Nation & States _ Paper 1
Which Union Ministry is set to launch the ‘JJM Digital Academy’?
  • Ministry of Jal Shakti
  • Ministry of MSME
  • Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Ministry of Science and Technology
Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti is set to launch the 'JJM Digital Academy.'

This initiative aims to provide training and capacity-building resources to support the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), which focuses on ensuring safe and adequate drinking water supply through individual household tap connections in rural areas. T

he academy will help in enhancing the skills of various stakeholders involved in the mission's implementation.

Which Indian state is conducting a caste-based survey across the state?
  • Madhya Pradesh
  • Bihar
  • Tamil Nadu
  • Kerala
Explanation:

Bihar is conducting a caste-based survey. The survey has resumed following the clearance by the Patna High Court, which dismissed all petitions against the Bihar government's decision.

This survey, costing ₹500 crore and approved by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Cabinet, is aimed at gathering comprehensive socio-economic data across different castes in the state of Bihar.

The National Dental Commission Bill aims to create which institution in place of the Dental Council of India (DCI)?
  • National Dental Commission
  • National Dental Council
  • Indian Dental Commission
  • Indian Dental Council
Explanation: The National Dental Commission Bill aims to create the institution known as the National Dental Commission (option A) in place of the Dental Council of India (DCI). This proposed commission will oversee and regulate dental education and practice in India, replacing the current Dental Council of India.
One Week One Lab programme is organised by which institution in India?
  • CSIR
  • ISRO
  • DRDO
  • BARC
Explanation: The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) recently accomplished its One Week One Lab (OWOL) Programme. This programme was part of the larger "One Week One Lab" initiative by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The OWOL Programme by CSIR-NIScPR aimed to showcase the institute's achievements, ongoing research, and innovations in science communication and policy research. During this week-long event, CSIR-NIScPR highlighted its various projects, initiatives, and contributions to the field of science communication, including the dissemination of scientific knowledge and the formulation of science policies. The programme included various activities such as exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to engage different stakeholders, including scientists, students, policymakers, and the general public. The objective was to foster a better understanding of the role of science communication in society and to promote the importance of science-based policy-making.
Which state approved compensation plan for women victims and survivors of sexual assault and other crimes?
  • Gujarat
  • Manipur
  • Jharkhand
  • Telangana
Explanation:
 

Manipur has approved a compensation plan for women victims and survivors of sexual assault and other crimes. This initiative is designed to provide financial assistance to women who have been affected by such crimes, helping them to recover and rebuild their lives.

The notification issued by the state includes a detailed schedule of injuries and crimes for which compensation will be provided. The amount of compensation varies based on several factors, including the nature of the crime, the severity of the injury, loss of employment, and other related aspects. This structured approach ensures that the compensation is tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each victim, providing a more effective support system.

By implementing this compensation plan, Manipur aims to address the immediate and long-term needs of women victims, offering them the necessary financial support for medical treatment, rehabilitation, legal aid, and other essential expenses. This measure reflects the state's commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and supporting them through their recovery process.

India recently signed ‘Social Security Agreement’ with which country?
  • Sri Lanka
  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • France
Explanation:

India and Argentina recently signed a 'Social Security Agreement (SSA)' aimed at safeguarding the legal rights of professionals working in each other's countries. This agreement is intended to benefit workers and professionals by providing them with social security benefits and protection, ensuring that their rights are maintained while they are employed abroad.

The SSA between India and Argentina will help to eliminate the dual contribution of social security taxes, thereby enabling workers to avoid paying social security contributions in both countries. This arrangement is beneficial for international workers as it simplifies compliance and ensures that they can access social security benefits such as pensions, healthcare, and other social services in both countries.

By signing this agreement, India and Argentina aim to strengthen bilateral relations and promote the mobility of skilled professionals between the two nations, fostering economic cooperation and mutual development.

Which state is the host of the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2023?
  • Uttarakhand
  • Explanation: The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held in Goa from 20 November to 28 November 2023. This year, the Lifetime Achievement Award was named the 'Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award' in recognition of the auteur's legacy. The festival showcased 270 films from various countries, offering a diverse and rich selection of cinematic works to attendees. This event continues to be a significant platform for celebrating global and Indian cinema, providing filmmakers, artists, and audiences with an opportunity to engage with a wide array of films and cinematic discussions.