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1. Which Indian state, after Rajasthan, has introduced legislation specifically for Gig Workers?
Karnataka has introduced the Karnataka Platform-based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill to regulate social security and welfare for platform-based gig workers, making it the second state after Rajasthan to do so. This bill aims to establish a Welfare Board, grievance redressal mechanisms, and mandates for aggregators to ensure timely payments and safe working conditions for gig workers. It seeks to provide a structured framework for the gig economy, addressing issues such as contractual rights, social security schemes, and penalties for non-compliance.
2. With whom did Aadhar Housing Finance Limited (AHFL) partner to expand housing loans for low-income women in India?
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) partnered with Aadhar Housing Finance Limited (AHFL) through a $60 million financing agreement aimed at providing housing loans to low-income women in India. This initiative addresses the financing gap in affordable housing and promotes financial inclusion, particularly in states like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. ADB's support underscores its commitment to inclusive and sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific region, focusing on critical sectors such as housing and infrastructure.
3. What is the name of the indigenous light tank recently unveiled by India?
India recently unveiled the 'Zorawar' light tank, developed in collaboration with DRDO and Larsen & Toubro. Named after General Zorawar Singh, the tank is designed for high-altitude operations and features advanced weaponry and protection systems. It marks a significant advancement in India's defence capabilities, particularly aimed at enhancing military presence in challenging terrains like Ladakh, Sikkim, or Kashmir, following strategic requirements highlighted during recent geopolitical tensions.
4. In India, up to what age are working children classified as child labour?
In India, children up to 14 years of age are considered child labour according to regulations aimed at protecting their rights and ensuring their welfare. The declaration of Jharkhand's mica mines as 'child labour-free' by NCPCR underscores efforts to eliminate underage labour from hazardous industries like mining, where children were historically involved in collecting mica.
5. Which country recently joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as its 10th member?
Belarus has recently become the 10th member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), as confirmed during the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO. This expansion highlights the organization's increasing influence and appeal across Eurasia, originally established in Shanghai in 2001 and headquartered in Beijing, China.
6. What is the name of the project launched by the Ministry of Culture to showcase India's artistic heritage through public art installations?
Project PARI (Public Art of India), initiated by the Ministry of Culture, focuses on exhibiting the rich artistic heritage of India through various forms of public art installations. This project, involving over 150 visual artists, integrates traditional Indian art forms with contemporary themes, aiming to enrich urban landscapes and promote cultural inclusivity. The initiative underscores India's commitment to preserving and promoting its diverse cultural heritage on a global platform, particularly showcased during significant events like the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting.
7. Which bank is planning to raise ₹7,500 crore through Additional Tier 1 (AT1) and Tier II bonds?
Bank of Baroda (BoB) intends to raise ₹7,500 crore through Additional Tier-I (AT1) and Tier-II bonds by March 2025. This capital-raising initiative is aimed at fulfilling regulatory capital requirements and supporting the bank's growth objectives. BoB's strategy includes issuing these bonds in multiple tranches, potentially including the overseas market based on favourable market conditions, as approved by its board of directors.
8. Which organization has shortlisted astronauts for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS)?
ISRO, the Indian Space Research Organisation, has shortlisted two of its four trained Gaganyaan astronauts to participate in the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This private spaceflight mission, operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA, aims to advance commercial activities in space and conduct various scientific experiments in microgravity. The mission is scheduled for 2024 and will utilize a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket, highlighting ISRO's involvement in international space collaborations.
9. What is the main objective of the 'Mitra Van' initiative launched by the Uttar Pradesh government?
The 'Mitra Van' initiative aims to plant 35 crore saplings across 35 districts, including those along the Uttar Pradesh and Nepal border, as part of the Vriksharopan Jan Abhiyan-2024. This initiative focuses on increasing green cover and promoting environmental sustainability in the region.
10. When is World Kiswahili Language Day celebrated annually?
World Kiswahili Language Day is celebrated annually on July 7th. This date was designated by UNESCO to honour the cultural and linguistic significance of Kiswahili, also known as Swahili. The theme for this day in 2024 is "Kiswahili: Education and Culture of Peace," underscoring its role in promoting harmony across diverse cultures. The celebration typically includes events at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris and around the world, highlighting Kiswahili's widespread usage as a lingua franca in Africa and its contributions to global cultural diversity and dialogue.
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