The correct answer is 2.9% per year. In News

• According to the data presented by Surjit Bhalla and Karan Bhasin, the real per capita consumption growth in India has been recorded at 2.9% per year since 2011-12.

Key Points

• This growth rate signifies the increase in average consumption expenditure per person over the specified period.
• The data also highlights that rural growth at 3.1% per year has outpaced urban growth, which stood at 2.6% per year.
• The significant rural growth reflects the effectiveness of government policies focused on redistribution and inclusive growth.
• The urban Gini (x100) (index to measure inequality) declined from 36.7 to 31.9; the rural Gini declined from 28.7 to 27.0.
• This sustained growth in consumption has contributed to the sharp decline in headcount poverty ratio in India.
• The consistent increase in household consumption indicates improving living standards and economic well-being across the population.

The correct answer is Begum Bazar, Hyderabad. In News

• The 21-ft statue of Maharana Pratap was installed and unveiled at the 'Maharana Pratap Chowk' at Begum Bazar in Hyderabad.

Key Points

• Installed by the Maharana Pratap Jagruti Manch, it is claimed to be the first and largest statue of Maharana Pratap in Telangana.
• Weighing about two tons, the statue was crafted by artist Sunder Singh over a period of three months.
• Thakur Surender Singh, a youth leader from the Rajput community, spearheaded the initiative and execution of the statue.
• The unveiling ceremony was attended by various dignitaries including Rajya Sabha Member Anil Kumar Yadav and MLA Makkan Singh Raj Thakur.
• Maharana Pratap, known for resisting the Mughals, particularly during the battle of Haldighati, is revered as a Hindutva icon.

The correct answer is Odisha

In News

•  From the state of Odisha, the famous Cuttack Rupa Tarakasi (silver filigree), earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag,

Key Points

• The Cuttack Rupa Tarakasi or silver filigree, known for its fine craftsmanship and luxurious design in classical jewellery, is a handicraft from Cuttack.
• The GI tag for Cuttack Rupa Tarakasi was granted by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai, recognizing its unique cultural and historical significance.
• Historical records suggest that the technique of filigree might have been introduced to Cuttack from Persia through Indonesia around 500 years ago, likely via sea trade.

The correct answer is ​New Zealand. In News

• India replaced New Zealand to secure the top spot in the ICC World Test Championship rankings.

Key Points

• The update came after Australia's victory over New Zealand in the Wellington Test.
• India's position at the top was further strengthened by their lead in the ongoing test series against England.
• The Indian Men's Cricket Team, led by Rohit Sharma, demonstrated great form by winning three consecutive matches against England.
• This elevated India's position in the WTC points table, showcasing their dominance in Test Cricket.
• India's consistent performance has positioned them as strong contenders in the ICC World Test Championship.

The correct answer is Cochin Shipyard Limited. In News

• Union Ports and Shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the 60T bollard pull tug named ‘Ocean Grace’ and the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU).

Key Points

• The first-ever Made-in-India ASTDS tug named 'Ocean Grace' was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.
• The tug was inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal virtually on March 2, 2024.
• Cochin Shipyard Limited developed the tug under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways' initiative promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• The Ocean Grace is equipped with advanced capabilities and stands as a pinnacle of maritime engineering.
• The event also saw the launch of a Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) as part of the port's corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• The inauguration highlighted India's commitment to self-reliance and excellence in maritime infrastructure.

The correct answer is Neeraj Chopra

In News

•  Neeraj Chopra has been introduced as the brand ambassador for Bharat Petroleum Corporation's premium petrol 'Speed'.

Key Points

• Chopra, an Olympic and World Javelin Champion, is renowned for his achievements in athletics, representing winning, performance, and success.
• His role model status and exceptional journey align perfectly with the values of 'Speed'.
• G. Krishnakumar, chairman and managing director of BPCL, expressed delight in having Chopra as the brand ambassador, highlighting his performance, efficiency, and consistency.
• Sukhmal Jain, director of marketing at BPCL, emphasized Chopra's winning spirit and dedication to excellence, resonating with the attributes of 'Speed'.
• The introduction of Chopra reaffirms BPCL's commitment to maintaining high standards of performance and reliability.

The correct answer is Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik

In News

•  The coffee table book on the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023 was released by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

Key Points

• The book was published by Sportstar, the sports magazine of The Hindu Group, focusing on the hockey tournament held in Odisha.
• This release event had notable attendees including Ayon Sengupta, Editor of Sportstar, and Sridhar Aranala, Vice President of The Hindu group.
• The 252-page book encompasses vivid captures of every notable on-field and off-field moment from the World Cup, aiming to preserve the memories for eternity.
• By releasing this book, Odisha's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik demonstrated the state's significant role in promoting and celebrating hockey, underlining Odisha's continued commitment to the sport.
• The publication serves not only as a memory archive for fans but also highlights Odisha's capacity to host international sports events, promoting hockey culture within the state and across India.

The correct answer is Haj Suvidha. In News

• The Minority Affairs Minister, Smriti Irani, launched the Haj Suvidha Mobile Application in New Delhi.

Key Points

• The app aims to enhance the experience of Haj pilgrims by providing various facilities and services.
• Smriti Irani highlighted the coordinated efforts of various ministries in the NDA government to ensure a smooth and convenient Haj pilgrimage.
• Over 5000 women have applied under the Lady without Mehram (LWM) category for Haj this year.
• The Haj Suvidha Mobile App enables pilgrims to share their location with officials in case of any need and helps them locate nearby health facilities.

The correct answer is 24th. In News

• Shehbaz Sharif has become Pakistan's Prime Minister for the second time, cementing his role as the 24th PM of the country.

Key Points

• His victory in the National Assembly, with 201 votes, solidifies his position as the head of government.
• Shehbaz Sharif emphasized his commitment to revitalizing Pakistan's economy and eliminating terrorism during his victory speech.
• He expressed gratitude to his elder brother Nawaz Sharif and allies for their trust and support in allowing him to lead a coalition government.
• The election outcome, with Shehbaz securing a significant majority against his rival Omar Ayub Khan, reflects the confidence placed in his leadership.
• Shehbaz Sharif's pledge to maintain cordial relations with neighboring countries based on principles of equality signals a diplomatic approach aimed at regional stability.

The correct answer is 6.8%

In News

•  Moody's Investor Service upgraded India's GDP growth forecast for the year 2024 to 6.8% from an earlier estimate of 6.1%.

Key Points

• This revision was due to stronger-than-expected economic performance observed in 2023, showcasing robust momentum in the South Asian economy.
• The adjustment reflects positive trends anticipated to continue through 2024, backed by data from the last quarters.
• India exceeded expectations with a significant GDP growth rate of 8.4% in the last quarter of 2023, attributed to strong manufacturing and construction activities.
• The growth prediction by Moody's positions India as likely the fastest-growing economy among the G-20 nations over the forecast period.
• This forecast adjustment was influenced by high-frequency indicators suggesting that the economic momentum observed in the latter part of 2023 is carrying into the current calendar year's first quarter.

The correct answer is Taxation.In News

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has inaugurated the National Conference of Enforcement Chiefs of State and Central GST formations in New Delhi on March 4, 2024.

Key Points

• The Department of Revenue has organized the one-day conference.
• The conference has included comprehensive deliberations on combating GST evasion and fake invoicing, and sharing best practices.
• It has served as a valuable platform for both Centre and State GST Enforcement authorities to share best practices, foster mutual learning, and collectively strengthen the GST administration.
• Participants have actively engaged in discussions, exchanging insights and experiences.
• Various strategies and measures have been discussed and implemented to address challenges related to GST enforcement.
• The conference has contributed to enhancing collaboration and coordination among enforcement authorities at both central and state levels.

The correct answer is 1996. In News

• National Safety Day is observed on 4th March to highlight safety measures and explore ways to make every sector safer for people.

Key Points

• In 1996, on March 4, the Ministry of Labour and Employment of the Government of India established the National Safety Council.
• It was established as a self-financing non-governing body initially.
• In the year 2000, it was reestablished as a public trust under the Bombay Public Trust Act of 1950.
• National Safety Day was announced on March 4, the same day the National Safety Council was established.
• Since then, National Safety Day has been observed annually on March 4 to promote safety awareness across all sectors.
• The National Safety Council's campaigns have significantly contributed to spreading safety awareness and promoting safety measures in various organizations.

The correct answer is Press Sewa Portal. In News

• The Government has notified the historic Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 and its rules.

Key Points

• The Act came into force from 1st March 2024.
• The new Act provides for an online system for facilitating the registration of newspapers and other periodicals in the country.
• The registration of newspapers and periodicals goes online through Press Sewa Portal.
• This portal facilitates the registration process under the newly enacted Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023.
• The Act, which came into force on March 1, 2024, aims to streamline the registration process and replace manual procedures.
• The new system eliminates cumbersome processes and multiple approvals, reducing hardships for publishers.
• Information and Broadcasting Ministry oversees the implementation of the Act, ensuring compliance with its provisions.
• Publishers can now submit applications, including intimation by the printer and transfer of ownership, online through the Press Sewa Portal for efficient processing.

The correct answer is 2 only. In News

• The Indian Navy is set to commission its first squadron of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, equipped with advanced capabilities, on March 6, 2024.

Key Points

• The squadron, designated as INAS 334, will be based in Kochi, enhancing India's maritime prowess.
• Lockheed Martin has developed this helicopter.
• The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters are armed with Hellfire missiles, MK-54 torpedoes, and precision-kill rockets, among other weapons.
• These helicopters are designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and vertical replenishment missions.
• The procurement of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters is part of a contract worth Rs 15,157 crore ($2.13 billion) with the US, signed in February 2020.
• The Navy has already inducted six of the 24 MH-60R choppers acquired under this contract.
• The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters are equipped with multi-mode radars and night-vision devices for enhanced operational capabilities.
• These helicopters have undergone rigorous testing in Indian conditions and have been fully integrated into the fleet to operate from various naval platforms.
• The induction of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters is crucial for the Navy, as it currently faces challenges with its aging fleet of anti-submarine warfare helicopters.
• The advanced capabilities of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters will strengthen India's maritime security and operational reach in the Indian Ocean Region.