The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) measures performance of which type of sectors?
- Service sectors
- Core infrastructure
- Agricultural output
- Financial markets
Explanation: The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) is a key economic indicator in India, reflecting the performance of eight vital infrastructure sectors: Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity. These sectors are considered the backbone of the economy, and their growth or contraction significantly impacts the overall industrial production and economic health of the nation. The ICI is compiled and released monthly by the Office of the Economic Adviser (OEA), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It serves as a lead indicator for industrial activity and contributes a substantial weight (40.27%) to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
The Padma Awards are presented by which constitutional office holder in India?
- Vice President
- Prime Minister
- Chief Justice
- President of India
Explanation: The Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian honours of India, are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, usually in March or April every year. These awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a high order), and Padma Shri (for distinguished service in any field). The awards seek to recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved. The Prime Minister constitutes the Padma Awards Committee, but the actual presentation is done by the President, symbolizing the highest recognition from the Head of State.
The "Trade Watch Quarterly" report is launched by which Indian institution?
- NITI Aayog
- Ministry of Commerce
- Reserve Bank
- Finance Ministry
Explanation: NITI Aayog, the premier policy 'Think Tank' of the Government of India, is responsible for launching various reports and initiatives that provide strategic and technical advice to the central and state governments. The "Trade Watch Quarterly" is one such publication, focusing on analyzing trends and developments in India's trade sector. These reports are crucial for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to understand the dynamics of international trade, identify challenges, and formulate effective strategies for economic growth and global competitiveness. NITI Aayog's role involves fostering cooperative federalism and designing strategic and long-term policies and programmes for the Government of India.
The Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) operates under which Union Ministry?
- Ministry of Finance
- Ministry of Justice
- Ministry of Labour
- Ministry of MSME
Explanation: The Office of the Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) (CLC(C)) is an attached office of the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India. It is responsible for enforcing labour laws and rules in the central sphere, preventing and resolving industrial disputes, and promoting industrial harmony. The CLC(C) organization plays a crucial role in protecting the interests of workers, ensuring fair labour practices, and implementing various welfare schemes. Its functions include conciliation in industrial disputes, verification of trade union membership, enforcement of minimum wages, and resolution of wage claims, as highlighted by the special court camp mentioned in the news.
Grid India primarily focuses on which aspect of the national power system?
- Power generation
- Grid stability
- Renewable energy
- Rural electrification
Explanation: Grid India, officially known as Power System Operation Corporation Limited (POSOCO), is a wholly owned subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), operating under the Ministry of Power. Its primary mandate is to ensure the integrated operation of the national power system, focusing on grid stability, reliability, and security. This involves managing the real-time operation of the grid, scheduling and dispatching electricity, and ensuring optimal utilization of transmission resources. The news headline about repurposing underutilised thermal power plants for grid stability directly aligns with Grid India's core function of maintaining a robust and resilient power infrastructure to meet the nation's energy demands.