Del_Current-Affairs-PDF---February-1-15-2023 (1)-1

Current Aﬀairs [PDF] - February 1-15, 2023
120 MCQs
These questions are sourced from GKToday’s Current Affairs 2023 Daily 20 MCQ Series in GKToday
Academy Android Application.
1. Which country issued a notice to Pakistan seeking modification of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty
(IWT)?
[A] USA
[B] India
[C] Russia
[D] China
Answer: India
India has issued a notice to Pakistan for modification of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960
following Islamabad's inflexibility on its implementation. The notice was sent through respective
commissioners for Indus waters. India and Pakistan signed the treaty in 1960 after nine years of
negotiations, with the World Bank being a signatory of the pact.
2. Which city hosted the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival 2023?
[A] Gandhinagar
[B] Mumbai
[C] Mysuru
[D] Kochi
Answer: Mumbai
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival began with a grand opening ceremony in
Mumbai. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh
Thakur and Minister of State Meenakshi Lekhi inaugurated the SCO Film Festival. The SCO Film Festival
organized to mark India’s Presidency at SCO and to showcase the diversity of films from the SCO region.
3. Road Transport and Highway Ministry announced to scrap all government vehicles older than how
many years?
[A] 10
[B] 15
[C] 20
[D] 25
Answer: 15
Union Road Transport and Highway Minister Nitin Gadkari announced from April 1, all government-
owned vehicles that are older than 15 years will be scrapped. As part of this, more than nine lakh
vehicles, owned by central and state governments, transport corporations and public sector
undertakings, and new vehicles with alternative fuels will replace them.
4. 'Nidhi Aapke Nikat' is an outreach programme of which institution?
[A] RBI
[B] IRDAI
[C] EPFO
[D] SEBI
Answer: EPFO
Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation, EPFO, launched a massive outreach programme in all the
districts through a revamped 'Nidhi Aapke Nikat' programme. The aim of this programme is to reach all
the districts on 27th of every month and strengthen the relationship between the organization and its
stakeholders.
5. When is the ‘International Customs Day 2023’ observed?
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[A] January 25
[B] January 26
[C] January 27
[D] January 30
Answer: January 26
India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) celebrates International Customs Day, 2023.
The theme for this year, as given by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) was “Nurturing the Next
Generation: Promoting a Culture of Knowledge-sharing and Professional Pride in Customs”.
6. Which airline introduced a new software for real-time reporting of in-flight incidents?
[A] IndiGo
[B] Air India
[C] Spice Jet
[D] Vistara
Answer: Air India
Tata group-owned Air India said it will use a UK-headquartered Ideagen's enterprise cloud software
application Coruson. The safety data software application will help enhance the safety management
system and facilitate real-time reporting of in-flight incidents.
7. Which Union Ministry is set to launch the virtual facility for e-adjudication of company law
violations?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[C] Ministry of External Affairs
[D] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: Ministry of Corporate Affairs
The Ministry of corporate affairs will roll out the facility for e-adjudication of company law violations
entirely in the virtual mode before the end of this financial year. The process of revamping the corporate
filing system will also be completed by end of March. The ministry is also setting up a new national
centre, the Centre for Processing Accelerated Corporate Exit, to act as a single window facility for
companies that wish to voluntarily exit from business.
8. Which company has launched the first Made-in-India helmet to meet Europe’s ECE 22.06 standard
[A] Vega
[B] Steelbird
[C] Studds
[D] Royal Enfield
Answer: Steelbird
Steelbird has launched a new helmet named Ignyte IGN-7 to meet ECE 22.06 European certification for
the first time. It is also the first helmet in India to receive triple homologation as it conforms to DOT
FMVSS Noy, 218 for US market and India’s BIS safety standards.
9. What is the theme of the ‘International Holocaust Remembrance Day’?
[A] 24 January
[B] 27 January
[C] 30 January
[D] 2 February
Answer: 27 January
On 27 January, the international community comes together to commemorate the International
Holocaust Remembrance Day. The theme of this year is "Home and Belonging", which highlights the
humanity of the Holocaust victims and survivors. This Day was chosen by the United Nations General
Assembly to mark the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp
in 1945.
10. Which country signed an agreement with the European Union to collaborate on responsible
advancements in Artificial Intelligence?
[A] United States
[B] United Kingdom
[C] Australia
[D] Germany
Answer: United States
The United States and the European Union have signed an agreement to collaborate on "responsible
advancements" in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The agreement aims to speed up and enhance the use of
artificial intelligence to improve agriculture, healthcare, emergency response, climate forecasting and
the electric grid.
11. What is the name of the ceremony which marks the end to the Republic Day celebrations?
[A] Beating Retreat Ceremony
[B] Martyrs’ Day Ceremony
[C] Presentation of Guard of Honour Ceremony
[D] Vijay Diwas Ceremony
Answer: Beating Retreat Ceremony
The Beating Retreat Ceremony held in Vijay Chowk, Delhi, marks the end to the four-day-long Republic
Day celebrations in India. It is also called ‘Beating the Retreat’. This year 29 Indian tunes were played by
the music bands of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the State Police and the Central Armed Police
Force (CAPF). Last year, an English hymn and a favourite of Mahatma Gandhi called Abide With Me was
dropped.
12. Mega International Container Transhipment Port (ICTP) is proposed to be constructed in which
state/UT?
[A] Andaman and Nicobar Islands
[B] Lakshadweep
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Sikkim
Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is working towards development of Mega International
Container Transhipment Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay of Great Nicobar Island of Andaman and Nicobar
Islands. The 41,000 crore international transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island aims to match with the
global top container transhipment terminals. Other projects include, Airport, Township and Power plant.
13. As per the latest ‘All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE)’, what is the trend of total
enrolment in higher education in 2019-20 compared to the previous survey?
[A] Increased
[B] Decreased
[C] Remained Same
[D] No Change
Answer: Increased
The Ministry of Education has recently released All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE)
2020-2021. The Ministry has been conducting AISHE since 2011, which collects detailed information on
parameters such as student enrolment, teacher’s data, infrastructural information, financial information.
The total enrolment in higher education has increased to nearly 4.14 crore in 2020-21 from 3.85 crore in
2019-20. The Female enrolment has increased to 2.01 crore and the Gross Enrolment Ratio increased to
27.3 from 25.6 in 2019-20.
14. As per the recent RBI study, which state received the highest GST compensation from the
centre?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Karnataka
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Maharashtra
According to a study by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Maharashtra, Karnataka and Gujarat received
the top GST compensation, during the five-year transition period from July 2017 to June 2022. Tamil
Nadu was the fourth highest compensation receiving State, which is followed by Punjab. At least 10
States may fall short of the expected 14% GST growth, says the study. Puducherry, Punjab, Delhi,
Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Uttarakhand are likely to be most affected by the end of the compensation
regime.
15. Who is the head of the Commission for the sub-categorisation of OBCs?
[A] Justice G. Rohini
[B] Justice DY Chandrachud
[C] Justice Uday Umesh Lalit
[D] Justice Sanjay Karol
Answer: Justice G. Rohini
The Justice G. Rohini-led commission for the sub-categorisation of other backward classes (OBCs) has
now been given another extension in its tenure by the President. This was announced by the Union
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. This is the 14th extension in tenure that the commission
has been given. The commission was formed in October 2017.
16. As per the ‘Annual Death Penalty Report, 2022’, which state accounted for the highest death row
inmate population?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Assam
[D] Nagaland
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
Indian courts in 2022 awarded a 165 death sentences, the highest in over two decades, according to the
Annual Death Penalty Report. It was published by Project 39A, an advocacy group with the National Law
University. Uttar Pradesh accounted for the highest death row inmate population (100), followed by
Gujarat (61) and Jharkhand (46).
17. Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership hosted India’s first Model G-20 Summit in which
state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Gujarat
[D] Sikkim
Answer: Maharashtra
India’s G-20 Sherpa Mr Amitabh Kant inaugurated India’s first Model G-20 Summit organised by
Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini’s Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership. The two-day Model G-20
Summit starting has been organised near Mumbai to take the idea of G-20 to the youth. Rambhau Mhalgi
Prabodhini, the parent organisation of IIDL is also the Secretariat of the G-20 Civil Society engagement
group - Civil-20.
18. Which Indian state/UT launched the ‘Ladli Bahina Scheme’?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Odisha
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently launched the Ladli Bahina Scheme, to
provide Rs 1,000 per month to women from financially poor background in the state. A sum of Rs 60,000
crore will be spent on this scheme in five years. The Ladli Bahina Scheme will benefit poor women from
lower and middle classes of all sections on the lines of the Ladli Lakshmi Scheme.
19. Which company has signed MoU to make Rolls-Royce marine engines?
[A] HAL
[B] GRSE
[C] BEML
[D] Mazagon Dock
Answer: GRSE
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
with Germany’s Rolls Royce Solutions for manufacturing high-quality marine diesel engines. Under the
agreement, GRSE and Rolls Royce Solutions will cooperate in the licence production and localisation of
the technologically advanced MTU S4000 governmental marine engines.
20. Which is the first district to register 10,000 new MSMEs?
[A] Coimbatore
[B] Ernakulam
[C] Lucknow
[D] Surat
Answer: Ernakulam
Ernakulam in Kerala has been named as the first district to achieve registration of 10,000 new MSMEs.
This will help boost the contribution of MSMEs by generating new jobs and diversifying India's GDP. The
availability of highly skilled Human Resources and the good industrial infrastructure are among the key
reasons for its excellent communication and networking systems.
21. A rare low-altitude basalt plateau in the Western Ghats has been discovered in which state?
[A] Goa
[B] Kerala
[C] Karnataka
[D] Maharashtra
Answer: Maharashtra
Scientists at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in Pune have found a rare low-altitude basalt plateau
in the Western Ghats. This new plateau found by ARI team in Thane, Maharashtra could hold clues to
how plant species globally survive climate change.
22. Which city is the host of the first G20 International Financial Architecture Working Group
meeting?
[A] Mysuru
[B] Chennai
[C] Chandigarh
[D] Guwahati
Answer: Chandigarh
The first G20 International Financial Architecture Working Group meeting under the G20 Indian
Presidency was hosted in Chandigarh. International Financial Architecture Working Group focuses on
strengthening the international financial architecture. It also aims to address multiple challenges faced
by vulnerable countries.
23. On January 30, India paid homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his which death
anniversary?
[A] 70
[B] 75
[C] 80
[D] 85
Answer: 75
Martyrs' Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, is observed in India on January 30 to commemorate the
assassination of Mahatma Gandhi The nation paid homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on
his 75th death anniversary. Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on this day in 1948.
24. Which Indian conglomerate is setting up endowment funding entities?
[A] Reliance Industries
[B] Tata Trusts
[C] Adani Group
[D] Aditya Birla Group
Answer: Tata Trusts
Tata Trusts are setting up endowment funding entities on the lines of the US-based Burroughs Wellcome
Fund. This is aimed at reducing dependence on dividend income earned from Tata Sons. The Burroughs
Wellcome Fund is an independent foundation dedicated to advance medical sciences by supporting
research.
25. Which neighbouring country of India recently hiked its prices of petrol and diesel by 35 rupees?
[A] Nepal
[B] Afghanistan
[C] Pakistan
[D] Nepal
Answer: Pakistan
In Pakistan, the federal government has announced an increase in prices of petrol and diesel by 35
rupees. With this, petrol has reached 249.80 rupees per litre, while diesel prices have been raised to
262.80 rupees per litre. The Kerosene oil and light diesel oil prices also hiked by 18 rupees per litre. Last
week, the Pakistani rupee lost close to 12 per cent of its value.
26. Which country won the Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023 in Bhubaneswar?
[A] France
[B] Australia
[C] Belgium
[D] Germany
Answer: Germany
Germany beat Belgium 5-4 in penalty shootout to win the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar.
Jean-Paul Danneberg, the German goalkeeper made three saves in the penalty shootout. Germany
became the fourth team to have won three or more hockey World Cup titles. Pakistan has won the title
four times and is the most successful team at the hockey World Cup. Earlier, the Netherlands beat
Australia 3-1 to claim the bronze medal.
27. ‘World Economic Outlook’ is the flagship publication of which institution?
[A] International Monetary Fund
[B] World Bank
[C] Asian Development Bank
[D] World Economic Forum
Answer: International Monetary Fund
According to the World Economic Outlook update released by the IMF, about 84 percent of countries are
expected to have lower headline (CPI) inflation in 2023 than in 2022. Inflation in India is expected to
come down from 6.8 percent in the current fiscal year to 5 percent the next fiscal, and then drop further
to 4 percent in 2024.
28. Which Department of the Finance Ministry prepares the Economic Survey?
[A] Department of Economic Affairs
[B] Department of Financial Services
[C] Department of Expenditure
[D] Department of Revenue
Answer: Department of Economic Affairs
The Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the guidance of the Chief
Economic Adviser (CEA) prepares the Economic Survey. The Chief Economic Adviser released the
Economic Survey for the current financial year (2022-23). The survey is always presented a day before
the presentation of the Union Budgets. Economic Survey is a detailed report of state of national
economy in the financial year.
29. Which country is the partner country for Telangana’s flagship event, BioAsia 2023?
[A] USA
[B] UK
[C] UAE
[D] Australia
Answer: UK
The United Kingdom will be the partner country for Telangana’s flagship pharma - biotech event, BioAsia
2023. With the theme of ‘Advancing for ONE: Shaping the next generation of humanized healthcare’,
BioAsia is set to be held in February 2023 in Hyderabad.
30. Which is the first Asian country to receive financing under Resilience and Sustainability Facility
(RSF) of the IMF?
[A] India
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Pakistan
[D] Nepal
Answer: Bangladesh
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board approved a total of USD 4.7 billion loan for
Bangladesh. It includes USD 3.3 billion under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund
Facility (EFF) and USD 1.4 billion under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Bangladesh is
the first country in Asia to receive financing under the RSF.
31. India launched the ‘Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies’ with which country?
[A] Australia
[B] France
[C] USA
[D] UK
Answer: USA
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval launched the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging
Technologies (iCET) laong with his American counterpart Jake Sullivan. In May 2022, US President Joe
Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced iCET to expand their strategic technology
partnership and defense industrial cooperation between the governments, businesses, and academic
institutions.
32. What is the sanctioned judicial strength of the Supreme Court of India?
[A] 25
[B] 28
[C] 30
[D] 34
Answer: 34
The five-member Supreme Court collegium led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud
recommended to the government two High Court Chief Justices for appointment as apex court judges.
The Supreme Court has seven vacancies now while it has a sanctioned judicial strength of 34. The
central government is expected to clear the names of three high court chief justices and two HC judges.
With this, the working strength of the Supreme Court will go up to 32. Currently, it is 27.
33. Hibbertopterus lamsdelli, which was discovered, belongs to which species?
[A] Scorpion
[B] Turtle
[C] Spider
[D] Snake
Answer: Scorpion
Hibbertopterus lamsdelli is a new species of Giant Sea Scorpion. It belongs to Hibbertopteridae, an
extinct group of aquatic arthropods in the Order Eurypterida. Eurypterids are better known as sea
scorpions. The species existed during the Kasimovian age, between 307 and 303 million years ago. Its
diet included small crustaceans, ostracodes, conchostracans, invertebrate larvae and gastropod eggs.
34. National Commission for Women was founded in which year?
[A] 1952
[B] 1975
[C] 1992
[D] 1998
Answer: 1992
The President of India Droupadi Murmu addressed the 31st Foundation Day of the National Commission
for Women in Delhi. The theme of the programme is ‘Sashakt Nari Sashakt Bharat’ aimed at
acknowledging and celebrating the stories of women who have excelled and paved their journey to leave
a mark. NCW was founded in January 1992 as a statutory body under the National Commission for
Women Act, 1990.
35. Which city is the host of the first G20 Energy Transition Working Group Meeting?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Chennai
[D] Amritsar
Answer: Bengaluru
The first G20 Energy Transition Working Group meeting under India’s Presidency will be held in
Bengaluru from February 5th to 7th. Technology gaps in energy transition, low-cost financing for energy
transition, energy security and diversified supply chain, industrial low carbon transition and fuel for
future are the priority areas of the Working group discussion.
36. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan said the State capital would be shifted to which
city?
[A] Kurnool
[B] Visakhapatnam
[C] Vijayawada
[D] Guntur
Answer: Visakhapatnam
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan said the State capital would be shifted to
Visakhapatnam. He was addressing the preparatory meeting for Global Investors Summit to be held in
Visakhapatnam. The State government had proposed three capitals, Visakhapatnam (Executive capital),
Amaravati (Legislative capital) and Kurnool (Judicial capital). Amaravati is the present capital of Andhra
Pradesh.
37. 'VAYAM RAKSHAMAH (We Protect) is the motto of which armed force?
[A] Indian Army
[B] Indian Navy
[C] Indian Air Force
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Answer: Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard celebrated its 47th anniversary of its distinguished service’ to the nation. Its
motto is ‘VAYAM RAKSHAMAH’ meaning ‘We Protect’. The Indian Coast Guard over these four and half
decades has been patrolling the country’s maritime border. It stands tall as the fourth largest Coast
Guard in the world.
38. What is the GST collection in India in January 2023?
[A] Rs 0.97 Lakh crore
[B] Rs 1.21 Lakh crore
[C] Rs 1.55 Lakh crore
[D] Rs 2.01 Lakh crore
Answer: Rs 1.55 Lakh crore
The GST collection in January surged to over ₹ 1.55 lakh crore, second highest-ever collection recorded.
This is for the third time, in the current financial year that the GST collection has crossed ₹ 1.50 lakh
crore mark. The highest collection so far is the ₹ 1.68 lakh crore gross mop-up reported in April 2022.
39. WAPCOS, an engineering consultancy and construction services firm under which Union
Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Rural Development
[B] Ministry of Jal Shakti
[C] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[D] Ministry of MSME
Answer: Ministry of Jal Shakti
WAPCOS is an engineering consultancy and construction services firm under the Jal Shakti Ministry. In
September 2022, it filed draft papers with market regulator SEBI for launching an IPO by selling 3.25
crore shares held by the Government. Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)
announced recently that the Government is targeting to launch the initial public offering (IPO) of IREDA,
and WAPCOS, in the next fiscal.
40. Which country’s Chief Justice is the chief guest of the 73rd foundation day of the Supreme Court
of India?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Singapore
[C] USA
[D] France
Answer: Singapore
Singapore Chief Justice Sunadresh Menon attends as chief guest of the 73 rd foundation day of the
Supreme Court of India. The Singapore chief justice delivered a lecture on the “Role of judiciary in a
changing world” as this year’s event was aired on social media platforms. On January 28, 1950, two
days after India became the Sovereign Democratic Republic, the Supreme Court of India was
established.
41. Which Indian armed force unveiled a revised doctrine to lay out its role in “no war, no peace
scenario” (NWNP)?
[A] Indian Army
[B] Indian Navy
[C] Indian Air Force
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Answer: Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) launched a revised doctrine in which it laid out the role of air power in the “no
war, no peace scenario” (NWNP) that India typically faces. The doctrine, which refers to air power as
aerospace power, highlighted the use of air power as part of a joint military strategy involving the two
other forces. The doctrine also emphasised that defensive and offensive counter-operations are linked.
42. Which neighbouring country of India marked its 75th independence anniversary on 4th February
2023?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Afghanistan
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Nepal
Answer: Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka marked its 75th independence anniversary on 4th February 2023. Several activists, Buddhists
and Christian clergy announced a boycott of the celebration in the capital. A group of activists began a
silent protest in the capital, condemning government's independence celebration and failure to ease the
economic burden. University students also attempted a protest march.
43. What is the disinvestment target of the Finance ministry for the year 2023-24?
[A] Rs 98000 crore
[B] Rs 82000 crore
[C] Rs 65000 crore
[D] Rs 51000 crore
Answer: Rs 51000 crore
For the next fiscal year 2023-24, the Union Budget has pegged disinvestment revenue at Rs 51,000 crore.
The government has also scaled down the disinvestment target for the current fiscal to Rs 50,000 crore,
from Rs 65,000 crore budgeted last year. The Government expects divestment processes initiated in the
current fiscal to be closed by the next fiscal year, including IDBI, Shipping Corporation of India and
NMDC Steel.
44. India agreed to establish a ‘Defence and Energy Bloc’ with which other countries, recently?
[A] USA, Israel
[B] France, UAE
[C] Germany, UAE
[D] Sri Lanka, UAE
Answer: France, UAE
The foreign ministers of France, India and the UAE have agreed to establish a formal trilateral
cooperation initiative. The ‘Defence and Energy Bloc’ aims to promote international stability and
prosperity, and expand their defence ties with a focus on the Rafale fighter jets.
45. ‘Doly Jahur and Ilias Kanchan’ who were seen in the news, are the eminent artists from which
country?
[A] India
[B] Pakistan
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Afghanistan
Answer: Bangladesh
Eminent artists Doly Jahur and Ilias Kanchan will be honoured with the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for
their contribution to the film Industry in Bangladesh. This was announced in the National Film Awards
2021 recently announced in the country. Lal Moroger Jhuti (Call of the Red Rooster) and Nona Joler
Kabbo (The Salt in our waters) will be jointly awarded in the Best Film Category.
46. The US Defence officials have shot down a surveillance balloon of which country?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Russia
[D] Afghanistan
Answer: China
After floating over the US for days, a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon has been shot down by the
US Defence officials. The balloon is said to have a payload the size of several buses. China’s foreign
ministry denied that the balloon was used for surveillance, and it said that it was a civilian airship used
for meteorological and other scientific research
47. As per the Union Budget 2023, what is the per capita income in India, as of date?
[A] Rs 4.15 lakh per annum
[B] Rs 3.75 lakh per annum
[C] Rs 2.55 lakh per annum
[D] Rs 1.97 lakh per annum
Answer: Rs 1.97 lakh per annum
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in her Budget speech that the per capita income in India
has more than doubled to ₹ 1.97 lakh over the past nine years. The EPFO membership has more than
doubled to 27 crore. She also announced that the government made cash transfer of ₹2.2 lakh crore
under the PM-KISAN scheme.
48. Which state/UT recently notified directions to charge groundwater extraction by industries and
other establishments?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Punjab
[C] Bihar
[D] West Bengal
Answer: Punjab
The state government of Punjab notify a policy to meter and charge groundwater extraction by industries
and other establishments. Anyone with an existing bore-well or digging afresh will have to take
permission from Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority (PWRDA). There will be
exemptions including farmers using water for agriculture purposes, places of worship, drinking and
domestic Water Supply Scheme of Government, among others.
49. Which state/UT Child Rights body launched its WhatsApp chatbot for more effective interaction?
[A] Odisha
[B] Telangana
[C] New Delhi
[D] Goa
Answer: New Delhi
The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) launched its WhatsApp chatbot for more
effective interaction. The chatbot will be used for complaint registration, searching information, and
tracking complaint status. It will be used by the commission for nudge-based awareness
communications to children, women, Anganwadi workers, etc.
50. The Union Budget announced a Mission to eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia by which year?
[A] 2025
[B] 2030
[C] 2035
[D] 2047
Answer: 2047
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said while presenting the Union Budget 2023-24 that the
Centre will work in mission mode to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047. This programme will include
awareness creation and universal screening of 7 crore people in 0 - 40 years age group in affected tribal
areas and counselling through collaboration of central ministries and state governments.
51. Which institution released the 'Prospects for children in the polycrisis' Report?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] World Bank
[C] UNICEF
[D] World Economic Forum
Answer: UNICEF
The UNICEF recently released the ‘Prospects for Children in the Polycrisis: A 2023 Global Outlook’,
report. It explains ‘polycrisis’ as multiple, simultaneous crises that are strongly interdependent. As per
the report some effects of the crises include higher food and energy prices leading to global hunger and
malnourishment, limited access to healthcare, slow recovery from learning losses etc.
52. Which Union Ministry released the ‘E-Waste (Management) Amendment Rules, 2023’?
[A] Ministry of Electronics and IT
[B] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[D] Ministry of Home Affairs
Answer: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), issued the E-Waste (Management)
Amendment Rules, 2023. It seeks to amend the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, by adding Cadmium
and lead in Solar panels, solar Photovoltaic panels among others. They will come into force from April
01, 2023.
53. What is the expansion of PVTG, with respect to Government schemes?
[A] particularly vulnerable tribal groups
[B] primarily vulnerable tribal groups
[C] particularly valuable tribal groups
[D] primarily valuable tribal groups
Answer: particularly vulnerable tribal groups
Finance Minister stated that the Pradhan Mantri PVTG Development Mission will be launched, to
improve socio-economic conditions of the particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs). Rs.15,000
crore will be made available to implement the Mission in the next three years under the Development
Action Plan for the Scheduled Tribes.
54. Scientists from which institution sequenced the draft genome of four native Indian cow breeds?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IISc Bengaluru
[C] IISER Bhopal
[D] NIV Pune
Answer: IISER Bhopal
Scientists from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, have sequenced the
draft genome of four native Indian cow breeds. For the first time, the genetic makeup of four native
Indian cow breeds — Kasaragod Dwarf, Kasaragod Kapila, Vechur, and Ongole has been unravelled.
55. India agreed to constitute task force to boost cooperation in semiconductor industry with which
country?
[A] USA
[B] Israel
[C] Australia
[D] Finland
Answer: USA
India and the USA have agreed to constitute task force to boost cooperation in semiconductor industry.
The task force will involve India’s Semiconductor Mission, India Electronics Semiconductor Association
and the US Semiconductor Industry Association. This was announced during the inaugural meeting of
the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET).
56. Which city is the host of the First G20 Sustainable Financial Working Group meeting?
[A] Mysuru
[B] Guwahati
[C] Shimla
[D] Puducherry
Answer: Guwahati
First G20 Sustainable Financial Working Group meeting was recently inaugurated in Guwahati, Assam.
Guest delegates visited several places of importance like Kaziranga National Park, Pobitora Wildlife
Sanctuary, Gorbhanga Reserve Forest, Brahmaputra’s River Island and Brahmaputra Heritage Centre.
57. What is the total budget outlay announced for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana?
[A] Rs 49000 crore
[B] Rs 59000 crore
[C] Rs 69000 crore
[D] Rs 79000 crore
Answer: Rs 79000 crore
In the Union Budget 2023, the Government enhanced the outlay for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana by 66
per cent to 79000 crore. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is an initiative by the Ministry of Housing and
Urban Affairs. The Finance Minister also proposed to use Permanent Account Number (PAN) card as a
common identifier for all digital systems of government agencies.
58. Which institution releases the ‘Digital Payments Index’?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Ministry of Finance
[C] RBI
[D] NPCI
Answer: RBI
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releases the Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) twice a year, to measure the
adoption of online transactions, digital payments across India. As per the recent data, the digital
payments registered a growth of 24.13% in a year through September 2022. RBI-DPI stood at 377.46 in
September 2022 against 349.30 in March 2022 and 304.06 in September 2021.
59. Which country has found the radioactive capsule that went missing in January?
[A] USA
[B] Australia
[C] Russia
[D] Ukraine
Answer: Australia
Authorities in Western Australia announced that they have found a tiny radioactive capsule which went
missing last month. The capsule was found when a vehicle equipped with specialist equipment detected
radiation. The object was lost while being transported along a 1,400 km route across the state. It
contains a small quantity of Caesium-137, which could cause skin damage, burns or radiation sickness.
60. Which Union Ministry along with the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment implements the
NAMASTE scheme?
[A] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[B] Ministry of Rural Development
[C] Ministry of MSME
[D] Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
NAMASTE is a Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) as a
joint initiative of the MoSJE and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). NAMASTE stands
for National Action Plan for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem). This year’s Union Budget has allotted
Rs 100 crore to the scheme. Finance Minister announced that the government is looking to enable 100%
mechanical de-sludging of septic tanks and sewers in all cities and towns.
61. Which state inaugurated the ‘MV Ganga Vihar floating restaurant’?
[A] Bihar
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] West Bengal
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Bihar
Bihar Deputy Chief minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav inaugurated the MV Ganga Vihar at NIT Ghat in
Bihar. The floating restaurant operated by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC).
The two-storied floating restaurant has a restaurant on the ground floor with a seating capacity of 48
people along with a VIP lounge and a private lounge on the top floor.
62. Which state/UT is the host of the ‘Surajkund International Crafts Mela’?
[A] Jammu and Kashmir
[B] Haryana
[C] Bihar
[D] Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: Haryana
The 36th Surajkund International Crafts Mela was inaugurated by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in
Faridabad, Haryana. For this year, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is the participating
international entity while eight northeast states, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura, are the theme states. The artists of these states will come together to
showcase their art, handicrafts, and cuisines on a single platform.
63. Which country’s Prime Minister has been named as the most popular leader in Global Leader
Approval survey?
[A] China
[B] Japan
[C] India
[D] Australia
Answer: India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi named as the world’s most popular leader with an approval rating
of 78 per cent. The Global Leader Approval survey, carried out by the USbased Morning Consult, featured
22 global leaders. PM Modi stood on top of the list with 78% approval rating. The second most popular
leader as per the survey is Andres Manual Lopez Obrador ( Mexico ), while Alain Berset (Switzerland )
stood third. US President Joe Biden came seventh while UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was placed 12th.
64. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recently found 1,200-year-old idols in Nalanda, in which
state?
[A] Bihar
[B] Gujarat
[C] Punjab
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: Bihar
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recently found 1,200-year-old idols in Nalanda in Bihar. They were
found from a waterbody close to the ancient Nalanda University during desilting of a pond. Nalanda
Mahavihara is a world heritage site about 88 km from this place. The idols were found during desilting
under Bihar government’s ‘Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali’ project launched to protect and conserve water and the
environment.
65. Which institution releases ‘Food Price Index’ which tracks the most globally traded food
commodities?
[A] World Bank
[B] FAO
[C] World Economic Forum
[D] NITI Aayog
Answer: FAO
The United Nations food agency, the Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) price index tracks the
most globally traded food commodities. As per the recent FAO Food Price Index (FFPI), World food
prices decline for 10th month as recorded in January- FAO Food Price Index (FFPI). The index averaged
131.2 points in January against 132.4 for December.
66. Which tech major has invested nearly USD 400 million in artificial intelligence start-up Anthropic
AI?
[A] Samsung
[B] Microsoft
[C] Meta
[D] Google
Answer: Google
Google has invested nearly USD 400 million in artificial intelligence start-up Anthropic AI. The two
companies announced a partnership that will see the AI start-up use Google's cloud computing services.
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei announced that they would use Google Cloud to build reliable,
interpretable, and steerable AI systems and to create a robust AI platform.
67. Which Union Ministry implements the ‘FAME (faster adoption and manufacturing of electric
vehicles) scheme’?
[A] Ministry of Electronics and IT
[B] Ministry of Heavy Industries
[C] Ministry of Science and Technology
[D] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Answer: Ministry of Heavy Industries
Ministry of Heavy Industries implements the ‘FAME (faster adoption and manufacturing of electric
vehicles) scheme’. The government has nearly doubled its budgetary allocation for the FAME scheme to
subsidise the purchase of electric vehicles. As per the budget, the subsidy under FAME scheme for
fiscal 2024 is projected at Rs 5,172 crore, compared to the revised estimate of Rs 2,897 crore in the
current fiscal year. This is the highest allocation under the scheme since its launch in 2020.
68. Ministry of Cooperation signed MoU with which Ministry to enable Primary Agricultural Credit
Societies (PACS) function as Common Service Centers?
[A] Ministry of Science and Technology
[B] Ministry of Electronics and IT
[C] Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
[D] Ministry of Rural Development and Entrepreneurship
Answer: Ministry of Electronics and IT
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Ministry of Cooperation, Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology, NABARD and CSC e-Governance Services India Limited. It aims
to enable Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to provide services offered by Common Service
Centers. Over 300 services will be made available to the rural population including 13 crore farmer
members of PACS.
69. BIND Scheme, which was seen in the news, is associated with which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Defence
[B] Ministry of MSME
[C] Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
[D] Ministry of Power
Answer: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Of the Rs 1,100 crore estimated for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Rs 600 crore has been
set aside for the recently announced Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND)
Scheme. The scheme has a total outlay of over Rs 2,500 crore. The scheme aims to boost public sector
broadcasting in the country and focuses on infrastructure development of Prasar Bharati, including All
India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan (DD).
70. Which country introduced new family laws called ‘Federal Personal Status Laws’?
[A] USA
[B] UK
[C] UAE
[D] Australia
Answer: UAE
A set of new family laws, referred to as ‘Federal Personal Status Laws’, for non-Muslims residing in the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) came into force. These laws will apply to non-Muslim expatriates or
foreigners living in UAE and cover various aspects of family law like marriage, divorce, child custody,
inheritance, wills, and paternity. The new reforms to UAE’s judicial systems originate from Abu Dhabi’s
Civil Family Court System, which allows non-Muslim couples to divorce or marry without following the
Sharia laws.
71. Which Southeast Asian country partnered with the US to grant more access to its bases?
[A] Taiwan
[B] Philippines
[C] Singapore
[D] Malaysia
Answer: Philippines
The United States and the Philippines announced plans to expand America’s military presence in the
Southeast Asian nation. The countries decided to accelerate full implementation of their ‘Enhanced
Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA)’. As part of the agreement, the U.S. has allocated $82 million
toward infrastructure improvements at five current EDCA sites. This will provide access to four more
bases to the US.
72. Which country announced India as the theme country at its 2025 International Book Fair?
[A] Sweden
[B] Spain
[C] Germany
[D] Italy
Answer: Spain
India will be invited as the theme country at the Madrid International Book Fair in 2025, the Ambassador
of Spain to the country Jose Maria Ridao. Spain is the theme country at the 46th International Kolkata
Book Fair, which began recently. As part of the cultural exchange between the two countries, Spain has
donated books to five universities in Bengal.
73. 'VIHANGAM' Web portal, which was seen in the news, is associated with which field?
[A] Digital Currency
[B] Drone technology
[C] E-Sports
[D] Defence
Answer: Drone technology
Coal India arm, Mahanadi Coal Fields (MCL) MCL has introduced drone technology in coal mines for
environmental monitoring, volume measurement and digital mapping of mines. The technology has been
introduced through the launch of a web-based portal 'VIHANGAM' along with a drone and ground control
system. The portal allows an authorised person to access real time drone video from the mine through a
dedicated internet lease line near the mines.
74. Which is the first Indian retailer to introduce Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)?
[A] Reliance Retail
[B] Titan
[C] Big Bazaar
[D] Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail
Answer: Reliance Retail
Reliance Retail has become the first Indian retailer to introduce Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC),
also known as digital rupee. The company has piloted the use of Digital Rupee in one store in Mumbai,
and is planning to make this facility available in all its stores in Mumbai within the next three to four
months, in accordance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) norms.
75. Which country is India’s top destination for goods exports during April-Dec 2022?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] USA
[C] UAE
[D] Singapore
Answer: USA
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that the US has emerged as India’s top destination
for merchandise exports during April-December this fiscal at USD 59.7 billion. The US was followed by
UAE (USD 23.31 billion); Netherlands (USD 14.1 billion); China (USD 11 billion); Singapore and
Bangladesh (about USD 9 billion each).
76. National Research Foundation is an autonomous agency that comes under the aegis of which
Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Science and Technology
[B] Ministry of Electronics and IT
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] Ministry of Education
Answer: Ministry of Science and Technology
National Research Foundation is an autonomous agency that comes under the aegis of Ministry of
Science and Technology (DST). The Union Budget 2023-24 has earmarked Rs.2,000 crore as an outlay
for the National Research Foundation to boost research and innovation within India.
77. When is the ‘International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation’ observed?
[A] February 1
[B] February 2
[C] February 4
[D] February 6
Answer: February 6
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is observed on February 6 each year to
raise global awareness about the issue concerning the female genital mutilation (FGM). This day was
established in 2003 after the Campaign against Female Genital Mutilation officially declared “Zero
Tolerance to FGM” in Africa on February 6.
78. Medium-density Amorphous Ice, which was seen in the news, was created in a container filled
with which material?
[A] Plastic
[B] Stainless Steel
[C] Water
[D] Paper
Answer: Stainless Steel
Medium-density Amorphous (MDA) Ice is a new form of ice that was recently discovered by scientists.
This ice has same density and structure as water. The ice was created by scientists in a container with
stainless steel balls at a -200°C. The MDA ice does not have any ordered structure. It will provide the
opportunity to improve the understanding of the properties of water.
79. Who is the only living Indian to win the Grammy Award thrice?
[A] A R Rahman
[B] Ricky Kej
[C] Resul Pookutty
[D] Babbu Mann
Answer: Ricky Kej
Ricky Kej is an Indian musician and environmental activist. The Indian music composer recently won his
third Grammy Award for the album ‘Divine Tides’. He is the youngest person to win this award and only
the fourth Indian to achieve this feat. He recently made another history by becoming the only living
Indian to win the Grammy Award thrice.
80. ‘Ukaguru spiny-throated reed frog’, which was seen in the news, has been discovered in which
country?
[A] Colombia
[B] Tanzania
[C] Greece
[D] China
Answer: Tanzania
A new species of frog known as the Ukaguru spiny-throated reed frog has been discovered in African
country Tanzania. The frog has an uncommon characteristic of being completely silent, unlike other
frogs that croak, sing, or ribbit. This frog belongs to the ‘spiny-throated’ group. They are only found in
small populations, making them vulnerable to extinction.
81. Kiruna, which was seen in the news, is a small town located in which country?
[A] Switzerland
[B] Sweden
[C] Argentina
[D] Ukraine
Answer: Sweden
Kiruna is a town in northern Sweden that houses over 18,000 individuals and a tonne wooden church.
This town is currently under threat of being consumed by the world’s largest iron ore mine that is under
the control of the Swedish state-owned company LKAB. This entire town is currently being relocated and
it is considered as one of the significant relocations happened in the world.
82. India established a ‘Trade and Technology Council (TTC)’ along with which bloc?
[A] SAARC
[B] ASEAN
[C] EU
[D] G-20
Answer: EU
The India-EU Trade and Technology Council was jointly established by the European Union and India.
Under this new council, three working groups have been set up with the focus on strategic technologies,
digital governance, and digital connectivity; green and clean energy technologies; and trade, investment,
and resilient value chains. The working groups will be responsible for preparing for the TTC meeting,
which is set to take place before the next bilateral India-EU summit.
83. The eXperiential Technology Innovation Centre (XTIC) is a newly established research institute
in which institution?
[A] IISc Bengaluru
[B] IISER Bhopal
[C] IIT Madras
[D] NIT Warangal
Answer: IIT Madras
The eXperiential Technology Innovation Centre (XTIC) is a newly established research institute in IIT
Madras. It is India’s research and product innovation centre focusing on extended reality and haptics
technology. An MoU was signed recently between ISRO and the IIT Madras to develop a training module
for the Indian spaceflight programme at the XTIC. It will be developed using the augmented reality,
virtual reality and mixed reality.
84. Which state budget announced a road map for setting up green hydrogen hubs with outlay of Rs
200 crores?
[A] Telangana
[B] Kerala
[C] Assam
[D] Odisha
Answer: Kerala
The Budget presented by Kerala announced a road map for setting up green hydrogen hubs in Kochi and
Thiruvananthapuram in the next two years. A scheme of ₹200 crore has been announced for viability gap
funding/grant/equity support to set up the green hydrogen hubs. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked
additionally for the purpose in the Budget.
85. Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus) is prevalently found in which Indian state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Odisha
[D] Goa
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
As per the CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora)
trade database, 28 incidents of Red Sanders confiscation, seizure, and specimen were exported from
India. These consignments were exported to China (53.5%), Hong Kong (25.0%), Singapore (17.8%) and
the United States of America (3.5%) from 2016 to 2020. Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus) or red
sandalwood, is an endemic tree species with distribution restricted to the Eastern Ghats of India and is
found in Andhra Pradesh.
86. The Union Budget 2023-24 has allocated Rs. 2,516 crore for the computerization of which unit,
over the next 5 years?
[A] State Cooperative Banks
[B] District central cooperative banks
[C] Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
[D] Multi-state Cooperative Banks
Answer: Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
The Union Budget 2023-24 has allocated Rs. 2,516 crore for the computerization of 63,000 PACS over
the next 5 years. Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) are village-level cooperative credit
societies that act as the last link to the 3-tier cooperative credit structure, which is headed by the State
Cooperative Bank or SCB. Credit from the SCB is transferred to the district central cooperative banks
(DCCBs), which will then transfer the credit to the PACS.
87. Bard is an AI chatbot that is being developed by which tech major?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Google
[C] Meta
[D] Twitter
Answer: Google
Bard is an AI chatbot that is being developed by Google as a competitor for the popular Microsoft-
backed ChatGPT. Bard will use AI to generate answers in text when queries are typed by the users. This
chatbot will function based on the AI model called LaMDA, which was introduced by Google in 2021 as a
generative language model for dialogue applications.
88. ‘TReDS’ is an electronic platform that facilitates the transactions for which entitites?
[A] Pharma companies
[B] Exporters
[C] MSMEs
[D] Banks
Answer: MSMEs
The Trade Receivable Discounting System (TReDS) is an electronic platform that facilitates the financing
or discounting, trading and settling invoices of the MSMEs. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided
to expand the scope of the TReDS to allow the use of insurance facilities. This will facilitate secondary
market operations on the TReDS.
89. ‘Eagle 44 (Oghab 44)’ is the first underground air force base of which country?
[A] Iran
[B] North Korea
[C] Israel
[D] France
Answer: Iran
The Eagle 44 (Oghab 44) is the first underground air force base of Iran. It is capable of housing fighter
jets equipped with cruise missiles. The unveiling of the Oghab 44 is seen as a display of Iran's aerial
military strength in response to a joint drill conducted by the US and Israel. It will host jets and drones
equipped with long-range cruise missiles to destroy adversary targets in case of attack.
90. Which Indian state/UT proposed the Wetland Ex-Situ Conservation Establishment (WESCE)?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Sikkim
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Rajasthan
The Wetland Ex-Situ Conservation Establishment (WESCE) is a zoo that is being proposed by the state
government of Rajasthan. It is set to be established within the Keoladeo National Park, a World Heritage
Site also known as the Bharatpur bird sanctuary. The WESCE will display a range of wetland species like
water buffaloes, dolphins, crocodiles, and others.
91. The Indian Armed Forces are set to procure armed Predator MQ 9A drones from which country?
[A] France
[B] Israel
[C] USA
[D] Russia
Answer: USA
The Indian Armed Forces are looking to procure 18 armed Predator MQ 9A drones from the United
States. Of these 18 drones, six will be provided for each of the three armed forces. These unmanned
aerial vehicles are capable of flying up to 50,000 feet for a maximum duration of 24 hours. It is capable
of carrying air-to-ground missiles to target high-value ground targets or air-to-air missiles.
92. ‘High Mobility Artillery Rocket System’ (HIMARS) is manufactured by which country?
[A] France
[B] Israel
[C] USA
[D] Russia
Answer: USA
The US State Department gave the nod for the sale of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System
(HIMARS) launchers to Poland. The HIMARS and the related equipment will be sold to Poland at a cost
of around USD 10 billion. HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is a type of artillery system
that can fire long-range rockets with pinpoint accuracy. It has been used in the conflict between Ukraine
and Russia.
93. Which country is the host of the ‘International Marine Protected Areas Congress’ in 2023?
[A] Canada
[B] Australia
[C] Chile
[D] Argentina
Answer: Canada
Experts at the 5th International Marine Protected Areas Congress in Canada have recommended the
setting up of Marine Protected Areas. Marine protected areas are regions in the ocean where human
activities are regulated by the government. These protected areas are set up to address issues such as
pollution, litter, overfishing, and climate change.
94. National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) functions under
which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[B] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[C] Ministry of Rural Development and Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of Defence
Answer: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) is an apex government
body that comes under the aegis of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). It is
responsible for development of industrial corridors like Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, Bengaluru
– Mumbai Industrial Corridor and others. The Indian Government has sanctioned and approved 8
projects under NICDIT.
95. Which country is being hit by devastating forest fires following a blistering heat wave?
[A] Argentina
[B] Chile
[C] Brazil
[D] Uganda
Answer: Chile
In Chile, at least 23 people were killed in devastating forest fires which occurred after a blistering heat
wave in the central part of the country. The state of emergency has been extended in the South
American country. According to an official briefing on Saturday at least 979 people have been affected
following the calamity.
96. Visva-Bharati University, which was seen in the news recently, is located in which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Bihar
[C] West Bengal
[D] Odisha
Answer: West Bengal
UNESCO is set to announce Visva-Bharati University as a heritage university and it is set to become the
world’s first living heritage university. It was founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921, as a center for
culture, promoting the arts, language, humanities, music, and culture studies. Rabindranath Tagore's
philosophy of open-air education is followed at the university.
97. Which institution launched the ‘Zero-Draft’ of the Pandemic Treaty?
[A] World Bank
[B] World Health Organisation
[C] World Economic Forum
[D] International Monetary Fund
Answer: World Health Organisation
The ‘zero-draft’ of the pandemic treaty was launched recently by the World Health Organization’s
Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB). The international treaty is expected to be presented at the
World Health Assembly in 2024. The aim of the pandemic treaty is to strengthen national and
international-level preparedness against future pandemics.
98. ‘Paris Club’ an informal group of creditor nations, are the members of which organisation?
[A] OPEC
[B] OECD
[C] G-20
[D] G-7
Answer: OECD
The Paris Club is an informal group of creditor nations that functions as a platform for official creditors
that resolves payment issues faced by debtor countries. All of its 22 member states belong to the
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The Paris Club has recently decided
to offer financial support to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Sri Lanka's debt.
99. Who is the chairperson of the special committee to examine the need for a separate competition
law for digital companies?
[A] Manoj Govil
[B] Ashwini Vaishnaw
[C] Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Ramesh Chand
Answer: Manoj Govil
The government has set up a special committee to examine the need for a separate competition law for
digital companies. Chaired by Corporate Affairs Secretary Manoj Govil, the committee will review
whether existing antitrust laws in the country are equipped to deal with the challenges that have
emerged from the digital economy, and submit to the government a draft Digital Competition Act within
three months.
100. Which institution has released operational guidelines on green bonds?
[A] RBI
[B] SEBI
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] IRDAI
Answer: SEBI
Capital market regulator SEBI has launched operational guidelines on green bonds asking issuers to
make additional disclosures along with its annual report and financial results. The disclosures are
pertaining to environmental sustainability objectives of such debt securities in the offer document. In
addition, issuers of green bonds will have to disclose brief details of decision-making process followed
for determining the eligibility of projects.
101. Aaron Finch, who announces retirement from International Cricket, is from which country?
[A] England
[B] South Africa
[C] Australia
[D] West Indies
Answer: Australia
Australian men’s T20 captain Aaron Finch announced his retirement from international cricket. The 36-
year-old led Australia to its maiden T20 World Cup victory in 2021. Aaron Finch has captained the team
in 76 of the 103 T20 internationals he has played since debuting against England in 2011. He retired as
Australia’s one-day skipper last September.
102. ‘Operation Aag’ is associated with which state Police?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Kerala
Kerala Police have recently arrested 113 people who were accused in various criminal cases, under
‘Operation Aag’. The raids are being held to arrest those who were placed under the Kerala Anti-Social
Activities (Prevention) Act. Other initiatives of the state police include ‘Pink patrol’ which is specifically
for women’s safety, ‘Prasanthi’ for senior citizens among others.
103. Everglades wetland restoration project is associated with which country?
[A] Australia
[B] USA
[C] France
[D] Russia
Answer: USA
The Everglades is a wetland ecosystem in the southern part of the US state of Florida. It spans across
the southern half of a large drainage basin in the tropical region. This wetland ecosystem experiences
fluctuating weather changes, habitat loss and environmental degradation. A 35-year plan with an outlay
of 10 billion USD is being implemented to restore this wetland. This is the world’s largest and most
expensive ecological restoration project.
104. PK Rosy, who was honoured in the Google Doodle, was the first actress in which language?
[A] Tamil
[B] Malayalam
[C] Kannada
[D] Telugu
Answer: Malayalam
PK Rosy, was the first actress in Malayalam cinema. She is famed for defying gender and social norms
by acting in a film. On her 120th birth anniversary, she was honored with a Google Doodle. PK Rosy
belonged to a Dalit subcaste and learnt the traditional Kakkarissi Nattakam. Her debut film was
Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child, 1928).
105. Which Union Ministry launched the ‘Digital Payments Utsav’?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[D] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, launched a comprehensive
campaign plan, ‘Digital Payments Utsav, in New Delhi. Digital Payments Utsav, has been planned this
year to promote Digital Payments across the country and to celebrate the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and
G20 Presidency. Digital Payment Sandesh Yatra was also flagged off to make citizens aware of digital
payment solutions. DigiDhan awards were presented to banks that perform well in digital payments.
106. Which Indian state topped the medal tally in the 5th Khelo India Youth Games?
[A] Haryana
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Maharashtra
In the fifth Khelo India Youth Games recently concluded in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra ranks first in
the medal table with 161 medals including 56 gold medals. Maharashtra had already won the titles in
2019 and 2020. Haryana claimed the first runners-up trophy with 128 medals, followed by the hosts
Madhya Pradesh in the third place.
107. After the RBI Monetary Policy Statement announced in February 2023, what is the repo rate?
[A] 5.50 %
[B] 5.75 %
[C] 6.25 %
[D] 6.50 %
Answer: 6.50 %
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India hiked the key policy rate, the Repo
rate by 25 basis points to 6.50 per cent in a bid to control the retail inflation. The RBI has increased the
repo rate by a cumulative 250 basis points to 6.50 per cent since May this year. The RBI has projected
GDP growth for the next fiscal (FY2024) at 6.4 per cent.
108. Which country launched ‘Operation Dost’ to extend assistance to Turkey and Syria after the
massive earthquake?
[A] Pakistan
[B] China
[C] India
[D] Russia
Answer: India
India launched ‘Operation Dost’ to extend assistance to Turkey and Syria after the devastating
earthquake. The seventh 'Operation Dost' flight reached earthquake-hit Syria with over 23 tons of relief
material. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the flight is carrying more than 35 tons of relief
material, of which over 23 tons is headed for relief efforts in Syria, and around 12 tons to Turkey.
109. 'Gaziantep Castle', which was seen in the news, is a historical site located in which country?
[A] Russia
[B] Ukraine
[C] Turkey
[D] USA
Answer: Turkey
The earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria has badly damaged Gaziantep Castle, a historic site and
tourist attraction in south-eastern Turkey. The castle collapsed during the 7.8 magnitude earthquake
which hit Turkey. According to archaeological excavations, the castle was first built as a watchtower in
the Roman period in the second and third centuries C.E. and expanded over time. Most recently, it
served as ‘Gaziantep Defense and Heroism Panoramic Museum’.
110. Which Union Ministry signed an MoU with Digital Green to build a national-level digital
extension platform?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[C] Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
[D] Ministry of Finance
Answer: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare signed an MoU with Digital Green under a public-private
partnership framework to build a ‘National-level digital extension platform’. The platform will host a
digital library of multi-format multi-lingual content and upskill extension workers for agriculture,
horticulture, fisheries, livestock and rural livelihood missions through certified online courses.
111. Which country introduced new bank stress-test scenarios to examine the ability of the 23
biggest lenders?
[A] India
[B] USA
[C] UK
[D] China
Answer: USA
US Federal Reserve, the country’s central bank recently introduced Wall Street bank stress-test
scenarios. The central bank will examine the ability of the 23 biggest US lenders to withstand crisis
conditions without degrading their capital. For the first time, the so-called stress test will feature an
‘exploratory market shock’ to the trading books of the largest and most complex banks.
112. Which city is the host of the third edition of Khelo India Winter Games?
[A] Guwahati
[B] Shimla
[C] Gulmarg
[D] Leh
Answer: Gulmarg
The third edition of Khelo India Winter Games recently kicked off at Gulmarg, in the UT of Jammu and
Kashmir. Over 1500 sportspersons from across the country will participate in nine different winter sports
disciplines. Jammu and Kashmir holds the distinction to have topped in both the previous editions of the
Khelo India Winter Games held so far.
113. Which is the first Fintech company to launch cross-border transaction facility through UPI?
[A] BharatPe
[B] Razorpay
[C] PhonePe
[D] PayTm
Answer: PhonePe
PhonePe recently became the first Indian fintech company to enable payments abroad. It allows
international transactions through Unified Payments Interface (UPI). With this, Indian travellers can
make UPI transactions to foreign merchants using PhonePe platform. Cross-border transaction facility
by PhonePe will support all international outlets in UAE, Singapore, Nepal, Bhutan and Mauritius having
local QR Code.
114. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, which was seen in the news, is used to treat
which disease?
[A] Polio
[B] Cancer
[C] Tuberculosis
[D] Diabetes
Answer: Cancer
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is the latest innovation in the field of medicine, to treat
cancer. Rather than relying on drugs, like chemotherapy or immunotherapy, the CAR T cell therapy
treatments utilise a patient's own cells that have been altered in a lab to stimulate T-cells and attack
tumour cells. Currently, CAR T-cell therapy has received clearance for treating leukemia and lymphoma
types of cancer.
115. Nebraska’s Sand Hills, where a new type of quasi-crystal was discovered, is located in which
country?
[A] China
[B] Turkey
[C] USA
[D] Ukraine
Answer: USA
Quasicrystal is a substance that has atoms orderly arranged like a crystal but its atomic structure is
more complex and does not repeat periodically in all directions. This unique complex pattern makes it
different from a normal crystal. Recently, a new type of quasicrystal was discovered in the north central
Nebraska’s Sand Hills in the USA. It had 12-fold symmetry. It may have been created during an
accidental electrical discharge because of a downed power line or a lightning strike.
116. Which state/UT is the host of ‘India’s First Frozen Lake Marathon’?
[A] Sikkim
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Ladakh
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Ladakh
India's first "frozen-lake marathon" is going to be organised at Pangong Tso lake in the union territory of
Ladakh. This event will be held at an altitude of 13,862 feet and cover a distance of 21 kilometers. The
marathon will start at Lukung and end at Maan village. The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border
Police (ITBP) will oversee the event. This marathon is called the ‘Last Run’ to highlight the issue of
climate change.
117. Which African country recently announced demonetization to address corruption and bring
down inflation?
[A] Egypt
[B] Nigeria
[C] South Africa
[D] Tanzania
Answer: Nigeria
Nigeria has recently announced demonetization to address corruption and bring down inflation. Its
purpose is to bring back most of the money that is in circulation outside the banking system and to
minimize money laundering. Nigerians are required to turn in their old 1,000, 500 and 200 naira
banknotes as part of this initiative in return for new naira notes. With the African country being largely
dependent on cash, the shortage of new naira notes is causing chaos in Nigeria.
118. Which country has planned to launch Millet International Initiative for Research and Awareness
(MIIRA)?
[A] USA
[B] India
[C] Indonesia
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: India
India has planned to launch a global initiative called the Millet International Initiative for Research and
Awareness (MIIRA) to promote the consumption and production of millets. MIIRA will coordinate
international millet research programs and support research on millet crops. This global initiative will
also raise awareness and promote millet consumption. India will provide the initial funding, while other
G20 countries will contribute to the budget.
119. What is the name of the exercise between National Security Guard (NSG) and US Special
Operations Forces (SOF)?
[A] VIKAS
[B] TARKASH
[C] BHIM
[D] VIRAT
Answer: TARKASH
The TARKASH exercise is a joint bilateral exercise between India's National Security Guard (NSG) and US
Special Operations Forces (SOF). The sixth edition of this exercise is being held in Chennai from January
16 to February 14. This is the first time that the ‘Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN)
terror response’ is included in TARKASH.
120. What is the name used to describe a group of synthetic chemicals called per-and polyfluoroalkyl
substances (PFAS)?
[A] Forever Chemicals
[B] Ultra-Synthetic Chemicals
[C] Eco Chemicals
[D] Ice Chemicals
Answer: Forever Chemicals
‘Forever chemicals’ is a term used to describe a group of synthetic chemicals called per- and
polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are highly persistent in the environment and resist degradation.
They are called ‘forever’ chemicals because they do not break down naturally and can persist for
decades or even centuries. A new study led by Oxford University found high levels of forever chemicals
in the ice around Norway’s Svalbard.
The above 120 questions are part of Daily Current Affairs 20 MCQs Series in GKToday Android
Application. This series with daily 20 MCQs, Answers and Explanations can be subscribed in the app
only for Rs. 799/- for entire year. Download Now.

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