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FEB, 2022 ISS UE - 24 ` 100/-
PASSAGE 1: percent in suggestions laid out in

Finance Minister Nirmala real terms in Economic the document.
Sitharaman on January 31 2021-22? Advisor of (c) The first Economic
presented the Economic (a) 7.3 per cent India. Survey was presented in
Survey that details the state (b) 8.3 per cent 1950-51
of the economy ahead of the (d) Until 1964, the
Government’s Budget for the fiscal (c) 9.2 per cent
document would be
year beginning April 1, 2022. (d) 9.8 per
presented along with
Ahead of the Union Budget cent
the Budget.
2022-23, Indian industry
has urged the government to
4. Who is the current Chief
offer incentives for creating
Economic Advisor of
jobs, including special sops
India?
under the Production Linked
Incentive (PLI) schemes already (a) Arvind Subramanian
announced. (b) Shaktikanta Das
The Economic Survey 2021- (c) V Anantha
22 has stressed on the need Nageswaran
for a simplified procedure 2. Which of the following is
(d) Krishnamurthy V.
for voluntary liquidation of TRUE about the Economic (c) Once prepared, the Subramanian
companies.“There is a case for Survey of India? Survey is approved by
simplifying the problems in the (a) The Economic Survey is the Finance Minister
Voluntary Liquidation process, 5. Which of the following was
a report the government (d) All of the above
to improve ease of exit for the Central theme for this
presents on the state of
business,” the Survey said. year’s Economic Survey?
the economy in the past 3. Which of the following
“Apart from simplifying the one year. (a) Agile Approach
is NOT TRUE about the
issues in the various steps in the (b) The document is (b) Saving Lives and
Economic Survey of India?
processes, there is a need for prepared by the Livelihoods
the creation of a single window (a) The government is
Economic Division constitutionally bound (c) Enable Markets,
for the entire process,” it added. Promote ‘Pro-Business’
of the Department to present the Economic
1. According to the Economic of Economic Affairs (d) Shifting Gears
Survey.
Survey of India 2022, (DEA) under the
the Indian economy is (b) If the government so
guidance of the Chief
estimated to grow by what chooses, it can reject all
1. (c) 9.2 per cent of Economic Affairs (DEA) the recommendations that are jobs, including special sops
Indian economy estimated under the guidance of the CEA, made in it. If the government under the Production Linked
to grow by 9.2 percent in real currently Dr Krishnamurthy so chooses, it can reject all Incentive (PLI) schemes already
terms in 2021-22 (as per first Subramanian. Once prepared, suggestions laid out in the announced.
advanced estimates) subsequent the Survey is approved by the document. But while the Centre 5. (a) Agile Approach
to a contraction of 7.3 percent in Finance Minister. The first is not obliged to present the The Survey talks in detail about
2020-21. GDP projected to grow Economic Survey was presented Survey at all, it is tabled because the ‘Agile’ approach that the
by 8- 8.5 percent in real terms in in 1950-51. Until 1964, the of the significance it holds. government has been adopting,
2022-23. document would be presented 4. (c) V Anantha which basically implies tracking
2. (d) All of the above along with the Budget. Nageswaran closely the high frequency
The Economic Survey is a report 3. (a) The government is CEA Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran economic indicators and
the government presents on the constitutionally bound will address a press conference tweaking the government’s
state of the economy in the past to present the Economic today at 3:45 p.m. in New Delhi. response on a real time basis as
one year, the key challenges it Survey. Ahead of the Union Budget the crisis situation unfolds,” said
anticipates, and their possible The government is not 2022-23, Indian industry Rajani Sinha, Chief Economist
solutions. The document is constitutionally bound to present has urged the government to & National Director – Research,
prepared by the Economic the Economic Survey or to follow offer incentives for creating Knight Frank India.
Division of the Department
Bhopal 7676564400 | Indore 9109108422 | Jabalpur 9109108423 | Jodhpur 9109108419 | Raipur 9109108417 | Bilaspur 9109108416 | Ranchi 9109108418 E: support@toprankers.com
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3 The CLAT Post • February 2022
PASSAGE(Q.6-Q.10):
T wo new Ramsar sites —[1]

in Gujarat and Bakhira
wildlife sanctuary in Uttar
Pradesh — were announced on
the occasion of World Wetlands
Day at Sultanpur national park
in Gurgaon Wednesday. Forest
and Wildlife Department officials
said India has a network of 49
such sites, the highest in South
Asia, covering 10,93,636 hectares.
The Union Environment
Ministry had notified the
Sultanpur National Park and
Bhindawas wildlife sanctuary
in Jhajjar as Ramsar sites — the
first two such sites in Haryana
— in August 2021. Ramsar sites
are wetlands of international
We can leverage this to promote 8. Which of the following is (a) Keoladeo National Park,
importance as per UNESCO’s [2]
tourism.” NOT TRUE with regards to Rajasthan
Convention on Wetlands held in
Wetlands in India? (b) Loktak Lake, Manipur
Ramsar, Iran. Officials said the 6. Which of the following will
certification brings visibility to (a) Ramsar Convention (c) Chilika Lake, Orissa
replace [1] in the above
ecologically sensitive wetlands came into force in India
passage? (d) Both a and b
and helps in conservation. in 1975.
(a) Khijadiya wildlife
Speaking at the programme (b) There are currently 49
Sanctuary 10. Which of the following
on World Wetlands Day at Ramsar sites in India.
(b) Periyar Wildlife has been declared India’s
Sultanpur National Park, (c) Uttar Pradesh has the first “other effective
Haryana Chief Minister Sanctuary
most number of Ramsar area-based conservation
Manohar Lal Khattar announced (c) Koyna Wildlife Sites in India. measures” (OECM) site
that the state will initiate an Sanctuary
(d) Chilika Lake (Orissa) on the occasion of World
ecotourism policy focusing on (d) Karakoram Wildlife and Keoladeo National Wetlands Day 2022?
homestays to promote tourism in Sanctuary Park (Rajasthan) were (a) The Aravalli
villages around the two Ramsar
recognized as the first Biodiversity Park
sites of Haryana. Khattar said,
7. Which of the following will Ramsar Sites of India
“Every year, 50,000 birds of (b) Nilgiri Biodiversity
more than 100 species migrate Reserve
passage? 9. Which of the following
to Sultanpur. Similarly, 40,000 (c) Sunderbans Biosphere
birds of more than 80 species (a) 1951 (b) 1962 Ramsar sites in India
Reserve
come to Bhindawas every year. (c) 1971 (d) 1977 are listed in Montreaux
More than 100 home species of Record? (d) Nanda Devi Biosphere
birds are found in Bhindawas. Reserve
6. (a) Khijadiya wildlife UNESCO’s 1971 Convention on convention came into force in Ramsar sites in 2002.
Sanctuary Wetlands held in Ramsar, Iran. 1975. In India, Ramsar Site came 10. (a) The Aravalli Biodiversity
Two new Ramsar sites — Officials said the certification into force in 1982. Uttar Pradesh Park
Khijadiya wildlife Sanctuary in brings visibility to ecologically has the most number of Ramsar The Aravalli Biodiversity Park
Gujarat and Bakhira wildlife sensitive wetlands and helps in Sites in India. It has 10 Indian was declared India’s first “other
sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh conservation. Wetlands. effective area-based conservation
— were announced on the 8. (a) Ramsar Convention 9. (d) Both a and b measures” (OECM) site on the
occasion of World Wetlands Day came into force in India in Keoladeo National Park, occasion of World Wetlands Day.
at Sultanpur national park in 1975. Rajasthan and Loktak Lake, The announcement was made by
Gurgaon Wednesday. Ramsar Convention is an Manipur are enlisted in the officials of the Union ministry of
7 (c) 1971 international treaty that Montreux record from India. The environment, forest and climate
Ramsar sites are wetlands of preserves the sites which are Chilka lake has been removed change on Wednesday.
international importance as per important environmentally. This from the Montreaux Record of
PASSAGE(Q.11-Q.15):
F inance Minister Nirmala

Sitharaman, in her Budget
2022 speech on Tuesday
(February 1), announced a [1]
tax on income from virtual
digital assets. She said that
there has been a phenomenal
rise in such transactions and
the magnitude and frequency
of these transactions have made
it imperative to provide for a
specific tax regime.
She further clarified that no
deduction in respect of any
expenditure or allowance shall
be allowed while computing
such income except the cost
of acquisition. Additionally,
she also proposed a TDS on
payment made in relation to (b) 25 per cent (c) Article 117 Moraraji Desai holds
the transfer of virtual digital (c) 20 per cent (d) Article 118 the record of presenting
assets at [2] above a monetary the most number of
(d) 15 per cent
threshold. budgets in the history of
14. Which of the following is
In short, the finance minister the country
12. Which of the following NOT TRUE about budget
has proposed a flat [1] tax on provision in India? (d) Till 2015, railway
will launch the Digital
digital asset gains regardless budget and Union
Currency in India? (a) After Independence,
of any long-term or short- Budget were presented
(a) State Bank of India India’s first Finance
term holding by the investor. separately, the Railway
Minister, Shri
Additionally, if a virtual digital (b) Reserve Bank of India budget was merged in
Shanmukham Chetty,
asset investor incurs losses (c) Ministry of Finance the Union Budget in
presented the first
during the transaction, it can’t 2015 and presented
(d) Indian Banks budget of independent
be set off against any other together.
Associations India on 26th
income. The gifting of virtual
digital assets has also been November, 1947.
15.Which of the following will
proposed to be taxed in the 13. Which of the following (b) The genesis of the
hands of the recipient. Articles in the Constitution central Budget in India
passage?
of India provides for goes back to 1860 when
11. Which of the following will Budget? it was first introduced (a) 1 per cent
be replaced by [1] in the (a) Article 110 by then finance minister (b) 2 per cent
above passage? James Wilson.
(b) Article 112 (c) 3 per cent
(a) 30 per cent (c) Former Prime Minister (d) 5 per cent
11. (a) 30 per cent 12. (b) Reserve Bank of India government for that particular the Union Budget in 2017 and
Finance Minister Nirmala The Finance Minister clarified year. presented together.
Sitharaman, in her Budget 2022 that what the RBI will issue in 14. (d) Till 2015, railway budget 15. (a) 1 per cent
speech on Tuesday (February the next fiscal will be the digital and Union Budget were She further clarified that no
1), announced a 30 per cent currency. presented separately, the deduction in respect of any
tax on income from virtual This will be called Digital Rupee. Railway budget was merged in expenditure or allowance shall
digital assets. She said that there 13. (b) Article 112 the Union Budget in 2015 and be allowed while computing
has been a phenomenal rise According to Article 112 of the presented together. such income except the cost of
in such transactions and the Indian Constitution, the Union Till 2017, railway budget and acquisition. Additionally, she
magnitude and frequency of Budget of a year, also referred to Union Budget were presented also proposed a TDS on payment
these transactions have made as the annual financial statement, separately. After being presented made in relation to the transfer
it imperative to provide for a is a statement of the estimated separately for 92 years, the of virtual digital assets at 1 per
specific tax regime. receipts and expenditure of the Railway budget was merged in cent above a monetary threshold.
18. Which of the following

Fundamental Rights in
India?
(a) The Fundamental Rights
are enshrined in Part III
of the Constitution.
(b) It is described as the
Magna Carta of India.
(c) Right to property was
deleted from the list of
Fundamental Rights by
the 42th Amendment
Act, 1978.
(d) The rights can be
suspended during the
operation of a National
PASSAGE(Q.16-Q.20): state shall ensure that there is (c) Article 27(1) Emergency except the
A fter six students were no interference or obstacle to

(d) Article 28(1) rights guaranteed by
banned from entering a exercise this freedom. Articles 20 and 21.
college in Karnataka’s Udupi Over the years, the Supreme 17. Which of the following
district for wearing a hijab last Court has evolved a practical is TRUE about the 19. Which of the following will
month, the row over whether test of sorts to determine what Constitutional provisions replace [2] in the above
educational institutions can religious practices can be related to Freedom of passage?
impose a strict dress code that constitutionally protected and Religion in India? (a) 1951
could interfere with rights of what can be ignored. In [2], (b) 1954
(a) It covers religious beliefs
students has spilled to other the Supreme Court held in the
as well as religious (c) 1961
colleges in the state. The issue Shirur Mutt case that the term
practices. (d) 1978
throws up legal questions on “religion” will cover all rituals
reading the freedom of religion and practices “integral” to a (b) This right is available to
and whether the right to wear religion. The test to determine citizens as well as non- 20. Which of the following is
a hijab is constitutionally what is integral is termed the citizens. NOT one of the reasonable
protected. “essential religious practices” (c) The State is permitted restriction to the freedom
Article [1] of the Constitution test. to regulate or restrict of religion in India?
guarantees the “freedom any economic, financial, (a) Public Order
16. Which of the following will political or other secular
of conscience and the right (b) Morality
replace [1] in the above activity associated with
freely to profess, practise and
passage? religious practice. (c) Health
propagate religion”. It is a right
that guarantees a negative (a) Article 25(1) (d) All of the above (d) Security of the State
liberty — which means that the (b) Article 26(1)
16. (a) Article 25(1) (doctrines) as well as religious religious practice. in the Shirur Mutt case that the
Article 25(1) of the Constitution practices (rituals). 18. (c)Right to property was term “religion” will cover all
guarantees the “freedom Moreover, these rights are deleted from the list of rituals and practices “integral” to
of conscience and the right available to all persons—citizens Fundamental Rights by the a religion. The test to determine
freely to profess, practise and as well as non-citizens. 42th Amendment Act, 1978. what is integral is termed the
propagate religion”. It is a right These rights are subject to Originally the constitution also “essential religious practices” test.
that guarantees a negative public order, morality, health included Right to property 20. (c) Security of the State
liberty — which means that the and other provisions relating to (Article 31). However, it It has reasonable restriction
state shall ensure that there is fundamental rights. was deleted from the list of like all fundamental rights, the
no interference or obstacle to The State is permitted to regulate Fundamental Rights by the 44th state can restrict the right for
exercise this freedom. or restrict any economic, Amendment Act, 1978. grounds of public order, decency,
17. (d) All of the above financial, political or other 19. (b) 1954 morality, health and other state
Article 25 covers religious beliefs secular activity associated with In 1954, the Supreme Court held interests.
PASSAGE(Q.21-Q.25): leased to China?
P akistan on Friday signed a

new agreement with China
to begin the second phase of the

(a) Hambantota Port
(b) Chittagong Port
(c) Port of Aden
USD 60 billion China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC) (d) Port of Sokhna
as Prime Minister Imran
Khan showered praise on the 24. Which of the following is
controversial projects, saying India’s objection to CPEC?
it has strategic significance
for both the countries and (a) China is building roads
delivering tangible benefits to and infrastructure in
the people. the disputed territory of
Gilgit-Balistan, which is
Khan, who arrived in China
under Pakistan’s control
on Thursday on a four-day
but which India claims
visit to attend the opening
as a part of Jammu and
ceremony of the 2020 Beijing
Winter Olympics and meet the Kashmir.
zones, and initiate, plan, for China to access the
top Chinese leadership, held a execute and monitor projects, Middle East and Africa (b) If CPEC project
virtual meeting with He Lifeng, both in public as well as private from Gwadar Port, gets implemented
the Chairman of China’s apex sector, Pakistan’s state-run enabling China to access successfully, this would
planning body — the National Associated Press of Pakistan the Indian Ocean. hamper India’s strategic
Development and Reform news agency reported. interests in the South
(c) CPEC is a part of the
Commission (NDRC) on Asian region.
21. Which of the following Belt and Road Initiative.
Friday to discuss the expansion (c) CPEC can aid Pakistan’s
of Chinese investments in is TRUE about China (d) All of the above
legitimacy in the
Pakistan. Pakistan Economic Kashmir dispute.
Pakistan’s State Minister Corridor? 22. One Belt and Road initiative
(d) All of the above
and Chairman of Board of (a) It is a 3,000-km long was adopted by China in
Investment Muhammad route of infrastructure which of the following
Azfar Ahsan and He signed projects connecting years? 25. China-Pakistan Economic
the Framework Agreement China’s northwest Corridor was launched
(a) 2012 (b) 2013
on Industrial Cooperation Xinjiang Uygur in which of the following
(c) 2014 (d) 2015 years?
which aims to attract Foreign Autonomous Region
Direct Investment (FDI), and the Gwadar Port in (a) 2013 (b) 2015
promote industrialisation and Pakistan. 23. Which of the following
(c) 2017 (d) 2019
development of economic Ports of Sri Lanka has been
(b) It will pave the way
21. (d) All of the above The Belt and Road Initiative the port. aid Pakistan’s legitimacy in
CPEC is a 3,000-km long (BRI, or B&R), formerly 24. (d) All of the above the Kashmir dispute. China’s
route of infrastructure projects known as One Belt One Road India has not supported increasing footprints in
connecting China’s northwest or OBOR for short, is a global OBOR. China’s insistence on the South Asian region is
Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous infrastructure development establishing the CPEC project detrimental to India’s strategic
Region and the Gwadar Port strategy adopted by the Chinese through PoK is seen by India hold e.g. construction of the
in the western province of government in 2013 to invest as infringing its sovereignty. Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka
Balochistan in Pakistan. It will in nearly 70 countries and China is building roads and provided China critical strategic
pave the way for China to access international organizations. infrastructure in the disputed location in Indian Ocean.
the Middle East and Africa from 23. (a) Hambantota Port territory of Gilgit-Balistan, 25. (b) 2015
Gwadar Port, enabling China Under the 2017 agreement, Sri which is under Pakistan’s control The project was launched on
to access the Indian Ocean and Lanka Ports Authority created but which India claims as a April 20, 2015 when Chinese
in return China will support Hambantota International Port part of Jammu and Kashmir. If President Xi Jinping and
development projects in Pakistan Group (HIPG), which then CPEC project gets implemented Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz
to overcome the latter’s energy became a joint venture after successfully, this would hamper Sharif signed 51 agreements
crises and stabilising its faltering China Merchant Ports bought India’s strategic interests in the and Memorandums of
economy. an 85 per cent stake in HIPG as South Asian region. It will serve Understanding valued at $46
22. (b) 2013 part of the Chinese company’s Beijing’s strategic ambition billion.
US$1.12 billion investment into to encircle India. CPEC can
of India.
(b) The Delimitation
Commission is
appointed by the
President of India and
works in collaboration
with the Election
Commission of India.
(c) The first Delimitation
Commission Act was
enacted in 2002.
(d) There was no
delimitation after
the 1981 and 1991
Censuses.
PASSAGE(Q.26-Q.30): in the Hindu Jammu-Samba- has proposed to
T he J&K Delimitation Kathua belt. reserve seven seats for

Scheduled Castes (SCs) 29.Who among the following is
Commission has changed Seventeen constituencies have
Hindus. NOT a part of composition
the complexion of most of been redrawn in the Jammu
of Delimitation
the 90 Assembly seats, while province while 11 have been (d) All of the above Commission?
reconfiguring and renaming 28 reconfigured in the Kashmir
new Assembly constituencies and division. Similarly, nine names of (a) Retired Supreme Court
27.Which of the following judge
deleting 19 Assembly segments Assembly constituencies in the articles of the Constitution
in its interim report. Besides, it Jammu division have vanished (b) Chief Election
of India provides for
has proposed to redraw all the due to the reconfiguration and Commissioner
Delimitation Commission?
five Lok Sabha seats. 10 names disappear from the (c) Respective
Kashmir division. (a) Article 82
The interim report, shared with State Election
the associate members two days (b) Article 90 Commissioners.
ago, suggested that the Kashmir (c) Article 92 (d) Chief Justice of India
is/are the major
division will get an additional (d) Article 94
recommendations of the
seat in Kupwara, while the
Jammu division will have one Delimitation Commission? 30.The total number of seats
additional seat in Kathua district, (a) The interim report 28.Which of the following in State Assemblies and
one in Samba, one in Doda, one proposes an increase of is NOT TRUE about Parliament is decided based
in Rajouri, one in Udhampur and six seats for the Jammu Delimitation Commission on which of the following
one in Kishtwar. province. in India? year’s census?
Of the six seats, three Assembly (b) An increase of one (a) The delimitation (a) 1961 (b) 1971
segments are from the Muslim- seat in the Kashmir commission is an (c) 1991 (d) 2001
majority Chenab Valley and Pir province. independent body
Panjal valleys, while four are under the Constitution
(c) The Commission
26. (d) All of the above The Commission has suggested Census. with the Election Commission of
The Commission has, as per the redrawing of boundaries 28. (c) The first Delimitation India.
mandate granted under the J&K of most of the Assembly Commission Act was enacted in Composition:
Reorganisation Act, 2019, added segments in J&K. It has named 2002. Retired Supreme Court judge
seven assembly constituencies and reconfigured 28 new The Delimitation Commission Chief Election Commissioner
to J&K, increasing its strength constituencies and deleted 19 Act was enacted in 1952. Respective State Election
from 87 to 90. The interim report assembly segments. Delimitation Commissions had Commissioners.
proposes an increase of six seats 27. (a) Article 82 been set up four times — 1952, 30. (b) 1971
for the Jammu province, taking Under Article 82, the Parliament 1963, 1973 and 2002 under the In 2002-08, Delimitation was
the number of constituencies enacts a Delimitation Act after Acts of 1952, 1962, 1972 and done based on the 2001 census,
to 43, and an increase of one every Census. 2002. but the total number of seats in
seat in the Kashmir province, Under Article 170, 29. (d) Chief Justice of India the Assemblies and Parliament
taking the seat strength to States also get divided into The Delimitation Commission decided as per the 1971 Census
47, almost bringing the two territorial constituencies as per is appointed by the President of was not changed.
regions at par with each other. Delimitation Act after every India and works in collaboration
PASSAGE(Q.31-Q.35):
A n overwhelming majority
of Iranian legislators have
set to define strict conditions
for a return to the country’s
2015 nuclear deal as an
agreement with world powers
in Vienna appears close.
In a statement read out on
Sunday, 250 legislators in the
290-member parliament – in
control of conservatives and
hardliners since 2020 – called
on President [1] to adhere to
their conditions in restoring
the Joint Comprehensive Plan
of Action (JCPOA).
They said the “cruel and negotiations from 2013 (a) Beginning in May (a) Ebrahim Raisi
terrorist” American and 2015 between Iran 2019, Iran began (b) Hassan Rouhani
government – and its “weak and P5+1. to move away from
(c) Ali Khamenei
and contemptible” followers (b) The JCPOA obliged Iran JCPOA’s constraints
incrementally. (d) Hasan Akhund
France, Germany, and the to accept constraints on
United Kingdom – have shown its uranium enrichment (b) In January 2020,
they are not bound by any program. following the drone 35.Which of the following
agreement over the past few strike on Islamic agency safeguards the
(c) The United States
years, so Iran must learn from Revolutionary Guard purpose of peaceful use
announced its
the experience and set clear Corps commander Gen. of Atomic energy and that
withdrawal from the
red lines. Qasem Soleiman, Iran it is not used for military
Joint Comprehensive
announced that it would purposes?
31. P5+1 was formed in which Plan of Action
(JCPOA), on May 8, no longer observe the (a) International Atomic
of the following years? JCPOA’s restraints. Energy Agency
2018.
(a) 2001 (b) 2006 (c) Iran is raising uranium (b) International Energy
(d) JCPOA was entered
(c) 2015 (d) 2018 under the US enrichment levels from Association
Presidency of Donald 3.67% to 4.5%. (c) International Solar
32. Which of the following Trump. (d) All of the above Alliance
is NOT TRUE about the (d) United Nations Security
JCPOA? 33. Which of the following is 34. Which of the following will Council
(a) The JCPOA was the TRUE about Iran’s policy of replace [1] in the above
result of prolonged Maximum Resistance? questions?
31. (b) 2006 backchannel talks between the research and development on 2021 presidential election. He
The “P5+1” was formed in 2006 US (President Barack Obama) advanced centrifuges; resuming succeeded Hassan Rouhani, who
when the United States, Russia and Iran, quietly brokered by enrichment at Fordow, and served 8 years in office from 2013
and China joined France, Britain Oman, in an attempt to repair violating limits on the number of to 2021.
and Germany to negotiate an the accumulated mistrust since centrifuges in use. 35. (a) International Atomic
agreement concerning Iran’s the 1979 Islamic revolution In January 2020, following Energy Agency
nuclear program, with the 33. (d) All of the above the drone strike on Islamic International Atomic Energy
goal of preventing Iran from Beginning in May 2019, Revolutionary Guard Corps Agency (IAEA), autonomous
obtaining a nuclear weapon. The Iran began to move away commander Gen. Qasem intergovernmental organization
P5+1 includes the United States, from JCPOA’s constraints Soleiman, Iran announced that dedicated to increasing the
Russia, China, France, Britain incrementally: exceeding the it would no longer observe the contribution of atomic energy
and Germany. ceilings of 300kg on low- JCPOA’s restraints. to the world’s peace and well-
32. (d) JCPOA was entered under enriched uranium and 130 34. (a) Ebrahim Raisi being and ensuring that agency
the US Presidency of Donald MT on heavy-water; raising The current president of Iran is assistance is not used for military
Trump. enrichment levels from Ebrahim Raisi, who assumed purposes.
It happened due to the 3.67% to 4.5%; stepping up office on 3 August 2021, after the
PASSAGE(Q.36-Q.40): 36. Which of the following is following years?
A sserting that the issuance TRUE? (a) 2005 (b) 2007 40. Which of the following is
of sovereign green bonds (a) Green bonds are issued NOT TRUE about Green
(c) 2009 (d) 2011
is part of the government’s by companies, countries Bonds?
overall borrowing programme, and multilateral (a) A green bond is a debt
Economic Affairs Secretary 38. Who among the following
organisations to instrument.
Ajay Seth has said these launched the First green
exclusively fund projects (b) According to RBI, the
rupee-denominated papers bond?
that have positive cost of issuing green
will have long tenure to suit environmental or (a) World Bank
bonds has generally
the requirement of green climate benefits. (b) International Monetary remained higher than
infrastructure projects. Fund
(b) The projects can include other bonds in India.
Finance Minister Nirmala renewable energy, clean (c) European Investment (c) Green bonds enhance
Sitharaman in her Budget speech transportation and Bank an issuer’s reputation, as
announced that the government green buildings, among (d) Asian Development it helps in showcasing
proposes to issue sovereign green others. Bank their commitment
bonds to mobilise resources
for green infrastructure. “The (c) By the end of 2020, 24 towards sustainable
proceeds will be deployed in national governments 39.India has announced its development.
public sector projects which help had issued Sovereign commitment to achieve (d) The Reserve Bank of
in reducing the carbon intensity Green, Social and net zero carbon neutrality India has put in place
of the economy,” she said. Mr. Sustainability bonds. by which of the following disclosure norms for
Seth said this was part of the (d) All of the above year? issuance and listing of
overall borrowing for the next (a) 2050 (b) 2060 green bonds.
financial year. 37. The first green bond was (c) 2070 (d) 2075
issued in which of the
36. (d) All of the above governments had issued 38. (c) European Investment with India’s commitment to
Sovereign Green, Social and Bank achieving net-zero carbon
Green bonds are issued by Sustainability bonds. The first green bond was emissions by 2070.
companies, countries and 37. (b) 2007 issued in 2007 by the European 40. (d) The Reserve Bank of India
multilateral organisations to The first green bond was Investment Bank, the EU’s has put in place disclosure
exclusively fund projects that issued in 2007 by the European lending arm. This was followed norms for issuance and listing
have positive environmental or Investment Bank, the EU’s a year later by the World Bank. of green bonds.
climate benefits. lending arm. This was followed Since then, many governments The Securities and Exchange
The projects can include a year later by the World Bank. and corporations have entered Board of India (SEBI) has put
renewable energy, clean Since then, many governments the market to finance green in place disclosure norms for
transportation and green and corporations have entered projects. issuance and listing of green
buildings, among others. the market to finance green 39. (c) 2070 bonds.
By the end of 2020, 24 national projects. The announcement is in sync
PASSAGE(Q.41-Q.45):
E lon Musk’s [1] has lost

dozens of satellites that were
caught in a geomagnetic storm
a day after they were launched
on February 3. Up to 40 of the
49 satellites were impacted,
[1] said, causing them to fall
from orbit before they could be
commissioned.
“(Rocket) Falcon 9’s second
stage deployed the satellites
into their intended orbit, with
a perigee of approximately
210 km above Earth, and each
satellite achieved controlled
flight. Unfortunately, the
satellites deployed on Thursday
(February 3) were significantly
impacted by a geomagnetic
storm on February 4,” Starlink
said in a statement on Tuesday.
The satellites were designed
to burn up on reentry into the
Earth’s atmosphere, and did not
create debris in space. However,
the loss of 40 satellites — most
of a launch batch — in a single (a) Solar storms are (a) Tesla can cover roughly a
solar event has been described magnetic plasma ejected (b) SpaceX third of the planet.
as “unheard of ” and “huge”. at great speed from the (c) Geostationary orbit is
(c) Blue Origin
solar surface. located directly above
41. Which of the following will (d) Virgin galactic
(b) They occur during the the Equator.
replace [1] in the above release of magnetic (d) All of the above
passage? energy associated with 44. Which of the following
(a) Starlink sunspots. is TRUE about Space
Internet? 45. Low Earth Orbit extends to
(b) Onelink (c) It can last for a few how much km above the
minutes or hours. (a) Generally, the Space-
(c) Project Kulper Earth’s Surface?
based Internet systems
(d) Nurealink (d) All of the above (a) 1500 km
use satellites in
geostationary orbit. (b) 2000 km
42. Which of the following is 43. [1] is a project of which of
(b) The signals from one (c) 2500 km
TRUE about Solar Storm? the following companies?
geostationary satellite (d) 3000 km
41. (a) Starlink from the solar surface. They number thousands. cover the entire Earth.
Elon Musk’s Starlink has lost occur during the release of 44. (d) All of the above 45. (b) 2000 km
dozens of satellites that were magnetic energy associated Most of the existing space-based The LEO extends up to 2,000 km
caught in a geomagnetic storm with sunspots (‘dark’ regions Internet systems use satellites in above the Earth’s surface. The
a day after they were launched on the Sun that are cooler than geostationary orbit. presence of satellite at a lower
on February 3. Up to 40 of the the surrounding photosphere), Geostationary orbit is located height from the Earth’s surface,
49 satellites were impacted, and can last for a few minutes or at a height of 35,786 km over will help to bring the lag down
Starlink said, causing them to fall hours. the Earth’s surface, directly to 20-30 milliseconds, roughly
from orbit before they could be 43. (b) SpaceX above the Equator. The signals the time it takes for terrestrial
commissioned. Starlink is a SpaceX project from one geostationary satellite systems to transfer data.
42. (d) All of the above to build a broadband network can cover roughly a third of
Solar storms are magnetic with a cluster of orbiting the planet — and three to four
plasma ejected at great speed spacecraft that could eventually satellites would be enough to
PASSAGE(Q.46-Q.50): Prime Minister Narendra Modi (a) National Highway 49. Which of the following is
A tal Tunnel, the [1] km-long dedicated this tunnel to the Infrastructure Authority TRUE about Atal Tunnel?
tunnel, has been certified nation on October 3, 2020. Atal of India The Atal tunnel is the
as the longest highway tunnel Tunnel, constructed on the (b) Border Road first step towards all-year
above 10,000 feet by the World [2] highway, reduces the road Organisation connectivity to Ladakh.
Book of Records UK, the distance between [2] by 46 km
and travel time by 5 hours. This (c) National Highways The tunnel provides a
Ministry of Defence was quoted and Infrastructure strategic advantage to the
as saying by news agency ANI. tunnel has been built in the Pir
Panjal range of Himalayas at an Development country’s armed forces
The World Book of Records UK
altitude of 3,000 metres or 10,000 Corporation by providing year-long
is an organisation that identifies
feet from the mean sea level. (d) None of the above connectivity to border
and verifies extraordinary
areas.
records globally with authentic
46. Which of the following will
certification. 48. Which of the following will
replace [1] in the above 50. Atal Tunnel is located in
“Atal Tunnel has officially been replace [2] in the above
passage? which of the following
certified by World Book of passage?
Records as ‘World’s Longest (a) 7.05 (b) 8.08 mountain range?
(a) Manali-Leh
Highway Tunnel above 10,000 (c) 9.02 (d) 10.11 (a) The Purvanchal Range
(b) Manali-Jammu
Feet’. Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhary, (b) Pir Panjal Range
received the award for (c) Jammu-Leh
47. Which of the following (c) Vindhya Range
achievement for constructing organisations built the Atal (d) Leh-Kargil
this,” the Ministry said. (d) The Aravalli Range
Tunnel?
46. (c) 9.02 built by the Border Roads 48. (a) Manali-Leh the mean sea level.
Atal Tunnel, the 9.02 km-long Organisation (BRO), is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi 49. () Ans –
tunnel, has been certified as the world’s longest highway dedicated this tunnel to the 50. (b) Pir Panjal Range
longest highway tunnel above tunnel and connects Manali to nation on October 3, 2020. Atal Atal Tunnel (also known as
10,000 feet by the World Book Lahaul-Spiti valley. It provides Tunnel, constructed on the Rohtang Tunnel) is a highway
of Records UK, the Ministry of all-weather connectivity to the Manali-Leh highway, reduces the tunnel built under the Rohtang
Defence was quoted as saying by landlocked valley of Lahaul- road distance between Manali Pass in the eastern Pir Panjal
news agency ANI. Spiti, which remains cut-off for and Leh by 46 km and travel range of the Himalayas on
47. (b) Border Road nearly six months in a year as the time by 5 hours. This tunnel has the Leh-Manali Highway in
Rohtang Pass is uually snow- been built in the Pir Panjal range Himachal Pradesh, India.
Organisation bound between November and
The 9.02 km-long-tunnel, of Himalayas at an altitude of
April. 3,000 metres or 10,000 feet from
PASSAGE(Q.51-Q.55): intensified the crackdown on (b) Article 24 (b) United Nations

Railway Protection Force human trafficking with the (c) Article 17 Convention on Rights of
has launched a nationwide increasing number of cases. The Children
(d) Article 18
operation to curb human National Crime Records Bureau (c) United Nations
trafficking. As part of [1], registers about 2,200 cases of Convention on
special teams will be deployed Human Trafficking cases on an 53. Which of the following
Elimination of All
on all long-distance trains/ average each year. States recorded the Highest
form of Discrimination
routes with focus on rescuing 51. Which of the following will number of cases of Human
against Women.
victims, particularly women replace [1] in the above Trafficking in India in
2021? (d) Universal Declaration of
and children, from the clutches passage? Human Rights
of traffickers. (a) Operation AAHT (a) Karnataka
The Railways, which operate (b) Operation ABHT (b) Maharashtra
55. United Nations World
about 21,000 trains across (c) West Bengal
(c) Operation HAHT Day against Trafficking
the country daily, is the most
(d) Operation CTHT (d) Punjab in Person is observed on
reliable mode of transportation
for the traffickers who often which of the following
moved their victims on long- 54. The Blue Heart Campaign days?
52. Which article of the
distance trains. Constitution of India is an international anti- (a) 11 January
The RPF that recued more prohibits trafficking in trafficking program started (b) 30 July
than more than 2,000 women Humans? by which of the following?
(c) 1 August
and children between 2017-21 (a) Article 23 (a) United Nations Office
(d) 30 September
from the clutches of traffickers on Drugs and Crime
51. (a) Operation AAHT or Persons is prohibited under with over 150 cases. The United Nations Office on
Railway Protection Force has the Constitution of India under 54. (a) United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is
launched a nationwide operation Article 23 (1) Drugs and Crime responsible for implementing the
to curb human trafficking. As The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) The Blue Heart Campaign is an protocol.
part of “Operation AAHT”, Act, 1956 (ITPA) is the premier international anti-trafficking 55. (b) 30 July
special teams will be deployed legislation for prevention of program started by the UNODC. 30 July is United Nations World
on all long-distance trains/routes trafficking for commercial sexual Protocol to Prevent, Suppress Day against Trafficking in
with focus on rescuing victims, exploitation. and Punish Trafficking in Persons, established to raise
particularly women and children, 53. (b) Maharashtra Persons, especially Women and awareness of the plight of human
from the clutches of traffickers. The state of Maharashtra had Children in 2000 as a part of trafficking victims, and promote
52. (a) Article 23 the highest number of human the UN Convention Against and protect their rights.
Trafficking in Human Beings trafficking cases in the country Transnational Organised Crime.
PASSAGE(Q.56-Q.60):
K aziranga Naitional Park in

[1], home to the largest-
population of the one-horned
rhinoceros in the world, is
releasing more carbon than it
is absorbing. This is according
to latest research conducted
by a group of scientists
from the Indian Institute of
Tropical Meteorology, Pune,
Maharashtra and Tezpur
University in Tezpur, Assam.
A forests, or trees in a forest,
take up carbon dioxide for the
process of photosynthesis and
release carbon dioxide when
they breathe. If the amount of
carbon dioxide taken up by a
forest is more than the carbon Kaziranga National Park? National Park declared a (b) The decrease in the
dioxide released by it through UNESCO World Heritage photosynthetic activity
respiration, it acts like a carbon (a) It is the single largest
undisturbed and site? of trees during the
sink. monsoon due to
representative area in (a) 1985
Usually, forests absorb more the Brahmaputra Valley increased cloud cover.
carbon than they release, which (b) 1991
floodplain. (c) Cutting down of the
makes them carbon sinks and (c) 1995
(b) As per the figures of large areas of trees
they are globally promoted to (d) 2001
tiger census conducted in the area has led
counter the carbon dioxide
in 2014, Kaziranga had to the decline in the
emissions from different human
the highest population 59. Which of the underlying is absorption capacity of
activities.
of tiger in India. the correct reason which the park.
56. Which of the following will led to Kaziranga becoming (d) Only a and b
(c) National Highway 37
replace [1] in the above a net carbon emitter?
passes through the park
passage? area. (a) The bacteria in the 60. Kaziranga was declared as a
(a) Assam soil at Kaziranga is National Park in which of
(d) The park also has more
releasing more carbon the following years?
(b) Madhya Pradesh than 250 seasonal water
dioxide as they breathe,
(c) Karnataka bodies, besides the (a) 1951
which adds to the
(d) West Bengal Diphlu River running (b) 1969
carbon dioxide being
through it.
emanated by other (c) 1974
57. Which of the following is organisms, including (d) 1985
NOT TRUE regarding the 58. When was the Kaziranga trees.
56. (a) Assam census conducted in 2014, List in 1985, under criteria (ii) that release carbon dioxide as
Kaziranga National Park in Kaziranga had the highest and (iv). The Park is well known they breathe, which adds to the
Assam, home to the largest- population of tiger in India. for its success in conserving the carbon dioxide being emanated
population of the one-horned greater one-horned rhinoceros, by other organisms, including
rhinoceros in the world, is As per the figures of tiger census whose population within the trees.
releasing more carbon than it conducted in 2014, Kaziranga Park has grown from 366 in 1966 60. (c) 1974
is absorbing. This is according had the third highest population to about 1,200 at present. It was declared as a National Park
to latest research conducted in India after Jim Corbett 59. (d) Only a and b in 1974. It has been declared
by a group of scientists from National Park in Uttarakhand The answer to why Kaziranga a tiger reserve since 2007. It is
the Indian Institute of Tropical and Bandipur National Park in National Park releases more recognized as an Important Bird
Meteorology, Pune, Maharashtra Karnataka. carbon than it absorbs lies in Area by BirdLife International.
and Tezpur University in Tezpur, 58. (a) 1985 the unique soil of the deciduous
Assam. The Kaziranga National Park was forest. The soil is home to a
57. (b) As per the figures of tiger inscribed on the World Heritage large population of bacteria
PASSAGE(Q.61-Q.65): statement on Sunday that said Islands is internally
B ritain on Monday firmly China “reaffirms its support self-governing overseas 64. In which of the following
rejected a statement from for [1]’s demand for the full territory of the United years was the issue of
China that affirmed Beijing’s exercise of sovereignty over Kingdom in the South sovereignty over the
support for [1] claim to the the Malvinas Islands,” using Atlantic Ocean. Falkland Islands shifted to
Falkland Islands, as relations the Argentine name for the (b) The capital and major the United Nations?
between London and Asia’s territory. town is Stanley, on East (a) 1955 (b) 1961
leading power remain strained. Falkland. (c) 1964 (d) 1974
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss replace [1] in the above (c) British Royal Air Force
said in a tweet that the United passage? base is located at Mount 65. Which of the following
Kingdom “completely” rejected Pleasant in the Falkland
(a) Spain articles of the Charter
“any questions over sovereignty Island.
(b) Argentina of United Nations states
of the Falklands.”
(d) All of the above the principle of Self-
“The Falklands are part of (c) Brazil
determination?
the British family and we (d) Colombia
will defend their right to 63. In which of the following (a) Article 1
self-determination. China years did the British First (b) Article 6
62. Which of the following Settled to the Falkland
must respect the Falklands’ (c) Article 9
is TRUE about Falkland Island?
sovereignty,” she wrote. (d) Article 11
Island?
Chinese President Xi Jinping (a) 1765 (b) 1770
(a) Falkland Islands,
and his [1] counterpart Alberto (c) 1820 (d) 1833
also called Malvinas
Fernandez issued a joint
61. (b) Argentina self-governing overseas territory out the French settlement about determination is prominently
Britain on Monday firmly of the United Kingdom in the 1767. embodied in Article I of the
rejected a statement from China South Atlantic Ocean. The capital 64. (c) 1964 Charter of the United Nations.
that affirmed Beijing’s support and major town is Stanley, on After World War II (1939-45) Earlier it was explicitly embraced
for Argentina’s claim to the East Falkland. British Royal Air the issue of sovereignty over by US President Woodrow
Falkland Islands, as relations Force base is located at Mount the Falkland Islands shifted to Wilson, by Lenin and others, and
between London and Asia’s Pleasant in the Falkland Island. the United Nations (UN) when, became the guiding principle
leading power remain strained. 63. (a) 1765 in 1964, the islands’ status was for the reconstruction of Europe
62. (d) All of the above The British, in 1765, were the debated by the UN committee on following World War I.
first to settle West Falkland, but decolonization.
Falkland Islands, also called they were driven off in 1770 by 65. (a) Article 1
Malvinas Islands is internally the Spanish, who had bought The principle of self-
PASSAGE(Q.66-Q.70): added ensuring higher women into force in which of the (a) Prakash Singh v. Union
The Parliamentary standing representation will also help following year? of India
committee on home affairs in improving the police- (a) 1976 (b) 1984 (b) Navtej Singh v. Union of
has asked the Centre to advise population ratio. The report India
(c) 1996 (d) 2006
states and Union Territories to asked the Centre to advise the
states and union territories to (c) A.K. Gopalan v. Union
create a road map for ensuring of India
[1] representation of women in assign important challenging 68. Police is a subject matter of
police while expressing anguish duties to women instead of which of the following list (d) National Legal Service
over their underrepresentation. those of inconsequence. It in the 7th Schedule? Authority of India v.
recommended at least one all- (a) Union List Union of India
In a report on police training,
women police station in each
modernisation and reforms (b) State List
district. 70. Malimath Committee
tabled in the Parliament on (c) Concurrent List
Thursday, the committee said reforms in the Criminal
66. Which of the following will (d) Residuary List
that women account for only Justice System of India
10.3% of police. submitted its report in
passage?
69. In which of the following which of the following
The panel said the appointment (a) 15% (b) 20% landmark cases, the years?
of women in police may be
done by creating additional (c) 25% (d) 33% Supreme Court gave (a) 2000 (b) 2003
posts rather than converting seven directives where
(c) 2005 (d) 2008
the vacant posts of men. It 67. Model Police Act came considerable work in police
reform is needed?
66. (d) 33% The committee expressed and as such the principal (2006) gave seven directives
The Parliamentary standing concern that even after 15 years, responsibility of prevention, where considerable work in
committee on home affairs has only 17 States have either enacted detection, registration, police reforms is still needed.
asked the Centre to advise states the Model Police Act, 2006, or investigation and prosecution 70. (b) 2003
and Union Territories to create amended the existing Act. The of crimes lies with the State Malimath Committee (2000) on
a road map for ensuring 33% progress in police reforms has Governments. reforms in the Criminal Justice
representation of women in been slow. 69. (a) Prakash Singh v. Union of System of India (CJS) submitted
police while expressing anguish 68. (b) State List India its report in 2003. It suggested
over their underrepresentation. As per Seventh Schedule, ‘Police’ The Supreme Court in the 158 changes in the CJSI but
67. (d) 2006 and ‘Public Order’ are State landmark Prakash Singh case the recommendations weren’t
subjects under the Constitution, implemented.
PASSAGE(Q.71-Q.75): 71. Which of the following will of our planet. fishing, decarbonising
Prime Minister Narendra replace [1] in the above (b) Over 70 per cent of shipping and reducing
Modi will today address the passage? our planet’s oxygen is plastic pollution.
high-level segment of the One (a) France produced by the ocean. (c) It focus on efforts to
Ocean Summit through a video (b) Germany (c) The Pacific Ocean is the improve governance
message at around 2:30 pm. world’s largest ocean. of the high seas
(c) United Kingdom
The high-level segment of and coordinating
(d) Canada (d) All of the above
this summit will be addressed international scientific
by various other Heads of research.
State and Governments from 72. World Ocean’s Day is 74. Which of the following is
countries like Germany, the celebrated on which of the TRUE about One Ocean
United Kingdom, South Korea, following day? Summit?
75. United Nations Convention on the
Japan, Canada among others. (a) 8th June (a) The goal of the One
Law of the Sea was enacted
One Ocean Summit is being Ocean Summit is to
(b) 8th July in which of the following
organised in [1] from February raise the collective
(c) 10th August years?
9 to 11. Convened by the level of ambition
French president Emmanuel (d) 10th September of the international (a) 1982 (b) 1996
Macron, the three-day summit community on marine (c) 2002 (d) 2005
is focused on efforts to improve 73. Which of the following is issues.
governance of the high seas and TRUE about the Oceans? (b) Commitments will
coordination of international (a) The ocean covers more be made towards
scientific research. than 70% of the surface combating illegal
71. (a) France the United Nations day for 74. (d) All of the above high seas and coordinating
One Ocean Summit is being celebrating the role of the oceans international scientific research.
organised in France from in our everyday life and inspiring The goal of the One Ocean 75. (a) 1982
February 9 to 11. Convened by action to protect the ocean and Summit is to raise the collective The United Nations
the French president Emmanuel sustainably use marine resources. level of ambition of the Convention on the Law of the
Macron, the three-day summit 73. (d) All of the above international community on Sea (UNCLOS), 1982 is an
is focused on efforts to improve The ocean covers more than marine issues. Commitments international agreement that
governance of the high seas and 70% of the surface of our planet. will be made towards combating establishes the legal framework
coordination of international Over 70 per cent of our planet’s illegal fishing, decarbonising for marine and maritime
scientific research. oxygen is produced by the ocean. shipping and reducing plastic activities.
72. (a) 8th June The Pacific Ocean is the world’s pollution. It focus on efforts
June 8th is World Oceans Day, largest ocean. to improve governance of the
PASSAGE(Q.76-Q.80):
C alling for justice for

the 26/11 terror attacks
in Mumbai (2008) and the
Pathankot airbase attack (2016)
for the first time since the
group was formed, Foreign
Ministers of the Australia-
India-Japan said that the Quad
is already cooperating on
sharing intelligence on threats
in the Indo-Pacific region.
The group of ministers,
who held their fourth Quad
ministerial meeting in [1] on
Friday also resolved to speed
up delivery of more than a
billion Covid vaccines to be
manufactured in India, to
hold a special meet on climate Prime Minister Shinzo (a) USA and Australia partnership for the
change this year, and step Abe in 2007. Indo-Pacific called
efforts to ensure maritime (b) USA and India
(b) In November 2017, AUKUS.
security in the region. They (c) India and Australia
announced plans for a Quad India, Japan, the US and (b) As part of this, U.S. will
(d) USA and Japan
summit including PM Modi, Australia gave shape acquire nuclear powered
U.S. President Biden and to the long-pending submarines with help
proposal of setting up 79. In 2020 which of the from the U.K. and the
Australian PM Morrison to be
the Quad. following joined the Australia.
hosted by Japan’s PM Kishida in
Malabar Exercise on India’s
Tokyo in the “first half of 2022”. (c) The Quad is billed as (c) AUKUS will also
request in order to contain
four democracies with involve a new
76. Which of the following will China in the Indo-Pacific
a shared objective to architecture of meetings
replace [1] in the above region?
ensure and support and engagements
passage? a “free, open and (a) Australia between the three
(a) Tokyo prosperous” Indo- (b) Russia countries, as well as
(b) Melbourne Pacific region. (c) Germany cooperation across
(c) Sydney (d) All of the above emerging technologies
(d) Japan
like applied AI,
(d) Kyoto quantum technologies
78. Quad countries engage in a 80. Which of the following is and undersea
77. Which of the following is military exercise ‘Malabar’. untrue about AUKUS? capabilities.
TRUE about QUAD? This was the bilateral (a) Australia, the U.K. and
military exercise between (d) None of the above.
(a) The idea of Quad was the U.S. have announced
which of the following a new trilateral security
first mooted by Japanese countries?
76. (b) Melbourne The idea of Quad was first objective to ensure and support request in order to contain China
The group of ministers, who held mooted by Japanese Prime a “free, open and prosperous” in the Indo-Pacific region.
their fourth Quad ministerial Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007. Indo-Pacific region. 80. (b) As part of this, U.S. will
meeting in Melbourne on Friday However, the idea couldn’t move 78. (b) USA and India acquire nuclear powered
also resolved to speed up delivery ahead with Australia pulling It is a multilateral war-gaming submarines with help from the
of more than a billion Covid out of it, apparently due to naval exercise that was started U.K. and the Australia.
vaccines to be manufactured in Chinese pressure. In November in 1992. It began as a bilateral As part of this, Australia will
India, to hold a special meet on 2017, India, Japan, the US and exercise between the navies of acquire nuclear powered
climate change this year, and Australia gave shape to the long- India and the United States. submarines with help from the
step efforts to ensure maritime pending proposal of setting up 79. (a) Australia U.K. and the U.S.
security in the region. the Quad. The Quad is billed as In 2020 Australia joined the
77. (d) All of the above four democracies with a shared Malabar Exercise on India’s
PASSAGE(Q.81-Q.85):
E arlier this week, a division

bench of the Karnataka
High Court comprising of
Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi
and Justice Krishna S. Dixit
delivered a judgment striking
down major portions of the
Karnataka Police (Amendment)
Act, 2021, a new law that
was introduced by the State
government to ban online
gambling and skill-based
gaming platforms like rummy,
poker and fantasy sports
that involved any wagering
or risking of money on an
uncertain event. murder. 82. Which of the following is gaming for Stakes?
Apart from Karnataka, a TRUE about the Karnataka (a) Andhra Pradesh
81. Which of the following is Police (Amendment Act),
similar law introduced by the (b) Tamil Nadu
the ground on which the 2021?
Tamil Nadu government was
High Court has struck (c) Kerala
struck down by the Madras (a) The law was introduced
down the Amendment? (d) Telangana
High Court in August 2021. by the Karnataka
In September 2021, the Kerala (a) It is in violation of government to ban
High Court had also quashed fundamental rights of online gambling and 84. Freedom of Trade and
a notification issued by the trade and commerce, skill-based gaming Commerce is protected
State government specifically liberty and privacy, platforms. under which of the
banning the game of online speech and expression following Fundamental
(b) The games banned were
rummy when played for stakes. (b) The law is manifestly Rights in India?
games that involved any
Many social activists, arbitrary and irrational wagering or risking of (a) Article 19
government officials and those insofar as it did not money on an uncertain (b) Article 20
in law enforcement believe distinguish between two event for example
that online games like rummy different categories of (c) Article 21
online rummy, poker
and poker are addictive in games, i.e. games of skill and fantasy sports. (d) Article 22
nature; and when played and chance.
with monetary stakes leads to (c) The games banned
(c) The lack of legislative included the games of 85. Who is the current Chief
depression, mounting debts competence of State Minister of Karnataka?
and suicides. Reportedly, there chances.
legislatures to enact laws (a) B. S. Yediyurappa
have been a few instances (d) Only a and b
on online skill-based
where youngsters, faced with (b) Siddaramaiah
games.
mounting debts due to losses in 83. Which of the following was (c) Basavaraj Bommai
online games have committed (d) All of the above
the first State to ban online (d) H. D. Kumaraswamy
other crimes like theft and
81. (d) All of the above lack of legislative competence of and fantasy sports. business to all citizens subject to
The Karnataka High Court State legislatures to enact laws on 83. (d) Telangana it.
struck down the amendments online skill-based games. Telangana, which was the first 85. (c) Basavaraj Bommai
to the Karnataka Police Act on 82. (d) Only a and b State to ban online games for Basavaraj Somappa Bommai is
three major grounds: violation of The law was introduced by the stakes in 2017 has seen a spurt an Indian politician and engineer
fundamental rights of trade and Karnataka government to ban of illegal or underground online who is the current and 23rd
commerce, liberty and privacy, online gambling and skill-based gambling apps. Chief Minister of Karnataka.
speech and expression; the law gaming platforms. The games 84. (d) Article 22 He is Member of Legislative
being manifestly arbitrary and banned were games that involved Article 19 ( 1) (g) of Constitution Assembly in the legislature of
irrational insofar as it did not any wagering or risking of of India provides Right to Karnataka for Shiggaon, from
distinguish between two different money on an uncertain event for practice any profession or to where he has been elected three
categories of games, i.e. games example online rummy, poker carry on any occupation, trade or times since 2008.
of skill and chance; and lastly
88. In which of the following

years did the OIC adopted
its first Charter?
(a) 1969
(b) 1972
(c) 1978
(d) 1981

NOT TRUE about the UN
Human Rights Council?
(a) The Human Rights
Council is an inter-
governmental body
within the United
Nations system.
(b) The Council was created
by the United Nations
General Assembly in
2011.
PASSAGE(Q.86-Q.90): “instigators and propagators 86. Which of the following is (c) It replaced the former
O n Tuesday (February of violence and hate crimes” TRUE about Organisation United Nations
15), India lashed out against Muslims. of Islamic Cooperation? Commission on Human
at the Organisation of the India’s response to the OIC (a) The Organisation of Rights.
Islamic Cooperation (OIC) statement was that India is a the Islamic Conference (d) The Office of the
for being “communal minded” democracy, and issues within was established by the High Commissioner
and “hijacked by vested the country are resolved First Islamic Summit for Human Rights
interests” – a thinly veiled “in accordance with our Conference held in is headquartered in
reference to Pakistan – after Constitutional framework Morocco. Geneva, Switzerland.
the grouping called on the UN and mechanism, as well as
(b) It was founded in 1969.
Human Rights Council to take democratic ethos and polity.
“necessary measures” on the The communal mindset of the (c) It is headquartered at 90. What is the tenure of the
issue of Muslim girl students OIC Secretariat does not allow Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. members of UN Human
being told not to wear the hijab for a proper appreciation of (d) All of the above Rights Council?
in Karnataka schools. The OIC these realities.” Additionally, (a) 2 years
also urged India to “ensure the India repeated what it said in 87. How many members does (b) 3 years
safety, security and well-being 2020, that “OIC continues to OIC has?
of the Muslim community be hijacked by vested interests (c) 4 years
while protecting their way to further their nefarious (a) 40 (b) 44 (d) 5 years
of life”. The statement said propaganda against India”. (c) 54 (d) 57
India must bring to justice the
86 (d) All of the above 88. (b) 1972 89. (b) The Council was created headquartered in Geneva,
The Organisation of the Islamic The first OIC Charter was by the United Nations General Switzerland.
Conference was established adopted by the 3rd ICFM Session Assembly in 2011. 90. (b) 3 years
by the First Islamic Summit held in 1972. The Charter The Council was created by It is made up of 47 United
Conference held in Morocco. laid down the objectives and the United Nations General Nations Member States which
It was founded in 1969. It is principles of the organization Assembly in 2006. It replaced are elected by the UN General
headquartered at Jeddah, Saudi and fundamental purposes to the former United Nations Assembly (UNGA). Members of
Arabia. strengthen the solidarity and Commission on Human the Council serve for a period of
87. (d) 57 cooperation among the Member Rights. The Office of the High three years and are not eligible
The OIC is the second largest States. Over the last 40 years, the Commissioner for Human for immediate re-election after
intergovernmental organisation membership has grown from its Rights (OHCHR) serves as serving two consecutive terms.
after the United Nations with a founding members of 30 to 57 the Secretariat of the Human
membership of 57 states. states. Rights Council. OHCHR is
PASSAGE(Q.91-Q.95): The Prime Minister discussed Technology, Delhi 94. Sustainable development
It wasn’t the planet but people the LED bulbs distribution Goals India Index is a
and their commitment to scheme that has been running 92. Which of the following is report released by which of
nature that was ‘fragile,’ said for over seven years that had TRUE about [1]. the following?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly saved close to 220 (a) Indian Institute of
billion units of electricity and (a) It is a non-profit
on Wednesday in his inaugural research institute. Population Sciences
address at [1] World Sustainable prevented 180 billion tonnes of
carbon dioxide emissions per (b) It conducts research (b) NITI Aayog
Development Summit.
year. The National Hydrogen work in the fields of (c) Ministry of Power
But India, Mr. Modi claimed,
Mission aims to tap into ‘green energy, environment (d) Ministry of
had “walked the talk” by
hydrogen’ and it was up to and sustainable Environment, Forest
ensuring that equitable
the academic and research development for India and Climate Change
energy access to the poor
institutes such as [1] to come and the Global South.
remained a cornerstone of its
up with scalable solutions. (c) It was established in
environmental policy. These 95. Which of the following
included initiatives such as 1974 States topped the
90 million households getting replace [1] in the above (d) All of the above Sustainable Development
access to clean cooking fuel passage? Goals India Index 2021?
under the Ujjwala Yojana 93. Brundtland Commission on (a) Tamil Nadu
scheme and farmers being (a) The Energy and
Resources Institute Sustainable development (b) Maharashtra
encouraged to set up solar
submitted its report in
panels under the PM-KUSUM (b) International Solar (c) Kerala
which of the following
scheme where farmers could Alliance (d) Telangana
years?
use and sell surplus power to (c) Indian Institute of
the grid, which would promote (a) 1985 (b) 1987
Science
sustainability and equity. (c) 1991 (d) 1996
(d) Indian Institute of
91. (a) The Energy and Resources 92. (d) All of the above The most widely accepted driven assessment, and foster
Institute TERI is a non-profit research definition of Sustainable a competitive spirit among the
It wasn’t the planet but people institute. It conducts research Development was given by the States and Union Territories in
and their commitment to nature work in the fields of energy, Brundtland Commission in its achieving them.
that was ‘fragile,’ said Prime environment and sustainable report ‘Our Common Future’ 95. (c) Kerala
Minister Narendra Modi on development for India and the (1987). Kerala retained its position at the
Wednesday in his inaugural Global South. It was established 94. (b) NITI Aayog top of the rankings in the third
address at The Energy and in 1974 as Tata Energy Research The NITI Aayog launched its edition of the index, with a score
Resources Institute’s (TERI) Institute and renamed to The Sustainable Development Goals of 75, followed by Tamil Nadu
World Sustainable Development Energy Resources Institute in (SDG) India Index in 2018 to and Himachal Pradesh, both
Summit. 2003. monitor the country’s progress scoring 72.
93. (b) 1987 on the goals through data-
(a) Five years

(b) Ten years
(c) Fifteen years
(d) Twenty five years
97. The term Adult Education

has been replaced with
which of the following in
the policy?
(a) “Inclusive
Education”
(b) “Education For All”
(c) “Education for Elderly”
(d) “New age Education”
98. The Budget for FY 2022-23

announced the expansion
of SWAYAM PRABHA TV
under PM e-vidya scheme
from 12 channels to how
many channels?
(a) 100 (b) 125
(c) 200 (d) 250

the literacy rate of India as
per the last official Census
of India?
PASSAGE(Q.96-Q.100): other components which secondary stage equivalency,” a
are necessary for a citizen of senior MoE official said. (a) 69% (b) 71%
The Ministry of Education
(MoE) on Wednesday approved 21st century such as critical The scheme will be (c) 74% (d) 81%
a new scheme “New India life skills including financial implemented through
Literacy Programme” for the literacy, digital literacy, volunteerism through online 100.The Scheme is applicable
next [1] to cover all the aspects commercial skills, health care mode. The training, orientation, on non-literates who
of adult education to align with and awareness, child care and workshops of volunteers, may are above which of the
new National Education Policy education, and family welfare); be organized through face-to- following age?
(NEP), according to officials. vocational skills development face mode,” he added.
with a view towards (a) 14 (b) 15
“ The objectives of the (c) 18 (d) 21
obtaining local employment); 96. Which of the following will
scheme is to impart not only
basic education including replace [1] in the above
foundational literacy and
preparatory, middle, and passage?
numeracy but also to cover
96. (a) Five years to use “Education For All” from 12 channels to 200 74.04 per cent, 82.14 for males
The Ministry of Education instead of “Adult Education” to be made available in all and 65.46 for females.
(MoE) on Wednesday approved a as the previous term did not regional languages. New skill 100. (b) 15
new scheme “New India Literacy appropriately represent all non- development courses will also be The ministry has also decided
Programme” for the next five literates in 15 years and above introduced in the state ITIs to to use “Education For All”
years to cover all the aspects of age group. enable the youth of the country. instead of “Adult Education”
adult education to align with 98. (c) 200 99. (c) 74% as the previous term did not
new National Education Policy The finance minister also The results of 2011 census reveal appropriately represent all non-
(NEP), according to officials. announced the expansion that there has been an increase literates in 15 years and above
97. (b) “Education For All” of SWAYAM PRABHA TV in literacy in the country. The age group.
The ministry has also decided under PM e-vidya scheme literacy rate in the country is
PASSAGE(Q.101-Q.105): Finland.
R ussian President Vladimir

Putin on Monday, February
21, 2022 recognised the
(d) The OSCE’s Secretariat
is located in Geneva,
Switzerland
independence of separatist
regions in eastern Ukraine and 104.Which of the following is
paved the way to provide them the INCORRECT reason
military support — a direct for the Russia-Ukraine
challenge to the West that will
Conflict?
fuel fears that Russia could
imminently invade Ukraine. (a) The Donbass region
of eastern Ukraine
The carefully staged move
has been facing a
announced in the Kremlin
pro-Russian separatist
could lead to new sanctions
on Russia and flies in the movement since 2014.
face of European efforts for and after the Soviet following years? (b) Russia seized Crimea
a diplomatic solution to the collapse was used by the from Ukraine in 2014.
(a) 2014 (b) 2015
escalating crisis, which has West to contain Russia. (c) Ukraine has urged the
brought East-West relations to a (c) 2016 (d) 2017
(b) Russia blames the Collective Security
new low and jeopardized trade. North Atlantic Treaty Treaty Organisation to
Britain’s prime minister called it 103.Which of the following speed up his country’s
Organisation (NATO)
a “breach of international law.” is NOT TRUE about membership in the
for the current crisis
It came amid a spike in Organisation for Security alliance.
and called the US-led
skirmishes in the eastern and Co-operation in
alliance an existential (d) Ever since Ukraine
regions that Western powers Europe?
threat to Russia. split from the Soviet
believe Russia could use as a (a) OSCE is the world’s Union, both Russia and
(c) Russia wants Western
pretext for an attack on the largest security-oriented the West have vied for
Countries to guarantee
western-looking democracy that intergovernmental greater influence in the
has defied Moscow’s attempts to that NATO won’t allow
organisation. country.
pull it back into its orbit. Ukraine and other
former Soviet countries (b) Its mandate includes
101.Which of the following to join as members. issues such as arms 105.In which of the following
is/are the reason for the control, promotion of years did Russia annex
Russian President’s action? human rights, freedom Crimea?
of the press, and fair
(a) Russia claims that 102.Minks II agreement was (a) 2014 (b) 2015
elections.
Ukraine had inherited signed between Ukraine (c) 2017 (d) 2020
Russia’s historic lands (c) It was established on 1
and Russia in which of the
August 1975 in Helsinki,
101. (d) All of the above Ukraine, the OSCE and the towards their citizens, as well as control. Efforts to induct Ukraine
Russia claims that Ukraine had leaders of Donetsk and Luhansk towards each other. The OSCE’s into NATO have been ongoing
inherited Russia’s historic lands signed a 13-point agreement Secretariat is located in Vienna, for many years and seems to have
and after the Soviet collapse , now known as the Minsk 2 Austria. The organization also picked up pace recently. Russia
was used by the West to contain accord. has offices in Copenhagen, has declared such a move a “red
Russia. Russia blames the North 103. (d) The OSCE’s Secretariat is Geneva, The Hague, Prague and line”, with Moscow worried about
Atlantic Treaty Organisation located in Geneva, Switzerland Warsaw. the consequences of the US-led
(NATO) for the current crisis The Organization for Security 104. (c) Ukraine has urged the military alliances expanding
and called the US-led alliance and Co-operation in Europe Collective Security Treaty right up to its doorstep.
an existential threat to Russia. (OSCE) began as the Conference Organisation to speed up his 105. (a) 2014
Russia wants Western Countries on Security and Cooperation in country’s membership in the In February and March 2014,
to guarantee that NATO won’t Europe with the signature of the alliance. Russia invaded and subsequently
allow Ukraine and other former Helsinki Final Act in 1975 by 35 For the United States and the annexed the Crimean Peninsula
Soviet countries to join as Heads of State or Government European Union, Ukraine is a from Ukraine. This event took
members. from NATO, Warsaw Pact and crucial buffer between Russia place in the aftermath of the
102. (b) 2015 neutral countries. The Act also and the West. As tensions with Revolution of Dignity and is part
As the rebels moved further established ten fundamental Russia rise, the US and the EU of the wider Russo-Ukrainian
into Ukraine, in February principles (the ‘Decalogue’) are increasingly determined to conflict.
2015, representatives of Russia, governing the behaviour of States keep Ukraine away from Russian
environment.
(c) It meets biennially
to set priorities for
global environmental
policies and develop
international
environmental law.
109.United Nations
Environment Assembly was
established in which of the
following year?
(a) 2006 (b) 2008
(c) 2012 (d) 2014
110.Which of the following

report?
PASSAGE(Q.106-Q.110): Assembly (UNEA) resumes passage? (a) The trends towards
D eadly wildfires, noise early in March, spotlights (a) Old Planet New more dangerous fire-
pollution, and other growing public health threats Concerns weather conditions are
looming environmental that are disrupting natural life likely to increase due to
(b) Noise, Blazes and
threats could cause widespread cycles and having profound rising concentrations of
ecological consequences Mismatches: Emerging
ecological damage, and need to Issues of Environmental atmospheric greenhouse
be urgently addressed, the [1] worldwide. gasses.
Concern
said in a new report. (b) Climate change can
106. Which of the following will (c) New Age Environmental
“The Frontiers Report identifies replace [1] in the above prompt extreme
Concerns
and offers solutions to three passage? wildfires, generating
environmental issues that merit (d) Ready for the Next
(a) United Nations lightning that can ignite
attention and action from decade
Environment other fires.
governments and the public
Programme (c) Wildfires are not at
at large,” said [1] Executive 108.Which of the following
(b) Global Environment all responsible for air
Director Inger Andersen. is TRUE about United
Facility pollution.
[2] draws attention to emerging Nations Environment
(c) Conservation Assembly? (d) Humid tropical
environmental concerns
with the potential to wreak International forests are now more
(a) It is a governing body of
regional or global havoc, if not vulnerable wildfires due
(d) Greenpeace the [1].
addressed early. to deforestation and
(b) It is the world’s forest fragmentation.
The report released late 107.Which of the following will highest-level decision-
Thursday night India time, days replace [2] in the above making body on the
before the UN Environment
106. (a) United Nations Programme (UNEP) has and develop international ecosystem, which has affected
Environment Programme released its Annual Frontiers environmental law. over one-fourth of species in the
The United Nations Environment Report named Noise, Blazes and 109. (c) 2012 Savannah ecosystem.
Programme (UNEP) has Mismatches. It was created in June 2012, Wildfires are also responsible
released its Annual Frontiers 108. (d) All of the above during the United Nations for air pollution. According
Report named Noise, Blazes and It is the governing body of the Conference on Sustainable to a global study published in
Mismatches. UN Environment Programme. Development, also referred to as September 2021, there is a link
107. (b) Noise, Blazes and It is the world’s highest-level RIO+20. between the impact of wildfire-
Mismatches: Emerging Issues of decision-making body on 110. (c) Wildfires are not at all related pollution and human
Environmental Concern the environment. It meets responsible for air pollution. deaths.
The United Nations Environment biennially to set priorities for Wildfires have also become
global environmental policies more common in the Savannah
PASSAGE(Q.111-Q.115):
T he Union Cabinet on
Tuesday set in motion the
process to build a Secretariat
that will look after the affairs
of organising the G20 summit
in 2023. India will steer the
international body as its
President from December 1,
2022 to November 30, 2023,
which will lead to the G20
summit to be hosted here.
A government notification
said: “As per practice, a G20
Secretariat is being established
to handle work relating to
substantive/knowledge/content,
technical, media, security and
logistical aspects of India’s G20
Presidency. It will be manned
by officers and staff from the
Ministry of External Affairs,
Ministry of Finance, and
other relevant line Ministries/
Departments and domain
112.Presently, the secretariat of Troika.
knowledge experts.”
G20 is with which of the (b) The Current G20 Troika 115.Which of the following
An “apex committee” with following Countries? figures about G20 is
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is Italy, Saudi Arabia
(a) Italy and India. Correct?
at the head, and the Ministers
of Finance, Home and External (b) Indonesia (c) The G20 has no (a) G20 Consists of over
Affairs, will provide guidance to permanent secretariat. 60% of the World
(c) Saudi Arabia
the planning. Population.
(d) UAE (d) G20 Finance Ministers
and Central Bank (b) G20 Countries are
111.Who among the following responsible for 80% of
Governors began
is currently the Indian 113.Which of the following is the Global GDP
holding meetings on
G20 Sherpa conducting NOT TRUE about G20?
the advice of the G7 (c) G20 Countries
international negotiations (a) The presidency of the Finance Ministers constitute for the 75% of
at the level of G20? G20 rotates every year the Global Exports.
(a) Nirmala Sitharaman among its members,
114.The first G20 Summit (d) All of the above
(b) Piyush Goyal with the country that
was held in which of the
holds the presidency
(c) S. Jaishankar following year?
working together with
(d) Kiren Rijuju its predecessor and (a) 1999 (b) 2006
successor, also known as (c) 2008 (d) 2012
111. (b) Piyush Goyal October 2022 in Bali, Indonesia. G20 Presidencies, respectively. 115.(d) All of the above
The committee will also include Under the Indonesian 114.(c) 2008 The G20 brings together the
Commerce and Industry Presidency, the G20 in 2022 will On November 14-15 2008, the world’s major economies. Its
Minister Piyush Goyal, who is focus on the theme “Recover leaders of the G20 countries members account for more than
the current the “G20 Sherpa” Together, Recover Stronger”. gathered for the first G20 80 per cent of world GDP, 75
conducting international 113.(b) The Current G20 Troika is Summit. On that occasion, the per cent of global trade and 60
negotiations at the level of G20. Italy, Saudi Arabia and India. country’s leaders coordinated the percent of the population of the
112. (b) Indonesia India has today joined the global response to the impact of planet.
The 17th Group of 20 (G20) G20 Troika which consists of the financial crisis that occurred
Heads of State and Government Indonesia, Italy, and India - the in the US at that time and agreed
Summit will take place in current, previous and incoming to hold a follow-up meeting.
W ith the installation o

f[1]— claimed to be
one of the most powerful
supercomputers in the country
— at the [2], earlier this month,
India has now installed at
least three supercomputers in
scientific institutions across
the country in the last three
months under the government’s
National Supercomputing
Mission.
So far, ten supercomputers
have been installed in ten
institutes with five more in the
final stages, according to the
department of science.
The National Supercomputing
Mission is intended to
indigenise the development
and manufacturing of powerful
computers. Bengaluru (b) National has been ranked 63rd in
(b) Indian Institute of Supercomputing the Top 500 list of most
116.Which of the following will
Technology, Bombay Mission is jointly powerful supercomputers?
steered by the Ministry (a) PARAM Shivay
passage? (c) Indian Institute of
of Electronics and
(a) Param Pravega Technology, Delhi (b) PARAM Shakti
IT (MeitY) and
(b) PARAM Siddhi-AI (d) Indian Institute of Department of Science (c) PARAM Brahma
Technology, Madras and Technology. (d) PARAM-Siddhi AI
(c) Pratyush
(d) Mihir (c) It is an effort to
118.Which of the following is improve the number of 120.Which of the following
TRUE about the National supercomputers owned has the highest number of
117.Which of the following will Supercomputing Mission? by India. Supercomputers?
(a) National (d) All of the above (a) China (b) US
passage?
Supercomputing
(a) Indian Institute (c) Japan (d) France
Mission was announced
of Science (IISc), 119.Which of the following
in 2015.
116. (a) Param Pravega one of the most powerful crores over the period of seven Mihir — have made it to the
With the installation of ‘Param supercomputers in the country years by 2022. It supports the TOP500 list of the world’s most
Pravega’ — claimed to be — at the Indian Institute of government’s vision of ‘Digital powerful supercomputers. The
one of the most powerful Science (IISc), Bengaluru, India’ and ‘Make in India’. two systems have been ranked
supercomputers in the country earlier this month, India has NSM is jointly steered by the 63rd and 146th, respectively,
— at the Indian Institute of now installed at least three Ministry of Electronics and and remain the only two
Science (IISc), Bengaluru, supercomputers in scientific IT (MeitY) and Department supercomputers from India in
earlier this month, India has institutions across the country of Science and Technology the latest list of TOP500 released
now installed at least three in the last three months under (DST - Ministry of Science and on November 18.
supercomputers in scientific the government’s National Technology) and implemented 120. (a) China
institutions across the country Supercomputing Mission. by the Centre for Development Globally, China has the
in the last three months under 118. (d) All of the above of Advanced Computing maximum number of
the government’s National NSM was announced in 2015, (C-DAC), Pune and the Indian supercomputers and maintains
Supercomputing Mission. with an aim to connect national Institute of Science (IISc), the top position in the world,
117. (a) Indian Institute of Science academic and R&D institutions Bengaluru. followed by the US, Japan,
(IISc), Bengaluru with a grid of more than 70 high- 119. (d) PARAM-Siddhi AI France, Germany, Netherlands,
With the installation of ‘Param performance computing facilities Two supercomputers from Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Pravega’ — claimed to be at an estimated cost of Rs. 4,500 India — PARAM Siddhi-AI and
Indian States has the

highest number of HIV
cases?
(a) Karnataka
(b) Maharashtra
(c) Uttar Pradesh
(d) West Bengal
124.World AIDS day is

observed on which of the
following days?
(a) 1st November
(b) 1st December
(c) 10th November
(d) 10th December

is TRUE about the Stem
PASSAGE(Q.121-Q.125): Since receiving the cord blood 122.Which of the following is Cells?
A U.S. patient with leukemia to treat her acute myeloid TRUE about HIV?
(a) Stem cells are special
has become the first leukemia — a cancer that starts (a) HIV attacks CD4, a type cells that can make
woman and the third person to in blood-forming cells in the of White Blood Cell
bone marrow — the woman copies of themselves and
date to be cured of HIV after (T cells) in the body’s change into the many
receiving a stem cell transplant has been in remission and free immune system.
of the virus for 14 months, different kinds of cells
from a donor who was naturally (b) HIV multiplies itself that the body needs.
resistant to the virus that causes without the need for potent
HIV treatments known as [1]. and destroys CD4 cells, (b) There are several kinds
AIDS, researchers reported on
thus severely damaging of stem cells and they
February 15.
121.Which of the following will the human immune are found in different
The case of a middle-aged replace [1] in the above system. parts of the body at
woman of mixed race, passage? (c) In a healthy body, CD4 different times.
presented at the Conference
(a) Antiretroviral therapy count is between 500- (c) Cancer and cancer
on Retroviruses and
Opportunisitic Infections (b) Intravenous 1600, but in an infected treatment can damage
in Denver, is also the first chemotherapy body, it can go as low as the hematopoietic stem
involving umbilical cord blood, 200. cells.
(c) Immunotherapy
a newer approach that may (d) All of the above (d) All of the above
(d) Radiation therapy
make the treatment available to
more people. 123.Which of the following
121.(a) Antiretroviral therapy anomalies and infections in cells. number of HIV cases. As per the organizations, and individuals.
Since receiving the cord blood After entering the body, HIV data released by National AIDS 125.(d) All of the above
to treat her acute myeloid multiplies itself and destroys Control Organisation (NACO) Stem cells are special cells that
leukemia — a cancer that starts CD4 cells, thus severely in 2020, Maharashtra accounts can make copies of themselves
in blood-forming cells in the damaging the human immune for the highest number of new and change into the many
bone marrow — the woman has system. HIV infections in India with 8.54 different kinds of cells that the
been in remission and free of the Once this virus enters the body, lakh cases being reported in 2019 body needs. There are several
virus for 14 months, without the it can never be removed. alone. kinds of stem cells and they are
need for potent HIV treatments The CD4 count of a person 124.(b) 1st December found in different parts of the
known as antiretroviral therapy. infected with HIV reduces World AIDS Day occurs body at different times. Cancer
122.(d) All of the above significantly. In a healthy body, on December 1 and was and cancer treatment can
HIV attacks CD4, a type of CD4 count is between 500- 1600, established by the World Health damage the hematopoietic stem
White Blood Cell (T cells) in the but in an infected body, it can go Organization (WHO) in 1988 cells.
body’s immune system. as low as 200. to facilitate the exchange of
T cells are those cells that move 123.(b) Maharashtra information among national and
around the body detecting Maharashtra has the highest local governments, international
PASSAGE(Q.126-Q.130): It also stated that participation (a) First edition has emerged as a key
L ess than a month after by both the air forces in (b) Second edition pillar for the robust
Oman’s top defence the exercise “will promote India-Oman strategic
(c) Fourth edition
ministry officials and the professional interaction, partnership.
exchange of experiences and (d) Sixth edition
country’s Navy chief visited (c) Oman is the only
India to strengthen bilateral enhancement of operational country in the Gulf
ties, the Indian Air Force (IAF) knowledge, besides 128.Oman is a gateway to region with which all
and the Royal Air Force of strengthening bilateral relations which of the following? three services of the
Oman (RAFO) began a bilateral between the two countries.”. (a) Strait of Hormuz Indian armed forces
joint exercise on Monday. (b) Strait of Bosphorus conduct regular bilateral
The IAF said in a statement 126. Which of the following will exercises
replace [1] in the above (c) Strait of Tiran
Monday that the bilateral (d) All of the above
exercise named [1] will be held passage? (d) Bab al-Mandab Strait
from February 21 to February (a) Eastern Bridge – IV
25 at Air Force Station Jodhpur. 130.Which of the following is
(b) Eastern Bridge – V 129.Which of the following
“This would be the [2] of NOT a bilateral military
is TRUE about the
the exercise. It will provide (c) Eastern Bridge – VI exercise between India and
significance of India-Oman
an opportunity to enhance (d) Eastern Bridge – VII Oman?
relationship?
operational capability and (a) Naseem Al-Bahr
(a) Oman is India’s closest
interoperability between the 127.Which of the following will defence partner in the (b) AL Nagah
two Air Forces,” the statement replace [2] in the above Gulf region (c) Eastern Bridge
added. passage? (b) Defence cooperation (d) Shakti Exercise
126.(c) Eastern Bridge – VI 21 to February 25 at Air Force interests. Defence cooperation professional level.
The IAF said in a statement Station Jodhpur. “This would be has emerged as a key pillar for 130.(d) Shakti Exercise
Monday that the bilateral the sixth edition of the exercise. the robust India-Oman strategic Naseem Al-Bahr is the naval
exercise named Eastern Bridge 128.(a) Strait of Hormuz partnership. Defence exchanges exercise conducted between both
– VI will be held from February Oman is at the gateway of Strait are guided by a Framework the countries.
21 to February 25 at Air Force of Hormuz through which MOU which was recently AL Nagah is the joint exercise
Station Jodhpur. “This would be India imports one-fifth of its oil renewed in 2021. between the armies of two
the sixth edition of the exercise. imports. Oman is the only country in the countries.
127.(d) Sixth edition 129.(d) All of the above Gulf region with which all three Eastern Bridge is the joint
The IAF said in a statement Oman is India’s closest defence services of the Indian armed exercise between the air forces of
Monday that the bilateral partner in the Gulf region forces conduct regular bilateral two countries.
exercise named Eastern Bridge and an important anchor for exercises and staff talks, enabling
– VI will be held from February India’s defence and strategic close cooperation and trust at the
PASSAGE(Q.131-Q.135): As per the guidelines, 200 people signed between Shivaji
T oday is the 392nd birth can take part in the ‘Shiv Jyoti’ and Raja Jai Singh I in 135.Which of the following
anniversary of the great run and 500 people can attend 1665 is CORRECT about the
warrior king Chhatrapati a ceremony to mark the ‘Shiv (d) The last battle which administration of Shivaji?
Shivaji Maharaj, the founder Jayanti’. Shivaji fought was the (a) It was founded
of the Maratha empire. The Battle of Sangamner, by Shivaji for the
131. Chhatrapati Shivaji
birth anniversary of Shivaji 1679 sound system of
Maharaj Jayanti is
is celebrated, largely in administration which
celebrated on which of the
Maharashtra, as Shiv Jayanti. was greatly inspired
following day every year? 133.Shivaji passed away in
Every year, the day, a public from the Deccan style of
(a) 12 February which of the following
holiday in Maharashtra, is administration.
years?
celebrated in a grand manner (b) 15 February
(a) 1675 (b) 1680 (b) The King was the
with huge bike processions taken (c) 19 February (c) 1690 (d) 1694 supreme head of state
out across the state
As Maharashtra celebrates Shiv (d) 22 February who was assisted
Jayanti on Saturday, the state by a group of eight
134. Shivaji abolished Jagirdari
government has announced 132.Which of the following ministers known as the
System and replaced it with
guidelines in view of the is NOT TRUE about ‘Ashtapradhan’.
which of the following
prevailing coronavirus disease Chhatrapati Shivaji systems? (c) The peshwa, also known
(Covid-19) situation. The home Maharaj? as the mukhya pradhan,
(a) Zamindaari System
department has asked people (a) He was born in 1640. originally headed the
to not take out bike rallies and (b) Ryotwari System advisory council of the
(b) He was born to Shahaji (c) Mahelwari System
organise cultural programmes on raja Shivaji.
a big scale. Bhonsle.
(d) None of the above (d) All of the above
(c) Treaty of Purandar was
131.(c) 19 February Maharashtra. revenue officials which was inspired from Malik Amber
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj 133.(b) 1680 popularly known as Deshmukhs, reforms in Ahmednagar. The
Jayanti is celebrated each year Shivaji passed away in Raigad Deshpande, Patils and Kulkarnis. King was the supreme head of
on 19th February to remember in 1680 and was cremated at the 135.(d) All of the above state who was assisted by a group
and praise his courage, warfare Raigad Fort. It was founded by Shivaji for the of eight ministers known as the
tactics and administrative skills. 134.(b) Ryotwari System sound system of administration ‘Ashtapradhan’. The peshwa, also
132.(a) He was born in 1640. Shivaji abolished the Jagirdari which was greatly inspired known as the mukhya pradhan,
He was born on 19th February, System and replaced it with from the Deccan style of originally headed the advisory
1630 at Shivneri Fort in District Ryotwari System, and changes administration. Most of the council of the raja Shivaji.
Pune in the present-day state of in the position of hereditary administrative reforms were
T he Centre on Thursday
(February 17) notified
the green hydrogen and
green ammonia policy aimed
at boosting the domestic
production of green hydrogen
to 5 million tonnes by [1] and
making India an export hub for
the clean fuel.
The government is set to
provide a single portal for all
clearances required for setting
up green hydrogen production
as well as a facility for
producers to bank any surplus
renewable energy generated
with discoms for upto [2] and
use it as required.
“The requirement of time
bound clearances for these
projects would spur investment replace [2] in the above years if the production
while grid connectivity on 137.Which of the following passage? facility is commissioned
priority will ease operational is TRUE about National (a) 30 days (b) 45 days before June 2025.
processes,” said Vikram Hydrogen Energy Mission? (c) Producers will be
(c) 60 days (d) 90 days
Kirlosar, chairman, CII (a) It is an initiative will allowed to set up
Taskforce on Green Hydrogen capitalise on one of the bunkers near ports
and vice chairman of Toyota 139.Which of the following
most abundant elements for storage of green
Kirloskar. is TRUE about the newly
on earth (Hydrogen) for ammonia for export by
launched policy?
The power ministry has also a cleaner alternative fuel shipping.
said that energy plants set up option. (a) The government is
to produce green hydrogen/ offering to set up
(b) Focus on generation of
ammonia would be given manufacturing zones
hydrogen from green 140.India launched National
connectivity to the grid on a for production,
power resources. Hydrogen Energy Mission
priority basis. connectivity to the
(c) To link India’s growing ISTS (Inter-State in which of the following
136.Which of the following will renewable capacity with Transmission System) years?
replace [1] in the above the hydrogen economy. on priority basis. (a) 2015 (b) 2017
passage? (d) All of the above (b) The government (c) 2019 (d) 2021
(a) 2025 (b) 2030 is offering free
(c) 2035 (d) 2040 138.Which of the following will transmission for 25
136.(b) 2030 of hydrogen from green power government is offering to set transmission charges.
The Centre on Thursday resources. To link India’s growing up manufacturing zones for Besides, producers will
(February 17) notified the green renewable capacity with the production, connectivity to the be allowed to set up bunkers
hydrogen and green ammonia hydrogen economy. ISTS (Inter-State Transmission near ports for storage of green
policy aimed at boosting the 138.(a) 30 days System) on priority basis, and ammonia for export by shipping.
domestic production of green The government is set to provide free transmission for 25 years 140.(d) 2021
hydrogen to 5 million tonnes by a single portal for all clearances if the production facility is Hon’ble Prime Minister launched
2030 and making India an export required for setting up green commissioned before June 2025. the National Hydrogen Mission
hub for the clean fuel hydrogen production as well as This means that a green on India’s 75th Independence
137.(d) All of the above a facility for producers to bank hydrogen producer will be able Day (i.e. 15th August, 2021).
It is an initiative will capitalise any surplus renewable energy to set up a solar power plant in The Mission aims to aid the
on one of the most abundant generated with discoms for upto Rajasthan to supply renewable government in meeting its
elements on earth (Hydrogen) 30 days and use it as required. energy to a green hydrogen plant climate targets and making India
for a cleaner alternative fuel 139. (d) All of the above in Assam and would not be a green hydrogen hub.
option. Focus on generation Under the policy, the required to pay any inter-state
India and the UAE have signed
a Comprehensive Economic
Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
with the aim of increasing
bilateral merchandise trade to
$100 billion by [1].
The India-UAE CEPA marks
the first trade agreement India
has made with a major trading
partner in over a decade.
The last major FTA India
signed was with [1] in 2011.
The agreement is the first in
a series of FTAs that India
is pursuing to boost exports
sharply to 1 trillion dollars
each in merchandise and
services by 2030. India is also
pursuing FTAs with Australia,
UK, Canada, Israel and the EU.
Commerce minister Piyush
Goyal also said that India could
conclude an FTA with the Gulf 141.Which of the following will with India? 41.43 billion for non-oil
Cooperation Council (GCC) replace [1] in the above (a) 2nd (b) 3rd trade.
group of countries (Bahrain, passage? (c) The two nations share
(c) 4th (d) 5th
Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi (a) 2025 (b) 2030 historical ties and have
Arabia, and the UAE) by the maintained regular
end of the year. (c) 2040 (d) 2050 144.Which of the following is
cultural exchanges both
Under the agreement, the UAE TRUE about India-UAE
at official and popular
is set to eliminate duties on 142.Which of the following will relationship?
levels.
80 per cent of its tariff lines replace [2] in the above (a) The UAE is the
passage? (d) All of the above
which account for 90 per cent second-largest export
of India’s exports to the UAE (a) Japan destination of India
by value. This is particularly with an amount of over 145.UAE awarded the ZAYED
(b) Germany
important for exports in highly USD 29 billion for the Medal, their highest
(c) China civilian award, to the Prime
competitive areas such as year 2019-20.
textiles and garments where (d) Australia Minister of India in which
(b) For the UAE, India
India exporters have thus far of the following years?
is the second-largest
been facing a competitive 143.UAE ranks at which trading partner for (a) 2018 (b) 2019
disadvantage in import tariffs.” position among the the year 2019 with an (c) 2020 (d) 2021
following in terms of trade amount of around USD
141.(b) 2030 Japan in 2011. partner for the year 2019-20 and popular levels.
India and the UAE have signed 143.(b) 3rd after China and the USA. The 145.(b) 2019
a Comprehensive Economic After China and the United UAE is the second-largest export In 2019, UAE awarded
Partnership Agreement (CEPA) States, the UAE is India’s third- destination of India with an the ZAYED Medal, their
with the aim of increasing largest trading partner in the amount of over USD 29 billion highest civilian award, to the
bilateral merchandise trade to world. As of 2020-21, bilateral for the year 2019-20. For the Prime Minister of India for
$100 billion by 2030. trade between the two countries UAE, India is the second-largest consolidating the long-standing
142.(a) Japan reached USD 43.3 billion, with trading partner for the year 2019 friendship and joint strategic
The India-UAE CEPA marks thousands of items traded. with an amount of around USD cooperation between the two
the first trade agreement India 144.(d) All of the above 41.43 billion for non-oil trade. nations.
has made with a major trading India-UAE trade was around The two nations share historical
partner in over a decade. The last USD 60 billion making UAE, ties and have maintained regular
major FTA India signed was with India’s third-largest trading cultural exchanges both at official
L ast week, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata
Banerjee blocked Governor
[1] on Twitter. She said
she was “forced” to do so
because of his “unethical and
unconstitutional” statements
and accused him of treating
government officials like “his
servants”. [1] responded with a
series of tweets on the “essence
and spirit of democracy” and
saying the CM’s move was
“against constitutional norms”.
Days earlier, the Tamil Nadu
government had taken
exception to Governor R N
Ravi’s Republic Day speech
articulating the benefits of
NEET, the medical entrance a difference of opinion. The 149.Under which articles of
exam. Tamil Nadu has passed management of differences 148.Which of the following is the Constitution of India
a Bill to exempt the state from has traditionally been guided NOT TRUE with regards to does the Governor has the
NEET; Ravi has sent it back to by respect for each other’s governor in the State? power to grant pardon?
the state. boundaries. (a) A Governor is (a) Article 161
Although envisaged as an appointed by the
apolitical head who must act 146.Which of the following will (b) Article 162
replace [1] in the above President and is a
on the advice of the council of (c) Article 164
passage? nominee of the Central
ministers, the Governor enjoys (d) Article 165
Government.
certain powers granted under (a) Jagdeep Dhankhar
the Constitution, such as giving (b) One person cannot be
(b) Thawar Chand Gehlot appointed as Governor 150.Which of the following
or withholding assent to a Bill
(c) Mangubhai C. Patel for more than one State. commissions
passed by the state legislature,
(d) Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended that there
or determining the time needed (c) He is the constitutional
should be a provision
for a party to prove its majority, head of the state, bound
or which party must be called for the impeachment of
147.Which of the following is by the advice of his
first do so, generally after a the governor by the state
the Tenure of the Governor Council of Ministers
hung verdict in an election. legislature?
of State? (d) He functions as a vital
There are, however, no (a) Punchhi Commission
(a) 5 Years link between the Union
provisions laid down for Government and the (b) Sarkaria Commission
(b) 6 Years
the manner in which the State Government. (c) V.Chelliah Commission
Governor and the state must (c) Pleasure of President
(d) Mehra Commission
engage publicly when there is (d) Both a and c
146.(a) Jagdeep Dhankhar 147.(d) Both a and c Article 153 says that there shall conditions for discretion.
The Governor of a State is be a Governor for each State. (Article 163)
Last week, West Bengal Chief appointed by the President for a One person can be appointed as 150.(a) Punchhi Commission
Minister Mamata Banerjee term of five years and holds office Governor for two or more States.
blocked Governor Jagdeep during his pleasure. Only Indian 149.(a) Article 161 The “Punchhi commission -
Dhankhar on Twitter. She citizens above 35 years of age are Governor has the power to grant 2010” recommended that there
said she was “forced” to do so eligible for appointment to this pardons, reprieves, etc. (Article should be a provision for the
because of his “unethical and office. 161). impeachment of the governor
unconstitutional” statements 148.(b) One person cannot be There is a CoM with the CM by the state legislature. The state
and accused him of treating appointed as Governor for at the head to aid and advise chief minister should have a say
government officials like “his more than one State. the Governor in the exercise in the governor’s appointment.
servants”. of his functions, except some
1) Rafael Nadal (Spain) has copper, brass, and zinc. It setting up the National Land diplomatic level boycott of
defeated Daniill Medvedev is among one of the tallest Monetisation Corporation the Beijing Winter Olympics
(Russia) 2-6,6-7,6-4,6-4,7- metallic statues in sitting (NLMC) to carry out the opening and closing
5 to win the Men’s Singles positions in the world. monetization of the land ceremony. This means that
title at the Australian Open and other non-core assets. no Indian officials will
• The 216-feet tall
2022. This is his 21st Major attend the opening and
‘Statue of Equality statue
title, becoming the first closing ceremony. However,
is mounted on a 54-feet
male player to do so. In the country has sent one
high base building, called
women’s tennis, Margaret of its athletes, Arif Khan
‘Bhadra Vedi’.
Court (Australian) has 24 (skier), to attend the event.
singles majors, an all-time • The floors of the
record. In women’s, World building are dedicated to
Number 1 Ashleigh Barty of a Vedic digital library and The initial authorized share 7) The first geological park
Australia defeated Danielle research centre, ancient capital of NLMC will be Rs of India will be built in
Collins of the US, 6-3 7-6, Indian texts, a theatre, 5000 crores and subscribed Lamheta, Jabalpur in
to win women’s singles final an educational gallery share capital of ₹150 crores. Madhya Pradesh. Approval
title at the Australian Open detailing works of Sri So far, CPSEs have referred for the park was given by
2022. Ramanujacharya. About the 3,400 acres of land and the Geological Survey of
Ramanujacharya: Ramanuja other non-core assets for India, under the ministry
or Ramanujacharya was an monetization from CPSEs of mining. Park will be
2) Prime Minister Narendra Indian philosopher, Hindu including MTNL, BSNL, constructed with an
Modi has dedicated to the theologian, social reformer, BPCL, B&R, BEML, HMT investment of Rs 35 crores,
nation 216-feet tall ‘Statue and one of the most Ltd, Instrumentation Ltd. over five-acre land.
of Equality in Hyderabad important exponents of the
to commemorate the Sri Vaishnavism tradition
11th-century Bhakti saint within Hinduism. His 5) The United States was India’s 8)
Chief Electoral Officer’s
Ramanujacharya. The statue philosophical foundations top trading partner in the office of Punjab unveiled
has been conceptualised by for devotionalism calendar year 2021 with a its election mascot,
Chinna Jeeyar Swami of Sri were influential to the trade of $112.3 billion. The “Shera” (Lion). It aims to
Ramanujacharya Ashram. Bhakti movement. US is followed by China increase voter awareness,
The inauguration of the Ramanujacharya promoted on second. The value of participation and promote
statue is a part of the 12-day the idea of equality in all trade between India and ethical voting in the
Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi aspects of life including China was $110.4 billion. In Punjab Assembly polls
Samaroham, the ongoing faith, caste and creed. 2020, China was India’s top that is scheduled on 20
1000th birth anniversary trading partner and the US February 2022. The mascot
celebrations of the Bhakti was in the second rank. In “Shera”, depicting a lion. It
saint. A 3D presentation on 3) Prime Minister Narendra 2019 USA was India’s top represents the rich cultural
the life and teachings of the Modi has launched the trading partner and China heritage of Punjab.
saint will also be showcased Pandit Jasraj Cultural was on second.
during the event. Structure Foundation on the
of the Statue: occasion of the 92nd birth 9) The three days long Torgya
anniversary of the Indian 6) The 2022 Winter Olympics Festival of the Monpa tribal
classical vocalist. Prime has kicked off on February community of Arunachal
Minister Modi said that the 04, 2022, in Beijing, China Pradesh is celebrated
World is entitled to benefit and will continue till at Tawang Monastery,
from Indian music like they February 20, 2022. The Arunachal Pradesh. The
have from Yoga. Opening Ceremony was main attraction of the
held at Beijing’s National festival is the ‘Sha-na Cham’,
• The statue is made of Stadium, also known as the ritual dance performed
‘panchaloha’, a combination 4)
According to Economic the Bird’s Nest. However, by monks to showcase the
of five metals- gold, silver, Survey, the government is India had announced the Choe-Gyal Yap & Yum Tsa-
Munde deity. capable of flying in silence Kansal a management Asset Reconstruction
over the waters at a cruising professional. The book was Company Ltd (NARCL) or
speed of 40 knots and also virtually launched at one bad bank and IndiaDebt
10) In Honduras, the Freedom has a capacity of carrying of the biggest book launch Resolution Company Ltd
and Refoundation Party 8-12 passengers. ceremonies at IIT Kanpur, (IDRCL) are ready to
(Libre) member Xiomara & Delhi Technological commence operations. A
Castro has been sworn in as University total of 38 Non-Performing
the first female President of 14)
The Government of India Asset (NPA) accounts worth
the country. The 62- year-old has joined hands with Rs 82,845 crore have been
Castro replaces President the Government of Israel 18) A short biography of Indian identified to be transferred
Juan Orlando Hernández, as to create 150 ‘Villages of athlete Neeraj Chopra has to NARCL initially.
56th President of Honduras. Excellence’ in 12 States titled ‘Golden Boy Neeraj
Hernández has held the of the country, to help Chopra’ authored by sports
position for eight years farmers to adopt the latest author Navdeep Singh Gill 22)
Domestic rating agency
from 27 January 2014 to 27 technology in the farm has been released. CRISIL has estimated FY23
January 2022. sector. Israel would provide real GDP growth at 7.8 per
Technical assistance and cent as compared with the
other expertise to make 8.5 per cent projected in the
11)
North Korea successfully agriculture a more profitable Economic Survey.
tested its Hwasong-12 business.
Estimating the growth to
intermediate-range ballistic
slow to 7.8 per cent in FY23
missile from the Jagang
from the 9.2 per cent in
Province area. This was the 15)
State Bank of India (SBI)
Neeraj Chopra won a Gold FY22.
first nuclear-capable missile has launched a dedicated
testing undertaken by the centralized processing medal in Javelin Throw at
country since 2017. cell named ‘Surya Shakti the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
23)
The National Statistical
Cell’ with the objective of
Office recently released the
strengthening the existing
19)
Security Printing and first revised GDP estimates
financing arrangement for
Minting Corporation of for the fiscal year 2021.
solar power projects. SBI
India Limited (SPMCIL) According to the estimates,
has collaborated with Tata
has set up ‘new banknote the GDP contracted by
Power Solar Systems Ltd.
printing lines’ at its 6.6%. Earlier, the GDP had
(a Tata Power Company)
Currency Note Press, contracted by 7.3%.
The Hwasong-12 has an for financing solar power
projects. Nashik and Bank Note The contraction is mainly
estimated range of 4,500 km
Press, Dewas. due to the COVID pandemic
(2,800 miles).
and the lockdown imposed.
16)
The book titled ‘Fearless
Governance’ authored by 20)
State Bank of India (SBI)
12)
The Prime Minister of
Dr Kiran Bedi has been has issued $300 million 24)
The former secretary,
Portugal, Antonio Costo
released. She is the former Formosa bonds and listed Department of Sports, Ravi
has been re-elected after his
Lt Governor of Puducherry the issuance on India INX Mittal has been appointed
centre-left Socialist Party
and IPS (retd). This book GIFT IFSC. The lender as the Chairman of
secured a landslide victory
is based on the ground is the first Indian entity Insolvency and Bankruptcy
in the 2022 Portuguese
realities of nearly five years to raise money through Board of India (IBBI), as per
legislative election. Socialist
of service of Dr Bedi as Lt. Formosa Bond, which is a the notification issued by
Party bagged 117 seats in
Governor of Puducherry bond issued in Taiwan. SBI the Ministry of Corporate
the 230 seats Parliament.
and her vast experience of was the first issuer whose Affairs. He is a 1986 batch
40 years in the Indian Police Green bonds were dually IAS officer from Bihar
Service. listed in November 2021 cadre.
13)
Dubai firm, THE JET
on Luxembourg Stock
ZeroEmission announced He will serve as the
Exchange through an MOU
the launch of the World’s first Chairman of IBBI for a term
17)
India’s first-ever season that has been entered into
hydrogen-powered flying of five years or till he attains
style book titled ‘The Class by both Exchanges.
boat ‘THE JET’ in Dubai, 65 years of age, whichever is
United Arab Emirates. of 2006: Sneak Peek into
early.
‘THE JET’ features cutting- the Misadventures of the
Great Indian Engineering 21) As per SBI Chairman Dinesh
edge characteristics and
Life’, written by Akash Kumar Khara, National
technologies, making it 25) Senior scientist GA Srinivasa
Murthy has been appointed will be named “Vagir” after Narendra Modi has in India in January 2022
director of Defence it is commissioned into addressed 30th National fell sharply to 6.57%,
Research and Development service. Commission for according to the data from
Laboratory (DRDL) of Women Foundation Day the economic think-tank,
the Defence Research and programme on January 31, the Centre for Monitoring
Development Organisation 29)
Ministry of Defence had 2022, via video conference. Indian Economy (CMIE).
(DRDO) in Hyderabad. He launched the Services The event was organised to This is the lowest rate
joined DRDL in the year eHealth Assistance and celebrate the achievements witnessed since March
1987 and made significant Teleconsultation (SeHAT) of women in different 2021. In December 2021,
contributions in the area of medical teleconsultation fields. The theme of the the unemployment rate rose
structural dynamics, ground service for all entitled programme was ‘She The to a four-month high of
resonance testing, electrical armed forces personnel Change Maker’. 7.91%, compared to 6.97%
integration and checkout and their families in May in November.
for various projects of the 2021. To add further to
missile complex. this initiative, the Home 33)
Maharashtra has topped
Delivery or Self Pickup India’s list in the number of
of Medicines to patients micro, small and medium
26)
Tokyo Olympics gold seeking consultation on enterprises (MSME)
medallist, Neeraj Chopra SeHAT will be started w.e.f owned by entrepreneurs
has been nominated for the February 01, 2022. from the Scheduled Castes Telangana recorded the
prestigious 2022 Laureus with as many as 96,805 lowest unemployment rate
World Breakthrough of the enterprises. Tamil Nadu in January at 0.7%. This was
Year Award. 30)
India and Philippines with 42,997 enterprises followed by Gujarat at 1.2%,
signed a 375 million and Rajasthan with 38,517 Meghalaya at 1.5%, Odisha
dollar deal for the sale of units occupy the second at 1.8% and Karnataka at
27) A Telugu short film ‘Street BrahMos supersonic anti- and third slots, according 2.9%. Haryana witnessed
Student’ by Akula Sandeep ship cruise missiles to the to the data furnished by the the highest unemployment
depicting the story of Philippines Navy. Defence Office of the Development rate of 23.4% in January
a street urchin with a Secretary of Philippines Commissioner in the Union 2022. It was followed by
strong message on right to Delfin Lorenzana and Ministry of MSME. Rajasthan (18.9%), Tripura
education has bagged the Indian Envoy to Philippines
(17.1%), Jammu & Kashmir
first prize in a competition Shambhu Kumaran signed
(15%) and Delhi (14.1%).
organised by the National the contract in Manila. The 34)
As per a brand valuation
Human Rights Commission development is a major shot report released by Brand
(NHRC). in the arm for India’s efforts Finance, Life Insurance 36)
The Global Center of
to become an exporter of Corporation has been Excellence in Affordable and
defence hardware. ranked at 10th in the Clean energy was recently
28)
The Indian Navy‘s brand- list of insurance brands launched at IIT Dharwad.
new submarine, the fifth globally. LIC is the only The center will enhance
of the six French-designed 31) India and ASEAN nations Indian insurance company the research in affordable
Scorpene-class submarines have approved a work plan in the top 10 list. LIC has and clean energy. The
named “Vagir”, sailed out titled India-ASEAN Digital a valuation of USD 8.656 center will create, incubate
on its first sea sortie and will Work Plan 2022, during billion (around Rs 64,722 technologies, physical
now undergo rigorous trials the second ASEAN Digital crore). Of the top 10, as many infrastructure. Also, it
before it is delivered to the Ministers’ (ADGMIN) as 5 are Chinese insurance will create clean energy
Navy later this year. Meeting held virtually. The companies, with by Ping solutions. The solutions
ADGMIN meeting was An Insurance emerging as will target on livelihoods of
cochaired by Devusinh the world’s most valuable rural communities.
Chauhan, Minister of State insurance brand, despite
for Communications, recording a 26 per cent drop
Government of India, in brand value. The US has 37)
The Indian Institute
and Admiral Tin Aung two companies in the top of Science (IISc.),
San, Myanmar’s Minister 10, while France, Germany, Bengaluru, has installed
The submarine-designated
of Transport and and India have one each in and commissioned Param
“Yard 11879” during its
Communications. the list. Pravega, one of the most
construction by Mazagon
Dock Shipbuilders Limited powerful supercomputers
(MDL) in collaboration with in India.
32)
Prime Minister Shri 35)
The unemployment rate
the Naval Group of France
Cuttack, Odisha wetlands for people and our Day. The International
planet. Union for Conservation
of Nature (IUCN) gives
40)
The Government has OECM tag to those areas
decided to continue the 44)
Spituk Gustor Festival, a that are not protected but
scheme of ‘Khelo India – two-day annual celebration support rich biodiversity.
National Programme for of Ladakhi culture and The tag designates the area
Development of Sports’ traditional heritage as a biodiversity hotspot on
It is also the largest over the 15th Finance celebrated on 30th & 31st the international map
supercomputer in an Indian Commission Cycle — 2021- January 2022 in Leh and
academic institution. 22 to 2025-26 — at an outlay Ladakh Union Territory.
Param Pravega has a total of Rs 3165.50 crore. Khelo 47) The Reserve Bank of India’s
supercomputing capacity India Scheme Allocation (RBI) Monetary Policy
of 3.3 petaflops (1 petaflop increases by 48 per cent in Committee (MPC) headed
equals a quadrillion or 1015 Budget 2022 and includes by Reserve Bank of India
operations per second). The it in the Prime Minister’s (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta
supercomputer has been Award Scheme.” Das kept the repo rate
designed by the Centre for unchanged at 4 per cent
To witness the colourful for the 10th consecutive
Development of Advanced
41)
World Leprosy Day is festivities, devotees arrive time while maintaining an
Computing (C-DAC). It has
observed globally on the at the Spituk Monastery ‘accommodative stance’
been developed under the
last Sunday of January every every year and attend the as long as necessary. The
National Supercomputing
year. In 2022, the World colourful mask dance reverse repo rate will
Mission (NSM).
Leprosy Day falls on January locally called “Chams”. continue to be 3.35 per
30, 2022. This year theme of cent. The central bank
38)
India defeated China, 2-0 World Leprosy Day 2022 is had last revised the policy
“United for Dignity”. 45)
The Khijadiya Bird
to win the bronze medal at rate on May 22, 2020, in
Sanctuary near Jamnagar
the 2022 Women’s Hockey an off-policy cycle to perk
in Gujarat and Bakhira
Asia Cup tournament. The up demand by cutting the
42)
Indian Coast Guard is Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar
2022 Women’s Hockey Asia interest rate to a historic
celebrating its 46th Raising Pradesh have been listed as
Cup was the 10th edition of low. Reserve Bank of India
Day on 01 Feb 2022. As Wetlands of International
the quadrennial Women’s conducted the 6th and
the fourth largest Coast Importance by the Ramsar
Hockey Asia Cup. The the last Monetary Policy
Guard in the world, the Convention. With this, the
tournament was held from Committee (MPC) meeting
Indian Coast Guard has total number of Ramsar
January 21 to 28, 2022 at for 2021-22 between
played a significant role in sites in India goes up to 49.
the Sultan Qaboos Sports February 8-10, 2022. The
securing the Indian Coasts Khijadiya has become the
Complex in Muscat, Oman. next meeting of the MPC
and enforcing regulations fourth wetland of Gujarat
is scheduled during April
in the Maritime Zones of to get the Ramsar tag.
6-8, 2022. The Marginal
India. The ICG was formally Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary,
39)
Indian teenager Unnati Standing Facility (MSF)
established on February 1, Thol Wildlife Sanctuary
Hooda beat compatriot rate and bank rates remain
1977, by the Coast Guard and Wadhwana wetland are
Smit Toshniwal, 21-18, 21- unchanged:
Act, 1978 of the Parliament the other Ramsar sites in
11, to claim the women’s • Policy Repo Rate:
of India. It operates under the state. The last two were
singles title at the 2022 4.00%
the Ministry of Defence. included in April last year.
Odisha Open badminton
tournament. The 14- • Reverse Repo Rate:
year old Unnati is the 3.35%
43)
World Wetlands Day is 46)
The Aravalli Biodiversity
youngest Indian to win • Marginal Standing
observed every year on Park in Gurugram,
the tournament. In men’s Facility Rate: 4.25%
February 2 all over the world. Haryana, has been declared
singles, India’s 21-year-
2022 marks 51 years of the as India’s first “other effective • Bank Rate: 4.25%
old Kiran George beat
Convention on Wetlands. area-based conservation
Priyanshu Rajawat 21-15, • CRR: 4%
The international theme for measures” (OECM) site.
14-21, 21-18 to emerge
World Wetlands Day 2022 is This was informed by • SLR: 18.00% RBI
as the winner. The 2022
‘Wetlands Action for People the Union ministry of Monetary Policy Highlights
Odisha Open is a BWF
and Nature’. The day aims environment, forest and & Key Decisions:
Super 100 tournament,
to raise awareness about climate change on the
organized at the Jawaharlal • The MPC decided
the crucial role played by occasion of World Wetlands
Nehru Indoor Stadium, to continue with the
accommodative stance. Protection and Rapid renaming of 3 places 58)
Scientist and launch
Generation Advancement in Madhya Pradesh, vehicle specialist, Dr S
• RBI has projected the
Facility. Hoshangabad Nagar as Unnikrishnan Nair took
real GDP growth for 2022-
“Narmadapuram”, Shivpuri charge as the director of
23 at 7.8 per cent.
as “Kundeshwar Dham” and Vikram Sarabhai Space
• For the current fiscal 50) India has become the first Babai as “Makhan Nagar”. Centre (VSSC).
year, RBI projected real country in the world to
GDP growth of 9.2 per cent administer a DNA vaccine
and expects that it will take against COVID-19. 54)
The United Kingdom
the economy above the pre- has marked the 70th
pandemic level. anniversary of Queen
Elizabeth II’s rule, the queen
• For the current fiscal
looked to the future of the
year, RBI retained its retail
monarchy. She surpassed
inflation projection at 5.3
Louis XIV of France as the
per cent. VSSC is a keyspace research
longest-reigning monarch
• MPC has been given of a sovereign state. She centre of the Indian Space
the mandate to maintain became the longest-lived Research Organisation
The ZyCoV-D which is
annual inflation at 4 per British monarch on 21 (Isro) and specialises in
the World’s first plasmid
cent until March 31, 2026, December 2007. rocket and space vehicles
DNA vaccine has been
with an upper tolerance of 6 for satellite programs.
produced by Ahmedabad-
per cent and lower tolerance based vaccine manufacturer
of 2 per cent. Zydus Cadila and it was 55) India has agreed to provide
a grant to Sri Lanka to 59)
India’s Goa Shipyard Ltd
administered for the first delivered the 5th and final
time in Patna. implement a ‘Unitary
48)
Indian National Women’s Digital Identity framework’, vessel of the 5 Coast Guard
Day is observed every apparently modelled on the Offshore Patrol Vehicle
year on 13 February to Aadhaar card. The Rajapaksa (CGOPV) Project ahead of
51)
Indian Railway Protection
commemorate the birth government will “prioritise” contractual schedule. The
Force has launched a
anniversary of Sarojini the implementation of the vessel was named ICGS
nationwide operation to
Naidu. This year Nation Framework as a national- ‘Saksham’. The point to be
curb human trafficking.
celebrates its 143rd Birth level programme. underlined- all 5 vessels
As part of “Operation
Anniversary. She was born have been delivered before
AAHT”, special teams will
on February 13, 1879. time to the Indian Coast
be deployed on all long-
She was famous for her 56)
Atal Innovation Mission Guard. The contract for Z5
distance trains/routes with
nickname ‘Nightingale of (AIM), NITI Aayog, CGOPVs was signed by
a focus on rescuing victims,
India’ or ‘Bharat Kokila’ and the U.S. Agency for GSL with the Ministry of
particularly women and
because of her poems. International Development Defence on 26 August 2016.
children, from the clutches
Sarojini Naidu is well- of traffickers. (USAID) have announced
known across the globe a new partnership under
for her contributions to the Sustainable Access to 60)
The Central Government
literature Markets and Resources of India has decided to
52)
India’s first commercial-
for Innovative Delivery of continue the scheme
scale biomass-based
Healthcare (SAMRIDH) of “Rashtriya Yuva
hydrogen plant will come
49)
Prime Minister Narendra initiative. Sashaktikaran Karyakram
up at the Khandwa district
Modi has inaugurated (RYSK)” for another 5
of Madhya Pradesh. Every
the 50th Anniversary years from 2021 -22 to
day this plant will produce
celebrations of the 57) A book titled “Atal Bihari 2025-26 with an outlay
one tonne of hydrogen,
International Crops Vajpayee” authored by of Rs. 2,710.65 crore. To
from 30 tonnes of biomass
Research Institute for Sagarika Ghose has been develop the personality and
feedstock. The plant is being
the Semi-Arid Tropics launched. It is a biography leadership qualities of the
put up by a joint venture of
(ICRISAT) in Patancheru, of the former Prime youth and to engage them in
Watomo Energies Ltd and
Hyderabad. During Minister of India. Sagarika nation-building activities.
Biezel Green Energy with an
the occasion, PM also Ghose is a jounalist. She Beneficiaries of this scheme
investment of Rs 24 crore.
inaugurated two research has also authored a book are the youth in the age
facilities of ICRISAT, which titled “Indira: India’s Most group of 15 to 29 years
were Climate Change Powerful Prime Minister” (according to the definition
53)
The government of India
Research Facility on Plant of ‘youth’ in the National
(GoI) has approved the
Youth Policy, 2014). reliable power supply. The 67)
In accordance with the continue the work after
competition will bring Bloomberg Billionaires ISS’s retirement. NASA also
together qualified mentors Index, Gautam Adani selected Houston-based
61) The ‘Pradhan Mantri Kisan with TSPs, innovators, and net worth reached $88.5 Axiom Space to provide
Sampada Yojana (PMKSY)’ other participants to create billion overtaking Mukesh the ISS’s first commercial
has been extended till teams for efficient electricity Ambani’s $87.9 billion module.
March 2026 with an networks. becoming Asia’s richest
allocation of Rs 4,600 crore. person as on 8th February
The scheme is administered 2022. 70)
Indian Space Research
by the Ministry of Food 64)
Prime Minister Narendra Organisation (ISRO)
Processing Industries. The Modi has addressed the has decommissioned the
scheme aims for the overall high-level segment of INSAT-4B, an Indian
growth and development of the One Ocean Summit. communications satellite
the food processing sector. The high-level segment that forms part of the
of the summit will also Indian National Satellite
be addressed by several System. The INSAT-4B
other heads of states and With a nearly $12 billion underwent Post Mission
governments including jump in his personal Disposal (PMD) at the
Germany, the United wealth, he has become the end of its service, followed
Kingdom, South Korea, 10th richest person in the by decommissioning on
Japan and Canada. world. Globally Elon Musk January 24. INSAT-4B is the
was named as the world’s 21st Indian Geostationary
In May 2017, the Central richest person with a total Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite
Government had launched net worth of $235 Billion.
65)
The India Press Freedom to undergo post-mission
SAMPADA (Scheme for He was followed by Jeff
Report 2021 was recently disposal, the required
Agro-Marine Processing Bezos with a total net worth
released by the Rights and propellant for such re-
and Development of Agro- of $183 Billion & Bernard
Risks Analysis Group. orbiting was included in
Processing Clusters) with an Arnault with a total net
According to the report, the initial fuel budget as a
allocation of Rs 6,000 crore. worth of $168 Billion.
13 media houses and part of standard practice
The scheme was renamed as
newspapers were targeted in followed in ISRO’s GEO
PMKSY in August 2017.
the country, 108 journalists mission planning.
were attacked, and 6 68) As per the TomTom Traffic
journalists were killed. Index Ranking 2021,
62)
Securities and Exchange Mumbai has been ranked
Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar 71)
International Day of Zero
Board of India has at 5th, Bengaluru at 10th in
Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh Tolerance for Female is
restructured its advisory terms of the most congested
and Tripura topped the observed on 6th February
committee on Investor cities in the world in 2021.
list of States and Union globally. This day is
Protection and Education
Territories where journalists Delhi and Pune ranked sponsored by the United
Fund (IPEF), under
and media houses were 11th and 21st among 404 Nations for their efforts to
the chairmanship of
targeted in 2021. cities across 58 countries, eradicate female genital
G Mahalingam. The
according to TomTom mutilation. It was first
committee is mandated
Traffic Index’s global top 25 introduced in 2003. This
to recommend investor
66) Salesforce, a leading player lists. Istanbul, Turkey has year theme of International
education and protection
in Customer Relationship been declared as the most Day of Zero Tolerance
activities for the utilization
Management (CRM), congested city in the world for Female: Accelerating
of the SEBI Investor
published the Global Digital as per the ranking. while Investment to End Female
Protection and Education
Skills Index 2022 which Moscow came in second. Genital Mutilation.
Fund (IPEF).
highlights the growing
global digital skills crisis
and the need for action. 69)
According to NASA, the 72) Khadi and Village Industries
63)
Union Minister of Power,
India has scored 63 out International Space Station Commission (KVIC)
R K Singh has launched
of 100, leads the digital will continue its operation has cancelled the “Khadi
Powerthon-2022, a
skills readiness, and has until 2031 and then crash Certification” of its oldest
hackathon competition
the highest readiness index into an uninhabited area in Khadi Institution named
to find technology-driven
among the 19 countries. The the Pacific Ocean known Mumbai Khadi & Village
solutions to solve the
average global readiness as Point Nemo. It will be Industries Association
complex problems in
score was 33 out of 100. replaced with three free- (MKVIA).
power distribution and
to ensure quality and flying space stations to
NSWS. NSWS is linked Organization (NATO), all 298 onboard..
with the India Industrial Secretary-General Jens
Land Bank (IILB) which Stoltenberg, meanwhile,
hosts 45 industrial parks of voiced concerns that 79) President of India, Ram Nath
J&K that will help Investors Russia continues to build Kovind has inaugurated the
to discover available land up troop numbers along Durbar Hall at Raj Bhavan,
parcels in J&K. Ukraine’s borders, including situated at Malabar Hill,
This MKVIA was running Mumbai. While retaining
in Belarus. Background
the popular “Khadi the heritage features of the
ofthe Russia-Ukraine
Emporium” at Metropolitan 76)
Atal Tunnel has been old court hall, the new hall
Border Conflict: The
Insurance House, Mumbai officially certified as ‘World’s has been given additional
Border conflict in Ukraine
since 1954. Longest Highway Tunnel features such as a balcony
began with protests in
above 10,000 Feet’ by the the capital city of Kiev in and a sea view gallery.
World Book of Records. November 2013 against
73)
The ancient festival of
Atal tunnel is a Highway Ukrainian President Viktor
Kanchoth is annually 80) Union Power Minister R K
tunnel built under Rohtang Yanukovych’s decision to
celebrated, mainly by the Singh has announced that
Pass in eastern Pir Panjal reject a deal for greater
Nag followers, during the India will achieve zero-
Himalayan range on Leh- economic integration
Shukla Paksha of Magh diesel use in agriculture
Manali Highway. with the European Union.
month which usually falls and replace fossil fuel with
After a violent crackdown
in January or February. The renewable energy by 2024.
by state security forces
festival is celebrated with 77)
Legendary singer Lata For this, states should
unintentionally drew an
religious fervour across the Mangeshkar has passed develop action plans to
even greater number of
Chenab valley region of away at the age of 92 after achieve the assigned targets
protesters and escalated
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). suffering a multi-organ and specific agencies
the conflict, President
failure. The Bharat Ratna Yanukovych fled the dedicated to energy
awardee was admitted to country in February 2014. In efficiency and conservation.
74) The Mumbai-Ahmedabad
the hospital after being March 2014, Russian troops This initiative is a part of the
bullet train project will
diagnosed with pneumonia took control of Ukraine’s government’s commitment
be India’s first bullet train
and tested positive for the Crimean region, before to increase the share of
route. While Surat city will
coronavirus disease in formally annexing the non-fossil fuels by 2030 and
get India’s first bullet train
January. peninsula after Crimeans become a net-zero emitter
station. National High-
voted to join the Russian by 2070.
Speed Rail Corporation
Federation in a disputed
Ltd (NHSRCL) will be
local referendum. Russian
constructing this project 81) Ministry of Education has
President Vladimir Putin
that is scheduled to be approved a new scheme
cited the need to protect the
completed by December named “New India Literacy
rights of Russian citizens
2024. The cost of the project Programme” for the period
and Russian speakers in
is estimated to be more than She is survived by her 3 FYs 2022-2027 to cover
Crimea and southeast
Rs 1 lakh crore of which Rs sisters – Usha Mangeshkar, all the aspects of Adult
Ukraine. The Border
88,000 crores will be funded Asha Bhosle, Meena Education. The scheme aims
conflict heightened ethnic
by the Japan International Khadikar and brother to align Adult Education
divisions, and two months
Cooperation Agency Hridaynath Mangeshkar will all aspects of National
later pro-Russian separatists
(JICA). Education Policy 2020 and
in the Donetsk and Luhansk
regions of eastern Ukraine Budget Announcements
78) The Russia-Ukraine 2021-22. The government
75)
Jammu & Kashmir has held a referendum to
Border Conflict, have has now replaced the
become the first Union declare independence
been simmering for more term “Adult Education” as
Territory to integrate with from Ukraine. In July
than two months, with ‘Education for All’ in the
the National Single Window 2014, the situation in
diplomatic efforts to resolve country.
System (NSWS) which Ukraine escalated into
the issue showing little
marks a major leap in Ease an international conflict
sign of progress. Russia has
of Doing Business (EoDB) and put the United States
more than 100,000 troops 82)
Union Minister of Ports,
in the UT. Lieutenant and the European Union
on its border with Ukraine, Shipping and Waterways
Governor of J&K Manoj (EU) at odds with Russia
sparking Western warnings & AYUSH, Sarbananda
Sinha launched the J&K when a Malaysian Airlines
of an imminent invasion. Sonowal virtually flagged
Single Window Clearance flight was shot down over
The North Atlantic Treaty off the ‘Most Awaited’ Water
System integrated with Ukrainian airspace, killing
Taxi for citizens of Mumbai, This is also the final term for 30 November 2023 and the Role, were among the other
Maharashtra. The Water Steinmeier, which he won G20 Summit will be held in titles that were given to the
Taxi services will commence with 71% of the vote. India in 2023 (18th edition). personalities of the Indian
from the Domestic Cruise For its preparation, the film fraternity:
Terminal (DCT) and government has approved
will also connect nearby 86)
Israel becomes the first- the setting up of a G20
locations at Nerul, Belapur, ever country to allow Secretariat and its reporting
Elephanta island and JNPT. drone flights in civilian structures. The G20
The service promises a airspace. The certification Secretariat will be guided by
comfortable, stress-free was issued to the Hermes an Apex Committee headed
journey, is timesaving and Starliner unmanned by Prime Minister and it will
promotes eco-friendly system by the Israeli have the following members: • Film of the Year Award:
transport.” Civil Aviation Authority Finance Minister: Nirmala Pushpa: The Rise
and was manufactured Sitharaman,Home Minister:
and developed by Elbit Amit Shah,External Affairs • Best Film Award: Shershaah
83) Kerala’s first Caravan park Systems, an Israeli defence Minister: S. Jaishankar, and • Best Actor Award: Ranveer
is all set to come up in electronics company. G20 Sherpa: Piyush Goyal Singh for film 83
Vagamon, a scenic hill
station located in the Idukki • Best Actress Award: Kriti
district. 87)
India’s retail inflation, as 90)
The 4th India-Australia Sanon for film Mimi
measured by the consumer Energy Dialogue was
price index (CPI), cochaired by Union
accelerated to 6.01% in the Minister for Power and New 92)
India has improved its
month of January, breaching & Renewable Energy, RK overall IP score from 38.4
the Reserve Bank of India Singh and Australian Energy per cent to 38.6 per cent,
(RBI) tolerance band of 6%, and Emissions Reduction and the country is ranked
albeit marginally. The surge Minister Angus Taylor. 43 out of 55 countries on the
The park, as part of the International Intellectual
state governments new in inflation print was driven Energy Transition was a
by higher consumer goods major area of discussion in Property Index 2022. This
Caravan Tourism policy,
would be thrown open to and telecom prices along the dialogue and both the
travellers. Caravan Tourism with a comparatively low Energy Ministers. Energy
was introduced by the state rate a year ago. Transition activities in their
Tourism department as a respective countries with a
safe means for holidaying focus on renewables, energy
at a time when people are 88)
Central Bureau of efficiency, storage, EVs,
unable to step out or travel Investigation (CBI) has critical minerals, mining
due to the outbreak of booked ABG Shipyard for etc.
COVID-19. an alleged Rs 22,842-crore
index was released by the
financial fraud. ABG
Global Innovation Policy
Shipyard is the flagship 91)
The prestigious ceremony Center of the U.S. Chamber
84)
In Burkina Faso, the entity of ABG Group. It of Dadasaheb Phalke of Commerce. In July 2021,
military junta has appointed has cheated a consortium International Film Festival the Parliamentary Standing
lieutenant colonel Paul- of 28 banks and financial Awards 2022 was held on Committee on Commerce
Henri Sandaogo Damiba institutions of Rs. 22,842 February 20. The event was released a Review of the
as the interim President of crore. This is the biggest held in Mumbai and the Intellectual Property Rights
the country following the bank fraud case ever best performances from Regime in India. This review
military coup. The 2022 registered by the CBI. The last year were honoured is a welcome development
Burkina Faso military coup case pertained to funds in the event this time. This and offers a comprehensive
took place on January 24, gotten and misused during year Dadasaheb Phalke and detailed study of the
2022, which was led by the 2012-17 period. Rishi International Film Festival strengths and weaknesses
Damiba. Agarwal, the then CMD Awards 2022 celebrated the of India’s national IP
of ABG Shipyard has been opulence of Indian Cinema environment.
named in the FIR. and also commemorated the
85)
German President, Frank- 75 years of Independence or
Walter Steinmeier has been Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. 93)
Union Minister of State
re-elected for a second term 89)
India will hold the Best Film, Best Actor, Best for Health and Family
of five years by a special Presidency of the G20 Actress, Best Supporting Welfare, Bharati Pravin
parliamentary assembly. from 1 December 2022 to Role, and Best Negative Pawar has inaugurated
India’s first Biosafety Jaishankar is on a threeday Battalion the Maratha
level-3 containment mobile visit to France, from Light Infantry Regiment
laboratory in Nashik, February 20 to 22, 2022, of the Indian Army and
Maharashtra. The mobile to attend EU Ministerial 30th Infantry Regiment
laboratory will help to Forum for Cooperation in of Japanese Ground Self
investigate newly emerging the Indo-Pacific scheduled Defence Forces (JGSDF) are
and re-emerging viral for February 22. The participating in this 12 days
infections, by specially agreement on ‘Roadmap on long joint exercise.
trained scientists from Blue Economy and Ocean
ICMR. Governance’ was signed
between India’s External 99) Mumbai, India will host the
Affairs Minister Dr. S International Olympic
94)
Israel successfully tested Jaishankar’s and his French
a new naval air defence counterpart Jean-Yves Le
system “C-Dome,” to be Drian.
used on the Israeli Navy’s
Sa’ar 6-class corvettes.
C-Dome is the naval version 97)
The Indian Air Force
of the Iron Dome, an all- (IAF) and Royal Air Force
weather air defence system of Oman (RAFO) have
of Israel to intercept and organised a bilateral air Committee session in
destroy short-range rockets exercise named Eastern 2023. The IOC Session
and missiles, from the Gaza Bridge-VI from February for 2023 will be held at Jio
Strip. 21 to 25, World Convention Centre,
Mumbai. The last such
session was hosted by India
95) Russian President, Vladimir in the year 1983 in New
Putin has recognised the Delhi. In 2022, the IOC
independence of separatist session was held in Beijing,
regions in eastern Ukraine – China.
Donetsk and Luhansk.
2022 at Air Force Station
Jodhpur in Rajasthan. 100) The Indian Railways
Eastern Bridge-VI is the has shared new images of
sixth edition of the exercise. the country’s first cable-
The exercise will provide stayed bridge on the
an opportunity to enhance Anji river in Jammu and
operational capability and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
Putin’s announcement interoperability between the The underconstruction Anji
paved the way for Russia two Air Forces. Khad bridge, part of
to openly send troops
and weapons to the long-
running conflict pitting 98)
The third edition
Ukrainian forces against of the joint military
Moscow-backed rebels. exercise “EX DHARMA
Russian-backed rebels have G UA R D IA N - 2 0 2 2 ”
been fighting Ukrainian between India and Japan the Udhampur-Srinagar-
troops in Donetsk and will be conducted from 27 Baramulla Rail Link
Luhansk since 2014, with February to 10 March 2022, (USBRL) project, will
regular violence despite a at Belagavi (Belgaum), connect Katra and Reasi
ceasefire agreement. areas through rail links. The
bridge will stand at a height
of 331 metres above the
96) India and France have inked river bed – higher than the
a roadmap to enhance Eiffel Tower in Paris. The
their bilateral exchanges total length of the bridge
on the blue economy and is 473.25 metres and it is
ocean governance. Dr S supported by 96 cables.
Karnataka. The 15th
1. The National Human Rights reservation in promotion. It suspension relies mainly cities/chennai/tn-house-
Commission(NHRC)inits held ‘cadre’ and not class, on grounds of denial of the unanimously-re-adopts-
order directed Ministry principles of natural justice, anti-neet-bill-7763183/
of HomeAffairs and and of violation of laid-
5. The Kerala government
Arunachal Pradesh to down procedure.
has proposed to amend
submit action taken report
Source: https:// the Kerala Lokayukta Act,
within six weeks against
indianexpress.com/ 1999 with an ordinance,
alledged racial profiling and
ar ticle/india/supreme- a move that has drawn
relocation of the Chakmas group or the entire service court-cancels-suspension- criticism from the
and Hajongs from the State. as the unit for the purpose 12-maharashtra-bjp- opposition. The proposed
Also both the authorities of collection of quantifiable mla-7745346/ ordinance envisages
were directed to “ensure data for giving promotion limiting the powers
4. A special Assembly session
that human rights of the quotas. It said otherwise the of the anti-corruption
of Tamil Nadu Assembly
Chakmas and Hajongs entire exercise of reservation watchdog. The Kerala
on Tuesday unanimously
are protected by all the in promotions would be cabinet has recommended
re-adopted the anti-NEET
ways”. Members of the two rendered meaningless to the Governor that he
Bill, which Governor R N
communities have allegedly if data pertaining to the promulgates the ordinance.
Ravi had last week returned
been victims of hate crime, representation of SCs and The proposal sought to give
to the government. The
police atrocities and denial] STs was done with reference the government powers to
bill seeks to discard the
to the entire service. “either accept or reject the
Source: https://www. verdict of the Lokayukta,
thehindu.com/news/ after giving an opportunity
national/states-must- of being heard”. By this
decide-on-scst-quota-in- ordinance, the quasi-
promotions-supreme- judicial institution will turn
court/article38338038.ece into a toothless advisory
body, whose orders will no
of rights and beneficiary 3. The Supreme Court bench longer be binding on the
programmes. In 2015, the of Justices A.M. Khanwilkar, requirement of NEET for
government.
Supreme Court directed Dinesh Maheshwari medical courses in the state.
the State to grant them and C T Ravikumar, has The central government Source:https://
citizenship, but this had not set aside the one-year had made the National indianexpress.com/article/
yet been implemented. suspension of 12 BJP MLAs Eligibility cum Entrance india/kerala-lokayukta-
from the Maharashtra Test mandatory for all the row - at - n at i on a l - l e vel -
Source: https://www.
Legislative Assembly. students in the country. The cpm-always-sought-
thehindu.com/news/
The Supreme Court held bill was passed opposing this strong-anti-corruption-
nati ona l/n hrc-dire c ts-
that suspension for a year requirement. The bill aims ombudsman-7741442/
mha-to-protect-rights-
was ‘unconstitutional, to uphold equality, social
of-arunachal-chakmas/ 6.
The University Grants
substantively illegal and justice, equal opportunity.
article38323144.ece Commission (UGC) has
irrational’. The court has It protects all the vulnerable
released a Draft National
2. The Supreme Court (SC) student communities. The
declared the resolution Higher Educational
refused to lay down the bill was introduced based
“non est in the eyes of Qualification Framework
“yardstick” for determining on the recommendation
law” and “ineffective in (NHEQF) as a part of
the inadequacy of made by Justice A K Rajan
law, insofar as the period the National Education
representation for granting committee. A K Rajan
beyond the remainder of Policy (NEP) 2020 to
reservation in promotions was a retired High Court
the stated Session in which assess students at different
for Scheduled Caste (SC)/ judge. The committee
the resolution came to be levels. The NEP 2020 aims
Scheduled Tribe (ST) recommended that NEET
passed”. In this case, The at making “India a global
candidates in government undermines the diverse
MLAs were suspended knowledge superpower”.
jobs. The court’s judgement social representation in the
for misbehaviour in the Given the size of the higher
came in a batch of petitions medical and dental field.
Assembly pertaining to education system and the
from across the country
disclosure of data regarding Source:https://
seeking further clarity on
OBCs. The challenge to indianexpress.com/article/
the modalities for granting
diversity of institutions and of proposals, proposed by Justices S Abdul Nazeer hang gliding, paragliding,
programmes of study in the Commission and was and Krishna Murari said micro-lighting,para-
India, the country needs to shared with five associate this while quashing an motoring, skydiving, and
move towards developing members’ viz., five J&K Lok FIR against the in-laws vintage aircraft.
a nationally accepted Sabha MPs. of a woman who had
and internationally accused them and her
Source: https://www. gktoday.in/topic/draft-
comparable and acceptable husband of cruelty and
tribuneindia.com/ national-air-sports-
qualifications framework harassment for dowry.
ne ws/j-k/delimitation- policy-20/
to facilitate transparency The Court highlighted
commission-prop os es-
and comparability of higher the growing misuse of 11.
Recently, the Karnataka
major-changes-in-jk-
education qualifications at Section 498A IPC, with High Court delivered
constituencies-367292
all levels. The framework friction rising in marriages. a judgement striking
is not intended to promote 8. The Haryana government The incorporation of down major portions
a uniform curriculum or released the draft of the section 498A was aimed of the Karnataka Police
national common syllabus. Haryana Prevention of at preventing cruelty (Amendment) Act, 2021
The purpose is to bring up/ Unlawful Conversion of committed upon a woman which banned online
elevate all HEIs (Higher Religious Bill, 2022. The by her husband and her gambling and skill-based
Education Institutions) bill aims at prohibiting in-laws by facilitating gaming platforms.Currently,
to a common level of religious conversions rapid state intervention. online gaming falls in a
benchmarking to ensure which are affected through The court held that there regulatory grey area and
that all institutions are misrepresentation, force, is an increased tendency there is no comprehensive
providing quality education. to employ provisions legislation with respect to
The draft framework has such as Section 498A IPC its legality. The Karnataka
outlined several learning as instruments to settle High Court struck down
level “descriptors” or personal scores against the the amendments to the
parameters based on which husband and his relatives. Karnataka Police Act on
students can be assessed at three major grounds:
Source: https://
every level. undue influence, coercion, Violation of fundamental
indianexpress.com/article/
allurement or by any
Source: https:// india/sec-498a-being-
fraudulent means or by
indianexpress.com/ used-to-settle-personal-
marriage or for marriage
article/india/ugc- scores-against-husband-
by making it an offense.
dr aft-nati ona l-hig her- his-kin-sc-7763471/
The Bill provides for greater
educational-qualification-
punishment for such
framework-7749951/
conversions in respect of
10. The Minister of State for
7. Recently, in its interim minors, women, Scheduled rights of trade and
Civil Aviation, Gen. Dr.
report, the Jammu Castes and the Scheduled commerce (Article 19),
V K Singh has released a
and Kashmir (J&K) Tribes. It also provides liberty and privacy (Article
draft national policy for
Delimitation Commission that the burden of proof 21), speech and expression
air sports in the country
has proposed significant as to whether a conversion (Article 19). Being
that will require entities
changes to the electoral map was not affected through manifestly arbitrary and
providing these services
of J&K. The delimitation misrepresentation, use irrational insofar as it did
and their equipment to be
exercise had started in of force, under threat, not distinguish between
registered, as well as be
undue influence, coercion, two different categories of
liable for penalties. The
allurement or by any games, i.e. games of skill
policy proposes a two-tier
fraudulent means or by and chance. The court
governance structure for
marriage or for marriage also held that the State
air sports in the country,
for the purpose of carrying government provided no
which will include an apex
out conversion lies on the evidence or data on whether
governing body called
accused. a sweeping ban was justified
the Air Sports Federation
June 2021 in the state. and neither constituted a
Source: https:// of India (ASFI) and
Delimitation Commission committee of experts to
indianexpress.com/article/ associations for each air
also redraw several of study the issue. The court
cities/chandigarh/haryana- sport. It will cover activities
existing constituencies. The also held that playing
council-of-ministers- like aerobatics, aero-
draft delimitation working online games could help in
approves-draft-anti- modelling, amateur-built
paper has been rejected building the character of
conversion-bill-7762689/ and experimental aircraft,
by National Conference an individual and enjoying
ballooning, drones, gliding,
(NC). It was second set 9. A bench of Supreme Court online gaming could also
fall within the contours of Chief Justice Munishwar

freedom of expression and Nath Bhandari in the
right to liberty and privacy presence of Chief Minister
guaranteed under the M.K. Stalin. Hailing from
constitution. Rajasthan, he is the 32nd
Indian Chief Justice of the
High Court and 43rd Chief
g k t o d a y. i n / t o p i c /
Justice if the 11 British
karnataka-hc-ban-
Chief Justices since August
on-online-gaming-
15, 1862 are also taken into
unconstitutional/
consideration.
12. Recently, the Parliamentary
standing committee on
thehindu.com/news/
home affairs has tabled a
national/tamil-nadu/
report on Police- training,
munishwar-nath-
modernisation and reforms.
bhandari-sworn-in-
The report highlights the
as-chief-justice-of-
madras-high-court/
article65048408.ece
14. The state of Texas is suing
Facebook’s parent company
Meta. In a lawsuit it has
alleged that Facebook
number of reforms required unlawfully captured the
and challenges faced by the biometric data of Texans
Police forces. The report for commercial purposes
asked the Centre to advice without their informed
states and Union Territories consent. The suit was filed
to create a road map for by Texas Attorney General
ensuring 33% representation Ken Paxton in the state
of women in police while district court and wants
expressing anguish over Facebook to pay penalties
their underrepresentation. for violating Texas’s state
It recommended offline privacy laws. It accused
and online modules to help Facebook of capturing
them de-stress through biometric information
yoga, exercises, counselling from videos and photos
and treatment. It also that users uploaded without
called for the separation consent and disclosing it
of investigation from law to others. The new lawsuit
and order to maintain was filed in a state court in
accountability and increase Marshall, Texas. It says that
police autonomy in probing 20.5 million people in Texas
crimes. have a Facebook account.
Facebook repeatedly
captured biometric
hindustantimes.com/
identifies of people without
india-news/create-
their consent many times.
road-map-for-33-
women-representation- Source: https://www.
in-police-says-house- gktoday.in/topic/texas-
panel-101644553900558. legal-suit-on-facebook-
html facial-recognition/
13. Tamil Nadu Governor R.N.
Ravi administered oath of
office to Madras High Court
UNION BUDGET 2022 HIGHLIGHTS |

SHARP HIKE IN CAPITAL EXPENDITURE;
NO CHANGES IN INCOME TAX
Here are sector-wise be expanded by 25,000 kms in hectare of farmer land Tax, economy and finance
highlights of the 2022 Union 2022-23.
Budget presented by Finance Education Green bonds will be issued for
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman National Master Plan on upping green infrastructure.
Expressways will be formulated Digital University will be
Union Finance Minister in 2022-23 established, and to be made Fiscal deficit is 6.9% of GDP.
Nirmala Sitharaman presented in different Indian languages,
400 new generation based on networked hub Taxpayers can file within 2
the Union Budget 2022 on years an updated return if
February 1. She said that the Vande Bharat trains to be model.
manufactured in next 3 years. there is any anomaly in their
Budget proposals for this One Class, One TV channel filing.
financial year rest on health 60 km of ropeway projects will be expanded from 12 to
and well-being, infrastructure, under the Parvat Mala project 200 TV Channels to provide Cooperative societies pay
inclusive development, energy supplementary education in 18.5% alternate minimum tax
transition and climate action, Metro systems, muti-model all regional languages, to make and companies pay 15%. From
financing of investments and connectivity up for loss of formal education now cooperative too will have
‘Minimum Government, due to Covid. to pay only 15%.
Maximum Governance’. India’s 100 Gati Shakti cargo
economic growth estimated terminals in the next 3 years. Defence Surcharge has also been
at 9.2% to be the highest reduced to 7% for those
Agriculture 68% capital procurement cooperative having income 1 to
among all large economies.
60 lakh new jobs to be created budget earmarked for domestic 10 crores.
Procurement of wheat,
under the productivity linked procurement.
paddy, kharif and rabi crops, Tax relief to persons with
incentive scheme in 14 sectors. benefiting over 1 crore farmers. Defence R&D to be opened up disabilities.
for start ups, private industry
NABARD to facilitate fund Tax deduction limit for
and academia. 25% of R&D
with blended capital to finance NPS account of state govt
Significant announcements budget to be set aside for this.
startups for agriculture & rural employees to 14%.
include digital currency,
enterprise. Private industry will be
e-passports and a slew of
encouraged to take up design Virtual digital assets will be
infrastructure projects. Edible ₹2.37 lakh crore towards
and development of military brought under tax regime.
oil, wearable electronics, direct payments for minimum
imitation jewellery, polished platforms and equipment. Long term capital gains
support price.
diamond are to be cheaper. surcharge will be capped at
Developments on the digital
Fiscal deficit is 6.9% of GDP. Chemical-free, natural farming 15%.
front
Tax relief announced to to be promoted across the
persons with disabilities. No country. RBI to introduce ‘digital rupee’ Custom duty on cut and
change in personal income tax using blockchain technology in polished diamond reduced to
rates. 2022 to be Year of Millet - 5%.
2022-23.
support for post-harvest value
Here are the highlights of the addition for millet products Virtual digital assets to be Custom duty on imitation duty
Budget in a glance: taxed at 30%. slashed.
Using Kisan drones for crop
Infrastructure assessment and spraying of Gift of virtual assets will be Duty on Sodium cyanide
pesticides taxed at the receiver’s end. increased.
PM Gati Shakti National
Master Plan at a cost of Ken-Betwa river linking 75 digital banking units to be Duty on umbrellas raised to
₹20,000 crore project at a cost of Rs 44,000 set up across 75 districts. 20%.
crore, to benefit 9.0 lakh
National Highways network to Steel scrap duty extended for
Bhopal
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another year. National Digital Health Integrated benefits to women 2022-23 under Har Ghar, Nal
Ecosystem to be rolled out. and children through Mission se Jal.
Anti-dumping on stainless Shakti, Mission Vatsalya,
steel is being revoked. National Tele Mental Health Saksham Anganwadi and Source: https://www thehindu.
program to be set up to focus Poshan 2.0. com/business/budget/
Duty reduced on shrimp on mental health. india-union-budget-2022-
aquaculture. Rs. 60,000 crore allocated to highlights/article38357934.
23 tele mental health centres of cover 3.8 crore households in ece
Health and Sanitation excellence.
“INSTALL CCTV CAMERAS IN ALL POLICE

STATIONS INCLUDING INTERROGATION
ROOMS BY MAY 10”: HC DIRECTS PUNJAB,
HARYANA & UT CHANDIGARH
The Punjab and Haryana the Punjab and Haryana High the matter to 1April 18, 2022 Kaushal’s name recently
High Court on Monday Court to implement the order and directed that the affidavits cropped up in the murder
directed the States of Punjab, of the Supreme Court. be filed by the Additional Chief of Youth Akali Leader Vicky
Haryana, and UT Chandigarh Secretary/ Principal Secretary/ Middhukhera in Mohali
to install CCTV cameras in Thereafter, on February 21, Secretary Home of each State/ and the Rohini court firing
all police stations including UT Chandigarh sought a 6 Union Territory, with regard to incident.
the interrogation rooms with months time to implement the the progress made at that stage.
18 months storage by May 10, Order of the Supreme Court, Appearances: Mr. Amandeep
2022. however, the Court did not The High Court has also asked Singh Jawanda, Advocate
find any ground to grant that DGPs of Punjab, Haryana and for the petitioner (in CRWP
The Bench of Justice Amol much time to UT Chandigarh. U.T. Chandigarh to file an No.5521 of 2021). Mr.
Rattan Singh has issued this affidavit whether instructions Sourabh Goel, Advocate for
order in view of the directions The Court added that the have been issued so far or not the petitioner (in CRWP
issued by the Supreme Court’s States of Punjab and Haryana with regard to what had been No.6437 of 2021). Mr. Bipin
order in Paramvir Singh Saini have been directed to complete directed by this Court in its Ghai, Senior Advocate
v. Baljit Singh and others the work in terms of the order dated 07.01.2022, to with Mr. Prabhdeep Singh
(2021) 1 SCC 184. In this Bindra, Advocate, and Mr.
case, the Supreme Court had Rishabh Singla, Advocate for
directed the State and Union the petitioner (in CRM-M
Territory Governments to No.43672 of 2021). Mr.
ensure that CCTV cameras Deepak Sabherwal, Addl.
are installed in each and every A.G., Haryana and Mr. Neeraj
Police Station functioning Poswal, AAG, Haryana. Mr.
under them. P.S. Bajwa, Addl. A.G., Punjab
directions of the Supreme the effect that all reports to and Mr. Manreet Singh
Last month, the High Court Court by 10.05.2022, and be submitted under Section Nagra, A.A.G., Punjab. Mr.
had made it clear that as therefore, the UT would also 173 Cr.P.C would specifically Rajeev Anand, Addl. PP, UT,
per the directions of the do the same by that date. state by giving details, of how Chandigarh.
Supreme Court, no part of the provisions of Section 41B,
the police stations should Failing which, the Court Case title - Kamla Devi v. State
41C, 41D, 54, 55, 55A of Cr.P.C
be left uncovered by CCTV clarified that appropriate of Punjab and others along
have been complied with, in
surveillance and this CCTV action, if need be, under the with connected pleas
each investigation for all the
Coverage would necessarily provisions of the Contempt of
accused. Source: https://www.
include the interrogation Courts Act, 1971, may need to
rooms. be taken against all concerned The Court issued these livelaw.in/news-updates/
in both the States of Punjab directions on a plea filed by install-cctv-cameras-police-
Further, on February 9, 20221, and Haryana and the UT, Gangster Kaushal alleging stations-interrogation-rooms-
the Punjab and Haryana States Chandigarh. that he is being tortured by may-10-hc-punjab-haryana-
had submitted a timeline in the police in their custody. ut-chandigarh-192733
With this, the Court adjourned
“GOVT HOSPITALS CAN’T DENY

TREATMENT ON THE GROUND OF PLACE
OF RESIDENCE”: PUNJAB AND HARYANA
HIGH COURT
The Punjab and Haryana High well. However, subsequently, where the hospital is situated. to respondents to provide
Court recently clarified that she was turned out from the necessary medical treatment/
a government Hospital can’t hospital refusing her treatment In view of this, the Court advice to the petitioner,
deny treatment to someone on on the ground that she was not observed thus: in normal course, as and
the ground that he/she is not a a resident of UT Chandigarh. when she approaches the
“Otherwise, also, the
resident of the area where the respondent-hospital.
Therefore, she moved the petitioner cannot be subjected
hospital is located. to discrimination only on
High Court with the instant The counsel for the UT
The Bench of Justice Rajbir writ petition seeking issuance the ground of her place of Chandigarh was further
Sehrawat observed this in a of a writ in the nature of residence. That, in fact, is requested to take the petitioner
matter wherein a pregnant mandamus, directing the a direct violation of the to the hospital and to ensure
woman was denied medical respondents to provide fundamental right of the that the necessary treatment of
petitioner. Denying her
treatment by a Government medical treatment. treatment on the above-said the petitioner is started with
Hospital in Chandigarh on the ground also violates her right immediate effect.
ground that she is a resident of During the course of the to life and liberty without
Punjab and not a resident of hearing, even the counsel there being any justifiable Source: https://www.
the UT Chandigarh. for the respondents-UT reason. This decision or even livelaw.in/news-updates/
Chandigarh could not point tendency of Government govt-hospitals-cant-deny-
Essentially, the petitioner (who out any law, which entitles a medical facility cannot be treatment-ground-place-
is 5 months pregnant) had Government hospital to drive countenanced; by any means.” residence-punjab-haryana-
approached a Government out the patients by denying high-court-192759
Hospital in Chandigarh. and them medical treatment only Agaisnt this backdrop,
she was registered as a patient because of the fact that they the Court the petition was
at the hospital for treatment as do not reside within the area disposed of with a direction
ONE INDIVIDUAL CAN’T HOLD TWO

BIRTH CERTIFICATES, IDENTITY IS
ESTABLISHED NOT ONLY BY NAME &
PARENTAGE BUT ALSO BY DATE OF BIRTH:
DELHI HIGH COURT
The Delhi High Court has counsel appearing for the On this, the counsel for “Further, interest of justice also
observed that an individual petitioner that in the entire petitioner submitted that demands that one of the two
cannot be permitted to educational record of the father of the petitioner was an certificates be cancelled,” the
hold two birth certificates, petitioner the correct date illiterate person and was not Court added.
reasoning that the identity of a of birth was mentioned, aware of the error committed
person is established not only however, in the passport, it by him. Therefore, the petition was
by name and parentage but was mentioned as November disposed of with a direction to
also by date of birth. 1, 2002. “Petitioner is holding two the respondent for revoking or
birth certificates with two canceling the birth certificate
“Continuance of two birth The counsel appearing for different dates of birth. One dated September 24, 2013 with
certificates containing two the respondent Corporation individual cannot be permitted the date of birth November 1,
different dates of birth would submitted that there was no to hold two birth certificates 2002.
imply that one individual rule providing for cancellation containing two different
can pose as two different
individuals; which error
cannot be permitted to
perpetuate,” Justice Sanjeev
Sachdeva observed.
The Court was dealing with

a plea seeking a direction to
the Deputy Commissioner
of South Delhi Municipal
Corporation to cancel the birth
certificate of the petitioner
issued on September 24, 2013.
It was contended by the

petitioner that he was born in
his village the birth certificate
was issued at that time
erroneously mentioned his
date of birth as November 1,
2002 instead of November 1,
2001.
of a birth certificate. birth dates as the identity of a Case Title: VIPIN
The petitioner therefore
person is established not only SEHRAWAT v. DEPUTY
submitted that he had two
It was argued that both the by his name and parentage but COMMISSIONER SDMC
birth certificates, one, dated
certificates dated September also by his date of birth,” the
September 24, 2013 where the Source: https://www.livelaw.
24, 2013 and October 30, Court said.
date of birth was erroneously in/news-updates/delhi-
2015 were issued based on
shown as November 1, high-court-one-individual-
the reports of the District Accordingly, the Court was of
2002 and the another birth two-birth-certificates-
Magistrate certifying the date the view that in public interest,
certificate dated October 30, identity-192599
of birth which was in turn one of the birth certificates
2015 where the correct date of
based on the information of the petitioner must be
birth was mentioned.
provided by the father of the cancelled.
It was thus pointed out by petitioner.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ‘SEAT’ & ‘VENUE’

OF ARBITRATION: ALLAHABAD HIGH
COURT EXPLAINS
The Allahabad High Court proceeded with the case and does not specifies the “Seat stated that Clause 10.6 of the
while adjudicating upon a issued notice to the petitioner. of Arbitration”. Thus, in the agreement confers exclusive
petition filed under Article absence of the specified “Seat jurisdiction to the courts of
227 of the Constitution of The petitioner then moved of Arbitration” in arbitral Gautam Budh Nagar, and
India discussed the difference an application before agreement, the venue of venue of arbitration which
between ‘Seat’ and ‘Venue’ the Commercial Court, arbitration will be the juridical in the present case is New
of Arbitration in the light of questioning the legality seat of arbitration proceedings Delhi, was merely a convenient
several judicial precedents. and validity of arbitration and as such, the impugned location to carry out the
proceedings under Section 34 proceedings under Section arbitration proceedings.
Justice Siddharth clarified, of the Act in Gautam Budh 34 of the Arbitration and
Nagar. The same came to be Conciliation Act, challenging Further, it was contended that
“The term “seat” is of utmost dismissed, following which, the petitioner had himself
the arbitral award is not
importance as it connotes the the petitioner approached submitted to the jurisdiction
maintainable in District-
situs of arbitration. The term the High Court through the of the Courts in Uttar Pradesh,
Gautam Budh Nagar, rather it
“venue” is often confused present petition. at the very first instance, since
is maintainable in the court at
with the term “seat” but it is he had preferred an application
Delhi.
more a place often chosen as The issue to be decided by the under Section 11 before the
convenient location by the High Court was whether the He further submitted that Allahabad Court, pursuant
parties to carry out arbitration Commercial Court at Gautam Section 36 of the Arbitration to which the arbitrator was
proceedings but should not be appointed.
confused with “seat”. The term
“seat” carries more weight than Precedents
“venue” or “place”.”
The High Court pointed out
Background that initially, the juridical seat
of arbitration, as a concept,
The dispute between the did not find a place in the
Petitioner and the Respondent Arbitration Act of 1940.
pertained to payments in “While Section 20 of the
respect of an apartment. 1996 Act granted parties the
When the matter reached autonomy to choose 13 the
the stage of Arbitration, the ‘place’ of arbitration. It did
Petitioner claimed that as so in an ambiguous manner
per the agreement, in case of without distinguishing
Budh Nagar has jurisdiction Act provides that the arbitral
any dispute arising between between ‘seat’ and ‘venue’,” it
to hear the case u/s 34 of the award shall be enforced under
the parties, the place of the noted.
Arbitration and Conciliation the relevant provisions of
arbitration will be at “New
Act, 1996 regarding the arbitral CPC in the same manner Addressing this ambiguity, the
Delhi”.
award passed by sole arbitrator, as if it were a decree of the 246th Law Commission Report
Subsequently, the High Court having its venue at New Delhi, court. In the present case, suggested replacing the words
appointed a sole arbitrator, which has been specified in the the application for execution ‘place’ for ‘seat’ or ‘venue.’
having its seat at New Delhi, arbitration agreement (not as can be filed before any court However, the Court recollected
which partly allowed the claim the seat of arbitration). where the said decree/award that these amendments were
of the petitioner. can be executed. Thus, filing not enacted. As a result, the
Petitioner
of execution proceedings in conflict between the juridical
Assailing the arbitral award,
The counsel for the petitioner the Court at District- Gautam seat and jurisdiction of the
the respondent preferred an
argued that “Venue of Budh Nagar is not tenable in court persisted along with the
Arbitration Application under
Arbitration” proceedings has law. confusion pertaining to the
Section 34 of Arbitration
been chosen to be at “New distinction between ‘seat’ and
and Conciliation Act, before Respondent
Delhi” by both the parties ‘venue’.
District Judge, Gautam Budh
and the arbitration clause The counsel for the respondent
Nagar (Uttar Pradesh), which Finally, in 2009, the English
judgment of Shashoua (2009) (i) courts possessing the to shifting of the place/ seat of would be the courts of Gautam
EWHC 957 held that the seat subject-matter/cause of action arbitration. Buddh Nagar, U.P. It was
of arbitration is to have an jurisdiction and agreed that the “venue” of
exclusive jurisdiction over From the above, the High arbitration shall be New Delhi,
all proceedings that arise out (ii) courts where the place/seat Court concluded that the India.
of the arbitration. It laid the of arbitration was designated. Supreme Court judgment
significant contrary indicia regarding the “seat” and “This exception regarding
However, the principle of “venue” controversy in the case Clause 10.9 constitutes
test as per which a place of concurrent jurisdiction
arbitration is a stipulation of BALCO (supra) still holds “significant contrary indica”
was not intended to replace good. as per Shashoua principle in
that such place shall be the the principle of ‘significant
seat of the arbitration and agreement regarding treating
contrary indicia.’ The existence “The Hon’ble Supreme Court the “venue” of arbitration (New
consequently determine the of multiple venues was only in the case of BALCO (supra)
lex fori in the absence of any Delhi) as “seat” of arbitration
perceived to be a matter of clearly held that there was proceedings (Gautam Buddh
significant contrary indicia. convenience. concurrent jurisdiction Nagar) where the cause of
This position was confirmed conferred on the courts ceased action arose,” the High Court
Even though the Supreme with the subject matter in
by a Division Bench of the held.
Court expressed a different dispute and the courts where
Supreme Court of India in view in two subsequent
Roger Shashoua & Ors v. the arbitration was carried In view of the above
judgments, the High Court out. However, such concurrent consideration, it is held
Mukesh Sharma & Ors., (2017) noted that in the recent
14 SCC 722. jurisdictions will not replace that the order passed by the
decisions in BGS SGS Soma the “significant contrary indica Commercial Court, Gautam
Subsequently, in Bharat JV vs NHPC Ltd and M/s test” as per the Shashoua Buddh Nagar, is in accordance
Aluminium Co v. Kaiser Inox Renewables Ltd. v. Jayesh principle,” the High Court with law.
Aluminium Technical Services Electricals Ltd., a Division observed.
Inc. (BALCO judgment), the Bench of the Supreme Court Case Title: Hasmukh Prajapati
Supreme Court acknowledged reiterated the “Shashoua Findings v. Jai Prakash Associates
that the terms ‘seat’ and ‘place’ Principle”, and clarified that Ltd. Through Its Managing
venue of arbitration will be Coming to the merits of the Director
can be used interchangeably. It present case, the Court noted
held while laying the principle the juridical seat of arbitration
in the absence of contrary that the arbitration agreement Source: https://www.livelaw.
of ‘concurrent jurisdiction’ clearly shows that the parties in/news-updates/allahabad-
that two courts can have intention of the parties.
Further, a shift in venue by agreed as per Clause 10.6 high-court-seat-and-venue-
jurisdiction over arbitration that the governing law and of-arbitration-193056
applications viz. mutual agreement between
the parties would tantamount the jurisdiction of the courts
DENIAL OF PHYSICAL RELATIONSHIP

BY SPOUSE AMOUNTS TO CRUELTY:
CHHATTISGARH HIGH COURT GRANTS
DIVORCE UNDER HINDU MARRIAGE ACT
The Chhattisgarh High Court “it is apparent that from other amounts to cruelty. a), (i-b), and (iii) of the Hindu
has held that denial of physical August, 2010 there was no Hence, we are of the view that Marriage Act, 1955.
relationship by one spouse to relationship as husband and appellant was treated with
the other in a matrimonial wife between two, which is cruelty by respondent wife.” Background
relationship constitutes cruelty. sufficient to draw an inference
The development ensued in an The appellant got married
Holding thus, it allowed the that there was no physical
appeal preferred under Section to the respondent in
plea for divorce made by the relationship between them.
19(1) of the Family Courts Bilaspur. After marriage, the
husband in this case. Physical relationship between
Act, 1984 by the husband, respondent-wife came to her
husband and wife is one of
A Division Bench of Justices challenging the judgment of matrimonial home and resided
the important part for healthy
P. Sam Koshy and Partha Family Court dismissing his there. After a few months
married life. Denial of physical of marriage, the respondent
Prateem Sahu observed, relationship to a spouse by plea for divorce on the grounds
enumerated in Section 13(1)(i- went to her parental home to
celebrate some festivals. This The Court noted that the spouse for relationship may and what would be considered
became a recurrence that she language used under Section be one of grounds of treating to accept the plea of mental
would continuously go to her 13 of the 1955 Act is clear and other spouse with cruelty.” cruelty. It noted,
parental home on all important unambiguous that before filing
days, such as birthdays and an application for divorce on The Court noted that mental “Mental cruelty and its
festivals, for four years. the ground of desertion, the cruelty is not specifically effect cannot be calculated
period of desertion by either defined under the 1955 Act. in an arithmetical manner,
Therefore, the plaintiff/ spouse should not be less than Still, it has to be ascertained it varies from individual to
appellant applied Section 13 two years. from the nature of one spouse’s individual; society to society
(1) (i-a), (i-b), and (iii) of the act, behavior, and conduct and also from the status of
Act of 1955 before Family Noting that from the against another. It referred a person. Agonized feeling
Court, Bilaspur seeking pleadings, it is evident that to the case of Jayachandra or for that matter of sense
dissolution of marriage dated application for grant of divorce v. Aneel Kaur, where it was of disappointment can take
25.11.2007 by way of a decree is filed within four months of held that mental cruelty is place by certain acts causing a
of divorce. desertion by the respondent, a state of mind and feeling grievous dent at mental level.
the Court held that as per with one of the spouses due Inference has to be drawn from
The grounds raised in the provisions contained in to behavior or behavior the attending circumstances.”
plaint were that within a few
days of marriage conduct
of the respondent was of
treating the appellant with
cruelty; she was continuously
harassing him mentally, saying
that he had a bulky physique
and was not good-looking.
Moreover, after the death of
the appellant’s father, she went
back to her parents’ house
resided there continuously
for about four years; during
this period, whenever the
appellant contacted her on
mobile phone and asked her to
come back, she used to ask the
appellant to come and settle in
Bemetara, place of residence of
respondent’s parents.
The respondent-wife also

took a job without informing
Section 13 (1) (i-b) of the Act patterns by others. Unlike In the instant case, the Court
the petitioner. It is argued
of 1955, an application filed the case of physical cruelty, noted that there was no
that it was clarified that the
by the appellant for a grant mental cruelty is difficult to physical relationship between
respondent would not be doing
of divorce on the ground of establish by direct evidence. the parties, due to denial of
any job at the time of marriage.
desertion is not maintainable. It is necessarily a matter of the same by the Respondent,
Findings of the Court inference to be drawn from which would constitute cruelty
On the question of cruelty on the facts and circumstances on the Appellant.
The Court noted that Section the ground of not establishing of the case. The inference has Case Name: Navodit Mishra &
12 (1) (i-b) of the 1955 Act a relationship as husband and to be drawn from attending Anr v. Richa Mishra
envisages that a divorce wife and exchange of words facts and circumstances taken
decree can be granted on the between them, the Court noted cumulatively. Source: https://www.
ground that another party has that, livelaw.in/news-updates/
deserted the petitioner for a Referring to several decisions
“Cohabitation between chhattisgarh-high-court-
continuous period of not less of the Supreme Court, it was
husband and wife is one of denial-of-physical-
than two years immediately held that it is not defined to
essential part of a marriage relationship-by-spouse-
preceding the presentation of indicate what mental cruelty is
and not submitting by either cruelty-divorce-193040
the petition.
EXPLAINED: HOW BIG IS INSURGENCY

THREAT IN MANIPUR?
Defence Minister Rajnath of Kangleipak (PREPAK), In 1980, the Centre declared Organisation (KNO) and
Singh, while addressing an Kangleipak Communist Party the entire Manipur as a United People’s Front (UPF),
election rally on February 14 (KCP), and Kanglei Yawol “disturbed area” and imposed also signed the tripartite
in Imphal West, called upon Kanna Lup (KYKL), among the controversial Armed Suspension of Operation
insurgency groups operating in others. These valley-based Forces Special Powers Act (SoO) pacts with the GoI and
Manipur to shun violence and outfits have been demanding (AFSPA) to suppress the Manipur on August 22, 2008.
come to the negotiating table. an independent Manipur. insurgency movement, which Of the total 25 armed Kuki
He said the Centre is ready remains in force till date. groups operating in the state,
to hold dialogue with them The Naga movement in 17 are under the KNO and
to bring lasting peace to the neighbouring Nagaland In the early 1990s, the ethnic 8 under the United Peoples’
region. spilled over into Manipur’s clashes between Nagas and Front (UPF). However, major
hill districts with the NSCN- Kukis led to the formation of valley-based militant outfits
The defence minister said IM controlling most of it several Kuki insurgent groups, (Meitei groups) such as the
Manipur has been pushing while pressing for “Nagalim” which have now scaled down UNLF, PLA, KYKL etc. are
for development from the (Greater Nagaland), which their demand from a separate yet to come to the negotiating
front and that the menace of is perceived in the valley Kuki state to a Territorial table. Many of their smaller
insurgency had been waning. as a “threat” to Manipur’s Council. outfits have however entered
“We are ready for dialogue “territorial integrity”. the SoO agreement with the
with insurgency groups The further continuance
state government, which
because all the problems has launched rehabilitation
vexing this region should be programmes for such groups.
resolved, be it unemployment,
poverty, among others,” he Source: https://indianexpress.
said. com/article/explained/how-
big-is-insurgency-threat-in-
Rise of insurgency in Manipur manipur-7786366/
The emergence of insurgency
in Manipur dates back to 1964
with the formation of the
United National Liberation
Front (UNLF), which still
remains one of the formidable
militant outfits.
The rise of separatist

In subsequent years, Manipur of insurgency led to the
insurgency in Manipur
had been caught in a spiral of formation of smaller outfits
mainly attributed to perceived
violence as various militant like the Zeliangrong United
discontent over alleged
outfits carried out deadly Front (ZUF), People’s United
“forced” merger of Manipur
attacks on security forces or Liberation Front (PULF) and
with the Union of India
engaged in factional clashes. other splinter groups.
and the subsequent delay
in granting it full-fledged While the hills account for Ceasefire agreement
statehood. While the erstwhile nine-tenths of Manipur’s
Kingdom of Manipur was geographical area, they are The NSCN-IM entered a
merged with India on October sparsely populated, with ceasefire agreement with the
15, 1949, it became a state only most of the state’s population Government of India (GoI)
in 1972. concentrated in the valley. in 1997, even as peace talks
The Meitei community forms between them have still been
The later years saw a slew continuing.
a majority in Imphal valley,
of militant outfits being
while the surrounding hill Similarly, the Kuki outfits
formed, including the People’s
districts are inhabited by Nagas under two umbrella
Liberation Army (PLA),
and Kukis. groups, the Kuki National
People’s Revolutionary Party
EXPLAINED | HOW DID THE ABG

SHIPYARD FRAUD HAPPEN?
The story so far: In early industry. The SBI, recounting accounts as a non-performing Kumar (Director), Sushil
February, the Central Bureau the history of this case in its asset, but backdated with effect Kumar Agarwal (Director),
of Investigation (CBI) filed complaint letter to the CBI, from November 30, 2013. and Ravi Vimal Nevetia
a first information report traces the crisis to a fall in (Director) — “have colluded
(FIR) against the former top commodity demand and prices After such a declaration, together and committed illegal
officials of ABG Shipyard in and, subsequently, a fall in in 2017, ICICI successfully activities including diversion
the biggest known case of bank cargo demand. This, it says, introduced insolvency of funds, misappropriation
fraud in the country. Former led to order cancellations and proceedings against ABG and criminal breach of trust
officials have been charged an inventory pile-up, which Shipyard at the National and for purposes other than
with causing “wrongful loss” then reflected in the books as a Company Law Tribunal, for the purpose for which
of ₹22,842 crore to an ICICI severe financial problem. which in April 2019 ordered the funds are released by the
Bank-led consortium of banks its liquidation. That process bank.” However, the letter also
that also includes the State With the situation worsening, is still underway, the SBI in a said that “the involvement of
Bank of India. The Congress in March 2014, the high statement said a few days ago. unknown persons and public
has accused the Bharatiya debt-laden ABG Shipyard The claim amount for ICICI servants may also be examined
Janata Party government undertook a Corporate Bank from ABG Shipyard during investigation.”
of a delay in filing the FIR, Debt Restructuring scheme, is ₹7,089 crore; IDBI Bank
an allegation the BJP has according to which its lenders comes next (₹3,639 crore), The Hindu reported that
dismissed. Earlier, in 2018, gave it a breather by allowing followed by SBI (₹2,925 crore). the “funds were allegedly
diamond merchants Nirav for a brief moratorium on This is as per the data shared used for unstated purposes,
Modi and Mehul Choksi investments were made
had committed fraud using through a Singapore-based
unauthorised letters of subsidiary and there were
undertaking that caused a loss payouts running into hundreds
of more than ₹11,000 crore to of crores to related parties.
Punjab National Bank. Properties were also bought
from the funds provided by
When did troubles at ABG ABG Shipyard.”
Shipyard begin?
The SBI filed the first
ABG Shipyard, which just complaint in November 2019.
about a decade ago called itself Even though ICICI Bank
India’s largest shipbuilding led the consortium, it was
and ship repair company in SBI that filed a complaint,
the private sector, saw an interest rates, an extension by the SBI in its complaint it being the largest public
accelerated fall in its financial of the repayment period, a letter. sector bank among ABG
well-being after 2011-12, reduction in interest rates, Shipyard bankers. A recent
the year in which it made its among other such measures. When did the scam take SBI statement says there was
highest revenues. Within two By the next year, when it place? “continuous engagement” with
years of that, it had slipped incurred a huge loss of over the CBI after this. The second
into losses. By 2014-15, its The fraud came to light when complaint, which clarified
₹900 crore, its long-term Ernst&Young (EY), which
revenues were just one-sixth borrowings, largely from some of the questions raised
of its peak. In its heyday, ABG was appointed as a forensic by the investigating agency,
banks, had crossed ₹4,300 auditor in 2018, submitted its
Shipyard regularly highlighted crore. was filed in August 2020. This
its ability to construct all report in January 2019. The was the basis of the FIR that
types of quality ships, offshore The debt restructuring exercise period studied was between came about in the first week of
rigs and specialised vessels. failed, with the company itself April 2012 and July 2017. The February.
It also got orders from the admitting in a BSE notice report, the SBI letter says,
Government. that it had defaulted in loan reveals that the accused — Almost all the banks in the
payment as well as in the Rishi Kamlesh Agarwal (who consortium had reported the
The fall in its fortunes is terms of the scheme. This was was the Chairman and MD), account as fraud within about
linked to the global crisis that when the consortium of banks Santhanam Muthaswamy a year of the EY forensic audit
impacted the whole shipping declared the ABG Shipyard (Executive Director), Ashwini report. The first to do so was
Exim Bank (March 2019). This referred to the EY report, information is gathered. In a (NPA). After that, because
was followed by ICICI Bank which again was the very few cases, when substantial a consortium of banks have
(April 2019). SBI did so in June basis of the first complaint. additional information is had business with them, they
that year. One other CBI query in the gathered, a second complaint have all sat together to see how
March 2020 follow-up raised incorporating full and best any restructuring can be
What were the clarifications the issue of consent of other complete details is filed which done, which is a due process
sought by the CBI after the consortium members in filing forms the basis for the FIR,” it done for any account under
SBI’s first complaint? the complaint. This, the SBI said in the release. stress — more so because it’s
responded to by saying it a big account and also was
In March 2020, the CBI had What is the Opposition
hadn’t received the mandate of becoming an NPA.” She said,
sought clarifications on the saying?
the other members at the time “However, overall, not just
SBI’s initial complaint. The first
of filing of the first complaint for this account, in general,
of these pointed to the absence Congress general secretary
but that many of them had for any account it takes 52 to
of any internal investigation. Randeep Singh Surjewala
provided consent for the same 54 months to scrutinise it. To
The SBI responded to this has asked why an FIR wasn’t
in meetings thereon. the banks’ credit they have
by pointing to the process lodged despite the liquidation
taken lesser time than what is
by which it declared the The SBI has claimed in a process starting five years ago,
normally the average to detect
account a fraud. This, notably, release that at no point was and the account being declared
this kind of fraud.”
happened some months there any effort to delay the a fraud in 2019.
before its first complaint process to recover the dues. Source: https://www.
letter. The CBI follow-up also Finance Minister Nirmala
“Typically when fraud is thehindu.com/news/national/
had a query on the timing Sitharaman, in response,
declared, an initial complaint explained-how-did-the-abg-
and specific instances of the has said, “In fact November
is preferred with the CBI, and shipyard-fraud-happen/
fraud. To this, the SBI has 2013 is when it was declared
based on their inquiries further article65065544.ece
a non-performing asset
EXPLAINED | HARYANA’S PRIVATE SECTOR

RESERVATION LAW AND THE SKEPTICISM
AROUND IT
The story so far: Setting aside government to not take growth, the Haryana upper limit to ₹30,000, on
an interim order passed by coercive steps against those government, a coalition of receiving opposition from
the Punjab and Haryana High companies who do not comply the BJP and Jannayak Janata industrialists.
Court on February 3 staying with the law till the matter is Party meanwhile, maintains
the State law that reserves resolved. that the act will open up ample The 75% domicile quota in
75% of private sector jobs employment opportunities for private sector employment was
paying up to 30,000 a month While hearing the petition the youth in the state. an election promise made in
for Haryana’s local residents, filed by the Faridabad 2019 Assembly elections by
the Supreme Court said on Industries Association and two What does the reservation law Jannayak Janata party leader
February 17 that the High other industry associations entail? and Haryana Deputy Chief
Court had not provided from Haryana, who challenged Minister Dushyant Chautala.
the constitutionality of the The Haryana State The Bill was passed by the
“sufficient reasons” for putting Employment of Local
the law on hold. law, a Bench of the Punjab and State Legislative Assembly in
Haryana High Court had said: Candidates Act, 2020, which November 2020, and given the
Steering clear of getting into “The core issue is whether any was enacted in November last Governor’s assent in March
the merits of the case, the apex State can restrict employment year and came into force on 2021.
court asked the High Court (even in the private sector) on January 15 this year, makes
to expeditiously decide on the the basis of domicile”, adding it mandatory for employers All private entities considered
writ petition filed before it by that keeping this issue in mind, in the State to reserve 75% of as “employers” in the state
industry bodies, not exceeding it was constrained to stay the jobs paying less than ₹30,000 a fall under the ambit of the
a period of four weeks from law. month, for local residents. The law, meaning it will apply
February 17. The Bench of State government originally to all companies, trusts,
Justices L Nageswara Rao and While Industry bodies have said that the reservation would societies, partnerships and
Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha contended that the law will apply to jobs paying up to limited liability partnerships.
also directed the Haryana adversely affect industrial ₹50,000, but later revised the Any individual or employer
who has 10 or more persons already working with them in verification. The companies raised about it?
working under them in any the ₹30,000 monthly salary found to be violating the Act
factory, trade, business or bracket, and can only start are liable to a fine between Job reservation Bills or laws
enterprise will also be covered recruiting new employees in ₹10,000 and ₹2 Lakh. for domiciles have also been
under the law. the category after completing announced in other States
the registration process. The Companies could seek including Andhra Pradesh,
Under the law, a “local law would be applicable on exemption if they do not find Madhya Pradesh and
candidate” would be defined as new recruitments and would the adequate number of local Jharkhand. The job quota Bill
anyone domiciled in the State not be effective retrospectively. candidates for a particular passed in the Andhra Pradesh
of Haryana. The original draft The act would not be a skill or job role, but this claim Legislative Assembly in 2019,
of the Bill had the condition permanent legislation but can be rejected by concerned also reserving three-fourths
that only those who have remain in force for 10 years of government officials if they of private jobs for locals, was
resided in the State for the past being enacted. doubt its legitimacy. Employers challenged in the State’s High
15 years would be considered can also be directed to train Court, which observed that “it
local candidates but this was Employers have also been local youth in the required may be unconstitutional”.
later revised to 5 years. directed to file quarterly skill in the event of inadequate
reports on the digital portal, eligible candidates. The plea moved in the Haryana
The act requires job seekers updating it with details of and Punjab High Court by the
to register themselves on local residents recruited and Deputy CM Mr. Chautala also State’s industry associations
the government’s designated appointed in the prescribed spoke of the provision in the challenges the constitutional
online portal to avail the salary bracket in the previous law under which Information validity of the law, arguing that
benefits of the reservation, and quarter. These reports would Technology (IT) firms and it stands in violation of Article
companies can only hire new be subject to scrutiny by start-ups established after 19 of the Indian Constitution,
eligible employees through the designated officials, who January 15 this year, would be which guarantees the right to
said portal. will be empowered to ask exempted from the law for the freedom, including to reside
the employer to furnish next two years. and settle in any part of the
Meanwhile, employers would Indian territory and practise
the documents or conduct
have to register the employees What are the legal qualms
any profession, business or also arises if the Indira for private investment in the people domiciled in the State”,
trade. The plea also states Sawhney vs Union of India State and impede industrial adding that the enactment was
that the act violates Article case is considered, where the development. rooted in the problem of rising
14 (equality before law) and Supreme Court had capped unemployment in Haryana.
Article 15, which prohibits the reservation limit in public Manmohan Gaind, general
discrimination on various sector jobs at 50% in 1992. secretary, Manesar Industries “Industrialisation and
grounds religion, race, caste, Legal experts have said that Welfare Association, an urbanisation in the State
sex or place of birth. one may then contend that industry body in the state, had has led to huge land
the reservation limit in private earlier told The Hindu that the acquisition which resultantly
They also argued that the sector employment should law was “very very myopic of has reduced growth and
reservation was being not exceed that prescribed for the political class”, adding that employment opportunities
introduced by way of a public services. almost all of the employees in in the agriculture sector,” the
“sons of the soil” policy, MSMEs fell under the ₹30,000 government said, arguing that
which infringed upon the Why are industrialists pay bracket and considering the law will create new jobs for
constitutional rights of both skeptical? that such industries hire local youth.
employers and employees to and let go of workers as per
work anywhere in the country. Industrialists and industry demand, it would not always It has also said that the
Besides, the petitioners also bodies have expressed be possible to find local legislation will help decrease
pointed out that jobs in discontent with the law as employees when required. the dependence of businesses
the private sector are based they fear that it would affect on migrant workers, pointing
“purely” on the “skills and the competitiveness of private What is the government’s out that one of the biggest
the analytical bent” of the businesses by artificially argument? industries operating out of the
employee. controlling their internal State, Maruti Udyog Limited.,
functioning. Industrialists have The Haryana Government, “does not even have 20% staff
Legal commentators like said that it will also impact the while insisting that it has the from Haryana”.
Supreme Court lawyer Colin ease of doing business in the support of the industry barring
Gonsalves have been quoted State, aside from increasing a handful of entities, has said Source: https://www.
by The Wire, referring to the the compliance burden on that the law will benefit the thehindu.com/news/national/
law as “unconstitutional” employers. youth of the State. explained-haryanas-private-
adding that the domicile sector-reservation-law-and-
The Federation of Indian It submitted in the High the-skepticism-around-it/
requirement as high as 75% Court that the law has been
was “overwhelming”. Chambers of Commerce and article65059946.ece
Industry (FICCI) has said that brought in to “protect the
The question of permissibility the law would “spell disaster” right to life/livelihood of
EXPLAINED | THE GOVERNOR’S ROLE IN

APPROVING A BILL
The story so far: The Tamil There is no doubt that the suggested. If the Bill is passed President grants his assent.
Nadu Assembly has once Governor will now have to again, with or without changes, This will cure the ‘repugnancy’
again adopted a Bill that was grant his assent to the Bill. and presented for assent, “the between the central and State
earlier returned by Governor Under Article 200 of the Governor shall not withhold laws.
R.N. Ravi. The Bill seeks to Constitution, which deals assent therefrom”.
grant exemption from the with grant of assent to Bills What is the Governor’s
mandatory National Entrance- passed by the Assembly, In the present case, the Bill function in passing a Bill?
cum-Eligibility Test (NEET) the first proviso enables the will have to be sent to the
President for his assent, as it is Under Article 200, the
for seats allotted by the Governor to return a Bill, Governor may (a) grant
Government in undergraduate that is not a Money Bill, enacted under an entry in the
Concurrent List on a subject assent (b) withhold assent (c)
medical and dental courses with a message requesting return for reconsideration by
in Tamil Nadu. Last week, the the House, or Houses, if that is covered by a central law.
NEET is mandatory under the Legislature or (b) reserve
Governor returned the Bill, there is an upper chamber, for the consideration of the
contending that it was against to reconsider the Bill, or any Section 10D of the Indian
Medical Council of India Act, President any Bill passed
the interests of rural and poor provisions, and also consider by the State legislature and
students. introducing amendments he an amendment introduced
in 2016. Therefore, the State presented to him for assent.
may recommend. The House
What comes next? will have to reconsider as law can be in force only if the There is no timeframe
fixed in the Constitution withholds assent therefrom”. when Article 175 in the may want to recall its Bill,
for any of these functions. He may also direct the draft Constitution (later and accordingly advise the
The Constitution makes it Governor to return the Bill, renumbered as the present Governor to return it.
mandatory that the Governor if it is not a Money Bill, to Article 200) was enacted.
should reserve for the the Legislature along with a Commentators generally While analysing the provision,
President’s consideration message. The House or Houses agree that the Governor, who the Sarkaria Commission on
if, in his opinion (a phrase will have to reconsider the Bill normally functions on the aid Union-State Relations points
that means he exercises his within a period of six months and advice of the Council of out that the Constitutional
own discretion in this), a Bill from receiving it. It may pass Ministers, is bound to go by Adviser’s note said there
that “so derogates from the the Bill again with or without the advice in the matter of could be occasions for even
powers of the High Court any change. The Bill shall again granting assent. It may seem withholding assent on the
as to endanger the position be presented to the President unusual to say the Governor advice of the Ministers.
which that Court is by this for his consideration. The should act on ministerial
For instance, if after a Bill is
Constitution designed to fill”. article ends with that. This advice even when withholding
passed the Ministers resign
In other words, any Bill that means that the Bill will become assent and returning a Bill for
before the Bill gets the
seems to clip the wings of the law if the assent is given, but reconsideration. However, a
Governor’s assent, the new
Ministry may not want to go

High Court or undermine its nothing can be done if the reading of the Constituent
ahead with the Bill and might
functioning will not become Bill is denied assent by the Assembly debates shows that
advise against assent being
law without the President’s President or if he makes no this was indeed what the
given. These examples suggest
assent. decision. framers of the Constitution
that no discretion was ever
intended. It was explained
What happens when the Does the Governor have any envisaged for the Governor in
on behalf of the drafting
President considers the Bill? discretion in this regard? dealing with Bills.
committee that there may be a
situation when the Council of Source: https://www.
Once again, there is no Section 75 of the Government
Ministers feels that a Bill has thehindu.com/news/national/
timeframe. Article 201 of India Act, 1935,
been hastily adopted or that it tamil-nadu/the-governors-
says when a Bill is reserved contained the words ‘in his
requires changes. role-in-approving-a-bill/
by a Governor for his discretion’ while referring
consideration, “the President to the Governor’s grant of article38400499.ece
In such a situation, the
shall declare either that he assent to Bills. The phrase Constitution must provide for
assents to the Bill, or that he was consciously omitted the possibility that the Council

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FEB, 2022 ISS UE - 24 ` 100/-

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E lon Musk’s [1] has lost

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98. The Budget for FY 2022-23

99. Which of the following is

R ussian President Vladimir

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W ith the installation o

Indian States has the

124.World AIDS day is

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PASSAGE(Q.131-Q.135): As per the guidelines, 200 people signed between Shivaji

L ast week, West Bengal

fall within the contours of Chief Justice Munishwar

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DENIAL OF PHYSICAL RELATIONSHIP

The respondent-wife also

EXPLAINED: HOW BIG IS INSURGENCY

The rise of separatist

EXPLAINED | HOW DID THE ABG

EXPLAINED | HARYANA’S PRIVATE SECTOR

EXPLAINED | THE GOVERNOR’S ROLE IN

Ministry may not want to go

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