Daily Current Affairs Quiz – 17th July 2024

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Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 17th July 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) According to the government’s report, non-performing assets (NPAs) have been around what percentage under the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)?

(a) 4%

(b) 5%

(c) 6%

(d) 7%

(e) 8%

2) As per the report, the Lenders must abide by new guidelines established by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) before classifying loan accounts as fraudulent.How many days must be allowed to borrowers to reply to the Show-Cause Notice (SCN)?

(a) 15days

(b) 18days

(c) 21days

(d) 25days

(e) 30days

3) In response to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) report on the rising credit demand, Bank of Baroda and Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) have implemented special deposit plans. Which bank plans to provide a 444-day special monsoon retail deposit plan with a 7.25% interest rate?

(a) Canara bank

(b) State bank of India

(c) Indian bank

(d) Axis bank

(e) HDFC bank

4) How many basis points (bps) did Bank of Baroda (BoB) boost its marginal cost of funds-based lending rates (MCLR) on certain tenors?

(a) 5bps

(b) 10bps

(c) 15bps

(d) 20bps

(e) 25bps

5) In July 2024, an ‘One Scientist-One Product,’ a new project by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), is about to be introduced. In addition to it, how many new crop types across 56 crops will ICAR announce the release?

(a) 321

(b) 322

(c) 323

(d) 324

(e) 325

6) The Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation will take place in New Delhi, India, on September 11 and 12, 2024. How many nations, including China and Pakistan, will be represented at the conference to discuss and influence the future of civil aviation in the Asia Pacific region?

(a) 38

(b) 37

(c) 40

(d) 42

(e) 39

7) Which city hosted the groundbreaking ceremony for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project, presided over by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

(a) Pune

(b) Mumbai

(c) Kolkata

(d) Patna

(e) Ranchi

8) How many nations are members of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic collaboration (BIMSTEC) grouping that India has called upon to increase collaboration amongst them by bringing in additional resources, energy, and commitment?

(a) 5

(b) 6

(c) 7

(d) 8

(e) 9

9) A new Act intended to stop illicit land-grabbing will be introduced by the Andhra Pradesh (AP) government, headed by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. What is the total unlawful financial gain over the previous five years that was highlighted in the white paper?

(a) Rs.9,750 crore

(b) Rs.10,750 crore

(c) Rs.11,750 crore

(d) Rs.9,650 crore

(e) Rs.9,550 crore

10) In June 2024, India’s inflation based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) increased for the fourth consecutive month, hitting a 16-month high of what percentage, up from 2.61 percent in May 2024?

(a) 3.32%

(b) 3.34%

(c) 3.35%

(d) 3.36%

(e) 3.38%

11) As per July’24 report, an AMD and SINE, the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, have established a relationship at which IIT?

(a) IIT Madras

(b) IIT Bombay

(c) IIT Mandi

(d) IIT Delhi

(e) IIT Khargpur

12) The Machhakata coal mine in the Angul district of Odisha has been formally taken over by NLC India. This is a calculated move that may potentially increase the company’s output of coal and lignite. How much crore is planned for the coal mine’s development?

(a) Rs.11000crore

(b) Rs.10000crore

(c) Rs.12000crore

(d) Rs.13000crore

(e) Rs.15000crore

13) According to recent high-level conversations, India is concentrating on removing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and improving market access to accomplish a key bilateral trade objective with which nation?

(a) China

(b) Russia

(c) USA

(d) Japan

(e) France

14) As part of the e-FAST India program, NITI Aayog has announced the start of the NITI GearShift Challenge in partnership with IIM Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India. Which year was NITI Aayog founded?

(a) 2012

(b) 2014

(c) 2015

(d) 2016

(e) 2010

15) Which ministry had introduced the Skill India Digital (SID) platform, a major step forward for India’s skill development strategy?

(a) Education ministry

(b) Agriculture ministry

(c) Home Affairs

(d) Health & Family welfare

(e) Skill development minister

16) Which country’s national security specialist and seasoned diplomat Vikram Misri took over as India’s 35th Foreign Secretary?

(a) China

(b) Nepal

(c) Spain

(d) Myanmmar

(e) Bhutan

17) Which state’s administration has restored senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Rajeev Kumar as the Director General of Police (DGP)?

(a) West Bengal

(b) Gujarat

(c) Sikkim

(d) Jammu & Kashmir

(e) Haryana

18) An open-source technology developed by Indian scientists is intended to provide an infrared star catalogue for the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT)’s Adaptive Optics System (AOS). How many nations are involved in this massive worldwide effort that intends to dramatically expand our understanding of the universe?

(a) 4

(b) 5

(c) 6

(d) 7

(e) 8

19) Which state/UT’s Sakthikulangara fishing harbor located where scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have found a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, called Squalus hima?

(a) West Bengal

(b) Gujarat

(c) Kerala

(d) Jammu & Kashmir

(e) Odisha

20) For the first time in how many years, five American tennis players are placed in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Top 15 according to the United States Tennis Association (USTA)?

(a) 10years

(b) 12years

(c) 15years

(d) 20years

(e) 25years

21) Which state is home to Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary?

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) Gujarat

(c) Sikkim

(d) Telangana

(e) Karnataka

22) Which nation hosted the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Cup, where Sabeera Haris of India won the bronze medal in the women’s trap event?

(a) Spain

(b) Italy

(c) France

(d) Thailand

(e) Singapore

23) Which year did the Assembly of State Parties decide to observe July 17th as World Day for International Justice in honor of the adoption of the Rome Statute?

(a) 2008

(b) 2009

(c) 2005

(d) 2010

(e) 2011

24) Which state is now led by C V Anantha Bose as governor?

(a) West Bengal

(b) Gujarat

(c) Sikkim

(d) Jammu & Kashmir

(e) Haryana

25) The BIMSTEC is a regional organization established in 1997 to foster economic and technological cooperation among nations surrounding the Bay of Bengal. Since 2022, which country has held the BIMSTEC chairmanship?

(a) Spain

(b) Italy

(c) France

(d) Thailand

(e) Singapore

Answers :

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• As per the government’s report, the Non-performing assets (NPA)have been around 6% under the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS).
• Loan Amount: The total liquidity support provided under ECLGS is over ₹3.68 lakh crore.
• Bad Debts: NPAs reported under ECLGS amount to approximately ₹22,000 crore, which is 6% of the guaranteed loans.

Detailed Explanation:

• As per the government’s report, the Non-performing assets (NPA)have been around 6% under the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS).
• Loan Amount: The total liquidity support provided under ECLGS is over ₹3.68 lakh crore.
• Bad Debts: NPAs reported under ECLGS amount to approximately ₹22,000 crore, which is 6% of the guaranteed loans.
• NPA Definition: The definition of NPA under ECLGS aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) definition.
• Cost of Guarantee: The cost to provide a full guarantee under ECLGS will be much less than anticipated due to the lower percentage of NPAs.
• Comparison with System Data: According to the latest Financial Stability Report by RBI, the gross non-performing assets (GNPA) ratio for scheduled commercial banks fell to a multi-year low of 2.8% at the end of March 2024.
• The net non-performing assets (NNPA) ratio for scheduled commercial banks fell to 0.6% at the end of March 2024.
• For non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), the GNPA ratio was 4% at the end of March 2024.

2) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has developed new standards for lenders to follow before categorising loan accounts as fraudulent.
• The guidelines follow a Supreme Court judgement dated March 27, 2023, which mandates that borrowers must be given a hearing before their accounts are classified as fraud.
• Response Time: Borrowers must be given at least 21 days to respond to the SCN.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has developed new standards for lenders to follow before categorising loan accounts as fraudulent.
• The guidelines follow a Supreme Court judgement dated March 27, 2023, which mandates that borrowers must be given a hearing before their accounts are classified as fraud.
• Detailed Show-Cause Notice (SCN) : The RBI has updated its master direction on “Fraud Risk Management”, in which it has been mandated that lenders have to issue a detailed show-cause notice (SCN) to persons, entities, and promoters/whole-time and executive directors against whom there are allegations of fraud.
• Response Time: Borrowers must be given at least 21 days to respond to the SCN.
• Scope of Applicability: The master direction applies to commercial banks; upper-, middle-, and base-layer non-banking financial companies; all India financial institutions; and cooperative banks.
• Special Committee:A special committee of the board, known as the Special Committee for Monitoring and Follow-up of Fraud Cases (SCBMF), must be constituted.
• The SCBMF should consist of at least three board members, including a whole-time director and two independent/non-executive directors.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Bank of Baroda (BoB)and Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) have introduced special deposit schemes to address the increasing credit demand highlighted by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das.
• These schemes are aimed at bridging the gap between deposit and credit growth in the banking sector.
• SBI is set to launch a 444-day monsoon special retail deposit scheme with an interest rate of 7.25%.

Detailed Explanation:

• Bank of Baroda (BoB)and Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) have introduced special deposit schemes to address the increasing credit demand highlighted by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das.
• These schemes are aimed at bridging the gap between deposit and credit growth in the banking sector.

Bank of Baroda (BoB) Scheme:

• Scheme Name: “Bob Monsoon Dhamaka Deposit Scheme.“
• Tenor Buckets:
• 399 days at an interest rate of 7.25% per annum.
• 333 days at an interest rate of 7.15% per annum.

Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) Scheme:

• Tenor Buckets:
• 200 days at 6.90% interest.
• 400 days at 7.10% interest.
• 666 days at 7.15% interest.
• 777 days at 7.25% interest.
• Eligibility: Deposits up to ₹10 crore.

SBI’s New Scheme:

• SBI is set to launch a 444-day monsoon special retail deposit scheme with an interest rate of 7.25%.
• Deposit growth declined to 10.6% Y-o-Y as of the latest reporting fortnight.
• Loan growth was 13.9% till June 28, 2024.

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) increasedits marginal cost of funds based lending rates (MCLR) by 5 basis points (bps) on select tenors.

Revised Rates :

• One-year MCLR increased to 8.9% from 8.85%.
• Overnight MCLR increased to 8.15% from 8.10%.
• Six-month MCLR increased to 8.7% from 8.65%.
• UCO Bank MCLR Increase:Another state-run lender, UCO Bank, increased its overnight MCLR by 5 bps from 8.10% to 8.15%.

Detailed Explanation:

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) increasedits marginal cost of funds based lending rates (MCLR) by 5 basis points (bps) on select tenors.

Revised Rates :

• One-year MCLR increased to 8.9% from 8.85%.
• Overnight MCLR increased to 8.15% from 8.10%.
• Six-month MCLR increased to 8.7% from 8.65%.
• UCO Bank MCLR Increase:Another state-run lender, UCO Bank, increased its overnight MCLR by 5 bps from 8.10% to 8.15%.
• Timing of Increases:These MCLR increases come days before the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) next monetary policy meeting, scheduled from August 6 to 8, 2024.
• MCLR is reviewed monthly by banks on a pre-announced date with board approval.
• EBLR Introduction:In October 2019, the RBI introduced the external benchmark-based lending rate (EBLR), linked to the repo rate.
• All retail loans and floating-rate loans to MSMEs are now linked to EBLR.
• Loan Distribution:As of March 2024, EBLR-linked loans constituted 57.5% of the total outstanding floating rate rupee loans of banks.

5) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is set to launch its new initiative, ‘One Scientist-One Product’.
• Inauguration ByUnion Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan

The objective of the Programme:

• Focus: Improve research in agriculture and animal husbandry.
• Structure: Each scientist will focus on a single product to drive in-depth research and development.

Release of New Crop Varieties

In addition to the programme launch, ICAR will also announce the release of 323 new crop varieties across 56 crops.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is set to launch its new initiative, ‘One Scientist-One Product’.
• Inauguration ByUnion Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan

The objective of the Programme:

• Focus: Improve research in agriculture and animal husbandry.
• Structure: Each scientist will focus on a single product to drive in-depth research and development.

Release of New Crop Varieties

In addition to the programme launch, ICAR will also announce the release of 323 new crop varieties across 56 crops.

Details of the New Varieties:

• Total Varieties: 323
• Crops: Includes cereals, oilseeds, forage crops, and sugarcane.
• Categories:
  • Climate-Resilient Varieties: 289
  • Bio-Fortified Varieties: 27

Key Highlights of the 96th Foundation Day of ICAR

• Event: Formal release of new crop varieties.
• Focus: Celebration of 96 years of ICAR’s contributions to Indian agriculture.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• India will hostthe Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation on September 11-12, 2024, in New Delhi.
• The conference will bring together representatives from around 40 countries, including China and Pakistan, to discuss and shape the future of civil aviation in the Asia Pacific region.
• Organizers:Indian Government and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) APAC.

Detailed Explanation:

• India will hostthe Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation on September 11-12, 2024, in New Delhi.
• The conference will bring together representatives from around 40 countries, including China and Pakistan, to discuss and shape the future of civil aviation in the Asia Pacific region.
• Participants:Representatives from 40 countries.
• Organizers:Indian Government and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) APAC.

First Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation

• Year:2018
• Location:Beijing, China
• Key Fact:The first conference set the stage for regional cooperation in aviation.

India’s Aviation Sector Growth

India’s aviation sector has seen remarkable growth, reflecting its position as a global aviation leader.

Key Statistics:

• Aircraft Increase:From 400 to more than 800 in the last decade.
• Airports Growth:From 74 to 157 in the last decade.
• Current Status:India is the third largest domestic aviation market globally after the U.S. and China.

7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modiled the groundbreaking ceremony for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project in Mumbai.

Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel

• Cost: ₹16,600 crore
• Length: 11.8 km
• Type: Urban Tunnel
• Expected Completion: [TBD]

Detailed Explanation:

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modiled the groundbreaking ceremony for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project in Mumbai.

Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel

• Cost: ₹16,600 crore
• Length: 11.8 km
• Type: Urban Tunnel
• Expected Completion: [TBD]

Environmental Impact

• Carbon Emission Reduction:
  • Reduction: 150,000 MT of carbon pollution annually.
  • Sustainability: Environmentally friendly construction practices to protect nearby Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Construction

• Tunnel-Boring Machine: India’s longest and most advanced machine, capable of boring up to 10.25 km of tunnel.
• Safety Measures:
  • Cross Passages: Every 300 meters for maintenance and safety.
  • Environmental Considerations: Careful planning to ensure minimal impact on natural surroundings.

8) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• India has called on the 7-nation Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic
  Cooperation (BIMSTEC) grouping to infuse new energies, resources, and a fresh commitment to bolster cooperation among the Bay of Bengal countries.
• Jaishankar highlighted that BIMSTEC aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, ‘Act East Policy,’ and ‘SAGAR’ vision, which focuses on the Bay of Bengal region.
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi on 11-12 July 2024.

The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Bangkok, Thailand on 17 July 2023.

Detailed Explanation:

• India has called on the 7-nation Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) grouping to infuse new energies, resources, and a fresh commitment to bolster cooperation among the Bay of Bengal countries.
• This call was made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during a two-day retreat with his counterparts from the seven BIMSTEC nations: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan.
• Jaishankar highlighted that BIMSTEC aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, ‘Act East Policy,’ and ‘SAGAR’ vision, which focuses on the Bay of Bengal region.
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi on 11-12 July 2024.
• The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Bangkok, Thailand on 17 July 2023.

9) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• The Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, will introduce a new Act aimed at preventing illegal land-grabbing.
• This legislation will be modelled on the Gujarat Act.
• White Paper Presentation: Naidu presented a white paper detailing the state of natural resources and their misuse during the YSRCP rule.
• Financial Irregularities: The white paper highlighted illegal financial gains amounting to ₹9,750 crore over the last 5 years.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, will introduce a new Act aimed at preventing illegal land-grabbing.
• This legislation will be modelled on the Gujarat Act.
• White Paper Presentation: Naidu presented a white paper detailing the state of natural resources and their misuse during the YSRCP rule.
• Financial Irregularities: The white paper highlighted illegal financial gains amounting to ₹9,750 crore over the last 5 years.
• Illegal Land Transfers: It was reported that 13,800 acres of private land were illegally transferred to YSR Congress Party leaders in Visakhapatnam, Ongole, and Chittoor.
• Corruption in YSRCP Era: The previous YSR Congress regime was accused of facilitating land grabbing and other irregularities in resource management.

10) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• India’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflationclimbed for the fourth consecutive month in June 2024, reaching a 16-month high of 3.36 per cent compared to 2.61 per cent in May 2024.
• Overall Inflation:WPI inflation rose to 3.36 per cent in June 2024 from -4.18 percent in June 2023.

Detailed Explanation:

• India’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflationclimbed for the fourth consecutive month in June 2024, reaching a 16-month high of 3.36 per cent compared to 2.61 per cent in May 2024.
• Overall Inflation:WPI inflation rose to 3.36 per cent in June 2024 from -4.18 percent in June 2023.
• Food Prices:Food inflation surged to 10.87 per cent during the month.
• Price Increases in Specific Categories:
  • Vegetables:76 percent increase.
  • Onion:35 percent increase.
  • Potato:37 percent increase.
  • Cereals:27 percent increase.
  • Fruits:14 percent increase.
  • Wheat:25 percent increase.
• Moderating Prices:
  • Pulses:While prices decelerated to 21.64 percent, they remained high.
  • Protein-Rich Items:Eggs & meat (-3.06 percent) and milk (3.37 percent) saw slight relief.

11) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• AMDhas announced a partnership with the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE) at IIT Bombay.
• The collaboration aims to provide grants to startups incubated at IIT Bombay, focusing on developing energy-efficient Spiking Neural Network (SNN) chips.
• Numelo Technologies has received the first grant to develop SNN chips using ultralow power quantum tunnelling on silicon on insulator (SOI) technology.

Detailed Explanation:

• AMDhas announced a partnership with the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE) at IIT Bombay.
• The collaboration aims to provide grants to startups incubated at IIT Bombay, focusing on developing energy-efficient Spiking Neural Network (SNN) chips.
• Numelo Technologies has received the first grant to develop SNN chips using ultralow power quantum tunnelling on silicon on insulator (SOI) technology.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Continued focus on improving the energy efficiency of computing devices, which is critical for the advancement of AI and HPC.
• Innovation in Quantum Tunneling Technology: Numelo Technologies’ project will contribute to the cutting-edge field of ultralow power computing.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• NLC Indiahas officially taken over the Machhakata coal mine in the Angul district of Odisha, a strategic move set to potentially double the company’s coal and lignite production and 12,000 crore planned for the development of the coal mine.
• The development was formalized with the signing of a Coal Mine Development and Production Agreement with the Ministry of Coal.

Detailed Explanation:

• NLC Indiahas officially taken over the Machhakata coal mine in the Angul district of Odisha, a strategic move set to potentially double the company’s coal and lignite production and 12,000 crore planned for the development of the coal mine.
• The development was formalized with the signing of a Coal Mine Development and Production Agreement with the Ministry of Coal.
• Agreement Signed:Coal Mine Development and Production Agreement with the Ministry of Coal.
• Mine Location:Angul District, Odisha.
• Investment:₹12,000 crore planned for the development of the coal mine.
• Production Commencement:Expected to start in 2030.
• Auction Round:Won in the 8th round of coal mine auctions conducted by the Ministry of Coal.
• Production Potential:The mine is expected to yield 30 million tonnes of coal annually.

Impact on NLC India

• Current Production:NLC India’s total coal and lignite production was 36.32 million tonnes in the previous year.
• Stock Market Reaction:The company’s share price touched ₹302.60 before closing at an all-time high of ₹297.75, reflecting investor optimism. The stock’s valuation is currently 21 times its earnings and 2.42 times its book value.

13) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• India is focused on addressing non-tariff barriers(NTBs) and enhancing market access to achieve a significant bilateral trade target with Russia, as outlined in recent high-level discussions.

Bilateral Trade Target:

• Goal: Achieve $100 billion in annual trade with Russia by 2030.
• Current Trade Volume: Approximately $65 billion in 2023-24.
• Focus: Increase Indian exports and address trade imbalances.

Detailed Explanation:

• India is focused on addressing non-tariff barriers(NTBs) and enhancing market access to achieve a significant bilateral trade target with Russia, as outlined in recent high-level discussions.

Bilateral Trade Target:

• Goal: Achieve $100 billion in annual trade with Russia by 2030.
• Current Trade Volume: Approximately $65 billion in 2023-24.
• Focus: Increase Indian exports and address trade imbalances.

Trade Imbalance:

• Issue: India’s exports to Russia amounted to around $4 billion in 2023-24, while imports were about $61 billion.
• Strategy: Reduce the trade deficit by boosting Indian exports.
• Participants: Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan (Eurasian Economic Union).
• Current Status: Working on finalizing the terms of reference for the FTA.

Current Trade Dynamics

• Imports from Russia:
  • Primary Commodity: Discounted crude oil.
  • Impact: Major contributor to the $61 billion import figure.
• Exports to Russia:
  • Current Value: Approximately $4 billion.
  • Focus: Increase this figure through NTB resolution and market expansion.

Economic Context

• Western Sanctions:
  • Impact: Created a gap in the Russian market for Indian products.
  • Response: India aims to fill this gap through strategic exports.
• Commerce Secretary’s Statement:
  • Objective: Explore opportunities due to sanctions and enhance trade through the rupee-rouble mechanism.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• NITI Aayog, in collaboration with IIM Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India, has announced the launch of the NITI GearShift Challenge as part of the e-FAST India
• NITI Aayog: Established in 2015, NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India. It provides strategic and technical advice to the central and state governments on various development issues.

Detailed Explanation:

• NITI Aayog, in collaboration with IIM Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India, has announced the launch of the NITI GearShift Challenge as part of the e-FAST India
• Foster Innovation: Encourage the development of new business models for zero-emission trucks.
• Address Challenges: Tackle financial, technical, and operational barriers to the adoption of electric trucks.
• Promote Sustainability: Support the transition to zero-emission freight solutions to reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality.
• Diesel Consumption: Road freight accounts for 55% of India’s annual diesel consumption.
• CO2 Emissions: The sector contributes nearly 40% of CO2 emissions from road transport.
• NITI Aayog: Established in 2015, NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the premier policy think tank of the Government of India. It provides strategic and technical advice to the central and state governments on various development issues.
• e-FAST India: An initiative aimed at promoting electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions in India.
• Smart Freight Centre India: A non-profit organization focused on improving the efficiency and sustainability of freight transportation.
• CALSTART/Drive to Zero: An initiative dedicated to advancing zero-emission transportation technologies.
• WRI India: A research organization working on sustainable development solutions.

15) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhanlaunched the Skill India Digital (SID) platform, marking a significant advancement in India’s approach to skill development, education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Date of Launch: September 13, 2024
Union Minister: Dharmendra Pradhan
Objective: Enhance access to quality skill development, relevant opportunities, and entrepreneurial support for every Indian.

Detailed Explanation:

• Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhanlaunched the Skill India Digital (SID) platform, marking a significant advancement in India’s approach to skill development, education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Date of Launch: September 13, 2024
Union Minister: Dharmendra Pradhan
Objective: Enhance access to quality skill development, relevant opportunities, and entrepreneurial support for every Indian.

• Unified Platform: Consolidates various skill development programs from Central and State governments and multiple departments.
• Industry Collaboration: Partners with leading organizations to drive digital skilling and foster industry participation.
• Global Vision: Aligns with India’s G20 Presidency vision for global digital public infrastructure and addressing skills gaps.

16) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Vikram Misri, a seasoned diplomat and expert on China and national security, assumed charge as India’s 35th Foreign Secretary.
• He succeeded Vinay Kwatra
• Misri was serving as the Deputy National Security Advisor before his appointment

Detailed Explanation:

• Vikram Misri, a seasoned diplomat and expert on China and national security, assumed charge as India’s 35th Foreign Secretary.
• He succeeded Vinay Kwatra
• Misri was serving as the Deputy National Security Advisor before his appointment
• His term as Foreign Secretary will last for two years, ending in July 2026.
• Born in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, in 1964.

Ambassadorial Roles:

• Appointed as India’s Ambassador to Spain in 2014.
• Served as Ambassador to Myanmar in 2016.
• Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China from January 2019 to December 2021.

17) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Rajeev Kumar has been reinstated as the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal by the state government.
• Rajeev Kumar replaces Sanjoy Mukherjee, who was appointed as DGP by the Election Commission of India during the Lok Sabha polls.

Detailed Explanation:

• Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Rajeev Kumar has been reinstated as the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal by the state government.
• Rajeev Kumar replaces Sanjoy Mukherjee, who was appointed as DGP by the Election Commission of India during the Lok Sabha polls.
• Before the Lok Sabha elections, Vivek Sahay was appointed DGP on March 18, replacing Rajeev Kumar, but within a day, Sanjoy Mukherjee was appointed as DGP.
• Kumar, a 1989 batch IPS officer, was previously named the state’s top police officer in December 2023.

18) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Indian scientists have created an open-source tool designed to generate an infrared star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics System (AOS) of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).
• The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a revolutionary class of extremely large telescopes that will enable us to explore deeper into space and observe cosmic objects with unparalleled sensitivity.
• This is an ambitious international project involving India, the United States, Canada, China, and Japan that aims to significantly advance our understanding of the universe.

Detailed Explanation:

• Indian scientists have created an open-source tool designed to generate an infrared star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics System (AOS) of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).
• The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a revolutionary class of extremely large telescopes that will enable us to explore deeper into space and observe cosmic objects with unparalleled sensitivity.
• This is an ambitious international project involving India, the United States, Canada, China, and Japan that aims to significantly advance our understanding of the universe.
• Study the early universe, the formation and evolution of the first galaxies and stars after the Big Bang.
• Instruments on TMT:The TMT will feature instruments such as the Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (IRIS) and the Wide-Field Optical Spectrograph (WFOS).
• India’s Contribution:Indian participation includes three key institutes: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru; Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune; and Aryabhatta Research Institute for Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital.

19) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, named Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala, along the Arabian Sea.
• Genus and Family:Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks, also known as spurdogs, belonging to the family Squalidae.
• They are characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
• Discovery Details:The discovery was made by a team led by Bineesh K. K., Scientist at the Marine Biology Regional Centre of ZSI.

Detailed Explanation:

• Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, named Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala, along the Arabian Sea.
• Genus and Family:Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks, also known as spurdogs, belonging to the family Squalidae.
• They are characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
• Discovery Details:The discovery was made by a team led by Bineesh K. K., Scientist at the Marine Biology Regional Centre of ZSI.
• The findings were published in the journal Records of the ZSI.
• Characteristics of Squalus hima:Belongs to the Squalus megalops group, characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without spots.
• Economic Importance:Sharks of the genus Squalus and Centrophorus are exploited for their liver oil, which contains high levels of squalene.

20) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• The United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced that five American players are ranked in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Top 15 for the first time in 20 years.
• Historical Milestone: This marks the first time in over 20 years that five American women have been ranked in the WTA Top 15.
• Rising Stars: The achievements of these players highlight the resurgence of American talent in women’s tennis.

Detailed Explanation:

• The United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced that five American players are ranked in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Top 15 for the first time in 20 years.

Top American Players

Historical Context

• The last time five American women were ranked in the WTA Top 15 was on May 24, 2004.
  • At that time, Lindsay Davenport was ranked 4th in the world.
• Coco Gauff: Ranked #2, showing exceptional form and consistency.
• Jessica Pegula: Currently #6, reflecting strong performance in the current season.
• Danielle Collins: Improved to #9, ending her season on a high note.
• Madison Keys: Holding steady at #14, a consistent presence in the top ranks.
• Emma Navarro: Reached a career-high ranking of #15 after notable success at Wimbledon.
• Historical Milestone: This marks the first time in over 20 years that five American women have been ranked in the WTA Top 15.
• Rising Stars: The achievements of these players highlight the resurgence of American talent in women’s tennis.

21) Answer: A

About Andhra Pradesh :

• Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
• Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
• National Park : Papikonda National Park, Rajiv Gandhi (Rameshwaram) National Park, Sri Venkateswara National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries : Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary, Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• India’s Sabeera Haris clinched the bronze medalin the women’s trap event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Cup held in Porpetto, Italy.
• Gold Medalist: Carey Garrison from the US won gold by shooting down 40 out of 50 targets.
• Silver Medalist: Sofia Gori from Italy earned silver with 39 hits out of 50 targets.
• Bronze Medalist: Sabeera Haris secured bronze with a score of 29 out of 40 targets in the final.
• Other Indian Competitors: Bhavya Tripathi finished 26th with a score of 102, while Rajkuwar Ingle was in 33rd place with 100 points.

Detailed Explanation:

• India’s Sabeera Haris clinched the bronze medalin the women’s trap event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Cup held in Porpetto, Italy.

Medal Winners

Indian Performances

Event Highlights

• Gold Medalist: Carey Garrison from the US won gold by shooting down 40 out of 50 targets.
• Silver Medalist: Sofia Gori from Italy earned silver with 39 hits out of 50 targets.
• Bronze Medalist: Sabeera Haris secured bronze with a score of 29 out of 40 targets in the final.
• Other Indian Competitors: Bhavya Tripathi finished 26th with a score of 102, while Rajkuwar Ingle was in 33rd place with 100 points.

23) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• World Day for International Justice2024 is celebrated and observed all over the world on July 17^th
• On June 1, 2010, The Assembly of State Partiesdecided to celebrate the day the Rome Statute was adopted as the World Day for International Justice.

Detailed Explanation:

• World Day for International Justice2024 is celebrated and observed all over the world on July 17^th
• Every year on July 17, the day of many names, also known as International Justice Day, World Day for International Justice, or Day of International Criminal Justice, is celebrated to acknowledge the system of international justice.
• On June 1, 2010, The Assembly of State Partiesdecided to celebrate the day the Rome Statute was adopted as the World Day for International Justice.

24) Answer: A

About West Bengal:

• Capital: Kolkata
• Chief Minister: Mamata Banerjee
• Governor: C V Anantha Bose
• National Parks: Neora Valley National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Jaldapara National Park, Gorumara National Park, Sunderbans National Park

25) Answer: D

About BIMSTEC :

• Chairmanship : Thailand (since March 2022)
• The BIMSTEC is a regional organization founded in 1997 to promote economic cooperation and technical collaboration among countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.
• The BIMSTEC region is home to more than 1.7 billion people which constitute around 23% of the global population.