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Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 03rd August 2024. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.
1) The Finance Ministry memorandum states that public sector banks, financial institutions, and CPSEs have to raise their public ownership to a minimum of what percentage until August 2026?
(a) 5%
(b) 10%
(c) 15%
(d) 20%
(e) 25%
2) According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), what percentage of the ₹2,000 banknotes that were in circulation on May 19, 2023, had been returned by july 31,2024?
(a) 97.92%
(b) 95.92%
(c) 99.92%
(d) 98.92%
(e) 96.92%
3) Which bank has stated that its RuPay credit cards will now provide National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services?
(a) DBS bank
(b) RBL bank
(c) Federal bank
(d) South Indian bank
(e) Karnataka bank
4) How many cities across eight states in India will benefit from a $200 million loan approved by the Indian government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for solid waste management and sanitation upgrades?
(a) 120
(b) 100
(c) 125
(d) 105
(e) 115
5) The Ministry of Finance reports that throughout the previous five years, the amount collected for the fines has increased by more than 34% for public sector banks (PSBs). For which bank constitutes the penalty of Rs. 633 crore?
(a) Bank of Baroda
(b) Bank of India
(c) Union Bank of India
(d) Punjab National Bank
(e) Punjab and Sind Bank
6) Which Bank and SWIFT Are First to Use AI-Powered Pilot to Fight Cross-Border Payment Fraud, then the pilot will examine past transaction data using AI algorithms to look for irregularities that might point to fraud?
(a) Canara bank
(b) HDFC bank
(c) ICICI bank
(d) SBI
(e) Axis bank
7) To create a framework for managing loan defaults, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) published the “Master Direction on the Treatment of Wilful Defaulters and Large Defaulters”. A borrower having an outstanding balance of __________crore or more is considered a significant defaulter.
(a) Rs.50lakh
(b) Rs. 0.5crore
(c) Rs.1crore
(d) Rs. 75lakhs
(e) Rs.25 lakhs
8) For Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released a notice that is primarily focused on Small Value Loans. How many years has been added to the deadline for achieving the given targets?
(a) 1year
(b) 2year
(c) 3year
(d) 4year
(e) 5year
9) The government’s Smart Cities effort has come under fire because of the glaring discrepancy between its lofty ideals and the actual situation on the ground. The initiative was triumphantly introduced in the Lok Sabha with Pune serving as a model for flood monitoring and mitigation. When did the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) get started?
(a) 2014
(b) 2011
(c) 2012
(d) 2015
(e) 2017
10) What percentage Y-o-Y rise is shown in UPI’s remarkable growth as its transaction volume surges to $14.44 billion in July 2024?
(a) 45%
(b) 35%
(c) 55%
(d) 25%
(e) 65%
11) India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) receipts increased by 10.3% in July 2024 compared to the previous year, totaling ₹1.82 trillion (US$ 21.74 billion). Which Deloitte India employee emphasized that slower return rates were a factor in the greater net collection rise of 14.4% as opposed to the 10.3% gross increase?
(a) K.Karthikeyan
(b) M.S Mani
(c) S. Hariharan
(d) V.Sundaram
(e) D. Venkat
12) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Finance Ministry will meet the next month to talk about the possibility of issuing Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB) for the balance of the fiscal year.They were ________ SGB issuances occurred in FY21, down to 4 in FY24, and none as of now in the current fiscal year.
(a) 11
(b) 12
(c) 14
(d) 16
(e) 10
13) The recent announcement from the Finance Ministry on the establishment of the Principal and State Benches of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) includes clauses pertaining to “sitting” and “circuit.” Throughout India, there will be ______ State Benches.
(a) 32
(b) 30
(c) 29
(d) 31
(e) 33
14) Which Enterprise has acquired Juniper Networks for $14 billion, with approval from the European Commission?
(a) Dell
(b) Hp
(c) HCL
(d) ASUS
(e) Lenovo
15) Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair became the first woman to be appointed to the esteemed position of Director General Medical Services (Army) when she took up the role. Furthermore, she was proposed as an expert member of which committee to help develop a portion of the National Education Policy’s medical education section?
(a) Dr Kasturirangan
(b) Dr Venugopalan
(c) Dr Manicam
(d) Dr. Danish
(e) Dr. Arumugam
16) With effect from August 1, 2024, European airline Air France-KLM has named Stefan Gumuseli as its new General Manager for the Middle East and India areas. With whom is he succeeding?
(a) Chanda Kochhar
(b) Simon Scholte
(c) Leander Paes
(d) Stephen Curry
(e) Kawhi Leonard
17) According to UNESCO World Heritage list with 60 sites. Which of the following pair is correctly matched?
- Italy: Niah National Park
- Germany: Via Appia Regina Viarum
- Malaysia: Constantin Brâncuși’s sculptural ensemble in Târgu Jiu
- Saudi Arabia: Archaeological area of Al-Faw
- Romania: Ensemble Schwerin residence
Select the correct pair:
(a) Only B
(b) Both C&E
(c) Only D
(d) Only A,C,E
(e) All the above are incorrect
18) The countries reached a “trap” at around what percentage of yearly US GDP per capita, which is comparable to $8,000 today. This falls inside the World Bank’s “middle-income” classification?
(a) 8%
(b) 10%
(c) 12%
(d) 9%
(e) 15%
19) Despite a drop in the value of its exports, India continued to be the world’s largest exporter of agricultural goods in 2023, ranking _________.
(a) 7th
(b) 8th
(c) 6th
(d) 5th
(e) 9th
20) At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Indian shooter Swapnil Kusale wins a historic bronze in the men’s 50-meter rifle three positions. Which nation won gold in the 50-meter rifle for men?
(a) Japan
(b) South Korea
(c) China
(d) Hong Kong
(e) Sweden
Answers :
1) Answer: E
Short Explanation:
The government has extended the deadline for central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) and public sector financial institutions to meet the minimum public shareholding (MPS) norm until August 2026.
Exemption Details:According to the Finance Ministry memorandum, CPSEs, public sector banks, and financial institutions are allowed until August 1, 2026, to increase their public shareholding to at least 25%.
Authority and Rules:The extension is exercised under sub-rule (6) of Rule 19A of Securities Contract (Regulation) Rules, 1957 (SCRR).
Detailed Explanation:
The government has extended the deadline for central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) and public sector financial institutions to meet the minimum public shareholding (MPS) norm until August 2026.
Exemption Details:According to the Finance Ministry memorandum, CPSEs, public sector banks, and financial institutions are allowed until August 1, 2026, to increase their public shareholding to at least 25%.
Authority and Rules:The extension is exercised under sub-rule (6) of Rule 19A of Securities Contract (Regulation) Rules, 1957 (SCRR).
SEBI is requested to take necessary actions and inform relevant stock exchanges.
Affected Public Sector Banks:5 public sector banks (Bank of Maharashtra, Indian Overseas Bank, UCO Bank, Central Bank of India, and Punjab and Sind Bank) plan to reduce government stake to less than 75% to comply with SEBI’s MPS norm.
7 out of 12 public sector banks (SBI, PNB, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, Indian Bank, Union Bank of India, and Bank of India) were compliant with the MPS norm as of March 31, 2024.
2) Answer: A
Short Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that 97.92% of ₹2,000 banknotes in circulation as of May 19, 2023, have been returned by July 31, 2024.
The total value of ₹2,000 notes in circulation reduced from ₹3.56 lakh crore on May 19, 2023, to ₹7,409 crore by July 31, 2024.
Clean Note Policy:The withdrawal is part of the RBI’s “Clean Note Policy”.
Detailed Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that 97.92% of ₹2,000 banknotes in circulation as of May 19, 2023, have been returned by July 31, 2024.
The total value of ₹2,000 notes in circulation reduced from ₹3.56 lakh crore on May 19, 2023, to ₹7,409 crore by July 31, 2024.
Clean Note Policy:The withdrawal is part of the RBI’s “Clean Note Policy”.
Deposit and Exchange Facility:Deposit and/or exchange of ₹2,000 banknotes was available at all bank branches until October 07, 2023.
Post-October 07, 2023, the notes are exchangeable at the 19 RBI Issue Offices.
Post October 09, 2023:RBI Issue Offices are accepting ₹2,000 banknotes for deposit into bank accounts.
Public can send ₹2,000 banknotes via India Post from any post office to RBI Issue Offices for credit to their bank accounts.
3) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
RBL Bank has announced integration of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) services on RuPay Credit Cards it sells.
The offering combines multiple payment capabilities into a single card.
Features:UPI Payments: Users can make seamless and secure payments through UPI.
NCMC: Facilitates hassle-free travel with the NCMC feature.
Detailed Explanation:
RBL Bank has announced integration of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) services on RuPay Credit Cards it sells.
The offering combines multiple payment capabilities into a single card.
Features:UPI Payments: Users can make seamless and secure payments through UPI.
NCMC: Facilitates hassle-free travel with the NCMC feature.
Flexibility: The card combines multiple payment capabilities into one, offering flexibility for daily expenses and travel.
Acceptance: The RuPay network ensures extensive usability across various platforms and services throughout India.
Innovation: RBL Bank is the first private sector bank to offer this integrated payment solution, potentially setting a precedent for other banks.
4) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed a $200 million (approximately ₹1,700 crore) loan for solid waste management and sanitation improvements in 100 cities across 8 states in India.
Programme Name:The initiative is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 – Comprehensive Municipal Waste Management in Indian Cities Program.
Detailed Explanation:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed a $200 million (approximately ₹1,700 crore) loan for solid waste management and sanitation improvements in 100 cities across 8 states in India.
Signatories:The loan agreement was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Finance Ministry, and Mio Oka, Country Director for ADB’s India Resident Mission.
Programme Name:The initiative is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 – Comprehensive Municipal Waste Management in Indian Cities Program.
Objectives:Enhancing sanitation and solid waste management infrastructure, including waste segregation, collection, and disposal.
Incorporating international best practices, digital technologies, and climate- and disaster-resilient approaches.
5) Answer: D
Short Explanation:
According to the Ministry of Finance, public sector banks (PSBs) have seen greater than a 34% increase in the amount collected for such penalties over the past five years.
Total Amount Collected:From FY 2020 to FY 2024, PSBs collected approximately ₹8,500 crore in penalties for not maintaining minimum balance in accounts.
Banks Imposing Penalties:11 PSBs levy penalties for not maintaining the minimum balance. Key banks include:
Punjab National Bank (PNB): ₹633 crore in penalties.
Bank of Baroda: ₹387 crore in penalties.
Detailed Explanation:
According to the Ministry of Finance, public sector banks (PSBs) have seen greater than a 34% increase in the amount collected for such penalties over the past five years.
Total Amount Collected:From FY 2020 to FY 2024, PSBs collected approximately ₹8,500 crore in penalties for not maintaining minimum balance in accounts.
Banks Imposing Penalties:11 PSBs levy penalties for not maintaining the minimum balance. Key banks include:
Punjab National Bank (PNB): ₹633 crore in penalties.
Bank of Baroda: ₹387 crore in penalties.
Bank of India, Punjab and Sind Bank, Union Bank of India, and UCO Bank also impose penalties for not maintaining a minimum quarterly average balance (QAB).
6) Answer: E
Short Explanation:
Belgium-headquartered Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), the global specialist in financial transactions, is launching an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven pilot in partnership with Axis Bank to help combat payments fraud occurring in cross-border payments.
SWIFT is also working towards contributing to the cross-border interoperability of potential central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).
Detailed Explanation:
Belgium-headquartered Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT), the global specialist in financial transactions, is launching an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven pilot in partnership with Axis Bank to help combat payments fraud occurring in cross-border payments.
The pilot will use AI algorithms to analyse historical transaction data and detect anomalies indicative of fraud.
SWIFT is also working towards contributing to the cross-border interoperability of potential central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).
7) Answer: C
Short Explanation:
“Reserve Bank of India (Treatment of Wilful Defaulters and Large Defaulters) Directions, 2024”.
Effective Date: The directions will come into force 90 days after being posted on the RBI website.
Definition of Large Defaulter:A large defaulter is a borrower with an outstanding amount of ₹1 crore or more.
Detailed Explanation:
“Reserve Bank of India (Treatment of Wilful Defaulters and Large Defaulters) Directions, 2024”.
Effective Date: The directions will come into force 90 days after being posted on the RBI website.
Definition of Large Defaulter:A large defaulter is a borrower with an outstanding amount of ₹1 crore or more.
Wilful defaulter means a borrower or a guarantor who has committed wilful default and the outstanding amount is ₹25 lakh and above, or as may be notified by Reserve Bank of India from time to time.
8) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a notification specifically addressing Small Value Loans for Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs).
The timeline to achieve specified targets has been extended by two years.
Small Value Loans Definition:UCBs must have at least 50% of their aggregate loans and advances consisting of Small Value Loans.
Detailed Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a notification specifically addressing Small Value Loans for Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs).
The timeline to achieve specified targets has been extended by two years.
Aim : To ensure a significant portion of UCBs’ lending is directed towards smaller, more manageable loans, promoting financial inclusion and risk mitigation.
Small Value Loans Definition:UCBs must have at least 50% of their aggregate loans and advances consisting of Small Value Loans.
Small Value Loans are defined as loans not exceeding ₹25 lakh or 0.2% of their Tier I capital, whichever is higher, up to a maximum of ₹1 crore per borrower.
Target Dates and Percentages:March 31, 2025: Minimum of 40% of aggregate loans and advances should be Small Value Loans.
March 31, 2026: Minimum of 50% of aggregate loans and advances should be Small Value Loans.
9) Answer: D
Short Explanation:
The government’s Smart Cities initiative, proudly presented in the Lok Sabha with Pune as a model for flood monitoring and mitigation, has faced harsh criticism due to the stark contrast between its promises and the on-ground reality.
Overview of the Smart Cities Mission (SCM):
Launch Year:2015
Objective: Develop 100 cities with advanced technology, sustainable infrastructure, and innovative urban planning.
Detailed Explanation:
The government’s Smart Cities initiative, proudly presented in the Lok Sabha with Pune as a model for flood monitoring and mitigation, has faced harsh criticism due to the stark contrast between its promises and the on-ground reality.
Overview of the Smart Cities Mission (SCM):
Launch Year:2015
Objective: Develop 100 cities with advanced technology, sustainable infrastructure, and innovative urban planning.
Current Status (as of July 12, 2024):
Tenders Issued: ₹1,64,223 crore for 8,016 projects.
Projects Completed: 7,218 projects valued at ₹1,45,083 crore.
Mission Period Extended: Until March 31, 2025, to complete the remaining projects.
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in SCM:
Envisioned Investment: ₹2,05,018 crore across 100 Smart Cities.
Expected PPP Contribution: ₹41,022 crore (21% of total investment).
Actual PPP Implementation:
Projects Undertaken: Only 207 projects valued at ₹10,794 crore (6% of the total) executed through PPP.
Half of the Smart Cities: Have not undertaken any PPP projects.
10) Answer: A
Short Explanation:
India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a cornerstone of the country’s digital payment landscape, has reported a significant year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in July 2024.
UPI’s transaction volume reached an impressive 14.44 billion, reflecting a 45% Y-o-Y increase.
The total value of these transactions also saw a substantial rise, increasing by 35% Y-o-Y to reach ₹20.64 trillion, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
Detailed Explanation:
India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a cornerstone of the country’s digital payment landscape, has reported a significant year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in July 2024.
UPI’s transaction volume reached an impressive 14.44 billion, reflecting a 45% Y-o-Y increase.
The total value of these transactions also saw a substantial rise, increasing by 35% Y-o-Y to reach ₹20.64 trillion, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
Financial Year 2025 (FY25) Performance:
Total Transactions: 55.66 billion.
Total Value: ₹80.79 trillion.
Previous Year Milestone (FY24): UPI surpassed 100 billion transactions for the first time, ending the year with 131 billion transactions, compared to 84 billion in FY23.
RBI’s Insights:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in a recent report on currency and finance highlighted the exponential growth of UPI.
The platform has seen a tenfold increase in transaction volume over the past four years, from 12.5 billion transactions in 2019-20 to 131 billion in 2023-24. UPI now accounts for 80% of all digital payment volumes in the country.
11) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
In July 2024, India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections saw a significant year-on-year increase of 10.3%, reaching ₹1.82 trillion (US$ 21.74 billion).
Impact of Refunds: Mr. MS Mani from Deloitte India highlighted the slower pace of refunds, which contributed to the higher net collection growth of 14.4% compared to the gross increase of 10.3%.
Detailed Explanation:
In July 2024, India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections saw a significant year-on-year increase of 10.3%, reaching ₹1.82 trillion (US$ 21.74 billion).
This marks the third-highest monthly collection since the GST regime was implemented on July 1, 2017, primarily driven by robust domestic transactions in goods and services.
Gross GST Revenue: ₹1,82,075 crore (US$ 21.75 billion).
Central GST (CGST): ₹32,386 crore (US$ 3.87 billion).
State GST (SGST): ₹40,289 crore (US$ 4.81 billion).
Integrated GST (IGST): ₹96,447 crore (US$ 11.52 billion).
Compensation Cess: ₹12,953 crore (US$ 1.55 billion).
Impact of Refunds: Mr. MS Mani from Deloitte India highlighted the slower pace of refunds, which contributed to the higher net collection growth of 14.4% compared to the gross increase of 10.3%.
12) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
The Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will meet next month to discuss the potential issuance of Sovereign Gold Bonds(SGB) for the remainder of the fiscal year.
There were 12 SGB issuances in FY21, reduced to 4 in FY24, with none so far in the current fiscal year.
Detailed Explanation:
The Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will meet next month to discuss the potential issuance of Sovereign Gold Bonds(SGB) for the remainder of the fiscal year.
There were 12 SGB issuances in FY21, reduced to 4 in FY24, with none so far in the current fiscal year.
For FY25, the government may consider issuing a lower quantum of SGBs, around ₹18,500 crore, compared to the ₹29,638 crore estimated in the Interim Budget 2024.
The government remains committed to issuing green bonds, although specific issuances may be cancelled if borrowing costs are high.
The target for SGrB issuance is around ₹25,000 crore, with ₹12,000 crore expected to be raised through an auction on August 2.
13) Answer: D
Short Explanation:
The Finance Ministry’s new notification regarding the constitution of the Principal and State Benches of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) brings significant updates and additions.
The Principal Bench will be located in New Delhi.
There will be 31 State Benches across India.
Retired Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra has been appointed as the President of GSTAT.
Detailed Explanation:
The Finance Ministry’s new notification regarding the constitution of the Principal and State Benches of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) brings significant
updates and additions.
The Principal Bench will be located in New Delhi.
There will be 31 State Benches across India.
A total of 63 Judicial Members and 33 Technical Members will be appointed, representing both the Centre and States.
Retired Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra has been appointed as the President of GSTAT.
The Principal Bench will handle matters related to inter-state disputes, while State Benches will address all other issues, including tax rates.
14) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
The European Commission has approved Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s (HPE) $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks, concluding that the merger will not significantly reduce competition in the relevant markets.
UK Antitrust Assessment: The deal is also under review by Britain’s antitrust authority, with a decision expected on August 14.
Detailed Explanation:
The European Commission has approved Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s (HPE) $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks, concluding that the merger will not significantly reduce competition in the relevant markets.
This deal, announced in January, reflects the growing trend of companies investing in upgrading their technology to meet the demands of artificial intelligence-driven services.
Market Position: Post-merger, the combined entity will maintain a moderate market position and will continue to face substantial competition from various other players.
The acquisition highlights the current trend of companies aiming to upgrade and develop new products in response to the rapid growth of AI-driven services.
UK Antitrust Assessment: The deal is also under review by Britain’s antitrust authority, with a decision expected on August 14.
15) Answer: A
Short Explanation:
Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, assumed the office of Director General Medical Services (Army), becoming the first woman to be appointed to this prestigious position.
She was nominated as an expert member of Dr Kasturirangan Committee for drafting part of the medical education component of the National Education Policy.
Detailed Explanation:
Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, assumed the office of Director General Medical Services (Army), becoming the first woman to be appointed to this prestigious position.
Prior to this, she was the first woman to hold the post of DG Hospital Services (Armed Forces) on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal.
She is also the first woman Principal Medical Officer of Western Air Command, and Training Command, Indian Air Force (IAF).
She was nominated as an expert member of Dr Kasturirangan Committee for drafting part of the medical education component of the National Education Policy.
16) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
European air carrier Air France-KLM has appointed Stefan Gumuseli as the new General Manager for the India-Middle East markets, effective August 1, 2024.
Stefan Gumuseli, who is succeeding Simon Scholte, will be based at the airline’s regional office in Dubai, UAE.
Detailed Explanation:
European air carrier Air France-KLM has appointed Stefan Gumuseli as the new General Manager for the India-Middle East markets, effective August 1, 2024.
Stefan Gumuseli, who is succeeding Simon Scholte, will be based at the airline’s regional office in Dubai, UAE.
Overseeing the passenger business for India and the Middle East.
Managing operations in diverse and multicultural countries such as India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Egypt, along with additional offline countries.
Strengthening the overall presence of Air France-KLM in the region.
Enhancing customer proximity and upholding sustainability commitments.
Claude Sarre will continue as the Country Manager for India and the Sub-continent, based in New Delhi.
The India-Middle East region is considered a strategic market for Air France-KLM, with numerous opportunities and immense potential.
17) Answer: C
Short Explanation:
Italy: Via Appia Regina Viarum
Germany: Ensemble Schwerin residence
Malaysia: Niah National Park
Saudi Arabia: Archaeological area of Al-Faw
Romania: Constantin Brâncuși’s sculptural ensemble in Târgu Jiu and the Frontiers of the Roman Empire in Dacia
Detailed Explanation:
Italy is at the top of the UNESCO World Heritage list with 60 sites, the latest being the “Via Appia Regina Viarum” added during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi.
Italy: Via Appia Regina Viarum
Germany: Ensemble Schwerin residence
Malaysia: Niah National Park
Saudi Arabia: Archaeological area of Al-Faw
Romania: Constantin Brâncuși’s sculptural ensemble in Târgu Jiu and the Frontiers of the Roman Empire in Dacia
Length and Location: Approximately 650 kilometres long, running through central and southern Italy.
Construction and Use: The first of Rome’s great roads, built using innovative techniques and inaugurated in 312 B.C. by Appius Claudius Blind. It connected Rome to Capua, later extending to Benevento, Venosa, Taranto, and Brindisi.
18) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
A new World Bank study reveals that over 100 countries, including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa, face significant challenges in achieving high-income status in the coming decades.
Middle-Income Trap Defined: Countries hit a “trap” at about 10% of annual U.S. GDP per capita, equivalent to $8,000 today. This is within the “middle-income” range as classified by the World Bank.
Detailed Explanation:
A new World Bank study reveals that over 100 countries, including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa, face significant challenges in achieving high-income status in the coming decades.
Middle-Income Trap Defined: Countries hit a “trap” at about 10% of annual U.S. GDP per capita, equivalent to $8,000 today. This is within the “middle-income” range as classified by the World Bank.
The 3i Strategy:
1i Phase (Investment): Low-income countries should focus on increasing investment.
2i Phase (Investment and Infusion): Lower-middle-income countries should adopt foreign technologies and integrate them into their economies.
3i Phase (Investment, Infusion, and Innovation): Upper-middle-income countries should innovate and push technological frontiers.
South Korea as a Model: South Korea successfully navigated all three phases, growing from a per capita income of $1,200 in 1960 to $33,000 by the end of 2023. Its journey included increasing public and private investment, adopting foreign technologies, and fostering domestic innovation.
19) Answer: B
Short Explanation:
In 2023, India remained a leading global exporter of agricultural products despite a decline in its export value, maintaining its position as the eighth-largest exporter.
European Union: Maintained the top position with $836 billion in exports, up from $799 billion in 2022.
Detailed Explanation:
In 2023, India remained a leading global exporter of agricultural products despite a decline in its export value, maintaining its position as the eighth-largest exporter.
Total Exports: $51 billion in 2023, down from $55 billion in 2022.
Position: Eighth-largest exporter globally.
Top Exporters:
European Union: Maintained the top position with $836 billion in exports, up from $799 billion in 2022.
United States: Second-largest exporter with $198 billion, down from $222 billion in 2022.
Brazil: Third place with $157 billion, up from $148 billion in 2022.
China: Fourth place with $95 billion, slightly down from $96 billion in 2022.
20) Answer: C
Short Explanation:
Indian shooter Swapnil Kusale achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions final at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Medal Winners:
Gold: Liu Yukun (China) – 463.6 points
Silver: Serhiy Kulish (Ukraine) – 461.3 points
Bronze: Swapnil Kusale (India) – 451.4 points
Detailed Explanation:
Indian shooter Swapnil Kusale achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions final at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
This victory marks India’s first-ever Olympic medal in this event and the third overall in rifle shooting, following Abhinav Bindra’s gold in men’s 10m air rifle at Beijing 2008 and Gagan Narang’s bronze in the same event at London 2012.
Medal Winners:
Gold: Liu Yukun (China) – 463.6 points
Silver: Serhiy Kulish (Ukraine) – 461.3 points
Bronze: Swapnil Kusale (India) – 451.4 points
India’s Performance at Paris 2024:
Total Medals in Shooting: Three medals, all in shooting events.
Manu Bhaker: Bronze in women’s 10m air pistol individual event.
Manu Bhaker & Sarabjot Singh: Bronze in 10m air pistol mixed team.
Swapnil Kusale: Bronze in men’s 50m rifle 3 positions.
