Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 25th September 2024

Correct Answer:  (a) Pune

Explanation:  The foundation stone for India’s first of its kind CO2-to-Methanol pilot plant with an overall capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD) was unveiled virtually by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, at Thermax Limited premises in Pune, Maharashtra. To demonstrate CO2 capture and utilization (CCU) technologies, playing a crucial role in India’s journey towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) and Thermax Ltd. will collaborate to develop the CCU technology. The plant with an overall capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD) has been designed considering CO2 emissions from a diverse range of sources, including power plants, cement and steel plants, fertilizer plants, and refineries.

• This initiative also aligns with India’s goals of energy self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and sustainable development (Viksit Bharat).
• Additionally, NITI Aayog, in partnership with the Ministry of Petroleum, isdeveloping policies for 15% methanol-blended diesel to reduce crude oil imports.
• The findings from the pilot plantcould lead to scaling up CO2-to-methanol conversion technologies, aiding in the decarbonization of the coal-based thermal power sector, which contributes to 30% of India’s emissions.

Correct Answer:  (b) 10th

Explanation:  10th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Conference starting tomorrow ( 23 September) will be hosted by the Indian Parliament in New Delhi with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla serving as the Chairperson. The conference will bring together 46 Presiding Officers, four Chairmen, 25 Speakers, three Deputy Chairmen and 14 Deputy Speakers from various State and Union Territory Legislatures along with their Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and accompanying officers.  Prior to the conference, there will be an Executive Committee meeting of the CPA India Region. The CPA India Region was established in 2004 and currently has 31 Member Branches including the Parliament of India and 30 State and Union Territory Legislatures. This will be the second time that the CPA India Region Conference is being held in New Delhi.

Correct Answer:  (d) 19.94 lakh

Explanation:  EPFO recorded the highest number of net members in July. Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) added a record 19.94 lakh net members in July 2024. It is the highest recorded increase since payroll data tracking began in April 2018. The net member enrolment under EPFO was 16.70 lakh in June 2024. The youth group (18-25 age group) recorded the highest-ever net payroll additions at 8.77 lakh.

Correct Answer:  (c) Uttar Pradesh

Explanation:  A recent government report highlights the alarming rise in atrocities against Dalits, officially known as Scheduled Castes (SCs), in India. Of the 51,656 cases registered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in 2022, Uttar Pradesh accounted for the highest percentage at 23.78% with 12,287 cases, followed by Rajasthan with 8,651 cases (16.75%) and Madhya Pradesh with 7,732 cases (14.97%). Notably, 97.7% of all reported atrocities against SCs occurred in just 13 states, underscoring a concentrated issue in these regions. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh led in atrocities against Scheduled Tribes (STs) with 2,979 cases (30.61%).

Key Findings on Atrocities Against SCs and STs (2022)

• Dalits: The report reveals that the majority of atrocities against SCs were reported from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
• ST Cases: Similarly, atrocities against STs were concentrated in 13 states, with Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan again leading in reported cases.
• Conviction Rates: Alarmingly, the conviction rate under the Act has dropped from 39.2% in 2020 to 32.4% in 2022, indicating systemic challenges in achieving justice for victims.

Correct Answer:  (c) Swimming

Explanation:  Emerging swimmer Pratyasa Ray has been selected for the 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 for her achievements in swimming. A proud moment for Odisha’s sporting fraternity. Pratyasa Ray, a promising talent in the field of swimming with a remarkable track record, has been selected for this year’s award in recognition of her exceptional performances.  Born in Bargarh district of Odisha.

• Emerged as the Joint-Best Swimmer in Women Open category, bagging 6 Gold medals in the 64th Odisha State Swimming Championship in 2024.
• Won 6 Gold medals in the 63rd Odisha State Swimming Championship in 2023.
• Adjudged best in sub-junior category of the State Swimming Championship, in 2011 winning 4 Gold medals (50m butterfly, 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle) and 1 Silver medal in 50m breaststroke.
• Won 2 Silver and 1 Bronze medal in the 2nd Odisha National Swimming Ranking Championship (Final) 2023.
• Won 2 Silver medals (one each in women 50m and 200m backstroke events) in the Thailand Age Group Swimming Championships at Assumption University in Bangkok on 7 and 10 April 2023.

Ekalabya Puraskar was instituted by charitable body IMPaCT (Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT) in 1993 and managed by IMFA, the leading ferro alloys producer in the country. It is now considered the most prestigious sports award in Odisha. The award is given every year to young sportspersons of Odisha in recognition of their outstanding performance in the preceding two years.

Correct Answer:  (d) Jai Anmol Ambani

Explanation:  The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) imposed a penalty of ₹1 crore on Jai Anmol Ambani, son of Anil Ambani, for alleged irregularities in Reliance Home Finance. Jai Anmol did not exercise reasonable due diligence for the entire GPCL(general purpose working capital ) lending and the onward lending by these GPCL entities to other Reliance ADAG group companies including Reliance Capital, the markets regulator alleged. Sebi said that Jai Anmol approved unsecured loan of ₹20 crores to Visa Capital Partners and ₹20 crore to Accura Production Pvt Ltd. Sebi also imposed a penalty of ₹25 crore on Anil Ambani and restrained him from holding key managerial or directorial roles in any listed company or market intermediary for five years.

Correct Answer:  (a) Bharat Khera

Explanation:  The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India has constituted a committee of experts under the chairmanship of Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary, DoCA to recommend a robust framework for Repairability Index and to empower consumers and promote sustainable practices within the tech industry. By developing Repairability Index, DoCA seeks to provide consumers with greater transparency of repair information for their products and foster a more sustainable technology industry. In a significant step towards promoting consumer rights and sustainability, the National Workshop on the Right to Repair in the Mobile and Electronics Sector convened on August 29, 2024, has brought together industry stakeholders to establish a consensus in terms of framework for evaluating components for repairability index, fostering longevity in product design, and democratizing access to repair information as well as the availability of spare parts even after products are discontinued. The committee is expected to recommend enabling a framework for Policies/Rules/Guidelines that support repairability and integration of the repairability index with the extant regulatory provisions in the mobile and electronics sector to enhance consumer experiences in reusing the mobile and electronics products they own.

Correct Answer:  (c) 41st

Explanation:  Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 41st edition of Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 24, 2024. The three-day meeting serves as a vital forum for ICG Commanders to engage in meaningful discussions on strategic, operational & administrative matters in the backdrop of the evolving geopolitical landscapes and complexities of maritime security. The conference provides a platform for senior ICG leaders to meticulously evaluate key operational, material, logistical, HR development, training, and administrative initiatives undertaken over the past year.

They will also deliberate on vital milestones essential for the protection of the maritime interests of the nation. The Commanders will assess ongoing ICG projects designed to bolster Indigenisation through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, harmonising with the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar and Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Dr Niten Chandra were among the senior officers present.

Correct Answer:  (c) Jaipur

Explanation:  Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is set to host the prestigious 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards from March 7 to 9, 2025, at the JECC Sitapura. The announcement was made during a formal agreement signing ceremony at the iconic Albert Hall, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Rajasthan Tourism Commissioner VP Singh and IIFA Vice President Suresh Iyer, marking the beginning of preparations for this grand event. The Rajasthan government has allocated a total budget of ₹100 crore for the event. This includes ₹50 crore from the state government, ₹20 crore from the Rajasthan Industrial and Investment Corporation (RIICO), and ₹30 crore from the tourism department. Officials believe this large-scale event will significantly benefit the state’s tourism and cultural industries.

The 2025 IIFA Awards will introduce the inaugural IIFA Digital Awards, recognizing achievements in digital entertainment, including films and OTT content. This new category reflects the growing impact of digital media in the entertainment industry. Diya Kumari emphasized that the IIFA Awards 2025 will boost Rajasthan’s global image and create new employment and investment opportunities. The presence of international film stars is expected to open avenues for economic growth and tourism development, aligning with the government’s goals of increasing tourism revenue and attracting global investors.

Correct Answer:  (c) Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

Explanation:  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) received the 2024 @UN Inter-Agency Task Force Award for its significant contributions to preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and enhancing mental health. This recognition highlights ICMR’s contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to health. This recognition highlights ICMR’s initiatives, such as establishing national centres for Assistive Health Technology and conducting extensive surveys.

Correct Answer:  (b) Sangram Singh

Explanation: Commonwealth Heavyweight champion Sangram Singh has made an unforgettable entrance into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). The Indian wrestler’s debut at the Gama International Fighting Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia, has set a new benchmark for Indian fighters in international MMA competitions. Singh’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Competing in the 93 kg weight class, he secured victory in a mere one minute and thirty seconds. This lightning-fast win now stands as the record for the fastest victory by an Indian fighter in this division, cementing Singh’s place in MMA history from his very first bout.

The match-up between Singh and his opponent, Pakistani fighter Ali Raza Nasir, presented a stark contrast in age and experience. Despite facing an adversary 17 years his junior, Singh’s veteran instincts and honed skills proved decisive. This victory not only showcases Singh’s exceptional abilities but also demonstrates that age is no barrier to success in high-level combat sports.

Correct Answer:  (b) 24th September

Explanation:  World Bollywood Day, observed annually on September 24th, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and global influence of Indian cinema. This day serves as a unique platform for Bollywood enthusiasts and film industry professionals to come together and celebrate the art of cinema and its contributions to culture and society. It’s a day that not only honours the magic of Bollywood but also raises awareness about Indian culture and storytelling among audiences worldwide. World Bollywood Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a global phenomenon that showcases the universal appeal of Indian cinema. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the neon-lit avenues of New York, Bollywood’s influence stretches far and wide, touching the hearts of millions across diverse cultures and languages.

The primary aim of World Bollywood Day is to recognize the cultural significance of Bollywood cinema. This annual event brings to the forefront the artistry and impact of Indian films, highlighting the contributions of actors, directors, producers, and the entire film fraternity. It provides a platform for audiences to express their love for Bollywood and enhances awareness about the industry’s role in shaping popular culture.

Correct Answer:  (d) Lt Gen Muhammad Asim Malik

Explanation:  Pakistan has appointed Lieutenant-General Muhammad Asim Malik as the new director general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), marking the first leadership change in the agency since 2021. The appointment comes amid scrutiny of ISI’s political involvement, with one former ISI chief arrested for supporting ex-PM Imran Khan, who claims the agency is being used against him under current chief Naveed Anjum. Malik, currently the army’s Adjudicate General and a graduate of Fort Leavenworth, USA, will assume the role on September 30, 2024, according to reports from a security source and Geo News.

The role of ISI chief, a powerful position in Pakistan, intersects domestic politics, military operations, and foreign relations, despite technically reporting to the prime minister. In 2021, a conflict over the ISI leadership contributed to Imran Khan’s falling out with top military generals, leading to his removal from office. Pakistan’s military, which has ruled the country for over 30 years, denies pressuring judges or playing a role in politics, but continues to influence key areas of governance.

Correct Answer:  (b) 3.2%

Explanation: The Unemployment Rate (UR) in usual status for persons aged 15 years and above was 3.2% during July 2023 – June 2024. This figure remained consistent for both males and females in the same age group. The UR for males slightly decreased from 3.3% in the previous year to 3.2% in the reported period. However, for females, the UR increased from 2.9% to 3.2% during the same time span.

• The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) has also shown an increasing trend, indicating more individuals are entering the workforce.
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), age 15 years and above: 60.1%
• LFPR for female of age 15 years above: 41.7%.
• In rural areas, the LFPR increased from 50.7% in 2017-18 to 63.7% in 2023-24.
• For urban areas, LFPR improved from 47.6% to 52.0% during the same period.
• Gender disparity in LFPR remains significant, with male participation at 78.8% and female at 41.7%.

Correct Answer:  (d) Certified Security Professional for Artificial Intelligence (CSPAI)

Explanation:  The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with SISA, a global leader in forensic-driven cybersecurity, has launched the Certified Security Professional for Artificial Intelligence (CSPAI) program. This initiative represents India’s first ANAB-accredited AI security certification, marking a significant milestone in AI security standards. The program was officially launched during a ceremony at SISA’s headquarters in Bengaluru. It was designed to equip security professionals with the necessary skills to effectively integrate AI into business applications while adhering to sustainable practices. CERT-In’s Director General, Dr. Sanjay Bahl, emphasized the importance of the CSPAI program, stating that it empowers professionals to understand AI systems and proactively address emerging threats, enhancing skills to deploy secure and trustworthy AI in various work environments.

Founder and CEO of SISA, Mr. Dharshan Shanthamurthy, shared his vision for the program, noting its alignment with the Cyber Nalanda initiative to address future cybersecurity challenges. He committed to tackling pressing security issues in India and globally, highlighting that certified professionals will enhance organizational security and foster greater trust among customers and stakeholders. VP of Forensics and R&D at SISA, Mr. Renju Verghese, provided a detailed presentation on the CSPAI program’s unique features and security strategies for protecting AI systems. As the national agency for incident response, CERT-In and SISA, a forensics-driven cybersecurity provider, are dedicated to advancing cybersecurity standards in the digital landscape.