Nation & States _ Paper 1
Recently, which airport became the 14th airport in India to launch the Digi Yatra system?
  • Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, Bihar
  • Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh
  • Manohar International Airport, Goa
  • Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: The Manohar International Airport in Mopa, Goa, has recently become the 14th airport in India to launch the Digi Yatra system. Digi Yatra is a digital processing system for air travelers, which aims to enhance passenger experience by leveraging biometric technology for seamless and paperless travel. Here’s a brief overview of how the Digi Yatra system works: Biometric Authentication: Passengers register their travel details and biometric information through a dedicated app. This information is securely stored and used to authenticate the passenger at various checkpoints. Seamless Entry and Exit: Using facial recognition technology, passengers can move through different stages of their journey, such as entry to the airport, security checks, and boarding the aircraft, without having to show physical tickets or identification documents repeatedly. Improved Efficiency: The system aims to reduce the time taken for various processes, making the travel experience faster and more efficient. It also helps in managing passenger flow and reducing congestion at the airport. The implementation of the Digi Yatra system at the Manohar International Airport is part of a larger initiative to modernize airports across India and provide a smoother, more convenient travel experience for passengers.
Operation Kamdhenu, recently seen in the news, is launched by which state/UT to curb cattle smuggling?
  • Jammu & Kashmir
  • Delhi
  • Tamil Nadu
  • Kerala
Explanation: Operation Kamdhenu is an initiative launched by the Jammu and Kashmir police to curb cattle smuggling in the regions of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua (JSK) police ranges. This operation is part of a broader effort to prevent illegal transportation and trade of cattle, ensuring that such activities are monitored and controlled effectively. The operation aims to: Strengthen Enforcement: Increase vigilance and patrolling along the borders and highways to intercept and prevent cattle smuggling activities. Collaboration: Coordinate with various law enforcement agencies and departments to share intelligence and resources for a more effective crackdown on smuggling operations. Legal Action: Take strict legal action against those involved in cattle smuggling to deter such activities in the future. Community Awareness: Raise awareness among local communities about the legal aspects and implications of cattle smuggling, encouraging them to report suspicious activities to authorities. By implementing Operation Kamdhenu, the Jammu and Kashmir police aim to protect cattle, uphold the law, and maintain order in the region.
Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee, recently seen in the news, is related to which one of the following reforms?
  • Agricultural Reforms
  • Tax Reforms
  • Educational Reforms
  • Banking Reforms
Explanation: The Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee's recommendations have been influential in shaping reforms related to the accreditation system of higher education institutions. These reforms aim to improve the quality and standards of education by establishing more robust and effective accreditation processes.
How many Padma awards were approved by the President for conferment on the eve of 75th Republic Day?
  • 132
  • 130
  • 150
  • 135
Explanation: For the year 2024, the President of India approved the conferment of a total of 132 Padma Awards. This includes: Padma Vibhushan: 5 awards Padma Bhushan: 17 awards Padma Shri: 110 awards Additionally, there are 2 duo cases, where an award is counted as one for a pair of individuals. These are counted as a single award even though they involve two recipients. This brings the total number of Padma Awards approved to 132.
Which ministry has recently launched the National Geoscience Data Repository Portal?
  • Ministry of Earth Sciences
  • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
  • Ministry of Mines
  • Ministry of Science and Technology
Explanation: The Ministry of Mines launched the National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR) Portal on December 19, 2023, in New Delhi. This portal aims to provide a centralized platform for accessing and managing geoscience data, promoting transparency and efficiency in the mining sector.
Which state signed MoU with Uber to launch bus service called “Uber Shuttle”?
  • Tamil Nadu
  • West Bengal
  • Odisha
  • Goa
Explanation: The West Bengal government and Uber signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the “Uber Shuttle” service in Kolkata during the Bengal Global Business Summit 2023. The service is scheduled to begin by March 2024. Here are the key points of the MoU: Service Launch: Uber Shuttle aims to offer technology-optimized mobility solutions for daily commuters in Kolkata. Investment: Uber has committed to investing $10 million in West Bengal by 2025, which will support the development and expansion of the shuttle service and potentially other related initiatives. Technology Integration: The service will use Uber’s technology to optimize bus routes and schedules, improving the efficiency and convenience of public transportation in Kolkata. This initiative represents a significant investment in the region’s transportation infrastructure and reflects Uber’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility through innovative solutions.
‘TOT’ Model, which is seen in the news, is associated with which field?
  • Finance
  • Explanation:

    The TOT (Toll-Operate-Transfer) model is associated with the infrastructure sector, specifically in the context of highways. It is used to encourage private sector participation in the management and development of national highways. Under this model: Toll Collection: Private entities are given the right to collect tolls on certain highway segments. Operation and Maintenance: The private sector is responsible for the operation and maintenance of these segments. Transfer: After a specified period, the ownership and operational control of these highway segments are transferred back to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) or the government. The TOT model helps in leveraging private investment and expertise to improve highway infrastructure while ensuring that the quality and maintenance standards are upheld.

    The TOT (Toll-Operate-Transfer) model involves awarding contracts for toll collection, operation, and maintenance of national highway segments to private entities. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) recently awarded two TOT bundles, 11 and 12, covering 400 km of highway for a total of Rs 6,584 crore. This model is aimed at enhancing private sector involvement in highway infrastructure, improving efficiency, and leveraging private investment for better maintenance and operation of national highways.