1. Who were the entities involved in the development of the indigenous explosive detectors for security forces?
- Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) and Ministry of Defence (MoD)
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and DRDO
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and National Security Council (NSC)
The correct answer is electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and DRDO.
In News
- Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have jointly developed two categories of indigenous explosive detectors for security forces.
Key Points
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced this significant development on March 7.
- The explosive detectors were handed over to the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for deployment with security forces.
- The development aims to strengthen security measures and enhance detection capabilities within security agencies.
- The initiative represents a collaboration between key government organizations to address security challenges effectively.
2. What is the focus of HSBC India’s Business Case programme for undergraduate students?
- Providing financial assistance to students
- Enhancing leadership skills among students
- Empowering youth for career preparedness
- Offering internship opportunities to students
The correct answer is Empowering youth for career preparedness
In News
- HSBC India has concluded its annual HSBC India Business Case programme (HIBCP) aimed at empowering youth for career preparedness.
Key Points
- This is the 10th edition of the programme, designed specifically for undergraduate students.
- Over 3,100 students from 72 undergraduate colleges across India participated in the programme.
- The final national round, hosted in Mumbai, saw two teams selected to participate in the HSBC Asia Pacific Business Case programme.
- The programme focuses on skill enhancement, critical thinking, and leadership development among youth.
- It involves real-life business case studies to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.
- The programme aims to develop job-ready skills, emphasizing inclusion from institutions in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
3. Who has launched the world’s first large-scale mechanized tropical seaweed farm off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia?
- Sea6 Energy
- PRNewswire
- The Indonesian government
- Ekas Island
The correct answer is Sea6 Energy
In News
- Sea6 Energy has launched the world’s first large-scale mechanized tropical seaweed farm off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia.
Key Points
- The farm, located off Ekas on Lombok Island, spans one square kilometer.
- This achievement is significant for establishing the scalability of sustainable tropical seaweed cultivation.
- The seaweed farm aims to produce biofertilizers, bioplastics, and continue research on renewable chemicals and fuels.
4. Who won the 2024 Pritzker Prize, often dubbed the “Nobel of architecture”?
- Kenzo Tange
- Riken Yamamoto
- Alejandro Aravena
- Tom Welsh
The correct answer is Riken Yamamoto
In News
- Riken Yamamoto wins the 2024 Pritzker Prize, becoming the ninth Japanese laureate.
Key Points
- Riken Yamamoto wins the 2024 Pritzker Prize for architecture.
- He is praised for his work in blurring boundaries between public and private dimensions in architecture.
- Yamamoto is known for his innovative housing projects and educational institutions.
- The jury, led by Alejandro Aravena, describes Yamamoto as a reassuring architect bringing dignity to everyday life.
- Yamamoto’s philosophy is influenced by his global travels, observing traditional societies’ spatial dynamics.
- He aims to reintroduce fluid thresholds between private and shared spaces in modern cities.
- Yamamoto founded his architecture firm over 50 years ago in Yokohama, Japan.
5. Which country recently launched the new arts and cultural destination, IMMERSEE, within the Sustainable City?
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Saudi Arabia
- Oman
- Kuwait
The correct answer is United Arab Emirates (UAE)
In News
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently launched a new arts and cultural destination called “IMMERSEE” within the Sustainable City in Dubai.
Key Points
- MMERSEE is dedicated to advancing sustainability education and operates entirely on solar energy, generating 300 per cent of its energy requirements.
- Located within the SEE Institute, the facility combines art and technology to inspire individuals and communities to embrace sustainable lifestyles and enact positive change.
- IMMERSEE features thoughtfully curated content, including digital art shows and 360-degree movies showcasing narratives of change-makers and highlighting social and environmental issues.
- The space provides a unique backdrop for events, exhibitions, and activations, aiming to engage visitors and encourage them to become active participants in the sustainability movement.
6. Who inaugurated the Bharat Semiconductor Research Centre (BSRC) regional center at IIST, Thiruvananthapuram, and the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) centers in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar
- Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan
- President of India Draupadi Murmu
The correct answer is Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar
In News
- Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurated two STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) Centers in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi.
Key Points
- He announced the establishment of a regional center for the Bharat Semiconductor Research Centre (BSRC) at IIST, Thiruvananthapuram.
- Chandrasekhar emphasized the importance of empowering startups and young Indians from Kerala to lead India’s transformation in semiconductors.
- He facilitated an MoU between IBM and C-DAC to accelerate India’s processor design and manufacturing capabilities for high-performance computing.
- The inauguration aimed to boost the electronics, IT sector, and startup ecosystem in Kerala, providing state-of-the-art facilities to emerging tech startups.
- Chandrasekhar highlighted the potential of Thiruvananthapuram to become a major technology hub in South India and emphasized the need for political vision to drive Kerala’s innovation economy.
7. Who were among the winners of the India-UK Achievers Honours in March 2024?
- Zoya Akhtar and Asma Khan
- Rishi Sunak and Honey Irani.
- Javed Akhtar and the Farhan Akhtar.
- Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao
The correct answer is Zoya Akhtar and Asma Khan
In News
- Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and British Indian chef Asma Khan honored at India-UK Achievers Honours in London.
Key Points
- The awards celebrate the achievements of Indian students and alumni pursuing international programs of study.
- Initiative organized by NISAU UK, British Council in India, and UK government’s Department for Business and Trade.
- “Class of 2024” recognized across arts, sports, entrepreneurship, and medicine.
- British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commends exceptional Indian talent showcased.
- Zoya Akhtar receives Living Legend Award for global contribution to Indian cinema.
- Asma Khan recognized for culinary excellence and bestselling recipe books on Indian cuisine.
- India-UK Achievers celebrated at UK Parliament complex, fostering interactions with policymakers.
- Sanam Arora, Chair of NISAU UK, underscores the transformative power of education and cross-cultural experiences.
8. Sudha Murty nominated to Rajya Sabha by President Murmu. She was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, for social work by the Government of India in ________.
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
The correct answer is 2006
In News
- Murty was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, for social work by the Government of India in 2006.
Key Points
- Sudha Murty, philanthropist and Chairperson of Infosys Foundation, has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Draupadi Murmu, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
- The President of India nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha for their contributions to arts, literature, sciences, and social services.
- Sudha Murty, aged 73, is a renowned philanthropist, author, and former chairperson of Infosys Foundation.
- Her husband, N.R. Narayana Murthy, is the founder of Infosys, and her son-in-law is UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
- Murty has received several accolades, including the Padma Shri in 2006 and the Padma Bhushan in 2023, for her significant social work contributions.
- With a background in computer science and engineering, Murty is actively involved in public healthcare initiatives of the Gates Foundation, establishing orphanages, supporting rural development efforts, and promoting education through various initiatives like providing computer and library facilities to Karnataka government schools and establishing the Murty Classical Library of India at Harvard University.
9. Which of the following weapon systems is NOT mentioned as part of the tri-services demonstration of indigenous weapons at Pokharan on March 12, 2024?
- Pinaka Multi barrel rocket launchers
- Agni-V intercontinental ballistic missile
- K-9 Vajra Self propelled howitzers
- BrahMos missile system
The correct answer is Agni-V intercontinental ballistic missile
In News
- The Indian Army is organizing a tri-services demonstration of indigenous weapon systems and platforms at Pokhran, Rajasthan on March 12, 2024.
Key Points
- The exercise is expected to be witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Army Chief General Manoj Pande.
- Indigenous weapon systems such as the Pinaka Multi-barrel rocket launchers, Arjun tanks, Dhanush howitzers, Tejas fighter aircraft, and various versions of the ALH Dhruv helicopters will demonstrate their firepower.
- The exercise aims to showcase indigenous weapon systems and platforms developed by Indian public sector and private firms.
- Indian Army innovators will also showcase their innovations during the exercise.
- Important equipment to be showcased include the K-9 Vajra Self-propelled howitzers, robotic mules, mobile air defense systems, integrated drone detection and neutralization systems, Sarvatra bridging systems, minefield plows, Akash air defense systems, and AK-203 assault rifles.
10. On which Indian Naval Station (INS) was INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’ commissioned in March 2024?
- INS Imphal
- INS Garuda
- INS Vikrant
- INS Kolkata
The correct answer is INS Imphal
In News
- INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’, the Indian Navy’s first MH 60R Squadron, was commissioned at INS Garuda, Southern Naval Command, Kochi on March 6, 2024.
Key Points
- The commissioning ceremony was attended by Adm R Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), along with other dignitaries including V Adm V Srinivas and V Adm Sanjay J Singh.
- The event included the presentation of a Guard of Honour to the CNS upon arrival.
- The ceremony featured the reading of the Squadron’s Commissioning Warrant by the Commanding Officer, followed by the unveiling of the Commissioning Plaque by the CNS.
- The Chief of the Naval Staff praised the MH 60R helicopter as a potent multi-role aircraft that will enhance India’s maritime capabilities and secure national interests.
- The MH 60R’s advanced sensors and multi-mission capabilities are expected to augment maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare efforts.
February Days & Events
March
1. Which of India’s neighboring countries celebrates its National Day on March 26?
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
The Correct Answer is Bangladesh.
- March 26 is the Independence Day of Bangladesh and celebrated as the National Day.
Key Points
- Bangladesh marks March 26 as the official Independence Day as it was on the day in 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman announced the birth of Bangladesh in a dramatic speech.
Additional Information
- Pakistan celebrates August 14 as the National day.
- Srilanka celebrates National day on 4 February to commemorate the country’s political independence from British rule in 1948.
2. World water day is celebrated on which day of the March?
- 20 March
- 21 March
- 22 March
- 23 March
The correct answer is 22 March.
Key Points
- World water day is celebrated on 22nd March.
Additional Information
- World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, focuses on the importance of freshwater.
- The theme of 2021 World water day is Valuing Water.
- International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems.
- Source:- https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day
March 2021 Important Days | |
Date | Name of Important Days |
1 March | Zero Discrimination Day |
1 March | World Civil Defence Day |
3 March | World Wildlife Day |
3 March | World Hearing Day |
4 March | National Safety Day |
8 March | International Women’s Day |
10 March | CISF Raising Day |
10 March | No Smoking Day (Second Wednesday of March) |
12 March | Mauritius Day |
14 March | Pi Day |
14 March | International Day of Action for Rivers |
15 March | World Consumer Rights Day |
15 March | Ramakrishna Jayanti |
16 March | National Vaccination Day |
18 March | Ordnance Factories Day (India) |
20 March | International Day of Happiness |
20 March | World Sparrow Day |
21 March | World Forestry Day |
21 March | World Down Syndrome Day |
21 March | World Poetry Day |
22 March | World Water Day |
23 March | World Meteorological Day |
24 March | World Tuberculosis (TB) Day |
27 March | World Theatre Day |
3. March 20 is observed as the International Day of Happiness. Since which year, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness?
- 2011
- 2013
- 2015
- 2017
The correct answer is 2013.
Key Points
- March 20 is observed as the International Day of Happiness.
- Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world.
- The resolution to adopt it was initiated by Bhutan, a country that recognized the value of national happiness over national income since the early 1970s.
4. World Sleep Day is observed on the Friday before the March equinox every year. It was first observed in _____?
- 2006
- 2008
- 2010
- 2012
The correct answer is 2008.
Key Points
- World Sleep Day is observed on the Friday before the March equinox every year.
- It is organized by the World Sleep Day Committee of the World Sleep Society
- It was first observed in 2008.
- It aims to lessen the burden of sleep problems on society through better prevention and management of sleep disorders.
Additional Information
- World Sleep Day is observed annually with an aim to raise awareness and call to action on important issues related to sleep — including medicine, education, social aspects and driving.
- This year, the theme and slogan of the day is ‘Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World’.
- Human sleep architecture is defined by polysomnography (PSG) and divided into different stages: Four stages of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and one stage of rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep.
5. Which of the following Days is observed every year on 23 March?
- World Health Day
- World Meteorological Day
- World Malaria Day
- World AIDS Day
The correct answer is World Meteorological Day.
- World Meteorological Day takes place every year on 23 March.
- World Meteorological Day in 2021 is devoted to the theme “the ocean, our climate and weather.”
- It commemorates the coming into force on 23 March 1950 of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization.
- It showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to the safety and wellbeing of society and is celebrated with activities around the world.
- World Health Day – 7 April.
- World Malaria Day – 25 April.
- World AIDS Day – 1 December.
- World Hepatitis Day – 28 July.
6. International Day of happiness is observed every year around the world on March 20. In which year did the UN start celebrating this day?
- 2009
- 2011
- 2013
- 2015
The correct answer is 2013.
Key Points
- International Day of happiness is observed every year around the world on March 20.
- The UN started celebrating this day in 2013.
- The resolution was initiated by Bhutan.
- Bhutan initially prioritized the value of National Happiness over National Income in the 1970s.
- Bhutan is known for adopting the goal of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product at the 66th General Assembly.
Important Points
- This year’s International Happiness Day theme is set as ‘Keep Calm, Stay Wise and Be Kind.’
- The main aim of the day is to create awareness among people that happiness is one most important things in an individual’s life.
7. World Consumer Rights day is observed on which date?
- 8th March
- 15th March
- 21st March
- 20th March
The correct answer is 15 March.
Key Points
- World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on 15th March.
- The idea of celebrating a consumer rights day was given by former US President John F Kennedy in 1962.
- The theme of World Consumer Rights Day 2023 is “Empowering consumers through clean energy transitions”
- Its main objective is consumer rights are to be protected and respected.
- National Consumer Day is observed every year on 24 December.
Additional Information
- April 14th:AmbedkarJayanti
- August 15th:Indian Independence Day
- March 8th:International Women’s Day
8. Every year, the 1st Friday of March is celebrated as Employee Appreciation Day. Who was the founder of this day?
- Dr Bob Nelson
- Dr Ben Crump
- Dr Aurora James
- Dr Tom Brady
The correct answer is Dr. Bob Nelson.
Key Points
- Every year, the 1st Friday of March is celebrated as Employee Appreciation Day, as a recognition of the good work of employees.
- The day was introduced to acknowledge the hard work and diligence of employees and bestow them with the recognition that they deserve.
- Dr. Bob Nelson, the founder of the organization Recognition Professionals International, was the founder of the day.
Additional Information
- This day is considered an opportunity to create a positive bond between employers and employees and to ensure a healthy mental and physical workspace for individuals.
- Dr. Bob Nelson introduced Employee Appreciation Day in 1995 to thank employees and boost their morale.
9. World Civil Defence Day is observed on 1 March. This day was declared as a global holiday by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) in which year?
- 1990
- 1992
- 1994
- 1996
The correct answer is 1990.
Key Points
- World Civil Defence Day is observed on 1 March.
- This day was declared as a global holiday by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) in 1990.
- It honours the significance of civil defence and the personnel who have sacrificed their lives for it.
- The ICDO is an intergovernmental organisation that helps citizens develop and stay secure while also protecting infrastructure and the environment.
Important Points
- ICDO stands for civil protection, civil defence, and civil safety.
- The International Civil Defence Organisation has 58 member states and 17 observer states and conducts as many training programmes as possible to improve the human resources of its member states’ civil defence cadres.
- ICDO, was created in 1931 by Surgeon-General George Saint-Paul who founded the Association of Geneva Zones, which later became the ICDO.
- Saint-Paul intended to build safe zones where residents may take refuge in times of war after witnessing the consequences of war on the populace.
10. When is World Wildlife Day observed?
- 1 March
- 2 March
- 3 March
- 4 March
The correct answer is 3 March.
Key Points
- World Wildlife Day is observed annually on March 3 to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s flora and fauna.
- On December 20, 2013, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 3 March as the UN World Wildlife Day.
The theme for World Wildlife Day 2021 is “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet”.
Additional Information
- The theme of 2022: “Recovering key species for ecosystem restoration”
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