In a strategic move to improve liquidity in the commodity derivatives market, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has reduced the deliverable period for commodity derivatives from the previous 5 days to 3 days. This regulatory change is set to take effect from July 1, 2024, and will apply to contracts with staggered delivery scheduled after this date.

Addressing Market Demands and Expert Recommendations

The decision to shorten the delivery period was driven by representations from market participants and recommendations from the Commodity Derivatives Advisory Committee. By actively engaging with industry stakeholders and experts, SEBI aims to create a more efficient and responsive trading environment for commodity derivatives.

Improving Liquidity in Delivery-Based Derivatives

The primary objective behind this regulatory change is to improve liquidity in delivery-based commodity derivatives. By reducing the delivery period, SEBI seeks to enhance the overall trading efficiency and attract more participants to this segment of the commodity futures market.

Understanding the Staggered Delivery Period

The staggered delivery period is a crucial concept in commodity derivatives trading. It refers to the period before contract expiry when buyers and sellers with open positions can indicate their intent to give or take delivery. All compulsory delivery commodity futures contracts must include a staggered delivery period, making it a critical component of the trading process.

Standardizing Delivery Schedules

In 2019, SEBI introduced a minimum duration for the staggered delivery period, recognizing the need for standardization across different exchanges. At the time, the regulator noticed that various exchanges were following different delivery schedules, which could lead to confusion and inefficiencies in the market. By establishing a uniform minimum period, SEBI aimed to create a level playing field and promote transparency.

Enhancing Market Efficiency and Attractiveness

The reduction of the delivery period from 5 days to 3 days is expected to have a positive impact on the liquidity and efficiency of the commodity derivatives market. By shortening the time frame, SEBI aims to facilitate quicker settlement and delivery processes, reducing the potential for price fluctuations and mitigating associated risks.

Moreover, this regulatory change aligns with SEBI’s broader goal of fostering a more attractive and investor-friendly environment in the commodity derivatives market. By addressing the concerns and recommendations of market participants, the regulator demonstrates its commitment to continuously enhancing the trading ecosystem and promoting growth in this segment.

As the July 1, 2024, implementation date approaches, market participants, including traders, brokers, and exchanges, will need to adapt their operations and strategies to comply with the new delivery period regulations. Effective communication and seamless implementation will be crucial to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the intended benefits of improved liquidity and trading efficiency in the commodity derivatives market.

India boasts an array of iconic bridges that symbolize architectural brilliance and connect diverse landscapes. From the iconic Howrah Bridge spanning the Hooghly River in Kolkata, to the mesmerizing Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai, each bridge tells a tale of innovation and connectivity. These engineering marvels not only facilitate transportation but also stand as monuments of India’s progress and unity.

GK Quiz on Bridges of India

Test your knowledge of India’s architectural wonders with this engaging GK quiz on bridges of India that connect the nation’s diverse landscapes and symbolize innovation and connectivity.

Q1. Which bridge in India is also known as the Rabindra Setu?

A) Vivekananda Setu

B) Howrah Bridge

C) Mahatma Gandhi Setu

D) Laxman Jhula

S1. Ans. (B)

Sol. An iconic landmark in Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge is a huge steel bridge over the Hooghly River. It is considered to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Also known as Rabindra Setu, it connects Howrah and Kolkata.

Q2. The Bogibeel Bridge, one of the longest rail-cum-road bridges in India, is located in which state?

A) Assam

B) Uttar Pradesh

C) West Bengal

D) Rajasthan

S2. Ans. (A)

Sol. The Bogibeel Bridge is the longest rail-cum-road bridge of India on the Brahmaputra River in Assam. Owing to its location, the bridge is of strategic importance to India as it significantly eases India’s ability to transport troops and supplies to the border with Tibet in Arunachal Pradesh.

Q3. The Digha–Sonpur Bridge is built over which river in India?

A) Yamuna

B) Ganges

C) Brahmaputra

D) Godavari

S3. Ans. (B)

Sol. The Digha Sonepur rail-road bridge, or J.P. Setu, is a bridge across the Ganges river that connects Digha Ghat in Patna, and Pahleja Ghat in Sonpur, Bihar. It was constructed in 2003 and inaugurated in 2017.

Q4. The Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest river bridges in India, connects Patna with which district?

A) Vaishali

B) Bhojpur

C) Hajipur

D) Buxar

S4. Ans. (C)

Sol. Mahatma Gandhi Setu (also called Gandhi Setu or Ganga Setu) is a bridge over the river Ganges in Bihar, India, connecting Patna in the south to Hajipur in the north.

Q5. The Saraighat Bridge, the first rail-cum-road bridge over the Brahmaputra River, is located in which city?

A) Guwahati

B) Kolkata

C) Patna

D) Lucknow

S5. Ans. (A)

Sol. Saraighat Bridge is the first rail-cum-road bridge over the holy river Brahmaputra near Guwahati in Assam.

Q6. Which bridge is the world’s second-longest span suspension bridge, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir?

A) Godavari Bridge

B) Howrah Bridge

C) Chenab Bridge

D) Pamban Bridge

S6. Ans. (C)

Sol. Chenab Bridge is the world’s second-longest span suspension bridge, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Q7. The Coronation Bridge, also known as the Sevoke Bridge, is located in which state of India?

A) West Bengal

B) Assam

C) Odisha

D) Kerala

S7. Ans. (A)

Sol. The Coronation Bridge, also known as the Sevoke Roadway Bridge, in West Bengal, India, spans across the Teesta River, connecting the districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.

Q8. The Pamban Bridge, also known as Indira Gandhi Bridge, connects the Indian mainland with which island?

A) Rameswaram

B) Sriharikota

C) Diu

D) Majuli

S8. Ans. (A)

Sol. The Pamban railway bridge spans a 2.06 km (1.28 mi) wide strait between the Indian mainland and Rameswaram Island. The mainland end of the bridge is located at 9°16′56.70″N 79°11′20.12″E. The bridge is located in a corrosive marine environment, making its maintenance a challenging job.

Q9. The Naini Bridge, also known as the Dufferin Bridge, is located in which Indian city?

A) Allahabad

B) Lucknow

C) Varanasi

D) Patna

S9. Ans. (A)

Sol. The Naini Bridge, also known as the Allahabad Yamuna Bridge, is a significant landmark in Allahabad, now Prayagraj.

Q10. Which bridge connects the cities of Howrah and Kolkata?

A) Howrah Bridge

B) Bandra-Worli Sea Link

C) Vivekananda Setu

D) Mahatma Gandhi Setu

S10. Ans. (A)

Sol. An iconic landmark in Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge is a huge steel bridge over the Hooghly River. It is considered to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Also known as Rabindra Setu, it connects Howrah and Kolkata.

In a remarkable feat, Indian mountaineer Satyadeep Gupta has etched his name in history by becoming the first person to scale Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse twice in a single season. Additionally, he is the first Indian to traverse the two peaks in an astonishing 11 hours and 15 minutes.

Conquering the World’s Highest and Fourth Highest Peaks

Gupta successfully summited the 8,516-metre-high Mt. Lhotse on Monday at noon and then went on to conquer the 8,849-metre-high Mt. Everest at 12:45 am, midnight, according to Pioneer Adventure Expedition, which organized the expedition.

This extraordinary achievement marks the first Double Dual Ascent of the world’s highest and fourth highest peaks in a single season, as confirmed by the adventure company.

Breaking Records and Pushing Boundaries

Not only did Gupta accomplish the Double Dual Ascent, but he also set another record by becoming the first Indian to traverse from Mt. Everest to Mt. Lhotse in an incredible 11 hours and 15 minutes.

A Challenging Journey

Gupta was accompanied by climbing guides Pastemba Sherpa and Nima Ungdi Sherpa during his historic ascents. He had previously summited Mt. Everest on May 21 and Mt. Lhotse on May 22, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination.

A Pioneering Achievement

According to a staff member of Pioneer, Gupta is the first person in the world to accomplish this double dual ascent, highlighting the remarkable nature of his achievement.

His success not only serves as an inspiration for fellow mountaineers but also showcases the incredible strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Pushing the Boundaries of Mountaineering

Mountaineering is a pursuit that demands immense physical and mental fortitude, and Satyadeep Gupta’s accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and perseverance required to conquer some of the world’s most challenging peaks.

By achieving this historic Double Dual Ascent, Gupta has not only etched his name in the annals of mountaineering history but has also pushed the boundaries of what is possible in this extreme sport.

As the world celebrates his remarkable achievement, Gupta’s feat serves as a reminder of the limitless potential of human endeavor and the power of unwavering determination.

Uttar Pradesh is one of India’s most significant states in terms of agriculture, politics, economy, society, and geography. The state is a hub of cultural heritage, rich history, and religious cities. Every year, numerous domestic and international tourists visit Uttar Pradesh to explore its ancient sites and religious cities. In this series on Uttar Pradesh, we will discover the state’s total length from east to west.

Historical Names of Uttar Pradesh

Before independence, Uttar Pradesh was known by various names. Initially, it was called the North-Western Provinces. Later, it was renamed North-Western Provinces and Oudh, and subsequently, the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. Finally, it was known as the United Provinces before being named Uttar Pradesh after independence.

Total Area of Uttar Pradesh

Let’s first understand the total area of Uttar Pradesh. The state covers an area of 240,928 square kilometers, which constitutes about 7.33% of India’s total area. In comparison, the total area of India is 3,287,263 square kilometers, accounting for about 2.4% of the world’s land area.

Total Districts in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh comprises 75 districts, which are grouped into 18 divisions and further divided into four administrative regions. These regions contain a total of 822 community development blocks, 351 tehsils, and 17 municipal corporations. The easternmost district is Ballia, the northernmost is Saharanpur, the westernmost is Shamli, and the southernmost is Sonbhadra.

Length of Uttar Pradesh from East to West

Uttar Pradesh spans a total of 650 kilometers from east to west, stretching from Ballia in the east to Shamli in the west. This extensive length highlights the state’s significant geographical expanse, encompassing diverse regions and cultures.

Borders with Eight States and One Union Territory

Uttar Pradesh shares its borders with eight states and one union territory: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Delhi.

Apples are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits globally, cherished for their nutritional value and versatility. Among the many countries involved in apple cultivation, China stands out as the world’s largest producer of apples. This article delves into the details of China’s apple production, examining the factors behind its dominance, the scale of production, and the impact on the global market.

Worldwide Apple Production

Worldwide apple production surged to an impressive 95.84 million metric tons, marking a notable increase from around 83.1 million tons recorded in 2017. This substantial rise underscores the continuous growth and importance of the apple industry on a global scale. With advancements in technology and agricultural practices, coupled with increasing demand, the global apple production sector continues to thrive, providing consumers worldwide with a diverse range of delicious and nutritious fruits.

Most Apple Producing Country in the World

China’s apple production is unparalleled, with the country consistently producing more apples than any other nation. As of recent data, China produces over 40 million metric tons of apples annually, accounting for nearly half of the world’s total apple output. This vast production dwarfs other leading apple-producing countries such as the United States, Poland, and India.

Major Apple-Producing Regions

China’s apple orchards are spread across several key regions, each contributing significantly to the overall production:

• Shandong Province: Known as the “home of apples” in China, Shandong is the largest apple-producing region, renowned for its high-quality Fuji apples.
• Shaanxi Province: This region is noted for its rich soil and favorable climate, producing large quantities of apples with a focus on both quality and quantity.
• Hebei Province: Another major player in the apple industry, Hebei contributes significantly to China’s apple exports.

Varieties of Apples

China cultivates a wide variety of apples, catering to both domestic and international markets. The most prominent varieties include:

• Fuji: Known for its sweetness and crisp texture, the Fuji apple is the most popular variety both in China and abroad.
• Gala: These apples are favored for their thin skin and juicy, mildly sweet flavor.
• Red Delicious: Recognized by their deep red color and slightly tart taste, Red Delicious apples are also a major export product.

Factors Behind China’s Dominance

Several factors contribute to China’s leading position in apple production:

• Climate and Geography: The diverse climates and fertile soils across China’s apple-growing regions provide ideal conditions for apple cultivation.
• Investment in Agriculture: China has heavily invested in modern agricultural techniques, infrastructure, and research to boost apple production and quality.
• Labor Force: The availability of a large, skilled labor force enables extensive apple farming and efficient harvesting processes.

Impact on the Global Market

China’s dominance in apple production has significant implications for the global market. The country not only meets its vast domestic demand but also exports apples worldwide, influencing global apple prices and availability. Major export destinations include Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its leading position, China’s apple industry faces several challenges, including:

• Environmental Concerns: Over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides poses environmental risks and affects sustainability.
• Market Competition: Increasing competition from other apple-producing nations requires constant innovation and quality improvement.
• Climate Change: Changing weather patterns threaten the stability of apple production in some regions.

The future outlook for China’s apple industry remains positive, with ongoing efforts to adopt sustainable farming practices and expand export markets. Innovations in agricultural technology and improved logistics are expected to further strengthen China’s position as the world’s leading apple producer.

Smartphones have become a major export success story for India, now ranking as the fourth-largest export item with a 42% growth, reaching $15.6 billion in FY24. This marks an improvement by one notch in the ranking from the preceding year. Data collection for smartphones as a separate category began in April 2022, highlighting the sector’s rapid growth.

Key Growth Factors

The significant rise in smartphone exports is attributed to a 158% increase in shipments to the US, amounting to $5.6 billion. Other major markets include the United Arab Emirates ($2.6 billion), the Netherlands ($1.2 billion), and the UK ($1.1 billion). The total value of mobile devices produced in India for both export and domestic markets in FY24 surged to Rs 4.1 trillion ($49.16 billion), representing a 17% year-on-year increase.

Impact of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

The government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been instrumental in this growth, positioning India as the second-largest mobile phone manufacturing country after China. The PLI scheme aims to attract companies manufacturing in China to shift to India, leveraging geopolitical tensions between China and the US. Notable beneficiaries include Apple’s vendors—Foxconn, Wistron India (now Tata Electronics), and Pegatron—along with Samsung.

Apple’s Leading Role

Apple has significantly contributed to the export surge, with outbound shipments of mobile devices expected to exceed Rs 1.2 trillion ($14.39 billion) in FY24, a 33% increase from Rs 90,000 crore in FY23. Preliminary ICEA data indicates that exports in FY24 accounted for nearly 30% of the total output value, up from 25% in FY23.

Future Outlook

The robust growth in smartphone exports underscores the effectiveness of India’s PLI scheme and highlights the country’s strategic shift in the global electronics manufacturing landscape. This growth trajectory is expected to continue, further solidifying India’s position as a key player in the global smartphone market.