Home > Practice > Current Affairs > November - 2024 > November 03, 2024
1. When is the GST Compensation Cess scheduled to end?
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Compensation Cess is set to expire in March 2026, as decided by the GST Council. This cess was introduced to compensate states for revenue loss due to the implementation of GST and was extended till March 2026 to repay a ₹2.69 lakh crore loan taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. A Group of Ministers (GoM) has been formed to determine the taxation of luxury, sin, and demerit goods after the cess ends. The expiration of the cess will have implications for taxation and revenue distribution among states.
2. In which state is the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) located?
The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) is situated in the state of Goa, specifically near the Chorla Ghat, bordering Maharashtra and Karnataka. This sanctuary is ecologically significant as it forms part of the Western Ghats, hosting a substantial tiger population and serving as a vital wildlife corridor. Notably, Goa is the only state with its entire portion of the Western Ghats under state protection, highlighting the importance of Mhadei WLS in conservation efforts. The sanctuary is also home to critically endangered Long-billed vultures and has been recommended as a tiger reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972.
3. What is India's ranking in the Global Innovation Index of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2024?
India has made significant progress in innovation, jumping to the 39th position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) of 2024, as reported by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This achievement reflects India's growth in various sectors, including institutions, human capital, research, infrastructure, market sophistication, and business sophistication. The GII ranking is calculated based on two sub-indices: the Innovation Input Index and the Innovation Output Index, covering 132 economies worldwide. India's improvement in the rankings demonstrates its potential as a leader in innovation and technology.
4. When did the Census of India first begin?
The Census of India has a rich history, dating back to 1872 when it was first conducted in various parts of the country. Since then, it has been conducted every 10 years, playing a vital role in shaping public policy and providing essential data for planning and governance. The upcoming Census in 2025 will focus on caste enumeration, electoral delimitation, and the National Population Register (NPR), aiming to enhance understanding of India's social structure and inform policies for social equity. Over the years, the Census has adapted to changing needs, shifting its focus from caste-based categorization to promoting a unified national identity.
5. In which Indian state was the Deepam 2.0 scheme launched to provide free gas cylinders to women?
The Deepam 2.0 scheme was launched by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in Edupuram, Srikakulam, to empower women by providing clean cooking energy and improving living conditions. This initiative builds upon the Deepam 1.0 scheme, which provided LPG connections and subsidies, and offers three free gas cylinders annually. The scheme aims to reduce financial burdens, promote cleaner cooking methods, and enhance the quality of life for women and their families, aligning with Naidu's 'Super 6' election promises focused on women's empowerment.
6. Which policy emphasizes the role of biotechnology in enhancing the economy and creating jobs in India?
The BioE3 Policy, launched as part of India's commitment to innovation in the agriculture sector, focuses on leveraging biotechnology to boost the economy, create employment opportunities, and safeguard the environment. It marks a significant shift towards synthetic production techniques, moving away from traditional manufacturing methods. This policy aims to utilize advanced technologies to foster sustainable solutions that can enhance India's agricultural practices. By promoting biotechnology, the policy aligns with the broader vision of transforming India into a developed nation while improving its global scientific standing in agriculture and food production.
7. Where is the Indian Navy's Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar, Swavlamban – 2024, being held?
The third edition of the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar, Swavlamban – 2024, commenced on October 29, 2024, in New Delhi, at Bharat Mandapam. This seminar aims to foster innovation and indigenisation within the Indian Navy, enhancing defence capabilities through local resources and technology. The event brings together defence forces, private sector companies, and start-ups to showcase niche technologies in areas like surveillance, autonomous systems, AI, and quantum technologies. The participation of numerous agencies and exhibits underscores the importance of Swavlamban 2024 in promoting India's defence self-reliance.
8. When is Vigilance Awareness Week 2024 being observed?
Vigilance Awareness Week 2024 is taking place from October 28 to November 3, with the theme "Culture of Integrity for Nation's Prosperity". This annual observance aims to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability across various sectors. The Central Vigilance Commission is leading the initiative, which includes administering an integrity pledge, conducting training programs, and focusing on key areas such as capacity building, systemic improvement, and digital presence. The week-long event is part of a broader three-month campaign that began on August 16 and will conclude on November 15, 2024.
9. Where was the closing ceremony of the 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 held?
The closing ceremony of the 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 took place at Shaurya Sabhagaar in Ranchi, Jharkhand, on September 30, 2024. This event marked the conclusion of a month-long campaign focused on issues like anaemia, growth monitoring, and complementary feeding, with the aim of promoting holistic nutrition across India. The ceremony featured distinguished guests, including the Governor of Jharkhand, the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, and other officials from the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Jharkhand state government.
10. What is the primary objective of the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme launched by the Indian Government?
The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme is designed to empower Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by equipping them with drones for agricultural use. Part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), this initiative provides 80% financial assistance and training for SHGs, enabling women to offer drone-based services for spraying fertilizers and pesticides, which improves crop yield and efficiency. Targeting 14,500 SHGs, the scheme not only supports agricultural productivity but also creates sustainable income opportunities for women, aligning with the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment in rural areas.
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