Daily Current Affairs Quiz: 23rd May 2024

Answer: B) Manchester City

Notes:

Manchester City has been crowned the 2023/24 Premier League champions, achieving a remarkable feat by becoming the first men’s team in the history of English football to win four top-flight titles in a row. Their latest success was sealed with a 3-1 final-day victory over West Ham United, thanks to goals from Phil Foden (2) and Rodrigo. Captain Kyle Walker lifted the trophy at the Etihad Stadium in front of a sell-out crowd. This victory represents City’s tenth top-flight league title and continues Pep Guardiola’s remarkable record since taking charge of the team in 2016. Manchester City now has an opportunity to achieve another historic milestone by winning back-to-back Premier League and FA Cup Doubles when they face Manchester United in the FA Cup final at Wembley on May 25. Walker expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, emphasizing the collective effort that made this achievement possible. Winning four consecutive Premier League titles is indeed a remarkable feat and a fitting tribute to Manchester City’s fantastic supporters.

Answer: C) Australia and Uzbekistan

Notes:

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be hosted by Australia in 2026 and Uzbekistan in 2029. Here are the key points:

1. Australia (2026):
   • Australia, having co-hosted the best-ever edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in the past, will host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the second time in history.
   • The tournament will serve as the final stage of Asian qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
   • The passion for women’s football in Australia is palpable, promising a vibrant and competitive edition in 2026.
2. Uzbekistan (2029):
   • Uzbekistan will become the first Central Asian nation to organize the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
   • Despite never having hosted a major women’s football tournament before, Uzbekistan aims to surpass all expectations.
   • The country’s commitment to elevating women’s football in Asia is commendable.

These two nations will play a crucial role in advancing women’s football in the region, and their efforts deserve recognition and support.

Answer: A) INS Delhi, INS Shakti, INS Kiltan

Notes:

Indian Naval Ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan have successfully completed their visit to Manila, Philippines as part of the Operational Deployment of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea. Here are the key points:

1. Strong Ties with the Philippines:
   • The visit demonstrated India’s strong diplomatic and defense ties with the Philippines.
   • Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) took place between the Indian Navy and personnel of the Philippines Navy.
   • Sports fixtures, cross-deck visits, cultural exchanges, and collaborative community outreach programs enhanced cooperation.
2. High-Level Interactions:
   • R Adm Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and Commanding Officers of the ships interacted with R Adm Renato David (Commander of Philippine Fleet) and V Adm Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr (Deputy Commandant for Operations, Philippine Coast Guard).
   • Wide-ranging discussions with Vice Adm Toribio Dulinayan Adaci JT, the Flag Officer in Command (FOIC), covered avenues for collaboration, mutual interests, and the current security situation in the region.
3. India’s Commitment to Peace and Stability:
   • The port call reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
   • It aligns with India’s ‘Act East’ and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.
   • Tensions in the South China Sea, particularly around the Scarborough Shoal, underscore the importance of such engagements.
4. Background on Scarborough Shoal:
   • The Scarborough Shoal, located approximately 220 kilometers off the coast of the Philippines, falls within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
   • China claims almost the entire South China Sea, rejecting claims from other nations, including the Philippines.
   • An international ruling has stated that these claims have no legal basis under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
5. Historical Relations:
   • India and the Philippines formally established diplomatic relations in November 1949, shortly after both countries gained independence.

Answer: B) Spain

Notes:

Spain has become the 99th member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). During a meeting in New Delhi, Spain’s Ambassador to India, Jose Maria Ridao Domkinguez, handed over the ISA Instrument of Ratification to Abhishek Singh, the Head of Depository from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The ISA, jointly launched by India and France during COP21 in Paris, aims to contribute to the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement through the rapid and massive deployment of solar energy. Spain’s membership underscores the global commitment to combat climate change and enhance energy access and security through sustainable energy sources.

Answer: B) South China Sea

Notes:

Scarborough Shoal, a hotly contested maritime feature, has recently made headlines in the South China Sea. Here are the key points:

1. Floating Barrier Discovered:
   • Satellite images captured by Maxar Technologies on February 22, 2024, reveal a new floating barrier across the entrance of Scarborough Shoal.
   • The barrier is strategically placed near where Philippine ships and China coast guard vessels have frequently encountered each other.
2. Legal Context:
   • China claims Scarborough Shoal, although it lies within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
   • An international arbitration tribunal in The Hague ruled in 2016 that China’s claims had no legal basis, a decision Beijing rejected.
3. Tensions and Sovereignty:
   • The atoll remains one of Asia’s most contested features, sparking diplomatic tensions over sovereignty and fishing rights.
   • China’s deployment of the floating barrier adds to the ongoing dispute.
4. Philippine Response:
   • The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that Chinese coast guard inflatable boats placed the barrier at the shoal’s entrance.
   • The Philippines maintains that its activities in the area are lawful and refutes China’s claims of illegal intrusion.
5. Strategic Importance:
   • Scarborough Shoal’s location makes it a flashpoint for regional tensions, impacting maritime security and stability.

Answer: A) Salim Purushothaman

Notes:

Salim G Purushothaman has been selected as the Director (Operations) of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB). His appointment was recommended during a PESB meeting held on May 21, 2024. Currently serving as the Executive Director at Braithwaite & Co. Ltd., Salim G Purushothaman will assume the crucial role of overseeing RINL’s operational activities. His appointment awaits vigilance clearances and approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.

Answer: D) Jyoti Ratre

Notes:

Jyoti Ratre, an entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast hailing from Madhya Pradesh, has etched her name in history by becoming the oldest Indian woman to summit Mount Everest. At the age of 55, Ratre achieved this remarkable feat on May 19, reaching the summit at 6:30 am. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue our dreams, even when faced with challenges. Despite being rejected from mountaineering training institutes due to her age, Jyoti Ratre’s determination and passion led her to conquer the world’s highest peak.

Ratre’s childhood dream of seeing Mount Everest was fueled by a radio broadcast about a leader expressing a wish to release ashes in the Himalayas. However, marriage, family responsibilities, and business commitments delayed her pursuit. At 48, she decided to relive her dream and began mountain climbing. Despite facing challenges, including age restrictions, she persevered. Her achievements include scaling Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, and Mount Aconcagua in South America. In 2023, she attempted Everest but had to return due to adverse weather conditions when she was just 650 meters away from the peak. Now, as the oldest Indian woman to conquer Everest, Jyoti Ratre’s story inspires us all to chase our aspirations, regardless of age or obstacles.

Answer: A) NTPC

Notes:

India’s biggest energy company, NTPC Limited, won third place at the ATD BEST Awards 2024, making it the best-performing Indian company in this prestigious foreign event. Ms. Rachana Singh Bhal, CGM (Strategic HR & Talent Management), received the award on May 21, 2024, at a ceremony in New Orleans, USA. The Association for Talent Development (ATD), based in the USA, gives out the ATD BEST Awards, which are renowned worldwide for recognizing outstanding work in Learning and Development (L&D). NTPC’s consistent excellence in HR practices and its strategic focus on learning and development have led to this remarkable achievement. Notably, NTPC has been honoured with the ATD BEST Awards seven times in the last eight years, demonstrating its commitment to HR best practices. As the only Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) from India to receive this award, NTPC continues to set high standards in employee development and business success.

Answer: C) Palestine

Notes:

In May 2024, Ireland, Spain, and Norway made a significant decision by formally recognizing Palestine as a state. Here are the key points:

1. Recognition of Palestinian Statehood:
   • These three European countries took this step to support Palestinian aspirations.
   • The recognition aims to contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East.
2. Historic Move:
   • It marks the first time a Western European country has committed to recognizing Palestine as a state.
   • The decision comes despite Israel’s warnings about potential consequences.
3. Two-State Solution:
   • The leaders emphasized the importance of a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.
   • They envision two states living side by side, fostering peace and security.
4. Pressure on Israel:
   • This recognition could encourage other EU countries to follow suit.
   • It also increases pressure on Israel to engage in peace negotiations.
5. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza:
   • Amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, this move holds significance.
   • The hope is that more countries will join this path to strengthen efforts toward a ceasefire and lasting peace.

Answer: B) Guar Gum Private Limited

Notes:

B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited, a pioneer in the cotton seed industry, has achieved a momentous feat by clinching the esteemed Most Trusted Cotton Seed Brand in North India Award at the prestigious Global Excellence Awards 2024 (GEA). Held on the 12th of May 2024 in the vibrant city of Mumbai, the event was orchestrated by Brand Empower, a leading Market Research company. The presence of Shilpa Shetty Kundra as the Chief Guest added an air of elegance and sophistication to the occasion, elevating the significance of the awards ceremony. At the heart of the recognition bestowed upon B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited lies a legacy of unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction. Their relentless pursuit of excellence in the cotton seed industry has cemented their reputation as a trusted and reliable brand in North India. The Most Trusted Cotton Seed Brand in North India Award serves as a testament to their dedication to upholding the highest standards of reliability and trustworthiness, setting them apart as a beacon of excellence in the region. Stepping onto the stage to accept the prestigious accolade was Sumit Kedia, the esteemed Business Director of B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited. Sumit Kedia expressed his gratitude for the honor, underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to customer-centricity and quality excellence. He remarked, “At B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited, we are driven by a singular mission – to deliver superior quality products and exceed customer expectations. This award is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence and our steadfast dedication to serving the needs of our customers.” Established with a vision to revolutionize the cotton seed industry, B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited has emerged as a trailblazer in North India. Their diverse portfolio of high-quality cotton seed products, coupled with their commitment to innovation and sustainability, has positioned them as a frontrunner in the market.

Answer: A) Preetismita Bhoi

Notes:

Preetismita Bhoi, a talented Indian weightlifter from Odisha, achieved a remarkable feat by winning gold in the Women’s 40kg Clean & Jerk category at the 2024 IWF World Youth Championships held in Lima, Peru. Her victory was even more impressive as she smashed the youth clean and jerk world record, lifting 57kg in the snatch for a total effort of 133kg. This outstanding performance not only secured her the gold medal but also brought her within 2kg of the youth world standard. In a fantastic 1-2 finish for India, Jyoshna Sabar clinched the silver with a total effort of 125kg. The competition showcased India’s rising talent and commitment to excellence in weightlifting.

Answer: C) Ramesh Babu V

Notes:

Ramesh Babu V. has taken the oath of office and secrecy as a Member of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC). His swearing-in ceremony occurred on May 21, 2024, and the oath was administered by the Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, R. K. Singh. Ramesh Babu V. holds an M.Tech degree in Thermal Engineering and a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to his appointment at CERC, he served as the Director (Operations) at NTPC, where he was employed from May 2020 until his retirement. The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission plays a crucial role in regulating tariffs, inter-state transmission, and promoting efficiency and investment in the electricity sector.

Answer: D) Election Process

Notes:

Form 17C is a crucial document in the electoral process, and its recent prominence has sparked discussions. Here’s what you need to know:

1. What Is Form 17C?
   • Form 17C is a comprehensive voting record maintained nationwide.
   • It contains essential information related to elections, including:
     • Number of voters assigned to each polling place.
     • Total registered voters in a specific area.
     • Votes cast and those not cast.
     • Details about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), ballots, and paper seals.
     • Names of candidates and their total votes received.
2. Role in Elections:
   • Form 17C plays a crucial role during elections:
     • It ensures transparency by recording votes at each polling booth.
     • The presiding officer generates a report (Part-I) for each polling agent.
     • Candidates or their representatives sign Part II, filled out by the counting station supervisor.
     • It helps verify results on the counting day.
3. Controversy and Transparency:
   • Opposition leaders and activists have criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) for delays in disclosing final voter turnout statistics.
   • The ECI’s decision not to post Form 17C on its official website has raised concerns.
   • The Supreme Court has urged the ECI to publish data on votes polled and scanned copies of Form 17C.
4. Legal Significance:
   • Form 17C data are considered final and can be used in legal challenges to poll results.
   • Candidates rely on this data for result verification during the counting process.

In summary, Form 17C is more than just numbers; it represents the integrity and transparency of our democratic process.

Answer: A) Kaamya Karthikeyan

Notes:

Kaamya Karthikeyan, a remarkable 16-year-old girl from Mumbai, achieved a historic feat by becoming the youngest Indian mountaineer to scale Mount Everest from the Nepal side. Accompanied by her father, Cdr S Karthikeyan, she embarked on their expedition on April 3, and they successfully reached the peak on May 20. Kaamya’s courage and determination have also led her to conquer the highest peaks in six continents. Her next challenge is to scale Mount Vinson Massif in Antarctica in December, aiming to accomplish the coveted ‘7 Summits challenge.’ Earlier, in 2020, she became the youngest girl in the world to climb Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America and outside of Asia. The Indian Navy commended her remarkable achievements and wished her the best in her pursuit of summiting the highest peaks globally.

Answer: C) Gandhinagar

Notes:

The FABEXA Fabric Sourcing Expo 2024 is scheduled to take place at the Helipad Ground in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, from May 21st to 24th, 2024. This textile exhibition promises to be a hub of ideas, trends, and cutting-edge technology for the fabric industry. Organized by the esteemed Maskati Cloth Market Association, FABEXA showcases the best of the textile industry, drawing upon the rich heritage and innovation synonymous with the vibrant textile hub of Gujarat. It serves as the epicentre for textile events and exhibitions, providing a platform for buyers worldwide to converge and forecast their business strategies.