You are on page 1of 22

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.

com
https:// /#

Page | 1 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 2 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Testzone presents
Full-Length Current Affairs Mock Test Series

April 2023
CA MockDrill
PDF - 1
(PDF in English)

Attempt Mock Test based on this PDF!

DOWNLOAD:

March 2023 Monthly Combo PDF

If you find any error in this PDF, kindly report


www.smartkeeda.com it to us at help@smartkeeda.com via email.
| testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 3 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
INDEX
National & States Affairs ........................................................................................................5
International Affairs …….........................................................................................................7
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs .................................................................9
Defence Affairs ...….…….........................................................................................................13
Sports & Games ..….…….........................................................................................................13
Science & Technology .….......................................................................................................15
Appointments & Resignations ……….....................................................................................16
Schemes & Initiatives ………………………..…….……………………...............................................17
Obituaries ……………………………….………...............................................................................18
Ranks, Reports & Surveys ....................................................................................................18
Acquisitions & Mergers ........................................................................................................20
MoUs, Collaborations & Partnership ……………....................................................................20

_________

Join us on Telegram to get Free PDFs of Quant, Reasoning & English.

Click here: @SmartkeedaOfficial

Warning: Smartkeeda possesses all copyrights on its content. This doesn’t allow anyone to use its content for
commercial purposes. If anywww.smartkeeda.com
infringement is found,
| legal action will be taken against the individual or entity. If
testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

you
Pagewant
| 4 to use the
SBI content for|RRB
| RBI | IBPS commercial purposes,
| SSC | NIACL kindly
| EPFO | UGC NETwrite
| LIC |to us at |admin@smartkeeda.com.
Railways CLAT | RJS Join us
National & States Affairs
1. On April 1, Va Tech Wabag, a Chennai-based multinational corporation in the field of water treatment and desalination,
received a design, build, operate (DBO) order, for the 400 million litres per day (MLD) Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO)
desalination project from Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) in Tamil Nadu. The project,
estimated at ₹4,4000 Crore, is scheduled to be executed as a joint venture with Metito Overseas Ltd. It will be the largest
desalination plant in the southeast Asian region. This project, which is being funded by Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA), will enhance the water security for Chennai through a stable source of drinking water. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Va Tech Wabag (Chennai) – received an order for ‘Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) Desalination Project’ in TN
 Project’s cost – ₹4,4000 Crore | Funded by – JICA | Capacity – 400 million litres per day (MLD)
 Tamil Nadu: Capital – Chennai | CM – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin | Governor – Ravindra Narayan Ravi

2. On April 1, in the wake of increasing solar storms, a team of international


researchers Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in India
have partnered with the NASA to develop a new computer model that combines
artificial intelligence (AI) and satellite data to sound alarms for dangerous space
weather. The new model uses AI to analyse spacecraft measurements of the solar
wind (an unrelenting stream of material from the Sun) and predict where an
impending solar storm will strike, anywhere on Earth, with 30 minutes of advance
warning. The team of researchers at the Frontier Development Lab applied an AI method ‘deep learning’ and developed a
computer model called “DAGGER” (formally, Deep Learning Geomagnetic Perturbation). DAGGER can quickly and accurately
predict geomagnetic disturbances worldwide 30 minutes before they occur. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 IUCAA India team + NASA = partnered to develop a new computer model “DAGGER” that combines AI & satellite data
 Aim – to sound alarms for dangerous space weather
 IUCAA – Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics
 DAGGER – predicts quickly & accurately geomagnetic disturbances worldwide 30 minutes before they occur

3. On April 2, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the month-long “School Chalo Abhiyan” for academic
session 2023-24 to ensure students enrolment in primary and secondary schools. During the programme, the CM provided
free textbooks to children of classes 1 to 8 and distributed report cards to students who have passed the Nipun Assessment
Test (NAT). He also released the school readiness and teacher guide and launched Rani Laxmi Bai self-defence training
programme as part of ‘Mission Shakti’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 During the programme, UP CM Yogi Adityanath UP:
- launched a month-long “School Chalo Abhiyan” for academic session 2023-24 to ensure students enrolment
- provided free textbooks to children of classes 1 to 8
- distributed report cards to students who have passed the Nipun Assessment Test (NAT)
- launched Rani Laxmi Bai self-defence training programme as part of ‘Mission Shakti’
 UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 5 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
4. On April 1, the famous Manapparai murukku (dish), the Cumbum panneer thratchai (grapes), Marthandam honey and the
Ooty varkey (biscuit) are among 11 products from Tamil Nadu which got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the
Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The other products from Tamil Nadu are - Manamadurai pottery,
Salem sago (javvarisi), Authoor vetrilai, Negamam cotton sari, Myladi stone carvings, Thaikkal Rattan craft and the
Sholavandan betel vine. With this, Tamil Nadu will surpass Karnataka to become the state with the highest number of GI
tagged products at 56. The GI Tag is valid for 10 years in India, and it can be renewed again. Besides Tamil Nadu, the
government has also given GI tag to 22 products of 6 states/UTs including - Bihar (1), Uttar Pradesh (10), Madhya Pradesh
(1), Ladakh (1), Jammu & Kashmir (8), and Chhattisgarh (1). With this, the total number of GI Tags in India has risen to 465.
Marcha Rice (Mircha Rice) of Bihar, Rewa Sunderja Mango of Madhya Pradesh, Ladakh Shingskos (Wood Carving) of Ladakh,
Nagri Dubraj (rice) of Chhattisgarh - received GI tags recently. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Government has given GI tag to 33 products: Bihar (1), MP (1), Ladakh (1), Chhattisgarh (1), TN (11), UP (10), J&K (8)
 Some famous GI tagged products:
- Marcha Rice (Bihar)
- Rewa Sunderja Mango (Madhya Pradesh)
- Ladakh Shingskos (Ladakh)
- Nagri Dubraj (Chhattisgarh)
- Manapparai murukku (Tamil Nadu)
- Cumbum panneer thratchai (Tamil Nadu)
- Marthandam honey (Tamil Nadu)
- Ooty varkey (Tamil Nadu)
 GI Tag is valid for 10 years in India

5. On April 3, Kerala’s Eravikulam National Park (ENP), the natural habitat of Nilgiri
tahr in Munnar, has a new attraction - a Fernarium set up inside the park. According
to officials, this is the first time such a fern collection has been established in the hill
station. 52 varieties of ferns have already been planted in the new Fernarium.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
 In a first, a ‘Fernarium’ is set up inside the Eravikulam National Park, Kerala
 Kerala: Capital – Thiruvananthapuram | CM – Pinarayi Vijayan | Governor – Arif Mohammad Khan

6. On April 3, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The CBI was established by a resolution of the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 1, 1963. The
CBI operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (MoPPGP). On the occasion,
the Prime Minister conferred the President’s Police Medal to 18 officers of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for their
distinguished Service. He also gave away Gold Medal to 3 officers for Best Investigating Officers of CBI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 PM Modi inaugurated the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi
 CBI was established on April 1, 1963 by a resolution of – Ministry of Home Affairs
 CBI operates under the jurisdiction of – Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
 PM conferred the President’s Police Medal to 18 officers of the CBI for their distinguished Service
 PM also conferred Gold Medal to 3 officers for Best Investigating Officers of CBI

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 6 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
7. To motivate farmers to adopt chemical free farming and enhance the reach of natural farming, the Government
formulated the “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)” as a separate and independent scheme from 2023-24 by up
scaling the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddati (BPKP). Natural Farming is a way of chemical free farming based on desi cow and
locally available resources, with no chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Under this mission, farmers will receive a financial
assistance of Rs 15,000 per hectare per year for 3 years. The budget for fertilizer subsidy for 2023-24 has been kept at Rs
1,75,099 Crore. This information was given by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh
Tomar, in a written reply in Lok Sabha. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Government formulated “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)” as an independent scheme from 2023-24
 Under this mission, farmers will receive a financial assistance of Rs 15,000 per hectare per year for 3 years
 Budget for fertilizer subsidy for 2023-24 is kept at Rs 1,75,099 Crore

International Affairs
8. On April 1, France invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Paris as a guest at
the Annual Bastille Day Parade in July, 2023. This would be the first time in over a
decade that an Indian Prime Minister will attend the Annual Military Parade of France,
since Manmohan Singh was invited as the Bastille Day parade guest in 2009. The PM
and French President Emmanuel Macron are expected to discuss a number of major
agreements including those on the Indo-Pacificregion, nuclear power and defence, as
the two countries mark the 25th year of their strategic partnership. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 PM Modi – invited by France as a guest at the Annual Bastille Day Parade in July, 2023 (first time in over a decade)
 Before this, Manmohan Singh was invited as the Bastille Day parade guest in 2009
 India – France have completed the 25th year of their strategic partnership
 France – Paris – Euro | President – Emmanuel Macron | PM – Elisabeth Borne

9. On April 4, Finland officially became the 31st member of the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO). The Nordic nation’s accession was sealed during a formal
ceremony at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. Finland’s acceptance into
the US-led security alliance presents a blow to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The
NATO was founded by 12 countries in 1949. Finland and Sweden applied to join in
May 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Sweden’s attempt to
join the bloc has been stalled by alliance members Turkey & Hungary. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Finland – officially became the 31st member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
 HQs of NATO – Brussels, Belgium | Secretary General – Jens Stoltenberg | Member Countries – 31

10. On April 1, Georgia, US, passed a resolution condemning “Hinduphobia” and “Anti-Hindu bigotry”, making it the first
American State to take such a legislative measure. The resolution said Hinduism is one of the world’s largest and oldest
religions with over 1.2 billion adherents in over 100 countries. A move in this regard was spearheaded by the Atlanta chapter
of the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), which organised the first-ever Hindu Advocacy Day held on March 22
at the Georgia State Capitol. {Read more}

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 7 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Smart Points:
 Georgia – became the first American State to pass a resolution condemning “Hinduphobia” & “Anti-Hindu bigotry”
 A move in this regard was spearheaded by Atlanta chapter of the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA)
 US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris

11. On April 1, the UK joined an 11-nation Indo-Pacific free-trade bloc, ‘Comprehensive and
Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)’, becoming its 12th member, in a
bid to strengthen economic ties with new partners following divorce from the European
Union. Britain is the first new member since the CPTPP was created in 2018, and the first
European country in the bloc. Australia, Japan, Canada, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New
Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam are the other eleven members of the bloc. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 UK – became the 12th member of the ‘Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)’
 Britain is the first new member since the CPTPP was created in 2018 & the first European country in the bloc
 Other members: Australia, Japan, Canada, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam
 UK – London – Pound Sterling | PM – Rishi Sunak (57th) | New King – King Charles lll

12. On April 2, Russia assumed charge of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) causing fury in Ukraine. The last time
Russia held the rotating presidency of the body was in February 2022. Russia took over the presidency for April 2023, from
Mozambique who held the presidency for March 2023. The UNSC is responsible for maintaining peace and combating acts of
international aggression. The UNSC has 10 Non-permanent members & 5 permanent members (China, France, Russia, UK,
US). In May, Switzerland is set to receive the UNSC Presidency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Russia – took over the Presidency of the UNSC for April 2023
 HQs of UNSC – New York, US | Presidency in April – Russia (March - Mozambique | May - Switzerland)
 The UNSC has 10 Non-permanent members & 5 permanent members (China, France, Russia, UK, US)

13. On April 2, the world’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry, “MF Hydra”, has
been made operational in Norway. Since the beginning of the year, Norled has been
testing the system, and recently, the Norwegian Maritime Authority gave its final
clearances. The 82.4-meter-long MF Hydra, which was delivered in 2021, can carry
up to 300 passengers and 80 vehicles. The ferry will travel in Norway on a triangular
route between Hjelmeland, Skipavik, and Nesvik. The Batteries for the MF Hydra
were provided by Corvus Energy. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 World’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry, “MF Hydra” – made operational in Norway
 The ferry will travel in Norway on a triangular route between Hjelmeland, Skipavik & Nesvik
 Norway – Oslo – Krone | PM – Jonas Gahr Store

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 8 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
14. Over 2,000 Ukraine military recruits undergone five weeks of basic training in the UK, under the “Operation Interflex”.
The operation is led by the UK and run by 9 other partner countries - Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Norway, Denmark,
Finland, Sweden, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. Operation Interflex is part of the UK’s commitment of £2.3 billion for the
provision of military aid and support to Ukraine. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Over 2,000 Ukraine military recruits – undergone 5 weeks of basic training in the UK, under “Operation Interflex”
 The operation is led by the UK & run by 9 other partner countries
 Ukraine – Kyiv – Ukrainian Hryvnia | President – Volodymyr Zelensky
 UK – London – Pound Sterling | PM – Rishi Sunak (57th) | New King – King Charles lll

Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs


15. On April 1, India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), in collaboration with Airtel, announced to launch WhatsApp Banking
Services for IPPB customers in New Delhi, enabling them to access banking services on their mobile phone. The Airtel - IPPB
WhatsApp Banking solution is also working on to build multi-language support, enabling added convenience to customers,
especially to those in the rural parts of the country to access banking services in their preferred language. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 IPPB + Airtel = collaboration to launch WhatsApp Banking Services for IPPB customers
 HQs of IPPB – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Venkatram Jayanthy | Established on – 1st Sep, 2018
 HQs of Bharti Airtel – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Gopal Vittal | Chairman – Sunil Bharti Mittal

16. On April 2, Union Bank of India (UBI) became the first Indian bank to open a Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA) in
Malaysia. UBI opened SRVA through its corresponding bank, i.e., India International Bank of Malaysia. Trade between India
and Malaysia can now be settled in the Indian rupee, in addition to the current modes of settlement in other currencies.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
 Union Bank of India – became 1st Indian bank to open a SRVA in Malaysia
 SRVA – Special Rupee Vostro Account
 HQs of UBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – A. Manimekhalai | Tagline – “Good People to Bank With”
 Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur – Ringgit | PM – Anwar Ibrahim | King – Al-Sultan Abdullah

17. On April 1, in the 121st meeting of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), two new entities
namely - Acko Life Insurance Ltd and Credit Access Life Insurance Ltd - were granted certificate of registration to commence
life insurance business. With these two additions, the total number of life insurers operating in India have gone up to 25,
which had remained stagnant since 2011. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Acko Life Ins. & Credit Access Life Ins. – are granted ‘certificate of registration’ to commence life insurance business
 With this, total number of life insurers operating in India have gone up to 25
 HQs of IRDAI – Hyderabad, Telangana | Chairman – Debasish Panda

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 9 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
18. On April 4, Canara Bank introduced “Premium Payroll Package” for the Salary account holders with competitive features.
The product has been designed to meet all Banking requirements of Salaried Customers. The features such as free Term Life
Insurance, Insta over Draft, free Personal & Air Accident Insurance coverage, Premium Cards are some of the unique
features of the product. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Canara Bank – introduced “Premium Payroll Package” for the Salary account holders with competitive features
 HQs of Canara Bank – Bengaluru, Karnataka | MD & CEO – K. Satyanarayana Raju | Non-Ex Chairman – Vijay Srirangam

19. DBS Bank India launched an innovative investment solution, “digiPortfolio”, on its digibank platform. digiPortfolio uses
both technology and human expertise to create a set of investment options curated by Morningstar that match the risk
preferences of different investors. The platform is an easy, one-stop solution for users to invest money with ready-made
baskets of mutual funds. DBS Bank India is one of the first banks in India to offer this type of digital solution. digiPortfolio
provides instant access to investors with two plans starting at a minimum investment of ₹10,000 and ₹50,000. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 DBS Bank India – launched an innovative investment solution, “digiPortfolio”, on its digibank platform
 digiPortfolio provides instant access to investors with 2 plans starting at a minimum investment of ₹10,000 & ₹50,000
 HQs of DBS Bank India – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Surojit Shome

20. On April 2, Ministry of Finance revised interest rates of various Small Savings Schemes for the first quarter (Q1) of FY
2023-24 (April 1, 2023 to June 30, 2023). The interest rate of the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme was increased from 8.0% to
8.2%, making it the highest interest rate offered by any small savings program at present. National Savings Certificates (NCS)
moved up sharply from 7% to 7.7%. Interest rate for Public Provident Fund (PPF) scheme has been kept unchanged at 7.1%
for Q1 FY24. The rate for Kisan Vikas Patras (KVP) was increased from 7.2% to 7.5%. The scheme will now mature in 115
months, instead of 120 months previously. The interest rate for the Sukanya Samriddhi Account (SSA) scheme rose to 8%
from 7.6% earlier. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Ministry of Finance – revised interest rates of various Small Savings Schemes for Q1 of FY 2023-24
 Public Provident Fund (PPF) – 7.1% | National Savings Certificate (NSC) – 7.7%
 Senior Citizens Savings Scheme – 8.2% | Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana – 8%
 Kishan Vikas Patra – 7.5% (maturity - 115 months)
 The Small Savings Schemes include – 12 Schemes
 Shyamala Gopinath Committee – provided the formula to calculate the interest rates for the SSS

21. In Union Budget 2023-24, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the revamping of “Credit Guarantee Scheme
for Micro & Small Enterprises” with effect from 1 April, 2023, with an infusion of Rs 9,000 Crore to the corpus to enable
additional collateral-free guaranteed credit of Rs 2 lakh Crore and the reduction in the cost of the credit by about 1%. The
corpus of Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) has been infused with a sum of Rs 8,000
Crore on 30 March, 2023. The limit on ceiling for guarantees has been enhanced from Rs 2 Crore to Rs 5 Crore. Initiation of
legal proceedings will no longer be required for settlement of claims in respect of guarantees for loan outstanding up to Rs
10 lakh. {Read more}

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 10 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Smart Points:
 Nirmala Sitharaman – announced revamping of “Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro & Small Enterprises” from 1 April
 Infusion of Rs 9,000 Cr to the corpus – to enable additional collateral-free guaranteed credit of Rs 2 lakh Cr
 The limit on ceiling for guarantees has been enhanced to Rs 5 Cr (from Rs 2 Cr)
 Initiation of legal proceedings will no longer be required for settlement of claims in respect of guarantees for loan
outstanding up to Rs 10 lakh

22. On April 1, the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), General Insurance Corporation of India Limited (GIC Re.) and New India
Assurance (NIA) continue to be identified as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs) by the Insurance Regulator
and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). D-SIIs are perceived as insurers that are ‘too big or too important to fail’ (TBTF).
If they fail, they distress or failure would cause a significant dislocation in the domestic financial system. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 LIC + GIC Re + NIA = continue to be identified as Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs) by IRDAI
 HQs of GIC Re – Mumbai | CMD – Devesh Srivastava
 HQs of NIA – Mumbai | CMD – Neerja Kapur
 HQs of LIC – Mumbai | Chairman – Siddhartha Mohanty | Founded in – 1956 | Tagline – ‘Yogakshemam Vahamyaham’
 4 MDs of LIC – Ipe Mini, Siddhartha Mohanty, Tablesh Pandey & M. Jagannath

23. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has entered into a record 95 Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) in FY 2022-23
with Indian taxpayers. This includes 63 Unilateral APAs (UAPAs) and 32 Bilateral APAs (BAPAs). With this, the total number of
APAs, since inception of the APA programme, has gone up to 516, comprising 420 UAPAs and 96 BAPAs. The year has been a
record-breaking year in several ways. A record of the largest number of single day signings in the history of the programme
was also created with a total of 21 APAs signed on 24th March, 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 CBDT – entered into a record 95 Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) in FY 2022-23 with Indian taxpayers
 This includes 63 Unilateral APAs (UAPAs) & 32 Bilateral APAs (BAPAs)
 With this, the total number of APAs has gone up to 516 (420 UAPAs + 96 BAPAs)
 Record of largest number of single day signings in the history of the programme was also created with total 21 APAs
 HQs of CBDT – New Delhi | Chairman – Nitin Gupta | Formed in – 1944

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 11 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 12 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Defence Affairs
24. Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed multiple deals worth Rs 37,600 Crore for armed forces giving a boost to PM Narendra
Modi’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ mission. The contract for acquisition of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels under Buy
(Indian-IDDM) category was signed with Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE),
Kolkata at a total cost of Rs 9,781 crore. Of the 11 ships, 7 will be indigenously designed, developed & manufactured by GSL
and 4 by GRSE. The contract for acquisition of 6 Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV) was signed with Cochin Shipyard
Limited (CSL) at a cost of Rs 9,805 crore. MoD signed contracts for procurement of improved Akash Weapon System and 12
Weapon Locating Radars (WLR) Swathi (Plains) for the Indian Army at an overall cost of over Rs 9,100 crore where the
contract for procurement of improved Akash Weapon System (AWS) was signed with Bharat Dynamics Limited. Besides,
MoD signed 10 contracts totalling Rs 5,498 crore with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) for Indian armed forces. For Indian Air
Force, a contract was signed with BEL to supply 90 units of Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite Equipment for Medium Lift
Helicopter. For Indian Navy, MoD signed a contract with BEL for the procurement of 13 Lynx-U2 Fire Control Systems.
Ministry of Defence inked a contract with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for procurement of Next Generation
Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long range) {NGMMCB (LR)} and BrahMos Missiles at an approximate cost of over Rs
1,700 Crore under Buy (Indian) Category. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Ministry of Defence signed multiple deals worth Rs 37,600 Crore for armed forces
- Rs 9,781 Cr contract for 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels – with Goa Shipyard Ltd + GRSE
- Rs 9,805 Cr contract for 6 Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV) – with Cochin Shipyard Ltd
- Rs 9,100 Cr contract for improved Akash Weapon System & 12 WLR Swathi (Plains) – with BEL
- A contract for 90 units of Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite Equipment for Medium Lift Helicopter – with BEL
- A contract for 13 Lynx-U2 Fire Control Systems – with BEL
- Rs 1,700 Cr contract for Next Gen. Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries & BrahMos Missiles – with BrahMos Aerospace
 Ministry of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
 MoS in Ministry of Defence: Ajay Bhatt

Sports & Games


25. India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, formerly in Grade A, has been promoted to A plus (A+)
category, while batter KL Rahul has been demoted to Grade B in the latest BCCI 2022-23
annual contracts list. India skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah have
been retained in the A plus category with Jadeja. The BCCI has four categories. A, B and C
categories are valued at Rs 5 crore, Rs 3 crore and Rs 1 crore respectively. While A+ has
annual remuneration of Rs 7 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Ravindra Jadeja – promoted to A plus (A+) category in the latest BCCI 2022-23 annual contracts list (from Grade A)
 Other players in A+ category: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah | A+ has annual remuneration of Rs 7 Cr

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 13 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
26. On April 1, India’s 95-year-old veteran Bhagwani Devi Dagar of Haryana bagged 3 gold medals
at the 9th ‘World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship’ at Torun, Poland. She ran in the 90-94
age category of 60-meter running to win a Gold. Further she bagged gold medals in shot put and
discus throw in the 95-99 years old category. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 9th ‘World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship’ – held at Torun, Poland
 Bhagwani Devi Dagar (Haryana) – bagged 3 gold medals | Her age – 95
 She won Golds in – 60-meter running, Shot put & Discus throw
 Poland – Warsaw – Polish Zloty | President – Andrzej Sebastin Duda
 Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Manohar Lal Khattar | Governor – Bandaru Dattatray

27. On April 2, Yuzvendra Chahal has become the first Indian bowler to take 300 wickets in T20 cricket.
The Rajasthan Royals bowler achieved the feat during the IPL 2023 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad
in Hyderabad. Ravichandran Ashwin is second on the list with 287 wickets in T20 cricket followed by
Piyush Chawla (276 wickets). {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Yuzvendra Chahal – became the first Indian bowler to take 300 wickets in T20 cricket
 2nd – Ravichandran Ashwin (287 wickets) | 3rd – Piyush Chawla (276 wickets)

28. Aravindh Chithambaram clinched the 20th Delhi International Open Chess title, beating Georgia’s
Levan Pantsulaia. Aravindh, who aggregated a massive 9.5 points from 10 rounds, collected Rs 6 lahks
and the winner’s trophy from an event. A surprise Indian in the top 10 was 11-year-old Ethan Vaz.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
 Aravindh Chithambaram – clinched the 20th Delhi International Open Chess title (beating Georgia’s Levan Pantsulaia)

29. The Walt Disney Company India-owned channel Star Sports signed Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh as
its Brand Ambassador. The association makes the pop culture icon the first actor to be associated with the
channel and will be growing synergy between sports and entertainment. Singh will be seen as ‘sutradhaar’
for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League or ‘Incredible League’ as named by the company.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
 Ranveer Singh – appointed as Brand Ambassador of Star Sports channel (owned by Walt Disney Company India)

30. In April 2023, Indian badminton player PV Sindhu lost to Indonesia’s Gregoria Mariska
Tunjung in the final of the Women’s Singles title at the “Madrid Spain Masters 2023”.
Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto won the Men’s Singles title, defeating Japan’s Kanta Tsuneyama.
He Ji Ting & Zhou Hao Dong of China won the Men’s Doubles title. While Liu Sheng Shu &
Tan Ning of China won the Women’s Doubles title. Denmark’s Mathias Christiansen &
Alexandra Boje won the Mixed Doubles title. The 2023 Spain Masters, held between March
28 to April 2, was the 8th event of the 2023 BWF World Tour. {Read more}

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 14 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Smart Points:
 “Madrid Spain Masters 2023”:
- Women’s Singles title: won by Gregoria Mariska (Indonesia) – defeating PV Sindhu (India)
- Men’s Singles title: won by Kenta Nishimoto (Japan) – defeating Kanta Tsuneyama (Japan)
- Men’s Doubles title: won by He Ji Ting & Zhou Hao Dong (China)
- Women’s Doubles title: won by Liu Sheng Shu & Tan Ning (China)
- Mixed Doubles title: won by Mathias Christiansen & Alexandra Boje (Denmark)

Science & Technology


31. Scientists from India and the UK jointly developed “SMART”, a Real-Time Early Warning System to help reduce the
devastating impact of flooding on people and property, particularly in mountainous regions where extreme water events are
a major problem. An international team of researchers from the University of Birmingham, Imperial College London, IIT
Roorkee, and People’s Science Institute, Dehradun, worked on integrating science, policy and local community-led
approaches to create a so-called SMART approach that better fits the local context. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 India + UK = developed “SMART”, a Real-Time Early Warning System to help reduce the devastating impact of flooding
 UK – London – Pound Sterling | PM – Rishi Sunak (57th) | New King – King Charles lll

32. Tokyo-based ALE is set to launch the satellites that will trigger an artificial meteor shower “Sky Canvas” in 2025. The
project is designed to collect atmospheric data in the mesosphere, which is the third layer of the atmosphere. The company
aims to give people all over the world the opportunity to view the world’s first live human-made meteor shower. ALE hopes
to reproduce the effect of natural meteor showers by using metal ‘shooting star’ particles that are around 1 centimetre in
size. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 ALE (Japan) – to launch the satellites that will trigger an artificial meteor shower “Sky Canvas” in 2025
 It will be the world’s first live human-made meteor shower
 The project is designed to collect atmospheric data in the ‘Mesosphere’

33. Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) has successfully conducted a field firing test of its
latest 3rd generation man-portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM), “Amogha-III”.
This indigenous missile has been developed under Integrated Guided Missile
Development Programme (IGMDP). Amogha-III ATGM boasts a fire-and-forget
capability, requiring no external intervention following launch. Developed by BDL’s
Research and Development Division, the missile also features a dual-mode IIR
Seeker with a range of 200 to 2500 meters. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 BDL – conducted field firing test of its latest 3rd Gen man-portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM), “Amogha-III”
 The missile features a dual-mode IIR Seeker with a range of 200-2500 meters
 HQs of BDL – Hyderabad, Telangana | CMD – P. Radhakrishna | Founded in – 1970

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 15 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
34. On April 2, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully carried
out the landing experiment of the Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology
Demonstration (RLV-TD) programme at the Aeronautical Test Range in Challakere,
Chitradurga, Karnataka. An Indian Air Forces (IAF) Chinook helicopter was used to
drop the RLV-TD from a 4.5 km altitude. RLV-TD consists of a fuselage (body), a
nose cap, double delta wings, and twin vertical tails. In a first in the world, a
winged body has been carried to an altitude of 4.5 km by helicopter and released
for carrying an autonomous landing on a runway. The mission was conducted in
collaboration with the DRDO and Indian Air Force. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 ISRO – successfully carried out the landing experiment of ‘Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstration (RLV-TD)
programme’ in Challakere, Chitradurga, Karnataka (in collaboration with DRDO & IAF)
 IAF’s Chinook helicopter was used to drop the RLV-TD from a 4.5 km altitude
 HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

35. The ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will launch the European Space
Agency’s (ESA) “Proba-3” mission in 2024. Proba-3’s two satellites - Coronagraph
spacecraft and Occulter spacecraft - will together form a 144-m long solar coronagraph
to study the Sun’s faint corona closer to the solar rim than has ever before been
achieved. The 340-kilogram spacecraft will be deployed by PSLV, a 4-stage rocket, in a
high Earth orbit with an orbital period of 19.7 hours. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 ISRO’s PSLV – to launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) “Proba-3” mission in 2024 to study the Sun’s faint corona
 Proba-3’s Coronagraph spacecraft & Occulter spacecraft – will jointly form a 144-m long solar coronagraph
 HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

Appointments & Resignations


36. On April 1, Amit Kshatriya, a decorated Indian-American software and robotics
engineer, was appointed as the first head of NASA’s newly-established ‘Moon to Mars’
Programme. The new office aims to carry out the agency’s human exploration activities
on the Moon and Mars for the benefit of humanity. The Moon to Mars Programme
Office will help prepare NASA to carry out our bold missions to the Moon and land the
first humans on Mars. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Amit Kshatriya (Indian-American) – appointed as the first head of NASA’s newly-established ‘Moon to Mars’ Programme
 HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

37. On April 2, Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh assumed charge as the Vice-Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS) in
a series of top-level changes in the Navy. In other appointments, Vice-Adm. Suraj Berry assumed charge
as the Chief of Personnel (COP) while Vice-Admiral Atul Anand took over as the Director-General Naval
Operations (DGNO). V. Adm. Singh took over after the incumbent V. Adm. S. N. Ghormade stepped down
as VCNS on March 31 upon superannuation. {Read more}

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 16 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Smart Points:
 Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh – assumed charge as the Vice-Chief of Naval Staff (succeeding - V. Adm. SN Ghormade)
 Vice-Admiral Suraj Berry – assumed charge as the Chief of Personnel (COP)
 Vice-Admiral Atul Anand – took over as the Director-General Naval Operations (DGNO)
 HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral R. Hari Kumar | Vice Chief – Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh

38. In April 2023, Former US Ambassador to India Richard Verma has been sworn in as the Deputy
Secretary of State for Management and Resources, making him the highest-ranking Indian-American
ever in the State Department. The Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources is often
referred to as the Chief Operating Officer of the State Department. He is a veteran of the United
States Air Force, where he served as a Judge Advocate. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Richard Verma – sworn in as the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, US
 With this, he became the highest-ranking Indian-American ever in the State Department
 US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris

39. On April 1, Rudrendra Tandon, a 1994 batch IFS officer, presently Additional Secretary in the Ministry
of External Affairs, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Greece. In September 2020
Rudrendra Tandon assumed charge as India’s Ambassador to Afghanistan. Prior to his arrival in
Afghanistan, Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon was India’s Ambassador to ASEAN Secretariat in 2018.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
 Rudrendra Tandon – appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Greece
 Greece – Athens – Euro | PM – Kyriakos Mitsotakis

Schemes & Initiatives


40. The “Mahila Samman Saving Certificate”, a new small savings scheme launched specifically for female investors, was
announced in ‘Union Budget 2023’ to promote investment among women. Accounts opened under this scheme will be
single-holder accounts that can be opened at the Post Office or any registered bank. Women investors must submit Form - I
by March 31, 2025. The minimum investment amount is Rs 1,000 and the maximum investment authorised under the plan is
Rs 2 lakh. The interest rate on the deposits made under this scheme is 7.5% annually. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 “Mahila Samman Saving Certificate”, a new small savings scheme – launched specifically for female investors
 Minimum investment amount – Rs 1,000 | Maximum investment – Rs 2 lakh | Annual interest rate – 7.5%
 Women investors must submit ‘Form - I’ by March 31, 2025

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 17 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Obituaries
41. A renowned writer Sarah Thomas passed away at the age of 89. She has 17 novels and more than
hundred short stories to her credit. She won the ‘Kerala Sahitya Akademi’ award twice - in 1979 for her
novel ‘Narmadipudava’ and in 2010 for overall contribution to Malayalam literature. Her novel
Murippadukal was adapted to the movie Manimuzhakkam, directed by P. A. Backer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Sarah Thomas – a renowned writer – passed away
 She won ‘Kerala Sahitya Akademi’ award twice - for ‘Narmadipudava’ novel & contribution to Malayalam literature

42. On April 2, Ryuichi Sakamoto, a world-renowned Japanese Musician and Actor, passed away at
the age of 71. He won the Oscar & Grammy Awards for the 1987 movie “The Last Emperor”. He also
won the Golden Globe Award under ‘Best Score - Motion Pictures’ category twice. Sakamoto starred
in the BAFTA-winning 1983 film “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence”. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Ryuichi Sakamoto – Japanese Musician and Actor – passed away
 Awards: Oscar & Grammy Awards for “The Last Emperor” & Golden Globe Award under ‘Best Score - Motion Pictures’
 Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

43. On April 2, Salim Durani, the debonair India cricketer of the 1960s, passed away at the
age of 88 in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The Kabul-born Durani played 29 Tests and was
instrumental in India defeating England 2-0 in the historic five-match Test series in 1961-
62. The star cricketer also dabbled in Bollywood, starring opposite renowned actor
Praveen Babi in the movie ‘Charitra’ in 1973. He was honoured with the Arjuna Award in
1961, the first Indian cricketer to receive this Award. In 2011, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) honoured him
with ‘Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Salim Durani (Kabul-born) – India cricketer of 1960s – passed away
 Awards: Arjuna Award (1961), Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2011) by BCCI

Ranks, Reports & Surveys


44. Haryana Police secured the first position in the latest “Crime and Criminal Tracking and Network System (CCTNS)
Ranking” released at all-India level. The state police secured the top position with 99.99 marks. The CCTNS software had
been implemented in all police stations of the state. Apart from this, connectivity has also been made available in the police
stations of all districts. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 Haryana Police – secured 1st position in the latest “Crime & Criminal Tracking and Network System (CCTNS) Ranking”
 The state police secured the top position with 99.99 marks
 Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Manohar Lal Khattar | Governor – Bandaru Dattatray

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 18 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
45. According to the 3rd edition of “India Justice Report (IJR) 2022”, Karnataka has achieved the top rank among the 18 large
and mid-sized states (the states with population over 1 crore). Tamil Nadu has ranked in second position and Telangana in
Third. Uttar Pradesh is at rank 18 which is the lowest. This report is based on overall data of 4 pillars of justice delivery
namely Police, Judiciary, Prisons, and Legal Aid. The list of 7 Small States with a population of less than 1 crore each, was
topped by Sikkim, which was followed by Arunachal Pradesh & Tripura. This third IJR also separately assesses the capacity of
the 25 State Human Rights Commissions in the country. Only Kerala could achieve case clearance rate of 100% among the 18
large and mid-sized states. The IJR, initiated in 2019, is an initiative of Tata Trusts. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 3rd edition of “India Justice Report (IJR) 2022” – by Tata Trusts
 Karnataka – achieved the top rank among the 18 large & mid-sized states (population over 1 crore)
 2nd – Tamil Nadu | 3rd – Telangana
 Sikkim – achieved the top rank among 7 small states (population of less than 1 crore)
 2nd – Arunachal Pradesh | 3rd – Tripura
 Only Kerala could achieve case clearance rate of 100% among the 18 large & mid-sized states

46. Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani once again regained his spot as Asia’s richest person in the Forbes World
Billionaire List 2023 (37th edition) released on 4 April. The development took place after Gautam Adani tumbled to No. 24 in
the global list. Adani’s net worth is now $47.2 billion and is the second richest Indian behind Ambani. With a net worth of
$83.4 billion, Ambani, was ranked at number 9 on the world billionaire list. With $211 billion net worth, Bernard Arnault, the
French luxury goods tycoon, tops the list for the first time. Elon Musk, with $180 billion net worth, is ranked No. 2, followed
by Jeff Bezos with $114 billion net worth. There are a record number of Indians at 169 in all, on Forbes’ 2023 list of the
World’s Billionaires, up from 166 last year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 “Forbes World Billionaire List 2023 (37th edition)” – released on 4 April
 Mukesh Ambani – regained his spot as Asia’s richest person & world’s 9th richest person
 1st – Bernard Arnault ($211 billion), 2nd – Elon Musk ($180 billion), 3rd – Jeff Bezos ($114 billion)

47. Around 17.5% of the world population or 1 in 6 people have experienced infertility at some point in their lifetime, the
World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed in its report “Infertility Prevalence Estimates 1990-2021” released on April 4,
2023. The estimates are based on 100 studies conducted between 1990 and 2021 across high, middle and low-income
countries. In high-income countries, around 17.8% of the population have experienced infertility at least once, while it was
16.5% in low- and middle-income countries. The WHO has described infertility as a disease of the male or female
reproductive system. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 “Infertility Prevalence Estimates 1990-2021” – released by the WHO
 Around 17.5% of the world population experienced infertility at some point in their lifetime
 In high-income countries – 17.8% | In low- and middle-income countries – 16.5%
 HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 19 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
Acquisitions & Mergers
48. On April 1, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) increased its shareholding in Bata India from 57,48,071 to 64,36,692
equity shares, taking its stake of the paid-up capital in the company from 4.472% to 5.008%. The LIC purchased 6.88 lakh
shares of Bata India for about Rs 108 Crore. Apart from LIC, HDFC Life Insurance Company and ICICI Prudential Insurance
Company held 2.21% and 1.19% stakes in Bata India as of the December quarter. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 LIC – increased its shareholding in Bata India & took its paid-up capital from 4.472% to 5.008%
 HDFC Life Insurance Company – held 2.21% | ICICI Prudential Insurance Company – held 1.19% stakes in Bata India
 HQs of LIC – Mumbai | Chairman – Siddhartha Mohanty | Founded in – 1956 | Tagline – ‘Yogakshemam Vahamyaham’
 4 MDs of LIC – Ipe Mini, Siddhartha Mohanty, Tablesh Pandey & M. Jagannath
 HQs of Bata – Lausanne, Switzerland | CEO – Sandeep Kataria
 HQs of Bata India – Gurugram, Haryana | CEO – Gunjan Shah

49. On April 2, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) completed the acquisition of Karaikal Port Pvt Ltd (KPPL)
for Rs 1,485 Crore after receiving approval from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Karaikal Port is a sizable all-
weather deep-water port located in Puducherry, India, with five functional berths, three railway sidings, over 600 hectares
of land, and an existing cargo handling capacity of 21.5 million metric tonnes. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 APSEZ – completed the acquisition of Karaikal Port Pvt Ltd (Puducherry) for Rs 1,485 Cr
 HQs of APSEZ – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | CEO – Karan Adani

MoUs, Collaborations & Partnership


50. BharatPe Group partnered with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) to enable women entrepreneurs across
India in their journeys of self-reliance and business growth. Launched under ‘BharatPe Cares’, a corporate social
responsibility (CSR) initiative by BharatPe Group, this partnership aligns with the Group’s brand purpose to empower lives
through inclusive fintech solutions. This specific initiative rests under the CSR program of PAYBACK, a BharatPe company.
The partnership aims to build an ecosystem that brings together women entrepreneurs from different parts of the country
and equips them with the required domain knowledge and the financial and technical know-how needed to fulfil their
business goals. According to the 6th Economic Census by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, women
comprise only 13.76% of the total entrepreneurs in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
 BharatPe + Women Entrepreneurship Platform = partnered to enable women entrepreneurs across India in their
journeys of self-reliance and business growth under ‘BharatPe Cares’
 According to the 6th Economic Census: Women comprise only 13.76% of the total entrepreneurs in India
 HQs of BharatPe – New Delhi | CEO – Nalin Negi (Interim)

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 20 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
 Some Important Species Found:
 “Anchitheriomys buceei”, a new species of ancient beaver – discovered at the University of Texas at Austin, US
 “Hexacentrus khasiensis”, a Bush Cricket – discovered in Meghalaya
 “Hexacentrus Ashoka” & “Hexacentrus tiddae”, Bush Crickets – discovered in Sonipat, Haryana
 “Mukupirna fortidentata”, an ancient marsupial species – discovered in Australia
 “Cyrtodactylus chengodumalaens”, a new species of Bent-toed Gecko – discovered in northern Kerala
 “Capulopsyche keralensis”, a species of bagworm moth – discovered in Idukki & Palakkad districts of Kerala
 “Caltoris bromus sadasiva”, a new species of Butterfly – discovered in Western Ghats

Important Days
Prevention of Blindness Week
April 1-7
(Theme – “The Right to Sight")
April 1 Utkal Divas (Odisha Diwas) or 88th Foundation Day of Odisha
UN’s World Autism Awareness Day (since 2008)
April 2
(Theme – “Contribution of Autistic Individuals at Home, at Work, in the Arts, and Policymaking”)
International Children’s Book Day (Sponsored by - Greece)
April 2
(Theme – “I am a book, read me”)
April 3 259th Raising Day of Army Medical Corps
UN’s International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action (since 2006)
April 4
(Theme – “Mine Action Cannot Wait”)
April 5 4th International Day of Conscience (since 2020)
National Maritime Day or Merchant Navy Flag Day (to commemorate the sailing of first Indian
April 5 Steamship “S.S. Loyalty”)
(Theme – “Amrit Kaal in Shipping”)

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Page | 21 SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS Join us
ippines – Manila – Peso | President – Ferdinand Marcos Jr

www.smartkeeda.com | testzone.smartkeeda.com
https:// /#

Testzone.smartkeeda.com
SBI | RBI | IBPS |RRB | SSC | NIACL | EPFO | UGC NET | LIC | Railways | CLAT | RJS
Page | 22 Join us

You might also like