Daily Current Affairs MCQs : 26 July 2023 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The Ministry of Finance, Government of India (GoI), approved the annual interest rate of 8.15% on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) accounts for the financial year 2022-2023 (FY23). This move was based on the recommendation of the Central Board of Trustees of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). The approved rate of 8.15% is 0.5% higher than the interest rate for the previous financial year 2021-2022 (FY22), which was 8.10%. This decision is expected to benefit over 6 crore subscribers of EPFO, and it will lead to the distribution of over Rs 90,000 crore to EPFO accounts on a total principal amount of approximately Rs 11 trillion during FY23, as compared to Rs 77,424.84 crore and Rs 9.56 trillion, respectively, during FY22.

According to government data, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) added 1.72 million net members during April 2023. This indicates the growth and expansion of the EPFO's subscriber base during that period.

India's first Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) in the field of fisheries will be set up at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) in Kochi, Kerala. The AIC aims to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement in fisheries and related sectors. This initiative will play a crucial role in supporting new businesses in the fisheries industry, fostering partnerships between universities, industries, and the government, and creating job opportunities for start-ups and entrepreneurs in the sector.

Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) received a grant of Rs 10 crore from the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog to set up India's first Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) in the field of fisheries. This financial support from the government will aid in establishing a robust platform for innovation, research, and development in the fisheries sector, contributing to the overall growth and development of the industry.

Radhika Rajasree SR, Professor, and head of the Department of Fish Processing Technology at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) will lead the Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) project. As the principal investigator, she will oversee and guide the development of technologies and solutions for the challenges faced by marine ecosystems and fishing communities. Her expertise and leadership will contribute to the success of the AIC in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in the fisheries industry.

The theme of World Drowning Prevention Day 2023 is "Anyone can drown, no one should." This theme emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to prevent drowning-related incidents, regardless of age, gender, or geographical location. The World Health Organization (WHO) is inviting technical partners to take one action to improve the safety of people in and around water. This global awareness initiative aims to reduce the preventable loss of lives due to drowning and promote water safety practices.

Denmark's Jonas Vingegaard emerged as the winner of the 110th edition of the Tour de France in 2023. Vingegaard's victory in this prestigious cycling race made him the first Dane to achieve this feat. He showcased exceptional cycling skills and endurance throughout the race, particularly during the challenging mountain stages in the Alps. This victory marked a significant milestone in the history of Danish cycling and earned him international recognition as one of the sport's rising stars.

Out of the 20 Victoria Crosses awarded in Italy, the highest number has been won by Indian soldiers from Uttar Pradesh. The Victoria Cross is one of the most prestigious military awards for valor and bravery in the face of the enemy. It is awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces, and the large number of recipients from Uttar Pradesh highlights the courage and dedication displayed by soldiers from this region during various conflicts in Italy.

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) has been appointed as the nodal facilitation agency for handling telecommunication intellectual property rights (IPRs) and patents. C-DoT's primary focus is to promote Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) in digital communication technologies. As a facilitator, C-DoT will support and guide startups, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and research entities in converting their innovations into IPRs and transforming research into commercially viable products. Additionally, C-DoT will encourage Indian IPRs through international collaborations, which will contribute to the growth of India's digital communication sector and its position as a global player in the telecommunications industry.

The HDFC Charity Fund For Cancer Cure is a closed-ended income scheme and a Fixed Maturity Plan (FMP) with a tenure of 1,196 days. This fund was launched by HDFC Asset Management Company (HDFC AMC) in partnership with the Indian Cancer Society (ICS) for the treatment of underprivileged cancer patients. The New Fund Offer (NFO) opened for subscription on July 28, 2023, and closed on August 08, 2023. The investment objective of this fund is to generate regular income by investing in debt and money market instruments and to provide capital appreciation through investments in equity and equity-related instruments. The fund's unique proposition of contributing to cancer cure initiatives makes it an attractive investment option for investors looking to make a positive impact on society while earning potential returns.