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GK & Current Affairs: January 1 & 2, 2015

1. The union government has replaced the Planning commission, which will now be called as NITI
Aayog. Who among the following will be the chairman of the new institute?
Prime Minister
Prime Minister will be the chairperson of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog.
NITI Aayog to have a governing council comprising all chief ministers and lieutenant governors.

2. Recently, which country has successfully launched a new meteorological satellite called Fengyun-II
08?
China
Fengyun-II 08, is a Chinas new meteorological satellite that was launched from the Xichang Satellite
Launch Center in Sichuan province in the countrys southwest. The newly launched satellite is
expected to collect meteorological, maritime and hydrological data, while also transmitting information
that will be useful to forecast weather and monitor environmental changes.

3. Who among the following is the chairman of the committee that submitted its report on rail fare
hike, recently?
D K Mittal
A hike in passenger train fares, particularly in suburban service, and increase in the minimum distance
to be covered in passenger and express trains are some of the recommendations made by the
committee.

4. Recently, which among the following became the latest country to join Euro currency zone?
Lithuania
Lithuania has become the 19th member of euro currency zone.

5. The Chandyan village, where the remnants of late Harappan period house have been discovered
recently is located in __?
Uttar Pradesh
Chandyan Village is in Baghpat district of Uttar Pradesh. The Archaeological Survey of India, during its
excavation has found remnants of house that belongs to Harappan period.

6. At present, which of the following states have Legislative Councils?


Only 1, 2, 3 & 4
There are Legislative Councils in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh
and Telangana. The union cabinet has recently cleared a proposal of setting up of Legislative Council in
Assam.

7. As per the latest report, which one of the following states of India has worlds highest number of
conflict induced internally displaced persons in the world?

Assam
As per the report prepared by Asian Centre for Human Rights Assam had the highest conflict induced
internally displaced persons in the world during the year 2014. There are over 3,00,000 internally
displaced persons in Assam, which is the highest in the world during 2014.

8. Vasant Gowrikar, who passed away recently, was a famous personality in which field?
Space Science
Vasant Gowrikar was a space veteran and eminent scientist. He was the chief of Indian Space Research
Organisation in 1991-1993. His contribution to Indian space technology is immeasurable. Gowrikar was
the recipient of Padma Shri in 1984 and Padma Bhushan in 2008.

9. The Dongaria Kondh, one of Indias vulnerable tribal groups is found in which state?
Odisha
10. As per the RBI guidelines, what is the minimum paid-up equity capital for small finance banks?
Rs. 100 Crore

GK & Current Affairs: January 3, 2015


1. Which among the following is the official mascot of the 35th National Games?
Ammu
The Great Indian Hornbill or christened as Ammu, the state bird of the Kerala, is the official Mscot of
the 35th National Games
2. Who among the following is the author of The Dramatic Decade: The Indira Gandhi Years?
Pranab Mukherjee
The Dramatic Decade: The Indira Gandhi Years has been written by Pranab Mukherjee. This book
focuses on 1970s and is a rare account of one of the most contentious periods in Independent Indias
past: The Emergency.
3. Recently, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution in favour of granting
citizenship to Rohingya Muslims. The Rohingya Muslims are stateless people of __?
Myanmar
The Rohingya are a Muslim minority population living mainly in the state of Arakan, in Myanmar.
Recently, the United Nations general assembly adopted a resolution urging Myanmar to grant
citizenship to its Rohingya Muslims minority and grant them equal access to services.
4. Who among the following is chiefly known as Father of Indian Mansoon Model?
Vasant Gowrikar
Noted scientist and space veteran Vasant Gowrikar, who made valuable contribution to the fields of
space research, weather and population was chiefly known as Father of Indian Mansoon Model.
5. The former RBI deputy governor Shyamala Gopinath has been appointed as the chairperson of
which among the following banks?
HDFC Bank

Former RBI deputy governor Shyamala Gopinath has been appointed as chairperson of HDFC Bank,
Indias second largest private sector bank. She has been appointed as part-time non-executive
chairperson of the bank for a period of three years from January 2, 2015.
6. The Kolha is a tribe indigenous to which one of the following states?
Odisha
Kolha is an important tribe living in forest areas and hilly terrains in the state of Odisha.
7. Who among the following is the new chairman of the Railways board?
A K Mittal
A K Mittal is the new chairman of the Railways board.
8. For the first time, Kisan Vikas Patra was launched on __?
1st April 1988

9. According to International Federation of Journalist, which among the following is the most dangerous
country for journalists?
Pakistan
Pakistan is the most dangerous country for journalist, according to International Federation of
Journalist. In Pakistan 14 media persons lost their lives in 2014. As per the report, Asia Pacific region
was the most dangerous region for journalists and media staff in the world for a second consecutive
year. The Middle East is the second most dangerous region with 31 fatalities followed by Americas with
26. Africa came fourth (17 killings) and Europe reported nine deaths.
10. US dollar index is the trade weighted index of the how many currencies?
Six
US dollar index is a trade weighted index of the six most traded currencies globally viz. Euro (57.6%
weight), Japanese yen (13.6% weight), Pound sterling (11.9% weight), Canadian dollar (9.1% weight),
Swedish krona (4.2% weight) and Swiss franc (3.6% weight). It has been a key gauge for measuring
risk aversion among global investors in Indian equities and the investment outlook in global risky
assets. It has lost relevance in recent times.

GK & Current Affairs: January 4, 5, 2015


1. Which among the following is the only breeding ground for Indian Skimmer, an endangered fresh
water bird species?
Chambal River
The Indian Skimmer is an endangered fresh water bird species. The Chambal River is the only breeding
ground for the bird. The colourful bird, with a black cap and orange bill, was once widely found in
major rivers and estuaries. But it is now mainly seen in and around the National Chambal (Gharial)
Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
2. Recently, the union government has said it has decided to accept the recommendations of the
Bezbaruah Committee. Bezbaruah committee was set up to study the ___?
Safety and security of people from North East India
Bezbaruah Committee was set up to look into the safety and security of people from North East India.
In February, 2014 the Government had set up the Committee chaired by retired IAS officer M P

Bezbaruah, following killing of north-east student Nido Tania last year. The Committee handed over its
report in July 2014, which had recommendations on ways to solve the apprehensions of the people of
North East, with special regard to their safety and security.
3. The Itaipu Dam, one of the largest hydropower plants in the world is located in which country?
Brazil
The Itaipu hydroelectric power plant is second largest hydropower plant in Brazil. The project is located
on the Parana River, at the border between Brazil and Paraguay. Itaipu dam with an installed capacity
of 14,000MW ranks as the worlds second largest hydropower plant.
4. Which among the following is the theme of the Indian Science Congress-2015?
Science and Technology for Human Development
5. Who among the following has won the ATP World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi?
Andy Murray
Andy Murray won the ATP World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi. His win comes after world number
one Novak Djokovic withdrew from the final match citing reason of illness.
6. The Strait of Dover separates which of the following countries?
United Kingdom and France
The Strait of Dover is the strait at the narrowest part of the English Channel and marks a boundary
between the Channel and North Sea, separating Great Britain from continental Europe.
7. Recently, Prime Minister Modi has dedicated the digital village Akodara in Gujarat to the Nation.
Akodara has been developed as Digital village by which bank?
ICICI Bank
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated the digital village Akodara through digital inauguration in
Mumbai. Akodara village is part of Sabarkantha district of north Gujarat. It has been developed as
digital village by ICICI bank. In this village, shops, mandi, cooperative society, milk producer group
have been facilitated for cashless transactions.
8. The United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) has decided to prepare a Tea Atlas in which one of the
following states?
Assam
United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) has decided to prepare a Tea Atlas in Indias North Eastern
State Assam. This atlas seeks to create a comprehensive database of the tea gardens and socioeconomic condition of its workers in state.
9. Who among the following has become the fastest to score 12,000 runs in Test matches?
Kumar Sangakkara
Sri Lankan batsman Kumar Sangakkara has become the fifth cricketer to make 12,000-runs in Test. The
37-year-old Lankan legend reached the milestone in his 224th Test innings, surpassing Sachin
Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting, both of whom needed 247 innings to achieve the mark.
10. The Turpan Depression, the third lowest point on Earth is located in which of the following Asian
countries?
China
Turpan Depression is the lowest point in China and third lowest on Earth (after the Dead Sea and Lake
Assal (Djibouti) at 154 meters below sea level.

GK & Current Affairs : January 6, 7, 2015


1. The theme of National Youth Festival-2015, which began in Guwahati recently (January 2015) is __?
Youth for Clean, Green and Progressive India
The 19th National Youth Festival has begun in Guwahati, Assam. This festival coincides with the 152nd
birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Theme of this edition of youth festival is Youth for Clean,
Green and Progressive India. It aims to spread to spread national integration and harmony. National
Youth Festival is one of the most important events organized by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Sports wherein about 5000 youth from all over the country congregate to show their grit and metal in
the field of art and culture.
2. The Union Government is planning to launch Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan to create awareness among
the students in _____?
Science and Mathematics
The union government will launch Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan to create interest among the students in
Science and Mathematics. Abhiyan which will be launched from the next academic session envisages
to motivate and engage children in 6-18 age group in Science, Mathematics and Technology through
observation and experiment.
3. Who among the following has become the first to make three Test centuries in his first three innings
as captain?
Virat Kohli
Indian cricketer Virat Kohli became the first man to make three Test centuries in his first three innings
as captain. Kohli made this record on an eventful third day of the fourth Test against Australia in
Sydney.
4. Recently, which among the following banks has launched the countries first contactless debit and
credit cards?
ICICI Bank
ICICI bank has become the first bank to launch the countries first contactless debit and credit cards.
The cards use the near-field communication technology, enabling one to make payments by just
waving the card near merchant terminals instead of swiping the same. The bank has introduced these
two cards in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Gurgaon to begin with and it has installed over 1,200 PoS
machines capable of accepting contactless payments in these cities.
5. The strategic oil- and gas bearing region called Yamala Peninsula is located in which country?
Russia
The Yamal Peninsula stretches some seven hundred kilometres into the Arctic Ocean from the Russian
mainland below the Arctic Circle. It is believed that his region has one of the largest oil and gas
reserves in the world.
6. Which city is the host of International Hindi Conference (April 2015)?
New Jersey
New Jersey is the venue for the International Hindi Conference-2015 that will be held in April 2015.
Theme of 2015 edition of this conference is Expanding World of Hindi: Possibilities and Challenges.
7. According to Fortune magazine, the Business Person of the Year-2014 is __?
Larry Page
Google co-founder Larry Page has been named as the business person of the year-2014, according to
Fortune magazine. Larry Page surpassed global business leader Alibaba co- founder Jack Ma and
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, to top the list.

8. The largest monolith of granite in the world called El Capitan is located in __?
USA
El Captain, the largest monolith of granite in the world is in Californias Yosemite National Park USA. It
extends around 3,000 feet from base to summit along its tallest face. It is one of the worlds favourite
challenges for rock climbers and BASE jumpers.
9. Teixobactin, which is news recently, is a ____?
A new antibiotic
A new antibiotic Teixobactin is the first new class of antibiotic announced in decades. Teixobactin
shows great activity against some of the problem Gram positive superbugs like MRSA, enterococci, and
C. diffand has activity against tuberculosis and B. anthraces.
10. Maithripala Sirisena, has been elected as new President of which country?
Sri Lanka
Maithripala Sirisena has won the Presidential election of Sri Lanka. Maithiripala Sirisena was declared
elected in Presidential elections after he had defeated incumbent President Mahinda Rajapaksa by
more than 4 and a half lakh votes. In this election he had secured 51.28 per cent of total votes casted.
Sirisena is the seventh President of Sri Lanka.

GK & Current Affairs: January 8, 9, 2015


1. Recently, Indian Immunological Limited (IIL) has launched the Raksha Blue Indias first vaccine for
____?
Blue Tongue
Raksha Blue is Indias first vaccine for blue tongue disease prevalent among flocks of goats and sheep
across the country.
2. The 2016 UEFA European Championship or Euro 2016 for mens national football teams will be
hosted by which country?
France
France will host the 2016 UEFA Championship for mens national football teams. It is scheduled to be
held from 10 June to 10 July 2016.
3. Recently, which among the following countries has announced Great Collaborations programme to
forge collaboration with Indian companies?
UK
Great Collaboration is a campaign launched by United Kingdom to seek better cooperation between
the companies based in India and the UK on a range of sectors. The campaign will over the time
showcase and promote areas collaboration that benefit both countries across a range of sectors such
as energy, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, financial service and infrastructure.
4. The Charlie Hebdo, which is in news now a day, is a satirical newspaper from which country?
France
Charlie Hebdo is a French satirical weekly newspaper. The magazine has been in news when masked
gunmen attacked Charlie Hebdos offices in Paris. The attacker murdered 12 people and wounded
others, in Frances worst terrorist attack for half a century.
5. The Pampas are a grassland biome in ____?
South America

The Pampas are a grassland biome in South America. They are flat, fertile plains that covers an area of
300,000 sq.miles. It found primarily in Argentina and extended to Uruguay.
6. Recently, World Congress on International Law was held in ___?
New Delhi
World Congress on International Law was held in New Delhi from January 9-11. It was organised by
Indian Society of International Law.
7. In which of the following cities, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Dandi Kutir, a museum on the
life and works of Mahatma Gandhi?
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
8. Recently, Ranil Wickeramasinghe was sworn in as new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. He is the ___
Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Fill the blank with correct option?
10th
Ranil Wickeramasinghe is the tenth Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. He was the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
thrice, from 7 May 1993 to 19 August 1994, from 9 December 2001 to 6 April 2004.
9. The Living Planet Report, a science based analysis on the health of our only planet is published by
____?
World Wide Fund for Nature
The Living Planet Report is published by World Wide Fund for Nature in every two year. The report is
based on the Living Planet and ecological footprint calculations.
10. As per RBI guidelines, banks can allow minors above ___ years to independently open and operate
saving banks accounts. Fill the blanks with correct option?
10
Children older than 10 years can now open and operate saving bank accounts. RBI also allowed banks
to offer additional facilities like internet banking, ATM, debit card and chequebook to minor.

GK & Current Affairs: January 10, 11, 2015


1. With respect to Niti Aayog which of the following statements is/are true?
1. Sindhushree Khullar is the first CEO of Niti Aayog
2. Arvind Panagariya is the Vice-chairman of the Niti Aayog
3. Economist Bibek Debroy and V K Saraswat are full time members
1, 2 & 3
2. Who among the following is/are major players in the Government Securities Market?
1.
2.
3.
4.

Commercial Banks
Insurance Companies
Individual Households
Co-operative and Regional Rural Banks

Only 1, 3 & 4
Major players in the Government market include commercial banks and primary dealers beside
institutional investors like insurance companies. Other participants include co- operative banks,
regional rural banks, mutual funds, provident and pension funds.

3. The Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission (FSLRC), a body to review and rewrite the
legal-institutional architecture of the financial sector was set up by ___?
Ministry of Finance
The Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission (FSLRC) was set up on 24 March 2011 by Ministry
of Finance, Government of India. Former Judge of the Supreme Court Justice B N Srikrishna is the
chairman of the commission.
4. The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is an Islamist terrorist group founded by Uyghur
militants in which country?
China
The East Turkestan Islamic Movement is an Islamist terror group in China. It was founded by Uyghur
militants in western China. Its stated goals are the Independence of East Turkestan from China.
5. The book Born Again on the Mountain is authored by which of the following mountaineer?
Arunima Sinha
Arunima Sinha who became the first female amputee to scale Mount Everest is the author of the book
Born Again on the Mountain
6. Which of the following would be the first state to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL), an initiative of the United Nations?
Gujarat
Gujarat will be the first state to sign a MoU with Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL), an initiative of the
United Nations. Gujarat will sign the MoU during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. The intent of the MoU is
to establish a framework for collaboration between SE4ALL and the state government on activities that
would support SE4ALL objectives.
7. Satya Nadella, who has been conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is CEO to which
company?
Microsoft
Satya Nadella, is Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft. Nadella has been selected for a Pravasi Bharatiya
Samman Award, which will be presented to him in absentia in Gandhinagar.
8. Recently, China has honoured its top science award to veteran nuclear Physicist Yu Min. Yu Min is
popularly known as Father of Chinas ___?
Hydrogen Bomb
Veteran nuclear physicist Yu Min is dubbed as Father of Chinas Hydrogen Bomb. He was a leading
scientist in designing the Chinas hydrogen bomb, winning a medal for his contribution to two bombs,
one satellite, Chinas self-reliant national defence programme in 1999.
9. Celtic Tiger is a term used to describe the economy of which of the following countries?
Ireland
Celtic Tiger refers to the economy of the Republic of Ireland between 1995 and 2000. During this
period Ireland has seen rapid real economic growth fuelled by foreign direct investment, and a
subsequent property price bubble which rendered the real economy uncompetitive.
10. Which among the following countries has the worlds largest and most important tar oil sands
deposits?
Canada
Canada is boasting to have biggest and most important tar oil sands in the world followed by
Venezuela.

GK & Current Affairs: January 12, 2015


1. In a first of its kind in the country, which among the following state has separate ministry for cow
affairs?
Rajasthan
Rajasthan has separate ministry for cow affairs. Otaram Devasi is the Indias first cow minister.
2. Silesia, one of the largest coal producing region of Europe, is now located mostly in ____?
Poland
Silesia is a region of Central Europe now located mostly in Poland, with small parts in the Czech
Republic and Germany. Silesia is a resource-rich and populous region. This region is best known for
coal mining.
3. UNMEER is the first-ever United Nations emergency health mission, to combat ____?
Ebola
UNMEER or the UN Mission for Ebola Emergency Response is the first-ever UN emergency health
mission. It was set up as a temporary immediate needs related to the unprecedented fight against
Ebola.
4. In which one of the following cities, Biosafety lab to strengthen the countrys livestock disease
monitoring and forecasting system has been set up, recently?
Bangalore
A state-of-the-art bio safety laboratory to strengthen the countrys livestock disease monitoring and
forecasting system has been set up in Bangalore. The lab was set up by the National Institute of
Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics.
5. Stan Wawrinka, who won the Chennai Open title-2015, belongs to which country?
Switzerland
Stan Wawrinka is a Swiss professional tennis player. He is currently ranked World no.4. He defeated
Aliaz Bedene of Slovernia 6-3, 6-4 to become the Chennai Open champion.
6. Recently, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, has become the first female President of ____?
Croatia
Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, has become the first President of Croatia. Kitarovic was a former foreign
minister and member of the centre-right opposition HDZ party. She secured 50.5% of the vote with
99% ballots counted, while incumbent Ivo Josipovic was close behind on 49.5%.
7. Recently, Reserve Bank of India and which one of the following has signed a memorandum of
understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the area of central banking?
European Central Bank
The RBI and European Central Bank has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for
cooperation in the area of central banking. The MoU provides a framework for regular exchange of
information, policy dialogue and technical cooperation between the two.
8. Who among the following has been chosen for the prestigious Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award2015?
M Y S Prasad
M Y S Prasad, has been chosen for the prestigious Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award-2015. Prasad is
director of Satish Dhawan Space Centre. He has chosen for his outstanding contribution to R&D in the
field of space science in his career at the ISRO.

9. Recently, which states has launched the Sandesh One project, an initiative for creating network of
women social entrepreneur offering technologies and solution at the gross root level?
Kerala
10. The percentage of skilled people among the total workforce is highest in which one of the following
countries?
South Korea
The percentage of skilled people among the total workforce is highest in South Korea, which has 96 per
cent. Japan has 80 per cent, Germany has 75 per cent and UK 70 per cent. In India it is just 2 per cent.

GK & Current Affairs: January 13, 2015


1. Which among the following has won the best film drama at the Golden Globe Awards?
Boyhood
The movie Boyhood directed by Richard Linklaters has won the best film drama at the Golden Globe
Award. Boyhood take 12 year to make. Linklater named best director and Patricia Arquette best
supporting actress.
2. The Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award, an award for distinguished scientist is given by ____?
Indian Science Congress Association
The Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), a premier scientific organisation of the country has
been giving this award. The awards carry a gold medal and given in alternate years. Indian Science
Congress Association was established in 1914.
3. The Popular State Militia is a pro-government militia formed by which country to fight against
Islamic State terrorist?
Syria
4. Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India has declared the following monuments as Adarsh
monuments. Identify the wrongly paired one?
Vaishali Kolhua Jharkhand
The Hazadurai Palace in Murshidabad, Rang Ghar in Assam, world famous Konark Sun Temple in Odisha
and Vaishali Kolhu in Bihar has been given the coveted Adarsh Monument tag by Archaeological
Survey of India. These sites have been selected under the Adarsh Smarak Yojana.
5. The Dardanelles Strait, is a narrow strain in northern Turkey connects ____?
Aegean Sea and Sea of Marmara
The Dardanelles Strait, a vital transportation bridge between the Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea, is
a narrow channel of water that connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It separates Asian
Turkey from European Turkey (Trace), thus it also separates the two continents.
6. Which among the following has broke record for highest run-chase in T20 International cricket,
recently?
West Indies
West Indies set record for highest run-chase in T20 International cricket against South Africa. It is the
highest successful run chase in Twenty20 international cricket, beating Indias 211 against Sri Lanka in
2009, with 467 runs scored in under 40 overs.
7. The Lake Chapala, is the largest fresh water lake of ____?

Mexico
Lake Chapala is Mexicos largest freshwater lake.
8. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), is a proposed free trade agreement
between the members of ____?
ASEAN
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a proposed free trade agreement between
the ten ASEAN member states and the groups Free Trade Agreement partners, Australia, China, India,
Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.
9. Recently, the union government has given its approval to link Damanganga-Pinjal interstate river
link project. The project envisages sharing of water between which two states?
Gujarat and Maharashtra
The Damanganga-Pinjal River Linking is a project to share waters of two river basins across
Maharashtra and Gujarat. The Damanganga-Pinjal rivers linking project envisages transfer of balance
available water at the proposed Bhugad reservoir across Damangangariver and at the proposed
Khargihill reservoir across Vagh river, a tributary of Damanganga river, in Damanganga basin for
augmentation of water supply to Greater Mumbai to meet its domestic and industrial water
requirements in the near future.
10. The first-ever Budda Heritage walk was recently held in ___?
Bihar
The first-ever Budda Heritage Walk was held in Bihar. It was organized by the Bihar Tourism
Development Corporation. More than five hundred People from 11 countries walked through a 13 kilo
meter long forest rail which Lord Gautama Buddha had once walked to Rajgir from Bodagaya around
2,543 years ago.

GK & Current Affairs: January 14, 2015


1. Which among the following has won the Federation Cup Football Tournament 2014-15?
Bengaluru FC
2. Who among the following has been voted as 2014 Asian Tour Players Player of the year?
Anirban Lahiri
Indian professional golfer Anirban Lahiri, who currently plays on the Asian Tour, has been voted the
2014 Asian Tour Players Player of the year.
3. Maati Ke Rang, a national culture festival, has been organised in which one of the following
northeast states, recently?
Assam Nagaland
Maati Ke Rang, a national cultural festival was kick started at Dimapur, Nagaland on January 13. The
festival was organised by the Union ministry of cultures North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) for
the first time in the northeast. The five-day extravaganza will showcase the cultural diversity of the
country. Artists from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Myanmar will also take part in the event. The
previous editions were held in Panchkula, Haryana (2012), and Nagpur, Maharashtra, (2013).
4. The International Year of Light 2015 is an initiative that aims to raise awareness about the
breakthroughs in light science is adopted by___?
UN
IYL 2015 is a project of United Nations that aims to raise awareness about the breakthroughs in light
science and its applications and its importance to humankind.

5. Who among the following is the new chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation?
A S Kiran Kumar
A S Kiran Kumar has been appointed as new secretary of the department of space and also chairman
of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the space commission.
6. Who among the following has been named as the Governor of the Year in the Central Banking
Awards for 2015?
Raghuram Rajan
Reserve Bank of India governor Raghuram Rajan has been named as the Governor of the Year in the
central banking journal award for 2015. This is the recognition of the part of RBI and its staff have
been playing in bringing macroeconomic stability to the Indian economy.
7. Recently, Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha has become the first Hindu chief justice of which one of the
Muslim major countries?
Bangladesh
Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha has been appointed as Chief Justice of Bangladesh. Sinha became the
first Hindu to hold highest judicial post in the Muslim-majority country.
8. Recently, Idukki has become the first district in the country to have high speed rural broadband
network. Idukki district is in which state?
Kerala
Idukki is a district in Kerala state. It has become the first district in the country to have high speed
Rural Broadband Network i.e. National Optical Fibre Network internet connectivity. In Idukki, 8 block
offices and 52 village panchayat out of 53 will benefit from this project.
9. The winners of FIFA Ballon dOr award for 2014 in men and women category, respectively _____?
Cristiano Ronaldo and Nadine Kessler
Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and Germany midfielder Nadine Kessler are the winners of the
FIFA Ballon dOr award for 2014 in men and women category respectively.
10. Lima, the host of United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP20 or COP10, is the capital of
which country?
Peru

GK & Current Affairs: January 15, 2015


1. The prestigious Vyas Samman award for the Year-2014 will be awarded to ___?
Kamal Kishore Goyanka
Eminent Hindi litterateur Kamal Kishore Goyanka has been chosen for the prestigious Vyas Samman
award for the year 2014. He has been chosen for this award for his research work Premachand Kee
Kahaniyo Kaa Kaalkramanusar Adhyayan.
2. The Indira Paryaavaran Bhavan, Indias first Net Zero Energy building is located in which city?
New Delhi
Indira Paryavaran Bhavan, Indias first net zero energy consumption building is in New Delhi. The
building is constructed in such a way that it can meet its most of its annual energy requirement
through solar power. The net zero energy building is a structure with zero net energy consumption
where the total amount of energy used in the premises on an annual basis is more or less equal to the
amount of renewable energy created on the site.

3. Which one of the following is the slogan of the Vistara airline which commissioned its operation,
recently?
Fly the New Feelings
4. According to New World Wealth report, the number of High Net worth Individuals is highest in which
one of the following religions?
Christians
Christians dominate the list of high net worth individuals, according to the report by New World Wealth
report. Christians followed by Muslims and Hindu. As per the report the total wealth held by Christians
stood at $ 107,280 billion, which account for over 55 per cent of worldwide health, followed by Muslims
at the second place with wealth of $ 11,335 billion (5.8 per cent) and Hindu with wealth of $ 6,505
billion (3.3 per cent).
5. The Ken River flows through which of the following two states?
Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh
6. Who among the following has been selected for the Social Media Person of the Year award?
Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan has been named Social Media Person of the Year by the Internet and Mobile
Association of India.
7. Which among the following books is not authored by writer- cum-politician Shashi Tharoor?
The Blue Mountain
8. Bhakti Sharma, who is in news recently, is associated with ____?
Swimming
Bhakti Sharma is open water swimming champion. Recently, she set a world record by swimming 1.4
miles in 52 minutes in one degree temperature in the Antarctic Ocean. She became the first Indian
woman to and also the first Asian to achieve this feat.
9. Recently, Indian railway has flagged off the first Compressive Natural Gas (CNG) based trains in
which state?
Haryana
Indias first CNG based two trains were flagged off from Haryanas Rewari station. The trains will run
between Rewari-Rohtak and Rewari to Bikaner section. These trains based on the dual fuel systemdiesel and CNG will reduce greenhouse gas emission and also the consumption of diesel.
10. Which among the following banks has bagged the MSME Banking Excellence Awards-2014?
Corporation Bank
Corporation bank has won the MSME Banking Excellence Awards-2014. The bank bagged two awards
under the categories Best MSME Bank award for other bank and Best Bank award. The awards were
instituted by Chamber of Indian Micro Small and Medium Enterprises.

GK & Current Affairs: January 16, 2015


1. Which one of the following is the venue for the 30th Africa Cup of Nations?
Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea is hosting the 30th edition of Africa Cup of Nations. Sixteen teams will compete in
the event from 17 January to 8 February in venues across Equatorial Guinea.
2. Recently, which one of the following countries has commissioned the Huanggang, a new missile
destroyer?
ChinaHuanggang is a new missile destroyer commissioned by China. The new 4,000-tonne guided
missile destroyer which can attack ships and submarines. It was named after a city in central Chinas
Hubei province. It is one of the new generations of battle warships with long-range detection and airdefence capabilities.
3. Hari Shankar Brahma is the ___ Chief Election commissioner of India. Fill the blank with correct
option?
19th
Election Commissioner Hari Shankar Brahma has been appointed as the Chief Election Commissioner.
Brahma is the 19th Chief Election Commissioner of India.
4. The e-Panchayat project, which has won the National Award for e-Governance for the best districtlevel initiative is a project of which state?
Jammu & Kashmir
The e-Panchayat is a project in Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen 147 Panchayats. It was launched in
2013-14. Under the project, a decentralised regime of Panchayats has been established with service
delivery shifted from block level to Panchayat level. Jammu and Kashmir has bagged the award first
time in 18 years since the institution of awards in 1997
5. Prabhu Nath Dwivedi, who has been named as the winner of the 2014-Sahitya Akademi Award, is an
eminent scholar in ___?
Sanskrit
Prabhu Nath Dwivedi is an eminent Sanskrit scholar. Dwivedi has been conferred the prestigious
Sahitya Akademi Award for 2014 for his Kanakalochanaha collection of short stories. The collection
comprises of 16 short-stories that touch upon various social issues eroding the system.
6. Who among the following is the author of the book India Shastra: Reflections On The Nation In Our
Time?
Shashi Tharoor
7. Which one of the following states is organising the International Conference on Buddhist Heritage
(Febraury-2015)?
Odisha
Odisha will host the International Conference on Buddhist Heritage from February 6, 2015. A three-day
International Buddhist Conference would be attended by the Ambassador of Thailand, High
Commissioner of Sri Lanka and many other dignitaries along with tour operators from New Delhi and
senior executives from hotel groups to draw a plan to attract tourists.
8. World Congress on Information Technology-2018, a biennial event will be held in ___?
Hyderabad
9. With which one of the following countries India has not implemented Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)?
USA
India has implemented Free Trade Agreements with Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.

10. As per the latest report, India-ASEAN free trade agreement (FTA) in services and investments will
come into force from ____?
1st July, 2015
Indias free trade agreement (FTA) in services and investments with 10-member ASEAN grouping will
come into force from July 2015.

GK & Current Affairs: January 17, 18, 2015


1. For which among the following books, Ashok Srinivasan has been named winner of The Hindu Prize2014 ?
Book of Common Signs
Ashok Srinivasan won The Hindu Prize-2014 for his work Book of Common Signs. Book of Common
Signs is a collection of 13 short stories.
2. The winner of womens Brisbane International Title 2015 in professional tennis tournaments is __?
Maria Sharapova
Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova won the Brisbane International Title-2015 by defeating Ana
Ivanovic.
3. Recently, UN chief Ban Ki-Moon has inaugurated the Indias first-ever canal top solar power plant in
__?
Gujarat
United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-Moon has inaugurated the canal top solar power plant in
Gujarat. The 1 megawatt project envisaged covering of 3.6km of Vododara branch of Narmada river
canal with solar panels.
4. The union ministry of water resource has decided to celebrate the year 2015-16 as ____?
Jal Kranti Varsh
The Union Minister for Water Resources has decided to observe the Year 2015-16 as Jal Kranti Varsh
(Year) across the country. The move is to create awareness the need of conservation and saving of
water.
5. The Great Rift Valley, an intra-continental ridge system is located in ____?
Africa
The Great Rift Valley is a part of an intra-continental ridge system running north to south for around
4,000 miles (6,400 kilometres), from northern Syria to central Mozambique in East Africa.
6. Which among the following are the only banks from India listed in the top 50 global banks in terms
of market capitalisation, recently?
HDFC and SBI
HDFC and SBI are the only banks from India to figure in a list of the top 50 global banks in terms of
market capitalisation. HDFC Bank, Indias second-largest private bank in terms of asset size, ranks
45th, with a market capitalisation of $39 billion and SBI is ranked 46th ($38 billion). Reference
7. The names of mascots for 2016 Rio Olympic Games and Paralympics Games are respectively__?
Vinicius & Tom
Vinicius and Tom are the names of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and Paralympics Games. These are
names of two great Brazilian musicians Vinicius de Moraes and Tom Jobim. The mascot Vinicius is a
yellow feline animal, which represents Brazils rich floral and faunal diversity.

8. According to RBI guidelines, the net NPA of a bank should be less which among the following
fractions of overall assets to be eligible for insurance broking?
Three percent
The Reserve Bank of India has issued the final guidelines for banks to become insurance brokers. As
per the guidelines, the net NPA of a bank should be less than three per cent of overall assets to be
eligible for insurance broking.
9. Which one of the following banks has topped the list of top 50 most-valued global banks in terms of
market capitalisation?
ICBC
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) tops the list of global banks. ICBC has market
capitalisation of $285 billion. Wells Fargo ($263 billion) ranked second in the list.
10. The headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) are located in __?
Abu Dhabi
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is headquartered in Abu Dhabi. IRENA is an
intergovernmental organisation to promote adoption and use of renewable energy. It was founded in
2009 and its statue entered into force on 8 July 2010.

GK & Current Affairs: January 19, 20, 2015


1. Which among the following countries has occupied first place in the Global Talent Competitiveness
Index (GTCI)?
Switzerland
Switzerland has been ranked no.1 in the annual Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI).
Switzerland followed by Singapore, Luxemburg, Denmark and United States have been place in the top
five. India has been ranked 78th in the list.
2. Who among the following has been appointed as new chairman of Central Board of Film Certification
(CBFC)?
Pahlaj Nihalani
Pahlaj Nihalani has been appointed the chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Nihalani is a former president of the Association of Motion Picture and Television Programme Producers.
Nihalani has produced films like Shola Aur Shabnam and Andaz in the past.
3. To celebrate the power of voters the Election Commission of India has been organising Matdata
Mahotsava in which city?
New Delhi
The Election Commission of India has been organising Matdata Mahotsava at the Dilli Haat in South
Delhi. The event will showcase India as a vibrant and performing democracy. The event will include a
photo exhibition, capturing some special moments from the beginning of general elections to the 16th
Lok Sabha.
4. The Gini Coefficient is used to measure _____?
Inequality of income or health
Gini coefficient represents the income distribution of a countrys residents. It was developed by the
Italian statistician and sociologist Corrado Gini. It measures the inequality. The coefficient ranges from
zero to one, with zero representing perfect equality and one showing perfect inequality. The more the
inequality, the more is Gini Coefficient. The more is the value of Gini Coefficient, the more is gap
between rich and poor.

5. Recently appointed Indian mens football team head coach Stephen Constantine is from__?
England
Stephen Constantine is an English professional football coach. The All India Football Federation (AIFF)
confirms the appointment of Stephen Constantine as the Head Coach for the Senior Mens National
Team of India. Stephen will also be in charge of the India U-23 National Team. Earlier he was India
football coach from 2002 to 2005.
6. The Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) is a bi-national hydropower project between India and
__?
Nepal
The Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) is a bi-national hydropower project to be developed by
India and Nepal. The project is on Mahakali River bordering Nepal and India.
7. The movie The Theory of Everything is based on the life story of which one of the following
celebrated physicist?
Stephen Hawking
The Theory of Everything is the story of the most brilliant and celebrated physicist Stephen Hawking,
and Jane Wilde the arts student he fell in love with whilst studying at Cambridge in the 1960s.
8. Which among the following West African countries has been declared Ebola free, recently?
Mali
The Malian government and the United Nations have declared the country free of Ebola after
registering 42 days without any new cases of the deadly virus. Countries must report no new cases for
42 days or two incubation periods of 21 days to be declared Ebola-free.
9. Which among the following state is not among the Special Category States in India?
Odisha
Special Category States status is so far extended to 11 states including 7 sisters of the North East viz.
Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura and the border states
of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim as well as Himalayan state of Uttarakhand.
10. According to International Monetary Fund (2013) estimates, in nominal GDP terms, what is the rank
of Indian Economy in world?
10th
India is currently the 10th-largest economy in the world in nominal GDP terms. In purchasing power
parity (PPP) terms, it is the third-largest economy, right behind the US and China.

GK & Current Affairs: January 21, 22, 2015


1. According to latest tiger census report (2015), which among the following states has recorded
highest number of tigers?
Karnataka
Tiger numbers in India grow by 30% in four years according to latest tiger census report. The
population of tigers has increased in India from 1,706 in 2011 to 2, 226 in 2014. Karnataka has the
highest number of tigers (406) followed by Uttarakhand (340), Madhya Pradesh (308), Tamil Nadu
(190) and Maharashtra (167).
2. Who among the following is the chairman of the committee that has submitted its report on
restructuring of Food Corporation of India, recently?

Shanta Kumar
Shanta Kumar is the chairman of the eight-member committee, which was set up in August 2014, to
recommend restructuring of Food Corporation of India. The committee has submitted its report to the
government. The panel was asked to suggest a model for restructuring FCI to improve its operational
efficiency and financial management, and suggest measures for overall improvement in improvement
in management of food grains by FCI.
3. The Tadoba-Andhari Tiger reserve is located in ____?
Maharashtra
Tadoba-Andhari tiger reserve is in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra. The Tadoba-Andhari is fften
referred to as The Jewel of Vidharba.
4. Recently, a first of its kind in the world economic valuation of tiger reserves has been conducted in
India. As per the study which tiger reserves has highest annual flow benefits?
Periyar Tiger Reserve
In a first of its kind exercise, India has conducted economic valuation of six of its tiger reserves and
placed their value at Rs 1,49,900 crore. The valuation study was conducted by Indian Institute of
Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal, at the behest of the environment ministrys National Tiger
Conservation Authority (NTCA). The study provides quantitative and qualitative estimates of benefits
accruing from tiger reserves which include economic, social and cultural services. The report shows
that Periyar tiger reserve has the highest annual flow benefits (Rs 1,760 crore), followed by Kanha (Rs
1,650 crore) and Corbett (Rs 1,470 crore).
5. The Kabuki is a traditional form of theatre belongs to which one of the following countries?
Japan
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theatre. It is recognized as one of Japans three major classical
theatres along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
6. Indias first and only container trans-shipment terminal is in ____?
Vallarpadam
Indias first container trans-shipment terminal is at Vallarpadam in Cochin port, Kerala.
7. The Houthis are members of a rebel group operating in which country?
Yemen
The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah (Partisans of God), are members of a rebel group operating in
Yemen. The Houthis, who adhere to a branch of Shia Islam known as Zaidism. Zaidis make up one-third
of the population and ruled North Yemen under a system known as the imamate for almost 1,000
years until 1962. The Houthis take their name from Hussein Badr al-Din al-Houthi. He led the groups
first uprising in 2004 in an effort to win greater autonomy for their heartland of Saada province, and
also to protect Zaidi religious and cultural traditions from perceived encroachment by Sunni Islamists.
8. The National Financial Switch, the largest shared automated teller machines in India, is run by ____?
National Payments Corporation of India
The National Financial Switch (NFS) run by the National Payment Corporations of India. The NFS was
conceptualised, developed and implemented by Institute of Development and Research in Banking
Technology with a view to inter-connect the ATMs in the country.
9. Which one of the following organisations is launching new anti-terrorism projects in partnership with
Muslim countries and also increasing its intelligence sharing?
European Union

The European Union has decided to launch a slew of new anti-terrorism projects in partnership with
Muslim nations and also increase the sharing of intelligence. This move comes after a series of
violence in Belgium and lethal attacks in France.
10. Which one of the following institutes was founded by Rajni Kothari, renowned political scientist,
who passed away recently?
Centre for Study of Developing Societies
Rajni Kothari was a renowned political scientist. He founded the Centre for Study of Developing
Societies (1963), a research institute which did pioneering work in the field of caste, identity and
politics. He was also one of the first presidents of Peoples Union for Civil Liberties and a former
Planning Commission member.

GK & Current Affairs: January 23, 24, 2015


1. The United Nations general assembly has declared the year 2015 as ____?
International Year of Soils
The International Year of Soils, 2015 (IYS 2015) was declared by the Sixty-eighth session of the United
Nations General Assembly on December 20, 2013 after recognizing December 5 as World Soil Day. The
International Year of Soils aims to be a platform for raising awareness of the importance of soils for
food security and essential eco-system functions. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations has been nominated to implement the IYS 2015.
2. Who among the following has won the prestigious DSC Prize for Literature, one of the South Asias
top literary awards?
Jumpa Lahiri
Indian-American author Jhumpa Lahiri has won the $50,000 DSC Prize for Literature, one of South
Asias top literary awards. She was awarded the prize for her book, The Lowland.
3. The Yunnan province, which is considered Chinas gateway to Southeast Asia, does not share its
border with which one of the following countries?
Japan
Yunnan is Chinas gateway to Southeast Asia, sharing common borders with Myanmar, Laos and
Vietnam.
4. Which of the following banks has launched banking service on Twitter which allows customers to
transfer money using the social networking site, recently?
ICICI Bank
ICICI Bank, Indias largest private sector bank has launched banking service on Twitter which allows
customers to transfer money using the social networking site. The facility, which is first of its kind in
India, allows customers to check their account balance, view the last three transactions and recharge
their prepaid mobile phones using their accounts on the site.
5. The National Girl Child Day is observed on ____?
January 24
National girl child day is celebrated every year on 24th of January. It is celebrated to increase the
awareness among people about all the inequalities faced by the girl child in society. The ministry of
women and child development was celebrating it since 2008.
6. Who among the following has clinched the womens billiards title at the National Billiards and
Snooker Championship?
Arantxa Sanchis

Arantxa Sanchis has won the billiards womens title. She defeated state-mate Meenal Thaku in the
National billiards and snooker championship held at the Bengal Rowing Club in Kolkata.
7. The Rara Lake is the biggest lake of which among the following countries?
Nepal
Rara Lake is the largest lake of Nepal. It is situated in Mugu district in the Karnali Zone of Nepal. It is
also known as Mahendra Daha after the late King Mahendra of Nepal
8. Worlds largest vertical maze has been unveiled in recently in __?
Dubai
The worlds largest vertical maze has been unveiled in Dubai. The tower, an iconic 55-storey mixeduse building, was constructed by Al Rostamani Group. The maze has been confirmed by records tallykeeper Guinness World Records to be the largest vertical maze.
9. M S Narayana, who died recently, was a popular actor and comedian in which film industry?
Telugu
M S Narayana was a famous actor and comedian in Telugu film industry. Narayana was acted in more
than 700 films. He won five Nandi awards and a filmfare award during his long and illustrious career.
10. According 2011 census, which of the following North East region states has lowest child sex ratio?
Manipur
In the North East region, Manipur has lowest child sex ratio. Child sex ratio in Manipur was 957 in 2001
which declined to 936 in the 2011. Arunachal Pradesh has sex ratio of 972, Mizoram and Meghalaya
(970), Tripura (957) and Nagaland (943).

GK & Current Affairs: January 25, 26, 2015


1. Which among the following states is the site for Indias first International Institute of Music?
Kerala
Kerala state government has announced the setting up of Indias first International Institute of Music.
The trust headed by Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan has been given the responsibility to set up
the institute.
2. Recently, which one of the following schemes of union government has entered into Guinness book
of world record?
Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana
Prime Minister Modis ambitious initiative financial inclusion scheme Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana
has entered into the Guinness book of world record for opening the highest number of bank accounts
in the least time. As per the data 11.5 crore new accounts has been opened under the scheme so far.
3. Who among the following is the author of the book Neither A Hawk, Nor A Dove?
Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri
Pakistans former foreign minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri is the author of the book Neither A Hawk,
Nor A Dove. The book will provides a detailed account of Indo-Pak diplomacy through the eyes of
Kasuri.
4. Which among the following is the first state in India to launch web based education programme for
all schools?
Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh became the first state in the country to launch web based education programme
for all schools in collaboration with Google. The programme would initially launch in 50 to 100 schools
of over 7000 schools and later extended to other schools in phased manner.
5. Who heads the Supreme Court panel to ensure major reforms in the practice and procedure of BCCI?
Justice R M Lodha
Supreme Court appointed a three member panel to recommend major reforms in the practice and
procedure of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The panel to be headed by former CJI
Justice R M Lodha along with Justice Ashok Bhan and Justice R V Raveendran to suggest amendments
in the board rules and regulations.
6. Currently, who among the following is the worlds oldest monarch?
Queen Elizabeth
Britains Queen Elizabeth II is now worlds oldest monarch. She became oldest monarch in the world
after the death of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.
7. The Tunnel of Time is the autobiography of _____?
R K Lakshman
The Tunnel of Time is an Autobiography of an eminent Indian cartoonist R K Laxman. His other
notable books are The Eloquent Brush, Servants Of India, Sorry, no room, The Very Best of the
Common Man, Thama and the Little Bird, Laxman Resha, Science Smiles etc.
8. Edgar Lungu, has been elected as new President of which one of the following countries?
Zambia
Edgar Lungu, candidate from the ruling Patriotic Front has won Zambias presidential election. Lungu
received 48.3 per cent of the vote, while Hakainde Hichilema of the united party for national
development secured 46.7 per cent and came second.
9. Who among the following has won the womens and mens singles titles, respectively at Syed Modi
International Badminton Championship?
Saina Nehwal and P Kashyap
Saina Nehwal and P Kashya clinched the womens and mens singles titles, respectively at Syedi Modi
International Badminton Championship.
10. The Channapatna toys are a particular form of wooden toys that are manufactured in which
state?
Karnataka
The Channapatna toys are a particular form of wooden toys that are manufactured in Channapatna
town in Karnataka state. The toys from this place are famous worldwide for their uniqueness. The
traditional toys and dolls made of special wood in colours are protected as a geographical indication
(GI) under the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

GK & Current Affairs: January 27, 28, 2015


1. Recently, India and United States have signed an agreement to develop three smart cities in India.
Which one of the following is not one of that?
Bhopal
India and United States has signed pacts under which the three cities viz., Allahabad, Ajmer and
Vishakhapatnam will be developed as smart cities with the help of United States Trade and
Development Agency (USTDA).

2. Proposed Kowada Nuclear Power Plant is located in which of the following states of India?
Andhra Pradesh
Kowada Nuclear Power Plant is a proposed power project is in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh.
The project will be developed under the Indo-US agreement.
3. With the assistance of which of the following bodies, the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project
(NCRMP) was launched in India?
World Bank
The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) has been drawn up with a view to address the
cyclone risks in the country, with World Bank assistance. The main objectives of the project are to
minimize risk and vulnerabilities to cyclones, to strengthen the structural and non-structural cyclone
mitigation efforts and to build capabilities and capacities of people for cyclone risk mitigation in
harmony with the conservation of coastal ecosystems in coastal cyclone hazard prone States and
Union Territories.
4. Jaswant Singh Rajput, who passed away recently, was associated with which sports?
Hockey
Jaswant Singh Rajput (c. 1926 28 January 2015) was an Indian hockey player. Rajput was part of the
gold medal winning teams in 1948 London and 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
5. Which among the following countries ranks first in terms of per capita emission of carbon dioxide?
Qatar
Qatar with per capita emissions of 10.94 metric tonnes ranks first, followed by Trinidad and Tobago
(10.30 metric tonnes) and Kuwait (9.34 metric tonnes).
6. Which among the following drugs is popularly known as meow meow?
Mephedron
Mephedrone, also known as 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC) or 4-methylephedrone, is a synthetic
stimulant drug of the amphetamine and cathinone classes. It is popularly called by name M-CAT and
meow meow.
7. The Operation Ice Bridge, is the largest airborne survey of Earths polar ice ever flown was launched
by ____?
NASA
The Operation Ice Bridge is a six-year NASA mission. It is the largest airborne survey of Earths polar
ice ever flown. It will yield an unprecedented three-dimensional view of Arctic and Antarctic ice sheets,
ice shelves and sea ice.
8. The PACE is the flagship program between the U.S. and India to work jointly on which of the
following?
Energy security and clean energy
PACE or Partnership to Advance Clean Energy was launched in 2009 under India-US energy dialogue to
strengthen energy co-operation between both the countries. PACE focuses on accelerating the
transition to high-performing, low emissions, and energy-secure economies. It aims to bolster joint
efforts to demonstrate the viability of existing clean energy technologies as well as identify new
technologies that can increase energy access and security.
9. The Iguazu Falls, which is listed in seven wonders of nature, is located in which country?
Argentina

Iguazu Falls, in Iguazu River, are one of the worlds largest waterfalls. They extend over 2,700 m
(nearly 2 miles) in a semi-circular shape. Iguazu Falls are on the border between the Brazilian state of
Paran and the Argentine province of Misiones
10. Who among the following has been appointed as the new chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi in
January 2015?
Shekhar Sen
Padma Shri awardee music composer-singer-lyricist and actor Shekhar Sen, has been appointed
Chairman of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi for a period of five years. This post was vacant
since October 2014, after then Chairman Leela Samson had resigned. Sen is known for his devotional
albums as well as mono act musical plays, such as Tulsi, Kabeer, Vivekananda, Sanmanti, Saahab and
Soordas. He has also undertaken research- oriented musical programmes, such as Dushyant Ne Kaha
Tha, Madhya Yugeen Kaavya, Pakistan Ka Hindi Kavya, Meera Se Mahadevi Tak.

GK & Current Affairs: January 29, 31, 2015


1. Which among the following cities is nick named as Mile High City?
Denver
Denver, the capital of the American state of Colorado, has the nickname the Mile High City because, at
one of its points, it measures 5,280 feet (1,609 m) in height. This measurement is exactly one mile
above sea level.
2. Which among the following countries is the venue for ICC Cricket World Cup-2019?
England
England and Wales will host the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 from 30 May to 15 July 2019. This will be
the twelfth Cricket World Cup competition, and the fifth time it will be held in England and Wales.
3. Who among the following has been appointed as new chairman of the African Union?
Robert Mugabe
Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe has been appointed as new chairman of the 54-nations African
Union. Mugabe succeeds Mauritanias president Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz.
4. In which of the following years, Project Crocodile was launched in India?
1975
Project Crocodile was launched in 1975 with support from the United Nations Development Programme
and Food and Agriculture Organisation. The project included an intensive captive rearing and breeding
program intended to restock depleted Gharial habitats.
5. The Kanjli wetland, one of the Ramsar site is located in which of the following states?
Punjab
Kanjli wetland is in Punjab. It was enlisted among Ramsar sites in 2002 as per the Ramsar convention.
6. Zhelyu Zhelev, who passed away recently, was the first democratically elected president of which
country?
Bulgaria
Zhelyu Zhelev was the first democratically elected president of Bulgaria. He won the nationwide
presidential vote in 1992 and served until 1997.
7. The 24th African Union heads of state summit was recently kicked off in _____?
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The 24th African Union Summit was commenced in Ethiopias capital Addis Ababa. The summit
focused on womens empowerment as an entry point to achieve Africas Agenda 2063 vision of socio
economic renaissance. The theme of this years summit is 2015 Year of Womens Empowerment and
Development towards Africas Agenda 2063.
8. Who among the following is the head of the panel formed RBI to look into parameters for urban cooperative banks, recently?
R Gandhi
The Reserve Bank of India has set up a panel under the chairmanship of R Gandhi, Deputy Governor,
RBI to look into various parameters of urban co-operative banks. The panel entrusted to re-examine
and recommend an appropriate set of businesses, size, conversion criteria and licensing terms for the
urban cooperative banking sector.
9. Which among the following airports has become the worlds busiest airport for international traffic?
Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport has overtaken Londons Heathrow airport as the worlds busiest airport for
international traffic. Dubai airport reported a total of 70.4 million passengers in 2014, up in 6.1% over
the previous year. Whereas Heathrow airport reported around 68.1 million international passengers in
2014.
10. The Yangko dance is a traditional folk dance of which one of the following countries?
China
The Yangko dance is a traditional folk dance of the China. It is originated from China and happens to be
popular part of their culture. It involves swaying of the body to certain rhythms. The dance has a one
thousand year history in China and is usually performed in the Lantern Festival.

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