Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 08th January 2025

Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2025 of 08th January 2025. 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 2025 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

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1) In November 2024, central banks around the world increased their gold reserves by 53 tonnes, according to the World Gold Council (WGC). In November, the RBI’s total gold holdings climbed to ____________ tonnes with the addition of 8 tonnes.

(a) 872

(b) 874

(d) 875

(e) 878

2) Recently (Jan’25), the Reserve Bank of India issued a Master Direction on Reporting Customer Credit Information (CIC). Suppose a customer files a complaint about their credit information and it is not resolved within 30 calendar days of the original filing with a CI or CIC. In that case, they are entitled to compensation of how many rupees per calendar day?

(a) Rs.100

(b) Rs.150

(d) Rs.250

(e) Rs.500

3) Recently, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) Enabled Seamless Mobility for 3.2 Million Chennai MTC Commuters via _______________

(a) Visa

(b) RuPay

(d) Maestro

(e) Discover

4) How many crores were invested in SMFG India Credit Company by Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) through a rights issue?

(a) Rs. 3,000 crore

(b) Rs. 2,000 crore

(d) Rs. 4,000 crore

(e) Rs. 5,000 crore

5) Which city hosted an exciting Grand Finale to cap off the 14th season of the SBI Life Spell Bee Season, which is in association with Mirchi, India’s most prestigious spelling competition?

(a) Chennai

(b) Mumbai

(d) Bengaluru

(e) Hyderabad

6) When will the Ministry of Finance’s New Tax Rule Allow Buyers to Avoid Tax Deductions on Purchases from IFSC Sellers?

(a) December 31, 2024

(b) January 1, 2025

(d) January 31, 2025

(e) March 1, 2025

7) Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently officially launched major railway infrastructure projects across India. Which of the following statements is incorrect?

(a) The Prime Minister inaugurated the new Railway Division in Odisha, Jammu & Telangana.

(b) Anji Khad Bridge was India’s first cable-based railway bridge

(d) Metro network expanded from 5 cities to 20 cities.

(e) All the above are correct

8) Which city’s Air Force Station will host the 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s largest aerospace and defense exhibition, on February 10–14, 2025?

(a) Chennai

(b) Mumbai

(d) Bengaluru

(e) Hyderabad

9) The Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) BHARATPOL portal is scheduled to be launched by Union Home Minister and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. At the launch event, how many CBI officers will receive Police Medals from Amit Shah in recognition of their outstanding work and proficiency in criminal investigations?

(a) 36

(b) 32

(d) 34

(e) 35

10) Which Research Directorate in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, recently opened a Center of Excellence for Profiling and Bioactive Components and a Drone Technology Lab?

(a) Cashew

(b) Groundnut

(d) Sunflower seed

(e) Coconut

11) On January 6, 2024, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren gave 56.61 lakh women ₹1,415.44 crore as part of the Maiya Samman Yojana. For women between 18 and 50, the program increased the monthly transfer from ₹1,000 to how many rupees?

(a) Rs.1500

(b) Rs.2000

(d) Rs.3000

(e) Rs.5000

12) According to the HSBC India Services Business Activity Index (Services PMI) increased to 59.3 in December, the highest growth rate in four months, indicating that India’s services sector concluded 2024 on a high note. For the __________ consecutive month, new business inflows rose to their highest level since August 2024.

(a) 40th

(b) 41st

(d) 43rd

(e) 44th

13) Recently, Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, launched the second round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel (PLI Scheme 1.1) at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi. As of November 2024, how many crore has been invested, with 8,300 jobs created?

(a) Rs.18,300 crore

(b) Rs.17,300 crore

(d) Rs.16,300 crore

(e) Rs.15,300 crore

14) The 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards honored both newcomers and familiar faces, with “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Perez” winning top movie awards. Who broke her previous career stigma by winning her first Golden Globe for Lead Actress in “The Substance”?

(a) Anna Sawai

(b) Jeremy Allen

(d) Kieran Culkin

(e) Zoe Saldana

15) On January 1, 2025, which government signed an agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI) and the Union Bank of India (UBI) to provide zero-premium insurance benefits to more than four lakh state government employees?

(a) Gujarat

(b) Assam

(d) Uttar Pradesh

(e) Bihar

16) Which IIT has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Salam Kisan, a prominent agritech platform, to promote agritech innovation through cutting-edge technologies?

(a) IIT Madras

(b) IIT Delhi

(d) IIT Ropar

(e) IIT Kanpur

17) For improved collaboration in the fight against financial crimes, the IRDAI and the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) have signed a memorandum of understanding. When did FIU-IND come into being?

(a) 2000

(b) 2001

(d) 2003

(e) 2004

18) With a startling PM2.5 level of 266 micrograms per cubic meter, Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, was recently named the most polluted city in the world. By which year does Hanoi intend to have 50% of its buses and all of its taxis electric?

(a) 2032

(b) 2027

(d) 2029

(e) 2030

19) Recently, the Goa Shipyard Limited built two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV) for the Indian Coast Guard, Amulya and Akshay, which were launched in Goa. How many FPVs are in the fleet, with the two FPVs being the third and fourth vessels?

(a) 5

(b) 6

(d) 8

(e) 9

20) As per the report, Sister Simona Brambilla is appointed by Pope Francis as the first woman to lead a major Vatican department. In what year was Barbara Jatta the first woman to lead the Vatican Museums?

(a) 2012

(b) 2014

(d) 2015

(e) 2018

21) On January 1, 2025, Lisa McGeough will serve as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HSBC’s U.S. operations.Which year did she start working at HSBC as the Co-Head of Global Banking Coverage, managing Global Banking in Europe?

(a) 2020

(b) 2021

(d) 2019

(e) 2018

22) Which High Court judge, Justice Mayank Kumar Jain, was recently appointed by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) as a judicial member of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT)?

(a) Kolkata

(b) Allahabad

(d) Chattisgarh

(e) Gauhati

23) With effect from January 1, 2025, Emrah Ozer has been named the _______________ of Mercedes-Benz India.

(a) Chief Technology Officer

(b) Chief Financial Officer

(d) Vice President

(e) Director

24) Recently, the Bollywood star, businessman, and sports fan Abhishek Bachchan became a co-owner of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL). How many member cricket nations are partners in the privately held ETPL franchise tournament?

(a) 2

(b) 3

(d) 5

(e) 6

25) Recently in Jan’25, the Suzuki Motor Corporation decided to buy what percentage stake in NDDB Mirda Limited, a bio-gas venture of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), as part of its plans to use Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) to improve vehicle longevity and performance?

(a) 22%

(b) 24%

(d) 28%

(e) 25%

26) How much crore did Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea pay to iBus Network and Infrastructure for their whole ownership of Firefly Networks, a Wi-Fi infrastructure company?

(a) Rs 9 crore

(b) Rs 5 crore

(d) Rs 7 crore

(e) Rs 8 crore

27) Which department has teamed up with venture debt company Stride Ventures to help high-growth startups meet their funding needs?

(a) CCI

(b) DPIIT

(d) SEBI

(e) SIDBI

28) In Australian Open title defense Which nation’s qualifier Polina Kudermetova forfeited to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a fierce final to win?

(a) Canada

(b) South Korea

(d) Norway

(e) Russia

29) Recently, a two-tier Test cricket system is being considered by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in cooperation with the cricket boards of Australia (CA), England (ECB), and India (BCCI). Which year did the idea first encounter resistance, especially from smaller cricket boards like Bangladesh and Zimbabwe?

(a) 2012

(b) 2011

(d) 2015

(e) 2016

30) According to the report, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has announced the official trophies for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. Which of the following assertions is incorrect?

(a) The tournamentwas held in Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi.

(b) Participants include21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries across six continents.

(d) The Mascots are ‘Tejas’ (a gazelle) for the men’s event and ‘Tara’ (another gazelle) for the women’s event.

(e) All are correct

Answers :

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

According to the World Gold Council (WGC), In November 2024, central banks globally added a total of 53 tonnes of gold to their reserves.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) contributed 8 tonnes of this total.

RBI’s Gold Holdings:With the additional 8 tonnes in November, the RBI’s total gold holdings increased to 876 tonnes.

Detailed Explanation:

According to the World Gold Council (WGC), In November 2024, central banks globally added a total of 53 tonnes of gold to their reserves.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) contributed 8 tonnes of this total.

RBI’s Gold Holdings:With the additional 8 tonnes in November, the RBI’s total gold holdings increased to 876 tonnes.

RBI’s year-to-date gold purchases for 2024 stand at 73 tonnes, making it the second-largest buyer of gold for the year, after Poland.

Poland’s Gold Purchases:Poland’s National Bank (NBP) emerged as the largest buyer of gold in November 2024, adding 21 tonnes to its reserves.

Poland’s total gold purchases for the year reached 90 tonnes, bringing its total gold holdings to 448 tonnes.

Uzbekistan’s Gold Purchases:TheCentral Bank of Uzbekistan added 9 tonnes of gold to its reserves in November 2024, marking its first purchase since July.

Uzbekistan’s year-to-date net purchases are now 11 tonnes, with total holdings reaching 382 tonnes.

2) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a Master Direction to consolidate various instructions for banks and financial institutions regarding the reporting of credit information of their customers.

Compensation for Unresolved Complaints:Customers who file complaints regarding credit information are entitled to compensation of Rs 100 per calendar day if the complaint is not resolved within 30 calendar days from the date of the initial filing with a CI or CIC.

Detailed Explanation:

The aim is to establish a standardised framework for reporting and dissemination of credit information and to ensure the confidentiality and security of sensitive credit data.

Purpose of the Master Direction:The master direction aims to ensure the accuracy, security, and confidentiality of customer credit information.

These alerts will be sent only when the CIR enquiry reflects in the customer’s CIR.

Data Correction Request Rejection:Credit Institutions (CIs), including banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), will need to inform customers of the reasons for the rejection of their request for data correction.

This will help customers better understand any issues in their CIR.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has partnered with Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) in Chennai to integrate RuPay on-the-go, a contactless payment solution for public transit.

National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) Program:RuPay on-the-go was launched under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) programme, which aims to simplify public transit across multiple cities in India.

Detailed Explanation:

Beneficiaries:Over 3.2 million daily commuters using Chennai MTC will benefit from this efficient and seamless transit system.

Multi-Modal Ticket Payment:RuPay on-the-go enables multi-modal ticket payment across:

Chennai Metro

MTC buses

Chennai Metro parking facilities

This is facilitated using a single card.

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) infused ₹3,000 crore into SMFG India Credit Company via a rights issue.

Funds Allocation:Of the ₹3,000 crore, ₹300 crore was allocated to SMFG India Home Finance, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMFG India Credit.

Detailed Explanation:

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) infused ₹3,000 crore into SMFG India Credit Company via a rights issue.

Funds Allocation:Of the ₹3,000 crore, ₹300 crore was allocated to SMFG India Home Finance, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMFG India Credit.

Growth in Assets:SMFG India Credit Company reported assets worth ₹49,800 crore under management by September 30, 2024, reflecting a 25% increase from the previous year.

Previous Infusion:InApril 2024, SMFG had infused ₹1,300 crore into the company, marking the highest-ever fund infusion in a single year.

SMFG’s Global Presence:SMFG, based in Tokyo, is classified as one of the global systemically important banks and is among the largest global banking and financial services groups.

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

SBI Life Spell Bee Season in association with Mirchi, India’s most prestigious spelling competition, concluded its 14th season with a thrilling Grand Finale in Kolkata.

The National Champion of SBI Life Spell Bee Season 14 was awarded the prestigious grand prize of INR 1,00,000/– along with an all-expenses-paid expedition to Disneyland, Hong Kong, accompanied by their parents.

Detailed Explanation:

SBI Life Spell Bee Season in association with Mirchi, India’s most prestigious spelling competition, concluded its 14th season with a thrilling Grand Finale in Kolkata.

The competition crowned Chaya M.V. from Presidency School, Bangalore its national champion.

The theme for this year’s competition was ‘Be Spellbound’, which highlights the significance of words and spellings in shaping the expression of today’s youth.

The theme reflects SBI Life’s commitment to providing growth opportunities for India’s young population.

6) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Finance’s new tax rule, effective from January 1, 2025, allows buyers to avoid tax deduction on purchases made from sellers operating within International Financial Services Centres (IFSC).

Simplification of Tax Deduction Process:The rule simplifies the tax deduction process for buyers, provided they follow specific guidelines.

Detailed Explanation:

Simplification of Tax Deduction Process:The rule simplifies the tax deduction process for buyers, provided they follow specific guidelines.

Sellers must submit a declaration detailing the previous years for which they are claiming tax deductions, in the prescribed format and verified as per government guidelines.

Buyers’ Obligation:Once buyers receive the tax declaration from sellers, they are not required to deduct tax on payments made to them.

Objective of the Rule:The new regulation aims to simplify the tax process for businesses within the IFSC, easing their operations and transactions.

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various railway projects, via video conferencing.

Anji Khad Bridge: Indias first cable-based railway bridge.
These projects are set to promote tourism, economic growth, and regional integration.

Charlapalli Terminal: Built at ₹413 crore with modern amenities, including solar-powered operations, lifts, and escalators.

Airports increased from 74 in 2014 to over 150 today.

Metro network expanded from 5 cities to 21 cities.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various railway projects, via video conferencing.

Jammu and Kashmir Milestones:

Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line: Pioneering connectivity across the region.

Chenab Bridge: The world’s highest railway arch bridge.

Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-based railway bridge.
These projects are set to promote tourism, economic growth, and regional integration.

Odisha’s Infrastructure Boost:

Over ₹70,000 crore worth of railway projects underway.

Seven Gati Shakti cargo terminals to boost trade and industry.

Rayagada Railway Division to enhance connectivity and socio-economic development, particularly in tribal regions.

Telangana’s New Terminal:

Charlapalli Terminal: Built at ₹413 crore with modern amenities, including solar-powered operations, lifts, and escalators.

India’s Infrastructure Revolution:

Airports increased from 74 in 2014 to over 150 today.

Metro network expanded from 5 cities to 21 cities.

Expressways and waterways also witnessing significant growth.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, will take place from February 10 to 14, 2025, at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Detailed Explanation:

With the theme “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities”, the event aims to enhance partnerships between Indian and global firms, accelerate indigenization in the defence sector, and showcase cutting-edge technologies.

Defence Ministers’ Conclave

Theme: “BRIDGE – Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement”.

Aero India’s Legacy

Established in 1996, Aero India has grown into a globally acclaimed aerospace event.

9) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, is set to launch the BHARATPOL portal, developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Digital Solutions: Replaces outdated communication methods (letters, emails, faxes) with faster, digital communication for CBI and INTERPOL Liaison Officers (ILOs) and Unit Officers (UOs).

During the launch event, Amit Shah will present Police Medals to 35 CBI officers for their distinguished service and excellence in criminal investigations.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, is set to launch the BHARATPOL portal, developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The event will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

The portal promises to enhance real-time information sharing among law enforcement agencies (LEAs) across India and internationally, enabling quicker responses to transnational crimes.

International Requests: The portal will centralize and expedite requests related to criminal investigations, such as Red Notices and other INTERPOL notices.

Target Areas: Focus on combating cybercrime, financial fraud, human trafficking, and organized crime.

During the launch event, Amit Shah will present Police Medals to 35 CBI officers for their distinguished service and excellence in criminal investigations.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Directorate of Cashew Research (DCR) in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, has recently launched a Drone Technology Lab and a Centre of Excellence for Profiling and Bioactive Components.

Detailed Explanation:

The Directorate of Cashew Research (DCR) in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, has recently launched a Drone Technology Lab and a Centre of Excellence for Profiling and Bioactive Components.

The lab is designed to drive innovation in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) applications, particularly for plantation crops.

It is equipped with advanced drone systems and data processing tools, providing a platform for smart farming and research into sustainable agricultural practices.

The Centre is dedicated to exploring and analyzing the phytochemicals present in cashew apples, nuts, kernels, shells, and leaves.

11) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren transferred ₹1,415.44 crore to 56.61 lakh women under the Maiya Samman Yojana on January 6, 2024.

The scheme was a key promise made by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA bloc ahead of the Assembly elections.

The scheme increased the monthly transfer to women from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 for women aged between 18 to 50 years.

Detailed Explanation:

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren transferred ₹1,415.44 crore to 56.61 lakh women under the Maiya Samman Yojana on January 6, 2024.

The scheme was a key promise made by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA bloc ahead of the Assembly elections.

The scheme increased the monthly transfer to women from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 for women aged between 18 to 50 years.

The December instalment of ₹2,500 was transferred, and the January instalment would be transferred later.

₹30,000 annually is provided to women under the scheme.

Direct Transfer Impact:Direct monthly cash transfers of ₹2,500 were aimed at boosting household income, especially in rural areas, improving women’s financial autonomy.

12) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India’s services sector ended 2024 on a high note, with the HSBC India Services Business Activity Index (Services PMI) rising to 59.3 in December, marking the strongest rate of expansion in four months.

New Business: New business inflows increased for the 41st consecutive month, reaching their highest level since August 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

This growth was driven by sustained demand, higher new business inflows, and increased recruitment.

December PMI: 59.3, up from 58.4 in November, signaling continued expansion.

New Business: New business inflows increased for the 41st consecutive month, reaching their highest level since August 2024.

Employment: Companies hired more workers, with employment growth softening from November but still among the strongest since December 2005.

Consumer Services: Faced the strongest cost pressures among the sectors, while Transport, Information, and Communication saw the highest charge inflation.

13) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, launched the second round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel, also known as PLI Scheme 1.1, at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi.

Budget Allocation: The scheme will operate within the originally allocated funds of ₹6,322 crore.

Duration: The scheme will run from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30.

Current Investment: As of November 2024, ₹18,300 crore has been invested, with 8,300 jobs created.

Estimated Payout: The total payout for the first round participants is expected to be around ₹2,000 crore.

Detailed Explanation:

Scheme Details

Budget Allocation: The scheme will operate within the originally allocated funds of ₹6,322 crore.

Duration: The scheme will run from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30.

The PLI Scheme 1.1 covers five product categories:

Coated/Plated Steel Products

High Strength/Wear-resistant Steel

Specialty Rails

Alloy Steel Products & Steel Wires

Electrical Steel

These products are crucial for various applications such as in white goods, transformers, automobiles, and other niche sectors.

Outcomes from First Round of PLI Scheme

Commitment: 44 projects from 26 companies with a committed investment of ₹27,106 crore and 24 million tonnes of downstream capacity.

Current Investment: As of November 2024, ₹18,300 crore has been invested, with 8,300 jobs created.

Estimated Payout: The total payout for the first round participants is expected to be around ₹2,000 crore.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards showcased a stellar night for a mix of newcomers and familiar faces, with “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Perez” taking top movie honours.

Zoe Saldana‘s win for Supporting Actress in “Emilia Perez” was emotional, marking her first Golden Globe.

Demi Moore won her first Golden Globe for Lead Actress in “The Substance”, breaking her earlier career stigma.

Detailed Explanation:

The 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards showcased a stellar night for a mix of newcomers and familiar faces, with “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Perez” taking top movie honours.

Meanwhile, the TV category saw “Shogun” dominate with multiple awards, solidifying its place in the 2024 award season.

Top Film Awards

“The Brutalist” won Best Drama along with Best Actor (Adrien Brody) and Best Director (Brady Corbet). Corbet called for more freedom for directors to challenge audiences with unique, thought-provoking films.

“Emilia Perez”, a buoyant Netflix musical, led with four awards, including Best Non-English Language Film (representing France), Supporting Actress (Zoe Saldana), and Best Song (“El Mal”).

“Wicked” won the Cinematic and Box-office Achievement Award for its commercial success, grossing over $680 million worldwide.

Breakthrough Winners

Zoe Saldana‘s win for Supporting Actress in “Emilia Perez” was emotional, marking her first Golden Globe.

Demi Moore won her first Golden Globe for Lead Actress in “The Substance”, breaking her earlier career stigma.

Sebastian Stan took Best Actor in a Musical/Comedy for “A Different Man”.

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Assam government entered into an agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI) and Union Bank of India (UBI) on January 1, 2025.

This initiative aims to provide over four lakh state government employees with zero-premium insurance benefits.

Detailed Explanation:

The Assam government entered into an agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI) and Union Bank of India (UBI) on January 1, 2025.

This initiative aims to provide over four lakh state government employees with zero-premium insurance benefits.

Insurance Coverage Details:Employees will receive comprehensive financial protection through the following benefits at no extra cost:

Term Life Insurance: Ensures financial security for the family in case of the insured’s death during the policy period.

Accidental Death Insurance: Provides compensation for deaths caused by accidents.

Permanent Total and Partial Disability Insurance: Offers financial support for disabilities that may hinder the employee’s ability to work.

Air Accidental Insurance: Covers risks during air travel accidents.

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Salam Kisan, a leading agritech platform, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar to foster agritech innovation through advanced technologies.

The partnership was officially announced at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit 2024 in Dubai.

Detailed Explanation:

The partnership was officially announced at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit 2024 in Dubai.

Technological Collaboration: The partnership aims to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and cyber-physical systems to empower farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Skill Development: A focus will be on skilling and upskilling farmers to improve their digital literacy and capabilities.

Sustainable Agriculture: The collaboration will also promote methods that enhance the sustainability of agricultural practices.

Support for Agritech Start-ups: The MoU includes mentoring for early-stage agritech start-ups, providing resources and guidance to scale their solutions.

17) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at strengthening their collaborative efforts to implement anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) measures.

FIU-IND: Established in 2004 by the Government of India, it is responsible for receiving, analyzing, and sharing information regarding suspicious financial transactions to combat money laundering and related crimes.

Detailed Explanation:

Mutual Cooperation: Focus on collaboration between FIU-IND and IRDAI in the areas of anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT).

Appointment of Nodal Officers: Each organization will appoint nodal officers for smooth communication and coordination.

Information Sharing: The MoU outlines procedures for sharing intelligence and defining reporting procedures under the Prevention of Money Laundering (PML) Rules.

IRDAI: A statutory body formed under the IRDA Act, 1999, tasked with supervising and promoting the growth of the insurance sector in India. It aims to protect policyholders’ interests and ensure a fair, transparent, and orderly insurance market.

18) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has recently been identified as the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels reaching an alarming 266 micrograms per cubic meter.

EV Adoption Targets:
Hanoi plans to ensure 50% of buses and 100% of taxis are electric by 2030.

Detailed Explanation:

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has recently been identified as the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels reaching an alarming 266 micrograms per cubic meter.

This severe air quality situation has raised health concerns and triggered governmental actions to mitigate the crisis.

Heavy Traffic:
The city’sdense traffic contributes significantly to the increasing pollution levels.

Trash Burning:
Open waste burning releases harmful pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues.

Industrial Activities:
Factory emissions and industrial sites contribute to the deteriorating air quality.

Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs):
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has urged a rapid shift toward electric vehicles to help combat pollution.

EV Adoption Targets:
Hanoi plans to ensure 50% of buses and 100% of taxis are electric by 2030.

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) – Amulya and Akshay – indigenously designed and constructed by the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) were launched in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar in Goa on January 05, 2025.

The two FPVs are the third and fourth vessels of the fleet of eight FPVs being constructed by GSL for ICG, underscoring the shipyard’s pivotal role in realising the vision of Aatmanirbharta in defence production.

Detailed Explanation:

The first two FPVs of the same series – Adamya and Akshar – were launched in October 2024.

The contract was concluded in March 2022 for Rs 473 crore.

With over 60% indigenous content, these state-of-the-art FPVs are designed in-house by GSL to meet ICG’s specific operational needs.

With a length of 52 meters and a displacement of 320 tonnes, these vessels will strengthen ICG in protecting offshore assets and island territories.

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Pope Francis has appointed Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman to head a major Vatican department, the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.

Pope Francis had previously appointed women to important roles, such as Barbara Jatta as the first woman to lead the Vatican Museums in 2016, and women in senior positions in the Vatican’s development, family life, and press offices.

Detailed Explanation:

Pope Francis has appointed Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman to head a major Vatican department, the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.

Role and Responsibilities: Brambilla will oversee the world’s Catholic religious orders, marking a significant milestone in the church’s history. She replaces Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, who had served in the role since 2011 and is retiring at the age of 77.

21) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Lisa McGeough has been appointed as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HSBC’s U.S. operations, effective from January 1, 2025.

She joined HSBC in 2021 as Co-Head of Global Banking Coverage, overseeing Global Banking Europe.

Detailed Explanation:

Lisa McGeough has been appointed as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HSBC’s U.S. operations, effective from January 1, 2025.

McGeough will be based in New York City and report to Michael Roberts, the newly appointed CEO of HSBC Bank plc and CEO of Corporate and Institutional Banking.

McGeough brings over 35 years of experience in the banking sector.

She joined HSBC in 2021 as Co-Head of Global Banking Coverage, overseeing Global Banking Europe.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Justice Mayank Kumar Jain, a former judge of the Allahabad High Court, has been appointed as a judicial member of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) by the Ministry of Finance (MoF).

Current SAT Structure:SAT currently operates with a single bench led by Justice Dinesh Kumar, a former Karnataka High Court judge, who became the presiding officer in April 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

Justice Mayank Kumar Jain, a former judge of the Allahabad High Court, has been appointed as a judicial member of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) by the Ministry of Finance (MoF).

Current SAT Structure:SAT currently operates with a single bench led by Justice Dinesh Kumar, a former Karnataka High Court judge, who became the presiding officer in April 2024.

Jurisdiction:SAT hears appeals against orders from:

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)

Stock exchanges and depositories

Tenure of Members:The tenure for the presiding officer and members is five years from the date of appointment, with eligibility for reappointment for another term of up to five years.

23) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Emrah Ozer has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Mercedes-Benz India, effective from January 1, 2025.

Ozer succeeds Evren Cakabey, who has been appointed as the Executive Director & CFO of Mercedes-Benz G GmbH, Austria, also effective January 1, 2025.

Detailed Explanation:

Emrah Ozer has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Mercedes-Benz India, effective from January 1, 2025.

This appointment is part of an organizational change in the finance and controlling function at Mercedes-Benz India.

Ozer succeeds Evren Cakabey, who has been appointed as the Executive Director & CFO of Mercedes-Benz G GmbH, Austria, also effective January 1, 2025.

Ozer will be inducted into the Board of Mercedes-Benz India as an Executive Director in the future.

24) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Abhishek Bachchan, Bollywood actor, entrepreneur, and sports enthusiast, will join the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) as a co-owner.

ETPL is a privately-owned franchise tournament in partnership with three member cricket nations: Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands.

Detailed Explanation:

Abhishek Bachchan, Bollywood actor, entrepreneur, and sports enthusiast, will join the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) as a co-owner.

Bachchan’s Existing Sports Ventures:This marks an expansion of Bachchan’s involvement in sports leagues, as he already co-owns:

Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) (football).

Jaipur Pink Panthers in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) (kabaddi).

ETPL is a privately-owned franchise tournament in partnership with three member cricket nations: Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands.

25) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Suzuki Motor Corporation has decided to acquire a 26% stake in NDDB Mirda Limited, a bio-gas venture of National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), as part of its plans to use Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) for longevity and performance of vehicles.

The remaining 74% will remain with NDDB.

Detailed Explanation:

The remaining 74% will remain with NDDB.

There is also a provision in the deal, whereby Suzuki can gradually increase their equity in the company to 49%.

Suzuki want to focus on sustainability of vehicles through CBG and compressed natural gas (CNG).

Suzuki R&D Center India Private Limited (SRDI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, entered into an agreement with NDDB to invest in its bio-gas subsidiary NDDB Mirda Ltd.

26) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea sold their entire stake in Firefly Networks, a Wi-Fi infrastructure company, to iBus Network and Infrastructure for Rs 9 crore.

Firefly Networks Limited was a 50-50 joint venture between Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea sold their entire stake in Firefly Networks, a Wi-Fi infrastructure company, to iBus Network and Infrastructure for Rs 9 crore.

Firefly Networks Limited was a 50-50 joint venture between Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel.

The deal is expected to close within 30 business days from the date of the agreement between the firms.

Firefly Networks manages and monetizes Wi-Fi hotspots, providing Wi-Fi infrastructure to various partners like educational institutes and hospitals.

iBus Network and Infrastructure, the buyer, is backed by prominent investors like the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

27) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has partnered with Stride Ventures, a venture debt firm, to support high-growth potential startups in fulfilling their funding needs.

Detailed Explanation:

Objectives of the Collaboration:This partnership aims to create significant opportunities for startups by combining financial support, strategic mentorship, and market access.

Stride Ventures will focus on identifying startups with high growth potential, providing funding, and offering market access and policy support.

28) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defeated Russian qualifier Polina Kudermetova in a hard-fought final, securing victory with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-2.

The win sets a confident tone for Sabalenka ahead of her Australian Open title defense.

Detailed Explanation:

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defeated Russian qualifier Polina Kudermetova in a hard-fought final, securing victory with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-2.

The win sets a confident tone for Sabalenka ahead of her Australian Open title defense.

Sabalenka is aiming to become the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to claim three consecutive Australian Open titles.

Jiri Lehecka won the Brisbane men’s singles title after Reilly Opelka retired due to injury while trailing 4-1 in the opening set.

29) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The International Cricket Council (ICC), in collaboration with the cricket boards of India (BCCI), England (ECB), and Australia (CA), is evaluating the introduction of a two-tier Test cricket system.

The concept faced opposition in 2016, particularly from smaller cricket boards like Zimbabwe and Bangladesh.

Detailed Explanation:

What is the Two-Tier Test System?

The system proposes dividing Test-playing nations into two divisions based on their rankings.

Timeline and Future Implementation:

If approved, the system will be introduced after the current Future Tours Program (FTP) ends in 2027, allowing time for preparations and adjustments.

Past Resistance and Current Debates:

The concept faced opposition in 2016, particularly from smaller cricket boards like Zimbabwe and Bangladesh, citing concerns about:

Revenue losses for smaller nations.

Reduced opportunities to play against top-tier teams.

30) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has unveiled the official trophies for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place.

Tournament Details:

Location:Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi.

Participants: 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries across six continents.

Trophies:

Blue Trophy for the men’s championship.

Green Trophy for the women’s event.

Mascots:‘Tejas’ (a gazelle) for the men’s event and ‘Tara’ (another gazelle) for the women’s event.

Detailed Explanation:

The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has unveiled the official trophies for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place.

Tournament Details:

Location:Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi.

Participants: 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries across six continents.

Trophies:

Blue Trophy for the men’s championship.

Green Trophy for the women’s event.

Mascots:‘Tejas’ (a gazelle) for the men’s event and ‘Tara’ (another gazelle) for the women’s event.

The World Cup aims to be a landmark event, showcasing global talent and highlighting India’s sporting heritage in this indigenous sport.

The second edition of the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League (REIHL) is being held in Ladakh, from January 4-13, 2025, at the Nawang DorjayStobdan (NDS) Stadium, Leh.

This post was last modified on January 11, 2025 1:12 pm

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Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 08th January 2025

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