CUET 2024: Registration, eligibility, syllabus, mock tests | CUET MOCK

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET), a national level entrance exam for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, is administered by the NTA (National Testing Agency). More than 250 institutions, including central, state, deemed, private, and other colleges, are accepting applications through CUET 2024. All central institutions as well as other universities that participate in CUET need students to take the CUET 2024 exam, for which they must begin studying with CUET MOCK.

The shortened CUET timeline has not yet been formally released by the NTA, but interested students can study all of the preliminary information here. Everything pupils require to know about CUET 2024 has been addressed. The CUET MOCK website provides comprehensive information on the following topics: when is the CUET 2024 test (UG), registration and application form release dates, eligibility, exam pattern, CUET UG curriculum, admit card release date, and participating university list.

CUET Eligibility Criteria — CUET MOCK

To register for and participate in CUET 2024, a candidate must fulfil a number of conditions, including those related to age, nationality, and educational background. These guidelines and limits are known as the CUET eligibility standards. Universities are expected to release specific course-specific eligibility requirements for admission in addition to the general CUET UG eligibility requirements. Before completing the CUET 2024 application form, students are advised to review the requirements for the degree they have chosen on the website of the relevant university.

As per the guidelines from the previous year, there won’t be an upper age limit to take the CUET. Fill out the CUET 2024 application form and appear in NTA — CUET UG. Candidates, regardless of age, who have passed the class 12th or equivalent examination with 45% (a 5% relaxation will be provided to category students) or higher marks, or who are appearing for it in 2024, may do so.

Visit CUET MOCK for comprehensive data regarding the requirements for CUET eligibility, the reservation policy, and other pertinent information!

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Bengaluru Sets Fixed Rates for Water Tankers, Cracks Down on Illicit Operations

In response to a growing water crisis in Bengaluru and concerns over the escalating prices charged by private water tankers, the district administration has taken action by establishing fixed rates for 200 private tankers operating in the city. This initiative comes as a measure to curb illicit water tanker operations and address the severe water shortage faced by the Karnataka capital.

The decision to standardize tanker rates for a four-month period was taken following an appeal from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). The rates apply to approximately 200 private tankers deployed on a contractual basis to supply water to the city.

For distances within 5 km, the fixed rates for a 6,000-litre water tanker are Rs 600, while an 8,000-litre tanker costs Rs 700, and a 12,000-litre tanker is priced at Rs 1,000, inclusive of GST. Beyond 5 km but within 10 km, the rates are Rs 750 for a 6,000-litre tanker, Rs 850 for an 8,000-litre tanker, and Rs 1,200 for a 12,000-litre tanker.

With an estimated 60% of Bengaluru’s population depending on tanker water, numerous residents have expressed concerns about private tankers charging exorbitant prices, ranging from Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000 for a 12,000-litre tanker.

The water crisis has triggered a political blame game between the ruling Congress and BJP in Karnataka. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya criticized the Siddaramaiah government for alleged inaction despite expert warnings, threatening protests if decisive measures were not taken promptly. Surya highlighted the neglect of Bengaluru’s water crisis and called for urgent action.

In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah acknowledged that 123 out of 136 taluks in the state have been declared drought-hit, with 109 severely affected. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya proposed supplying treated water to industrial complexes for non-potable use and emphasized the need to recharge aquifers by directing treated water to lakes.

The water tanker rate standardization aims to alleviate the challenges posed by illicit tanker operations and ensure a more regulated and equitable distribution of water resources in Bengaluru.

R Ashwin’s Emotional Tribute on 100th Test: A Journey Beyond Cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin, the stalwart of Indian cricket, celebrated a significant milestone as he received his special 100th Test cap from India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, during the fifth and final Test against England. In an emotional and pride-filled gratitude speech, Ashwin’s words resonated with the essence of Test cricket, reflecting on the profound life lessons the format imparts.

“Test cricket is the closest synergy that you can find to life,” expressed Ashwin, his voice tinged with emotion. While acknowledging the popularity of T20 leagues like the IPL and the aspirations of young cricketers, he emphasized the unique values that Test cricket instills. “It will teach you to adapt, dealing with pressures,” he added, underscoring the importance of the longest format of the game.

Ashwin, who made his Test debut in 2011, took a moment to pay tribute to his father, Ravichandran, who played a pivotal role in shaping his cricketing journey. Recalling his early days, Ashwin vividly remembered his father’s dedication, taking him to coaching camps on a bike, demonstrating a government employee’s unwavering support for his son’s dreams.

Expressing deep gratitude, Ashwin acknowledged the emotional significance of the moment, particularly for his father, who couldn’t be present. He credited his family, including his mother and grandfather, for playing crucial roles in his cricketing journey.

Acknowledging the unwavering support from his wife, Preeti, Ashwin reflected on her significant role during challenging periods. “My wife didn’t know what she was getting into. She’s gotten into it, and she’s standing next to me today. I have got two lovely kids who are also enjoying my journey over the last few years,” he shared, highlighting the importance of family support.

After handing Ashwin the coveted cap, Rahul Dravid expressed his admiration for the Tamil Nadu cricketer. Dravid emphasized that Ashwin’s journey began from the streets of Chennai and has been both long and eventful. He acknowledged the crucial role played by Ashwin’s family and congratulated them on this well-deserved milestone.

The ceremony was marked by applause from Ashwin’s teammates, who honored him with a guard of honor as he stepped onto the field, celebrating not just a cricketing achievement but a journey beyond the boundaries of the sport.

Severe ‘Parrot Fever’ Outbreak Claims Lives Across Europe

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms about a significant outbreak of psittacosis, commonly known as parrot fever, affecting multiple individuals in various European countries. The outbreak, first identified in 2023, has persisted into the current year, resulting in the reported deaths of five individuals, as reported by CNN.

Parrot fever, caused by Chlamydia-family bacteria, is transmitted through contact with both wild and domesticated birds and poultry. Even if infected birds display no symptoms, they can still transmit the bacteria through breathing or excretion.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that humans often contract parrot fever by inhaling dust particles contaminated with secretions from infected birds. Additionally, the disease can be transmitted if a person is bitten by a bird or has direct contact between a bird’s beak and their mouth. However, the infection does not spread through the consumption of infected animals.

While rare, human-to-human transmission is possible, as indicated by studies. In most recent cases, individuals had been exposed to infected domesticated or wild birds, according to the World Health Organization.

Typically, individuals who contract parrot fever experience mild symptoms, manifesting five to 14 days after exposure to an infected bird. These symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, dry cough, fever, and chills. Antibiotics are effective in treating the infection, and fatalities among humans are uncommon.

Austria, which typically records two cases of the disease annually, reported 14 confirmed cases in 2023 and an additional four cases in 2024 as of March 4. These cases are unrelated, with no reported travel abroad or encounters with wild birds.

Denmark, usually witnessing 15 to 30 human cases each year, has confirmed 23 cases in this outbreak as of February 27. Public health officials suspect the actual number of cases is higher. Among the Danish cases, 17 individuals have been hospitalized, with 15 diagnosed with pneumonia, resulting in four fatalities.

In Denmark, exposure information indicates that one person contracted parrot fever from a pet bird, while 12 individuals reported contact with wild birds, mainly through bird feeders. Interestingly, three cases had no documented history of contact with any type of birds.

Germany reported 14 confirmed cases of parrot fever in 2023, with an additional five cases in 2024. Nearly all affected individuals experienced pneumonia, and 16 required hospitalization. Five cases in Germany disclosed exposure to ill pet birds or chickens.

Since 2017, Sweden has seen an increase in parrot fever cases, recording 26 cases in late November and early December. However, this year has seen a decrease, with only 13 reported cases. Similarly, the Netherlands reported 21 cases from late December to February 29, double the usual number recorded during the same period in previous years.

The WHO has pledged to monitor the ongoing outbreak closely.

Kabir Khan Reveals Challenges Faced by Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in “Ek Tha Tiger”

The dynamic duo of Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif has been the subject of much speculation in Bollywood circles. Over the years, they have delivered numerous blockbusters, including hits like “Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya” and “Partner.” However, their collaboration in the 2012 action-packed thriller “Ek Tha Tiger” posed unique challenges, according to director Kabir Khan.

In a preview of casting director Mukesh Chhabra’s upcoming talk show “The Bombay Dreams,” Kabir Khan opened up about the complexities of casting Salman and Katrina together in a film immediately after their reported breakup. Kabir Khan revealed that Katrina had already been signed for the role of Zoya before Salman was approached for the titular role of Tiger, also known as Avinash Singh Rathore. During this phase, the director noted that the two stars “weren’t that comfortable” with each other.

The breakup between Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif occurred in 2010, with Katrina acknowledging Salman as her first serious relationship in a 2011 interview with Cosmopolitan magazine. Interestingly, this revelation came at a time when the two were actively involved in the filming of “Ek Tha Tiger.”

“Ek Tha Tiger” marked the inception of the Tiger franchise, followed by “Tiger Zinda Hai” in 2017 and “Tiger 3” in 2023. While Ali Abbas Zafar directed the 2017 installment, “Tiger 3” was helmed by Maneesh Sharma, becoming Salman Khan’s biggest opener upon its release in November 2023. The third film sees Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif reprising their roles as Avinash Singh Rathore (Tiger) and Zoya, with Emraan Hashmi portraying the antagonist Aatish Rehman. Additionally, Shah Rukh Khan made a cameo appearance in the film, consolidating the Tiger franchise within the YRF Spy Universe alongside other titles like Hrithik Roshan’s “War” and Shah Rukh Khan’s “Pathaan.”

Amidst these revelations, Katrina Kaif, last seen in “Merry Christmas,” awaits the release of Farhan Akhtar’s “Jee Le Zaraa,” further adding to her diverse portfolio in Bollywood.

Dinesh Karthik Sets Retirement Date, Rumored to Bid Farewell to IPL After 2024 Season

Renowned Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik is reportedly gearing up for his final appearance in the IPL, with the 2024 edition set to commence on March 22. The 38-year-old, currently affiliated with the Royal Challengers Bangalore, has been a consistent presence in all 16 editions of the IPL since its inception in 2008, only missing two matches across 16 seasons. A source within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed, on the condition of anonymity, that Karthik plans to make the 2024 IPL his last and will make decisions regarding his international retirement following the tournament.

Having played for six different teams in the IPL, Karthik’s journey began with the Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) in 2008, followed by stints with Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, a lucrative return to Delhi in 2014, and subsequent spells with Gujarat Lions and the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Before the IPL 2022 season, Karthik was released by the Kolkata Knight Riders and acquired by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the second time at a cost of Rs 5.5 crore. His impactful performance in 2022, particularly as a finisher, saw him score 330 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of 55 and an explosive strike rate of 183.33, contributing significantly to RCB’s journey to the playoffs.

Karthik’s prolific form earned him a spot in the India squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. However, the team fell short in the semifinals against eventual champions England.

Apart from his on-field contributions, Karthik has also made a name for himself as a commentator, showcasing a lively and technically sound approach.

In his international career, which ran parallel to that of MS Dhoni as a wicketkeeper-batsman, Karthik played 26 Tests, scoring 1025 runs, and participated in 94 ODIs, accumulating 1752 runs. His last appearance for India was in a T20I against Bangladesh in 2022. Across 60 T20Is, he scored 686 runs and showcased his skills with 30 catches and 8 stumpings.

Karthik boasts an impressive IPL record, featuring in 242 matches since the inaugural edition, amassing 4516 runs at an average of 25.81 and a strike rate of 132.71, with 20 half-centuries. Additionally, he has contributed with 141 catches and 36 stumpings.

While speculation surrounds Karthik’s IPL retirement after the upcoming season, fans eagerly await his final stint in the tournament, marking the end of an illustrious and impactful career in the world of cricket.

Concerns Raised by Microsoft Worker Over AI Tool Generating “Inappropriate” Content

A Microsoft Corp. software engineer, Shane Jones, has alerted the company’s board, lawmakers, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) about potential risks associated with its AI image generation tool, Copilot Designer. In letters sent to these entities, Jones expressed concerns that Microsoft is inadequately safeguarding its AI tool, allowing it to produce abusive and violent content.

Jones identified a security vulnerability in OpenAI’s latest DALL-E image generator model, a component embedded in various Microsoft AI tools, including Copilot Designer. He reported the issue to Microsoft and urged the company to temporarily halt the public use of Copilot Designer until enhanced safeguards could be implemented.

Despite Microsoft publicly promoting Copilot Designer as a safe AI product for users of all ages, Jones claimed in his letter to the FTC that the company is well aware of systemic issues leading to the creation of harmful and inappropriate images. According to Jones, Copilot Designer lacks the necessary warnings or disclosures for consumers to be aware of these risks.

In his communication with the FTC, Jones disclosed that Copilot Designer had a tendency to randomly generate “inappropriate, sexually objectified images of women” and also produced harmful content in various categories, such as political bias, underage drinking and drug use, misuse of trademarks and copyrights, conspiracy theories, and religious content.

The FTC acknowledged receipt of the letter but refrained from providing further comments on the matter. This incident adds to growing concerns about the capacity of AI tools to generate harmful and offensive content.

Microsoft recently faced reports of disturbing responses from its Copilot chatbot, prompting an investigation. In February, Alphabet Inc.’s Gemini, a flagship AI product, received criticism for generating historically inaccurate scenes in response to user prompts.

Jones also reached out to Microsoft’s board’s Environmental, Social, and Public Policy Committee, emphasizing the importance of voluntarily and transparently disclosing known AI risks, especially when marketing products to children.

Microsoft responded with a commitment to addressing employee concerns in line with company policies and expressed gratitude for employee efforts in testing and enhancing the safety of their latest technology. OpenAI, the organization behind the AI model, did not provide a comment in response to requests for clarification.

Jones, who has raised concerns over the past three months, has also contacted Democratic Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, as well as House Representative Adam Smith, urging an investigation into the risks associated with AI image generation technologies and the corporate governance practices of companies developing and marketing such products. As of now, lawmakers have not responded to these requests for comment.

Delhi Court Summons Arvind Kejriwal Following Fresh Complaint from Probe Agency

In the ongoing saga surrounding the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) summons to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his steadfast refusal to comply, a Delhi court has now directed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader to appear before it on March 16.

This latest summons is a result of the central agency’s determination to question Mr. Kejriwal regarding the Delhi excise policy case. The ED informed the court that the Chief Minister had ignored numerous summonses issued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

Mr. Kejriwal has chosen not to respond to eight summonses issued by the ED, alleging that the Narendra Modi government is exploiting central agencies like the ED to target opposition leaders.

The most recent summons from the agency was issued in late February, setting March 4 as the date for questioning. Dismissing the summons as “illegal,” the AAP leader expressed readiness to appear before the agency via video-conferencing. However, the ED insisted on a physical appearance, citing the absence of provisions for questioning via video-conferencing.

The ED had previously arrested two prominent AAP leaders, former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia, and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, in connection with the money laundering case related to Delhi’s now-abandoned excise policy.

Mr. Kejriwal’s name has been recurrently mentioned in charge sheets filed by the ED. The agency contends that the individuals implicated in the case were in communication with the Chief Minister during the formulation of the excise policy.

Study Challenges Perceptions: Electric Vehicles Found to Emit More Particle Pollution Than Petrol and Diesel Cars

In the face of growing concern about climate change, the interest in environmentally friendly transportation options has surged. Electric vehicles (EVs) have long been hailed as a cleaner alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars due to their lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, a recent study conducted by Emission Analytics, an emissions data analysis firm, casts doubt on this widely held belief.

The study, featured in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, sheds light on a previously overlooked aspect of pollution — particles originating from brakes and tires in both electric and fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Contrary to common perceptions, the key finding reveals that EVs, owing to their heavier weight, might emit significantly more particulate matter from brakes and tires compared to modern gas-powered vehicles equipped with efficient exhaust filters. The study suggests that the difference could be as high as 1,850 times.

The primary concern centers around tire wear, with Emission Analytics emphasizing that the heavier weight of EVs accelerates the deterioration of tires, leading to the release of harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This is particularly notable as most tires are manufactured from synthetic rubber derived from crude oil.

Furthermore, the study underscores the impact of battery weight on EVs. These vehicles typically carry heavier batteries compared to their traditional petrol counterparts, placing additional strain on brakes and tires and hastening the rate of wear and tear.

According to the study, the emissions from tire wear in an EV equipped with a half-tonne (1,100 pounds) battery could potentially exceed exhaust emissions from a modern petrol car by over 400 times.

While the general focus has historically been on tailpipe emissions, this study prompts a reevaluation of the environmental impact of EVs by emphasizing the need to consider particle pollution from brakes and tires. The findings challenge prevailing assumptions and highlight the multifaceted nature of the environmental considerations associated with electric vehicles.

India’s Landmark Achievement: Unveiling Kolkata’s First Underwater Metro – A Marvel of Modern Transportation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to unveil India’s groundbreaking underwater metro system, marking a historic milestone for the nation. The inauguration ceremony of the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade Metro section in Kolkata is anticipated to be a grand affair, drawing the presence of esteemed dignitaries and officials. Following the inauguration, the metro service will become accessible to the public.

Discover the Wonders of Kolkata’s New Underwater Metro:

Impressive Length and Depth:
Covering a remarkable 16.6 km, Kolkata’s new underwater metro spans a depth of 10.8 km from Howrah Maidan to Phoolbagan, featuring an underground tunnel beneath the Hooghly River, making it the deepest of its kind in the country. The remaining portion of the metro is situated above ground.

Essential City Link:
A critical link between the twin cities of Howrah and Salt Lake is established through a 4.8 km section of the metro, promoting connectivity and accessibility.

Stations and Layout:
The underwater metro comprises six stations, with three strategically positioned underground, optimizing convenience for commuters.

Swift River Crossing:
Commuters will experience the thrill of covering a 520 m stretch of the river in a mere 45 seconds, emphasizing the efficiency and speed of this innovative mode of transportation.

Cutting-Edge Technology:
The metro employs Automatic Train Operation (ATO), a state-of-the-art system where the train advances to the next station with the simple press of a button by the motorman.

Affordable Ticket Prices:
Offering accessibility to all, ticket prices for the underwater metro start at a nominal ₹5 for the first two km, with subsequent tiers of ₹5, ₹10, ₹15, ₹20, ₹25, gradually reaching a maximum of ₹50.

Operational Stretches:
While the segment between Esplanade and Sealdah is still under construction, the operational stretch from Salt Lake Sector V to Sealdah is currently active. Kolkata Metro plans to launch the complete East-West route between Salt Lake Sector V and Howrah Maidan in June or July.

Historical Achievement:
In April 2023, the Kolkata Metro achieved a historic feat by successfully running a train through the tunnel beneath the Hooghly River.

In addition to the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade Metro, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the Kavi Subhash-Hemanta Mukhopadhyay and Taratala-Majerhat metro sections in Kolkata, further cementing the city’s status as a pioneer in modern urban transportation.