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1. Which company secured a Rs 10,000 crore contract from Damodar Valley Corporation for the Koderma Thermal Power Station Phase II?
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has been awarded a Rs 10,000 crore contract by Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for the Koderma Thermal Power Station Phase-II in Jharkhand. This significant project involves the supply and installation of major equipment, including boilers, turbines, generators, and associated systems. BHEL's involvement extends to civil works and commissioning, highlighting its key role in enhancing India's thermal power infrastructure and reinforcing its position as a leading player in the energy sector.
2. Which country has secured the operational rights for a terminal at Mongla Port in Bangladesh?
India has successfully obtained the operational rights for a terminal at Mongla Port in Bangladesh, which is the country's second-largest seaport. This strategic acquisition is significant as it represents a counter to China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region. Indian Port Global Limited (IPGL) will manage the terminal, which will enhance India's regional presence and security. This development underscores India’s efforts to bolster its strategic interests and maritime influence in South Asia.
3. What percentage of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is now permitted for aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) via the automatic route?
The government has authorized 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) via the automatic route for the aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector. This move is aimed at boosting the MRO industry by increasing foreign investment. Alongside this, a uniform 5% IGST rate on aircraft parts and tools imports has been introduced, which enhances the sector’s competitiveness. The new policies also include extended export periods, reduced GST, exempted customs duty, and simplified clearance procedures, all designed to improve efficiency and attract investment.
4. When is World Breastfeeding Week celebrated annually?
World Breastfeeding Week is a global healthcare event observed annually from August 1st to 7th. The 2024 theme is “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.” This campaign not only emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding but also celebrates the diverse experiences of breastfeeding mothers. It highlights how families, societies, communities, and health workers can support every breastfeeding mother, regardless of their circumstances. The event advocates for the rights of women to breastfeed their babies anytime and anywhere.
5. Which country is aiding India in its clean energy transition by providing critical minerals and partnering in research initiatives?
Australia is playing a significant role in aiding India’s transition to clean energy by supplying critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth minerals. The collaboration includes the Australia-India Critical Minerals Research Hub, a joint initiative between IIT-Hyderabad and Monash University. This hub focuses on sustainable practices in the extraction and processing of these minerals and analyzing supply chains. Australia's substantial deposits of these essential minerals are crucial for supporting India's clean energy goals and technological advancements.
6. Which company has partnered with Vested Finance to offer global investment opportunities for Indians and NRIs?
HDFC Securities has teamed up with Vested Finance to enhance global investment opportunities for Indians and NRIs. This partnership focuses on improving client investment experiences by offering features such as simplified fund transfers and customized US investment portfolios. The initiative, known as Global Investing 2.0, includes tools like Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), extended trading hours, and advanced analysis tools to aid in making well-informed investment decisions. This collaboration aims to streamline and enrich the investment process for its users.
7. When is National Mountain Climbing Day observed annually?
National Mountain Climbing Day is observed annually on August 1st to honour the spirit of adventure and the achievements of mountaineers. This day was established in recognition of Bobby Matthews and Josh Madigan, who successfully climbed all 46 peaks of the Adirondack Mountains, culminating in their final ascent of Whiteface Mountain on August 1, 2015. Their remarkable accomplishment inspired the creation of this national day, which celebrates mountaineering history, promotes environmental awareness, encourages outdoor safety, and highlights the health benefits of mountain climbing.
8. Which bank has partnered with Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd to facilitate financing for rooftop solar installations and EV charging stations?
Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd has partnered with the Bank of India to offer financing solutions for rooftop solar installations and EV charging stations. This collaboration makes Bank of India the first bank to partner with Tata Power Solar in these financing areas. The partnership supports various government initiatives aimed at promoting rooftop solar installations, such as the PM Surya Ghar Yojana and the National Solar Mission, thereby advancing both renewable energy adoption and electric vehicle infrastructure.
9. Which country hosted the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting for the first time?
India hosted the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting for the first time from 21st to 31st July 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event underscored India’s longstanding involvement with the World Heritage Convention since 1977. The session was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who announced a $1 million grant to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, supporting capacity building and conservation efforts. Additionally, the meeting resulted in the inscription of 24 new World Heritage Sites, with Moidams from Assam becoming India’s 43rd World Heritage Site.
10. When is World Nature Conservation Day 2024 observed?
World Nature Conservation Day 2024 is observed on Sunday, July 28. This annual event serves as a vital reminder of our collective duty to protect the environment. The day highlights the importance of conserving natural resources and safeguarding our planet's ecosystems. The 2024 theme, “Connecting People and Plants, Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” emphasizes the role of technology in advancing conservation efforts and addressing environmental challenges in an increasingly digital world. The observance has gained prominence due to rising awareness about climate change, natural disasters, and the depletion of natural resources.
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