Home > Practice > Current Affairs > August - 2024 > August 25, 2024
1. In which state has the Subhadra scheme been launched to provide financial assistance to women?
The Subhadra scheme, launched by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, aims to provide financial assistance to one crore women in the state. The scheme promises ₹50,000 to women aged 21 to 60 over five years, with a total budget allocation of ₹55,825 crore. The funds will be disbursed in annual instalments of ₹10,000, divided into two payments, and will be directly credited to beneficiaries' Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts. This initiative is a significant step towards empowering women in Odisha.
2. Which Indian Navy ship is set to visit Colombo for three days, marking its first visit to Sri Lanka?
INS Mumbai, an Indian Navy ship, is scheduled for a three-day visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka. This visit is significant as it marks INS Mumbai's first-ever visit to Sri Lanka and represents the eighth visit by an Indian Navy ship to the country this year. During the visit, INS Mumbai will deliver spare parts for the Sri Lanka Air Force's Dornier maritime patrol aircraft and participate in various joint activities. The ship will also replenish its fuel and provisions, and the crew will have the opportunity to visit local sites in Colombo and Galle.
3. Which bank has partnered with Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd (TPSSL) to provide financing for solar units to residential and corporate customers?
Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd (TPSSL) has entered into a strategic partnership with ICICI Bank to offer financing solutions for solar units to both residential and corporate customers. Through this collaboration, customers can access loans up to ₹90 lakh, with options for collateral-free loans and flexible repayment tenures of up to 5 years. Additionally, customers seeking higher loan amounts with collateral can benefit from extended tenures of up to 20 years. This initiative is part of TPSSL's efforts to make solar energy more accessible and affordable.
4. Which country does Alister Yoong, the winner of the first race in the Indian Racing League, represent?
Alister Yoong, a talented Malaysian racer, clinched victory in the inaugural race of the Indian Racing League, driving for the Bengal Tigers at Chennai. This win marks his first international motorsport triumph, where he showcased his exceptional driving skills. Competing against strong international competition, Yoong's performance from pole position demonstrated his potential in the global racing arena. This event highlighted Malaysia's presence in India's emerging motorsport scene, alongside other international racers like Australian driver Hugh Barter.
5. Which airline is considering introducing the gender-neutral honorific ‘Mx’ for its internal candidates to promote inclusivity?
IndiGo, a leading Indian airline with a significant 62% domestic market share, is evaluating the introduction of the gender-neutral honorific 'Mx' for its internal candidates. This initiative is part of IndiGo's broader strategy to promote inclusivity and diversity within the company. Alongside this, IndiGo is focused on increasing the number of disabled employees in customer-facing roles and partnering with agencies that specialize in LGBTQ+ recruitment. These efforts underline the airline's commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace environment.
6. What policy has the Union Cabinet approved to enhance R&D, entrepreneurship, and job creation in biomanufacturing?
The Union Cabinet has approved the BioE3 Policy, which is designed to strengthen research and development, entrepreneurship, and job creation within the advanced biomanufacturing sector. This policy aims to establish Bio-AI hubs and Biofoundries, aligning with India's broader objectives of achieving a 'Net Zero' carbon economy and promoting 'Green Growth.' By fostering a circular bioeconomy and encouraging sustainable practices, the BioE3 Policy is a significant step towards India's commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2070.
7. Which team has qualified for the 2026 Asian Games for the first time, securing one quota each for Men and Women?
The Indian Surfing Team has made history by qualifying for the 2026 Asian Games for the first time, earning one quota each for both Men and Women. This achievement was the result of ranking points accumulated in the 2024 Asian Surfing events. The Surfing Federation of India President, Arun Vasu, highlighted the dedication and hard work of the surfers, coaches, and the federation, which played a crucial role in securing this milestone for Indian sports.
8. Who won the Dutch Grand Prix, marking his second career victory and first in Formula One?
Lando Norris secured a commanding win at the Dutch Grand Prix, marking his second career victory and his first in Formula One. Despite Red Bull's Max Verstappen's strong performance, Norris's McLaren showcased superior pace and strategy, overcoming initial struggles at the start to dominate throughout the race. This victory narrowed Verstappen's championship lead and boosted McLaren's position in the standings, with Verstappen admitting he could never match Norris's pace.
9. Which bank recently launched the Avni savings account specifically for women, along with a new loyalty program?
Bandhan Bank introduced the Avni savings account for women on August 22, 2024, coinciding with its Foundation Day. The Avni account is tailored for well-off women and requires a minimum average quarterly balance of ₹25,000. It offers exclusive benefits such as a debit card with free airport lounge access, personal accident insurance coverage, and discounts on various services. The launch also included the Bandhan Bank Delights loyalty program, which rewards customers with Delight Points for banking activities, redeemable for various rewards.
10. In which state did the Prime Minister award certificates to 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis?
The Prime Minister recognized the achievements of 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis in Maharashtra, awarding them certificates for their annual earnings of over ₹1 lakh. This initiative aims to empower women and promote financial independence. Additionally, the Prime Minister launched a Community Investment Fund and bank loans to further support Self-Help Group (SHG) members, demonstrating the government's commitment to women's economic empowerment.
Previous