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1. Which institution is spearheading BharatGen, India’s first government-funded multimodal AI initiative?
BharatGen, launched on September 30, 2024, is India's pioneering government-funded multimodal AI initiative aimed at developing generative AI systems in various Indian languages. This initiative is led by IIT Bombay, which focuses on promoting social equity and cultural preservation. The program seeks to enhance public service delivery and citizen engagement through foundational models in language, speech, and computer vision. The TIH Foundation for IoT and IOE at IIT Bombay is implementing the project, with support from other esteemed institutions like IIT Hyderabad and IIM Indore, positioning India as a leader in generative AI.
2. From which city was the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ launched to enhance cruise tourism in India?
The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ was launched from Mumbai on October 1, 2024, by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. This initiative aims to transform India into a global cruise tourism hub, with a target of doubling cruise passenger traffic by 2029. The mission emphasizes three key segments: ocean and harbour, river, inland, and island cruises. It will be implemented in three phases, focusing initially on studies, master planning, and modernization of existing cruise facilities. This mission is expected to significantly enhance the cruise sector in India and attract more international tourists.
3. Which country is participating with India in the 8th Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024?
The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024 is taking place in Uttarakhand, India. The exercise involves 120 personnel from the Indian Army’s KUMAON Regiment, alongside their Kazakh counterparts. This joint military exercise aims to enhance the cooperation and skills of both nations' forces, particularly focusing on counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains. The exercise underscores the strategic defence partnership between India and Kazakhstan.
4. Who was appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of IL&FS Group in October 2024?
Nand Kishore has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of IL&FS Group, effective October 1, 2024. Before this role, he served as the company's Managing Director. His appointment comes after the completion of CS Rajan’s six-year term, during which IL&FS successfully resolved a significant portion of its financial issues, managing to achieve a debt resolution amounting to ₹55,000 crores.
5. When is World Vegetarian Day celebrated?
World Vegetarian Day is celebrated on October 1 each year. Initiated by the North American Vegetarian Society in 1977 and later endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union in 1978, the day aims to promote the advantages of a vegetarian diet and raise awareness of plant-based nutrition. It also marks the start of Vegetarian Awareness Month, which runs throughout October, highlighting the environmental, health, and ethical benefits of reducing or eliminating animal products from diets.
6. Which company has launched India's largest renewable energy procurement tender for its Green Ammonia project?
Hygenco Green Energies has made a significant move in India's renewable energy sector by launching a massive 1.1 GW procurement tender for its Green Ammonia project. This tender invites bids for 625 MW from solar PV projects and 500 MW from wind power, showcasing Hygenco's commitment to sustainability. Notably, Hygenco has already commissioned India's first Green Hydrogen project in Hisar, demonstrating its pioneering efforts in the field ¹ ² ³ ⁴. This initiative will contribute to India's transition toward a low-carbon economy and support the National Green Hydrogen Mission's goal of making India a Green Hydrogen Hub by 2030.
7. Which Indian bank has launched a co-branded credit card with Singapore Airlines?
The State Bank of India (SBI) has partnered with Singapore Airlines to introduce the KrisFlyer SBI Card, a co-branded credit card designed for frequent travellers. The card is available in two variants: KrisFlyer SBI Card and KrisFlyer SBI Card Apex. Cardholders can earn KrisFlyer miles, with the base variant offering 3,000 miles and the Apex variant offering 10,000 miles. The partnership aims to provide customers with rewarding travel experiences and enhanced benefits. This collaboration strengthens SBI's presence in the Indian credit card market and expands its portfolio of co-branded offerings.
8. When will India celebrate the International Day of Older Persons in 2024?
India will celebrate the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2024, as part of a month-long series of events focusing on the welfare of senior citizens. This day aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by older adults and promote care systems to support them. The theme for this year, "Ageing with Dignity," highlights the importance of enhancing care for older persons globally. The main event will be presided over by Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar in New Delhi.
9. Who became the fastest cricketer to reach 27,000 international runs, breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record?
Virat Kohli achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the fastest cricketer to reach 27,000 international runs, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record. Kohli accomplished this feat in his 594th innings, 29 innings faster than Tendulkar, who reached the mark in 623 innings. This achievement solidifies Kohli's position among the all-time greats, joining an exclusive club that includes Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Kumar Sangakkara. With 27,012 international runs, Kohli's impressive record consists of 8,870 runs in Tests, 13,906 runs in ODIs, and 4,188 runs in T20Is.
10. Which Indian state government has partnered with The/Nudge Institute for livelihood development?
The Meghalaya Government has collaborated with The/Nudge Institute to support 50,000 vulnerable households, prioritizing single mothers and social inclusion. This initiative provides livelihood coaching and social protection frameworks, utilizing technology-based monitoring tools. The partnership aims to promote resilient livelihoods and was announced at the North-East Conclave in Shillong on September 27, 2024. The/Nudge Institute works towards a poverty-free India by partnering with governments, markets, and civil society to build sustainable livelihoods.
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