Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 16th August 2024

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Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 16th 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.

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1) The revenue of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is not subject to income tax for a period of five years, ending in the fiscal year 2027–2028, according to a statement from the finance ministry. Which year’s Aadhaar Act created UIDAI as a formal authority?

(a) 2012

(b) 2014

(d) 2018

(e) 2015

2) To how many basis points has the largest lender in India, State Bank of India (SBI), raised its marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR)?

(a) 20bps

(b) 10bps

(d) 25bps

(e) 30bps

3) In order to handle troubled loans outside of court, banks have requested the government to set up more regular Lok Adalats through Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs). Currently, all courts in the nation hold National Lok Adalats on a single day. How many times are they held annually?

(a) 2

(b) 3

(d) 5

(e) 6

4) On August 17, 2024, India will play home to the __________ Voice of Global South Summit. The theme for the entire event is “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.”

(a) 2nd

(b) 3rd

(d) 1st

(e) 5th

5) The Ramsar site network now has 85 total, with the addition of three additional wetlands announced by the Environment Ministry of India. Out of the following pairs, which one is wrong?

(a) Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary- Tiruppur district, TN

(b) Tawa Reservoir- Madhya Pradesh

(d) Only C

(e) Both A&B

6) The Independence Day Address of Prime Minister Narendra Modi included a tribute to freedom fighters, a vision for “Viksit Bharat 2047,” and a commitment to reform. Modi promoted the use of millets, often known as _____________, as a superfood and called for its widespread promotion.

(a) Shree Devi

(b) Healthy Food

(d) Nature’s Gift

(e) Crazy Millet

7) For the second time in the past two years, the World Health Organization (WHO) has deemed monkeypox a worldwide public health emergency.With instances in how many nations, this is a 160% increase over the same period last year?

(a) 12

(b) 11

(d) 15

(e) 14

8) Which state government has ordered all state agencies to stop doing business with Punjab National Bank (PNB) and State Bank of India (SBI)?

(a) Telangana

(b) Karnataka

(d) Odisha

(e) Rajasthan

9) The chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu, has instructed authorities to create an action plan for the establishment of 100 industrial development parks centered around food processing, aquaculture, horticulture, and minerals. He drew attention to the fact that Andhra Pradesh now only has ___________ industrial parks, whereas _____________ leads the nation in this regard.

(a) 51, Madhya Pradesh

(b) 52, Gujarat

(d) 50, Assam

(e) 55, West Bengal

10) The HIM-UNNATI plan, a new effort by the Himachal Pradesh government, aims to promote natural farming throughout the state. How much crores is the allocation for the scheme?

(a) Rs.100crore

(b) Rs.150crore

(d) Rs.250crore

(e) Rs.300crore

11) Madhya Pradesh is the first state in India to give money to female students directly so they may buy sanitary napkins. A one-year allocation of ________ has been made to the accounts of all qualifying female students under the Sanitation and Hygiene Scheme.

(a) Rs.200

(b) Rs.300

(d) Rs.500

(e) Rs.600

12) What percentage represents the July 2024 annual inflation rate based on the All India Wholesale Price Index (WPI), down from 3.36% in June 2024?

(a) 2.03%

(b) 2.02%

(d) 2.04%

(e) 2.05%

13) What percentage of India’s total exports (goods and services combined) increased from July 2023 to July 2024, when they were predicted to be USD 62.42 billion?

(a) 2.82%

(b) 2.80%

(d) 2.83%

(e) 2.85%

14) Indian President Droupadi Murmu has authorized 103 gallantry awards for Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces. How many awards have they received for their outstanding services to military operations, including a posthumous one for Army Dog Kent?

(a) 32

(b) 35

(d) 39

(e) 37

15) Aditya Mandloi has been appointed by Standard Chartered Bank to the position of Head of Wealth and Retail Banking (WRB) for India and South Asia. How many countries will Mandloi be in charge of leading the WRB business?

(a) 4

(b) 5

(d) 6

(e) 2

16) The next Union ___________ Secretary will be Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer Govind Mohan, appointed by the Center.

(a) Foreign

(b) Home

(d) Defence

(e) MSME

17) Which nation has appointed former Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra as India’s Ambassador?

(a) Russia

(b) USA

(d) Japan

(e) China

18) Which nation’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, has announced his resignation in September.He won a general election soon after being chosen as the party’s president in September 2021 for a three-year term?

(a) Russia

(b) France

(d) Japan

(e) China

19) As per a government decree, who was the full-time Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) appointed by the Center for a two-year term?

(a) Sanjay Kumar

(b) Rahul Navin

(d) Atul Kumar

(e) Rishi Agarwal

20) Which version of the joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, known as “Mitra Shakti,” got underway at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka, on August 12, 2024?

(a) 9th

(b) 10th

(d) 12th

(e) 8th

21) India’s captain Rohit Sharma has risen to the second spot among hitters in the most current ICC ODI rankings because of his outstanding performance in the recent series against which nation?

(a) Afghanisthan

(b) New Zealand

(d) Srilanka

(e) Australia

22) Dodda Ganesh, a former Indian all-rounder, has been named the men’s cricket team’s head coach in Kenya. Which nation will co-host the 2026 Twenty20 World Cup with India, giving Kenya a chance to make a comeback to international cricket?

(a) Afghanistan

(b) New Zealand

(d) Srilanka

(e) Australia

23) A month prior to the team’s impending match in Stockholm versus Sweden, Zeeshan Ali tendered his resignation as coach of the Indian Davis Cup squad. For how many consecutive years did he coach the team?

(a) 10

(b) 9

(d) 12

(e) 13

24) After winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, Indian hockey star PR Sreejesh has declared his retirement. Hockey India honored Sreejesh’s achievements with a trophy and a monetary reward of how many lakhs?

(a) Rs.10lakh

(b) Rs.15lakh

(d) Rs.25lakh

(e) Rs.30lakh

25) Which state elected Mohan Yadav as Chief Minister?

(a) Madhya Pradesh

(b) Karnataka

(d) Maharashtra

(e) Rajasthan

Answers :

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The finance ministry has exempted the income of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) from payment of income tax for five years, extending until the fiscal year 2027-28.

The exemption was formalized through a notification issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) under the Ministry of Finance.

UIDAI is a statutory authority established under the Aadhaar Act, 2016, tasked with ensuring compliance with the Act and making regulations and rules consistent with it.

Detailed Explanation:

The finance ministry has exempted the income of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) from payment of income tax for five years, extending until the fiscal year 2027-28.

The exemption was formalized through a notification issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) under the Ministry of Finance.

The notification will apply for the assessment years 2024-2025, 2025-2026, 2026-2027, 2027-2028, and 2028-2029.

The exemption is subject to UIDAI not engaging in any commercial activity.

The nature of the specified income and activities must remain unchanged throughout the financial years.

UIDAI is a statutory authority established under the Aadhaar Act, 2016, tasked with ensuring compliance with the Act and making regulations and rules consistent with it.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest lender, has increased its marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR) by 10 basis points.

The revised rates are effective from August 14, 2024.

Overnight MCLR: Increased from 8.10% to 8.20%.

Monthly MCLR: Risen from 8.35% to 8.45%.

3-Month MCLR: Increased from 8.40% to 8.50%.

Detailed Explanation:

State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest lender, has increased its marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR) by 10 basis points.

The revised rates are effective from August 14, 2024.

Overnight MCLR: Increased from 8.10% to 8.20%.

Monthly MCLR: Risen from 8.35% to 8.45%.

3-Month MCLR: Increased from 8.40% to 8.50%.

The increase in MCLR rates is likely to result in a similar rise in interest rates on loans and consequently, higher EMIs for loans linked to MCLR.

MCLR is a crucial factor in determining the cost of borrowing for individuals and businesses in India.

It represents the minimum interest rate a bank can charge on a loan, determined by the bank’s cost of funds, operating costs, and a profit margin.

3) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Banks have urged the government to organize more frequent Lok Adalats through Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) to address distressed loans outside of court.

National Lok Adalats are currently held on a single dayacross all courts in the country, four times a year.

The Supreme Court conducted a special Lok Adalat from July 29 to August 3.

Detailed Explanation:

Banks have urged the government to organize more frequent Lok Adalats through Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) to address distressed loans outside of court.

Public sector banks (PSBs) believe that increasing the frequency of these adalats will accelerate the process of loan recovery.

Under existing laws, cases where the loan outstanding does not exceed ₹20 lakh can be taken to Lok Adalat for amicable resolution.

In FY23, approximately 14.2 million cases involving ₹1.88 lakh crore were referred to Lok Adalats, recovering around ₹3,831 crore.

A bank official noted that pushing state-level authorities to organize more Lok Adalat camps could help quickly dispose of cases, especially where borrowers are willing to settle.

National Lok Adalats are currently held on a single dayacross all courts in the country, four times a year.

The Supreme Court conducted a special Lok Adalat from July 29 to August 3.

State-level adalats are organized by state legal services authorities based on local conditions and needs.

Lok Adalat is meant for conciliated settlement of disputes outside Courts. It is also called People’s Court.

4) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India is set to host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on August 17, 2024.

This Summit is a continuation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas” and is rooted in the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which envisions the world as one family.

The 1st Voice of Global South Summit was held on January 12-13, 2023, and the 2nd on November 17, 2023, both in virtual formats.

Detailed Explanation:

India is set to host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on August 17, 2024.

The 1st Voice of Global South Summit was held on January 12-13, 2023, and the 2nd on November 17, 2023, both in virtual formats.

The overarching theme is “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.”

The Summit will be held virtually, consisting of an Inaugural Leaders’ Session and 10 Ministerial Sessions.

Foreign Ministers: “Charting a Unique Paradigm for Global South”

Health Ministers: “One World-One Health”

Youth Ministers: “Youth Engagement for a Better Future”

Commerce/Trade Ministers: “Trade for Development- Perspectives from Global South”

Information & Technology Ministers: “DPIs for Development- A Global South Approach”

Finance Ministers: “People-Centric Approach to Global Finance”

Second Foreign Ministers: “Global South and Global Governance”

Energy Ministers: “Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future”

Education Ministers: “Prioritising Human Resource Development: A Global South Perspective”

Environment Ministers: “Pathways for Progress- A Global South Perspective on Mitigating Climate Change”

5) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary: Located in Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu. It supports diverse flora and fauna, including 191 bird species and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds.

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary: A brackish lake in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, connected to the Bay of Bengal. It is a key stopover for migratory birds and a breeding ground for resident species.

Tawa Reservoir: Situated at the confluence of the Tawa and Denwa rivers in Madhya Pradesh, inside the Satpura Tiger Reserve. It provides habitat for rare and endangered species and supports local and migratory birds.

Detailed Explanation:

The Environment Ministry of India announced the inclusion of three new wetlands into the Ramsar site network, increasing the total count to 85.

The newly designated Ramsar sites are the Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary and Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, and the Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh.

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary: Located in Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu. It supports diverse flora and fauna, including 191 bird species and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds.

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary: A brackish lake in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, connected to the Bay of Bengal. It is a key stopover for migratory birds and a breeding ground for resident species.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined the government’s plan to achieve the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’ emphasizing a transformative vision to make India a developed nation by its centenary of independence.

Promotion of Millets:Modi advocated for the global promotion of millets (referred to as ‘Shri anna’), emphasizing their importance as a superfood.

Detailed Explanation:

Jal Jeevan Mission: The mission has successfully provided potable water to 15 crore beneficiaries, marking a significant milestone.

Promotion of Millets:Modi advocated for the global promotion of millets (referred to as ‘Shri anna’), emphasizing their importance as a superfood.

National Pride: The Prime Minister expressed pride in India’s enhanced national security, noting the positive public response to surgical and air strikes conducted by the armed forces.

Global Recognition: PM Modi pointed out the strengthening of the banking sector, with Indian banks now ranking among the strongest globally. He described the path of reforms as a blueprint for growth rather than mere rhetoric.

7) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.

This follows an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighbouring countries in Africa.

Africa’s top public health body also declared mpox an emergency earlier this week.

This marks a 160% increase compared to the same period last year, with cases in 13 countries.

Detailed Explanation:

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.

This follows an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighbouring countries in Africa.

Africa’s top public health body also declared mpox an emergency earlier this week.

This marks a 160% increase compared to the same period last year, with cases in 13 countries.

Mpox has two distinct viral clades: Clade I and Clade II.

Both clades can spread through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.

The WHO ended the 2022 emergency declaration after 10 months.

Mpox cases in the U.S. have significantly declined since their peak in 2022.

Average daily cases in the U.S. fell to zero in the week ending August 1, 2024.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Karnataka government has directed all state departments to close their accounts in the State Bank of India (SBI) and Punjab National Bank (PNB).

This directive includes the recovery of deposits and prohibits further deposits or investments in these banks.

All departments are required to comply with this directive by September 20.

Detailed Explanation:

The Karnataka government has directed all state departments to close their accounts in the State Bank of India (SBI) and Punjab National Bank (PNB).

This directive includes the recovery of deposits and prohibits further deposits or investments in these banks.

All departments are required to comply with this directive by September 20.

The order was issued through a circular dated August 12 from PC Jaffer, Secretary (Budget & Resources), Finance Department, and has been approved by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Fixed Deposit at PNB:

A fixed deposit of ₹25 crore at PNB’s Rajajinagar branch, initiated by the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board on September 14, 2011, was only partially released.

Despite the term ending, PNB allegedly disbursed only ₹13 crore, with unresolved issues over the past decade.

Fixed Deposit at SBI:

A ₹10 crore fixed deposit with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, formerly with the State Bank of Mysore and now part of SBI, was misused to settle loans of a private company with forged documents.

Efforts to recover this amount have also been unsuccessful.

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to formulate an action plan for establishing 100 food processing, aqua, horticulture, and mineral-based industrial development parks.

Naidu chaired a meeting to review the functioning of the Departments of Industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

He pointed out that Maharashtra leads the country in the number of industrial parks, while Andhra Pradesh currently has only 53 such parks. He called for action to increase this number.

Detailed Explanation:

He emphasized that Andhra Pradesh has the “most favourable atmosphere for establishing such units.”

Naidu chaired a meeting to review the functioning of the Departments of Industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

He pointed out that Maharashtra leads the country in the number of industrial parks, while Andhra Pradesh currently has only 53 such parks. He called for action to increase this number.

Naidu specifically directed officials to take steps to revive the Malavalli Industrial Park in Vijayawada, which had been neglected by the previous government.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new initiative, the HIM-UNNATI scheme, aimed at promoting natural farming across the state.

The scheme has an allocation of ₹150 crore and will support approximately 1.92 lakh farmers who are already practising chemical-free farming on over 32,149 hectares of land.

Detailed Explanation:

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new initiative, the HIM-UNNATI scheme, aimed at promoting natural farming across the state.

The scheme has an allocation of ₹150 crore and will support approximately 1.92 lakh farmers who are already practising chemical-free farming on over 32,149 hectares of land.

HIM-UNNATI will focus on making the agriculture sector economically viable by promoting a cluster-based development model and natural farming practices.

The scheme will consolidate smallholding farmers to enable bulk production, ensuring a sufficient marketable surplus.

The initiative will integrate various ongoing agricultural schemes and coordinate with departments such as animal husbandry, horticulture, fisheries, and rural development to maximize the impact.

The scheme is expected to generate self-employment opportunities for approximately 50,000 farmers through the creation of 2,600 focused agricultural clusters.

It is also anticipated to increase productivity by 15-20% in vegetables and cereals in the state.

11) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to provide money directly to girl students for purchasing sanitary napkins.

Unlike states such as Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Delhi, which offer free sanitary napkins, Madhya Pradesh is implementing a cash transfer system.

Under the Sanitation and Hygiene Scheme, an amount of ₹300 has been transferred to each eligible girl student’s account for one year.

Detailed Explanation:

Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to provide money directly to girl students for purchasing sanitary napkins.

Unlike states such as Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Delhi, which offer free sanitary napkins, Madhya Pradesh is implementing a cash transfer system.

Under the Sanitation and Hygiene Scheme, an amount of ₹300 has been transferred to each eligible girl student’s account for one year.

The scheme benefits approximately 19 lakh students from classes seventh to twelfth.

During a recent program, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan announced the inclusion of Rani Durgavati in the curriculum of government schools in the state.

12) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The annual inflation rate based on the All India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for July 2024 stands at 2.04%, a decrease from 3.36% in June 2024.

This positive inflation rate is primarily attributed to increases in prices of food articles, mineral oils, and crude petroleum & natural gas.

Detailed Explanation:

The annual inflation rate based on the All India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for July 2024 stands at 2.04%, a decrease from 3.36% in June 2024.

This positive inflation rate is primarily attributed to increases in prices of food articles, mineral oils, and crude petroleum & natural gas.

All Commodities: Index at 155.2 with inflation at 2.04%.

Primary Articles: Index at 197.6 with inflation at 3.08%.

Fuel & Power: Index at 147.9 with inflation at 1.72%.

Manufactured Products: Index at 141.7 with inflation at 1.58%.

Food Index: Index at 195.4 with inflation at 3.55%.

The WPI index for July 2024 shows a month-over-month increase of 0.84% compared to June 2024.

Primary Articles saw the most significant increase of 3.13%.

Fuel & Power increased by 0.14%.

Manufactured Products experienced a slight decline of 0.14%.

The WPI Food Index, which includes food articles and food products, increased from 190.3 in June 2024 to 195.4 in July 2024.

The year-over-year inflation rate for the Food Index decreased significantly from 8.68% in June 2024 to 3.55% in July 2024.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India’s total exports (merchandise and services combined) for July 2024 were estimated at USD 62.42 billion, reflecting a growth of 2.81% compared to July 2023.

Imports: Total imports for July 2024 were estimated at USD 72.03 billion, showing a more substantial growth of 7.14% over the same period in the previous year.

Detailed Explanation:

India’s total exports (merchandise and services combined) for July 2024 were estimated at USD 62.42 billion, reflecting a growth of 2.81% compared to July 2023.

Imports: Total imports for July 2024 were estimated at USD 72.03 billion, showing a more substantial growth of 7.14% over the same period in the previous year.

Trade Deficit: The merchandise trade deficit for July 2024 was USD 23.50 billion.

Exports: Services exports for July 2024 were estimated at USD 28.43 billion, up from USD 26.22 billion in July 2023.

Imports: Services imports were estimated at USD 14.55 billion in July 2024, compared to USD 13.74 billion in July 2023.

Services Trade Surplus: The services trade surplus for July 2024 stood at USD 13.88 billion.

July 2024: Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports were USD 26.92 billion, while imports in this category were USD 38.98 billion.

Top Export Destinations (July 2024): Netherlands, USA, Tanzania, Singapore, and Mexico showed significant growth.

Top Import Sources (July 2024): UAE, China, Russia, Qatar, and Indonesia were the top sources of growth in imports.

14) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

President Droupadi Murmu approved 103 Gallantry awards for personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces.

This prestigious recognition includes a variety of honours for bravery and distinguished service.

Mention-in-Despatches:Thirty-nine recognitions, including a posthumous award to Army Dog Kent, for their exceptional contributions to military operations.

Detailed Explanation:

President Droupadi Murmu approved 103 Gallantry awards for personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces.

This prestigious recognition includes a variety of honours for bravery and distinguished service.

Kirti Chakras: Four awards, including three posthumous.

Shaurya Chakras: Eighteen awards, with four posthumous.

Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry): One award.

Sena Medals (Gallantry): Sixty-three awards, including two posthumous.

Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry): Eleven awards.

Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry): Six awards.

Mention-in-Despatches:Thirty-nine recognitions, including a posthumous award to Army Dog Kent, for their exceptional contributions to military operations.

15) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Standard Chartered Bank has announced the appointment of Aditya Mandloi as Head of Wealth and Retail Banking (WRB) for India and South Asia.

His appointment is effective from August 1, 2024.

Mandloi will be responsible for driving the WRB business across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

Detailed Explanation:

Standard Chartered Bank has announced the appointment of Aditya Mandloi as Head of Wealth and Retail Banking (WRB) for India and South Asia.

His appointment is effective from August 1, 2024.

Mandloi will be responsible for driving the WRB business across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

He has led the WRB business for Bangladesh.

Mandloi was also the Head of SME Banking in India, where he built a sustainable and profitable business.

Before his new appointment, Mandloi served as the Head of Business Banking India and the Global Head of Business Banking – Sales and Marketing from 2022 to 2024.

16) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Centre has appointed Govind Mohan, an Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer, as the next Union Home Secretary.

Mohan has been posted as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) and will take over from Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the Union Home Secretary when Bhalla completes his tenure on August 22, 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

The Centre has appointed Govind Mohan, an Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer, as the next Union Home Secretary.

Mohan, a Sikkim cadre officer of the 1989 batch, is currently serving as the Union Culture Secretary.

Mohan has been posted as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) and will take over from Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the Union Home Secretary when Bhalla completes his tenure on August 22, 2024.

Mohan’s appointment as Home Secretary is significant due to the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, ongoing turmoil near the Indo-Bangladesh border, and terror attacks in J&K.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Vinay Mohan Kwatra, former Foreign Secretary, has assumed charge as the Ambassador of India to the United States.

He succeeds Taranjit Singh Sandhu, India’s former envoy to the United States and a BJP leader.

Detailed Explanation:

Vinay Mohan Kwatra, former Foreign Secretary, has assumed charge as the Ambassador of India to the United States.

He succeeds Taranjit Singh Sandhu, India’s former envoy to the United States and a BJP leader.

On July 14, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar bid farewell to Kwatra, commending his significant contributions to India’s foreign policy and national security over the past decade.

Jaishankar praised Kwatra for his strategic expertise in shaping and implementing critical policies during his tenure.

Kwatra has previously served as Joint Secretary at the Ministry of External Affairs and the Prime Minister’s Office.

He held the position of Minister (Commerce) at the Embassy of India in Washington D.C. from May 2010 to July 2013.

18) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that he will not seek re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in next month’s party polls.

Detailed Explanation:

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that he will not seek re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in next month’s party polls.

This decision means Japan will also have a new prime minister.

Kishida had informed senior administration officials of his intention not to run, as reported by Japanese media, including national broadcaster NHK.

He was elected party president in September 2021 for a three-year term and won a general election shortly afterward.

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Centre has appointed Rahul Navin as the full-time Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for a two-year term, according to a government order.

He took charge as the acting director after the Supreme Court declared the repeated extensions of the previous ED Director, Sanjay Kumar Mishra, as illegal.

Detailed Explanation:

The Centre has appointed Rahul Navin as the full-time Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for a two-year term, according to a government order.

He took charge as the acting director after the Supreme Court declared the repeated extensions of the previous ED Director, Sanjay Kumar Mishra, as illegal.

During his tenure as acting director, Navin oversaw the high-profile arrests of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in separate money laundering cases.

The Supreme Court had criticized the Union government for granting repeated extensions to Sanjay Kumar Mishra, questioning if the entire department was “full of incompetent people” except for its incumbent chief.

The Enforcement Directorate investigates financial crimes under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA).

Additionally, the ED enforces the civil provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ commenced on August 12, 2024, at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka.

The exercise will continue until August 25, 2024.

The last edition of ‘Mitra Shakti’ was conducted in Pune, India, in November 2023.

Detailed Explanation:

The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ commenced on August 12, 2024, at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka.

The exercise will continue until August 25, 2024.

The last edition of ‘Mitra Shakti’ was conducted in Pune, India, in November 2023.

The aim of ‘Mitra Shakti 2024’ is to enhance the joint military capability of both India and Sri Lanka to undertake counter-insurgency operations in a sub-conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate.

The exercise focuses on operations in a semi-urban environment, improving interoperability, and sharing best practices between the two nations.

The Indian contingent, consisting of 106 personnel, is represented by a Battalion of Rajputana Rifles, along with personnel from other arms and services.

The Sri Lankan contingent is represented by personnel from the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lankan Army.

21) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

In the latest ICC ODI rankings, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has moved up to second place among batters following his impressive performance in the recent series against Sri Lanka.

Detailed Explanation:

In the latest ICC ODI rankings, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has moved up to second place among batters following his impressive performance in the recent series against Sri Lanka.

Batting Rankings:

Rohit Sharma: 2nd place with 765 rating points.

Shubman Gill: 3rd place (dropped one spot).

Virat Kohli: 4th place (unchanged)..

Bowling Rankings:

Kuldeep Yadav: 4th place (highest-ranked Indian bowler).

Jasprit Bumrah: 8th place (unchanged).

Mohammed Siraj: 9th place (dropped five spots, tied with Trent Boult).

All-Rounders Rankings:

Ravindra Jadeja: 16th place (highest-placed Indian all-rounder).

Hardik Pandya: 26th place (dropped four spots).

Team Rankings:

India: 1st place with 118 rating points.

Australia: 2nd place with 116 rating points.

South Africa: 3rd place with 112 rating points.

22) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Former Indian all-rounder Dodda Ganesh has been appointed the head coach of Kenya’s men’s cricket team.

2026 T20 World Cup: The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, providing an opportunity for Kenya to reestablish its presence in international cricket.

Detailed Explanation:

Former Indian all-rounder Dodda Ganesh has been appointed the head coach of Kenya’s men’s cricket team.

Kenya’s Cricket History:

World Cup Participation: Kenya competed in five World Cups between 1996 and 2011.

Best Performance: Reached the semifinals in the 2003 World Cup under Indian coach Sandeep Patil.

Challenges Ahead:

Current Status: Kenya has qualified for only one T20 World Cup, which was in 2007.

Upcoming Competitions: Kenya will compete in the ICC Division 2 Challenge League in September and the T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers in October.

Future Goals:

2026 T20 World Cup: The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, providing an opportunity for Kenya to reestablish its presence in international cricket.

23) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Zeeshan Ali announced his resignation as the coach of the Indian Davis Cup team, a month before the team’s upcoming match against Sweden in Stockholm.

Tenure:He served as the team’s coach for 11 years, beginning his tenure in 2013.

Detailed Explanation:

Zeeshan Ali announced his resignation as the coach of the Indian Davis Cup team, a month before the team’s upcoming match against Sweden in Stockholm.

Tenure:He served as the team’s coach for 11 years, beginning his tenure in 2013.

Roles: Ali has been both coach and captain of the Davis Cup team, a rare achievement in international tennis.

Historic Achievement: He captained the team in a significant tie against Pakistan earlier this year.

Opponent: India will face Sweden in Stockholm on September 14-15.

24) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

PR Sreejesh has retired from professional hockey after winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics.

Sreejesh has been appointed as the coach of the Indian Junior Hockey team.

Hockey India celebrated Sreejesh’s contributions with a trophy and a cash prize of INR 25 Lakhs.

Detailed Explanation:

PR Sreejesh has retired from professional hockey after winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics.

His jersey number 16 will be retired at the senior level by Hockey India as a tribute to his contributions.

Sreejesh has been appointed as the coach of the Indian Junior Hockey team.

The number 16 jersey will remain active in junior hockey to inspire future players under Sreejesh’s coaching.

Sreejesh, known as “The Great Indian Wall of Indian Hockey,” has been a cornerstone of the national team for nearly two decades.

He made his debut for the junior national team in 2004 and for the senior team in 2006.

Sreejesh was part of the 2008 Junior Asia Cup-winning team and won the ‘Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament’ award.

Four Olympic Games (2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024).

Four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, and 2023).

Three Asian Games (2014, 2018, and 2022).

Three Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, and 2022).

Hockey India celebrated Sreejesh’s contributions with a trophy and a cash prize of INR 25 Lakhs.

Head Coach Craig Fulton praised Sreejesh’s dedication and influence on the team.

25) Answer: A

About Madhya Pradesh:

Capital: Bhopal

Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel

Chief Minister: Mohan Yadav

National Park: Kanha National Park, Madhav National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Pench National Park, Van Vihar National Park, Satpura National Park, Panna National Park, Kuno National Park

This post was last modified on August 16, 2024 5:48 pm

3 months ago

Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 16th August 2024

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