landscape in
Solar Thermal technologies, their integration with Renewable Energy power
generation sources, storage applications, and the potential of such applications in the
Indian context. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SECI + NSEFI = jointly organized “International Conference on Solar Thermal Technologies” in New Delhi
• Aim – integration of Solar Thermal and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) storage with Renewable Technologies
• HQs of SECI – New Delhi | CMD – Rameshwar Prasad Gupta | Founded on – Sep 9, 2011
• HQs of NSEFI – New Delhi | DG – Deepak Gupta | Chairman – K. Ravi Kumar Reddy

303. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration

with the National Institute of Electronics and IT (NIELIT), hosted the 1st ever
“Future Skills Summit 2024” in Guwahati, Assam. The event was inaugurated by
Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The Summit
aimed to bring together young Indians, thought leaders, industry experts,
policymakers, educators, and technology enthusiasts to discuss strategies for
catalyzing future-ready talent for India and the world. The summit included 4
panel discussions on the themes - Semicon India, IndiaAI, Cyber Security & Emerging Technologies, and Digital India’s
Talent for the Global Workforce. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MeitY + NIELIT = hosted the 1st ever “Future Skills Summit 2024” in Guwahati, Assam
• Aim – to discuss strategies for catalyzing future-ready talent for India & world
• Themes of 4 panel discussions:
- Semicon India

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304. The 16th ‘Conference of the World Social Forum (WSF)’ began in
Kathmandu on February 15, 2024. The conference is a 5-day event under the
banner “Another World is Possible”. It aims to exchange ideas between civil
society organizations, social movements, trade unions, and individuals who
oppose neoliberal globalization. Some 40,000 people from 92 countries are
expected to participate in the WSF. This edition of the WSF will focus on a
myriad of pressing issues including economic inequality, climate justice, labour,
migration, caste discrimination, gender equality, peace, sustainable development and many others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 16th ‘Conference of World Social Forum (WSF)’ – held in Kathmandu under banner – “Another World is Possible”
• Nepal – Kathmandu – Nepalese Rupee | President – Ram Chandra Poudel | PM – Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’

305. The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation had organised a “National Conference
on Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission - Grameen (G)” on February 16 & 17, 2024,
in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Designed for ensuring “A Unified Approach Towards Sustainable
Solutions in Rural WASH Sector”, this significant conference united diverse stakeholders from
various States/UTs for dynamic exchange of ideas and best practices. The conference focused
on key themes like Innovation, Collaboration, Sustainability, and O&M. Crucial sessions
covering Faecal Sludge Management, Grey Water Management, Digitization, Innovative Practices in Liquid Waste
Management (LWM), Plastic Waste Management (PWM), Solid Waste Management (SWM), Menstrual Waste
Management, and Innovative Technologies were held. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “National Conference on Jal Jeevan Mission & Swachh Bharat Mission - Grameen (G)” – held in Lucknow, UP
• Organised by – Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation
• It was designed for – “A Unified Approach Towards Sustainable Solutions in Rural WASH Sector”
• Minister of Jal Shakti: Gajendra Singh Sekhawat | Constituency – Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• MoS for Jal Shakti – Rajeev Chandrasekhar

306. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), in collaboration with the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP), organised the 2-day ‘National Workshop on
Urban Livelihoods’ under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods
Mission (DAY-NULM) in Ranchi, Jharkhand. With participation from about 150
delegates from across the country, the workshop served as a platform for high-level
deliberations on emerging trends and opportunities in urban livelihoods, with a
primary focus on bolstering resilience and empowerment for women across urban India. {Read more}

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307. The much-anticipated “INDUS-X Summit” was held on February 20-21, 2024
in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between
India and the United States in defence innovation. It was organised by Innovations
for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Ministry of Defence, and Department of
Defence (DoD), US, in conjunction with the US-India Business Council and Society
of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The summit aims to be a pivotal event
driving strategic technology partnerships and defence industrial cooperation between India and the USA. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “INDUS-X Summit” – held on in New Delhi as collaborative efforts between India & US in defence innovation
• Organised by = iDEX (MoD) + DoD (US) + US-India Business Council + SIDM
• Ministry of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Defence: Ajay Bhatt

308. The 1st ‘Council Meeting of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)’ took
place recently in Washington DC, US. The delegates set down rules for the
implementation of GBFF, which was proposed during 15th Conference of Parties
(COP15) of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 2022. Delegates approved the
‘Resource Allocation Policy’ and the ‘Project Cycle Policy’, which will help the council
allocate donor funds when they are available. The GBFF Resource Allocation Policy gives
the GEF chief executive the authority to approve projects worth up to $5 million. Global
Environment Facility (GEF) is the implementing agency for GBFF. The world requires at
least $200 billion a year until 2030 to fund biodiversity protection programmes, as assessed during COP15. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 1st ‘Council Meeting of Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)’ – took place in Washington DC, US
• GBFF – was proposed during COP15 of Convention on Biological Diversity in 2022
• ‘Resource Allocation Policy’ & ‘Project Cycle Policy’ – were approved by delegates
• Implementing agency for GBFF – Global Environment Facility (GEF)
• GBFF Resource Allocation Policy gives GEF chief executive the authority to approve projects worth up to $5 million
• The world requires at least $200 billion a year until 2030 to fund biodiversity protection programmes
• US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris

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309. Ruchira Kamboj, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, chaired the
62nd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD62), marking a historic moment
for India. It was the first time since 1975 that India has held this esteemed position within the
Commission for Social Development. The priority theme of the 62nd session was, “Fostering
Social Development and Social Justice through Social Policies to Accelerate Progress on the
Implementation of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to Achieve the Overarching
Goal of Poverty Eradication”. Ambassador Kamboj also welcomed Poland as the incoming
Chair, who will preside over the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD) in 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ruchira Kamboj – chaired 62nd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD62)
• Ruchira Kamboj – Permanent Representative of India to UN
• Poland – will preside over the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD) in 2025
• Poland – Warsaw – Polish Zloty | President – Andrzej Sebastin Duda | PM – Donald Tusk

310. On February 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th edition of
“Raisina Dialogue” in New Delhi. Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis joined the
inaugural session as the Chief Guest. The theme of this edition is “Chaturanga: Conflict,
Contest, Cooperate, Create”. The 3-day Dialogue is witnessing participation of
representatives from over 100 countries including Ministers, former Heads of State and
Heads of Government, Military Commanders, Captains of Industry, Technology Leaders,
Academics, Journalists, and Scholars on Strategic Affairs. This dialogue is organised by the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) & Observer Research Foundation (ORF) since 2016. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – inaugurated 9th edition of “Raisina Dialogue” in New Delhi
• Kyriakos Mitsotakis (PM of Greece) – joined inaugural session as the Chief Guest
• Theme of this edition – “Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create”
• This dialogue is organised by = MEA + ORF (since 2016)
• Minister of External Affairs: S. Jaishankar | Constituency – Gujarat
• MoS in Ministry of External Affairs: Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, V. Muraleedharan & Meenakashi Lekhi
• HQs of ORF – New Delhi | Chairman – Sunjoy Joshi | President – Samir Saran | Founded – 1990

311. PM Narendra Modi addressed the International Energy Agency’s Ministerial Meeting in Paris,
France. The meeting was co-chaired by Ireland and France. The Vice Chairs are the Ministers of Australia,
Canada, the Netherlands and Poland. The meeting marked the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the
IEA, with a number of special events, including a series of High-Level Dialogues and an Energy Innovation
Forum. The IEA was founded in 1974 to ensure the security of oil supplies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – addressed IEA’s Ministerial Meeting in Paris, France | It was co-chaired by = Ireland + France
• The meeting marked the 50th Anniversary of the founding of IEA
• HQs of IEA – Paris, France | Executive Director – Dr. Fatih Birol | Member countries – 30 | Founded – 1974

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Ranks, Reports & Surveys
312. China overtook Japan as the world’s biggest vehicle exporter in 2023. The Chinese auto sector has boomed in recent
years largely because of massive investments in electric cars. China shipped 4.91 million vehicles in 2023, as per the data
provided by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. While, China’s customs bureau put the number even higher at
5.22 million. The Japanese automaker, Toyota, achieved global sales record (11.2 million vehicles) & became world’s top-
selling automaker for 4th consecutive year. Toyota aims to sell 1.5 million EVs annually by 2026 and 3.5 million by 2030.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• China – overtook Japan as the world’s biggest vehicle exporter in 2023
• Toyota (Japan) – became world’s top-selling automaker for 4th consecutive year (11.2 million vehicles sales)
• Toyota – aims to sell 1.5 million EVs annually by 2026 and 3.5 million by 2030
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang

313. Ministry of Education has released “All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE)
2021-2022”. The Ministry has been conducting AISHE since 2011, covering all Higher
Educational Institutions (HEIs) in India registered with AISHE collecting detailed
information on different parameters such as student enrollment, teachers,
infrastructural information, etc. The total enrolment in higher education has increased
to nearly 4.33 crore in 2021-22 from 4.14 crore in 2020-21, an increase of 26.5%. The Female enrolment has increased to
2.07 crore in 2021-22 from 2.01 crore in 2020-21, an increase of 32%. Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education for
the age group 18-23 years has increased to 28.4 in 2021-22 from 23.7 in 2014-15. Female GER has increased to 28.5 in
2021-22 from 22.9 in 2014-15. Gender Parity Index (GPI), the ratio of female GER to male GER is 1.01 in 2021-22. As per
response in AISHE 2021-22, about 78.9% of the total students are enrolled in undergraduate level courses and 12.1% are
enrolled in postgraduate level courses. The total number of Universities / University level institutions registered is 1,168,
Colleges 45,473 and Standalone Institutions 12,002. The total number of faculty/teachers in 2021-22 are 15.98 lakh, of
which about 56.6% are male and 43.4% are female. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Education – released “All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-2022”
• MoE has been conducting AISHE since 2011
• Total enrolment in higher education increased to nearly 4.33 Cr in 2021-22 (26.5% increase)
• Female enrolment has increased to 2.07 Cr in 2021-22 (32% increase)
• GER in higher education for age group 18-23 years has increased to 28.4 in 2021-22
• GPI (ratio of female GER to male GER) is 1.01 in 2021-22
• About 78.9% of total students are enrolled in undergraduate courses & 12.1% are enrolled in postgraduate courses
• Total number of Universities / University level institutions – 1,168
• Total Colleges – 45,473 | Standalone Institutions – 12,002
• Total number of faculty/teachers in 2021-22 are 15.98 lakh (Male - 56.6% & Female - 43.4%)
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Madhya Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Education: Subhas Sarkar

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314. Tata Motors has become the most valuable auto company on Dalal Street as its market
capitalisation (m-cap) surpassed the m-cap of India’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki (MSIL), after a
gap of 7 years. Bajaj Auto is India’s third most valuable auto company. Its shares recently surged 5%
intraday to an all-time high of Rs 886 ahead of its Q3FY24 results. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata Motors – became most valuable auto company in terms of m-cap, surpassing Maruti Suzuki
• India’s third most valuable auto company – Bajaj Auto
• HQs of Tata Motors – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Non-Executive Director & Chairman – Natarajan Chandrasekaran

315. India’s electricity demand will outpace China’s and will have the
world’s fastest growth rate by 2026, the latest report titled “Electricity
2024” released by the International Energy Agency (IEA). Coal-fired
generation is expected to meet 68% of that demand by 2026.
However, India’s electricity demand will rise by an annual average of
6.5% in the 3 years between 2024 and 2026. Prime Minister Narendra
Modi had announced the target to achieve net zero by 2070 in 2021.
Renewable generation remained relatively stable, with a 21% share of
electricity generation in 2023. Close to 21 GW of Renewable Energy (RE) capacity was added during 2023. Electricity
demand in India rose by 7% in 2023, a drop from 8.6% in 2022. About 85% of new electricity capacity is projected to come
from emerging economies, particularly in south Asia, with China and India in the lead. The IEA forecasts that global nuclear
power generation will be almost 10% higher in 2026, compared to 2023. In 2022, India announced plans to triple its
nuclear capacity by 2032, aiming to add 13 GW, with 6 GW currently under construction. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Report “Electricity 2024” – released by IEA
• India’s electricity demand will outpace China’s & will have world’s fastest growth rate by 2026
• Coal-fired generation is expected to meet 68% of that demand by 2026
• India’s electricity demand will rise by an annual average of 6.5% between 2024 & 2026
• Renewable generation remained relatively stable with a 21% share of electricity generation in 2023
• Electricity demand in India rose by 7% in 2023 (8.6% in 2022)
• Global nuclear power generation will be almost 10% higher in 2026, compared to 2023
• India announced plans to triple its nuclear capacity by 2032 (to add 13 GW, current – 6 GW)
• HQs of IEA – Paris, France | Executive Director – Dr. Fatih Birol | Member countries – 30

316. Mukesh Ambani has been ranked as the top Indian and second globally in the
“Brand Guardianship Index 2024” compiled by Brand Finance. Ambani, the Chairman
and MD of Reliance Industries Ltd, surpassed prominent figures like Microsoft’s Satya
Nadella and Google’s Sundar Pichai to secure the 2nd spot globally, with Tencent’s
Huateng Ma claiming the No. 1 position. Mukesh Ambani emerged as the top-ranked
CEO in the ‘Diversified’ conglomerates category. Brand Finance awarded Ambani a BGI
score of 80.3, just slightly below Huateng Ma’s score of 81.6. The Brand Guardianship Index recognises CEOs who
effectively build business value while considering the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, investors, and
society at large. N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, climbed to 5th place in the 2023 ranking. Anish Shah of
Mahindra & Mahindra secured the 6th position, followed by Salil Parekh of Infosys at number 16. {Read more}

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317. According to the World Bank’s “Logistics Performance Index Report 2023: Connecting to Compete” (7th edition), India
ranks 38 out of 139 countries. India’s rank has improved by six places from 44 in 2018. The ranking was topped by
Singapore, followed by Finland & Denmark at second & third position. An Inter-Ministerial dedicated team comprising of
Stakeholder Ministries/Departments has been formed to focus on targeted action plans with interventions needed to
improve logistics performance across all 6 LPI parameters - Customs, Infrastructure, Ease of arranging shipments, Quality
of logistics services, Tracking and Tracing, and Timeliness. Moreover, PM Narendra Modi launched the PM Gati Shakti
National Master Plan for multimodal connectivity in October 2021 and National Logistics Policy in September 2022, for
improving logistics eﬀiciency and reducing logistics costs. Digital reforms such as Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP)
for ease of doing business and Logistics Data Bank are also operational. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Logistics Performance Index Report 2023: Connecting to Compete” – released by World Bank
• India’s rank – 38 | Top – Singapore | 2nd – Finland | 3rd – Denmark
• PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan & National Logistics Policy were launched in Oct 2021 & Sep 2022
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189

318. The Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) has released the ‘Rankings of Business Schools in 2024’ or ‘Top
MBA Colleges in India - 2024’. The institutions are evaluated on 7 parameters and ranked by Maction Consulting under the
Federation for World Academics (FWA). More than 300 management institutions are evaluated, out of which, 50
government and 160 private management institutions are ranked. Moreover, the IIRF Rankings 2024 include 6 categories.
This year, IIM Ahmedabad topped among Government Business Schools, followed by Faculty of Management Studies
(FMS) at University of Delhi, and IIM Calcutta. Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI) in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, topped
among Private Business Schools, followed by Gurugram-based Management Development Institute (MDI) and Mumbai-
based S P Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR). Moreover, IIM Ahmedabad has emerged as the overall top-
ranked college (among Government & Private in India), with an overall index score of 937.24. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Rankings of Business Schools in 2024’ or ‘Top MBA Colleges in India - 2024’ – released by IIRF
- Top Government Business Schools – IIM Ahmedabad | Followed by FMS (DU) & IIM Calcutta
- Top Private Business Schools – XLRI (Jamshedpur) | Followed by MDI (Gurugram) & SPJIMR (Mumbai)
- Overall top ranked college – IIM Ahmedabad (overall index score - 937.24)

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319. India’s cumulative Coal production has surged to 803.79 Million Tonne (MT) for FY
2023-24 as on February 6, 2024, showcasing a notable growth of 12.07%, from the 717.23
MT recorded during FY 2022-23. Earlier, the same production figure of 800 MT mark was
achieved on March 8, 2023, in last FY 2022-23 (30 days ahead). Moreover, cumulative Coal
dispatch has surged to 815.11 MT, as of the same date, with a growth rate of 10.75% from
the 736.00 MT reported during FY 2022-23. Besides, Coal Sector showcased highest growth
of 10.6 % (provisional) among the 8 core industries during December 2023 as per the ‘Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)’
(Base Year 2011-12) released by Ministry of Commerce & Industries. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India’s cumulative Coal production – surged to 803.79 MT for FY 2023-24 as on February 6, 2024 (12.07% growth)
• In last FY 2022-23, 800 MT mark was achieved on March 8, 2023
• ‘Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)’ – released by Ministry of Commerce & Industries (Base Year 2011-12)
• Coal Sector showcased highest growth of 10.6 % (provisional) among the 8 core industries during December 2023
• Minister of Heavy Industries: Mahendra Nath Pandey | Constituency – Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh
• MoS in Ministry of Heavy Industries: Krishan Pal

320. Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) has

released the “Annual National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA)
Way Forward Report 2023”. The Report highlights the significant progress made by
the States and UTs during the year under mandatory e-Services and total e-
Services under NeSDA Framework. For the promotion of e-Services, the
Department organized 3 Regional Conferences at Bhopal, Mumbai and Guwahati.
As per the latest figures, the States and UTs are providing a total of 16,487 e-
Services in December, 2023. Jammu and Kashmir tops the list of States/ UTs with
maximum numbers 1,117 e-Services. Besides UT of Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Assam and Odisha are providing 100% e-
Services through their respective unified portals. Currently, a saturation level of 76% of possible mandatory e-Services has
been achieved by States and UTs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DARPG – released “Annual National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) Way Forward Report 2023”
• The Department organized 3 Regional Conferences at – Bhopal, Mumbai and Guwahati for promotion of e-Services
• States & UTs are providing a total of 16,487 e-Services in December, 2023
• J & K – tops the list of States/ UTs with maximum numbers 1,117 e-Services
• Kerala, Assam & Odisha – are also providing 100% e-Services through their respective unified portals
• Current saturation level achieved by States and UTs of possible mandatory e-Services – 76%
• DARPG – works under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

321. India is expected to be the largest driver of global oil demand growth between 2023 and 2030, narrowly taking the
lead from top importer China, according to the latest report ‘Indian Oil Market Outlook to 2030’ released by International
Energy Agency (IEA) at the 2nd edition of India Energy Week 2024 in Goa. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and
consumer, is on track to post an oil demand increase of almost 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) between 2023 and 2030.
The IEA forecast India’s demand would reach 6.6 million bpd in 2030, up from 5.5 million bpd in 2023. {Read more}

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322. India ranks as the 3rd largest digitalised country among the G20 nations after US
and China, when compared by the aggregate level of digitalisation, according to the
“State of India’s Digital Economy (SIDE) 2024” report by the Indian Council for Research
on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and Prosus, a global consumer internet
group. Using a new approach called the ‘CHIPS (Connect-Harness-Innovate-Protect-
Sustain)’ framework, the report benchmarked the scale and depth of India’s digital
transformation with respect to G20 countries as well as for Indian States and UTs. Also,
India has the world’s 2nd largest internet network with more than 700 million users, after China which leads with an
estimated 1.05 billion users. More than 83 billion UPI transactions took place in India in FY2022-23, the highest volume of
real-time digital payments for a country, followed by China and Brazil. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “State of India’s Digital Economy (SIDE) 2024” – released by ICRIER & Prosus
• It benchmarked scale & depth of India’s digital transformation with respect to G20 countries using CHIPS approach
• India – ranked 3rd largest digitalised country among the G20 nations | 1st – US | 2nd – China
• India – has world’s 2nd largest internet network with more than 700 million users | 1st – China (1.05 billion)
• India – registered more than 83 billion UPI transactions in FY2022-23 (highest) | 2nd – China | 3rd – Brazil

323. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of vehicle sales in October-December 2023, followed by Maharashtra,
Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, according to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). Uttar Pradesh clocked a total
sales of 8,22,472 units across passenger and commercial vehicles; and two and three-wheeler categories, followed by
Maharashtra with 6,88,192 units and Gujarat with 4,21,026. Also, Uttar Pradesh witnessed the highest number of three-
wheelers sold in this quarter. Similarly, in the two-wheeler category, Uttar Pradesh topped the list. However, in passenger
vehicle sales, Maharashtra clocked the highest sales. In the commercial vehicles category also, Maharashtra topped the
list. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Uttar Pradesh – highest number of vehicle sales (8,22,472 units) in October-December 2023, as per SIAM
• Uttar Pradesh – highest number of three-wheelers & two-wheelers sold in October-December 2023
• Maharashtra – highest number of passenger vehicle & commercial vehicles sales
• 2nd – Maharashtra (6,88,192 units) | 3rd – Gujarat (4,21,026 units) | 4th – Tamil Nadu
• UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel

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324. The first-ever “State of the World’s Migratory Species” report was
launched by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of
Wild Animals (CMS), a UN biodiversity treaty, at the 14th Conference of the
Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild
Animals (CMS COP14), a major UN wildlife conservation conference held in
Samarkand, Uzbekistan, under the theme of “Nature Knows No Borders”.
The report was prepared by conservation scientists at the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). As per the report, 44% of
the migratory species listed under CMS are experiencing a decline in population. 22% of CMS-listed species are threatened
with extinction. 97% of CMS-listed fish are threatened with extinction. Globally, 399 migratory species that are threatened
or near threatened with extinction are not currently listed under CMS. The main focus of the report is the 1,189 animal
species that have been recognized by CMS Parties as needing international protection and are listed under CMS, also
known as the ‘Bonn Convention’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CMS – released 1st ever “State of the World’s Migratory Species” report at CMS COP14
• CMS COP14 was held in – Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Theme – “Nature Knows No Borders”
• The report was prepared by – conservation scientists at UNEP | CMS – is also known as the ‘Bonn Convention’
• The main focus of report – 1,189 animal species that have been recognized by CMS Parties
• Key highlights of the report:
- 44% of migratory species listed under CMS are experiencing a decline in population
- 22% of CMS-listed species are threatened with extinction
- 97% of CMS-listed fish are threatened with extinction
- Globally, 399 migratory species that are threatened or near threatened with extinction are not listed under CMS
• HQs of UNEP – Nairobi, Kenya | Executive Director – Inger Andersen | Founded in – 1972

325. Indian School of Business (ISB) has been ranked as the Top Business
School in India and the 31st globally, in the “Global MBA Ranking 2024”
released by Financial Times (FT). This is a substantial improvement, from its
39th global ranking of last year. At the Asia level, the ranking of the ISB has
gone up to number 5. The ranking highlights ISB’s strengths across various
criteria such as research, alumni network and career services. Six Indian B-
schools were featured in the Financial Times (FT) Global MBA Rankings 2024
which features 100 of the world’s top full-time MBA programmes. The other Indian B-schools that made it up to the global
list are IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow and XLRI- Xavier School of Management. University of
Pennsylvania: Wharton (US) topped the rankings globally, followed by Insead (France) & Columbia Business School (US).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global MBA Ranking 2024” – released by FT | Top Business School in India – ISB
• Global rank – 31st | Rank in Asia – 5th | ISB’s Global rank in 2023 – 39th
• Globally Top – University of Pennsylvania (US) | 2nd – Insead (France) | 3rd – Columbia Business School (US)
• Six Indian B-schools were featured in FT Global MBA Rankings 2024
• Other 5 – IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow & XLRI

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326. India ranked 3rd in the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) annual list of top 10 countries and regions in the world for
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification in 2023. 248 projects, across both buildings and
spaces, were certified for LEED in India covering 7.23 million Gross Square Metres (GSM). China topped with over 24
million GSM certified, followed by Canada with 7.9 million GSM. While the US is not included in the list, it remains the
world’s largest market for LEED with more than 51 million GSM certified during the year. LEED is a green building rating
system and the certification is a globally recognised symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership. In India, LEED is
administered by the Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• USGBC – released annual list of top 10 countries & regions in the world for LEED certification in 2023
• India’s rank – 3rd (7.23 million GSM) | Top – China (over 24 million GSM certified) | 2nd – Canada (7.9 million GSM)
• US – not included in the list but it is world’s largest market for LEED with more than 51 million GSM
• LEED is administered in India by – Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI)
• LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

327. With a market cap of Rs 15.6 trillion, Reliance Industries (RIL) topped the
chart of the most valuable Indian companies in 2023, for the third year in a row,
according to a report by Burgundy Private (Axis Bank’s private banking business)
and Hurun India. The RIL is followed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) with a
market cap of Rs 12.4 trillion, while HDFC Bank was 3rd with a market cap of Rs 11.3
trillion. The combined value of the top 10 companies remained Rs 73.3 trillion. The
list, a compilation of the 500 most valuable private companies in India, saw ICICI
Bank at 4th position, followed by Infosys at 5th position. The list is based on data
from October 2022 to October 2023. Suzlon Energy, which registered a y-o-y value
growth of 436%, dominates the list of fastest growing companies in the list,
followed by Jindal Stainless and JSW Infrastructure. Serum Institute of India was
adjudged as the most valuable unlisted company, followed by NSE and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Burgundy Private + Hurun India = released a list of most valuable Indian companies in 2023
• Burgundy Private – Axis Bank’s private banking business
• Top – RIL (market cap - Rs 15.6 trillion) | 2nd – TCS (Rs 12.4 trillion) | 3rd – HDFC Bank (Rs 11.3 trillion)
• 4th – ICICI Bank | 5th – Infosys | Combined value of the top 10 companies – Rs 73.3 trillion
• Fastest growing company – Suzlon Energy (436% growth) | 2nd – Jindal Stainless | 3rd – sJSW Infrastructure
• Most valuable unlisted company – Serum Institute of India | 2nd – NSE | 3rd – Megha Engineering & Infrastructure

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328. India has fallen one position from last year in the “Henley Passport
Index for 2024” released on February 20, 2024. The Indian passport ranks
85th on the list. The Henley Passport Index ranks countries on the basis of the
strength of their passports. France has secured the top position as its
passport grants visa-free access to 194 countries. Besides France, Germany,
Italy, Japan, Singapore & Spain are also among the top-ranked countries with
visa-free access to 194 countries. In 2024, Indian passport holders can travel
visa-free to 62 countries as compared to 60 countries in 2023. When it
comes to India’s neighbours, Pakistan has got the 106th place, while
Bangladesh has slipped to 102nd position. Interestingly, Maldives has got a much better rank than India, securing the 58 th
place with visa-free travel to 96 countries. The Henley Passport Index comes up with the rankings from analysis of data
spanning the past 19 years, based on the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) specialized data, covering 199
different passports and 227 travel destinations worldwide. The Index is updated monthly. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Key Highlights of “Henley Passport Index 2024” released in Feb’24 based on the data from IATA:
• Rank of Indian passport – 85th (visa-free access to 62 countries)
• Top – France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore & Spain (194 countries)
• Pakistan – 106th | Bangladesh – 102nd | Maldives – 58th
• The Index is updated monthly
• HQs of IATA – Montreal, Canada | DG – Willie Walsh

329. Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd (IFFCO) has again been ranked as top
cooperative among top 300 cooperatives in the world, sustaining its position from the last
year, according to the 12th “Annual World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) 2023” report
published by International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). The ranking is based on the ratio of
turnover over Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. It signifies that IFFCO is contributing
significantly to the GDP and economic growth of the nation. IFFCO has also improved its
ranking to 72nd in overall turnover ranking from 97th position in last financial year. It
introduced nanotechnology-based solutions, including IFFCO Nano Liquid Urea, as alternative fertilisers for agriculture.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• 12th “Annual World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) 2023” – published by International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)
• IFFCO – again ranked as top cooperative among top 300 cooperatives in the world
• Ranking is based on – ratio of turnover over GDP per capita
• IFFCO has improved its ranking to 72nd in overall turnover (from 97th in last financial year)
• HQs of IFFCO – New Delhi | Chairman – Dileep Sanghani

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330. India ranks 42nd in the “International IP Index for 2024” (12th edition). India’s
overall score also remained unchanged at 38.64%, as per the index released by the
US Chamber of Commerce’s Global Innovation Policy Center. The Index evaluates the
IP frameworks of the world’s top 55 economies, revealing significant improvements
in 20 economies. While the United States is once again topped the index with 95.48%
score, followed by the UK (94.12%), France (93.12%), Germany (92.46%), and Sweden
(92.12%). The IP Index serves as a compass to guide world leaders on proven
methods to champion innovation and creativity at home. With this data, they can see
what’s working, what’s not, and what changes are needed to ensure a brighter future. When it comes to India’s IP
strength, the report highlights the ‘Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023’, which includes new language and criminal
sanctions on film piracy. In terms of weakness, the report highlights the 2021 dissolution of the Intellectual Property
Appellate Board. It also pointed to the limited framework for the protection of biopharmaceutical IP rights. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “International IP Index for 2024” (12th edition) – released by Global Innovation Policy Center (USCC)
• India – ranks 42nd with an overall score at 38.64%
• 1st – US (95.48%) | 2nd – UK (94.12%) | 3rd – France (93.12%) | 4th – Germany (92.46%) | 5th – Sweden (92.12%)

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Ordinance, Bills & Acts
331. On February 6, Lok Sabha passed the “Constitution (Jammu & Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill,
2024”. The historic Bill aims at empowering Pahari Ethnic Group, Padari Tribes, Koli, and Gadda Brahmin by providing
‘Scheduled Tribe’ status. This has been long pending demand of these communities. The inclusion of these communities in
the list of Scheduled Tribes in Jammu and Kashmir will have absolutely no impact on current level of reservations available
to the existing Scheduled Tribe communities such as Gujjars and Bakarwals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Constitution (Jammu & Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024’ – passed in Lok Sabha
• Aim – To provde ‘Scheduled Tribe’ status to Pahari Ethnic Group, Padari Tribes, Koli, & Gadda Brahmin
• J & K: Capital – Srinagar | Lt. Governor – Manoj Sinha

332. The Rajya Sabha passed the “Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024” which seeks to
decriminalise minor offences related to water pollution, enable the Centre to prescribe service conditions of chairpersons
of State Pollution Control Boards, and exempt certain categories of industrial plants from statutory restrictions. The Bill
seeks to amend the ‘Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974’. The Act establishes the central and state
pollution control boards to prevent and control water pollution. It will initially apply to Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and
the Union Territories. The Bill imposes a penalty between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15 lakh for violation of provisions related to the
discharge of polluting matter in water bodies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rajya Sabha – passed “Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024”
• Bill seeks to amend – ‘Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974’
• It will initially apply to – Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, & UTs
• It imposes penalty between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15 lakh for violation of provisions related to discharge of polluting
matter in water bodies

333. President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the “Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means), Bill,
2024”, which aims to prevent cheating in government recruitment exams. The Bill was passed by the two Houses of
Parliament in the Budget session which concluded on February 10. It seeks to prevent the use of ‘unfair means’ in public
examinations and bring greater transparency, fairness and credibility. The public examinations in the Act include UPSC,
SSC, IBPS, RRB (Railway Recruitment Board), NTA (National Testing Agency), etc. The Bill, which has become an Act now
with the President’s nod, defines several offences in relation to public examinations. Offenders under the Bill will be
punished with imprisonment between 3 to 10 years, and fines ranging from Rs 10 lakh Rs 1 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Droupadi Murmu – gave her assent to “Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means), Bill, 2024”
• The Bill has become an Act now with the President’s nod
• Aim – to prevent use of ‘unfair means’ in public examinations and bring greater transparency, fairness & credibility
• The public examinations include – UPSC, SSC, IBPS, RRB, NTA etc
• Offenders will be punished with imprisonment between 3 to 10 years, & fines ranging from Rs 10 lakh Rs 1 Cr

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MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships
334. IIM Bangalore’s NSRCEL (Nadathur S Raghavan Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning) and SIDBI have collaborated to
establish a Pre-seed Fund, specifically for start-ups in the deep tech and emerging businesses area. The MoU signed
between the two organisations laid the foundation for a multi-year relationship to nurture start-ups and lead them
towards scaling up their business activities. Over the past 20 years, NSRCEL has been supporting early-stage ventures in
India, incubating more than 1,600 start-ups and mentoring many more. To support the ‘India of Tomorrow’ and early-
stage start-ups in impact areas, SIDBI has partnered with the leading incubators of the country, for seed funding of such
start-ups. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSRCEL (IIM Bangalore) + SIDBI = collaborated to establish a ‘Pre-seed Fund’ for start-ups in the deep tech and
emerging businesses area
• HQs of SIDBI – Lucknow, UP | MD & Chairman – Sivasubramanian Ramann | Established in – 1990

335. Karnataka government and Taiwan-based Wistron Corporation (ICT Service Management Solutions) signed an MoU to
set up a laptop manufacturing plant near Bengaluru. The electronics manufacturing company will invest Rs 1,500 crore to
set up the plant and the unit is likely to create around 3,000 employment opportunities. Wistron plant is going to be the
first of its kind unit to manufacture laptops in the state. The unit will be aligned to ‘Industry 4.0’ standards with a fully
automated facility and will make laptops for all brands. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka + Wistron Corporation = an MoU to set up a laptop manufacturing plant near Bengaluru
• The electronics manufacturing company will invest Rs 1,500 crore to set up the plant
• Wistron plant – will be first of its kind unit to manufacture laptops in the state
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot

336. Google signed an MoU with the Government of Maharashtra to provide artificial intelligence (AI)-led solutions across
key sectors in the state. As a part of the collaboration, Google will leverage its AI capabilities to provide solutions in sectors
like agriculture, healthcare, sustainability, education, and startups. The company also announced to launch a state-of-the-
art AI Centre of Excellence at the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Nagpur. In terms of skilling, the
company commits to train 500 government IT professionals with conversational AI skills through Google Cloud. In the
healthcare domain, the company will provide health-related AI imaging models such as TB-Chest X-Ray and Diabetic
Retinopathy to increase access to care through AI-enabled screening. Similarly, it will provide the State with its Agricultural
Landscape Understanding (ALU) API that will provide in-depth insights about farmland. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google + MH = an MoU to provide AI-led solutions across key sectors in the state
• Google – will leverage its AI capabilities to provide solutions in various sectors
• Google – announced to launch a state-of-the-art AI Centre of Excellence at IIIT, Nagpur
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998
• Maharashtra: CM – Eknath Shinde | Governor – Ramesh Bais

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337. C-DOT, the premier Telecom R&D centre of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and IIT Kharagpur signed
an agreement for developing prototypes for 10-Gigabit-capable symmetric Passive Optical Network (XGS-PON) Optical
Line Terminal (OLT) and Optical Network Unit (ONU). The agreement is signed under the Telecom Technology
Development Fund (TTDF) scheme of Department of Telecommunications. It is envisioned that the project will yield new
design, development, and commercialization of the state-of-the-art 10 Gbps upstream and downstream access network
technology solution. Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay is the CEO of C-DOT. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• C-DOT + IIT Kharagpur = an agreement for developing prototypes for XGS-PON OLT & ONU
• XGS-PON – 10-Gigabit-capable symmetric Passive Optical Network
• The agreement is signed under TTDF scheme of Dept of Telecommunications
• HQs of C-DoT – New Delhi | CEO – Rajkumar Upadhyay | C-DoT works under – DoT (Ministry of Communications)
• Director of IIT Kharagpur – Prof. Virendra Kumar Tewari

338. Cochin International Airport, the world’s first airport fully solar-powered, has signed an agreement with Bharat
Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for setting up a Green Hydrogen Plant on the airport premises, making Cochin
International Airport Limited (CIAL) the 1st airport operator in the world to have a hydrogen power generation facility on
its premises. The effort also won the airport the ‘Champions of the Earth Award’ by the United Nations. The MoU outlines
plans for completion of the project in 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cochin International Airport + BPCL = an agreement for setting up a Green Hydrogen Plant on the airport premises
• With this, Cochin Int. Airport becomes world’s 1st airport operator to have a Hydrogen Power Generation Facility

339. JSW Steel announced to set up a Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Manufacturing Plant through a 50:50 joint venture
with JFE Steel Corporation at an estimated investment of $5,500 Crore in Bellary district, Karnataka. Japan-based JFE
Corporation also holds a 15 % share in JSW Steel. The facility is targeting to commence production in the fiscal year 2027.
The JV company aspires to cater to the surging domestic demand for grain oriented electrical steel which plays a pivotal
role in the production of energy-efficient transformers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• JSW Steel + JFE Steel Corp. (Japan) = to set up a Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Manufacturing Plant
• It will be set up through a 50:50 JV in – Bellary, Karnataka | Estimated investment - $5,500 Cr
• Production will be commenced in FY 2027 | JFE Corp – holds a 15 % share in JSW Steel
• HQs of JSW Steel – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Jayant Acharya

340. India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a key bilateral investment
agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to the Gulf nation.
The UAE is the 7th largest source of historical Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for India,
with a total of $16.67 billion. Also, the UAE has become India’s 2nd largest export
destination, and the 3rd largest trading partner with total trade touching $85 billion.
Moreover, India’s United Payment Interface (UPI) will be interlinked with the UAE’s
‘Aani’, a platform operated by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the UAE’s central
bank. Similarly, an agreement on inter-linking domestic debit/credit cards of both nations was signed which will see RuPay
(India) linked with JAYWAN (UAE). {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• India + UAE = signed a bilateral investment agreement
• UAE – 7th largest source of historical FDI for India, with a total of $16.67 billion
• UAE – is India’s 2nd largest export destination, & 3rd largest trading partner with total trade touching $85 billion
• India’s UPI will be interlinked with the UAE’s ‘Aani’, operated by Al Etihad Payments
• An agreement on inter-linking domestic debit/credit cards was also signed to link RuPay with JAYWAN (UAE)
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

341. During the 2nd edition of the ‘India Energy Week (IEW) 2024’ in
Goa, India signed a biggest-ever $78 billion deal to extend LNG imports
from Qatar by another 20 years from 2029 to 2048 at rates lower than
current prices. Petronet LNG Ltd, India’s biggest liquefied natural gas
(LNG) importer, has signed a pact with QatarEnergy to extend the deal
to buy 7.5 million tonne a year of gas for producing electricity, making
fertilizers and converting it into CNG. India, the world’s third biggest energy consumer, sees natural gas as a transition fuel
for migrating to net zero carbon emissions by 2070. As part of this, the government is targeting to raise the share of
natural gas in the country’s energy mix to 15% by 2030 from 6.3% now. While 7.5 MTPA of LNG is bought by Petronet, IOC,
BPCL and GAIL buy a combined 1 MTPA of LNG. Akshay Kumar Singh is the CEO of Petronet. Moreover, during the IEW
2024, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) also introduced the first indigenous alkaline electrolyser in India. This
prototype was developed in collaboration with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd ‘India Energy Week (IEW) 2024’ – was observed in Goa
• India – signed a biggest-ever $78 billion deal to extend LNG imports from Qatar by 20 years from 2029 to 2048
• Petronet LNG Ltd + QatarEnergy = pact to extend the deal to buy 7.5 million tonne a year of gas
• Petronet LNG Ltd – India’s biggest LNG importer | India – world’s third biggest energy consumer
• India – sees natural gas as a transition fuel for migrating to net zero carbon emissions by 2070
• GoI is targeting to raise the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix to – 15% by 2030 from 6.3% now
• BPCL – introduced 1st indigenous alkaline electrolyser in India (developed in collaboration with BARC)
• HQs of BPCL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman & MD – G. Krishnakumar | Founded in – 1952
• HQs of Petronet LNG – New Delhi | CEO – Akshay Kumar Singh

342. The Government of Goa and MakeMyTrip have signed an MoU, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). This collaborative
effort aims to propel tourism in Goa into a vibrant, year-round destination, moving beyond its iconic sun, sand, and
beaches. Goa is the first state in India to launch ‘Regenerative Tourism’ initiative. The MoU is aimed at showcasing Goa’s
lesser-known inland treasures, its cultural tapestry and culinary traditions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Goa + MakeMyTrip = an MoU (PPP) to propel tourism in Goa
• Aim – showcasing Goa’s lesser-known inland treasures, cultural tapestry & culinary traditions
• Goa – first state in India to launch ‘Regenerative Tourism’ initiative
• Goa: Capital – Panaji | CM – Pramod Sawant | Governor – P. S. Sreedharan Pillai
• HQs of MakeMyTrip – Gurugram | Co-founder & group CEO – Rajesh Magow

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343. Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) and the Indian Institute of
Management (IIM) Shillong signed an MoU to set up India’s first ‘Gati Shakti Research
Chair’ on the campus. The chair will spearhead high-quality academic research on
multimodal logistics with a north-east focus; building knowledge on multimodal
logistics development strategies and practice in the north-eastern region, facilitate
knowledge and innovation for logistical capacity building in the region. The chair aims
to foster collaboration with global experts in creating and developing knowledge &
expertise while strengthening the links between multimodal logistics research & capacity-building activities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoPSW + IIM Shillong = an MoU to set up India’s first ‘Gati Shakti Research Chair’ on campus
• Aim – to foster collaboration with global experts in creating and developing knowledge & expertise
• Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Sarbananda Sonowal | Constituency – Majuli, Assam
• MoS in Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Shripad Yesso Naik & Shantanu Thakur

344. Reliance Consumer Products-owned soft drink brand, Campa, has secured a multi-
year deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to become one of the official
central sponsors for all cricket series to be played in India, starting this year. This
agreement effectively sidelines rivals Coca-Cola and PepsiCo for BCCI matches held in
India. This marks Campa’s first major cricket sponsorship since its relaunch by Reliance
over a year ago. Reliance Retail acquired Campa from Pure Drinks group for an estimated sum of Rs 22 crore in mid-2022.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Campa (owned by Reliance) – became an official central sponsor of BCCI for all cricket series to be played in India
• Reliance Retail – acquired Campa from Pure Drinks group for Rs 22 Cr in mid-2022
• HQs of BCCI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | President – Roger Binny | Secretary – Jay Shah | Founded in – 1928
• HQs of Reliance Group – Mumbai | CMD & CEO – Anil Ambani | Group President – Parul Sharma

345. National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC), under the

Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of
Commerce & Industry, and the Foundation for Innovation and Technology
Transfer at IIT Delhi (FITT-IITD) signed an MoU in New Delhi. The aim of the
MoU is to evaluate optimality of locations for development of greenfield
industrial smart cities in India leveraging the principles and framework of PM
GatiShakti - National Master Plan portal. This initiative aligns with India’s vision
to emerge as a global manufacturing hub, emphasizing the importance of data-driven, decision-making in sustainable
futuristic urban planning and development. Rajat Kumar Saini is the CEO & MD of NICDC. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NICDC (under DPIIT, MoC&I) + FITT (IIT Delhi) = an MoU to evaluate optimality of locations for development of
greenfield industrial smart cities in India
• HQs of NICDC – New Delhi | CEO & MD – Rajat Kumar Saini
• Director of IIT Delhi – V. Ramgopal Rao

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346. Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with
SACE, Italy’s Export Credit Agency, to secure an innovative ECA-backed financing facility.
This collaboration marks PFC as the first government-owned entity in India to engage with
SACE under its “Push Strategy” initiative. The partnership will see PFC benefiting from an
80% guarantee by SACE on financing up to €200 million, with HSBC serving as the coordinating bank, lead arranger, and
facility agent. The financing structure is designed to offer project owners in India the chance to access cutting-edge Italian
technology and foster collaborations with Italian firms through business-matching activities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PFC + SACE (Italy) = partnership to secure an innovative ECA-backed financing facility
• PFC – became first Govt-owned entity in India to engage with SACE under its “Push Strategy” initiative
• PFC will benefitted from 80% guarantee by SACE on financing up to €200 million
• HQs of PFC Ltd – New Delhi | CMD – Parminder Chopra
• Italy – Rome – Euro | President – Sergio Mattarella | PM – Giorgia Meloni

347. The Bihar Startup Fund Trust (BSFT) and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) signed an MoU to
administer Rs 50-crore ‘Bihar Startup Scale-up Financing Fund (BSSFF)’ in a bid to boost the startup ecosystem in the state.
The BSFT is the nodal agency constituted by the Industries Department for implementation of the Bihar Startup Policy.
Under the policy, the state government has set up the BSFT with an initial corpus of Rs 500 crore. Out of this, BSSFF has
been established with an initial corpus of Rs 50 crore for scale-up funding support to startups. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bihar + SIDBI = MoU to administer Rs 50 Cr ‘Bihar Startup Scale-up Financing Fund’ to boost startup ecosystem in
state
• BSFT – nodal agency constituted by Industries Department for implementation of ‘Bihar Startup Policy’
• BSFT was set up with an initial corpus of – Rs 500 Cr | Outlay of BSSFF – Rs 50 Cr
• HQs of SIDBI – Lucknow, UP | MD & Chairman – Sivasubramanian Ramann | Established in – 1990
• Bihar: Capital – Patna | CM – Nitish Kumar | Governor – Rajendra Vishwanath Arleka

348. On February 28, Coal India Limited (CIL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL),
two of India’s leading Maharatna CPSEs, have entered into a joint venture agreement (JVA)
to establish an ‘Ammonium Nitrate Plant’ in Odisha. The plant, leveraging surface coal
gasification (SCG) technology, will be situated in the Lakhanpur area of Mahanadi
Coalfields Limited. The facility is designed to produce 2,000 tons of ammonium nitrate
daily, amounting to an annual output of 6.60 lakh tons, utilizing 1.3 million tonnes of coal
supplied by CIL. BHEL will contribute its indigenously developed pressurized fluidized bed
gasification (PFBG) technology for the project. This partnership is a big leap towards ‘National Coal Gasification Mission’
whose goal is to achieve 100 million tons of coal gasification by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CIL + BHEL = a JVA to establish an ‘Ammonium Nitrate Plant’ in Lakhanpur area of Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd, Odisha
• It will produce 2,000 tons of ammonium nitrate daily, utilizing 1.3 MT of coal supplied by CIL
• BHEL – will contribute its indigenously developed Pressurized Fluidized Bed Gasification (PFBG) technology
• National Coal Gasification Mission – aims to achieve 100 MT of coal gasification by 2030
• HQs of CIL – Kolkata, West Bengal | CMD – P. M. Prasad

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349. Ministry of Jal Shakti has signed agreements with 12 technical education
institutions to conduct a study and formulate a basin management plan of 6 rivers -
Narmada, Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Periyar, and Mahanadi. Following the success
of the ‘Ganga River Basin Management Plan’ framed by a consortium of 7 IITs led by
IIT Kanpur, the government has signed agreements with different technical institutes
for preparing the outlines of river basin management plans for these 6 rivers. The
agreements were signed between the institutes and the National River Conservation
Directorate (NRCD) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The Mahanadi River Basin Management Plan will be undertaken by IIT
Raipur & IIT Rourkela, Narmada by IIT Indore & IIT Gandhinagar, Godavari by IIT Hyderabad & NEERI Nagpur, Cauvery by
IISc Bengaluru & NIT Trichy, Krishna by NIT Warangal & NIT Surathka, and the Periyar River Basin Management Plan by IIT
Palakkad & NIT Calicut. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Jal Shakti – signed agreements with 12 technical education institutions
• Aim – to conduct a study & formulate a basin management plan of 6 rivers
• The 6 rivers are – Narmada, Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Periyar, & Mahanadi
• ‘Ganga River Basin Management Plan’ – framed by a consortium of 7 IITs led by IIT Kanpur
• River Basin Management Plans undertaken by different technical institutes :
- Mahanadi – by IIT Raipur & IIT Rourkela | Narmada – by IIT Indore & IIT Gandhinagar
- Godavari – by IIT Hyderabad & NEERI Nagpur | Cauvery – by IISc Bengaluru & NIT Trichy
- Krishna – by NIT Warangal & NIT Surathka | Periyar – by IIT Palakkad & NIT Calicut
• Minister of Jal Shakti: Gajendra Singh Sekhawat | Constituency – Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• MoS for Jal Shakti – Rajeev Chandrasekhar

350. Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm and wholly-owned
subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL), has partnered with Sri Lanka-
headquartered Elephant House to manufacture, market, distribute and sell beverages
under the ‘Elephant House’ brand across India. Elephant House is owned by Ceylon
Cold Stores PLC, a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest listed
conglomerate. Under the Elephant House brand, it manufactures and sells a wide
range of beverages including Necto, Cream Soda, EGB (Ginger Beer), Orange Barley and Lemonade to name a few. Other
Reliance-owned iconic beverage brands are as Campa, Sosyo, and Raskik. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RCPL + Elephant House (Sri Lanka) = partnered to manufacture, market, distribute & sell beverages
• It will be sold under ‘Elephant House’ brand across India
• Elephant House – is owned by Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC
• Other Reliance-owned iconic beverage brands – Campa, Sosyo, Raskik
• HQs of Reliance Group – Mumbai | CMD & CEO – Anil Ambani | Group President – Parul Sharma
• Sri Lanka – Colombo/Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte – Sri Lankan Rupee
• PM – Dinesh Gunawardena | President – Ranil Wickremesinghe

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❖ Important Obituaries in February 2024:
• Navarre Scott Momaday (USA) — A Novelist & Short Story Writer (Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969)
• Sadhu Meher — Renowned Odia actor-director (Padma Shri in 2017)
• Hage Geingob — President of Namibia
• Mir Mohammad Farooq Nazki — A Broadcaster & poet (Sahitya Akademi award in Kashmiri language in 1995)
• Sebastian Pinera Echenique — Former President of Chile
• Usha Kiran Khan — A Hindi & Maithili Writer (Padma Shri in 2015 & Sahitya Akademi Award in 2011)
• Kelvin Kiptum (Kenya) — World marathon record holder (World record at Chicago Marathon with a time of
2:00:35)
• Ishwar Chander Verma — A Renowned Specialist in Genetic Medicine (Padma Shri in 2023)
• A Ramachandran — A Renowned Artist (a Fellow of Lalit Kala Akademi in 2002, Padma Bhushan in 2005)
• Fali Nariman — A Senior Supreme Court Lawyer, served as the Additional Solicitor General between 1972 & 1975
(Padma Bhushan in 1991, Padma Vibhushan in 2007)
• Mohammed Imtiaz Qureshi — a renowned Indian Chef (1st professional chef to be honoured with Padma Shri in
2016)
• Ameen Sayani — A renowned Radio Presenter (Padma Shri in 2009, Living Legend Award in 2006 from FICCI)
(He was known for his program Binaca Geetmala on Radio Ceylon)
• Fali Sam Nariman — A renowned Indian Jurist (Padma Bhushan in 1991 & Padma Vibhushan in 2007)
• Manohar Joshi — Former CM of Maharashtra (1995-1999) & former Speaker of Lok Sabha
• Kumar Shahani — Indian Filmmaker & Screenwriter (3 National Awards)

Important Days
48th Raising Day of Indian Coast Guard Day (ICG)
February 1
(Motto of ICG - “Vayam Rakshamah”)
UN’s World Interfaith Harmony Week
February 1-7
(Theme - “Uniting for Peace”)
World Wetlands Day
(Theme - “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing”)
February 2 (The day marks the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 Feb 1971, in Ramsar, Iran)
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day
(Theme - “Living Well with RA: Early Diagnosis, Effective Management, and a Brighter Future”)
World Cancer Day
(Theme - “Close the Care Gap”)
February 4
National Day of Sri Lanka
4th UN International Day of Human Fraternity
February 4-10 International Development Week 2024
February 6 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

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(Theme - “Her Voice. Her Future. Investing in Survivor-Led Movements to End Female Genital
Mutilation.”)
Safer Internet Day (2nd day of 2nd week of 2nd month)
(Theme - “Together for a Better Internet”)
February 7 National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
National Deworming Day
(Theme - “Eliminate STH: Invest in a Healthier Future for Children.”)
World Pulses Day
February 10
(Theme - “Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People”)
International Day of the Arabian Leopard
(Arabian leopard is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ in IUCN Red List)
World Day of the Sick
(Theme - “Healing Love: Witnessing to Compassion and Service”)
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
February 11 (Theme - “Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a New Era for Sustainability”)
(Subtheme - “Think Science. Think Peace.”)
World Unani Day (birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan)
(Theme - “Unani Medicine for One Earth, One Health”)
Darwin Day
(The day commemorates the birth of Charles Darwin, the British naturalist & biologist)
National Productivity Day
(Theme - “Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Productivity Engine for Economic Growth”)
International Epilepsy Day (2nd Monday of Feb)
February 12
(Theme - “Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey”)
2nd UN International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and When Conducive to
Terrorism
International Epilepsy Day (2nd Monday in February)
(Theme – “Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey”)
February 12-18 Indian Productivity Week
World Radio Day
February 13 (Theme - “Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining and Educating”)
National Women’s Day (145th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu)
February 14 World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day
World Anthropology Day 2024 (3rd Thursday in Feb)
February 15 International Childhood Cancer Day
(Theme – “Unveiling Challenges”)
Global Tourism Resilience Day
February 17 (Theme - “Resilient Tourism: Building Back Better”)
13th World Pangolin Day
February 18 World Whale Day 2024 (3rd Sunday of February)
World Pangolin Day
February 19
(Theme - “Unity for the Conservation of Pangolins: Working to Keep Pangolins in the Wild”)
Statehood Day of Arunachal Pradesh & Mizoram
February 20 World Day of Social Justice
(Theme - “ Global Coalition for Social Justice: Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances.”)
International Mother Language Day (IMLD)
February 21 (Theme - “Multilingual Education - a Pillar of Intergenerational Learning”)
(The movement for IMLD started in Bangladesh)

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Page | 147 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
World Thinking Day
(Theme - “Our World, Our Thriving Future”)
February 22
World Scout Day
(Theme - “Scouts for a Better World”)
World Peace and Understanding Day
February 23
(Theme - “Service above Self”)
February 24 Central Excise Day
World NGO Day
(Theme - “Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the SDGs”)
World Protein Day (also, National Protein Day)
February 27
(Theme - “Solve With Protein”)
Anosmia Awareness Day
(Anosmia - the loss of the sense of smell)
National Science Day (commemorates the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928)
February 28
(Theme - “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat”)
Rare Disease Day (since 2008)
February 29 (Theme - “Share Your Colours”)
Digital Learning Day (last Thursday of Friday)

Important Books & Authors

“The Rajiv I Knew - And Why He Was India’s Most Misunderstood Prime Minister”
Mani Shankar Aiyar
(Published by Juggernaut Books)
“Political History of Assam (1947-1971)” Dr Rajen Saikia (edited)
“KASHMIR: Travels in Paradise on Earth” Romesh Bhattacharji
“Transforming HARYANA: 9 Incredible Years of Haryana Government”
Kuldip Chand Agnihotri (edited)
(Released by - Jagdeep Dhankhar)
“Artificial Intelligence and National Security”
Amit Sinha & Vijay Khare
(Released by - CDS Gen Anil Chauhan)
“Shree Jagannatha, Lord of The Universe” Naveen Patnaik (released)
“Sculpted Stones: Mysteries of Mamallapuram” Ashwin Prabhu
“Neeraj Chopra: The Man Who Made History” Norris Pritam

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4. Ministry of Textiles organized “One Bharat Sari Walkathon” in Kota, Rajasthan,

74. On February 1, the government has decided to consolidate the demand

Arts & Cultural Affairs

179. Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in collaboration

183. A ‘Green Propulsion System’, developed under the Technology

187. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has discovered a

192. Microsoft announced an initiative, called “ADVANTAG(I)GE INDIA”, to

204. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has partnered

206. Japan has successfully launched an “Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-

Appointments & Resignations

254. Shashi Tharoor, a prolific auth or and a diplomat-turned-politician, was conferred

Schemes & Initiatives

282. To support production of natural rubber in the country, the Indian

Meetings, Conferences & Summits

292. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated “India Energy Week

303. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration

320. Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) has

345. National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC), under the

Important Books & Authors

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