Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 29 August 2024 | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing mobility for individuals with disabilities by unveiling solar-powered tricycles. This launch, held during a significant event organized by the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) in Visakhapatnam, marks a major advancement in sustainable and inclusive transportation in India.
What is AMTZ?
The Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ), situated in Visakhapatnam, is a pioneering organization dedicated to advancing medical technology in India. AMTZ collaborates with various partners to develop healthcare solutions that are both inclusive and environmentally sustainable. The organization plays a crucial role in driving innovation that benefits everyone, with a special focus on marginalized and vulnerable communities.
Collaboration with CRC Nagpur
This initiative was developed in collaboration with the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) in Nagpur, an institution committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities. The CRC provides a range of assistive technologies—tools and devices designed to make everyday tasks more manageable for those with physical challenges. This partnership underscores the importance of creating technologies that enhance accessibility and independence for individuals with disabilities.
The Solar-Powered Tricycles
The newly launched tricycles are powered by solar energy, harnessing the power of the sun to operate. This innovation represents an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vehicles that rely on fossil fuels, which are harmful to the environment. By using solar energy, these tricycles offer a clean, sustainable mode of transportation that reduces carbon emissions while providing a practical solution for mobility.
These tricycles are designed with affordability and functionality in mind, aiming to empower users by giving them greater freedom and mobility. The use of solar power not only cuts down on fuel costs but also ensures that the tricycles are a viable option for long-term use, particularly in regions with abundant sunlight like India.

Benefits of the Initiative
The launch of these solar-powered tricycles is significant for several reasons:

• Promoting Sustainable Transportation: By offering a green alternative to conventional vehicles, this initiative contributes to reducing the environmental impact of transportation, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
• Enhancing Accessibility: The tricycles are specifically designed to cater to the needs of people with disabilities, improving their ability to move around independently. This is a critical step towards ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities and freedoms as others in society.
• Fostering Inclusivity: The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to “inclusive innovation,” a concept emphasized by Nitin Gadkari during the launch. Inclusive innovation focuses on creating technologies that benefit everyone, particularly those who are often overlooked or marginalized.

Dr. Jitendra Sharma, representing AMTZ, highlighted the transformative potential of these tricycles, noting how they can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by enhancing their mobility and accessibility.

A Vision for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future
The introduction of solar-powered tricycles is a testament to India’s growing capability to leverage technology for social good. It embodies a vision of a society where technological advancements are used to create inclusive solutions that benefit all, especially those with the greatest need.
This initiative not only underscores the importance of sustainable practices in transportation but also reinforces the commitment to creating a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of physical ability, has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and independent life.
[Excerpt from ebnw.net "Nitin Gadkari Launches Solar-Powered Tricycles for Disabled Individuals" Dated 29/08/24]

Q1: What recent initiative was unveiled by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari during an event held by AMTZ?
(a) Solar-powered buses
(b) Solar-powered tricycles
(c) Electric scooters
(d) Battery-powered wheelchairs

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Q2: Where is the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) located?
(a) Hyderabad
(b) Vijayawada
(c) Visakhapatnam
(d) Tirupati

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Q3: What is the primary focus of the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) in Nagpur, which collaborated with AMTZ for this event?
(a) Promoting solar energy
(b) Providing assistive technologies for people with disabilities
(c) Advancing medical research
(d) Manufacturing eco-friendly vehicles

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Q4: What is the main environmental benefit of the solar-powered tricycles unveiled by Nitin Gadkari?
(a) They are made from recycled materials
(b) They do not emit harmful gases
(c) They reduce water pollution
(d) They conserve electricity

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Q5: What key value does this initiative of launching solar-powered tricycles promote?
(a) Innovation in automotive design
(b) Sustainable and inclusive transportation
(c) Advancement in battery technology
(d) Enhanced public transportation

Ans: (b) Sustainable and inclusive transportation
Sol: The initiative promotes sustainable and inclusive transportation, benefiting individuals with disabilities.