Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
1.Which state inaugurated the 27th Technological Conference of Indian Jute Industries’ Research Association (IJIRA) on Shaping the Future of Jute?(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
1. Maharashtra
2. Odisha
3. Assam
4. Manipur
5. West Bengal
Answer – 5. West Bengal
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani attended the 27th Technological Conference of Indian Jute Industries’ Research Association (IJIRA) on Shaping the Future of Jute, in Kolkata, West Bengal. While addressing the conference, Ms Irani praised (IJIRA) for developing low-cost jute-based sanitary napkins. Jute based sanitary napkins have lesser chemical content. Moreover, the manufacturing of the jute-based napkin can lead to the development of women entrepreneurs. Ms. Irani also added that potential entrepreneurs who wish to start manufacturing of these jute-based sanitary napkins can benefit from the Mudra loan scheme of the government.
2. In which state, the Satara Mega Food Park was inaugurated by Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Minister of Food Processing Industries?
1. Maharashtra
2. Sikkim
3. Rajasthan
4. Haryana
5. Assam
Answer – 1. Maharashtra
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
On 1st March 2018, M/s Satara Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd., the first Mega Food Park in Maharashtra, was inaugurated by Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Minister of Food Processing Industries at Degaon village, Satara district of Maharashtra. Satara Mega Food Park is the 12th Mega Food Park put to function in India. Under the Mega Food Park Scheme, Central Government offers funds up to Rs. 50 Crore for each Mega Food Park project. Ministry of Food Processing Industries is carrying out the Mega Food Park Scheme to improve food processing sector by adding value and reducing food wastage in the supply chain. Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that, the Mega Food Park will involve an additional investment of nearly Rs. 250 crores in 25-30 food processing units in the park. It will bring a turnover of around Rs. 450-500 crore every year. The Park will offer direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons. It will also benefit 25,000 farmers.
3. In a bid to support Indian farmers, Central Government has raised import tax on crude and refined palm oil to the highest level in more than a decade. What is the % increase?
1. Crude palm oil-44%, Refined palm oil-54%
2. Crude palm oil-42%, Refined palm oil-52%
3. Crude palm oil-40%, Refined palm oil-50%
4. Crude palm oil-38%, Refined palm oil-48%
5. Crude palm oil-36%, Refined palm oil-46%
Answer – 1. Crude palm oil-44%, Refined palm oil-54%
Explanation :
In a bid to support Indian farmers, Central Government has raised import tax on crude and refined palm oil to the highest level in more than a decade.Import tax on crude palm oil has been raised to 44 percent from 30 percent while for refined palm oil, it has been raised to 54 percent from 40 percent. Higher import tax would lift oilseed prices, which would encourage domestic supply for crushing. This situation will not just help Indian farmers, but would also limit the edible oil imports in the 2017/18 marketing year, that started from November 1, 2017. In context of this news, it is important to note that India is the world’s biggest importer of edible oils. India relies on imports for 70 percent of its edible oil consumption.
4. Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Mahesh Sharma, informed Rajya Sabha that headquarters of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has been shifted from Chennai to __?
1. Ballabhgarh
2. Kurukshetra
3. Mewat
4. Gurgaon
5. Chandigarh
Answer – 1. Ballabhgarh
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Mahesh Sharma, informed Rajya Sabha that headquarters of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has been shifted from Chennai to Haryana’s Ballabhgarh. The reason cited behind shifting the headquarters is to ensure better coordination between the environment ministry and the board. AWBI is a statutory advisory body established in 1962 under The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act,1960. It advises the Government of India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on matters of animal welfare. Well-known humanitarian Rukmini Devi Arundale was instrumental in setting up the board and was its first chair.
5. In which state of India, the food processing centre will be launched, in collaboration with Israel?
1. Assam
2. Manipur
3. Meghalaya
4. Mizoram
5. Bihar
Answer – 4. Mizoram
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, launched the social media of “Namaste Shalom”, a magazine on India-Israel relations. The magazine ‘Namaste Shalom’ is edited by Tarun Vijay, former MP. Mr. Daniel Carmon, Israeli Ambassador to India, and other officials were also present on the occasion. Dr Jitendra Singh said that, a food processing centre in collaboration with Israel will be launched in Aizwal, Mizoram on 7th March 2018. The centre has been established at a cost of Rs 8-10 crore. This centre has been set up exclusively for processing of citrus fruits. This is the first such centre with Israeli collaboration in the North East region. This centre has been established through tripartite collaboration of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Government of Israel and State Government of Mizoram.
6. On 8th March 2018, Ananthkumar, Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, announced the launch of ‘Suvidha’, the 100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Pad. This pad will be offered for Rs._ per pad?
1. 2
2. 2.50
3. 4
4. 4.50
5. 5.50
Answer – 2. 2.50
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
On 8th March 2018, Ananthkumar, Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, announced the launch of ‘Suvidha’, the 100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Pad. The ‘Suvidha’ napkin is launched under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). They will be available at allJanaushadhi Kendras in India by 28th May 2018 (World Menstrual Hygiene Day). The ‘Suvidha’ pads will be offered for Rs. 2.50 per pad. They can be availed at more than 3200 Janaushadhi Kendras. This has been introduced to ensure ‘Swachhta, Swasthya and Suvidha’ for the underprivileged women of India. This initiative has been taken by the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
7. World Kidney Day is celebrated annually throughout the world on the ___?
1. First Thursday of March
2. Second Thursday of March
3. First Tuesday of March
4. Second Tuesday of March
5. First Wednesday of March
Answer – 2. Second Thursday of March
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
World Kidney Day is celebrated annually throughout the world on the second Thursday of March. This year it met with the International Women’s Day and falls on March 8. World Kidney Day is a global
awareness campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys and how it’s related to our overall health. The objective of the day is to not just spread awareness about kidney diseases and its cure, but also spread how kidney diseases can be prevented. The theme of World Kidney Day 2018 is “Kidneys And Women’s Health: Include, Value, Empower”. The celebration was initiated by the joint committee of “International Society of Nephrology and International Federation of Kidney Foundations” and was first observed by 66 countries in 2006.
8. Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2018 is held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This MSME International Trade Fair 2018 focused mainly on which sector?
1. Food Processing Sector
2. IT Sector
3. Agricultural Sector
4. Infrastructure Sector
5. Service Sector
Answer – 1. Food Processing Sector
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2018 is held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2018 focuses mainly on food processing sector. The trade fair was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Over 500 domestic and international delegates will take part in the trade fair. Odisha MSME Minister Prafulla Samal said that, 35 delegates from Iran, Bangladesh, Korea and Germany will take part in the trade fair. The trade fair will present over 350 stalls with 6 pavilions. The theme pavilion has been allotted for food processing sector. Pavillion-1 has been allotted for international exhibitors and central public sector undertakings (CPSUs).
9. Which state announced the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Kosh’ scheme that will offer pension to unmarried women above 50 years of age?
1. Maharashtra
2. Gujarat
3. Odisha
4. Goa
5. Madhya Pradesh
Answer – 5. Madhya Pradesh
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Kosh’ scheme that will offer pension to unmarried women above 50 years of age. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced this scheme on the occasion of International Women’s Day. The ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Kosh’ will offer pension to women who are not married and have crossed the age of 50 years.
10. In which city of Uttar Pradesh, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation along with the UP Government organized a Women’s Convention called Swachh Shakti 2018?
1. Agra
2. Kanpur
3. Lucknow
4. Allahabad
5. Varanasi
Answer – 3. Lucknow
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
On the occasion of International Women’s Day,The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, in association with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, organized a Women’s Convention called Swachh Shakti 2018 at Lucknow. Swachh Shakti 2018 has been hosted by Uttarpradesh Government. 8000 women sarpanches, 3000 women Swachhagrahis and women champions from across the country were recognised for their outstanding contribution towards making a Swachh Bharat. The event included a special exhibition, launch of a film celebrating Swachh Shakti and flagging off of 30 Swachhata Raths that will travel across the State, spreading the message of sanitation at the grassroots. The Union Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Sushri Uma Bharti, complimented the commitment made by the Uttar Pradesh government to make the State Open Defecation Free (ODF) by October 2018.
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
11. Which state launched Women Entrepreneurship Hub (WE- Hub), India’s first state-led incubator exclusively for women entrepreneurs?
1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Madhya Pradesh
3. Maharashtra
4. Odisha
5. Telangana
Answer – 5. Telangana
Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018
Explanation :
Government of Telangana launched Women Entrepreneurship Hub (WE- Hub) in Hyderabad. WE-Hub is India’s first state-led incubator exclusively for women entrepreneurs. WE-HUB will promote women-led, women-owned enterprises in Telangana. It is a platform which is open to all kinds of innovations including a tech start-up, a start-up in social innovation or an idea which is completely and radically different. It will encourage women from rural and urban backgrounds helping them achieve being independent and overcome the societal barriers.
12. Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) has introduced ‘Vikas She Plus’, a loan scheme for women to help them with new ventures and for expanding or modifying their existing businesses. This bank will offer loan upto Rs. __?
1. Rs 6 lakh
2. Rs 5 lakh
3. Rs 4 lakh
4. Rs 3 lakh
5. Rs 2 lakh
Answer – 5. Rs 2 lakh
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) has introduced ‘Vikas She Plus’, a loan scheme for women to help them with new ventures and for expanding or modifying their existing businesses. The Vikas She Plus scheme offers loan up to a maximum of Rs 2 lakh. Repayment period for the loan is 60 months under this scheme. KVGB aims to reach out to 5,000 women entrepreneurs under the ‘Vikas She Plus’ scheme by the end of this financial year. KVGB has stated that, it has offered loans amounting to Rs 22 crore to nearly 2,500 women on the day the scheme was launched itself.
13. Which Indian state was named the best performing State in terms of allotting jobs and utilising funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) according to data provided by the Minister of State for Rural Development, Ram Kripal Yadav in Rajya Sabha?
1. Odisha
2. Gujarat
3. West Bengal
4. Uttar Pradesh
5. Assam
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Answer – 3. West Bengal
Explanation:
According to data provided by the Minister of State for Rural Development, Ram Kripal Yadav in Rajya Sabha, West Bengal is the best performing State in terms of allotting jobs and utilising funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). For 2017-18, West Bengal has so far spent more than Rs. 7335.31 crore and has generated more than 28.21 crore work days under MGNREGA. West Bengal is followed by Tamil Nadu (TN) which has spent Rs. 5981.75 crore and has generated 22.17 crore work days during 2017-18, so far. Goa ranked at the bottom, with spending Rs. 2.47 crore and generating just 94000 work days under the scheme.
14. Name the village from Jharkhand district, that has become the first ‘alcohol-free’ village in the state?
1. Bokaro
2. Chatra
3. Deoghar
4. Banlotwa
5. Garhwa
Answer – 4. Banlotwa
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
Banlotwa has become the first ‘alcohol-free’ village in Ranchi district of Jharkhand. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das lauded the residents of the village for achieving this feat and has given Rs 1 lakh cash to the village head of Banlotwa. It is to be noted that, two years ago, Raghubar Das had announced that any village becoming alcohol-free would be given Rs. 1 lakh for its development. Mr. Das stated that people of Banlotwa have joined hands to make the village ‘nasa mukt’ (alcohol-free). Even Jharkhand state government wants to ensure greater participation of the people in bringing about change and development.
15. Which state’s forest department has recently launched an app to track and fight forest fires during summer?
1. Odisha
2. Maharashtra
3. Gujarat
4. Punjab
5. Jharkhand
Answer – 1. Odisha
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
Odisha forest department has launched an app to track and fight forest fires during summer, recently. This app was launched on 3rd March 2018. Also, a Whatsapp group named ‘Forest Fire Alert’ has been formed for sharing information on tracking, preventing and fighting forest fires between forest officials and local people who help the forest officials. The Forest Survey of India (FSI) monitors the forests and when there is a fire, information is send to state forest department.Forest officials reach the spot and photos are uploaded in the Whatsapp group and app. This ensures that, officials reach the spot without fail.
16. The Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has granted environmental clearance to which state, to set up an India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project?
1. Kerala
2. Karnataka
3. Gujarat
4. Tamil Nadu
5. Telangana
Answer – 4. Tamil Nadu
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has granted environmental clearance for setting up India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project at Bodi West hills in Theni district of Tamil Nadu. In November 2017, Tamil Nadu State Expert Appraisal Committee had observed that proposed site forms part of the catchment area of various streams that contribute to the Vaigai watershed. Among these, most important condition is to obtain Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) consent to establish and operate the project. The INO project, jointly supported by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Department of Science and Technology (DST) envisages building a world class underground laboratory to study properties of neutrinos (subatomic particles produced by the decay of radioactive elements).
17. India currently offers __ quantity of bio-fuel and bio-energy business to the world?
1. 1 lakh crore
2. 50 lakh crore
3. 100 crores
4. 1 lakh
5. 50 lakhs
Answer – 1. 1 lakh crore
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
On March 14, 2018, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the first edition of Delhi Energy Dialogue (DED) 2018 in New Delhi. The dialogue was organised by Ashden India Collective (AIC) in alliance with the Climate Parliament and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). While inaugurating the dialogue, Mr. Pradhan stated that India is a happening place for energy as every day 40 million people are going to hydrocarbon retail points to meet their demand and 190 million people are getting the benefit of subsidies. He also added that by 2040, India’s energy consumption will grow by compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4 per cent and India currently offers 1 lakh crore of bio-fuel and bio-energy business to the world.
18. In which Indian city, Three-day annual Krishi Unnati Mela, focusing on ‘doubling farmers’ income’ began at?
1. Mumbai
2. Kanpur
3. Ahmadabad
4. Allahabad
5. New Delhi
Answer – 5. New Delhi
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
Three-day annual Krishi Unnati Mela, focusing on ‘doubling farmers’ income’ began in New Delhi on March 16, 2018. The objective of Krishi Unnati Mela is to create awareness among farmers about latest agriculture related developments. Farmers and agri-scientists from various parts of India will be attending this Mela. 800 stalls displaying latest agriculture and allied sector technologies have been set up at the venue of Krishi Unnati Mela. A theme pavilion on doubling of farmers income, organic farming, cooperatives, farm inputs, has also been set up to familiarise farmers with the latest developments in the farming techniques.
19. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun and Technology Information, Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC), New Delhi signed an MoU for providing livelihood opportunities and augment income for which community people?
1. Agriculture based community
2. Tribal based community
3. Sikh community
4. Forest based community
5. Gupta community
Answer – 4. Forest based community
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On March 20, 2018, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun and Technology Information, Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC), New Delhi signed an MoU for providing livelihood opportunities and augment income of the forest based communities. ICFRE is an Autonomous Council under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change while TIFAC is an Autonomous Council under Department of Science and Technology. The MoU was signed in presence of Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Harsh Vardhan in New Delhi. As per the terms of the MoU, TIFAC shall help ICFRE to refine and up-scale the technologies that have been developed and make it accessible to the end users including farmers and other stakeholders.
20. Which state government gave its in-principle approval for adopting the Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) for horticulture crops such as apple and saffron in the state?
1. Maharashtra
2. Madhya Pradesh
3. Gujarat
4. Karnataka
5. Jammu and Kashmir
Answer – 5. Jammu and Kashmir
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) cabinet gave its in-principle approval for adopting the Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) for horticulture crops such as apple and saffron in the state. Decision in this regard was taken at State Cabinet meeting chaired by J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Under RWBCIS, farmers will be provided insurance coverage and financial support in the event of failure of any of the notified crops due to adverse weather incidences. It is to be noted that RWBCIS will be in addition to Central Government’s Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
21. Which Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare to conduct skill development training programmes for agriculture and allied sector?
1. Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
2. Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
3. Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
4. Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry
5. Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs
Answer – 3. Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to conduct skill development training programmes for agriculture and allied sector. As per the terms of the MoU, skill development training programmes will be conducted on a regular basis at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs). The MoU will be instrumental in achieving government’s goal of developing agriculture as a private enterprise so that it attracts more youth. Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan Singh has expressed hope that this MoU will contribute in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of Kaushal Bharat-Kushal Bharat.
22. What is the theme for International Day of Forests 2018?
1. Protect Forests
2. Support Linguistic Diversity
3. Forests and Sustainable Cities
4. Forests and Animals
5. Plant Trees Go Green
Answer – 3. Forests and Sustainable Cities
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On 21st March 2018, International Day of Forests was observed all over the world. When: 21 March was declared as the International Day of Forests by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012.
Why: This day acts as a platform to create awareness on the importance of all types of woodlands and trees.
Activities such as tree-planting, art, photo and film exhibitions are held on this day themed around forests. Theme for International Day of Forests 2018: Forests and Sustainable Cities.
23. KUSUM scheme is related to which of the following?
1. Solar Power Plants
2. Animal Husbandry
3. Farmers
4. 1&2
5. 1&3
Answer – 5. 1&3
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
On March 15, 2018, R.K. Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Power and New & Renewable Energy informed Lok Sabha that Central Government is in the process of formulating a ‘Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM)’ scheme. KUSUM scheme envisages, installation of grid-connected solar power plants each of capacity up to 2 MW in the rural areas and installation of standalone off-grid solar water pumps to fulfill irrigation needs of farmers not connected to grid. It will also provide for solarization of existing grid-connected agriculture pumps to make farmers independent of grid supply. Under KUSUM, farmers will be able to sell surplus solar power generated to power distribution companies (DISCOMs) and get extra income. Besides, KUSUM is also aimed at solarization of tube-wells and lift irrigation projects of Government sector. Details on funds to be allocated and mode of implementation will be decided at the time of approval of the Scheme.
24. Which state’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra has been named the best such centre in India for its initiatives like nutrition gardens and integrated farming techniques?
1. Meghalaya
2. Punjab
3. Rajasthan
4. Chhattisgarh
5. Gujarat
Answer – 4. Chhattisgarh
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
Chhattisgarh’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra has been named the best such centre in India for its initiatives like nutrition gardens and integrated farming techniques. The Krishi Vigyan Kendra is located in Kanker district of Chhattisgarh. It is affiliated to the IGKV (Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya). It has been named the best of the 650 agriculture science centres in India. Dr S K Patil, vice chancellor of IGKV in Raipur, and Birbal Sahu, coordinator of Kanker Krishi Vigyan Kendra, received the ‘Pt Deendayal Upadhyay Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Award-2017’ from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17th March 2018 in New Delhi. The award consists of a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh for infrastructure development and a citation certificate. The centre has taken initiatives like nutrition garden, integrated farming system and promoting the production of ‘Kadaknath’ chicken.
25. Which fruit was declared as official fruit of Kerala?
1. Apple
2. Orange
3. Papaya
4. Jackfruit
5. Strawberry
Answer – 4. Jackfruit
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On 21st March 2018, the jackfruit was declared as official fruit of Kerala. An official announcement on this regard was made by Kerala Agriculture minister V S Sunil Kumar in the Kerala state assembly. This decision was taken based on a proposal made by the Kerala Agriculture Department. This has been done in a move to promote the ‘Kerala jackfruit’ as a brand in markets all over India and abroad. The agricultural office in Ambalavayil in Wayanad is to be used for jackfruit research. The state animal of Kerala is ‘Elephant’. The state bird of Kerala is ‘great hornbill’. The state flower of Kerala is ‘kanikkonna’.
26. Which State government’s Animal Husbandry Department has inked a MoU with Bharat Financial Inclusion Ltd (BFIL) to launch ‘Pashu Dhan Sanjeevani – 1962’, an animal healthcare programme in the state?
1. Kerala
2. Karnataka
3. Madhya Pradesh
4. Telangana
5. Gujarat
Answer – 3. Madhya Pradesh
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation
The Madhya Pradesh Animal Husbandry Department has inked a MoU with Bharat Financial Inclusion Ltd (BFIL) to launch ‘Pashu Dhan Sanjeevani – 1962’, an animal healthcare programme. The MoU was signed in the presence of Madhya Pradesh Animal Husbandry Minister Antar Singh Arya and BFIL CEO and MD Geoff Woolley. The ‘Pashu Dhan Sanjeevani – 1962’ is claimed to be the first of its kind initiative by any state government in India. This programme offers animal owners a range of veterinary services. They just have to dial the toll-free helpline number 1962. Veterinary services like emergency treatment,
on-demand artificial insemination, vaccination and deworming will be offered at the doorstep of farmers. This will be of great use to farmers who find it difficult to bring their cattle to the health centres. The IT ecosystem for this programme has been developed by BFIL. The service delivery process will be monitored through the ‘Bharat Sanjeevani’ software and a mobile app exclusively developed for doctors, veterinary field officers and artificial insemination technicians.
27. When is World Meteorological Day celebrated all over the world?
1. 19th March
2. 20th March
3. 21st March
4. 22nd March
5. 23rd March
Answer – 5. 23rd March
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On 23rd March 2018, World Meteorological Day was celebrated all over the world. The World Meteorological Day is observed every year on 23 March. This day is celebrated to commemorate the formation of World Meteorological Organisation, which was founded on 23 March 1950. The WMO originated from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO). WMO acts as specialized agency of the United Nations for (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences. The theme for World Meteorological Day 2018 is: “Weather-Ready, Climate-Smart.” This year focuses on the importance of countries being weather-ready.
28. Which Indian city hosted the 5th India Maize Summit was held in Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)?
1. New Delhi
2. Mumbai
3. Kolkata
4. Chennai
5. Pune
Answer – 1. New Delhi
Explanation:
On 23rd March 2018, the 5th India Maize Summit was held in Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), New Delhi. The India Maize Summit 2018 was organized by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The India Maize Summit has been conducted since 2013. The India Maize Summit aims to provide a common platform to all stakeholders to highlight the opportunities in maize and discuss on actions that are required to improve the market. Union Agriculture Minister, Radha Mohan Singh presented the inaugural address at the event.
29. Which state government presented a ‘green budget’ aimed at controlling pollution and monitoring its impact on the environment?
1. Uttar Pradesh
2. Maharashtra
3. Delhi
4. Karnataka
5. Sikkim
Answer – 3. Delhi
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On March 22, 2018, Delhi government presented a ‘green budget’ aimed at controlling pollution and monitoring its impact on the environment. Rs. 53000 crore Budget for fiscal 2018-19 was unveiled by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia (Aam Aadmi Party). Mr. Sisodia highlighted that, under Delhi Budget 2018-19, 26 programmes and schemes of transport, power, environment and PWD will be threaded together for devising a unified system of pollution control. The 26 initiatives include procuring 1000 electric buses, subsidies to restaurants to replace coal tandoors with electricity- or gas-based tandoors and undertaking a joint study with University of Washington to explore the possibility of using technology to ascertain the source of air pollution at designated spots. Rs 846 crore has been allocated to Public Works Department (PWD) for 2018-19 fiscal for executing several initiatives including landscaping of PWD roads to reduce dust and installation of LED street lights. It is to be noted that 26 per cent of 2018-19 budgetary allocation is towards education, 12 per cent for health and 11 per cent for infrastructure development.
30. Which state has won the National ‘Water Digest Award’ for Water Conservation-Diversion and increasing the irrigation capacity in the state?
1. Punjab
2. Uttarkhand
3. Jharkhand
4. Chhattisgarh
5. Telangana
Answer – 4. Chhattisgarh
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
Chhattisgarh has won the National ‘Water Digest Award’ for Water Conservation-Diversion and increasing the irrigation capacity in Chhattisgarh. On 21st March 2018, Union Minister of State for Water Resources Arjun Ram Megwal presented the award to Chhattisgarh Water Resources Department Secretary Sonmoni Borah, in New Delhi. ‘Water Digest’ magazine gives away this award every year. Chhattisgarh was presented this award for improving irrigation capacity, community participation, water management, water diversion, water conservation, work on inter-linking of rivers, enhancement of irrigation facilities, etc. This award is presented in association with Central Water Resources River Development and Ganga Cleaning Ministry, UNESCO, Central Water Board, Central Water Commission and Ganga Purification National Mission. The award is recognised by the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). This is the first time Chhattisgarh Water Resources Department has received a national award.
31. In which state, India’s first insect museum was inaugurated?
1. Kerala
2. Tamil Nadu
3. Karnataka
4. Odisha
5. Goa
Answer – 2. Tamil Nadu
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
On March 26, 2018, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswamy, unveiled an insect museum at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore. The museum is fully dedicated to insects and claimed to be the first of its kind in India. It has been set up over 6691 sqft area at the cost of Rs. 5 crore. Insects preserved as specimens and also live ones, depicting different developmental stages are displayed at this museum. The lobby of this insect museum depicts the theme, “BUGS ARE KINGS”. The museum has state-of-the-art amenities including a mini auditorium to screen insect movies and documentary films.
32. As per findings of National Annual Rural Sanitation Survey (NARSS) 2017-18, _% households in Indian villages have access to toilets are using them?
1. 75%
2. 82%
3. 86%
4. 90%
5. 93%
Answer – 5. 93%
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation:
As per findings of National Annual Rural Sanitation Survey (NARSS) 2017-18, about 77% homes in rural areas of India have got toilets and over 93 per cent households in villages who have access to toilets are using them. NARSS 2017-18, was conducted by an independent verification agency selected by Union Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the World Bank support project to the Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G). The survey was conducted between mid-November 2017 to mid-March 2018 and covered 92040 households in 6136 villages of India. The survey also re-confirmed the Open Defecation Free (ODF) status of about 96% of villages which were declared and verified as ODF by various districts and states. The report outlined that 70% of the villages surveyed had minimal litter and minimal stagnant water.
33. Which state has got Geographical Indications (GI) tag for Kadaknath, a chicken breed whose black meat is in demand in certain regions of the state?
1. Goa
2. Maharashtra
3. Odisha
4. Bihar
5. Madhya Pradesh
Answer – 5. Madhya Pradesh
Explanation :
Madhya Pradesh has got Geographical Indications (GI) tag for Kadaknath, a chicken breed whose black meat is in demand in certain regions of the state.Kadaknath chicken’s protein-rich black meat is sold at a much higher price than other varieties of chicken. It is native to Jhabua, Alirajpur and parts of Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. The application for GI registration of Kadaknath Chicken was filed by Gramik Vikas Trust, Jhabua, in 2012.
34. In which state, Greentech Mega Food Park was inaugurated at a cost of Rs 113.57 crore?
1. Tamil Nadu
2. Rajasthan
3. Karnataka
4. West Bengal
5. Bihar
Answer – 2. Rajasthan
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
Explanation :
Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal inaugurated Rajasthan’s first mega food park M/s Greentech Mega Food Park Private Ltd, at Roopangarh Village in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The Greentech Mega Food Park has been established at a cost of Rs 113.57 crore. It will benefit nearly 25,000 farmers in that region. The park has been constructed in an area of 85.44 acres. It has central processing centre and 4 Primary Processing Centres (PPCs) at Jaipur, Nagaur, Tonk and Churu. The park will have facilities for primary processing and storage near the farms. The Central Processing Centre (CPC) will have facilities like Cold Storage, Deep Freeze, Dry Warehouse for Raw Materials, Dry Warehouse for Finished Goods, Pack House, Steam Generator etc. She said that the Park will offer direct and indirect employment to over 5,000 persons.
Some MCQs for practice(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
35. CCEA has approved a proposal to double the guarantee to NAFED to help it obtain higher credit from banks, to?
A) Rs 27,000 crore
B) Rs 8,000 crore
C) Rs 32,000 crore
D) Rs 19,000 crore
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
36. 27th Technological Conference of Indian Jute Industries’ Research Association (IJIRA) was recently held on the theme “Shaping the Future of Jute”, in?
A) New Delhi
B) Mumbai
C) Chennai
D) Kolkata
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
37. Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal recently inaugurated Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park in?
A) Kolkapur
B) Satara
C) Nashik
D) Sangli
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
38. India has raised import tax on crude palm oil from 30% to?
A) 51%
B) 45%
C) 35%
D) 44%
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
39. CCEA approved promotion of agricultural mechanisation for management of crop residue at an outlay of?
A) Rs 1152 crore
B) Rs 3719 crore
C) Rs 2846 crore
D) Rs 1373 crore
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
40. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched National Nutrition Mission and expansion of ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign in?
A) Kota
B) Jhunjhunu
C) Dausa
D) Nagaur
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
41. Who headed the Executive Committee meeting held under the ‘POSHAN Abhiyaan’?
A) A.K. Dhasmana
B) Rakesh Srivastava
C) Bhaskar Khulbe
D) Inderjit Singh
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
42. Krishi Unnati Mela recently began in?
A) Hisar
B) Lucknow
C) New Delhi
D) Patiala
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
43. CCEA has recently approved to continue the Urea Subsidy Scheme, at an estimated cost of Rs 1,64,935 crore, upto?
A) 2019-20
B) 2021-22
C) 2020-21
D) 2018-19
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
44. Which of the following has received the ‘Pt Deendayal Upadhyay Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Award-2017’?
A) Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chhattisgarh
B) National Academy of Agricultural Sciences
C) College of Agriculture, Vellayani
D) Institute of Agriculture Science, Kolkata
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
45. Commerce Ministry has removed the export duty on which of the following product?
A) Milk
B) Pulses
C) Wheat
D) Sugar
(Agriculture Current Affairs March 2018)
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