Latest news with #SantiagoPeñaPalacios
Indian Express
4 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on G7, Bank of International Settlements and more (Week 113)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on International Relations to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holder: 1. is essentially a foreign passport holder. 2. can get a life-long visa for visiting India. 3. not exempted from registration with local police authority for any length of stay in the country. 4. The United Kingdom has the maximum number of registered OCI card holders. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 3 and 4 only Explanation — British-Indian academic and author Nitasha Kaul, who teaches at the University of Westminster in London, said that her Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status has been cancelled. What is OCI? — The OCI scheme, which was implemented in August 2005, allows for the registration of all Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who were citizens of India on January 26, 1950, or later, or who were eligible to become citizens of India on that date. — An OCI card bearer, essentially a foreign passport holder, is granted a multiple-entry, multi-purpose life-long visa for visiting India and is exempt from registration with local police authorities for any duration of stay in the country. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct and statement 3 is not correct. — According to government figures, there were over 45 lakh registered OCI card holders from 129 countries in 2023. The United States led the list with more than 16.8 lakh OCI card holders, followed by the United Kingdom (9.34 lakh), Australia (4.94 lakh), and Canada (4.18 lakh). Hence, statement 4 is not correct. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which of the following countries are members of the South American trading bloc 'MERCOSUR'? 1. Brazil 2. Chile 3. Paraguay 4. Uruguay Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (b) 1, 2 and 4 (c) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 3 and 4 Explanation — The visiting President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña Palacios, was told by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the two countries are 'united in the fight against terrorism' and can work together to combat 'shared challenges' like cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. — India and Paraguay are unified in their fight against terrorism. There is enormous potential for collaboration in combating common threats such as cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. — The Prime Minister also mentioned New Delhi's advantageous trade relationship with the South American trading bloc MERCOSUR, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Uruguay. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. With reference to the Indian tourists in the Philippines, consider the following statements: 1. There has been a decline in Indian tourists visiting the archipelago over the past few years. 2. The number of Indian nationals visiting the archipelago in 2024 decreased year-on-year and was approximately 50 per cent lower than the 2022 levels. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation — Air India, part of the Tata Group, has announced that non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila would begin on October 1, connecting the Indian and Philippine capitals for the first time in almost a decade. Philippine Airlines discontinued non-stop flights between India and the Philippines in 2013, citing poor demand. — The declaration by Air India follows the Philippines' decision to waive visa requirements for Indian tourists for up to 14 days, joining other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Malaysia. — The Philippines, which has some of the best beaches and beautiful islands, has experienced a significant increase in Indian visitors visiting the archipelago over the last few years. Hence, statement 1 is not correct. — According to figures from the Philippines' tourist authority, the number of Indian nationals visiting the archipelago in 2024 increased 12.4% year on year to around 79,000. The figure was around 53% greater than 2022 levels. Hence, statement 2 is not correct. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. With reference to the Group of Seven (G7), consider the following statements: 1. The Group was established as a platform for economic and financial cooperation in response to the 1973 energy crisis. 2. The European Union participates in the Group and is represented at the summits by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. 3. G7 host countries can not invite countries as guest countries or outreach partners. 4. The G7 expanded into the G8 between 1997 and 2013, with the inclusion of China. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Explanation — Hours after inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to this month's G7 meeting in Alberta, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney used India's status as the world's fifth-largest economy as justification for the invitation. Canada's action is viewed as a step towards mending relations between the two countries, which had suffered a dramatic decline under the former prime minister, Justin Trudeau. About G7 — The Group was established as a platform for economic and financial cooperation in response to the 1973 energy crisis. The first Summit of Heads of State and Government was held in 1975 in Rambouillet, France. Hence, statement 1 is correct. — The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal forum that includes Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The European Union also participates in the Group, and the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission attend the summits. Hence, statement 2 is correct. — The EU does not have the rotating chairmanship of the G7. — Between 1997 and 2013, the G7 evolved into the G8, which now includes Russia. However, Russia's participation was suspended in 2014 due to the unlawful annexation of Crimea. Hence, statement 4 is not correct. — Usually, G7 host countries invite some countries as guest countries or outreach partners. Canada had so far invited Ukraine and Australia. Hence, statement 3 is not correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. (Other Source: With reference to the Temporary Protected Status (TPS), consider the following statements: 1. It is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of certain countries experiencing problems that make it difficult or unsafe for their nationals to be deported there. 2. Recently, the US has terminated the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provided to Nepal. 3. It provides a work permit and protection from deportation to foreign nationals from those countries who are in the United States at the time the U.S. government makes the designation. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Explanation — According to a media source, the United States has terminated Nepal's Temporary Protected Status (TPS) following the 2015 earthquake. Hence, statement 2 is correct. — TPS allows immigrants from designated countries who do not have another legal status to stay in the United States for up to 18 months and obtain lawful work authorisation if their social circumstances prevent them from returning safely. — TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of certain countries who face issues that make deportation difficult or risky. Hence, statement 1 is correct. — It is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of particular countries who are experiencing an ongoing armed conflict, an environmental disaster, or extreme and temporary circumstances. It grants foreign citizens from those nations a work permit and protection from deportation if they are in the United States at the time the government announces the designation. Hence, statement 3 is correct. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. (Other Source: With reference to Golden Dome missile defence system, consider the following statements: 1. It is inspired by Israel's much lauded Iron Dome system — a short-range, ground-to-air, air defence system. 2. It has been in the news since Russia used it against Ukraine, which ultimately led to NATO's sanctions. Which of the statements given above is/are true? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation — US President Donald Trump has offered the 'Golden Dome' missile defence system for free to Canada, which had shown interest after the Republican leader announced it but added a rider that Ottawa can have it without paying any charge 'if it becomes part of the US' 51st State'. — First floated by Trump this January, the Golden Dome is inspired by Israel's much lauded Iron Dome system — a short-range, ground-to-air, air defence system. But it is far more ambitious in scale and scope, and seeks to integrate 'next-generation' technologies across land, sea, and even space. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer. With reference to the International Institute of Administrative Sciences, consider the following statements: 1. The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances has represented India as a Member State of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences since 1998. 2. The International Institute of Administrative Sciences is a Federation of 31 Member Countries. 3. While the IIAS is not a formally affiliated body of the UN, it actively engages with the UN's work in public administration. 4. In the 100 years history of IIAS, election to the post of President was held by ballot process in 2025 and it is the first time that India has secured the historic mandate for the Presidency of the IIAS. Which of the statements mentioned above is/are true? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Explanation — The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances has represented India as a Member State of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences since 1998. The International Institute of Administrative Sciences is a Federation of 31 Member Countries, 20 National Sections and 15 Academic Research Centres jointly collaborating for scientific research on public administration. Key member countries include – India, Japan, China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Mexico, Spain, Qatar, Morocco, Indonesia etc. — The IIAS maintains a close working relationship with the United Nations, and participates in the UN's Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) and the UN Public Administration Network (UNPAN). While the IIAS is not a formally affiliated body of the UN, it actively engages with the UN's work in public administration. — This is the first time in the 100 years history of IIAS that the election to the post of President was held by ballot process and it is the first time that India has secured the historic mandate for the Presidency of the IIAS. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. (Source: pib) With reference to Bank of International Settlements (BIS), consider the following statements: 1. It is owned by the European Union and it deals with countries from around the world that together account for about 95% of world GDP. 2. Its head office is in Basel, Switzerland. Which of the above given statements is/are true? 1 only 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation According to BIS website: — Established in 1930, the BIS is owned by 63 central banks, representing countries from around the world that together account for about 95% of world GDP. Its head office is in Basel, Switzerland and it has two representative offices: in Hong Kong SAR and in Mexico City, as well as Innovation Hub Centres around the world. Hence, statement 1 is not correct and statement 2 is correct. Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer. Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 113) Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 113) Daily subject-wise quiz — Science and Technology (Week 113) Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 113) Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment and Geography (Week 113) Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 112) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
The Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- The Wire
India's Clean Energy Expertise Fuels South America's Bioeconomy: Praj Industries to Collaborate with Enersur S.A. For a Biorefinery Project in Paraguay
Pune, Maharashtra, India – Business Wire India Enersur S.A., one of Paraguay's foremost renewable energy companies has selected Praj Industries for its next major project. Praj, a global leader in bioeconomy-driven process solutions, will support the development, assessment, and phased implementation of a fully integrated Biorefinery Project in Paraguay. The Biorefinery aims to produce, in addition to ethanol, co-products such as distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn oil, biogas, biobitumen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The two companies signed the agreement to this effect in the august presence of Mr. Santiago Peña Palacios, President of the Republic of Paraguay. The President, accompanied by a high-level delegation of ministers, senior officials, and business leaders, was on a State Visit to India from June 2 to 4, 2025. During the visit, the delegation recognized and appreciated India's advancements in indigenous technology and Praj's contribution to strengthen Paraguay's Bioeconomy sector. This comes on the back of the contract awarded to Praj by Enersur to design, supply, and commission a state-of-the-art 600 m³/day Anhydrous Ethanol plant in Canindeyú, Paraguay. This facility, which will use corn as feedstock, represents a significant step forward in Paraguay's commitment to clean energy and rural development, while also contributing to reduced reliance on fossil fuels. Praj's extensive scope of work includes process technology licensing, full-scale design and engineering, supply of core process equipment, and on-ground supervisory support. The plant is expected to be fully operational by October 2026. This initiative by Enersur is poised to create substantial direct and indirect employment, thereby promoting economic growth in rural Paraguay. It is a strong example of how renewable energy projects can power inclusive development while reducing carbon emissions. 'We are proud to collaborate with Enersur in shaping Paraguay's bioenergy landscape and accelerating the transition towards a sustainable bioeconomy,' said Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries. 'This partnership goes beyond ethanol—it embodies our shared vision to harness the full potential of bio-based innovations for clean energy, circular economy, and long-term energy resilience across South America.' 'We chose Praj as our partner because of their proven expertise, cutting-edge technology, and extensive experience in delivering large-scale bioenergy projects globally,' commented Mr. Omar Bustos, President Enersur S.A. 'Their strong track record in South America and commitment to sustainability perfectly align with our vision to develop Paraguay's bioeconomy and drive long-term rural and economic development through this landmark project.' Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña in New Delhi, where the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in key sectors. PM Modi emphasized India's readiness to work with Paraguay on enhancing agricultural productivity through advanced techniques and biotechnology, and emphasized the shared commitment to advancing renewable energy partnerships. As the world accelerates its transition to greener energy, this landmark project represents a major step forward for Paraguay while reinforcing Praj's strong and growing presence in South America. With over 100 references across the Americas—including the USA, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru —Praj continues to deliver cutting-edge, sustainable bioeconomy solutions across the region. In the photo, at the center : Mr. Santiago Peña Palacios, President of the Republic of Paraguay, flanked (from left) by Mr. Omar Bustos, President of Enersur S.A.; Mr. Ashish Gaikwad, MD–Designate, Praj Industries; Mr. Javier Giménez, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Paraguay; and Mr. Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, Praj Industries. About Praj Industries Limited Praj, India's most accomplished industrial biotech company, is driven by innovation, integration, and delivery capabilities. Over the past four decades, Praj has focused on environment, energy, and agri‐process industry, with more than 1000 customer references spanning more than 100 countries across six continents. Bio‐Mobility® and Bio‐Prism® are the mainstays of Praj's contribution to the global Bioeconomy. The Bio‐Mobility® platform offers technology solutions globally to produce the renewable transportation fuel, thus ensuring sustainable decarbonization through a circular bioeconomy. The Company's Bio‐Prism® portfolio comprises technologies to produce renewable chemicals and materials, promises sustainability while reimagining nature. Praj Matrix, the state‐of‐the‐art R&D facility, forms the backbone for the company's endeavours towards a clean energy‐based Bioeconomy. Praj's diverse portfolio comprises Bio‐energy solutions, Critical process equipment & skids, Breweries, Zero liquid discharge systems and High purity water systems. Led by accomplished and caring leadership, Praj is a socially responsible corporate citizen. Praj is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges of India. Website: To View the Image, Click on the Link Below: Praj Industries and Enersur SA representatives along with Mr. Santiago Peña Palacios, President of the Republic of Paraguay (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
Business Upturn
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Upturn
Praj Industries shares jump over 3% after company collaborates with Enersur S.A. for biorefinery project in Paraguay
By Aman Shukla Published on June 6, 2025, 10:20 IST Praj Industries stock rose over 3% in early trade after the company was selected by Paraguay-based renewable energy firm Enersur S.A. to support a major Biorefinery Project. This marks a significant step in Paraguay's clean energy transition and aligns with its sustainable rural development goals. The project, to be executed in phases, will produce ethanol and multiple co-products such as distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn oil, biogas, biobitumen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The agreement was signed in the presence of Paraguay President Santiago Peña Palacios during his State Visit to India (June 2–4, 2025). Praj's involvement follows a prior contract to design, supply, and commission a 600 m³/day Anhydrous Ethanol plant in Canindeyú, Paraguay, using corn as feedstock. The plant is expected to be fully operational by October 2026. Praj will provide technology licensing, engineering, key equipment, and project supervision. This collaboration is expected to create rural jobs and reduce Paraguay's fossil fuel reliance. It also highlights growing India–Paraguay cooperation in renewable energy and agri-tech. Praj Industries is steadily expanding in South America, with over 100 project references across the USA, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru. The latest development reinforces its position as a global leader in sustainable bioeconomy solutions. Praj Industries shares opened at ₹495.20 and climbed to an intraday high of ₹508.10, while the low touched ₹493.65. The stock remains significantly below its 52-week high of ₹875.00 but is trading above its 52-week low of ₹443.90. Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Stock market investments are subject to market risks. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions. Author or Business Upturn is not liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at
Economic Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Praj Industries shares in focus on securing bioethanol project in Paraguay
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our ETMarkets WhatsApp channel Shares of Praj Industries are expected to be in focus on Friday, June 6, following the announcement that Enersur S.A., one of Paraguay's leading renewable energy companies, has selected the Indian engineering major for a fully integrated BioRefinery Project in this strategic partnership, Praj will support the development, assessment, and phased implementation of the biorefinery, which aims to produce ethanol along with co-products such as distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn oil, biogas, bio-bitumen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).This project builds upon a previous contract awarded to Praj by Enersur to design, supply, and commission a 600 m³/day Anhydrous Ethanol plant in Canindeyú, Paraguay, which uses corn as plant is expected to be fully operational by October 2026 and marks a major milestone in Paraguay's commitment to clean energy and rural responsibilities will include technology licensing, engineering design, core equipment supply, and on-ground supervisory initiative is anticipated to generate significant employment opportunities, driving inclusive economic growth in rural Paraguay while reinforcing the global transition to low-carbon energy.'This partnership goes beyond ethanol—it embodies our shared vision to harness the full potential of bio-based innovations for clean energy, circular economy, and long-term energy resilience across South America,' said Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj collaboration was formalized during the recent state visit of Paraguayan President Santiago Peña Palacios and a high-level delegation to India from June 2 to 4, 2025.'As the world accelerates its transition to greener energy, this landmark project represents a major step forward for Paraguay while reinforcing Praj's strong and growing presence in South America. With over 100 references across the Americas—including the USA, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru —Praj continues to deliver cutting-edge, sustainable bioeconomy solutions across the region,' the company said in an exchange Thursday, the shares of Praj Industries closed nearly 1% lower at Rs 489.75 on the BSE.: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Praj Industries shares in focus on securing bioethanol project in Paraguay
Praj Industries shares: Enersur S.A. has chosen the Indian engineering giant for the execution of a fully integrated BioRefinery Project. Praj Industries shares: Through this strategic partnership, Praj will contribute to the development, evaluation, and step-by-step implementation of the biorefinery, which is designed to produce ethanol along with co-products including distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn oil, biogas, bio-bitumen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Shares of Praj Industries are expected to be in focus on Friday, June 6, following the announcement that Enersur S.A., one of Paraguay's leading renewable energy companies, has selected the Indian engineering major for a fully integrated BioRefinery Project in this strategic partnership, Praj will support the development, assessment, and phased implementation of the biorefinery, which aims to produce ethanol along with co-products such as distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn oil, biogas, bio-bitumen, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).This project builds upon a previous contract awarded to Praj by Enersur to design, supply, and commission a 600 m³/day Anhydrous Ethanol plant in Canindeyú, Paraguay, which uses corn as plant is expected to be fully operational by October 2026 and marks a major milestone in Paraguay's commitment to clean energy and rural responsibilities will include technology licensing, engineering design, core equipment supply, and on-ground supervisory initiative is anticipated to generate significant employment opportunities, driving inclusive economic growth in rural Paraguay while reinforcing the global transition to low-carbon energy.'This partnership goes beyond ethanol—it embodies our shared vision to harness the full potential of bio-based innovations for clean energy, circular economy, and long-term energy resilience across South America,' said Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj collaboration was formalized during the recent state visit of Paraguayan President Santiago Peña Palacios and a high-level delegation to India from June 2 to 4, 2025.'As the world accelerates its transition to greener energy, this landmark project represents a major step forward for Paraguay while reinforcing Praj's strong and growing presence in South America. With over 100 references across the Americas—including the USA, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru —Praj continues to deliver cutting-edge, sustainable bioeconomy solutions across the region,' the company said in an exchange Thursday, the shares of Praj Industries closed nearly 1% lower at Rs 489.75 on the BSE.: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
