1. What is the primary objective of the ‘Support to Students for Participating in Competitions Abroad’ (SSPCA) scheme introduced by AICTE? – Enhancing global competitiveness of Indian students in technical education
The program offers financial aid, mentorship, and logistical support, providing travel grants of up to Rs 2 lakh per student for international scientific competitions.
Eligible students, enrolled in AICTE-approved institutions, can benefit from this scheme, aiming to empower them to represent India effectively on the global stage.
2. Kilkari programme, a Mobile Health (m-health) initiative, recently launched in which states? – Gujarat & Maharashtra
It provides centralized IVR-based mobile health services, offering 72 free, weekly audio messages on pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare to registered women.
Hosted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Kilkari requires no additional investment from states/UTs.
It is integrated with the centralized RCH portal, presently implemented in 18 states/UTs.
International Affairs
Summits/Conferences & Organisations
3. Where will the World Government Summit 2024 be organized – Dubai
The World Government Summit 2024 will be organized in Dubai between 12-14 February.
Heads or representatives of more than 25 countries around the world will participate in this conference.
This year India, Turkey and Qatar have been invited as guest countries.
PM Modi will participate in this conference from India’s side.
This year’s theme is ‘Shaping Future Governments‘.
Environment
4. World Sustainable Development (WSDS) Summit, recently seen in the news, is annually organized by which institute? – The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
‘One Nation One Election’ Committee Chairman Ram Nath Kovind held a consultation meeting with members of Republican Party of India-Athawale (RPI) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in New Delhi.
Awards & Honours
9. Dr. MS Swaminathan will be awarded Bharat Ratna, he was a famous person in which field – Agriculture
The Central Government has honored former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and the father of the Green Revolution Dr. MS Swaminathan.
MS Swaminathan was born on August 7, 1925 in Tamil Nadu.
Dr. Swaminathan served as Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education in the Government of India.
State Current Affairs
10. With whom has the Maharashtra government signed an agreement for the use of AI in areas like health and education – Google