Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has passed away at the age of 92.
Where is Disneyland Located?
Disneyland is a magical place that brings the world of Disney to life. The first Disneyland park opened in the United States and has become one of the most popular tourist destinations. Over the years, Disneyland expanded to other countries, creating magical experiences in different parts of the world.
Location of Disneyland
Disneyland is a famous theme park located in Anaheim, California. It is known for its magical experiences with Disney characters, fairy tales, and exciting rides. As the first theme park created by the Walt Disney company, Disneyland is often referred to as “the happiest place Earth.”
Opening of Disneyland
Disneyland first opened its door on July 17, 1955. When it opened, the park had 18 rides and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Since then, it has grown into one of the most popular vacation spots in the world.
Design of Disneyland
Walt Disney himself helped design and build Disneyland. He worked with a talented team of people to bring his dream of a magical theme park to life. The park’s design is unique and creative, capturing the magic of Disney stories.
Themed Areas of Disneyland
Disneyland is divided into several themed areas, each offering a different adventure:
- Main Street, USA: The entrance area with shops and restaurants.
- Fantasyland: A fairy tale world with rides inspired by Disney stories.
- Adventureland: Featuring jungle-themed rides and experiences.
- Frontierland: A western-themed area with exciting rides.
- Tomorrowland: A futuristic land with space-themed attarctions.
- New Orleans Square: A southern-themed area of charm.
- Bear Country: A fun, nature-inspired area.
- Mickey’s Toontown: A playful area designed after cartoon characters.
Popular Rides At Disneyland
Disneyland has many fun rides for people of all ages, including:
- Matterhorn: A thrilling roller coaster.
- Incredicoaster: A fast roller coaster based on the “Incredibles” movie.
- Indiana Jones Adventure: A wild ride through an ancient temple.
- Storybook Land Canal Boats: A peaceful boat ride through miniature lands.
- Snow White’s Enchanted Wish: A gentle ride through Snow White’s Story.
- Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride: A fun, adventurous ride based on the classic story.
Amenities at Disneyland
Disneyland offers many amenities to make you visit comfortable:
- Baggage storage
- Lockers
- Restaurants and restrooms
- Wi-Fi
- Party Services
What is the Old Name of Hindon River?
The Hindon River is an important river in northern India, flowing through Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. It has a long history and was once known by its ancient name, Harnandi. This name reflects its cultural and spiritual significance in the past, making the river an essential part of the region’s heritage.
Old Name of Hindon River
The Hindon River, which is a significant water source in Uttar Pradesh, was once known as the Harnandi. It holds a deep connection to Indian mythology, history and religious traditions.
Mythology of the Hindon River
In ancient times, the Hindon River was referred to as the Harnandi in the Mahabharata. It is mentioned as an important place where the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic, prayed at the confluence of the Hindon and Krishna Rivers. This place was known as Varnavrat, which is today called Barnava.
Historical Significance of Hindon River
The Hindon River played a crucial role during the First War of Indian Independence in 1857. Several battles took place along its banks, including the Battle of Badli Ki Serai, where Indian sepoys fought against the British army. This river witnessed many such skirmishes during the rebellious period.
Origin of the Hindon River
The Hindon River begins its journey from the Shivalik mountains in the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh. From where, it flows through various districts, including Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Noida and Greater Noida. Finally, it merges with the Yamuna River near the Momnathal and Tilwada villages in the Gautam Buddh Nagar District.
Catchment Area of the Hindon River
The catchment area of the Hindon River is around 7,083 square kilometers. This means the area from which the river gathers its water is quite vast, spreading across several regions in Uttar Pradesh.
Religious Importance of the Hindon River
At the confluence of the Hindon, Kali and Nadi rivers in Barnava, there is a significant religious site known as the Ancient Mahadev Temple. The spot is considered sacred by many and attracts numerous visitors who come for spiritual reasons.
Who is Known as the Waterman of India?
The Waterman of India is a title for someone who works to solve water problems and revive rivers. Through efforts like water harvesting and conservation, they bring water to drought-prone areas, improving lives and inspiring others to save this vital resource. In this article, we will know about the person who is known as the “Waterman of India.”
Waterman of India
Rajendra Singh, called the “Waterman of India,” is a famous water conservationist from Rajasthan. He revived dry rivers like Arvari and helped thousands of villages manage water using traditional methods like johads. Through hos NGO, Tarun Bharat Sangh, he won awards like the Magsaysay Award (2001) and Stockholm Water Prize (2015).
Early Life of Rajendra Singh
Rajendra Singh was born on 6th August 1959 in the village of Daula in Uttar Pradesh’s Bagpat district. The eldest of seven siblings, he grew up on his family’s farmland. His father was an agriculturist who owed 60 acres of land. Singh’s interest in community service began in high school when he joined efforts to improve village life, clean the surroundings, and eradicate alcoholism. Influenced by mentors, he became passionate about social issues and democracy during his formative years.
Journey into Water Conservation
Rajendra Singh started his career in government service but soon felt dissatisfied with its limitations. In 1984, he left his job, sold his belongings, and moved to Alwar, Rajasthan, with a group of friends. There, he established a base in Bhikampura village and began working with villagers to address water scarcity.
The Revival of Traditional Water Techniques
Singh’s efforts focused on reviving traditional water conservation methods like johads (earthen check dams) to store rainwater and recharge groundwater. With the help of villagers, he resorted an old johad in Gopalpura. When the monsoon arrived, the structure successfully collected rainwater, and nearby wells refilled after years of being dry.
Inspired by this success, villagers, built more johads, eventually leading to the revival of rivers like Arvari, Ruparel, Sarsa, Bhagani and Jahajwali, which had been dry for decades.
Fighting for Water and Nature
Rajendra Singh faced challenges from mining activities, which were depleting water resources. He fought legal battles, leading to a ban on mining in the Aravalli Hills by 1992. His organization, Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), played a pivotal role in creating over 8,600 water structures, bringing water back to more than 1,000 villages in Rajasthan.
Expanding the Mission
The success of TBS spread beyond Rajasthan, reaching parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. Singh also initiated the Pani Panchayat (Water Parliament) to educate people about water conservation and sustainable use of resources.
Awards and Recognition to Rajendra Singh
Rajendra Singh’s remarkable work has earned him numerous awards:
- Ramon Magsaysay Award (2001): For his leadership in water management.
- Jamnalal Bajaj Award (2005): For rural development through science and technology.
- Stockholm Water Prize (2015): Known as the “Nobel Prize for Water.”
- Recognition by The Guardian as one of the “50 people who could save the planet” in 2008.
Legacy of Waterman of India
Rajendra Singh’s efforts have transformed arid regions, revived rivers and empowered communities to manage their water resources sustainably. His journey inspires millions to value water and protect the environment.
Who Won the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy?
The 2009 ICC Champions Trophy, also known as the “Mini World Cup,” was held in South Africa from September 22 to October 5, 2009. It was the sixth edition of this prestigious cricket tournament, which featured the top eight ODI teams. The tournament was filled with thrilling moments, exceptional performances, and memorable achievements.
Who Won the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy?
Australia emerged as the winner of the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy, defeating New Zealand by six wickets in the final held at Supersport Park, Centurion on October 5, 2009. This victory marked Australia’s second consecutive Champions Trophy win, as they had also won the tournament in 2006.
The final was a low-scoring yet tense affair. New Zealand, batting first, managed to score 200 runs in 45.1 overs, with Martin Guptill top-scoring with 40 runs. Australia chased down the target with relative ease, reaching 206/4 in 45.2 overs, thanks to a composed knock by their skipper Ricky Ponting and contributions from Shane Watson.
Player of the Match in the Final: Shane Watson
Shane Watson played a pivotal role in Australia’s victory in the final. He scored an unbeaten 105 runs off 129 balls, hitting 10 boundaries and 4 sixes. His calm and composed innings anchored the Australian chase and ensured that the team retained their Champions Trophy title.
Watson’s exceptional all-round skills throughout the tournament were crucial for Australia, and his match-winning century in the final cemented his reputation as a reliable performer in high-pressure games.
Player of the Tournament: Ricky Ponting
Australia’s captain, Ricky Ponting, was awarded the Player of the Tournament for his consistent performances with the bat and exceptional leadership. Ponting scored a total of 288 runs in the tournament, including a vital knock of 111 runs against England in the semi-final, which helped Australia secure their spot in the final.
His ability to lead from the front and deliver in critical moments made him a deserving recipient of this honor. Ponting’s tactical acumen and calm demeanor under pressure played a significant role in Australia’s success throughout the tournament.
Key Moments from the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy
- Australia’s Dominance: Australia remained undefeated in the tournament, showcasing their all-round strength in both batting and bowling.
- South Africa’s Early Exit: The host nation, South Africa, failed to make it past the group stage, much to the disappointment of their fans.
- New Zealand’s Grit: Despite being underdogs, New Zealand reached the final, defeating strong teams like Pakistan in the semi-final.
- Stellar Performances: Shane Watson, Ricky Ponting, and Mitchell Johnson were standout performers for Australia, while Daniel Vettori and Martin Guptill shone for New Zealand.
Final Match Summary
- Venue: Supersport Park, Centurion, South Africa
- New Zealand’s Score: 200 all out (45.1 overs)
- Australia’s Score: 206/4 (45.2 overs)
- Result: Australia won by 6 wickets
Top Performers in the Final:
- New Zealand: Martin Guptill (40 runs), Kyle Mills (3 wickets for 27 runs).
- Australia: Shane Watson (105*), Nathan Hauritz (3 wickets for 37 runs).
Top-5 Cardamom Producing States in India
Cardamom is a popular spice grown in India, known for its unique aroma and flavor. It is mainly grown in the southern states in India, and the production of cardamom plays an important role in the economy of these regions. Below are the top-5 cardamom-producing states in India.
Cardamom Production in India
India’s total cardamom production is around 8,000 tonnes, making it the second-largest producer in the world, after Guatemala. The global production of cardamom is about 35,000 metric tonnes annually. India plays a key role in meeting the global demand for this valuable spice, mainly through production in states like Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
5 Cardamom Producing Indian States
India is one of the largest producers of Cardamom, thanks to its favorable climate, fertile soil and advanced farming techniques across several states. Here are the names of top-5 cardamom producing Indian states:
- Kerala
- Sikkim
- Nagaland
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Karnataka
India’s Largest Cardamom Producing State
Kerala is the largest producer of cardamom in India. With a production of 15,540 tonnes, Kerala contributes more than half (58.6%) of the total cardamom grown in India. The state’s ideal climate, with temperatures between 10-35ºC, makes it perfect for Cardamom cultivation. Kerala’s fertile land and favorable weather conditions allow farmers to grow a large amount of Cardamom. Additionally, the state plays a crucial role in India’s cardamom exports, which significantly boosts the country’s economy.
Sikkim, Second Largest Cardamom Producing State
Sikkim is known for producing large cardamom. The state’s loamy soil and ideal pH level make it perfect for cultivation. Sikkim uses modern farming techniques like nurseries and irrigation to increase production, contributing 19.8% of India’s total Cardamom output.
Nagaland
Nagaland ranks third in cardamom production by using innovative farming methods and government support. The state’s farmers adopt modern techniques like e-selling, allowing them to produce more cardamom efficiently. This makes Nagaland a significant contributor to India’s cardamom supply.
Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh has shifted from opium to cardamom farming, with favorable climate and soil conditions. The government supports farmers with policies and resources, helping the state grow cardamom. Arunachal Pradesh is expected to increase its production in the future.
Karnataka
Karnataka is known for producing various spices, including cardamom. The fertile Western Ghats region and monsoon climate make it ideal for farming cardamom. Karnataka contributes 3.5% to India’s total production, with farmers efficiently growing the spice in the state.
Indore Airport Launches Waste Processing Unit In Green Initiative
IndiGo’s CSR initiative, IndiGoReach, has launched the Zero Waste Airport Project at Indore Airport, in partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and AAS Foundation, Indore. This project aims to create a sustainable and eco-friendly airport by utilizing the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover. By reducing the environmental impact of airport operations, the initiative sets a new benchmark for waste management in aviation, focusing on behavioral change, stakeholder engagement, and training.
Key Aspect of Zero Waste Airport Project
- Objective: Minimize the environmental impact of airport operations and introduce sustainable waste management practices.
- Partnership: Collaboration between IndiGo, Airports Authority of India (AAI), and AAS Foundation, Indore.
- Strategy: Based on the 4R framework – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover.
- Focus: Behavioral change, stakeholder engagement, and training for both airport staff and passengers.
Features of The Project
Material Recovery Facility (MRF)
- Inaugurated by dignitaries including Shri Rammohan Naidu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, and other political leaders.
- MRF will sort dry waste into 10 categories for recycling.
- Guided tours of the facility showcased waste segregation and recycling processes.
Wet Waste Processing Unit
- Transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost.
- Compost will be used to enhance the airport’s landscaping.
Delhi Waste Management
- The plant will process 750 kgs of daily waste on-site, reducing the need for landfills.
Self Sustaining Model
- Income generated from compost and recycled materials will fund salaries of green workers from the third year onward.
- This ensures the long-term sustainability of the project.
Public Awareness and Engagement
- Public awareness campaigns and waste segregation practices will encourage responsible waste disposal among passengers and staff.
Environmental and Community Benefits
- Reduction of landfill dependency through on-site waste processing.
- Significant reduction in environmental footprint of the airport.
- Job creation for local green workers, fostering community development.
- Set a precedent for sustainable practices in the aviation sector.
| Summary/Static | Details |
| Why in the news? | Indore Airport Launches Waste Processing Unit In Green Initiative |
| Objective | Minimize environmental impact through sustainable waste management. |
| 4R Strategy | Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover to manage airport waste. |
| Key Partners | IndiGo, Airports Authority of India, AAS Foundation, Indore |
| Material Recovery Facility | Inaugurated by political leaders; sorts waste into 10 categories. |
| Wet Waste Processing Unit | Converts organic waste into compost for airport landscaping. |
| Waste Processing Capacity | 750 kgs of waste processed daily on-site. |
| Self-Sustaining Model | Income from recycled materials and compost funds green workers’ salaries. |
| Public Engagement | Waste segregation and awareness campaigns for passengers and staff. |
| Community Benefits | Job creation, reduced landfill dependence, long-term sustainability. |
| Inauguration | Event attended by Union Minister of Civil Aviation and other dignitaries. |
Defence Ministry Launches Rashtraparv Website & App on Good Governance Day
On December 25, 2024, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh launched the Rashtraparv Website and Mobile App, commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and marking Good Governance Day. The platform, developed by the Ministry of Defence, aims to provide a transparent and citizen-centric approach to the organization of key national events such as Republic Day, Beating Retreat, and Independence Day. This initiative follows a consultative process, addressing feedback from both states and attendees, offering better accessibility and information sharing.
Key Features of Rashtraparv Website & App
Event Details and Live-Streaming: The platform provides comprehensive information on national events, including schedules, seating arrangements, route maps, and live streaming options.
Ticketing and Event Management: It includes the ability to purchase tickets for events, ensuring easier access for attendees.
Tableau Management Portal: A new feature to help states, UTs, and central ministries design and finalize their Republic Day tableaux, enhancing coordination and organization.
Swarnim Bharat Theme for 2025 Republic Day
The 2025 Republic Day celebration will feature the theme “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,” focusing on India’s heritage and development. This theme was chosen after consultations with states and UTs, reflecting the spirit of unity and progress.
Selected States and UTs for 2025 Republic Day
The Defence Ministry has selected 15 states and UTs, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Goa, and Uttar Pradesh, to display their tableaux on Kartavya Path, celebrating India’s cultural richness.
Access and Availability
The Rashtraparv website can be accessed at [https://rashtraparv.mod.gov.in], and the mobile app is available for download on the Government App Store (M-Seva).
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Launch of Rashtraparv Website & App | Launched on 25th December 2024 by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Good Governance Day, commemorating Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth anniversary. |
| Key Features | – Live streaming of national events like Republic Day, Beating Retreat, Independence Day. – Ticket purchasing for events. – Tableau Management Portal for designing and finalizing Republic Day tableaux. |
| Swarnim Bharat Theme for 2025 Republic Day | “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” is the theme for 2025 Republic Day tableaux. |
| States & UTs Selected for 2025 Republic Day | 15 states/UTs selected: Andhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Bihar, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal. |
| Republic Day Venue | The Republic Day celebrations will be held on Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) in New Delhi. |
| Website and App Accessibility | Website: [https://rashtraparv.mod.gov.in], App available on Government App Store (M-Seva). |
| Event Information Provided | Includes seating arrangements, route maps, and historic event data. |
| Consultative Process for Development | Platform developed after feedback from states and attendees, aiming to enhance coordination and provide better information access. |
Important Awards and Honors in 2024, Check the List
In 2024, numerous prestigious awards and honors were given to individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions in various fields. These awards recognize excellence in areas such as science, literature, sports and arts. They not only celebrate achievements but also inspire others to strive for greatness. This article highlights some of the most important awards and the recipients who made a significant impact in their respective domains this year.
Nobel Prizes 2024
The Nobel Prizes are among the most well-known awards worldwide. They honor individuals and organizations for their outstanding work in science, literature, peace and economics. The winners for 2024 were announced in October. Here is a look at the Novel Prize categories and their recipients:
| Category | Winners | Achievement |
| Physiology or Medicine | Victor Ambros, Gary Ruvkun | Discovery of microRNA and its role in gene regulation. |
| Physics | John Hopfield, Geoffrey Hinton | Foundational discoveries in artificial neural networks and machine learning. |
| Chemistry | David Baker, Demis Hassabis, John Jumper | Innovations in protein structure prediction and design using AI. |
| Literature | Han Kang | Poetic prose exploring historical traumas and human fragility. |
| Peace | Nihon Hidankyo | Advocacy for a nuclear-free world, representing atomic bomb survivors. |
| Economic Sciences | Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, James A. Robinson | Studies on how institutions affect economic prosperity. |
Insights into Nobel Winners
- Physiology or Medicine: The discovery of microRNA by Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun has changed our understanding of gene regulation, crucial for many life processes.
- Physics: John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton’s work in artificial neural networks has paved the way for advancements in machine learning and AI.
- Chemistry: David Baker, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper’s work on protein structure prediction using AI has solved many long-standing challenges in science.
- Literature: Han Kang is recognized for her unique writing style that explores deep human emotions and historical themes.
- Peace Prize: Nihon Hidankyo was awarded for its tireless efforts in promoting a world without nuclear weapons and representing the survivors of the atomic bombings.
- Economic Sciences: The research by Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James A. Robinson focused on how institutions influence economic growth and development.
Padma Awards (India)
The Padma Awards are some of the highest civilian honors in India. They are given to individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. The awards are divided into three categories:
| Award | Recipient | Field |
| Padma Vibhushan | Vyjayantimala Bali | Art |
| Konidela Chiranjeevi | Art | |
| Padma Bhushan | M Fathima Beevi | Public Affairs |
| Hormusji N Cama | Journalism | |
| Padma Shri | Khalil Ahamad | Art |
| Rezwana Choudhary Bannya | Art |
Academy Awards (Oscars)
The Oscars, or Academy Awards, honor the best achievements in film. The winners in 2024 were:
| Award | Recipient | Movie |
| Best Picture | The Fabelmans | – |
| Best Director | Steven Spielberg | The Fabelmans |
| Best Actor | Brendan Fraser | The Whale |
| Best Actress | Michelle | Everything Everywhere All at Once |
The year 2024 has seen remarkable individuals and organizations receive recognition for their contributions to society. From revolutionary scientific discoveries to exceptional artistic achievements and impactful humanitarian efforts, these awards celebrate the dedication, creativity and resilience of the people shaping our world.
Arunish Chawla Appointed as New Revenue Secretary in Finance Ministry
Arunish Chawla, a senior IAS officer of the 1992 batch from the Bihar cadre, has been appointed as the new Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. This follows the vacancy created after Sanjay Malhotra’s appointment as RBI Governor. Chawla will take charge from Ajay Seth, who had been handling the additional responsibility of Revenue Secretary since Malhotra’s appointment. The Cabinet’s appointments committee confirmed that Chawla will continue to hold the additional charge of the Ministry of Culture until a regular incumbent is appointed.
Key Appointments and Responsibilities
Chawla, currently serving as Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, will assume his new role ahead of the Budget presentation. With a distinguished career that includes positions like joint secretary in the Finance Ministry’s Expenditure Department and minister (economics) at the Indian Embassy in Washington, Chawla’s expertise in economics and public administration positions him well for implementing crucial reforms, including tax reforms and GST rationalization.
Previous Roles and Contributions
Chawla’s career has spanned various significant roles, including as the Additional Chief Secretary of Planning and Development in Bihar, where he also served as the Secretary of the Bihar State Planning Board and Project Director of the Bihar Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Society. Additionally, he contributed to urban development and served as the Managing Director of the Patna Metro Rail Corporation. His appointment comes with a focus on improving tax collection, digital transformation, and reviewing key fiscal policies.
Other Appointments
The Appointments Committee also made several other changes, including:
- Amit Agrawal, CEO of UIDAI, is appointed as Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
- Vineet Joshi, the Chief Secretary of Manipur, is the new Higher Education Secretary.
- Neelam Shammi Rao has been appointed as the Textiles Secretary.
- Rachna Shah, former Textiles Secretary, will now lead the Department of Personnel and Training.
- Sanjay Sethi will take over as the Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Arunish Chawla appointed as Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance | – Arunish Chawla, a 1992-batch IAS officer from Bihar, replaces Ajay Seth as Revenue Secretary. – Chawla was serving as Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. – Chawla will continue holding the additional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Culture. |
| Appointments and Other Changes | – Amit Agrawal (CEO, UIDAI) appointed as Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals. – Vineet Joshi (Manipur Chief Secretary) appointed Secretary, Department of Higher Education. – Rachna Shah appointed Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training. – Neelam Shammi Rao appointed Textiles Secretary. – Sanjay Sethi appointed Secretary, National Commission for Minorities. |
| Notable Positions Held by Arunish Chawla | – Former Joint Secretary, Expenditure Department, Ministry of Finance. – Former Minister (Economics) at the Indian Embassy in the U.S. – Former Additional Chief Secretary for Planning and Development in Bihar. – Former Managing Director, Patna Metro Rail Corporation. |
| Key Responsibilities as Revenue Secretary | – Oversee Income Tax Act review, GST rationalization, and Customs duty review. – Focus on improving tax collection and digital transformation in revenue management. |
| Educational Background | – Chawla holds a Postgraduate degree and PhD in Economics from the London School of Economics. |
