Recently, the Andhra Pradesh government abolished the garbage tax introduced by the YSRCP government, which had faced significant public criticism. What was the maximum monthly expense incurred by the state for garbage collection services before the tax was repealed?

The Andhra Pradesh government abolished the garbage tax, citing its financial and public burden. The following are key details regarding the monthly expenses: Garbage Collection Costs: The state allocated a monthly budget ranging from ₹51,641 to ₹62,964 for service providers across municipalities. Total Expense: This allocation led to a maximum monthly expenditure of approximately ₹13.9 crore. Policy Change: The tax repeal aligned with the NDA’s pre-election promise, addressing public dissatisfaction and redirecting focus on efficient waste management without overburdening citizens financially.

25th November 2024 Current Affairs (Daily GK Update)

Table of Contents

National News

Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches VISION Portal to Empower Underprivileged Youth

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the VISION Portal (Viksit Bharat Initiative for Student Innovation and Outreach Network) on 21 November 2024 in New Delhi. Developed by the Utsav Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Gurugram, the portal aims to uplift underprivileged youth through education, skill development, and sustainable livelihoods. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience by funding student internships and fostering innovation.

PM Modi Graces Odisha Parba 2024 in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Odisha Parba 2024 celebrations held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi. Organized by the Odia Samaj from November 22-24, this flagship event highlighted Odisha’s vibrant cultural, social, and political heritage. The Prime Minister’s address celebrated Odisha’s legacy, its historical contributions, and its promising future.

State News

Hemant Soren to Take Oath as Jharkhand CM on Nov 28

Hemant Soren is set to take oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand on November 28, following his meeting with Governor Santosh Kumar Gangawar to stake his claim to form the government. This follows the victory of the INDIA bloc, comprising Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and CPI (ML), in the recent state elections. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at Morabadi ground in Ranchi, marking the beginning of a new political chapter in the state.

Andhra Pradesh Government Abolishes Garbage Tax

The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has approved a bill on November 21, 2024, to abolish the garbage tax introduced by the previous YSRCP government. The decision, championed by Municipal Administration Minister P. Narayana, aims to alleviate financial pressure on citizens and investigate alleged contractor benefits linked to the tax. This move reflects a significant policy reversal and highlights concerns over the previous government’s methods of waste management funding.

Gyan-Kumbh 2024 Auroville’s Transformative Ideas Unveiled

Gyan-Kumbh 2024, a prominent educational event organized by Siksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, took place at Pondicherry University from November 21st to 23rd, 2024. The event provided a platform for various educational institutions and organizations to showcase their work, and Auroville Foundation took a significant step by presenting its transformative vision and philosophy.

Defence News

Navika Sagar Parikrama-II INSV Tarini Begins Second Leg of Global Voyage

The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini embarked on the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (NSP-II) on November 24, 2024. The expedition, which was flagged off by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, on October 2, 2024, aims to circumnavigate the globe with a two-woman naval crew. Sailing from Fremantle, Australia, to Lyttelton, New Zealand, this leg spans 3,400 nautical miles and highlights India’s commitment to gender equality, maritime cooperation, and women’s empowerment.

Banking News

IndusInd Bank and UNICEF Join Forces for Climate Resilience in India

IndusInd Bank and UNICEF have launched a strategic initiative under the bank’s flagship CSR program, focusing on Disaster Resilient Communities and Climate Risk-Informed Efficient Administrative Systems. The collaboration aims to enhance climate-informed administrative frameworks and strengthen resilience against climate-induced disasters across five aspirational districts in India—Dharashiv (Maharashtra), Begusarai (Bihar), Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), Baran (Rajasthan), and Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh). This program, part of IndusInd Bank’s Holistic Rural Development initiative, aligns with its commitment to uplifting communities and fostering environmental sustainability.

Appointments News

Pankaj Tripathi Appointed Festival Ambassador for Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024

In a remarkable recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema and the performing arts, acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi has been appointed as the festival ambassador for the Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024, a prestigious international theatre festival. This marks a significant moment for both the actor and the festival, as Pankaj Tripathi’s appointment underscores the growing cultural recognition of Arunachal Pradesh and its thriving arts scene.

RBI, Maldives Monetary Authority Pact to Enhance Trade with Local Currencies

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for promoting the use of local currencies—the Indian Rupee (INR) and Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)—in cross-border transactions. Signed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and MMA Governor Ahmed Munawar, the MoU aims to facilitate bilateral trade, reduce transaction costs, and optimize settlement times by allowing exporters and importers to invoice and settle payments in their respective domestic currencies.

Ranks & Reports News

India Among Top 10 Countries for AI Readiness

India has emerged as a top contender in Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness, ranking among the top 10 globally, as per the Boston Consulting Group’s (BCG) report. The country secures the second position in AI specialist talent and third in research publications, reflecting its growing expertise and innovation. The report evaluates AI readiness in 73 nations, focusing on public service enhancements through AI integration.

Science and Technology News

New Giant Radio Galaxy Discovered by MeerKAT

An international team of astronomers led by Kathleen Charlton from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, has used the MeerKAT radio telescope to discover a new giant radio galaxy (GRG) in the Cosmological Evolution Survey (COSMOS) field. This discovery was detailed in a research paper published on November 11, 2024. Giant radio galaxies are rare, colossal structures known for their immense size and powerful emissions.

The newly identified galaxy, MGTC J100022.85+031520.4, has remarkable properties that contribute to the study of galaxy evolution and radio source formation.

Sports News

North-East United FC Clinches Governor’s Gold Cup Victory

The 40th edition of the Governor’s Gold Cup International Football Tournament reached its thrilling climax on 24th November, 2024 at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok. NorthEast United FC emerged victorious after a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout win over Gangtok Himalayan SC, adding another memorable chapter to the tournament’s legacy. The final match, attended by Sikkim’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Governor Shri Om Prakash Mathur, showcased the competitive spirit and sportsmanship of both teams.

Reetika Hooda Strikes Gold at World Military Championships

In a remarkable feat for Indian wrestling, Reetika Hooda clinched the gold medal in the women’s 76kg category at the World Military Championships, becoming the second Indian woman to win gold at the event. This achievement comes on the heels of Jyoti Sihag’s triumph in the 55kg category, marking a momentous debut for India’s women’s contingent at the prestigious tournament.

Antonsen Triumphs at China Masters 2024

On November 24, 2024, Anders Antonsen became the first Danish player to win the men’s singles title at the China Masters, defeating Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie in straight games (21-15, 21-13). The victory marked Antonsen’s fourth BWF Tour title of 2024, further solidifying his position atop the Race to Finals rankings. Christie, despite the loss, secured his place in next month’s BWF Tour Finals in Huangzhou, China.

Important Days News

IPL 2025 Auction: Rishabh Pant Becomes Most Expensive Buy

The stage is set for the IPL 2025 season, with the mega auction becoming a high-stakes battlefield where franchises have splurged unprecedented amounts to secure their dream teams. The auction’s first day, held in Jeddah, witnessed historic deals, marquee player signings, and strategic acquisitions. With teams spending a staggering ₹467 crore on 72 players, anticipation is soaring for the second day of the event.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2024

November 25 is observed annually as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day calls upon governments, international organizations, and civil society to raise awareness and promote actions to combat violence against women and girls worldwide. In 2024, the observance marks 25 years since the UN’s official designation of the day, coupled with a UN Women-led campaign to launch a new report and highlight best practices for eliminating violence against women and girls.