General Knowled...

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
India-European Free Trade Association signeda Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) today i.e. on 10th March 2024.
India has been working on a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway &Liechtenstein. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Hon ’ble Prime Minister has approved signing of the TEPA with EFTA States. EFTA is an inter-governmental organization set up in 1960 for the promotion of free trade and economic integration for the benefit of its four Member States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Food and Consumer Affairs and Textiles said:
"TEPA is a modern and ambitious Trade Agreement. For the first time, India is signing FTA with four developed nations - an important economic bloc in Europe. For the first time in history of FTAs, binding commitment of $100 bn investment  and 1 million direct jobs in the next 15 years has been given. The agreement will give a boost to Make in India and provide opportunities to young &talented workforce. The FTA will provide a window to Indian exporters to access large European and global markets."
The agreement comprises of 14 chapters with main focus on market access related to goods, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade remedies, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment promotion, market access on services, intellectual property rights, trade and sustainable development and other legal and horizontal provisions.
EFTA is an important regional group, with several growing opportunities for enhancing international trade in goods and services.EFTA is one important economic block out of the three (other two - EU &UK) in Europe. Among EFTA countries, Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.
The highlights of the agreement are:

• EFTA has committed to promote investments with the aim to increase the stock of foreign direct investments by USD 100 billion in India in the next 15 years, and to facilitate the generation of 1 million direct employment in India, through such investments. The investments do not cover foreign portfolio investment.
• For the first ever time in the history of FTAs, a legal commitment is being made about promoting target-oriented investment and creation of jobs.
• EFTA is offering 92.2% of its tariff lines which covers 99.6% of India ’s exports. The EFTA ’s market access offer covers 100% of non-agri products and tariff concession on Processed Agricultural Products (PAP).
• India is offering 82.7% of its tariff lines which covers 95.3% of EFTA exports of which more than 80% import is Gold. The effective duty on Gold remains untouched.Sensitivity related to PLI in sectors such as pharma, medical devices &processed food etc. have been taken while extending offers. Sectors such as dairy, soya, coal and sensitive agricultural products are kept in exclusion list.
• India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA and secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
• TEPA would stimulate our services exports in sectors of our key strength / interest such as IT services, business services, personal, cultural, sporting and recreational services, other education services, audio-visual services etc.
• Services offers from EFTA include better access through digital delivery of Services (Mode 1), commercial presence (Mode 3) and improved commitments and certainty for entry and temporary stay of key personnel (Mode 4).
• TEPA has provisions for Mutual Recognition Agreements in Professional Services like nursing, chartered accountants, architects etc.
• Commitments related to Intellectual Property Rights in TEPA are at TRIPS level. The IPR chapter with Switzerland, which has high standard for IPR,shows our robust IPR regime.India ’s interests in generic medicines and concerns related to evergreening of patents have been fully addressed. 
• India signals its commitment to Sustainable development, inclusive growth, social development and environmental protection
• Fosters transparency, efficiency, simplification, harmonization and consistency of trade procedures
• TEPA will empower our exporters access to specialized inputs and create conducive trade and investment environment. This would boost exports of Indian made goods as well as provide opportunities for services sector to access more markets.
• TEPA provides an opportunity to integrate into EU markets. Over 40% of Switzerland ’s global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending its market reach to EU.
• TEPA will give impetus to “Make in India ”and Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing in sectors such as Infrastructure and Connectivity, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Food Processing, Transport and Logistics, Banking and Financial Services and Insurance.
• TEPA would accelerate creation of large number of direct jobs for India ’s young aspirational workforce in next 15 years in India, including better facilities for vocational and technical training. TEPA also facilitates technology collaboration and access to world leading technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, renewable energy, Innovation and R &D.

[Excerpt from PIB "India and EFTA –Trade Agreement "Dated 26/11/24]

Which organization does Norway belong to as part of the discussed free trade agreement with India?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
India-European Free Trade Association signeda Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) today i.e. on 10th March 2024.
India has been working on a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway &Liechtenstein. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Hon ’ble Prime Minister has approved signing of the TEPA with EFTA States. EFTA is an inter-governmental organization set up in 1960 for the promotion of free trade and economic integration for the benefit of its four Member States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Food and Consumer Affairs and Textiles said:
"TEPA is a modern and ambitious Trade Agreement. For the first time, India is signing FTA with four developed nations - an important economic bloc in Europe. For the first time in history of FTAs, binding commitment of $100 bn investment  and 1 million direct jobs in the next 15 years has been given. The agreement will give a boost to Make in India and provide opportunities to young &talented workforce. The FTA will provide a window to Indian exporters to access large European and global markets."
The agreement comprises of 14 chapters with main focus on market access related to goods, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade remedies, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment promotion, market access on services, intellectual property rights, trade and sustainable development and other legal and horizontal provisions.
EFTA is an important regional group, with several growing opportunities for enhancing international trade in goods and services.EFTA is one important economic block out of the three (other two - EU &UK) in Europe. Among EFTA countries, Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.
The highlights of the agreement are:

• EFTA has committed to promote investments with the aim to increase the stock of foreign direct investments by USD 100 billion in India in the next 15 years, and to facilitate the generation of 1 million direct employment in India, through such investments. The investments do not cover foreign portfolio investment.
• For the first ever time in the history of FTAs, a legal commitment is being made about promoting target-oriented investment and creation of jobs.
• EFTA is offering 92.2% of its tariff lines which covers 99.6% of India ’s exports. The EFTA ’s market access offer covers 100% of non-agri products and tariff concession on Processed Agricultural Products (PAP).
• India is offering 82.7% of its tariff lines which covers 95.3% of EFTA exports of which more than 80% import is Gold. The effective duty on Gold remains untouched.Sensitivity related to PLI in sectors such as pharma, medical devices &processed food etc. have been taken while extending offers. Sectors such as dairy, soya, coal and sensitive agricultural products are kept in exclusion list.
• India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA and secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
• TEPA would stimulate our services exports in sectors of our key strength / interest such as IT services, business services, personal, cultural, sporting and recreational services, other education services, audio-visual services etc.
• Services offers from EFTA include better access through digital delivery of Services (Mode 1), commercial presence (Mode 3) and improved commitments and certainty for entry and temporary stay of key personnel (Mode 4).
• TEPA has provisions for Mutual Recognition Agreements in Professional Services like nursing, chartered accountants, architects etc.
• Commitments related to Intellectual Property Rights in TEPA are at TRIPS level. The IPR chapter with Switzerland, which has high standard for IPR,shows our robust IPR regime.India ’s interests in generic medicines and concerns related to evergreening of patents have been fully addressed. 
• India signals its commitment to Sustainable development, inclusive growth, social development and environmental protection
• Fosters transparency, efficiency, simplification, harmonization and consistency of trade procedures
• TEPA will empower our exporters access to specialized inputs and create conducive trade and investment environment. This would boost exports of Indian made goods as well as provide opportunities for services sector to access more markets.
• TEPA provides an opportunity to integrate into EU markets. Over 40% of Switzerland ’s global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending its market reach to EU.
• TEPA will give impetus to “Make in India ”and Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing in sectors such as Infrastructure and Connectivity, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Food Processing, Transport and Logistics, Banking and Financial Services and Insurance.
• TEPA would accelerate creation of large number of direct jobs for India ’s young aspirational workforce in next 15 years in India, including better facilities for vocational and technical training. TEPA also facilitates technology collaboration and access to world leading technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, renewable energy, Innovation and R &D.

[Excerpt from PIB "India and EFTA –Trade Agreement "Dated 26/11/24]

What is the name of the agreement signed between India and EFTA?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
India-European Free Trade Association signeda Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) today i.e. on 10th March 2024.
India has been working on a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway &Liechtenstein. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Hon ’ble Prime Minister has approved signing of the TEPA with EFTA States. EFTA is an inter-governmental organization set up in 1960 for the promotion of free trade and economic integration for the benefit of its four Member States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Food and Consumer Affairs and Textiles said:
"TEPA is a modern and ambitious Trade Agreement. For the first time, India is signing FTA with four developed nations - an important economic bloc in Europe. For the first time in history of FTAs, binding commitment of $100 bn investment  and 1 million direct jobs in the next 15 years has been given. The agreement will give a boost to Make in India and provide opportunities to young &talented workforce. The FTA will provide a window to Indian exporters to access large European and global markets."
The agreement comprises of 14 chapters with main focus on market access related to goods, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade remedies, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment promotion, market access on services, intellectual property rights, trade and sustainable development and other legal and horizontal provisions.
EFTA is an important regional group, with several growing opportunities for enhancing international trade in goods and services.EFTA is one important economic block out of the three (other two - EU &UK) in Europe. Among EFTA countries, Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.
The highlights of the agreement are:

• EFTA has committed to promote investments with the aim to increase the stock of foreign direct investments by USD 100 billion in India in the next 15 years, and to facilitate the generation of 1 million direct employment in India, through such investments. The investments do not cover foreign portfolio investment.
• For the first ever time in the history of FTAs, a legal commitment is being made about promoting target-oriented investment and creation of jobs.
• EFTA is offering 92.2% of its tariff lines which covers 99.6% of India ’s exports. The EFTA ’s market access offer covers 100% of non-agri products and tariff concession on Processed Agricultural Products (PAP).
• India is offering 82.7% of its tariff lines which covers 95.3% of EFTA exports of which more than 80% import is Gold. The effective duty on Gold remains untouched.Sensitivity related to PLI in sectors such as pharma, medical devices &processed food etc. have been taken while extending offers. Sectors such as dairy, soya, coal and sensitive agricultural products are kept in exclusion list.
• India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA and secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
• TEPA would stimulate our services exports in sectors of our key strength / interest such as IT services, business services, personal, cultural, sporting and recreational services, other education services, audio-visual services etc.
• Services offers from EFTA include better access through digital delivery of Services (Mode 1), commercial presence (Mode 3) and improved commitments and certainty for entry and temporary stay of key personnel (Mode 4).
• TEPA has provisions for Mutual Recognition Agreements in Professional Services like nursing, chartered accountants, architects etc.
• Commitments related to Intellectual Property Rights in TEPA are at TRIPS level. The IPR chapter with Switzerland, which has high standard for IPR,shows our robust IPR regime.India ’s interests in generic medicines and concerns related to evergreening of patents have been fully addressed. 
• India signals its commitment to Sustainable development, inclusive growth, social development and environmental protection
• Fosters transparency, efficiency, simplification, harmonization and consistency of trade procedures
• TEPA will empower our exporters access to specialized inputs and create conducive trade and investment environment. This would boost exports of Indian made goods as well as provide opportunities for services sector to access more markets.
• TEPA provides an opportunity to integrate into EU markets. Over 40% of Switzerland ’s global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending its market reach to EU.
• TEPA will give impetus to “Make in India ”and Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing in sectors such as Infrastructure and Connectivity, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Food Processing, Transport and Logistics, Banking and Financial Services and Insurance.
• TEPA would accelerate creation of large number of direct jobs for India ’s young aspirational workforce in next 15 years in India, including better facilities for vocational and technical training. TEPA also facilitates technology collaboration and access to world leading technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, renewable energy, Innovation and R &D.

[Excerpt from PIB "India and EFTA –Trade Agreement "Dated 26/11/24]

What was Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal ’s primary goal during his visit to Norway?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
India-European Free Trade Association signeda Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) today i.e. on 10th March 2024.
India has been working on a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway &Liechtenstein. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Hon ’ble Prime Minister has approved signing of the TEPA with EFTA States. EFTA is an inter-governmental organization set up in 1960 for the promotion of free trade and economic integration for the benefit of its four Member States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Food and Consumer Affairs and Textiles said:
"TEPA is a modern and ambitious Trade Agreement. For the first time, India is signing FTA with four developed nations - an important economic bloc in Europe. For the first time in history of FTAs, binding commitment of $100 bn investment  and 1 million direct jobs in the next 15 years has been given. The agreement will give a boost to Make in India and provide opportunities to young &talented workforce. The FTA will provide a window to Indian exporters to access large European and global markets."
The agreement comprises of 14 chapters with main focus on market access related to goods, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade remedies, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment promotion, market access on services, intellectual property rights, trade and sustainable development and other legal and horizontal provisions.
EFTA is an important regional group, with several growing opportunities for enhancing international trade in goods and services.EFTA is one important economic block out of the three (other two - EU &UK) in Europe. Among EFTA countries, Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.
The highlights of the agreement are:

• EFTA has committed to promote investments with the aim to increase the stock of foreign direct investments by USD 100 billion in India in the next 15 years, and to facilitate the generation of 1 million direct employment in India, through such investments. The investments do not cover foreign portfolio investment.
• For the first ever time in the history of FTAs, a legal commitment is being made about promoting target-oriented investment and creation of jobs.
• EFTA is offering 92.2% of its tariff lines which covers 99.6% of India ’s exports. The EFTA ’s market access offer covers 100% of non-agri products and tariff concession on Processed Agricultural Products (PAP).
• India is offering 82.7% of its tariff lines which covers 95.3% of EFTA exports of which more than 80% import is Gold. The effective duty on Gold remains untouched.Sensitivity related to PLI in sectors such as pharma, medical devices &processed food etc. have been taken while extending offers. Sectors such as dairy, soya, coal and sensitive agricultural products are kept in exclusion list.
• India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA and secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
• TEPA would stimulate our services exports in sectors of our key strength / interest such as IT services, business services, personal, cultural, sporting and recreational services, other education services, audio-visual services etc.
• Services offers from EFTA include better access through digital delivery of Services (Mode 1), commercial presence (Mode 3) and improved commitments and certainty for entry and temporary stay of key personnel (Mode 4).
• TEPA has provisions for Mutual Recognition Agreements in Professional Services like nursing, chartered accountants, architects etc.
• Commitments related to Intellectual Property Rights in TEPA are at TRIPS level. The IPR chapter with Switzerland, which has high standard for IPR,shows our robust IPR regime.India ’s interests in generic medicines and concerns related to evergreening of patents have been fully addressed. 
• India signals its commitment to Sustainable development, inclusive growth, social development and environmental protection
• Fosters transparency, efficiency, simplification, harmonization and consistency of trade procedures
• TEPA will empower our exporters access to specialized inputs and create conducive trade and investment environment. This would boost exports of Indian made goods as well as provide opportunities for services sector to access more markets.
• TEPA provides an opportunity to integrate into EU markets. Over 40% of Switzerland ’s global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending its market reach to EU.
• TEPA will give impetus to “Make in India ”and Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing in sectors such as Infrastructure and Connectivity, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Food Processing, Transport and Logistics, Banking and Financial Services and Insurance.
• TEPA would accelerate creation of large number of direct jobs for India ’s young aspirational workforce in next 15 years in India, including better facilities for vocational and technical training. TEPA also facilitates technology collaboration and access to world leading technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, renewable energy, Innovation and R &D.

[Excerpt from PIB "India and EFTA –Trade Agreement "Dated 26/11/24]

What was the proposed investment plan discussed during the visit?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
India-European Free Trade Association signeda Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) today i.e. on 10th March 2024.
India has been working on a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway &Liechtenstein. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Hon ’ble Prime Minister has approved signing of the TEPA with EFTA States. EFTA is an inter-governmental organization set up in 1960 for the promotion of free trade and economic integration for the benefit of its four Member States.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Food and Consumer Affairs and Textiles said:
"TEPA is a modern and ambitious Trade Agreement. For the first time, India is signing FTA with four developed nations - an important economic bloc in Europe. For the first time in history of FTAs, binding commitment of $100 bn investment  and 1 million direct jobs in the next 15 years has been given. The agreement will give a boost to Make in India and provide opportunities to young &talented workforce. The FTA will provide a window to Indian exporters to access large European and global markets."
The agreement comprises of 14 chapters with main focus on market access related to goods, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade remedies, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, investment promotion, market access on services, intellectual property rights, trade and sustainable development and other legal and horizontal provisions.
EFTA is an important regional group, with several growing opportunities for enhancing international trade in goods and services.EFTA is one important economic block out of the three (other two - EU &UK) in Europe. Among EFTA countries, Switzerland is the largest trading partner of India followed by Norway.
The highlights of the agreement are:

• EFTA has committed to promote investments with the aim to increase the stock of foreign direct investments by USD 100 billion in India in the next 15 years, and to facilitate the generation of 1 million direct employment in India, through such investments. The investments do not cover foreign portfolio investment.
• For the first ever time in the history of FTAs, a legal commitment is being made about promoting target-oriented investment and creation of jobs.
• EFTA is offering 92.2% of its tariff lines which covers 99.6% of India ’s exports. The EFTA ’s market access offer covers 100% of non-agri products and tariff concession on Processed Agricultural Products (PAP).
• India is offering 82.7% of its tariff lines which covers 95.3% of EFTA exports of which more than 80% import is Gold. The effective duty on Gold remains untouched.Sensitivity related to PLI in sectors such as pharma, medical devices &processed food etc. have been taken while extending offers. Sectors such as dairy, soya, coal and sensitive agricultural products are kept in exclusion list.
• India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA and secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
• TEPA would stimulate our services exports in sectors of our key strength / interest such as IT services, business services, personal, cultural, sporting and recreational services, other education services, audio-visual services etc.
• Services offers from EFTA include better access through digital delivery of Services (Mode 1), commercial presence (Mode 3) and improved commitments and certainty for entry and temporary stay of key personnel (Mode 4).
• TEPA has provisions for Mutual Recognition Agreements in Professional Services like nursing, chartered accountants, architects etc.
• Commitments related to Intellectual Property Rights in TEPA are at TRIPS level. The IPR chapter with Switzerland, which has high standard for IPR,shows our robust IPR regime.India ’s interests in generic medicines and concerns related to evergreening of patents have been fully addressed. 
• India signals its commitment to Sustainable development, inclusive growth, social development and environmental protection
• Fosters transparency, efficiency, simplification, harmonization and consistency of trade procedures
• TEPA will empower our exporters access to specialized inputs and create conducive trade and investment environment. This would boost exports of Indian made goods as well as provide opportunities for services sector to access more markets.
• TEPA provides an opportunity to integrate into EU markets. Over 40% of Switzerland ’s global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending its market reach to EU.
• TEPA will give impetus to “Make in India ”and Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic manufacturing in sectors such as Infrastructure and Connectivity, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Food Processing, Transport and Logistics, Banking and Financial Services and Insurance.
• TEPA would accelerate creation of large number of direct jobs for India ’s young aspirational workforce in next 15 years in India, including better facilities for vocational and technical training. TEPA also facilitates technology collaboration and access to world leading technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, renewable energy, Innovation and R &D.

[Excerpt from PIB "India and EFTA –Trade Agreement "Dated 26/11/24]

How much seafood does India export annually in terms of value?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an essential tool but must be used optimally with responsible handling,"stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024. The event, themed "AI for India: Advancing India ’s AI Development - Innovation, Ethics, and Governance,"showcased India 's strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enabled initiation of AI driven programmes as also the launch of QuantumMission.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India ’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
A significant announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh was the introduction of India ’s first practical AI Data Bank. This initiative aims to accelerate technological growth and innovation by providing researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the AI Data Bank in enhancing national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data. This step aligns with India ’s goal to utilize AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security.
India ’s National Strategy for AI is guided by a comprehensive approach focused on innovation, ethical governance, and global collaboration. The government is fostering partnerships between academia, private enterprises, and startups to propel AI applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India ’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. He also emphasized the need for India to actively participate in global platforms such as the United Nations and G20 to promote a rules-based AI framework.
The Minister highlighted the government ’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
Dr. Jitendra Singh envisioned a promising future where India emerges as a global AI leader by 2047, emphasizing responsible and inclusive AI development. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to ensure AI ’s integration for sustainable and inclusive development.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
[Excerpt from PIB "IFFI 2024 in Goa "Dated 22/11/24]

Who launched India ’s first AI data bank?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an essential tool but must be used optimally with responsible handling,"stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024. The event, themed "AI for India: Advancing India ’s AI Development - Innovation, Ethics, and Governance,"showcased India 's strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enabled initiation of AI driven programmes as also the launch of QuantumMission.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India ’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
A significant announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh was the introduction of India ’s first practical AI Data Bank. This initiative aims to accelerate technological growth and innovation by providing researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the AI Data Bank in enhancing national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data. This step aligns with India ’s goal to utilize AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security.
India ’s National Strategy for AI is guided by a comprehensive approach focused on innovation, ethical governance, and global collaboration. The government is fostering partnerships between academia, private enterprises, and startups to propel AI applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India ’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. He also emphasized the need for India to actively participate in global platforms such as the United Nations and G20 to promote a rules-based AI framework.
The Minister highlighted the government ’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
Dr. Jitendra Singh envisioned a promising future where India emerges as a global AI leader by 2047, emphasizing responsible and inclusive AI development. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to ensure AI ’s integration for sustainable and inclusive development.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
[Excerpt from PIB "IFFI 2024 in Goa "Dated 22/11/24]

At which event was the AI data bank introduced?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an essential tool but must be used optimally with responsible handling,"stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024. The event, themed "AI for India: Advancing India ’s AI Development - Innovation, Ethics, and Governance,"showcased India 's strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enabled initiation of AI driven programmes as also the launch of QuantumMission.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India ’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
A significant announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh was the introduction of India ’s first practical AI Data Bank. This initiative aims to accelerate technological growth and innovation by providing researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the AI Data Bank in enhancing national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data. This step aligns with India ’s goal to utilize AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security.
India ’s National Strategy for AI is guided by a comprehensive approach focused on innovation, ethical governance, and global collaboration. The government is fostering partnerships between academia, private enterprises, and startups to propel AI applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India ’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. He also emphasized the need for India to actively participate in global platforms such as the United Nations and G20 to promote a rules-based AI framework.
The Minister highlighted the government ’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
Dr. Jitendra Singh envisioned a promising future where India emerges as a global AI leader by 2047, emphasizing responsible and inclusive AI development. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to ensure AI ’s integration for sustainable and inclusive development.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
[Excerpt from PIB "IFFI 2024 in Goa "Dated 22/11/24]

What was the theme of the 7th ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an essential tool but must be used optimally with responsible handling,"stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024. The event, themed "AI for India: Advancing India ’s AI Development - Innovation, Ethics, and Governance,"showcased India 's strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enabled initiation of AI driven programmes as also the launch of QuantumMission.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India ’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
A significant announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh was the introduction of India ’s first practical AI Data Bank. This initiative aims to accelerate technological growth and innovation by providing researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the AI Data Bank in enhancing national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data. This step aligns with India ’s goal to utilize AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security.
India ’s National Strategy for AI is guided by a comprehensive approach focused on innovation, ethical governance, and global collaboration. The government is fostering partnerships between academia, private enterprises, and startups to propel AI applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India ’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. He also emphasized the need for India to actively participate in global platforms such as the United Nations and G20 to promote a rules-based AI framework.
The Minister highlighted the government ’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
Dr. Jitendra Singh envisioned a promising future where India emerges as a global AI leader by 2047, emphasizing responsible and inclusive AI development. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to ensure AI ’s integration for sustainable and inclusive development.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
[Excerpt from PIB "IFFI 2024 in Goa "Dated 22/11/24]

What is one primary purpose of the AI data bank?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an essential tool but must be used optimally with responsible handling,"stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024. The event, themed "AI for India: Advancing India ’s AI Development - Innovation, Ethics, and Governance,"showcased India 's strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has enabled initiation of AI driven programmes as also the launch of QuantumMission.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India ’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
A significant announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh was the introduction of India ’s first practical AI Data Bank. This initiative aims to accelerate technological growth and innovation by providing researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the AI Data Bank in enhancing national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data. This step aligns with India ’s goal to utilize AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security.
India ’s National Strategy for AI is guided by a comprehensive approach focused on innovation, ethical governance, and global collaboration. The government is fostering partnerships between academia, private enterprises, and startups to propel AI applications in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India ’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. He also emphasized the need for India to actively participate in global platforms such as the United Nations and G20 to promote a rules-based AI framework.
The Minister highlighted the government ’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
Dr. Jitendra Singh envisioned a promising future where India emerges as a global AI leader by 2047, emphasizing responsible and inclusive AI development. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to ensure AI ’s integration for sustainable and inclusive development.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
[Excerpt from PIB "IFFI 2024 in Goa "Dated 22/11/24]

Which sectors did the Minister highlight as being transformed by AI?