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1. Which state in India has the highest number of public EV charging stations?
Karnataka leads India in the number of public EV charging stations, boasting 5,765 stations, with a significant concentration (85%) in the Bengaluru Urban district. This achievement is supported by the FAME scheme, investments by Bescom, and public-private partnerships (PPP). Karnataka is further strengthening its EV infrastructure by planning an additional 2,500 charging stations and allocating ₹35 crore for 100 more stations in collaboration with electricity companies.
2. Which automobile company has made the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) a standard feature on its entry-level hatchback models?
Maruti Suzuki, a renowned Indian automobile manufacturer, is elevating vehicle safety standards by introducing the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard on its entry-level hatchback models, Alto K10, and S-Presso. This move enhances stability and safety, especially during emergency manoeuvres, without affecting the price or adding extra cost to customers. With this initiative, Maruti Suzuki reinforces its commitment to providing affordable, safer, and technologically advanced vehicles, aligning with global standards and customer expectations.
3. Who has been appointed as the interim Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI)?
M Suresh has been appointed as the interim Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI). He is currently a Member of Air Navigation Services at AAI and will serve as the interim Chairman for three months or until a permanent replacement is found. His appointment comes after the government relieved the previous Chairman, Sanjeev Kumar, marking a transitional period in AAI's leadership.
4. Which organization committed a $500 million loan to improve healthcare in Maharashtra?
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has committed a $500 million loan to boost healthcare infrastructure in Maharashtra. This funding will help establish four new medical colleges with attached tertiary care hospitals, particularly focusing on climate resilience, gender inclusivity, and underserved districts. Additionally, the project aims to increase hospital bed capacity and recruit 500 new doctors, significantly enhancing the state's healthcare system.
5. How many new giant radio galaxies were discovered by four Bengali scientists using India's indigenous telescope?
In a significant scientific achievement, four Bengali scientists, under the leadership of Professor Sabyasachi Pal, discovered 34 new giant radio galaxies. This breakthrough was accomplished using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) after four years of dedicated research. These giant radio galaxies are much larger than typical galaxies and were identified through radiowaves, marking an important contribution to our understanding of the cosmos and the vast universe.
6. Which airline recently launched the inflight entertainment service named 'Vista'?
Air India has launched a new inflight entertainment service called 'Vista,' powered by Bluebox, to enhance the passenger experience across its fleet. This service allows passengers to stream over 950 hours of content on their personal devices while onboard. Initially available on wide-body aircraft, the service will soon extend to narrow-body planes as well, demonstrating Air India's commitment to modernizing its inflight offerings and improving customer satisfaction.
7. Which company received PLI certification for its S1 X 3 and 4 kWh electric scooters?
Bengaluru-based Ola Electric has been awarded PLI certification for its S1 X 3 and 4 kWh electric scooters, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey. This certification, granted by ARAI, confirms that Ola's products meet the localization requirements under the PLI Scheme, making them eligible for substantial incentives. This achievement not only supports Ola's growing orders but also reinforces its commitment to advancing India's electric vehicle ecosystem, in alignment with the government's vision for domestic electric mobility.
8. Which country's competition authorities have concluded investigations into Apple and Google's app stores?
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded investigations into Apple and Google over potential anticompetitive practices in their app stores but will continue to monitor the companies. The investigations, which began in 2022, aimed to examine Apple's App Store and Google’s Android Play Store for unfair charges and limitations on app developers' choices. The CMA's decision to close the investigations is pending new legislation that is expected later this year. Both companies have made commitments to expand developer choices, but the CMA will review their compliance with new rules once implemented.
9. Which railway zone is expanding the One Station One Product (OSOP) initiative to Howrah station and others?
Eastern Railways is expanding the One Station One Product (OSOP) initiative, allowing local artisans to set up stalls at Howrah and other stations to sell their handmade products. This move aims to support West Bengal's artisans and entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to market and sell their creations. Artisans can register for a 15-day or 30-day period, with the fee covering registration costs plus free electricity for a specific number of units, facilitating their business operations at the station. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote local crafts and support local businesses.
10. How many cocktail drugs have been banned by the central government?
The central government has banned 156 cocktail drugs, many of which are commonly available at home. These banned drugs are used for various purposes, including hair growth, skin care, pain relief, and treating allergies. The ban affects fixed-dose combinations (FDCs), where multiple drugs are combined into a single pill. This list includes drugs that were already discontinued or had limited use. The ban was recommended by the expert committee appointed by the Centre after an examination by the apex panel of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB). This decision was based on the finding that there is no therapeutic justification for these FDCs. The pharmaceutical industry is currently assessing the financial impact of this ban.
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