SPOTLIGHT

Monthly Current Affairs

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RBI - NABARD - SEBI

SPOTLIGHT - AUGUST 2023
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Contents
NATIONAL NEWS................................................................................................................................................ 2
STATE NEWS ..................................................................................................................................................... 62
INTERNATIONAL NEWS .................................................................................................................................... 71
BANKING AND ECONOMY ................................................................................................................................ 82
INDICES AND REPORTS................................................................................................................................... 111
GDP FORECASTS ............................................................................................................................................. 117
DEFENCE NEWS .............................................................................................................................................. 117
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT................................................................................................... 127
AWARDS ......................................................................................................................................................... 128
IMPORTANT DAYS .......................................................................................................................................... 132
SPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................... 145
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ......................................................................................................... 152
APPOINTMENTS ............................................................................................................................................. 163
MISCELLANEOUS ............................................................................................................................................ 169
QUESTIONS .................................................................................................................................................... 176

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NATIONAL NEWS
1. Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) has collaborated with Arm, the
world’s leading semiconductor IP company during the Semicon India event in
Gandhinagar.
• They have launched the ‘Arm Flexible Access for Startups’ initiative to provide Indian
semiconductor startups access to Arm’s broad portfolio of verified Arm IP, tools and training.
• Arm will provide the startups with access to processor and system IPs, reference designs,
GPU, ISP, and AI accelerator IPs, and software development tools.
• Eligibility – Startups selected under the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme will
qualify for the Arm Flexible Access for Startups program.
• IP is not the Intellectual Property here. Instead, Arm has given ‘IP’ name to one of its
products. The access to that product will be provided by Arm.
• Furthermore, the 2nd edition of the Semicon India 2023 event was organized on the
theme of ‘Catalysing India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem’ at Mahatma Mandir in
Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
o Organizer of the Conference - India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
• During the Semicon India 2023, American multinational semiconductor Advanced Micro
Devices (AMD) announced it would invest approximately USD 400 million in India over
the next five years.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Objective of DLI - The DLI scheme of MeitY aims to offer financial incentives as well as
design infrastructure support across various stages of development and deployment of
semiconductor design(s) for Integrated Circuits (ICs), Chipsets, System on Chips (SoCs),
Systems & IP Cores and semiconductor linked design(s) over a period of five years.
• Implementation - The DLI Scheme is implemented by C-DAC.
o Under the DLI Scheme, ChipIN centre has been setup at C-DAC as one stop
centre to provide chip design & fabrication services to supported companies.
• During the Semicon India 2023 event, Aheesa Digital Innovations and Calligo
Technologies were chosen under the DLI scheme.
• Now, a total 7 start-ups under the DLI Scheme will be working on making chip and IP
cores for automotive, mobility and computing sectors.
Source: PIB PIB ET and ARM

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2. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has launched a chatbot in India called ‘Just
Ask!’ – an Artificial Intelligence (AI) digital engagement platform for adolescents and young
adults, aimed to help them learn about their sexual and reproductive health and rights.
• Developers – UNFPA, in collaboration with the National Health Mission (NHM) and the
Department of Public Health and Family Welfare, Government of Madhya Pradesh, India
• The project will be partly funded by the international pharmaceutical company Bayer, which
recently signed an agreement with UNFPA to contribute $720,000 to India to improve
awareness on sexual and reproductive health and rights among adolescents and young
people.
• UNFPA and Bayer also participated in a Linkedin dialogue on ‘Digital Innovation and its
Impact on Family Planning’ in July 2023 to emphasize the advantage of adopting digital
platforms in strengthening health systems in low-and-middle income countries.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The platform has been developed in line with UNFPA’s Guide on Safe and Ethical Use
of Technology to Address Gender-based Violence and Harmful Practices, keeping
user data privacy at the core of its design.
• The report was published in March 2023.
Source: UNFPA

3. External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar held the 15th India-Japan Foreign
Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with H.E. Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of
Japan in New Delhi.
• 2023 is being celebrated as the Year of India-Japan Tourism Exchanges with the theme
of ‘Connecting Himalayas with Mount Fuji’.
Source: MEA

4. Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardip Singh Puri informed the Rajya Sabha that a
total of 75.51 lakh houses have been completed out of which 71.39 lakh have been occupied
till now under the Prime Ministers’ Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U).
• Uttar Pradesh had the largest number of houses completed at 12,87,307.
Source: The Hindu

5. G20 EMPOWER Summit 2023 was organized in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

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• This followed on from the Inception Meeting held in Agra, Uttar Pradesh on 11th and 12th
February 2023 and the 2nd meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on 5th and 6th April
2023.
Source: PIB

6. Parliament has passed the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
• The Bill amends the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002.
• Features of the bill -
o It establishes the Co-operative Election Authority to conduct and supervise
elections to the boards of multi-state co-operative societies
o A multi-state co-operative society will require prior permission of government
authorities before the redemption of their shareholding.
o A Co-operative Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Development Fund will be
established for the revival of sick multi-state co-operative societies. The Fund will
be financed through contributions by profitable multi-state co-operative societies.
o The Bill allows state co-operative societies to merge into an existing multi-state
co-operative society, subject to the respective state laws.
o As per the Bill, the central government will appoint one or more Co-operative
Ombudsman with territorial jurisdiction. The Ombudsman shall complete the
process of inquiry and adjudication within 3 months from the receipt of the
complaint. Appeals against the directions of the Ombudsman may be filed with the
Central Registrar (who is appointed by the central government) within a month.
• Key issues in the bill -
o Sick multi-state co-operative societies will be revived by a Fund that will be financed
through contributions by profitable multi-state co-operative societies. This effectively
imposes a cost on well-functioning societies.
o Giving the government the power to restrict redemption of its shareholding in multi-
state co-operative societies may ensure their control in case of malfunctioning co-
operatives, but it may go against the co-operative principles of autonomy and
independence.
▪ So far, the decision of redemption was taken as per the byelaws of the
societies. If the byelaws are silent on the redemption of shares held by these
entities, it can be done through a mutually agreed process between the
society and the entity.

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Knowledge Nuggets
• The 7th schedule of the Indian Constitution gives the power of enacting State Cooperative
laws to state legislators. The legislation for the multi-state cooperative law is made by the
Centre.
• The 7th schedule provides the Union, State, and Concurrent list to define the legislative
powers of the respective legislators.
Source: PRS and The Hindu

7. Central Government had introduced the “Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled
Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023” in the Lok Sabha to include four communities in the
list of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Jammu and Kashmir, which are “Gadda Brahmin”, “Koli”,
“Paddari Tribe”, and “Pahari Ethnic Group”.
Knowledge Nuggets
• At present, the dominant ST communities in J&K are the Gujjars and Bakerwals.
• With a population of almost 18 lakhs, the Gujjar-Bakerwal are the third largest group after
Kashmiris and Dogras in J&K.
• They were given ST status in 1991, along with the two smaller groups of Gaddis and
Sippis.
• This entitled these four communities to 10% reservation in government jobs and
admission to educational institutions; in 2019, they were empowered politically after the
Centre announced a 10% quota for them in Lok Sabha and Assembly seats in J&K.
Source: IE

8. 50th meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Mission for Clean Ganga has been
held.
Approvals given for-
• 7 projects worth around Rs. 692 crores.
o 4 Projects are related to sewage management in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
• Initiation of M.Sc. Course in Freshwater Ecology and Conservation at Ganga Aqualife
Conservation Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun at an estimated
cost of Rs. 6.86 crore for 10 years.
• Preparation of 60-70 Urban River Management Plans (URMPs) in two phases costing
around Rs 20 crore.

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o The project is part of the River-Cities Alliance (RCA) under Namami Gange, which
provides cities opportunities to cooperate and work together.
Knowledge Nuggets
National Mission on Clean Ganga
• It is being implemented by the National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and
Management of River Ganga also known as the National Ganga Council.
• This mission was established in August 2011 under the Societies Registration
Act,1860 as a registered society.
Namami Gange Programme
• It is an Integrated Conservation Mission, approved as a ‘Flagship Programme’ by the
Union Government in June 2014.
• It aims to accomplish the twin objectives of effective abatement of pollution and
conservation and rejuvenation of National River Ganga.
River Cities alliance
• It is a joint initiative of the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga
Rejuvenation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) & the Ministry of Housing and
Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
• It aims to connect river cities and focus on sustainable river centric development.
• The alliance was formed in November 2021. Initially there were 30 cities, now it has been
expanded to 109.
Source: PIB

9. 7 different products from Rajasthan, Goa and Uttar Pradesh get Geographical Indication (GI)
tag.
• Geographical Indication (GI) is an indication used to identify goods having special
characteristics originating from a definite geographical territory.
Products State Description
Jalesar Dhatu Shilp Uttar Pradesh Metal Craft
Goa Mankurad Mango Goa Mango Variety
Goan Bebinca Goa Traditional dessert
Udaipur Koftgari Metal Rajasthan Ornamented weapons
Craft
Bikaner Kashidakari Craft Rajasthan Exquisite needlework

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Jodhpur Bandhej Craft Rajasthan Art of tying and dyeing

Bikaner Usta Kala Craft Rajasthan Artistic camel hide craftsmanship

Knowledge Nuggets
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act,
1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical
indications relating to goods in India.
• This tag is valid for a period of 10 years following which it can be renewed.
What is the significance of tag?
• Once a product gets this tag, any person or company cannot sell a similar item under
that name.
• GI registration of a product provides it legal protection and prevention against
unauthorised use by others.
• GI tag helps in promoting the exports of the product.
• It also provides comfort to customers about the authenticity of that product.
Source: TH

10. Directorate General of Training under the Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has partnered with Amazon Web Services to upskill students.
• The Amazon India’s cloud services arm Amazon Web Services (AWS) will upskill students in
cloud computing, data annotation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), to
boost their capabilities and employability.
• DGT implements long-term institutional skill training in the country through its network of
about 15,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 33 National Skill Training Institutes
(NSTIs).
Source: FE

11. India has withdrawn its 8-athlete ‘Wushu’ (martial arts) athletes contingent from the Summer
World University Games in Chengdu, China.
• Reason of the move- In response to China's issuance of stapled visas to 3 athletes from
the Indian team, all of whom were from Arunachal Pradesh.
Knowledge Nuggets
What are Stapled Visas?

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• A stapled visa is an unstamped piece of paper attached to a passport with staples or a

pin.
• Unlike regular visas that are affixed and stamped directly on the passport, stapled visas are
detachable.
• China has consistently denied stamped visas to Indian citizens from Arunachal Pradesh,
citing territorial dispute and maintained a segregated approach to areas it considers
disputed.
• The stapled visas are considered valid by China, but India refuses to accept them as
legitimate travel documents.
Source: IE

12. Foxconn to invest $600 million in Karnataka for two manufacturing projects.
• The first project, with an investment of $350 million, will focus on producing casing
components for iPhones. The venture is expected to create 12,000 jobs, providing a
significant boost to local employment.
• In other project, Foxconn will collaborate with Applied Materials in a $250 million project to
manufacture chip-making tools.
• A week ago, Foxconn has signed a letter of intent with Tamil Nadu government to invest
₹1,600 crore to establish a manufacturing facility in Kancheepuram district.
o Taiwanese firm Foxconn Technology Group is a key supplier to Apple Inc.
Source: ET, TH

13. Government has asked Pharma companies to adopt good manufacturing practices to
ensure manufacturing of quality drugs.
• The Union Health Ministry has given 6 months’ time to Pharma companies with turnover
of more than Rs. 250 crores to adopt Good Manufacturing Practices and those with less
than Rs. 250 crores have been given 12 months.
What are Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)?
• These are mandatory standards that bring quality into the product by way of control of
materials, methods, machine, and processes.
Present scenario:
• There are around 10,500 manufacturing units in the country, of which around 8,500 falls
under micro, small and medium level enterprises, or MSMEs.

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• India is a major exporter of medicines to low- and middle-income countries which

require GMP certification from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
• However only 2,000 units in the MSME category in the country have WHO GMP
certification.
Knowledge Nuggets
• In India, schedule M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, deals with GMP for
pharmaceutical manufacturing units, including specific requirements pertaining to
premises, plant and equipment.
• GMP were first incorporated in Schedule M in 1988. The norms were last amended in
2018.
Source: NoA

14. Government has introduced a new category of Ayush visa for foreign nationals.
• A new chapter chapter 11A – Ayush Visa has been incorporated after Chapter 11 - Medical
visa of the Visa Manual, which deals with treatment under the Indian systems of medicines.
Significance-
• It will boost Medical Value Travel in India.
• According to the report ‘The Global Wellness Economy: Looking beyond COVID’ the
Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the Global Wellness economy will grow at 9.9% annually.
o Ayush based healthcare & wellness economy is estimated to grow to USD 70
billion by 2025.
Source: ET

15. Indian government has imposed immediate restrictions on importing laptops, tablets, and
personal computers falling under HSN 8741 category.
What do the new rules say?
• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce issued a notification
saying that any import of laptops, tablets, etc., under Harmonized System of
Nomenclature (HSN) 8471 shall be ‘restricted’ and would be allowed against a valid
license from DGFT from ‘trusted’ sources.
• Exemption for imports under Baggage Rules, R&D, testing, benchmarking, repair, etc.

Reasons behind the move -

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• To promote domestic manufacturing of these products. The new restrictions on computer

imports are part of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme that was launched by
the government in 2020 to boost domestic manufacturing and exports of electronics.
• Curtailing the majority share of imports of these items from China.

Knowledge Nuggets
Production Linked Incentive
• Motive- To offer companies incentives on incremental sales from products manufactured
in India, over the base year.
• The Union Budget 2021-22 has announced an outlay of INR 1.97 lakh crores for the PLI
schemes for 14 key sectors.
• The updated PLI scheme for IT hardware has been allocated a budgetary outlay
of ₹17,000 crore in May 2023.
o The PLI scheme for IT hardware was first notified in March 2021.
o PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT hardware covers laptops, tablets, all-in-one PCs, servers
and ultra-small form factor devices.
Harmonised System of Nomenclature
• The HSN is a system that assigns a unique code to every product that is traded
internationally.
• The HSN code is used by customs authorities around the world to identify and assess
tariffs on imported goods.

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• It is also used by traders and exporters to declare their goods and comply with the rules
of origin.
• The HSN code was developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) in 1988 and
is updated every five years.
Source: IE

16. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced the Heat Index on an experimental
basis.
Heat Index
• The Heat Index aims to provide general guidance for regions in India where the
combination of temperature and humidity leads to higher apparent temperatures, causing
discomfort for people.
• It considers the impact of humidity on high temperatures, providing a “feel-like”
temperature for human beings and indicating the level of discomfort.

Color Codes for Experimental Heat Index -

• The Heat Index is represented with different color codes to signify the varying levels of heat
impact and discomfort:
o Green: Below 35°C
o Yellow: Range of 36-45°C
o Orange: Range of 46-55°C
o Red: Above 55°C

Source: PIB
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17. Government has launched the Study in India (SII) portal for international students.
• Purpose- To provide an integrated one-stop solution for student registration and visa
application process.
• The Study in India or SII programme is a flagship project launched by the education
ministry in 2018 with an aim to endorse India as a prime education hub for international
students by inviting them to pursue higher education in the country.
Source: HT

18. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a new app called 'Rajmargyatra'
to improve user experience on highways and create a ‘citizen-centric unified mobile
application’.
• The app will have following features-
• Essential highway information
• Complaint redressal
• FASTag services
• Safe driving features
Source: LM

19. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has launched Port Health
Organisation (PHO) module under Sagar Setu - National Logistics Portal (Marine) to
enable faster & simpler ecosystem to promote Ease of Doing Business.
• PHO will conduct disease surveillance, health inspection and quarantine measures to
safeguard citizens and port workers.
Source: PIB

20. President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated ‘Unmesha’ – International
Literature Festival and ‘Utkarsh’ – Festival of Folk and Tribal Performing Arts at Bhopal,
Madhya Pradesh.
Source: PIB

21. The President of India, Droupadi Murmu inaugurated ‘Unmesha’ – International Literature
Festival and ‘Utkarsh’ – Festival of Folk and Tribal Performing Arts at Bhopal, Madhya
Pradesh.

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Source: PIB

22. Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Minister for External Affairs Dr S
Jaishankar jointly launched Study in India (SII) portal to provide information about higher
education institutions (HEIs) in India.
• The portal will have information about the academic facilities, research support and
related information available in the institutes.
• It will be a one-stop spot for student registration, visa application process, choosing the
desired courses and receiving offer letters from the institute.
• Educational institutions which fulfil the given criteria will be a part of the Study in India
programme -
o National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking (<=100)
o National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation score (>=3.01)
o Institutes of National Importance (INI)
Source: IE

23. Union Ministry of Education has chosen Oracle Cloud Infrastructure to modernise and
upgrade its Diksha platform to provide educational resources to millions of additional
students, teachers and collaborators across India.
• The DIKSHA migration project is being implemented by two Oracle PartnerNetwork
members, Bharti Airtel and Trigyn Technologies. DIKSHA will be deployed in the Oracle
Cloud Mumbai region.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Launched in 2017, DIKSHA is one of India’s largest and most successful digital public
infrastructure (DPI) initiatives, which was developed for school education and
foundational learning programmes.
o DIKSHA is the platform for providing quality e-content for school education in
States/UTs and QR coded Energized Textbooks for all grades (one nation, one
digital platform).
• The platform supports 1.48 million schools across all of India’s 35 states and Union
Territories and is available in 36 Indian languages.

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• Using the open-source platform Sunbird, developed by the EkStep Foundation,

DIKSHA helps teachers support inclusive learning for communities of underserved and
disabled learners across the country.
Source: BT PIB

24. Godrej Security Solutions has secured a significant project to provide an advanced Key
Management System to Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC-SHAR), India’s
esteemed Spaceport.
• The state-of-the-art Key Management System aims to bolster security measures for one of
the leading centres of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Source: FE

25. The Project Tiger division has been merged with Project Elephant and a new division with
the name ‘Project Tiger and Elephant Division’ has been created under the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
• Project Tiger -
o Launch year - 1973
o Number of tiger reserves – increased from 9 to 53
o Tiger population - more than 70% of the world’s wild tigers are thriving in Indian
forests
o 50th anniversary – Celebration on April 9, 2023, in Mysore.
o During the function, PM Modi launched the International Big Cat Alliance aimed at
conserving big cats of the world on similar lines of Project Tiger.
• Project Elephant -
o Launch year – 1992
o Mode - Centrally Sponsored Scheme
o Elephant reserves - 33
Knowledge Nuggets
• Why are the conservationists opposing this merger?
o Due to the merger, Project Tiger may suffer neglect as the activities of Project
Elephant and Tiger will increase the burden on staff.

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• Other conservation programs - Project Tiger was the precursor for the launch of other
species conservation projects such as Project Elephant, Project Lion and Project
Cheetah.
Source: IE WII

26. National Health Authority (NHA) has announced the extension of its Digital Health
Incentives Scheme (DHIS) under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) till 31st
December 2023.
• Under DHIS, incentives are provided to hospitals and diagnostic labs and to the providers
of digital health solutions such as Hospital/ Health Management Information System
(HMIS) and Laboratory Management Information System (LMIS) for adopting and
enabling transformative digitization under ABDM.
• The DHIS was launched with effect from 1st January 2023 as part of the Ayushman Bharat
Digital Mission.
• Under the DHIS, the eligible health facilities and digital solutions companies shall be
able to earn financial incentives of up to Rs. 4 crores based on the number of digital
health records created and linked to ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) numbers
of the patients.
• This incentive can be availed by the health facilities (hospitals, diagnostic labs) and Digital
Solution Companies, registered with ABDM’s Health Facility Registry (HFR) and fulfilling the
eligibility criterion specified under the scheme.
Source: PIB

27. International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission (SSC)
and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) have partnered to establish the Center for Species
Survival (CSS) for South Asia in India.
• This will be the 10th Centre for Species Survival in the world and the first of its kind in
South Asia.
Source: Deccan Herald

28. Rajya Sabha has passed the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023 to
replace the Science and Engineering Research Board Act, 2008.
• The bill will dissolve Science and Engineering Research Board and create the
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF).
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• Functions of NRF - NRF will be the apex body in the country to provide strategic direction
for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the fields of:
(i) natural sciences including mathematics
(ii) engineering and technology
(iii) environmental and earth sciences
(iv) health and agriculture, and
(v) scientific and technological interfaces of humanities and social sciences
• Funds for NRF - The Foundation will be financed through:
(i) grants and loans from the central government,
(ii) donations to the fund,
(iii) income from investments of the amounts received by the Foundation, and
(iv) all amounts with the Fund for Science and Engineering Research set up under
the 2008 Act
• Budget for NRF - Rs. 50,000 crore for five years (2023-28), out of which Rs. 36,000
crores, almost 80%, is going to come from non-government sources, from industry &
philanthropists, from domestic as well as outside sources
• Governing Board - NRF will have a Governing Board headed by the Prime Minister of
India.
o Other members of the Board are:
(i) Union Ministers of Science and Technology, Education as Vice Presidents,
(ii) Principal Scientific Advisor as Member Secretary, and
(iii) Secretaries to the Departments of Science and Technology, Biotechnology, and
Scientific and Industrial Research
o The President of the Board may appoint or nominate additional members to the
Board. These may include: (i) up to five members from business organisations or
industries, (ii) one member from the fields of social sciences and humanities, and (iii)
up to six experts from natural sciences, engineering, and technology.
o The President may appoint a Chief Executive Officer, who should be of the rank of
an Additional Secretary, or above.
• The Foundation will have an Executive Council to undertake implementation, which will be
chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
Source: PRS and PIB

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29. Rajya Sabha has passed the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and
Discipline) Bill, 2023.
• Purpose - to empower the Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command of Inter-
services Organisations to exercise disciplinary or administrative control over the service
personnel under their command, irrespective of their service
• Existing Inter-services Organisations (Andaman and Nicobar Command, the Defence
Space Agency, and the National Defence Academy) will be deemed to have been
constituted under the Bill.
Source: PRS

30. The Sahitya Akademi will publish an anthology of poems with contributions from each of the
G-20 nations to commemorate India’s presidency of the grouping.
• The Sahitya Akademi is an autonomous body under the Union Culture Ministry.
• The collection of poems, to be titled Under the Same Sky, has been curated by noted poet
Ranjit Hoskote.
Source: The Hindu

31. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 508 railway
stations across the country under the Amrit Bharat Station scheme.
• The redevelopment will cost around ₹25,000 crore.
• These 508 stations are spread across 27 states and union territories, including 55 each
in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, 49 in Bihar, 44 in Maharashtra, 37 in West Bengal, among
others.
• Prime Minister has laid the foundation stone for the rejuvenation of 13 railway stations
under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) in Karnataka.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)?
• It was launched in February 2023 by the Ministry of Railways.
• The scheme plans to redevelop 1,309 stations across the country and is based
on Master Planning for long term.

Objectives of the ABSS -

• The ABSS aims at enhancing the facilities beyond the Minimum Essential Amenities.

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• It also aimed at construction of Roof Plazas and City Centres at the station.
• It caters for the introduction of new amenities as well as upgradation and replacement of
existing amenities.
• Scope of work under ABSS: The ABSS involves improvement of amenities at the
stations like-
• Entry and exit, circulating areas, waiting halls, toilets, lift/escalators, cleanliness, free Wi-
Fi
• Kiosks for local products through schemes like ‘One Station One Product’
• Nominated spaces for business meetings, landscaping, etc.
Source: HT

32. The construction of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage
(IICBCH) formally began at Lumbini in Nepal.
• In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the construction of the
Buddhist Centre.
Source: ANI

33. ‘Digital India RISC-V’ Symposium was organised by IIT Madras and IIT-M Pravartak
Technologies Foundation in Chennai.
• ‘RISC’ stands for ‘Reduced Instruction Set Computer’ and ‘V’ stands for the fifth
generation.
• The RISC-V project began in 2010. The RISC-V foundation was formed in 2015 with IIT
Madras being one of the founder members.
• The RISC-V ISA enables a new era of processor innovation through open standard
collaboration and aims to deliver a new level of free, extensible software and hardware
freedom on architecture, paving the way for the next 50 years of computing design and
innovation.
• IIT-Madras developed ‘SHAKTI,’ India’s first indigenously designed microprocessor based
on RISC-V ISA.
• The DIR-V (Digital India RISC-V) Microprocessor Program was launched in 2022 to
enable the creation of Microprocessors
Source: PIB

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34. India has handed over ₹450 million to Sri Lanka to fund its digital identity project Sri Lanka
Unique Digital Identity Project (SLUDI).
• Aim of the project- To collect biographic and biometric information, including facial, iris
and fingerprint data, which will be stored in a centralised system to issue identification cards
as per the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

How will it be beneficial?

• The implementation of the project would lead to more effective and efficient delivery of
government services, poverty reduction and welfare programs; financial inclusion through
better access to banking and other products/services.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The SLUDI project commenced with the signing of a MoU between Sri Lanka and India in
March 2022 and an Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Project Monitoring Committee (JPMC) for the
Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project (SL-UDI) was introduced.
• The Government of India is overseeing the software development for the SL-UDI.
Source: TH

35. Central government has launched e-CARe (e-clearance for after life remains) portal to
facilitate fast transfer of mortal remains of Indian nationals who die abroad.
• Monitoring of the portal - A nodal officer from Airport Health Organization will monitor it
24x7. He will scrutinize and give fast track approvals.
• Documents needed- Scanned copies of four documents—death certificate, embalming
certificate, NOC from Indian Embassy or consulate and cancelled passport of the
deceased.
• The portal has two provisions- One for bringing dead bodies from aboard while other one
is to bring mortal remains.
• As a part of the plan, the information will be updated through email, text & what app
messages to Central International Health Division, Nodal officer, Airport Health Offices,
consignees and respective airlines.
• Final verification of the original documents will be performed at the airport by the concerned
official.
Source: LM

36. India will get its 1st Integrated theatre command in August.
pg. 19
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• What are integrated theatre commands? –

o Combining the resources of all three services (the Army, Navy, and Air Force)
under a single commander to secure a particular geographic area is known as
integrated theatre commands.
o There are theatre commands in several countries, including China and the United
States.
o The Shekatkar committee has recommended the creation of 3 integrated theatre
commands — northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border,
and southern for the maritime role.
Source: ET

37. Union Home Minister has launched the digital portal of the Central Registrar of Cooperative
Societies (CRCS) in Pune.
• The portal is aimed at promoting ease of doing business in the cooperative sector and
streamlining various processes.
• Objectives: Implementing completely paperless applications, ensuring automatic
compliance with the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act (MSCS Act) and rules through
software.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CRCS
• It is a statutory body under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002.
• It is responsible for the registration of MSCSs, amendment to by-laws of MSCSs,
arbitration, etc.
• Cooperative societies confined to one state only are governed by cooperative laws of
respective state governments.
Source: ET

38. ISRO has transferred the IMS-1 Satellite Bus Technology toAlpha Design Technologies
Pvt. Ltd. (ADTL), promoting private industry participation in India’s space sector.
• NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, has facilitated the technology
transfer.

What is a satellite bus?

pg. 20
[Type here]

• Satellite Bus is the main body of a satellite holding all the scientific equipment and necessary
payloads.
• The IMS-1 satellite bus is a small satellite platform developed by the UR Rao Satellite
Centre, Bengaluru.
• Its design aims to enable low-cost access to space and can serve as a dedicated vehicle for
various payloads (up to 30kg).
• Significance- The transfer marks the first instance of ISRO’s satellite bus technologies being
shared with private companies.
Source: isro

39. The Cabinet has given its approval for an outlay of ₹1.39 lakh crore for the BharatNet
project.

About BharatNet Project

• Objectives: The project aims to connect 6.4 lakh villages, covering all gram panchayats
in the country, with last-mile broadband connectivity through optical fiber.
• Implementation: The project was first approved by the Cabinet in October 2011 and is
being executed by Bharat Broadband Network (BBNL), as a special purpose vehicle
(SPV) under Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).
• Tie-up with VLEs: BBNL will collaborate with village level entrepreneurs (VLEs) to
provide connectivity, following a successful pilot project in 4 districts and later expanded to
60,000 villages.
• Progress So Far: As of now, around 1.94 lakh villages have been connected, and the rest
are expected to be covered in the next 2.5 years.
Source: HBL

40. Postal Life Insurance (PLI) has launched a pilot program for Direct Incentive Disbursement
for sales staff.

About Direct Incentive Disbursement Program

• The program will recognize the role of PLI’s sales force which is the driving force behind the
department’s accomplishments.

pg. 21
[Type here]

• Through the 'Direct Incentive Disbursement' feature, agents will be able to seamlessly
receive the transfer of their commissions from the previous month directly to their Post
Office Savings Bank (POSB) Accounts.
• It will impact around 2 lakh sales force members across the nation, including Gramin Dak
Sevaks, Direct Agents, Field Officers, and Departmental Employees.
Knowledge Nuggets
About the Postal Life Insurance (PLI)
• It is a government-owned life insurance company in India.
• Established: 1884.
• PLI offers a variety of life insurance plans to meet the needs of different individuals and
families.
Source: PIB

41. PM Modi has launched e-portal 'Bhartiya Vastra evam Shilpa Kosh- A Repository of
Textiles & Crafts’ developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology during the
9th National Handloom Day celebration held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, Delhi.
• The event was hosted jointly by the Ministry of Textiles & Ministry of Micro, Small &
Medium Enterprises (MSME).
• About the portal -
o It is an online repository that connects the history, present status, and future
developments of textile, clothing, and related crafts.
• Other events-
o Two films were showcased during the event-
▪ “संगठन से सफलता”- It highlighted the positive impact on weavers’ lives due
to an organized ecosystem of skilling, marketing and distribution by the
Ministry of Textiles.
▪ Another movie titled “Khadi for fashion” emphasized Khadi’s relevance for
employment and the economy.
o A 2-week educational initiative at the National Crafts Museum, benefiting over
10,000 students from 75 schools.
o Ekta Mall being developed in every capital city of the states to promote handicrafts
and products made from handlooms.
Knowledge Nuggets

pg. 22
[Type here]

• NIFT was established in 1986 under the Ministry of Textiles of the Government of India.
It was declared as a statutory institute in 2006 and empowered to grant its own degree
by the NIFT Act of the Indian Parliament.
Source: pmindia

42. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Academy has joined Interpol Global Academy
Network (IGAN).
• IGAN was launched in 2019, aimed at supporting academic collaboration among law
enforcement training institutions across the world.
• The CBI Academy, based in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh has become the 10th member of
IGAN.
• Benefit- Effective capacity building and innovation activities
Knowledge Nuggets
International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol)
• It is an international organization facilitating international police cooperation against cross-
border terrorism, trafficking, and other crime.
• Status: It is ‘NOT’ a unit or part of a United Nation system.
• In each country, an INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) provides the central point
of contact for the General Secretariat and other NCBs.
o Each NCB is run by police officials of that country and usually sits in the
government ministry responsible for policing. (Union Home Ministry in India.)
• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) represents Interpol in India as the country's
national central bureau.'
o CBI is the premier investigative agency of the Government of India.
Source: IE

43. TRAI has released recommendations on ‘Introduction of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure

(DCI) Provider Authorization under Unified License (UL)’
Key recommendations by TRAI
• Creation of a new category of license, under UL, called Digital Connectivity Infrastructure
Provider (DCIP) for creation of both active (like antennas, back-haul connectivity) as well as
passive (like telecom towers) DCI.
• UL offers service-wise authorisations, where licensees establish networks and use them to
provide services.
pg. 23
[Type here]

• DCIP Licensees can share owned infrastructure with other UL licensees and Internet
service Provider (except DCIPs).
Why we need a robust Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI)?
• Economic development as financial services and services like e-governance, telemedicine,
entertainment, and online e-commerce depends on it.
• Facilitating rapid adoption of frontier technologies such as AI, Blockchain, Internet of Things
(IoT) and success of Industry 4.0.
• Implementing various Government schemes under Digital India, Make in India, Ayushman
Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), development of Smart Cities etc
Source: PIB

44. India has pledged to support USD 700,000 from the India-United Nations Development
Partnership (UNDP) Fund to the project in Tuvalu, a Pacific Island nation.
• Purpose- Clean water initiatives and community development in schools.
o India will provide funding support for the “Motufoua Concrete Water Cistern”
project, initiated by the Tuvalu Government.
• This financial commitment aligns with “Sagar Amrut Scholarship” scheme for the Pacific
Island countries, wherein 1000 Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training
opportunities will be provided in the next five years.
Knowledge Nuggets
India-UN Development Partnership Fund
• The Fund is established by the Government of India in June 2017, to support projects in
developing countries that aim to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development
Goals.
• The Government of India has committed USD 150 million over the next decade for the
fund and it has supported 75 development projects across 56 countries.
Source: BS

45. Department of Space (DoS) is coordinating the integration of NavIC (Navigation in Indian
Constellation), India's indigenous satellite navigation system, with Aadhaar enrolment
devices.
NavIC and Aadhaar Enrolment Devices -

pg. 24
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• Field Trials and Technical Expertise: The DoS has successfully conducted field trials and
provided technical expertise to finalize the procurement specifications for integrating NavIC
into Aadhaar enrolment devices.
• Current Setup: The Aadhaar enrolment kits presently use GPS for location-based
services, which gather and authenticate personal information during enrolment.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NavIC
• NavIC, comprising 7 satellites, is India's equivalent of the American GPS, providing
positioning and navigation services.
• It offers Standard Position Service (SPS) for civilian use and Restricted Service (RS)
for strategic applications.
• Coverage area: India and a region up to 1,500 km beyond the Indian boundary.

Source: TH

46. 108th foundation day of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was celebrated in Kolkata on
July 1st.
• Establishment date - 1st July 1916
• ZSI HQ – Kolkata
• Director of ZSI - Dr Dhriti Banerjee

Highlights of the celebration event -

• Focus of the event – Mission Life
• Books - As a part of the event six books were released-
1) Animal Discoveries: New Species and New Records 2022,
2) Plant Discoveries 2022,
3) Faunal Diversity of 75 Ramsar Wetlands of India,
pg. 25
[Type here]

4) Records of Zoological Survey of India-Special Issue of ATS 2023,

5) 75 Endemic Birds of India and,
6) Fauna of India-108 DNA Sequences
• MOU - ZSI signed three MoUs for research and academic collaboration with the Royal
Government of Bhutan, IIT Jodhpur and University of Burdwan, West Bengal
o With Bhutan, the MoU was signed to conduct population assessment of the Red
Panda, through a non-invasive method.
o With the IIT Jodhpur and University of Burdwan, MoUs were signed for research
collaborations and student exchange programmes
• 2023 Animal Taxonomy Summit - The first two-day Animal Taxonomy Summit was
organised by ZSI
• Sarovar Mitra - ZSI will focus on the research and conservation of important wetlands of
Gangetic plains of India as ‘Sarovar Mitra’, by initiating a programme for citizen scientists
for better data dissemination and conservation awareness.
Source: PIB and ZSI

47. The Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), which consists of seven satellites and
India’s version of the American GPS (global positioning system), will be integrated into
Aadhaar enrolment devices.
• NavIC offers two services: Standard Position Service (SPS) for civilian users and Restricted
Service (RS) for strategic users.
Source: The Hindu

48. A total of six infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 28,000 crore have been
recommended under PM GatiShakti.
• The decision was taken at the 53rd Network Planning Group meeting, held in New Delhi.
Knowledge Nuggets
• In October 2021, PM GatiShakti - National Master Plan was launched to develop the
infrastructure.
• To ensure better decision-making and coordination among various Central
Ministries/Departments and State Governments, a three-tier institutional arrangement
in the form of Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS), Network Planning Group

pg. 26
[Type here]

(NPG) and Technical Support Unit (TSU) has been created, both at Central and State
levels.
• Besides NITI Aayog, 24 Central Ministries/Departments are a part of PM Gati Shakti,
represented in EGoS through their respective Secretaries.
• All logistics and connectivity infrastructure projects, entailing an investment of over Rs
500 crore, are routed through Network Planning Group (NPG).
Source: ET and PIB

49. Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Information & Broadcasting, Shri Anurag Singh
Thakur, addressed the "ImPact with Youth Conclave" organised by United Nations India,
Yuwaah at UNICEF, and Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.
• The conclave took place in Chennai on the eve of International Youth Day (August 12),
under the theme of “Igniting Passions & Sparking Change - Amplifying voices and driving
change with young people from South Asia”.
• Theme of International Youth Day 2023 - "Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable
World"
Source: PIB and UN

50. Ministry of Railways will establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras
(PMBJKs) at some of the railway stations.
• 50 stations have been identified for the pilot phase.
• Under this scheme, PMBJKs would be deemed ‘desirable passenger amenity’.
• PMBJKs will be set up and operated by Licensees at locations identified by Railway
Divisions. Stalls will be provided by E-auctioning with respective Railway Divisions through
IREPS. These stalls will be designed by NID Ahmedabad.
Source: PIB

51. A 19-member committee of National Council of Educational Research and Training

(NCERT) has been formed to formulate new textbooks for Grade 3 to 12, in conjunction with
the National Education Policy (NEP).
• The high-powered committee is named The National Syllabus and Teaching Learning
Material Committee (NSTC).

pg. 27
[Type here]

• M.C. Pant (Chancellor of National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration or

NIEPA) is the Chairperson of NSTC, while Prof. Manjul Bhargava (of Princeton
University) is the co-Chairperson.
o Other prominent members of NSTC - Sudha Murthy, Shankar Mahadevan and
Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM) Chairman Bibek Debroy
• On the other hand, a National Steering Committee is working on the National
Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE 2023), which will provide a
roadmap for the syllabus and textbook developers for School Education all over the country.
Source: The Hindu

52. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the Indian Web
Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC) at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
• The Challenge is spearheaded by MeitY, Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) and
C-DAC Bangalore.

What is a Web Browser?

• The web browser is an application software to explore www (World Wide Web). It
provides an interface between the server and the client and requests to the server for web
documents and services.
• Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are examples of web
browsers.

About the Challenge

• It is an Open Challenge Competition to create an indigenous web browser for global
use.
• The web browser has to be equipped with an integrated Controller of Certifying
Authorities (CCA) India root certificate.

Why does India need its own web browser?

• To have a web browser that can, by default, trust websites that have SSL certificates issued
by CCA-regulated authorities.
• Quick context-

pg. 28
[Type here]

o The Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) licenses and regulates the working
of Certifying Authorities in India. Certifying Authorities issue digital certificates called
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), which essentially authenticates a website’s
identity and enables an encrypted and secure connection between two systems
online. The certification protects user information on a website.
o Companies and organizations need to add SSL certificates to their websites.
• Currently, India depends on SSL certificates issued by foreign entities as foreign
browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox and Apple Inc.'s Safari.) only trust those certificates,
and not the ones issued by Root Certifying Authority of India.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The IT Act 2000 provides for the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) to license
and regulate the working of Certifying Authorities.
• The Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) has established the Root Certifying
Authority of India (RCAI) in 2002 to digitally sign the public keys of Certifying
Authorities (CA) in the country.
Source: PIB

53. Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) and its green hydrogen joint venture (JV) partners viz.
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and ReNew Power, has announced to invest USD 4
billion in their green hydrogen businesses over next 3 to 5 years.
• Last year, IOCL, L&T and ReNew Power agreed to form a JV company to develop green
hydrogen projects across the country.
National Green Hydrogen Mission
• About:
o NGHM is a part of National Hydrogen Mission (NHM) which was announced by
the finance minister in the Union Budget 2021-22.
o It is a program to incentivise the commercial production of green hydrogen.
• Objective:
o To make India a global hub for the production and export of green hydrogen.
o To harness green hydrogen energy to fulfil India’s Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs)
• Nodal Ministry
o Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
• Targets
pg. 29
[Type here]

o To develop Green Hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million

Metric Tonne) per annum by 2030.
o An associated renewable energy capacity of about 125 GW (gigawatt) in the
country.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Hydrogen
• There are no natural hydrogen deposits on earth, it has to be extracted from other
compounds by a chemical process.
• The vast majority of industrial hydrogen is currently produced from natural gas through a
process known as Steam Methane Reforming or SMR.

Source: ET

54. Reliance General Insurance Company Ltd (RGICL) has signed a contract with the
Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya for the implementation
of the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) and the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri
Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)-Phase 6 in Meghalaya.
Knowledge Nuggets
Megha Health Insurance Scheme
• It is a universal health insurance scheme introduced by the government of Meghalaya.
• The plan can be taken by anyone living in Meghalaya except for state and central
government employees.
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
• PM-JAY is the world’s largest health insurance scheme fully financed by the
government.

pg. 30
[Type here]

• Launched in September 2018, the scheme aimed to offer secondary and tertiary care
services to the vulnerable population in the society.
• This scheme aimed to offer medical coverage of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for
secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to poor and vulnerable families.
Source: ToI

55. Russia has launched its first lunar landing spacecraft, Luna-25, marking a significant step in
its renewed lunar exploration efforts.
• The mission follows closely after India's Chandrayaan-3 lunar lander launch, reflecting a
global interest in exploring the moon's south pole, potentially rich in resources like ice for
future human habitation.
Mission Overview
• Luna-25, launching from the Vostochny cosmodrome, aims to explore the moon's south
pole region.
• Despite the proximity in timing, Roscosmos assures no interference between Luna-25 and
Chandrayaan-3 missions due to different landing areas.
• The spacecraft, weighing 1.8 tons and carrying 31 kg of scientific equipment, will orbit the
moon for 5 to 7 days before descending to one of three potential landing sites near the
pole.
• Landing Site:
o The primary landing site for Luna 25 is near the lunar south pole, with a reserve
site located southwest of the Manzini crater.
• Mission duration:
o It is expected to operate on the lunar surface, studying regolith and exospheric dust
and particles, for approximately one year.
• Mission update:
o Russia’s Luna 25 spacecraft has crashed.
Source: IE

56. Haryana’s Nuh district has secured rank 2 in NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District
Programme.
What is Aspirational District Programme?

pg. 31
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• About:
o It was launched in 2018 which aims to transform districts that have shown
relatively lesser progress in key social areas.
o It covers 112 districts across the country.
o At Government of India level, programme is administered by NITI Aayog. In addition,
individual Ministries have assumed responsibility to drive progress of districts.
• Broad Contours of the Programme:
o Convergence (of Central & State Schemes)
o Collaboration (of Central, State level ‘Prabhari’ Officers & District Collectors),
o Competition among districts through monthly delta ranking.
• Delta ranking measures the incremental progress made by the districts on a month-on-
month through the Champions of Change dashboard (An online Dashboard).
Source: IE

57. China’s National Bureau of Statistics has reported that the Consumer Price Index
(CPI) has declined in July 2023 by 0.3% compared to a year earlier, causing Deflation in the
Country.
What is Deflation?
• It refers to a sustained and general decrease in the overall price levels of goods and
services in the economy.
o In a deflationary environment, consumers can buy more goods and services for the
same amount of money over time.
• However, deflation can occur for various reasons, such as reduced consumer demand,
oversupply of goods, technological advancements that lower production costs, or tight
monetary policies by central banks.
• In China’s case, reduced consumer demand and economic slowdown are the reasons
which has led to-
• Spiral Contraction: When consumers expect prices to fall further, they delay
purchases, leading to decreased demand for goods and services. The reduction in demand
can lead to lower production, reduced profits, and even layoffs, which in turn further reduce
consumer spending.

pg. 32
[Type here]

Deflation

Lower
Unemployment
spending

Lower income for

producers

• However, economic situations can be complex, and the actual effects of deflation can vary
depending on the specific circumstances of an economy.

What Caused Deflation in China?

• Zero-Covid Policy:
o The most prominent was a Zero-tolerance Covid policy that saw entire cities shut
down, sometimes for weeks at a time, in an effort to prevent the spread of the
coronavirus. This led to dampening of demand.
• Slowdown in Property:
o The property sector, which in recent years accounted for between 20% and
30% of GDP (Gross Domestic Product), has suffered a severe slowdown, with a
number of major developers unable to service their Debts, and many projects left
incomplete.
• Unemployment:
o Increasing unemployment among younger workers is also a problem, with the official
jobless rate for people ages 16 to 24 at 21%, and some experts expressing concern
that the real number is significantly higher.
How can China’s Deflation Impact India and the World?
• Positive Effect: If investment in the Chinese economy is lowered owing to the
increasing slowing rate of their economy, and now deflation, India could potentially emerge
and take over as the manufacturing hub for the developed economies.

pg. 33
[Type here]

• Negative Effect: China remains one of the biggest importers of iron ore from India. The
east Asian country imports almost 70% of Iron-ore from India.
Source: LM

58. Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation rate has jumped to 7.44% year-on-year (Y-o-Y)
in July from 4.87% in the preceding month as per data released by the National Statistical
Office (NSO).
• Consumer food price index (CFPI) in July has also surged to 11.51%, the highest level
since October 2020.
• Reason- Sharp rise in vegetable prices (due to erratic monsoon) over the past few
months, along with an equally sharp rise in the prices of cereals such as rice and wheat.
o Food prices account for nearly half of the inflation basket.

Knowledge Nuggets
Consumer Price Index- based Inflation
• It is also known as Retail inflation. It is the rate at which the prices of goods and
services that consumers buy for personal use increase over time.
• It measures the change in the cost of a basket of goods and services that are typically
purchased by households, including food, clothing, housing, transportation, and medical
care.

pg. 34
[Type here]

• There are 4 types of CPI -

o CPI for Industrial Workers (IW).
o CPI for Agricultural Labourer (AL).
o CPI for Rural Labourer (RL).
o CPI for Urban Non-Manual Employees (UNME).
• Of these, the first three are compiled by the Labour Bureau in the Ministry of Labour and
Employment. Fourth is compiled by the NSO in the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation.
• Base Year for CPI: 2012
• The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) uses CPI data to control inflation.
o In April 2014, the RBI adopted the CPI as its key measure of inflation.
Source: LM

59. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) has launched the 2nd Phase of
nationwide mass drug administration (MDA) Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis.
• The Union Minister has also launched the National Guidelines for Clinical Management
of Dengue Fever 2023 and Chikungunya Fever.
• Lymphatic Filariasis
o Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is caused by parasitic
infection which is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
o This impacts millions of individuals in tropical and subtropical regions across the
globe.
o It is commonly known as elephantiasis.

pg. 35
[Type here]

o Filariasis is a parasitic infection caused by microscopic, thread-like worms known

as filariae.
• Target: India aims to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027, three years ahead of the
global target, through a mission-driven strategy.
o WHO's Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) launched
in 2000 with a mission to eradicate the disease.
o GPELF aims to validate elimination in 80% of endemic countries by achieving
sustained low infection rates and providing care.
• Multi-drug administration (MDA) Campaign is held twice a year synchronized with National
Deworming Day (10th Feb and 10th August).

Knowledge Nuggets
According to World Health Organisation,
• Mass Drug Administration (MDA), is the administration of antimalarial treatment to all
age groups of a defined population or every person living in a defined geographical area
at approximately the same time and often at repeated intervals.
Source: PIB

60. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce &
Industry and Ministry of Rural Development has jointly launched ‘One District One Product’
Wall at SARAS Ajeevika Store.
• SARAS Aajeevika is an initiative by Deendayal Antyodaya (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural
Development, Government of India.
o It is a strong supporter of women's empowerment, with a special focus on uplifting
women artisans and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
• 'ODOP Wall' aims to showcase India's craft uniqueness worldwide.
• ODOP initiative focuses on promoting one unique product from each district, fostering
balanced regional development.
Source: PIB

61. DMRC has launched a new initiative CarbonLite Metro Travel.

• Purpose: To help people understand their contribution to reducing CO2 emissions by
opting for metro rail services.
• The initiative is in line with the Government of India’s Mission Lifestyle for Environment
(LiFE).
pg. 36
[Type here]

• Based on comprehensive research conducted by The Energy and Resources Institute

(TERI), Delhi, the initiative underscores that each kilometre travelled by metro train instead
of road vehicles results in a noteworthy reduction of 32.38 gram of CO2 emissions.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The idea of LiFE was introduced by India during the 26th United Nations Climate
Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021.
• The idea promotes an environmentally conscious lifestyle that focuses on ‘mindful and
deliberate utilisation’ instead of ‘mindless and wasteful consumption.
Source: ET

62. The Technology Development Board (TDB) has entered into an agreement with Noccarc
Robotics Private Ltd., Maharashtra for the commercialisation of digitally enabled advanced
universal Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ventilators.
• TDB, is a statutory body under Department of Science & Technology (DST).
o It aims to promote the development and commercialization of indigenous technology
and the adaptation of imported technology for wider application.
• Noccarc Robotics is IIT Kanpur-Incubated Startup established in 2017.
o The board has pledged support of ₹3.94 Crores under the agreement.
• India imports around 85% of the medical devices.
Source: PIB

63. NCERT has formed a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material
Committee (NSTC) to revise textbooks for classes 3 to 12.
• The committee is chaired by National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration
(NIEPA) chancellor MC Pant.
• The committee aims to align curriculum with the National Curriculum Framework for School
Education (NCF-SE) under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
o The NCFSE serves as a guideline for developing syllabi, textbooks, and teaching
practices in India.
Source: IE

64. Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud has launched ‘SuSwagatam’, a web-based
and mobile-friendly application to generate entry passes for those visiting supreme court
premises.

pg. 37
[Type here]

• Purpose- This will enable a user to avoid long queues, and obtain a paperless entry pass
(e-pass).
Source: IE

65. Railways Ministry is set to establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras at
railway stations across the country to provide health care facilities.
About the Kendra
• These are set up under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana, which
was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and
Fertilizers in November 2008.
• Objective: To provide quality medicines at affordable prices for all, particularly the poor, so
as to reduce out-of-pocket expenses in healthcare.
• They provide generic drugs, which are available at lesser prices but are equivalent in
quality and efficacy as expensive branded drugs. All therapeutic medicines are
made available from Jan Aushadhi Stores.
Source: NoA

66. Union Home Minister has inaugurated 3 connectivity projects costing Rs 360 crores to
boost coastal security in Gujarat.
• The projects are namely-
o BSF's Mooring Place at Koteshwar in Kutch district
o Chidiyamod Biarbet link road and OP Tower in Kutch.
Source: NoA

67. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog has launched the National Space Innovation
Challenge (NSIC) 2023 in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
and Navars Edutech.
About NSIC 2023
• Objective: To ignite next generation space enthusiast to understand and contribute
towards growing Indian space economy and future space workforce.
• Launched by: It is national-level campaign launched by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) in
collaboration with ISRO and Navars EduTech.
• Participation Eligibility: It is open to all school students (Classes 5 to 12) from Atal
Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Non-ATL schools across the country.

pg. 38
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▪ Participating students will be given an open platform to innovate and enable themselves
to solve modern-day space technology problems.
• Duration: August 11 to September 20, 2023.

Knowledge Nuggets
Atal Innovation Mission
• Launched in 2016 by NITI Aayog, it is Government of India’s flagship initiative to promote
a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
• Function-
✓ Promote entrepreneurship by encouraging innovators to become entrepreneurs
through financial support as well as mentorship.
✓ Promote Innovation by creating a platform where ideas are generated through
like-minded individuals.
Source: PIB

68. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has launched Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) in National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
• Purpose: To strengthen apprenticeship ecosystem in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
• Objective: To promote Apprenticeship in the country by providing financial incentives,
technology and advocacy support.
• Launch Year: 2016
• Two components-
▪ Sharing of 25% of prescribed stipend subject to a maximum of Rs. 1500/- per month
per apprentice with the employers.
▪ Sharing of basic training cost up to a maximum of Rs. 7,500 per apprentice.
Source: PIB

69. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has officially inaugurated a
Microgrid Power Plant for Renewable Energy, aimed at fulfilling the electrical energy
requirements of rural communities.
What is a microgrid?

pg. 39
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• A renewable energy microgrid is an autonomous, localised and self-contained energy

system that incorporates renewable energy sources as its primary generation inputs. The
major building blocks of a renewable energy microgrid include various components and
systems that work together to generate, store, manage, and distribute energy in a localized
and sustainable manner.
Source: PIB

70. Union Cabinet has given approval to many new projects.

PM-eBus Sewa
• Aim: To augment city bus services with 10000 e-buses on a PPP model.
• The estimated cost of the scheme is Rs.57,613 crore, out of which support of Rs.20,000
crore will be provided by the Central government. The Scheme will support bus operations
for 10 years.
• Who will the scheme cover?
• The scheme will cover cities of 3 lakh and above population as per the census 2011
including all the capital cities of Union Territories, North Eastern Region and Hill States.
• Under this scheme, priority will be given to cities having no organized bus service.
• The scheme is expected to generate 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs.
• There are two segments to the scheme:
o Segment A – Augmenting the City bus services (169 cities): The approved bus
scheme will augment city bus operations with 10,000 e-buses on a PPP model.
o Segment B – Green Urban Mobility Initiatives (GUMI) (181 cities): The scheme
envisages green initiatives like bus priority, multimodal interchange facilities, NCMC-
based Automated Fare Collection Systems, Charging infrastructure, etc.

PM Vishwakarma Scheme
• Financial Outlay: Rs.13,000 crore for a period of 5 years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28).
• The artisans and craftspeople will be provided recognition through PM Vishwakarma
certificate and ID card.
• Credit Support upto Rs.1 lakh (First Tranche) and Rs.2 lakh (Second Tranche) with a
concessional interest rate of 5%.
• The Scheme will provide Skill Upgradation, Toolkit Incentive, Incentive for Digital
Transactions and Marketing Support.
pg. 40
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• 18 traditional trades will be covered in the first instance under PM Vishwakarma.

Extension of Digital India Programme

• Financial outlay of Rs 14,903 crore.
• Aim: To re-skill and up-skill 6.25 lakh IT professionals and train another 2.65 lakh persons
in information security.
• The AI-enabled multi-language translation tool – Bhashini – will be rolled out in 22
Schedule Vlll languages and 9 more supercomputers will be added under the National
Super Computer Mission.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Digital India
• Objective: To transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
• Launch Year: 2015.
• It is a flagship programme of the Government of India.

Seven multi-tracking projects

• Estimated cost - Rs 32,500 crores.
• The projects will be fully funded by the Central Government and will cover 39 districts in 9
states of the country (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha,
Telangana, Uttar Pradesh & West Bengal).
• The proposed projects aim to increase the existing network of Indian Railways by 2339 km.
• They also aim to boost the existing line capacity, smoothen train operations, reduce
congestion and facilitate ease of travelling and transportation.
Source: IE

71. First-ever WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine was held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• Purpose: To explore the role of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine in
addressing pressing health challenges and driving progress in global health and sustainable
development.
About Summit
• Objective: To mobilize political commitment and evidence-based action on traditional
medicine.
• Organisers: It is organised by World Health Organization (WHO) and co-hosted by the
Ministry of Ayush.
pg. 41
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• It will be largest international event on Traditional Medicine.

• It will serve as a platform for all stakeholders to share best practices and evidence, data and
innovation on the contribution of traditional medicine to health and sustainable development.
Knowledge Nuggets
WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine
• It was inaugurated in 2022 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• It is United Nation’s first and largest traditional medicine outpost in any developing country.
Source: PIB

72. Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation, 2023 has been awarded to
140 Police Personnel, in recognition of their outstanding service in the investigation.
• This medal was constituted in 2018, with the objective to promote high professional
standards of investigation of crime and recognize such Excellence in Investigation.
• It is an annual medal, instituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (Government of India)
and is given to the members of Central Investigating Agencies and State/UT Police
Investigating Agencies for excellence in investigation.
Source: ANI

73. National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) team has won the Gold
Award under the Excellence in Government Process Reengineering for Digital
Transformation Category-1.
• Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DAR&PG), Government
of India presents National Awards every year during National conference on e-Governance.
• The award recognised the dedication of the NAFIS team in creating a fool-proof fingerprint
identification system.
• NAFIS, which is developed by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), is a centralised
database of criminal fingerprints. It was inaugurated in August 2022, at the 2-day National
Securities Strategies (NSS) Conference held in Delhi.
Source: PIB

74. Union Cabinet has approved the Mutual Recognition Arrangement of Authorised
Economic Operators (AEO) between India and Australia.

pg. 42
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• The arrangement is aimed at providing reciprocal benefits to accredited and trusted

exporters of both the signatories in the clearance of goods by the Customs authorities of the
importing country.
• AEO programme is a voluntary compliance programme under the aegis of the World
Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards to secure and facilitate
Global Trade.
• This arrangement shall benefit our exporters to Australia and thereby promote a trade
relationship between the two countries.
Knowledge Nuggets
WCO’s SAFE Framework
• It was adopted by the WCO council in 2005 to enhance international supply chain security
and facilitate movement of legitimate goods.
• An entity engaged in international trade is approved by Customs as compliant with supply
chain security standards and granted AEO status & certain benefits.
Source: PIB

75. Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Electronics and IT,
Rajeev Chandrasekhar has inaugurated G20-Digital Innovation Alliance (G20-DIA) Summit
in Bengaluru.
• The Summit, is being organised on sidelines of 4th meeting of Digital Economy Working
Group (DEWG) under G20.
• Vital topics like ‘Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)’, ‘Security in the Digital Economy’,
and ‘Digital Skilling’ will be discussed.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Digital Innovation Alliance (G20-DIA) initiative was launched under MeitY Startup Hub
under India’s G-20 Presidency.
• It recognizes and accelerates the growth of startups from all G20 countries and 9 invited
guest countries in six sectors that are using digital technologies to solve humanity’s most
pressing needs.
• These 6 sectors are Ed-tech, Health-tech, Agri-tech, Fin-tech, Secured Digital
Infrastructure, and Circular Economy.
Source: PIB

pg. 43
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76. The Chairman of Central Water Commission (CWC), Shri Kushvinder Vohra, has launched
the mobile application “FloodWatch”.
• App is developed in-house, with readable and audio broadcast features.
• Information is available in English and Hindi.
Key Features of "FloodWatch" App
• Real-Time Flood Monitoring: Users can check up-to-date flood situations across the
country. Utilizes near real-time river flow data from various sources.
• Interactive Map for Forecast: Users can access CWC Flood Forecast (up to 24 hours) or
Flood Advisory (up to 7 days) using an interactive map.
• State-wise/Basin-wise Forecast: Provides State-wise/Basin-wise Flood Forecast (up to 24
hours) or Flood Advisory (up to 7 days).
• Widespread Accessibility and Platforms: User-friendly Android app which is accessible
globally. Free download from Google Play Store. Available on Apple iOS soon.
• Utilization of Advanced Technologies: "FloodWatch" app employs advanced technologies
such as satellite data analysis, mathematical modelling, and real-time monitoring.

Knowledge Nuggets
Causes of Floods in India
• Heavy Rainfall:
o This is the most common cause of floods in India. The monsoon season, which
lasts from June to September, brings intense and erratic rainfall to different parts
of the country.
o Sometimes, the rainfall exceeds the capacity of the soil to absorb or the drainage
system to carry away the excess water, resulting in floods.
• Snowmelt:
o The snow and glaciers in the mountains melt due to rising temperatures and flow
down into the rivers and streams.
o This can increase the water level and cause floods downstream.
• Cyclones and Storms:
o These are weather events that can bring strong winds and heavy rains along the
coastal areas of India.
o Storm surges can inundate low-lying areas and cause coastal flooding.
• River Overflow:

pg. 44
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o This is a cause of floods that occurs when the water level in a river exceeds its
carrying capacity due to excessive inflow from upstream or reduced outflow
downstream.
o River overflow can be caused by factors such as heavy rainfall, snowmelt,
cyclones, dams, barrages, or siltation.
• In 2023, the Yamuna River overflowed its banks due to heavy rainfall in upstream states
such as Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. The barrages in Delhi were unable to effectively
regulate and redirect the river’s flow, leading to flooding of several areas along the river.
Source: PIB

77. India’s first 3D-printed post office has been inaugurated by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout.
• Larsen & Toubro Limited undertook the project in collaboration with IIT Madras.
Technological Process
• Spatial Dimension: The post office covers an area of 1,021 square feet and was created
using advanced 3D concrete printing.
• Automated Procedure: Robotic printers used an automated process to layer concrete
according to the approved design.
• Strong Bonding: A specially formulated quick-hardening concrete ensured strong bonding
between layers.
• Rapid Construction: With robotic precision and pre-embedded designs, the project was
completed in just 43 days, far shorter than the conventional 6 to 8 months.
Advantages of 3D Printing
• Cost-Effective: The project cost ₹23 lakhs, indicating a 30-40% cost reduction compared to
traditional methods.
• Showcasing Technology: The project highlighted concrete 3D printing technology using
indigenous machinery and robots, showcasing its scalability.

Source: IE
pg. 45
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78. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways will launch the Bharat New Car Assessment
Programme (Bharat NCAP).
• This initiative is a significant move towards enhancing road safety by elevating the safety
standards of motor vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes in India.
• Manufacturers can voluntarily submit their cars for testing according to Automotive
Industry Standard (AIS) 197.
• Based on the test results, vehicles will be assigned star ratings for both Adult Occupants
(AOP) and Child Occupants (COP) safety.
• The proposed Bharat NCAP assessment will allocate Star Ratings from 1 to 5 stars.
What is the Significance of Bharat NCAP?
• The new regulations introduce the concept of safety rating of passenger cars
and empowers consumers to take informed decisions.
• Star Rating of Indian Cars based on Crash Tests will not only ensure structural and
passenger safety in cars but also increase the export-worthiness of Indian automobiles.
• It will also prove to be a critical instrument in making our automobile
industry Aatmanirbhar with the mission of making India the Number 1 automobile hub in
the world.
Source: ET

79. Global Initiative on Digital Health has been launched recently during G20 Health Ministers’
Meeting held under India’s Presidency in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
About the initiative
• It is a platform for sharing digital goods and knowledge to promote country capacity and
strengthen international cooperation.
• It will operate as a WHO-managed network to support implementation of Global Strategy
on Digital Health 2020–2025.
• Objective-
o ALIGN efforts to support Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025
o SUPPORT quality assured technical assistance to develop and strengthen
standards-based and interoperable systems aligned to global best practices, norms
and standards
o FACILITATE deliberate use of quality assured digital transformation tools that
enable governments to manage their digital health transformation journey.
pg. 46
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• It will strengthen mutual accountability to enhance the impact of future investments

• GIDH is a key deliverable of ‘Third Health Priority: Digital Health Innovation & Solutions to
aid Universal Health Coverage & Improve Healthcare Service Delivery’ under India’s G20
Presidency.

Source: PIB

80. AgniKul Cosmos, a space tech start-up based in Chennai, will launch its
Agnibaan SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD), the world's first 3D-printed
rocket into space.
• The launch is supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Indian
National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe).

Key Highlights of AgniKul's SOrTeD

• The Agnibaan SOrTeD is a customisable launch vehicle that could be launched in one or
two stages. It is powered by AgniKul’s patented Agnilet engine.
• Agnilet, is a 3D-printed, 6 kilonewton (kN) semi-cryogenic engine that uses liquid oxygen
and kerosene as propellants.
• Unlike traditional sounding rockets that launch from guide rails, Agnibaan SOrTeD will take
off vertically and follow a predetermined trajectory, executing precisely orchestrated
maneuvers during its flight.
• It is capable of carrying payloads up to 100 kg to an altitude of 700 km in five different
configurations.
• Agnibaan SOrTeD will be the first step towards launching the world’s first 3D-printed rocket
into space.

pg. 47
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Knowledge Nuggets
What is 3D Printing?
• 3D printing is also known as additive manufacturing which uses materials such as
plastics and metals to convert products envisaged on computer-aided design to real three-
dimensional items.
• It is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing which is cutting out/hollowing out a piece
of metal or plastic with, for instance, a milling machine.
• 3D printing traditionally has been used for prototyping and has a lot of scope in making
artificial limbs, stents, dental crowns, parts of automobiles and consumer goods, among
others.
Source: BT

81. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the ‘Graphene-
Aurora program’ at a function in Maker Village Kochi, Kerala.
• Purpose: The program aims to bridge the gap between research & development and its
commercialization, using the India Innovation Centre Graphene (IICG) centres in Kochi.
• The program has been allocated a total budget of Rs 94.85 Crore, with significant
participation from industry partners, including Carborundum Pvt Limited.
• Digital University Kerala will execute the program in collaboration with joint funding from
MeitY, the Government of India, the Government of Kerala, and industry partners.
• ‘India Graphene Engineering and Innovation Centre’ (I-GEIC) has been established as a
section 8 company. This is a not-for-profit entity, and its initial operations will commence at
the newly inaugurated Government of Kerala facility situated in Digital Science Park,
Trivandrum.
Source: PIB

82. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has notified the Green Hydrogen Standard for
India under National Green Hydrogen Mission.
About the Standard
• It outlines emission thresholds that must be met in order for hydrogen produced to be
classified as ‘Green’, i.e., from renewable sources.
• It has defined Green Hydrogen as having a well-to-gate emission threshold of 2 kg CO2
equivalent / kg H2 as 12-month average.

pg. 48
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• Its scope of the definition encompasses both electrolysis-based and biomass-based

hydrogen production methods
• Nodal Authority: Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power
• It will be nodal authority for accreditation of agencies for monitoring, verification and
certification for Green Hydrogen production projects.

Source: PIB

83. Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala has
unveiled the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock
Production) programme under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, along with an Infertility Camp in
Gujarat.
• The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, is spearheading
these initiatives as part of the Pashudhan Jagrati Abhiyaan under Inclusive Development.
• The ‘A-HELP’ program is designed to empower women through their participation as skilled
agents, making substantial contributions to disease control, artificial insemination as part of
the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), animal tagging, and livestock insurance.
Knowledge Nuggets
Rashtriya Gokul Mission
• It is being implemented for development and conservation of indigenous bovine
breeds since December 2014.

pg. 49
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• The scheme is also continued under umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas
Yojna from 2021 to 2026 with a budget outlay of Rs.2400 crore.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Source: PIB

84. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is developing Radio thermoelectric

generators (RTGs), in collaboration with the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC),
aimed at surpassing the constraints of conventional chemical engines for interplanetary
voyages.
• Chemical engines work well for satellite thrusters, but they are inadequate for deep space
travel due to fuel limitations and lack of solar power in distant regions.

What are the Radio Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs)?

• RTGs are innovative power sources designed to address challenges in deep space
missions.
• RTGs utilize radioactive materials, such as Plutonium-238 or Strontium-90, which emit
heat as they decay over time.
• This heat is harnessed and converted into electricity, enabling the propulsion and
power of spacecraft.
Source: TH

85. Chief Justice of India (CJI) has released a Handbook on Gender Stereotypes, offering
guidance on how to avoid utilising harmful gender stereotypes, in particular those about
women, in judicial decision making and writing.
• It highlights common stereotypical words and phrases that are often used to
describe women in legal documents.
• It also provides specific examples of language that should be replaced with more neutral
and accurate terms.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Gender stereotyping refers to the practice of assigning specific attributes, characteristics,
or roles to individuals based solely on their gender.
• These stereotypes can be pervasive in societies and can impact how people perceive
and treat each other based on their gender.
Source: SCI
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86. Cabinet has given approval for the continuation of the North East Special Infrastructure
Development Scheme (NESIDS) with a financial outlay of Rs. 8139.50 crore.

Knowledge Nuggets
North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS):
• It was approved by the Government of India as a Central Sector Scheme in 2017.
• Under the scheme guidelines of NESIDS, 100% of the central funding is provided to the
State Governments of North Eastern Region.
• The funding is provided for projects of physical infrastructure relating to water
supply, power, and connectivity, enhancing tourism, and social infrastructure relating to
primary and secondary sectors of education and health.
Source: PIB

87. Group 20 (G20) Pandemic Fund has approved the USD 25 million proposal by Department
of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) on “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India
for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (PPR)”.
• Implementing agency:
o Asian Development Bank (ADB) is the lead implementing entity, along with the
World Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organization.
• Benefits:
o The fund will provide dedicated resources for PPR and increase investments,
enhance coordination among partners, and serve as a platform for advocacy.
o The fund brings additional resources to India to reduce the risk of pathogens
emerging from animals (domesticated and wildlife) to be transmitted into the human
population.

Knowledge Nuggets
About the Fund:
• The Pandemic Fund was established in September 2022, and formally launched under
Indonesia’s G20 Presidency (2022) at the G20 meetings in Bali, Indonesia in November
2022.
• This is the 1st multilateral financing mechanism dedicated to providing multiyear grants
to help low- and middle-income countries become better prepared for future
pandemics.

pg. 51
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• The fund finances critical investments to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness,

and response capacities at national, regional, and global levels.
• The Fund hosted by the World Bank has already raised USD 2 billion in seed capital
from 25 sovereign and philanthropic contributors.
Source: PIB

88. National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest
and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has officially approved the Karauli-Sarmathura-Dholpur
sanctuary in Rajasthan as Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve of India under Project Tiger.
• It becomes 5th Tiger reserve of Rajasthan and 54th Tiger Reserve of India.
• The forest has currently 9 tigers.
• Other Tiger Reserves of Rajasthan-
o Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve,
o Mukandra Hills Tiger Reserve
o Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
o Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Knowledge Nuggets
Project Tiger:
• The Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to promote conservation of the tiger.
• Project Tiger is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to provide safe havens for tigers in the country’s
national parks.
Additional Info:
• Ranipur Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh (UP) established in 2022 is the 53rd Tiger
reserve in India.
• As per “Status of Tigers 2022” report, Madhya Pradesh (MP) has the maximum
number (785) of tigers in India.
Source: ANI

89. Ministry of Science & Technology has launched CSIR Prima ET11, India’s 1st indigenous
e-Tractor to promote sustainability and innovation in the agricultural sector.
• The tractor is developed by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) -
Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur, West Bengal.

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• The CSIR-CMERI will be celebrating the theme-based campaign “One Week One Lab”
from 11-15 September 2023, showcasing the laboratory's cutting-edge research, products
and technologies, expertise and facilities to various stakeholders.
Source: PIB

90. 15th BRICS Summit hosted by South Africa in Johannesburg, has been concluded.
• The summit was the first in-person gathering since 2019 due to the Covid -19 pandemic.
Key Highlights of the summit
• BRICS Expansion
o The membership has been extended from 5 to 11 countries, reflecting a concerted
effort to enhance its global standing.
o Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Ethiopia, and Argentina joined the BRICS,
amplifying the group's representation across the Middle East, Africa, and South
America.
o Full membership will take effect on January 1, 2024.
• New university ranking system
o BRICS Education Ministers have reached an agreement to establish a new
autonomous university rating system for higher education institutions.
o Current Ranking of BRICS member nations- QS BRICS University Rankings
▪ QS- British higher education marketing company Quacquarelli Symonds
o Criticisms of existing ranking: Lack of impartiality, Western bias, Limited
methodology.
Source: LM

91. National Health Authority (NHA) has launched India’s first Ayushman Bharat Digital
Mission (ABDM) microsite in Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram.
• NHA has launched the 100 Microsites project under ABDM to promote digital health
adoption and enhance healthcare accessibility for all.
What are Microsites?
• A Microsite is a defined universe of healthcare stakeholders (all healthcare providers, labs,
pharmacies etc.) interconnected by a common geographical area.
• It will enable patients to link the health records generated at these facilities with their
Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHAs).
• Why do we need microsites?
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o To counter challenges encountered in ABDM adaptation and increase private sector

participation in healthcare penetration.
Knowledge Nuggets
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
• The National Digital Health Mission (now known as Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission-
ABDM) was launched as a pilot on 15th August 2020 in six Union Territories.
• Prime Minister launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) via video
conferencing on 27th September 2021.
• Aim: To create a digital infrastructure to support the integrated healthcare system of
the country.
o To connect the various stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem through digital
channels, addressing the current gap in communication and information sharing.

pg. 54
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Source: LM

92. Ministry of Education has released the National Curriculum Framework (NCF)

Key Highlights of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF)?

• Language Learning:

o Students in Classes 9 and 10 will learn three languages, with at least two being
native Indian languages.
o In Classes 11 and 12, students will study two languages, including one of Indian
origin.
• Board Exams and Evaluation:
o Students are allowed to take Board exams on at least two occasions in a school
year.
o Only the best score among attempts will be retained.
• Alignment with NEP 2020:
o The NCF follows the guidelines of NEP 2020. Provides the framework for formulating
new textbooks from Grades 3 to 12 under CBSE.
o Textbooks for Classes 3-12 aligned with 21st-century requirements.
• Changes in Mandatory and Optional Subjects:
o Earlier, students in Classes 9 to 12 studied five mandatory subjects with an option
to add one more.
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o Now, the number of mandatory subjects for Classes 9 and 10 is seven, and for
Classes 11 and 12 is six.
• Emphasis on environmental awareness and sustainability.
• No strict separation between academic and vocational subjects, or between Science,
Social Science, Art, and Physical Education.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is the National Curriculum Framework?
• NCF is one of the key components of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• The NCF has undergone four revisions in the past - in 1975, 1988, 2000, and 2005.
• Four components of NCF:
o NCF for School Education (NCF-SE)
o NCF for Early Childhood Care and Education (Foundational Stage)
o NCF for Teacher Education
o NCF for Adult Education
• Objective:
o It aims to help in positively transforming the school education system of India as
envisioned in NEP 2020, through corresponding positive changes in the curriculum
including pedagogy.
o It aims to realize the highest quality education for all children, consistent with
realizing an equitable, inclusive, and plural society as envisaged by the Constitution
of India.
Source: PIB

93. Ministry of Defence has set up a 9-member committee under Prof K VijayRaghavan to
review and redefine the role Defence Research and Development Organization.
Source: HT

94. PM Modi has declared August 23 as “National Space Day” to mark Chandrayaan-3’s
success.
• The point where Chandrayaan-3 has made landing has been named as ‘ShivShakti’
• The point on the Moon where Chandrayaan-2 crash landed in 2019 will be called ‘Tiranga
Point’.
Knowledge Nuggets

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Other important days related to Space

• 20 July: International Moon Day, to commemorate the first landing of humans on the
Moon.
• 12 April: International Day of Human Space Flight
• 1992: International Space Year, the year of the quincentenary of Christopher
Columbus's voyage to the Americas in 1492.
First’s
• First human to journey into outer space: Yuri Gagarin, a soviet citizen (12th April,1961)
• First women to journey into outer space: Valentina Tereshkova, Russian (1963)
• First man to land on moon: Neil Armstrong, American (20st July 1969)

Project Director-
• Chandrayaan-1: Mayilsamy Annadurai
• Chandrayaan -2: M Vanitha
• Chandrayaan -3: P Veeramuthuvel
Source: LM

95. Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved capital acquisition proposals worth
around Rs 7,800 crore, to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.
• The approval, termed as Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), is the first step toward
procurement of any military equipment and hardware under India's defence acquisition
norm.
o The tendering and contracting process is undertaken only after the grant of AoN.
• For the Indian Air Force, the DAC has granted AoN for the procurement and installation of
an electronic warfare suite on Mi-17 V5 helicopters, which will enhance better survivability
of helicopters.
• For the Indian Army, the DAC has accorded AoN for procurement of a ground-based
autonomous system for mechanised infantry and armoured regiments.
• Further, proposals for procurement of a 7.62x51 mm light machine gun and bridge laying
tank have also been given the go-ahead by the DAC.
• All these procurements will be sourced from indigenous vendors only.
Source: PIB

96. PM Modi’s one day visit to Greece after 15th BRICS Summit.
pg. 57
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Key highlights of the visit

• PM Modi has been conferred with the Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, the second
highest civilian award of Greece.
o He became the first foreign Head of Government to receive this honour.

• Decision to upgrade Greek-Indian bilateral ties

o The leaders of both the countries decided to upgrade Greek-Indian bilateral ties to
the level of a "Strategic Partnership”.
• Decision to double the India-Greece bilateral trade by 2030, which currently stands at
1.32 billion euros.
• MOU on Cooperation in the field of Agriculture
o This included the establishment of a Hellenic-Indian Joint Sub-committee on
Agriculture for facilitating sectoral cooperation for mutual benefit.
• Cultural cooperation
o Both the leaders also agreed to encourage joint efforts in preserving and protecting
ancient sites, and strengthen cooperation within UNESCO.
• Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement (MMPA)

pg. 58
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o Both leaders agreed that an early finalization of a Mobility and Migration Partnership
Agreement (MMPA).
o This agreement would be mutually beneficial, facilitating in particular the free
movement of workforce between the two countries.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Greece has the longest coastline in Europe and is the southernmost country in Europe.
• Bordering countries: Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Republic of Macedonia.
• Capital: Athens
• Major water bodies-
o Aegean Sea (east)
o Mediterranean Sea (south)
o Ionian Sea (west)

Source: PIB

97. Business 20 (B20) Summit 2023, an official G20 dialogue forum with the global business
community, was recently held in New Delhi.
• The theme of B20 India 2023 was ‘R.A.I.S.E’, an acronym for ‘Responsible, Accelerated,
Innovative, Sustainable, Equitable.
• The Business 20 (B20) is the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business
community. It was established in 2010.
pg. 59
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• The B20 works to deliver concrete actionable policy recommendations to spur economic
growth and development.
• The chair of B20 India is Mr N Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, Tata Sons.
• At the culmination of the summit, N Chandrasekaran, Chair of B20 India handed over the
B20 Presidency to Brazil.
Source: PIB

98. Union Minister of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has launched the world’s
first prototype of BS-VI (Bharat Stage Six) Stage II compliant “Electrified Flex Fuel
vehicle”, developed by Toyota Innova Hycross.
• This is also India’s first flex-fuel electrified vehicle that can run in either electric mode or
100% ethanol.
• Flex Fuel Technology is a technology that allows the engine of the vehicle to utilize a higher
blend of ethanol in petrol or gasoline (more than 20%).
Knowledge Nuggets
Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP):
• It is aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on crude oil imports, cutting carbon
emissions and boosting farmers’ incomes.
• Blending Target: The Government of India has advanced the target for 20% ethanol
blending in petrol to 2025 from 2030 (in July 2021).
Source: FE

99. President of India has released a commemorative Rs.100 silver coin featuring the image of
the Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (N.T. R), a former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and a
legendary Indian actor.
Knowledge Nuggets
The Government Mint
• India Government Mint, Mumbai (‘IGM Mumbai’) is engaged in the manufacture of
circulation coins, commemorative coins, medals and medallions, and weights & measures
standards.
• The IGM Mumbai, established in 1829, is one of the oldest mints in India.
• It is part of the Union Finance Ministry and is operated by the Security Printing and
Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL).
Source: ET
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100. Union Minister of Heavy Industries (MHI) in ‘Review of Production Linked Incentive-Auto
Scheme’ has decided to extend the Rs 25,938-crore production-linked incentive scheme for
the automotive sector by one year.
• The program that was supposed to last for five years, from 2022-23 to 2026-27, will be
active till 2027-28.
• The distribution of the incentives will be on a quarterly basis, instead of an annual plan.
• The ministry also approved a request to add two more TAs to test the vehicles and
components.
o Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
o National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Madhya Pradesh.
▪ Current testing centres: Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in
Pune, Maharashtra and the International Centre for Automotive Technology
(iCAT) in Manesar, Haryana.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Production linked incentive?
• The scheme aims to provide financial incentives to eligible manufacturers based on their
incremental production and sales over a base year.
• Objective: Scale up domestic manufacturing capability, increase import substitution, and
generate employment.
• Launched in March 2020.
• Industries/sectors included: 14
o Automobile and auto components, electronics and IT hardware, telecom,
pharmaceuticals, solar modules, metals and mining, textiles and apparel, white
goods, drones, and advanced chemistry cell batteries
Source: ET

101. Ministry of Textiles has approved the Startup Guidelines for Technical Textiles – Grant for
Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical
Textiles (GREAT).
• This initiative offers a grant of up to Rs 50 Lakhs, supporting aspiring innovators in the
technical textiles field for 18 months.
• To be eligible for the grant, the startups shouldn't be more than five years old.

pg. 61
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• The government has also given its nod to 26 institutes for upgrading their laboratory
infrastructure and training in the application areas of technical textiles.
• The government has notified two QCOs (quality control orders) for 31 technical textile
products including 19 geotextiles and 12 protective textiles.
Source: LM

STATE NEWS
1. Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren has launched Jharkhand Elephant Tracker to reduce
fatalities in the human-animal conflicts by tracking the movement of the elephants.
• Need of the app - out of the total of 24 districts, 20 districts have elephants, due to which,
on an average, 80 people are killed while over 150 suffer injuries in man-elephant conflict
every year in Jharkhand
Knowledge Nuggets
• India is home to 60% of the Asian elephant population.
• As per Elephant Census (2017), Karnataka has the highest number of elephants (6,049),
followed by Assam (5,719) and Kerala (3,054).
Project Elephant

Source: NIE

2. Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) has transformed industry incubators into co-working
space called 'LEAP Coworks’
• KSUM is Kerala government's nodal agency for entrepreneurship development and
incubation activities in the state.
• LEAP, which is short for Launch, Empower Accelerate, Prosper aims to empower startups
and foster their culture of innovation.
• Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has inaugurated the operations of first phase of the
new Digital Science Park in Thiruvananthapuram. Kerala will also host India’s First
Technopark, first digital university.
• KSUM CEO: Anoop Ambika
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Source: BS, ToI

3. Karnataka government & US based International Battery Company has signed a

Memorandum of understanding to set up ₹8,000 crore recyclable Lithium-ion battery unit in
the state.
• This is Karnataka’s 2nd lithium-ion battery manufacturing unit to be established on a 100-
acre land at the Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) at Devanahalli in the
Bengaluru.
o Previously, Bengaluru-based Log9 Materials (an advanced battery-technology and
deep-technology startup) has inaugurated India’s first commercial lithium-Ion (Li-
ion) cell manufacturing facility on its campus in Jakkur, Bengaluru to produce
batteries for electric vehicles.
Source: HT

4. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched the Department of Forest &
Environment’s Amrit Brikshya Andolan web portal and mobile application, along with the
Wood-based Industry (WBI) registration web portal.
• Purpose- The initiative aims to make a significant impact on the State’s green economy by
planting a total of 1 crore (10 million) commercially-viable saplings across the State.
Source: aba.assam

5. Kerala govt has launched ‘Shubhayatra’ project to provide financial support to first-time
overseas emigrants from Kerala.
• The project envisages creating a positive and productive migration ecosystem by providing
a financial assistance of up to ₹2 lakh with a tax holiday for six months and attractive
interest subvention to meet the incidental expense of eligible candidates.
Source: The Hindu

6. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Department of Forest &
Environment's Amrit Brikshya Andolan web portal/mobile application and the Wood-based
Industry (WBI) registration web portal.
• Along with this, the theme song for the Amrit Brikshya Andolan, an initiative aimed at
planting a total of 1 crore (10 million) commercially viable saplings across the State by
individuals from various walks of life on coming September 17.

pg. 63
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Source: ET

7. NABARD has sanctioned Rs 1,974.07 crore to the Rajasthan government under the Rural
Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) for 2023-24.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Government of India created the RIDF in NABARD in 1995-96, with an initial corpus of
Rs.2,000 crore.
• With the allocation of Rs 40,001 crore approx. for 2022-23 under RIDF XXVIII, the
cumulative allocation has reached Rs. 4,58,410 crores approx., including Rs.18,500 crore
under Bharat Nirman.
• At present, there are 39 eligible activities under RIDF as approved by GoI. The eligible
activities are classified under three broad categories i.e.,
o Agriculture and related sector
o Social sector
o Rural connectivity
Source: ET and NABARD

8. Karnataka government formally launched 'Gruha Jyothi' scheme to provide up to 200 units
of free power to households in the state.
• Karnataka also launched 'Gruha Lakshmi' to provide Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to the
woman head of every family.
• 'Yuva Nidhi' scheme will provide Rs 3,000 every month for unemployed graduate youth
and Rs 1,500 for unemployed diploma holders and it will be launched by December end
or January.
Source: TOI

9. Kerala govt has launched the 'Athidhi portal', a user-friendly web portal to expedite the
registration process for migrant workers in Kerala and introduce a unique identification system
for them.
Source: ET

10. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid the foundation stone for the establishment
of a museum in Adichanallur, to showcase artefacts from ancient Tamil civilization,
excavated from this archaeological site.
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• The announcement of setting up of the museum had been made in the Union Budget in
2020.
Source: The Hindu

11. Reliance General Insurance Company Ltd has received the contract for the implementation
of Meghalaya's health insurance for citizens.
• The RGICL will be implementing the Megha Health Insurance Scheme and the
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana phase 6.
Source: ET

12. Nathdwara Pichhwai craft of Rajsamand in Rajasthan has received the GI tag.
• The project for supporting the GI certification for 5 products of Rajasthan - Jodhpur
Bandhej work, Koftagiri Metal Craft of Udaipur, Nathdwara Pichhwai craft of Rajsamand,
Bikaner Usta Kala, Hand embroidery art of Bikaner- is supported by NABARD.
• During 2022-23, NABARD disbursed an amount of Rs.31.04 crore on various
developmental interventions in the State.
Source: PIB

13. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri
Ravidas ji Memorial that will be constructed in more than ₹100 crores at Badtuma village of
Sagar district in Madhya Pradesh.
Source: HT

14. Maharashtra’s New Amravati station has become the Central Railway’s 3rd Pink Station.
• Central Railway became the first zone of the Indian Railways to set up all women managed
station.
• Matunga suburban station in Mumbai division became the 1st railway station in India to
be operated by an all-woman staff in July 2017, followed by Ajni station in the Nagpur
division in 2018.
Source: FE

15. Gujarat Chief Minister has launched the ‘Sinh Suchna’ Web App on the occasion of World
Lion Day celebrated on 10th August.

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• Purpose- To help the state forest department track the movement of lions to prevent
incidents of human-animal conflict.
• Other Launches:
o ‘Lion Anthem Film’ has been launched.
o Two books have been launched- ‘The King of Jungle – Asiatic Lions of Gir’,
written by Sakkira Begum and ‘Hu Gir no Savaj’ by Shri Arvind Goswami.
• The main event was organised in Sasan, the headquarters of Gir National Park and
Wildlife Sanctuary (GNPWLS) in Junagadh district of Gujarat.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Asiatic lion:
• The Asiatic lions are found only in Gujarat.
• The Asiatic lions comprise the world’s second most population of wild lions after African
lions.
• India’s National Emblem is adapted from the Lion Capital of the Ashoka Pillar in Sarnath,
Uttar Pradesh.
• Listed in Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, in Appendix I of CITES and
as Endangered on IUCN Red List.
Source: NoA

16. Chief Minister of Rajasthan has launched the Indira Gandhi Smart Phone Scheme during an
event organised at the B.M. Birla Auditorium in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
• During the event, CM also launched the ‘Digital Sakhi Book’.
About the Scheme:
• Under this scheme, free smartphones with 3 years of data facility will be distributed to 1.3
crore women in Rajasthan. The beneficiaries will include girl students (class 9 to class 12)
of government schools, college students, single women, and widows.
• Rs. 6800 will be deposited in an e-wallet through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) for the
purchase of these smartphones and SIM.
Source: NoA

17. Directorate of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh has entered into a strategic Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Luzern Ventures Private Limited (OGA).
• Purpose- To arranging around 5,000 special accommodations during the Maha Kumbh in
Prayagraj in 2025.

pg. 66
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Source: ET

18. Telangana has launched India’s first Agricultural Data Exchange (ADeX) and Agriculture
Data Management Framework in Hyderabad.
• The ADeX has been developed as a digital public infrastructure (DPI) for the agriculture
sector and is a collaboration between the State Government, the World Economic
Forum, and the Indian Institute of Science.
• In Phase-I of the project, the ADeX Platform is currently deployed in Khammam district and
will be expanded to the entire state over a period.
Knowledge Nuggets
Digital Public Infrastructure
• It refers to the technology and infrastructure that is used by the government and public
sector to provide services and information to citizens through digital channels.
Source: NoA

19. Union Highway Minister Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated the multi-level flyover at Pune’s
Chandni Chowk.
• The flyover is built by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) at the estimated
cost of Rs 865 crore, with contributions from Pune Municipal Corporation as well as the
state government.
Source: FE

20. India’s first Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drone) Common Testing Centre will be set up in
Tamil Nadu at an outlay of Rs 45 crore.
• Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is the nodal agency overseeing
the implementation of the Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor (TNDIC).
Source: ET

21. Goa has become the first state in the country to provide free IVF at govt hospitals.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment is the most common method of artificial insemination
for parents who are unable to conceive naturally.
• Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim is the first hospital in the country to offer free IVF
treatment. The entire funding will come from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
• The government will pay on an average Rs.5 Lakhs to Rs.7 lakhs for the IVF treatment.
pg. 67
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Source: ToI

22. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 40.5 million loan for an integrated
project focussing on Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Maternal Mental Health in
Meghalaya.
• The Government of Meghalaya will contribute USD 15.27 million to the project.
• This initiative attempts to focus on daycare centers known as Anganwadi centers (AWC),
aiming to enhance access to nurturing care.
• The project is initiated to strengthen home-based childcare for children aged 0–1.5 years
and center-based childcare for those aged 1.5–6 years.
Source: ET

23. Bihar government is planning to develop the 7-km stretch between Digha to Gandhi Maidan in
Patna as the Patna Marine Drive.
Source: ET

24. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has revived the debate over the Katchatheevu, a longstanding
point of contention between India and Sri Lanka, particularly with regard to fishing rights and
sovereignty over the uninhabited island.

Source: IPCS

pg. 68
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25. Telangana government and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to collaborate and make efforts in
order to implement the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• The collaboration will focus on promoting the ethical development and use of AI awareness
raising and capacity building.
• UNESCO has produced the first-ever global standard on AI ethics, the ‘Recommendation
on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence’ in November 2021.
Source: BS

26. Chief Minister (CM) of Goa has released the “Mayem Biodiversity Atlas”, India’s 1st Village
Atlas during an event held at Mayem village in Goa.

About the Atlas

• The biodiversity atlas is a document of 250 pages which offers details of the diverse flora
and fauna found in the village of Mayem.
• The atlas is prepared based on the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) prepared by the
village Biodiversity Management Committee.
• This atlas gives a socio-cultural history of Mayem village that dates back to the 12th century.
Source: lng

27. Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) has launched the Manav Sampada portal to ensure
transparency in the work of all the officers and employees of all 74 departments in the UP
government.
• A new division will be established within the Personnel department to oversee the
operations and manage the portal.
• National Informatics Centre (NIC) will oversee the security of the portal to ensure cyber
safety.
• The officers and employees have also been directed to declare their movable and
immovable assets on the website by December 2023.
Source: ET

28. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin has inaugurated the expansion of the state
governments’ free breakfast scheme to all state-run primary schools from classes 1 to 5.

pg. 69
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• With this scheme, TN has now become the first state in India to provide free breakfast to
students in all government schools.
• This scheme is viewed as an extension of the mid-day meals, the CM’s Free Breakfast
Scheme is aimed at reducing malnutrition and increasing attendance by providing nutritious
breakfast.
Knowledge Nuggets
• TN was the first to introduce the mid-day meal scheme in India in 1922 in the then-
Madras Presidency (Now Tamil Nadu).
• Former CM Kamarajar launched the full-fledged mid-day meal programme for all panchayat
and government-run primary schools in Tamil Nadu in 1956-57.
Source: HT

29. Chief Minister of Gujarat has launched a software called the Panchayati Raj Accounting
Information System Automation (PRAISA), to make online payment compulsory for
Panchayati Raj institutions.
• The software was launched at a state-level ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh campaign’ in
Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• “Meri Maati Mera Desh”, is a nationwide and people led “Jan bhagidari” initiative to
commemorate 75 years of India’s independence.
Source: ET

30. Government of Maharashtra has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DFL
Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH (DFL) to develop the football ecosystem in the state.
• The MoU has laid out three core elements to support the advancement of football within
the state of Maharashtra-
o Improving the technical and sporting expertise at all levels within clubs, associations,
colleges and schools
o Strengthening football structures across the Indian subcontinent
o Specifically supporting the progression of football within the Maharashtra district.
Source: Khelnow

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. For the first time, China and UAE will conduct “Falcon Shield” air defence exercise in
China's Xinjiang province.
Source: Wion

2. Israel has planned to sell its "David's Sling" anti-missile defence system to Finland.
• David's Sling system is capable of intercepting missiles fired towards Israel by enemy
countries such as Iran and Syria.
Knowledge Nuggets
• What is anti-missile defence system?
It is a system that seeks to defend a given area from attack by locating and tracking an
incoming missile and then launching an interceptor to destroy the missile before it can
reach its target.
Source: ET

3. SpaceX has launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 22 Starlink satellites from Space Launch
Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Base in Florida, to Low-Earth Orbit
(LEO).
• The launch has set the new record for the swiftest turnaround ever achieved from a single
launchpad. It was 3 days 21 hours and 41 minutes.
• This was the 6th launch and landing for this Falcon 9 first-stage booster.
Source: spacex.com

4. Voyager Space and Airbus have announced Joint Venture to Build and Operate world’s
first commercial space station ‘Starlab’.
• Voyager Space (USA) is a global leader in space exploration, and Airbus Defence and
Space (Airbus) is the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe.
• Starlab may replace the International Space Station which is due to retire in 2031.
Source: prnewswire

5. Russia has planned to conduct “Ocean Shield-2023” naval exercise in the Baltic Sea.
• Purpose- To assess the Russian Navy's readiness to defend the country's interests in a
critical area, as well as the coordination of the various military forces.
pg. 71
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Source: ET

6. Iraq has become the 18th country globally which has eliminated trachoma as a public
health problem.
• It has also become the fifth country in WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve
this milestone.
• Other countries which have eliminated Trachoma are Benin, Cambodia, China, Gambia,
Ghana, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malawi, Mali, Mexico,
Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Togo and Vanuatu.
• Iraq is also the 50th country to be acknowledged by WHO for eliminating at least one
neglected tropical disease (NTD), globally.
o WHO road map for neglected tropical diseases sets the target of eliminating
NTDs in 100 countries by 2030.
o The 2021–2030 neglected tropical disease road map targets the prevention,
control elimination and eradication of 20 diseases and disease groups by 2030.
• What is Trachoma? - Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease. It is caused by infection
with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which spreads from person to person through
contaminated fingers, fomites and flies that have come into contact with discharge from the
eyes or nose of an infected person.
o To eliminate trachoma as a public health problem, WHO recommends the SAFE
strategy- a comprehensive approach to reduce transmission of the causative
organism, clear existing infections and deal with their effects
o SAFE strategy is being implemented in collaboration with Pfizer.
Knowledge Nuggets

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• Iraq capital – Baghdad

• Iraq currency - Iraqi Dinar

• In the ancient times, Iraq was a part of the Mesopotamian civilization.

Source: WHO

7. Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) All Rice Price Index rose 2.8% in July from a
month ago, which is the highest level in nearly 12 years as prices in key exporting countries
jumped on strong demand.
• The index averaged 129.7 points in July against 126.2 points for the previous month.
• The July score was almost 20% higher than the last year's 108.4 points and the highest
since September 2011.
• India accounts for 40% of world rice exports. Last month, India restricted the exports of
rice to calm domestic prices.
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• India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Pakistan are among leading exporters of rice.
China, Philippines, Benin, Senegal, Nigeria and Malaysia are key importers of the staple.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The FAO Rice Price Update provides monthly rice export prices from major origins and
is released monthly.
• The index considers 21 rice export quotations. These quotations are combined into 4
groups, namely Indica, Aromatic, Japonica, and Glutinous rice varieties.
Source: ET and FAO

8. Ethiopia has declared a state of emergency in the Amhara region due to a surge in violence
between a local ethnic militia and the army.
• Capital - Addis Ababa; Currency – Birr
• Amhara is the site of the largest inland body of water in Ethiopia, Lake Tana (which is the
source of the Blue Nile), and Semien Mountains National Park (which includes Ras
Dashan, the highest point in Ethiopia).

Source: The Guardian

9. NASA and Axiom Space have signed an order for the 4th private astronaut mission to the
International Space Station.
• The mission, known as Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), is part of Nasa's broader strategy and will
comprise four crew members.
• The Ax-4 mission is expected to spend up to 14 days docked to the ISS.

pg. 74
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Source: IT

10. Eight South American countries that are members of Amazon Cooperation Treaty
Organization (ACTO) have signed the Belem Declaration during the Amazon Summit.

About the Belem Declaration

• Aim:To address the threats to the Amazon rainforest and highlight its significance in
confronting the climate crisis.
o The Belém Declaration contains 113 cross-cutting objectives and principles signed in
the Brazilian city of Belem.
• Outcomes- The declaration promotes sustainable use of biodiversity resources in the
Amazon.
o It recognises Indigenous knowledge as a condition for biodiversity conservation.
o Provides for the "creation of financial mechanisms aimed at promoting sustainable
development."
• ACTO will play a central role in implementing the new Amazon cooperation agenda.

Why Amazon rainforest is important?

• It hosts unparalleled biodiversity, harbouring around 10% of Earth’s known species.
• It constitutes over half of the world’s remaining tropical rainforests.
• It is known as the “lungs of the Earth,” playing a crucial role in global climate regulation
by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis.

Knowledge Nuggets
What is ACTO?

pg. 75
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• Formation: ACTO is an international organization established to safeguard the

Amazon basin and facilitate its sustainable development through international
collaboration.
• Founding Treaty: The Amazon Cooperation Treaty was crafted and signed on July 3,
1978, by Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and
Venezuela.
• Evolution into ACTO: In 1995, these countries formalized their commitment by founding
ACTO to actively pursue the objectives set forth in the original treaty.
• Multilingual Platform: ACTO operates in four official languages: Dutch, English,
Portuguese, and Spanish.
Source: ET

11. ECOWAS has become active in the wake of ongoing crisis in Niger, where a military coup has
ousted the President Mohamed Bazoum.
• The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional bloc
established in 1975 with the goal of promoting economic integration among its 15 member
countries in West Africa.
• Members: These countries include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The
Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone,
Senegal, and Togo.

pg. 76
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• Aim: ECOWAS aims to achieve a single common currency and create a large trading
bloc in various sectors like industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, finance, and
culture.
Actions taken by ECOWAS:
• ECOWAS has intervened in conflicts within the region, having deployed peacekeeping
forces and resolved conflicts in countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.
• It suspended members like Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso following coups in those
countries, refusing to recognize their new governments.
Source: IE

12. India and Japan are working towards restarting trilateral cooperation with Sri Lanka.
Aim
• The trilateral cooperation is aimed at enhancing the Indo-Pacific region's development and
has become increasingly relevant as all three countries share a vision of an open, free, and
inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Previous Developments
• Earlier, Sri Lanka had cancelled a joint India-Japan MoU for the East Container Terminal
(ECT) project in Colombo.
• The cancellation of the MoU, as well as the suspension of the Japanese-funded light rail
transit (LRT) project by the previous Gotabaya Rajapaksa government, had led to a freeze in
ties between Tokyo and Colombo.
Source: TH

13. International Conference on ‘Preserving Information Integrity and Public Trust in

Elections’ was held in Brasilia, Brazil.
• It was hosted by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and Tribunal
Superior Eleitoral, Brazil.
• The conference provided a platform for participants to explore innovative strategies, best
practices, and lessons learned from various countries.
• The Election Commissioner of India, Arun Goel, attended the conference.
Source: PIB

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14. United Nations Development Programme has developed an open-source software called the
National Carbon Registry which will allow countries to effectively manage national data and
processes for trading carbon credits.
• The software has been accredited as a digital public good (DPG).
• As a DPG, the registry uses open-source code, which allows countries to replicate and
adapt the information to fit their own needs and contexts.
• The registry’s modules, software and technical documentation can be reused and tailored
by countries, which could potentially reduce production costs and implementation
timelines.
Source: UNDP

15. 15th BRICS Summit is being held in Johannesburg, South Africa from today, and will
conclude on August 24, 2023.
What is BRICS?
• BRICS is an acronym for the grouping of the world’s leading emerging economies,
namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• In 2001, the British Economist Jim O’Neill coined the term BRIC to describe the four
emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China.
• The grouping was formalised during the first meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers in 2006.
• South Africa was invited to join BRIC in December 2010, after which the group adopted the
acronym BRICS.
• The BRICS brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing
41% of the global population, 24% of the global GDP and 16% of the global trade.
• The chairmanship of the forum is rotated annually among the members, in accordance with
the acronym B-R-I-C-S.

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Initiatives of the BRICS:

• New Development Bank
o During the Sixth BRICS Summit in Fortaleza (Brazil) in 2014, the leaders signed the
Agreement establishing the New Development Bank (NDB - Shanghai, China).
o It has so far approved 70 infrastructure and sustainable development projects worth.
• Contingent Reserve Arrangement:
o In 2014, the BRICS governments had signed a treaty on the setting up of the
contingent reserve arrangement
o The arrangement is aimed at forestalling short-term balance of payments
pressures, provide mutual support and strengthen financial stability of the BRICS
nations.
Source: ET

16. 2nd edition of Namaste Vietnam Festival (Hello Việt Nam Festival) was held in the 3 southern
cities of Vietnam from August 12-17.
• The theme of the 2nd Namaste Vietnam Festival was “People unite, warm friendship”,
highlighting the Vietnamese and Indian people's solidarity and warm friendship.
• The festival aims to promote cultural exchange, business relationships, tourism, and
strengthen the bond between Vietnam and India.
• The festival is organised by the Consulate General of India with the support of Ho Chi
Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO) and the Vietnam India Friendship
Association (VIFA).
Source: VP

17. 20th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ Meeting has been concluded in Semarang,
Indonesia.
Highlights of the meeting
• India and the ASEAN countries have reached an agreement to review their free trade pact
for goods and set a 2025 target or concluding the review aimed at addressing the
“asymmetry” in bilateral trade.
• The ASEAN–India Free Trade Area (AIFTA) is a free trade area among the ten member
states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and India.
o The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement was signed and entered into force in
January 2010.
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o The ASEAN-India Trade in Services Agreement was signed in November 2014.

o The trade with ASEAN accounts for 11.3% of India’s global trade in 2022-23.
What is a free trade agreement (FTA)?
• FTA is a pact between two or more nations to reduce barriers to imports and exports
among them.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)
• It was founded in 1967 by the five Southeast Asian nations of Indonesia, Malaysia,
Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
• Present members- 10
• It is a regional grouping that aims to promote economic and security cooperation
among its members.
• The motto of ASEAN is “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”.
• 8th August is observed as ASEAN Day.
• ASEAN Secretariat – Indonesia, Jakarta.
• INDIA is NOT a part of ASEAN.

About Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

• (RCEP) is a regional Free Trade Agreement between ASEAN and 5 other countries,
viz. China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
• It was signed in November 2020 after 8 years of negotiations.
• RCEP members constitute nearly a third of the global population and 29% of global
GDP.

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Source: TH

18. Global Environment Facility (GEF) has launched the new Global Biodiversity Framework
Fund (GBFF) during 7th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in Vancouver,
Canada.
About the framework
• Aim: To directly support global efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, a goal
agreed to by 196 countries as part of the Global Biodiversity Framework established at
COP15.
• Funding: Governments, non-profits, and the private sector can now contribute their funds to
GBFF.
• Fund allocations: 20% will be allocated to Indigenous Peoples and local communities
(IPLCs)
• Note: This is the first time there would be funds channelled to non-state actors like the
indigenous communities.
• First meeting: The first GBFF Council meeting will be held in January 2024.
Knowledge Nuggets
Global Environment Facility
• The GEF was established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit.
• It is a family of funds dedicated to confronting biodiversity loss, climate change, pollution,
and strains on land and ocean health.

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• It has 184 member countries, including India.

• Its secretariat is based in Washington, D.C.
• The World Bank serves as the GEF Trustee, administering the GEF Trust Fund
(contributions by donors).
Source: GEF

BANKING AND ECONOMY

1. Power Finance Corporation has become first member from India to join “Asia Transition
Finance Study Group” (ATFSG) on the side lines of G20 summit at Goa.
• ATFSG is an initiative by Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) for
promoting sustainable transition finance for Asian Countries.
• Other members and observers of the ATFSG include Japanese banks, major Asian and
global financial institutions, development banks, export credit agencies, and government
agencies.
• Asian countries will work together to promote financing for Energy Transition and Net Zero
goals.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Sustainable finance is about financing both what is already environment-friendly today
(green finance) and what is transitioning to environment-friendly performance levels over
time (transition finance).
• Transition finance is about financing private investments to reduce today’s high
greenhouse gas emissions or other environmental impacts and transition to a climate
neutral and sustainable economy.
Source: PFC and EU

2. Mumbai-based Fino Payments Bank approved the proposal for the transition of the bank into
a Small Finance Bank (SFB) license.
Knowledge Nuggets
Eligibility criteria for conversion into an SFB
• An existing NBFC/Microfinance Institution/Local Area Bank/Payment Bank needs to
have a minimum net worth of ₹200 crores or it shall infuse additional paid-up voting
equity capital to achieve net worth of ₹200 crore within eighteen months from the date

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of in-principle approval or as on the date of commencement of operations, whichever is

earlier.
• Further, existing Payments Banks (PBs) which are controlled by residents and have
completed five years of operations are also eligible for conversion into small finance
banks after complying with all legal and regulatory requirements of various authorities
and if they conform to these guidelines.
Source: MoneyControl and RBI

3. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), a mini-ratna CPSE PSU refinery
based in Karnataka and a subsidiary of ONGC, has become the single largest PSU-
Refinery (single location) in India for the year 2022-23.
• It was set up as a joint venture refinery in 1988.
Source: MRPL

4. LIC Mutual Fund has completed the takeover of IDBI Mutual Fund and merged schemes with
effect from July 29.
• Out of the 20 schemes of IDBI MF, 10 will be merged with similar schemes of LIC MF and
the remaining will be held on a standalone basis, which will take its total scheme count to
38.
Source: HBL

5. Karnataka Bank hosted the first edition of KBL – FinOne, a fintech growth program in
Bengaluru.
• Purpose - to develop innovative business models, providing seamless banking experience
& offering a complete product suite
Source: KB

6. Paytm has launched two innovative payment devices that are 4G enabled — Paytm Pocket
Soundbox and Paytm Music Soundbox.
• The Paytm Pocket Soundbox (first-of-its-kind portable device) can fit in your pocket and is
as small as a debit card and empowers merchants who are always on the move with instant
audio payment alerts.
• Paytm Music Soundbox doubles up as a speaker that issues payment notifications and
can also be connected to the phone to play music through Bluetooth.
pg. 83
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Source: Paytm

7. CRED, fintech company has launched RuPay credit card-based UPI payments in
collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• The launch of credit-on-UPI will empower CRED’s members to utilise their RuPay credit
cards for making payments via UPI.
• The users can pay businesses or merchants by scanning any UPI QR code, using their
RuPay credit card linked to their UPI.
Source: HBL

8. According to government data, the fiscal deficit for Q1 FY24 is ₹4.51 trillion, accounting for
25.3% of annual estimates.
• Reasons for rise in fiscal deficit- Increased capital expenditure and accelerated tax
devolution to the state governments.
For Q1 FY24
• Total expenditure- ₹10.5 trillion, or 23.3% of the annual estimates.
o During Q1 FY23- ₹5.86 trillion
• Capital expenditure- ₹2.78 lakh crore
o During Q1 FY23- ₹1.75 trillion
• Revenue expenditure- ₹7.72 trillion
• Total receipts- ₹5.99 trillion, or 22.1% of the annual estimates.
• Tax receipts - ₹4.3 trillion, or 18.6% of annual estimates.
• The Centre aims to bring down the fiscal deficit to 5.9% of the gross domestic product during
FY204.
Source: LM

9. Reserve Bank of India has approved the scheme of amalgamation of Navanirman Co-op
Urban Bank with Rajadhani Co-op Urban Bank.
• The Scheme has been sanctioned in exercise of the powers conferred under Sub-Section
(4) of Section 44A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
• The Scheme has come into force with effect from August 03, 2023.
Source: HBL

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10. Ministry of Finance has launched the scheme, “Vivad se Vishwa-2” to effectively settle the
pending contractual disputes of government and government undertakings.
• The scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2023-24.

What is the Vivad Se Vishwas-II Scheme?

• It is a voluntary settlement scheme to resolve long-standing contractual disputes
involving government agencies.
• It is designed specifically for disputes where the Arbitral Award is under challenge in a
court.
o Arbitral Award is an award that brings finality to the arbitral proceeding.
• Under the scheme, standardised terms will be introduced, and graded settlement options will
be provided based on the level of pendency of the dispute.
• Implementation:
o It will be implemented through an online functionality on the Government e-
Marketplace (GeM) portal.
• Settlement Amount:
o For cases involving Court awards, the settlement amount offered to the contractor will
be up to 85% of the net amount awarded or upheld by the court, while the same
threshold will be “up to” 65% of the net amount in case of arbitral awards.
Source: LM

11. Ambuja Cements Ltd (ACL), a flagship Adani Group company, has announced the
acquisition of Sanghi Industries Ltd (SIL) at an enterprise value of ₹5,000 crore.
• ACL will acquire 56.74% shares of SIL from its existing promoter group, Ravi Sanghi &
family.
• Adani is India's 2nd largest cement producer, behind UltraTech Cement. It owns Ambuja
and its subsidiary ACC Ltd, which have a capacity to produce more than 65 million tonnes
with more than a dozen manufacturing plants across India.
Source: LM

12. Kiwi, an India-based FinTech platform has partnered with Axis Bank to bolster ‘Credit on
UPI’ accessibility on RuPay credit cards.
• With this, the users can make payments from the Kiwi app using their credit cards at
merchant outlets that accept digital payments only via UPI.
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Source: ToI

13. Financial services company Societe Generale (based in Paris) bought shares of private lender
Bandhan Bank for Rs 382 crore through open market transactions.
Source: BS

14. SEBI has allowed Offer for Sale (OFS) for units of private-listed Infrastructure Investment
Trusts (InvlTs) through a stock exchange mechanism.
• The new framework comes into force with immediate effect.
• Now, the sponsors of the InvITs will be able to sell their shares in the market.
• InvITs allow investors to invest in infrastructure projects. Privately placed InvITs can invest
in under-construction assets as well as completed and revenue-generating assets and
public InvITs can invest majorly in completed and revenue-generating assets.
• The facility of OFS was already available in REITs, or real estate investment trusts.
Source: ET

15. SEBI and Association of Portfolio Managers in India (APMI) will jointly set standards for
performance audit of portfolio management services (PMS) companies.
• PMS players are required to conduct a performance audit annually and submit a report
within 60 days after the end of a financial year.
• This performance audit needs to consider all clients' portfolios managed by the PMS.
• However, performance of advisory clients can be excluded only if it is not published in any
marketing material or website.
• The standard specified by APMI will be effective from October 1, 2023.
Source: BS

16. IndusInd Bank and Tiger Fintech - a Bajaj Capital Group company, have launched the
IndusInd Bank Tiger Credit Card, a co-branded credit card powered by Visa.
• With this launch, customers will get access to best-in-class credit card to meet their lifestyle
needs.
Source: ET

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17. IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company has launched a non-linked and non-participating product
Guarantee of Life Dreams (G.O.L.D.) Plan, that offers policyholders regular long-term
income.
• The premium paying terms range between 6, 8, and 10 years for policy terms of 30 years
and 40 years.
• The starting premium is as low as ₹4,176 per month and offers the choice to pay annually
or in instalments.
• The plan offers three income options: immediate, intermediate and deferred.
Source: ET

18. Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Finance, has upgraded the status of the Oil
India Ltd (OIL) to Maharatna CPSE. It is now the 13th Maharatna CPSE.
• About OIL -
o The company posted a consolidated annual turnover of Rs 41,039 Crore and net
profit of Rs 9,854 Crore for the FY 2022-23.
o OIL earned the status of Navaratna in 2010. Having acquired a majority share of
Numaligarh Refinery Ltd. (NRL) in 2021, OIL has now become an integrated energy
company.
o C&MD, OIL - Dr. Ranjit Rath
• Oil and Natural Gas Company (ONGC) VIdesh has also been elevated to the status of
Navaratna Company.
o Its annual turnover is ₹11,676 crore and net profit of ₹1,700 crore for the Year 2022-
23.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Criteria for inclusion in Maharatna status -
o Having Navratna status
o Listed on Indian stock exchange with minimum prescribed public shareholding
under SEBI regulations
o An average annual turnover of more than Rs. 25,000 crores during the last 3
years
o An average annual net worth of more than Rs. 15,000 crores during the last 3
years
o An average annual net profit after tax of more than Rs. 5,000 crores during the
last 3 years
pg. 87
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o Should have significant global presence/international operations.

• Criteria for inclusion in Navratna status -

o The CPSEs which are Miniratna I, Schedule ‘A’ and have obtained ‘excellent’ or
‘very good’ MOU rating in three of the last five years and have a composite score
of 60 or above in following six selected performance indicators are eligible to
be considered for grant of Navratna status.

• Criteria for grant of Miniratna status to CPSEs -

o Miniratna Category-I status - profit in the last 3 years continuously; pre-tax profit
is Rs.30 crores or more in at least one of the three years; and have a positive net
worth
o Miniratna Category-II status - profit for the last three years continuously; positive
net worth;

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▪ These should not have defaulted in the repayment of loans/interest

payment on any loans due to the Government
▪ Miniratna CPSEs shall not depend upon budgetary support or Government
guarantees
• Who can confer this status?
o Department of Public Enterprises confers Maharatna and Navaratna Status.
o Respective Ministries of the CPSEs confer the status of Miniratna status.

• What is the benefit of the status?

o Upgradation upon each level provides greater degree of autonomy to the CPSEs
with regards to their investment and operational decisions.
o For ex. A Navratna status imparts enhanced financial and operational freedom to a
company and empowers it to invest up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of its net worth on a
single project without seeking government approval
Source: ET CPSE PIB LiveMint

19. Gautam Adani-owned Ambuja Cements Ltd. has acquired a majority stake in Sanghi
Industries at an enterprise value of ₹5,000 crore.
• Ambuja Cements, a part of Adani Cement Ltd (ACL), will buy a 56.74% stake in Sanghi
Industries Ltd. (SIL) from its existing promoter group Ravi Sanghi & family.
Source: The Hindu

20. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has signed a term contract with Bharat
Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for the sale of crude oil from the Mumbai region.
• This agreement marks the first-ever term contract under the Marketing Freedom
regime.
Source: ET

21. Mastercard introduced the Cardholder Verification Code (CVC)-less online transactions
for its debit and credit cardholders who have tokenized their cards on merchant platforms.
• Purpose - to reduce the checkout time and make virtual transactions hassle-free and more
secure
• CVC/CVV (Card Verification Value) is the three-digit number printed on the back of debit
and credit cards.
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• According to the RBI’s tokenization guidelines, merchants who adopt tokenized payments
will collect CVC only once, which is while tokenizing the card. From the second transaction
onwards, cardholders will be required to select their tokenized card from the checkout page,
confirm the one-time password (OTP) and complete the transaction without keying in CVC.
Source: Mastercard

22. NMDC Ltd has unveiled its new logo.

• The new logo is a manifestation of NMDC’s vision of NMDC 2.0.
• This logo communicates the responsibilities of NMDC towards mining in harmony with
nature and people, towards ensuring mineral security & building mineral accountability, and
towards infusing self-reliance in our sector.
o The blue cog in the logo represents the mineral mining cycle, symbolizing the
steadfastness and trust NMDC has earned over the decades.
o At the center of the logo, a hand cradling the earth signifies NMDC’s commitment
towards sustainable & responsible mining and also the global aspirations.
o The vibrant green color symbolizes growth, renewal, and harmony with nature.
• CMD, NMDC - Amitava Mukherjee

Knowledge Nuggets
• As per the data released in June 2023, India currently ranks as the World's 2nd Largest
Producer of Crude Steel, surpassing Japan in 2018.
• The National Steel Policy, 2017 aims to fulfil the following objectives -
o Increase per Capita Steel Consumption to 160 Kgs by 2030-31

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o Increase domestic availability of washed coking coal so as to reduce import

dependence on coking coal from ~85% to ~65% by 2030-31
o Increase crude steel capacity of 300 million tonnes (MT), production of 255 MT
and a robust finished steel per capita consumption of 158 Kgs by 2030-31
Source: PIB ET NSP

23. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has collaborated with the World
Bank to prepare a roadmap for hydrogen blending in natural gas and their transmission
through gas pipelines in the country.
• They will study demand and supply of hydrogen, technical assessment of the existing
pipeline network for its compatibility, commercial assessment of pipeline sector, identifying
bottlenecks in policy and regulatory framework, and framing of roadmap till 2040 for
expeditious implementation of hydrogen blending in India.
• India aims to achieve the national target of 5 million metric tonnes per annum of
hydrogen consumption by 2030.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is a statutory body under the
Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006.
• Chairperson - Anil Kumar Jain
Source: ET and PGNRB

24. Ministry of Finance has imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on certain optical fibre
imports from China, South Korea and Indonesia to give some relief to the domestic optical
fibre industry reeling under the adverse impact of low-price and low-quality imports.
• Based on the recommendations of the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR),
the revenue department has imposed an anti-dumping duty on dispersion unshifted
Single-Mode Optical Fiber (SMOF) imports from China, South Korea and Indonesia.
• The anti-dumping duty ranges from $122 per kfkm to $857.23 per kfkm, with the commodity
being traded in fkm (fibre kilometres).
• This definitive anti-dumping duty will be valid for 5 years.
Source: HBL

25. Reliance Jio has received a $2.2 billion fund support from the Swedish export credit
agency to finance equipment for the 5G rollout.
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• RJIL tied up its first-ever Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN) supported facilities of USD 2.2
billion equivalent making it the largest cover ever provided by EKN for a deal to a private
corporate globally.
Source: LM

26. Banks have written off bad loans worth ₹14.56 lakh crore in the last 9 financial years starting
2014-15, according to a reply in Parliament.
• Out of the total ₹14,56,226 crore, written off loans of large industries and services stood at
₹7,40,968 crore.
Knowledge Nuggets
What does loan write-offs mean?
• Loan write-offs - Writing off a loan essentially means it will no longer be counted as an
asset.
• Significance - By writing off loans, a bank can reduce the level of non-performing assets
(NPAs) on its books.
o The amount so written off reduces the bank’s tax liability.
• Reason - The bank writes off a loan after the borrower has defaulted on the loan repayment
and there is a very low chance of recovery.
o All loan write-offs are not lost money.
o Many write-off cases continue to be on birth register of banks/financial institutions.
It is resorted to even in cases where the bank has not exhausted all avenues for
recovery of dues.
o Such write-offs do not affect the right of the bank to proceed against the borrowers
to collect the dues. Any recovery made against the borrower is considered as a
profit for the bank in that financial year.
Source: ET

27. SEBI has announced the establishment of a Common online dispute resolution (ODR)
portal.
• Objective- To streamline the existing dispute resolution mechanism by establishing a less
time-consuming common ODR portal.
o Current grievance redressal mechanism- SEBI Complaint Redressal System
(SCORES) will be integrated with ODR mechanism to ensure that complainants
unsatisfied with SCORES resolution can approach ODR.
pg. 92
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• Market infrastructure institutions (MIIs)- stock exchanges and depositories will identify and
empanel ODR institutions and establish and operate a common ODR portal with empanelled
ODR institutions.
o All listed companies, specified intermediaries and regulated entities in
securities market will enrol on ODR portal.
Knowledge Nuggets
• ODR is the resolution of disputes, particularly small and medium-value cases, using
digital technology and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) techniques, such as arbitration,
conciliation and mediation.
• Significance of ODR: Reduction in court cases, Cost-effective and efficient resolution,
increased enforcement of contracts etc.
Source: IE

28. HDFC Bank’s Sashidhar Jagdishan has emerged as the highest-paid bank chief executive
in financial year 2022-23, grossing over Rs 10.55 crore in overall pay.

Source: BS

29. Star Health Insurance has entered into bancassurance tie-up with Standard Chartered
Bank (SCB)
• Under this tie-up, SCB will offer Star Health’s insurance products through their extensive
branch network across India. SCB currently has 100 branches spread across 42 cities.
• What is Bancassurance?
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o It is an insurance distribution model where insurance companies partner with

banks to sell policies. Both the bank and the insurance company get to benefit from
this arrangement.
o While the bank earns a commission from the insurance company, the insurer gains
from the bank’s distribution network.
Source: HBL

30. Founder and CEO of One 97 Communications Limited (Paytm), Vijay Shekhar Sharma will
acquire a 10.30% stake valued at $628 million in Paytm from Ant Financial (Netherlands.)
• He will purchase the stake through Resilient Asset Management BV, which is 100%
owned by him. This transaction will make him the largest shareholder in the company with a
total stake of 19.42%.
Source: ET

31. Bajaj Finance has partnered with ICICI Lombard General Insurance to offer motor insurance
policies (car and two-wheeler) on the platform Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall.
Source: ANI

32. Bandhan Bank Limited has partnered with the Government of Odisha, to support the
payment solutions for the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) Ltd.
• The bank has provided Point of Sale (PoS) machines to facilitate card payments by tourists.
• Prime locations including Puri, Bhubaneshwar, Konark, Chilka and Gopalpur will be covered
under this tie up.
Source: ET

33. PayU and Common Service Centre (CSC) Academy has collaborated to provide financial
and digital education to underprivileged people.
• Beneficiaries- People between the ages of 15 and 60 and belonging to underprivileged
segments of society including SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), BPL (Below
Poverty Line), and Women.
• Duration- July 1 2023 to June 30, 2024
• Provision- Under this, Mobile vans will be stationed in and around three districts in
Delhi/Gurugram (Haryana), Mumbai (Maharashtra), and Bengaluru (Karnataka) to provide
financial and digital literacy instructions as well as other civic services.
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o Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) from CSC will play a pivotal role in
administering this campaign, aiming to train approximately 50,000 individuals per
year through each van.
• PayU India is a leading online payment service provider in India, and CSC Academy is a
SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) of the Ministry of Electronics & Information
Technology (MeitY).
Source: ET

34. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has reduced the timeline for listing
securities after the closing of an Initial Public Offering (IPO) to 3 days (T+3) from the present
requirement of 6 working days (T+6).
• This will be an option for IPOs opening on or after September 1, 2023, and will be
mandatory for public issues opening after December 1, 2023.
• According to SEBI, the reduction in timelines for listing and trading of shares will benefit
both issuers and investors.
• Under the new guidelines, companies will have to finalise allotment before 6 pm on T+1 day.
The transfer of funds will be made to unsuccessful applicants on T+2 day.
• Benefits:
o Swift access to raised capital allows issuers to promptly deploy funds for business
expansion and other operational enhancements.
o Early access to credit ensures investors have more flexibility in allocating funds for
other investment.
Source: LM

35. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce &
Industry has collaborated with Ministry of Rural Development for the One District One
Product (ODOP) program.
• This strategic collaboration was unveiled with the inauguration of the ODOP Wall at
SARAS Aajeevika Store in New Delhi.
• SARAS Aajeevika is an initiative by Deendayal Antyodaya (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural
Development.
About OPOP Wall -
• Objective: To boost sales and to increase visibility of SARAS products of rural SHGs
women
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• Under this collaboration, products are being identified from all districts to be promoted for
their unique qualities and cultural significance.
About SARAS Aajeevika
• Objective: To create special marketplace for well-crafted products of
women artisans and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
• Launched by: It is an initiative under DAY-NRLM, Ministry of Rural
Development.
• It also seeks to boost the skills and talents of these women and help them
become independent entrepreneurs.
About ODOP initiative
• Objective: To make India and its people self-reliant by fostering balanced
regional development across all districts of the country.
• Launched by: DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• It selects brands and promotes one unique product from each district,
showcasing the diverse range of products across the country.
o It encompasses various sectors, including handlooms and
handicrafts.
Source: PIB

36. Reliance Jio has completed the work related to connecting Maldives with a High-Speed
Optic Fibre cable to land the Ocean Connect Maldives-India Asia Express (OCM-IAX)
Submarine Cable System.
• The agreement for the Ocean Connectivity Maldives project (worth $22.5 million) was
signed in February 2022.
• The IAX cable system originates in Mumbai and connects Singapore, with branches and
landings in India, Malaysia, and Thailand.
• The cable system is expected to be ready for service by end of this year.
Source: NoA

37. Parliament approved the Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023 to
implement the 28% GST on the full value of deposits made by players to online gaming
platforms, horse racing clubs and to casinos from 1 October 2023.
• Parliament has also approved Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment)
Amendment Bill, 2023, which will be brought into effect from October
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Source: LiveMint

38. Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank of India) has launched its subsidiary- India Exim
Finserve IFSC Private Limited (Exim Finserve) at the Gujarat International Financial Tec
(GIFT) City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• The subsidiary is set to provide a suite of trade finance solutions to Indian exporters, with a
primary emphasis on export factoring.
o Export factoring- The process where a lender or a factor buys a company's
receivables at a discount.
• Exim Finserve is the first finance company in GIFT City for export factoring.
Knowledge Nuggets
• GIFT city (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) is envisaged as an integrated hub for
financial and technology services not just for India but for the world.
• It consists of a multi-service Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which houses India’s first
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and an exclusive Domestic Tariff Area
(DTA).
Source: ET

39. Axis Bank Limited has announced to raise its stake in Max Life Insurance Company Limited
to 16.22% from 9.99% by infusing Rs 1,612 crore through a preferential allotment of shares.
• The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, including Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India, Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority,
Competition Commission of India, and any other requisite approval.
• Axis Bank has received the requisite approval from the Reserve Bank of India for the
proposed acquisition.
Source: BS

40. Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd (Kotak Life) has announced its corporate
agency tie-up with ESAF Small Finance Bank (ESAF Bank) to offer life insurance to ESAF
Bank customers.
• The tie-up will benefit 68 lakh customers of ESAF Bank through life insurance products
provided by Kotak Life.
Source: BW

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41. Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has constituted a sectoral committee to frame the unique
regulatory landscape for 26 member banks operating within the Gujarat International Finance
Tec-City (GIFT City).
• The committee is intended to function as a bridge connecting the banking sector and
regulatory bodies.
Why the committee?
• Due to the differential regulatory guidelines between banks operating within GIFT City and
those outside.
• The committee will represent the collective interests of the banks operating within GIFT City.
Knowledge Nuggets
IBA
• It is a representative body of management of banking in India operating in India – an
association of Indian banks and financial institutions based in Mumbai.
• It was formed in 1946.
Source: ToI

42. Protean eGov Technologies (Protean) has partnered with PayNearby, a fintech platform
owned by Nearby Technologies Private Limited to provide credit services on the ONDC (Open
Network for Digital Commerce) network for last-mile borrowers and Micro, Small & Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs).
• Under this partnership, Protean will be an ONDC technology service provider through
PayNearby’s Distribution as a Service (DaaS) network through over 12 lakhs active
PayNearby outlets.
• Protean will also aggregate Loan Service Providers (LSPs) onto a single platform.
• Previously, PayNearby & Protean have partnered for paperless PAN (Permanent Account
Number) Card services at nearby stores across India.
Source: BS

43. Reserve Bank of India has awarded contract to global consultancy firms McKinsey and
Company India LLP and Accenture Solutions Pvt Ltd India to develop systems using artificial
intelligence and machine learning for its supervisory functions.
Source: BT

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44. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the development of a Public Tech Platform for
Frictionless Credit.
• The issue: Currently, data needed for credit appraisal is available with different entities like
Central and State governments, account aggregators, banks, digital identity authorities, etc.
This creates hindrance in frictionless and timely delivery of rule-based lending.
• The Solution: This end-to-end digital platform with an open architecture, open Application
Programming Interfaces (APIs) and standards, will connect all financial sector players
seamlessly in a ‘plug and play’ model.
• The Platform is being developed by Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH), a wholly owned
subsidiary of the RBI.
Source: TH

45. Fiscal Health of States: A Report has been released.

• States included- 17
• The report is written by Kaushik Das, the chief economist at Deutsche Bank India.
• Based on the first budget estimates of the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24)-
o Maharashtra has secured the top position as the best state in overall fiscal health.
o Chhattisgarh has secured the 2nd position in the report. It is one of the poorest
states in the country.
o Following it, Telangana has stood third, while the last three positions are occupied
by Bengal, Punjab, and Kerala.
• Based on the FY23 revised budget estimates, Maharashtra tops the ranking, followed by
Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Telangana and Jharkhand.
• Based on the revised FY22 actual budget data, Chhattisgarh tops the list followed by
Maharashtra and Orissa.
• The fiscal health report is based on four major fiscal criteria- fiscal deficit, own tax
revenue, state debt levels, and the interest payment to revenue receipts, all as a % of their
individual gross state domestic product.
Source: HT

46. Chakr Innovation, a pioneering startup specializing in pollution reduction solutions, has
secured a funding of INR 18 crores from the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank).
• The funds were sanctioned under EXIM Bank's Ubharte Sitare Programme (USP), which
identifies Indian companies that are future champions with good export potential. An
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identified company should have potential advantages by way of technology, product or

process.
Source: ANI

47. Punjab National Bank (PNB) has partnered with Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing
Federation Ltd (GCMMFL), better known as Amul, to offer financial services to federation's
supply network pan-India under the MUDRA scheme.
• Under MUDRA, the bank will finance Amul's retailers, wholesale dealers/area milk
distributors and exclusive Amul preferred outlets-milk parlours.
• Other services will include integrating various digital channels like QR codes, POS (point of
sale), UPI (Unified Payment Interface), etc., supply chain finance and EMI collection
digitally, and providing working capital limits, among others.

Source: BS

48. Apple has announced to commence the production of its AirPods wireless earbuds at
Foxconn's facility in Hyderabad.
• The plant will come up with an approved investment of $400 million by Foxconn and is
projected to initiate large-scale manufacturing by December 2024.
Source: LM

49. Indian IT services company Infosys has won a $1.6 billion deal from Liberty Global to build
and scale the entertainment and connectivity platforms of the digital communications firm.
• Liberty Global plc is a British-Dutch-American multinational telecommunications company.

pg. 100
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Source: BT

50. IndiGo co-founder Rakesh Gangwal and his family will sell around 4% stake in InterGlobe
Aviation Ltd for up to $450 million (₹3,370 crore) through a block deal.
• A block deal is where shares valued at more than Rs 5 crore or minimum 500,000 shares
of a listed company are sold in one tranche.
• Gangwal family currently holds 29.72% stake in IndiGo Airlines
Source: LM

51. Goa government has launched its flagship scheme “Gramin Mitra” to provide doorstep
delivery of government schemes across the state and promote digital empowerment in rural
areas.
Source: ToI

52. United States-based investment firm GQG Partners bought over 8%, or 31 crore shares, of
Adani Power from the promoters for over $1billion through two block deals on the stock
exchanges.
• Promoter Adani family, which held 74.97 per cent in the firm, sold 31.2 crore or an 8.1 per
cent stake at an average price of Rs 279.17 per share.
Source: IE

53. Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) in coordination with the
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has integrated the National Pension System
(NPS) Statement of Transaction (SoT) with the Consolidated Account Statement (CAS).
• Now, PFRDA has enabled Central Record Keeping Agencies (CRAs) to integrate with
depositories, registered with SEBI to provide NPS Subscribers with the option to include
NPS transactions in CAS.
o The facility to include NPS SoT in CAS will be available to NPS subscribers on
consent basis.
o At present, the NPS SoT is shared annually, either in physical form or via email, and
is also accessible for online viewing through CRA login.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CAS:

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• The CAS provided by National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) and Central
Depository Services Ltd (CDSL) offers a consolidated view of the personal investments in
the securities market with updated mark-to-market values.
• It encompasses holdings of Demat accounts and mutual fund holdings of the investors.
Note: CAS is issued to investors in accordance with Regulation 36(4) of SEBI (Mutual
Funds) Regulations, 1996.
Source: ET

54. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit to
transform credit accessibility and lending efficiency.
About the Platform
• It is developed by the RBI’s subsidiary Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH).
• The platform is set to launch as a pilot project with gradual access to information providers
and use cases.
• The pilot phase will focus on credit products like Kisan Credit Card loans, dairy loans,
collateral-free MSME loans, personal loans, and home loans.
• The platform will integrate services such as Aadhaar e-KYC, state government land
records, satellite data, PAN validation, Aadhaar e-signing, account aggregation, and more.
• Axis Bank Limited has launched two new financial products, Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and
unsecured Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) loans powered by Public Tech
Platform for Frictionless Credit.
• Purpose-
o To streamline the credit delivery process by enabling seamless digital information
flow to lenders.
o To simplify the credit assessment by providing an end-to-end digital ecosystem that
facilitates the smooth exchange of essential digital data among stakeholders.
Features of the Platform
• Open Architecture: The platform adopts an open architecture model, fostering
interoperability and collaboration among various financial sector players.
• Plug and Play Model: The open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and standards
enable seamless integration and interaction among participating entities.
• Efficiency and Scalability: The platform aims to enhance lending efficiency, reduce costs,
expedite disbursement, and scale up lending operations.
Knowledge Nuggets
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What is frictionless credit?

• It is a borrowing approach that seeks to streamline the lending process for consumers.
• Unlike the traditional credit systems, where individuals need to go through extensive
paperwork, credit checks and lengthy approval procedures, frictionless credit promises a
smoother and faster experience.
Source: BS

55. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently launched a Centralised Web Portal, UDGAM
(Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access inforMation), for the public to search for their
unclaimed deposits across multiple banks at one place.
About the Portal
• It has been developed by RBI for use by members of public to facilitate and make it easier
for them to search their unclaimed deposits across multiple banks at one place.
• Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd (ReBIT), Indian Financial Technology
& Allied Services (IFTAS), and participating banks have collaborated on developing the
portal.
• The portal will enable users to either claim the deposit amount or make their deposit
accounts operative at their respective banks.
Knowledge Nuggets
What are Unclaimed Deposits?
• According to RBI, "Unclaimed Deposits" refers to funds held in savings or current
accounts that have remained inactive for a duration of 10 years, or in the case
of fixed deposits (FDs), have not been withdrawn within 10 years from the maturity date.
Source: ToI

56. IndusInd Bank Limited has launched first-of-its-kind Visa multi-branded credit card
“IndusInd Bank Avios Visa Infinite Credit Card” in partnership with British Airways
Executive Club and Qatar Airways Privilege Club.
Source: ZB

57. Crisil, a global analytics company, has estimated that the Indian economy will experience a
growth rate of 6% during FY24, a decline from the 7.2% growth achieved in FY23.
Highlights of the report

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• The global economic slowdown is expected as a result of rising interest rates and the
exports may continue to be a drag on industrial output.
• Monsoon will have a significant impact on industrial prospects through effects on inflation
and rural demand.
Source: CRISIL

58. Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has made it mandatory for financial
advisors or “finfluencers” to register with the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(Sebi) and disclose their credentials in its revised advertising guidelines.
• This applies to all finfluencers working in the banking, financial services, and insurance
(BFSI) sector offering investment advice.
Who are finfluencers?
• Finfluencers are people with public social media platforms offering advice and sharing
personal experiences about money and investment in stocks. Their videos cover budgeting,
investing, property buying, cryptocurrency advice and financial trend tracking.
Knowledge Nuggets
Advertising Standards Council of India
• ASCI is a voluntary self-regulatory organization, registered as a not-for-profit
company under section 25 of the Indian Cos. Act.
• The sponsors of ASCI, who are its principal members, are firms of considerable repute
within Industry in India, and comprise Advertisers, Media, Advertising Agencies and other
professional /ancillary services connected with advertising practice.
• ASCI is represented in all committees working on advertising content in every Ministry of
the Government of India.
• The aim of ASCI is to maintain and enhance the public's confidence in advertising.
• Their mandate is that all advertising material must be truthful, legal and honest.
Source: IE

59. Investment Attractiveness of Indian States study has been released.

• 5 states account for more than half of the total bank-assisted investment proposals made
during the year 2022-23.
• This signifies skewed pattern of industrialization in the country.
Highlights of the Study

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• Overall investment plans: It shot up by 79.50% with a record capital outlay of Rs 352,624
crore - the highest since 2014-15.
o The rise in new investments has happened at a time when the RBI has hiked the
repo rate (the rate at which the RBI lends to banks) by 250 basis points to 6.50%
since April 2022.
• Total cost of the projects financed by banks and financial institutions:
o As many as 547 projects got assistance from banks and financial institutions during
2022-23 with a record high total project cost of Rs 2,66,547 crore as compared to
401 projects with a total project cost of Rs 1,41,976 crore during 2021-22.
• Showing a surge of 87.7%, the envisaged total cost of the projects financed by banks and
financial institutions reached a new peak during 2022-23 since 2014-15.
• The state-wise distribution of new investments:
o Top five states: UP (16.2% or Rs 43,180 crore), Gujarat, Odisha, Maharashtra and
Karnataka together accounted for 57.2% share (or Rs 2,01,700 crore) in total project
cost during 2022-23.
o In bank-assisted projects, Kerala, Goa and Assam are at the bottom in getting the
lowest number of new investments.
• Purpose-wise Pattern of Projects:
o Investment in green field (new) projects: It accounted for the largest share of 93.1%
in the total cost of projects financed by banks and FIs during 2022-23.
o The infrastructure sector accounts for 60% share in the total cost of projects during
2022-23.
What is the reason behind Pick-up in Investments and Future Outlook?
• The pick-up in investments is largely due to the capital expenditure plans of the
government, raising business optimism and revival in private capex in certain key
sectors.
• The near-term outlook for private investment activity in India is gauged from project
investment proposals of the private corporate sector.
Source: IE

60. Ministry of Finance has imposed a 40% export duty on onions to check the rise in their prices.
Why are the onion prices rising?
• The present price rise has two aspects to it-
o First is the shortage in stored produce
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o Second is the lower-than-expected acreage of the onion.

• India is largest exporter of Onions in the world (12% of global onion trade)
Previously,
• Ban on export of Wheat in May 2022
o India is the world's second-biggest wheat producer after China.
o Accounts for less than 1% of the global wheat trade.
o Its top export markets are Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
• Ban on export of Non- Basmati Rice in July 2023
o India is the second-largest producer of rice in the world, after China.
o India has become the largest rice exporter globally, accounting for nearly 40% of
global rice exports in 2022.
o Non-basmati white rice constitutes approximately 25% of the total rice exported from
the country.
What has export to do with the present price rise?
• The domestic price rise comes at a time when demand for Indian onion in the international
market has been quite high.
o The majority of the demand is from Bangladesh and West Asia.
• With a 40% export duty, the price parity of the trade will be destroyed.
o Many traders had already signed contracts for exports at a lower price and this duty
would have to be incurred by them.
o Around 4,500 tonnes of onion are in transit for which the exporters would have to
suffer the losses.
• Increased export duty, the government feels would stem the onion from leaving the country
and would allow more availability in the local market.
• This will ensure smoother supply and lower prices.
Source: IE

61. Canara Bank has launched its Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Interoperable Digital Rupee
mobile application, called the “Canara Digital Rupee app”, as a part of the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI)’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilot project.
• Canara Bank is the first among the public and commercial sector bank to provide this
feature in its CBDC mobile app.
• The app has been created in accordance with RBI guidelines and is powered by advanced
blockchain technology.

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Benefits-
• Customers will be able to scan merchant UPI Quick Response (QR) codes using the
Canara Digital Rupee app and make digital currency payments.
• It enables merchants to accept digital currency payments in addition to UPI-based
payments, utilising their existing UPI QR codes without the need for a separate onboarding
process for CBDC.
Source: ET

62. Yes Bank Limited (Ltd) has launched ‘iris by YES BANK’, a state-of-the-art mobile banking
application which was developed in collaboration with customer feedback.
• It is the bank’s first Direct to Consumer platform, allowing new and existing customers to
access more than 100 features and services.
Source: ET

63. Indian Bank has become the First Public Sector Bank (PSB) to extend facility of execution of
on-line locker agreement through Digital Document Execution (DDE) Platform of National E-
Governance Services Limited (NeSL).
Knowledge Nuggets
Digital Document Execution (DDE)
• DDE is a fully automated contract execution platform with paperless e-stamp and
electronic signature (e-Sign) facility.
Source: ToI

64. State Bank of India (SBI) Life Insurance has become the first private life insurance company
in India to provide 24X7 inbound contact centre via toll-free number.
• The contact centre is available to both existing and new consumers, throughout the year.
• This is aligned with the goal of ‘Insurance for all by 2047’ set by Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
• The initiative aims to address both pre- and post-purchase inquiries, offering real-time
solutions for policy and insurance-related queries.
Knowledge Nuggets
Insurance for all by 2047-IRDAI:

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• IRDAI has committed to enable ‘Insurance for all by 2047’ with an aim to provide every
citizen with life, health and property insurance cover and every enterprise with appropriate
insurance solutions.
• The three pillars of the entire insurance ecosystem are insurance customers
(policyholders), insurance providers (insurers) and insurance distributors (intermediaries)
Source: ANI

65. International Finance Corporation (IFC, a member of World Bank group) is planning to
invest up to USD 100 million in IIFL Home Finance Ltd (IIFL HFL) to increase access to
housing finance.
• Beneficiaries: Economically weaker sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG),
including women borrowers in India.
• Under the partnership, 50% of funding will be dedicated to promoting housing finance for
women borrowers, with the remaining 50% dedicated to financing green housing for
buyers in this underserved segment.
• IIFL HFL, a subsidiary of IIFL Finance Limited is a housing finance company in India. It is
registered under National Housing Bank (NHB) in India.
Source: LM

66. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), an Indian multinational public sector life insurance
company, has acquired 6.66% shareholding in Jio Financial Services Ltd. (JFSL).
• LIC holds a 6.49% stake in RIL as of June 30, 2023.
• Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL), previously named Reliance Strategic Investments
Limited, is the demerged financial subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL).
Source: ET

67. HDFC Bank has launched India’s First Co-Branded Hotel Credit Card named ‘Marriott
Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card’ in partnership with Marriott International.
• The card aims to enhance the travel experiences of cardholders by offering exclusive
benefits, rewards, and seamless access to Marriott International’s loyalty program Marriott
Bonvoy.
Source: LM

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68. International Cricket Council (ICC), a global governing body for cricket has signed a global
partnership with Mastercard, a global payment processing corporation, for the ICC Men’s
Cricket World Cup 2023.
• The tie-up aims to connect cardholders and cricket enthusiasts to priceless experiences
throughout the tournament.
• ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, is scheduled to be held in India from 5th October 2023
to 19th November 2023.
o The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat will be the venue for the first
match and the last match of the tournament.
Source: ICC

69. Muthoot Fincorp Limited (MFL) has launched “Muthoot FinCorp ONE”, an innovative all-in-
one digital financial platform.
• MFL is a leading Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) based in Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala.
• This new platform aims to roll out diverse financial services such as insurance, personal
loans, two-wheeler loans, and housing loans within the span of six months.
• Muthoot Fincorp is a flagship company of Muthoot Pappachan Group (also known as
Muthoot Blue).
• Chief Executive Officer of MFL- Shaji Varghese.
Source: BW

70. Foreign fund house Quinag Acquisition sold its entire stake in Manappuram Finance for Rs
1,177 crore through an open market transaction.
• Quinag Acquisition sold 8,37,85,880 shares amounting to a 9.90% stake in Manappuram
Finance.
• Quinag Acquisition was the biggest foreign institutional investor in the stock as of June
30, 2023.
Source: BT

71. DBS Bank Ltd in collaboration with Maptrasco, has completed the first “live” transaction of
electronic Bills of Lading (eBL) for shipments between Singapore and India.
• The project supports the United Nations Model Law for Electronic Transferable Records
and aims to drive cross-border document and title exchanges.
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• The successful live transaction between Singapore and India is the first step towards
establishing a fully digital trade corridor between the two countries.
• DBS Bank Ltd was formerly known as Development Bank of Singapore Limited and
Maptrasco is a Singapore-based commodities trader.
Knowledge Nuggets
Bills of lading:
• These are essential documents in shipping and logistics and serve as legal proof of
ownership for goods during transit, as well as receipt of goods.
Source: ET

72. Yes Bank Ltd has launched a co-branded Corporate Credit Card named ‘YES BANK Zaggle
Corporate Credit Card’ in partnership with Zaggle, a spend management platform.
• Aim: To empower businesses to redefine their corporate payments, expenditure
management, and cash flow optimisation.
• The card provides a solution by granting businesses direct authority over company
expenses. This includes setting individual spending limits, applying merchant category
restrictions, and implementing diverse controls.
Source: ToI

73. Life Insurance Corporation of India has tied up with a Mumbai based Saraswat Cooperative
Bank Ltd. to increase the distribution of life insurance products through the Bancassurance
channel.
• Benefit- Citizens and Customers of Saraswat Bank can now purchase LIC insurance
products directly through Saraswat Bank.
What is Bancassurance?
• It refers to the partnership or relationship between a Bank and an insurance company
whereby the insurance company leverages the Bank’s sales channel in order to sell
insurance products.
Source: TH

74. Asian Development Bank has partnered with Fourth Partner Energy to build solar power
unit in Tamil Nadu.
• The two have signed a long-term loan of up to $14.7 million to construct and operate a 25-
megawatt solar photovoltaic-based power plant located in Tirunelveli district in the state of
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Tamil Nadu to increase clean and low-cost energy supply to commercial and industrial
customers.
Source: ADB

75. Axis Bank Limited has launched ‘Infinity Savings Account’, a first-of-its-kind fully Digital
fixed fee- based savings account.
• This innovative savings account offers Axis Bank’s customers exclusive privileges, such as
waived Average Monthly Balance (AMB) requirement, complimentary debit cards, and
waiver of all the domestic charges against a small monthly recurring fee of ₹150 or annual
fee of Rs1650.
Source: LM

INDICES AND REPORTS

1. 9th WHO ‘REPORT ON THE GLOBAL TOBACCO EPIDEMIC, 2023’ -
• Report tracks the progress made by countries in tobacco control since 2008 and, marks 15
years since MPOWER measures are introduced.
• It focuses on controlling second-hand smoking (SHS or passive smoking).

Key highlights
• Global Tobacco Control Progress
o Number of countries implementing at least one MPOWER measure has
increased to 151 in 2022 from 44 in 2008.
o Over the last 15 years, the number of countries covered by comprehensive
smoke-free environments has increased from 10 in 2007 to 74 in 2022.
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o 4 countries (Brazil, Turkey, Netherlands, and Mauritius) have implemented all

measures.
• Second-hand smoking- Tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, of
which 1.3 million non-smokers are those exposed to SHS.
• Challenge ahead
o 44 countries still do not implement any MPOWER measure.
o 53 countries do not have a complete ban on smoking in healthcare facilities.
o 2 billion people are still unprotected by any regulatory restrictions on electronic
nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).
India specific
• India has the highest level of achievement with regards to putting health warning labels
on tobacco products and providing tobacco dependence treatment as per the report.
Knowledge Nuggets
Initiatives taken by India
• Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 to combat menace of e-cigarettes.
• National Health Policy 2017 targets to reduce tobacco use by 30% by 2025.
• Warnings covering 85% area on packs of tobacco product.
• Cigarette packets carry a toll-free number for a quit line.
• India is party to WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Source: Official report

2. According to S&P Global, the Services Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) has reached
an impressive 13-year high of 62.3 in July after a 3-month low in June.

• PMI is a survey-based measure that provides information about current and future
business conditions to company decision-makers, analysts, and investors.
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• It is calculated separately for the manufacturing and services sectors and then a composite
index is also constructed. The PMI is a number from 0 to 100.
• A PMI above 50 indicates expansion, while a PMI below 50 indicates contraction.
• Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the UAE emerged as key sources of growth for India's
services sector.
Source: LM

3. World Bank Report titled Digital-in-Health: Unlocking the Value for Everyone, has been
launched recently.
Key highlights of Report
• Digital technology strengthens health systems, improves health financing, makes public
health more effective, and serves underserved. Yet, some countries use less than 5% of
health data.
• Over past decade, World Bank has invested almost $4 billion in digital health.
• In India, World Bank support enabled over 40% of Anganwadi workers to use digital
technology.
• Emerging initiatives like Poshan Didi (a chatbot-based nutrition counselling service) has
been developed in India for behavioural nudging.
Key recommendations
• It calls for a shift from simple digitization of health data to fully integrating digital technology
in health systems.
• There is urgent need-
o To prioritize digital health interventions to solve health challenges and for reaching
the underserved.
o For Global and regional collaboration, leadership and partnership within and across
sectors, etc. to deliver better and seamless health services.
o To enhance digital skills and literacy, Public-private partnerships for funding, etc. to
ensure equitable access.
Source: WB

4. State of Elementary Education in Rural India - 2023 report

• The report is based on a survey conducted by the Development Intelligence Unit (DIU), a
collaboration between NGO Transform Rural India and Sambodhi Research and
Communications.
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• The survey gathered responses from 6,229 parents of schoolchildren aged 6–16 in rural
communities across 21 States.
Key Findings of the Survey
• Smartphone Usage and Entertainment:
Access to smartphones 49.3%

Playing video games 76.7%

Download and watch movies 56.6%

Download and listen to music 47.3%

Study-related downloads 34%

Online learning via tutorials. 18%

• Differential Access Based on Class:

o Students in higher classes (Class VIII and above) have greater access to
smartphones (58.32%).
o Younger students (Classes I–III) show considerable access (42.1%).
• School Dropout:
Reason Girls Boys
Contribute to family earnings 36.8% 48.7%
Lack of interest in studies 31.6% 71.8%

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• Parent’s Participation
o Only 40% of parents have conversations with their children around learning in school
every day.
▪ 32% have such conversations with their children a few days a week.
o 84% of parents regularly attend parent-teacher meetings at school.
What are the Recommendations?
• The findings emphasize the need for targeted efforts to enhance the educational
environment at home and promote a balanced use of smartphones for both entertainment
and learning purposes.
Source: TH

5. WTO’s World Trade Statistical Review (WTSR) 2023 has been released.

Key Highlights
• China, the United States of America (USA), and Germany are the top 3 exporters in
world merchandise trade 2022.
• USA, China and Germany are the top 3 importers in World Merchandise Trade 2022.

India Specific
• India is ranked 18th among the leading exporters in world merchandise trade (2022).
• India is ranked 9th among the merchandise importers.
• India is ranked globally 7th among exporters and 9th among importers in world in
commercial services 2022.
• Commercial services exports of India registered a very strong 206% increase.

Highlights of the report:

• Trade in goods and services:
o Trade in goods and services amounted to US$ 31.0 trillion in 2022, a 13% rise
year-on-year.

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• Leading merchandise trader:

• Manufactured goods:
o The share of manufactured goods in world merchandise exports fell to 63% in 2022
(68% in 2018) mainly due to high energy prices limiting demand.

• Transport services:

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o Trade in transport services continued to grow in 2022 at a slower pace than in 2021
as shipping rates returned to pre-pandemic levels.
• Intra-regional merchandise trade:
o Intra-regional merchandise trade represented 65% of Europe’s world trade in 2022,
the highest amongst the major world regions.
o The lowest was for Africa (14% in 2022, down from 16% in 2018)
Knowledge Nuggets
World Trade Statistical Review (WTSR) 2023
• It provides a detailed analysis of the latest developments in world trade.
• It is the WTO’s flagship statistical publication and is released on an annual basis.
• It provides data on merchandise and services trade, categorized by geographical origin,
product groups, and sectors.
Note: WTSR replaces International Trade Statistics, the WTO’s former annual statistical
publication.
Source: Official report

GDP FORECASTS
1. S&P Global Ratings has forecasted India to grow at 6.7% between FY24 and FY31 and
double the size of the economy to $6.7 trillion within the next eight years.
• It forecasted India’s per capita GDP to increase to $4,500 by FY31.
• Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh will be India’s top growing states over
the coming decade, with Maharashtra inching closer to a $1 trillion economy part by 2030.
o Maharashtra GDP is expected to reach $824.51bn and Tamil Nadu is forecast to
reach $650.34bn by 2030.
Source: ET

DEFENCE NEWS
1. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has handed over the 1st Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker of
Akash – Next Generation Weapon System to the Defence Research and Development
Organization (DRDO).
What is seeker?

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• It is a critical and technology intensive subsystem used in Surface-to-Air Missiles and Air-to-
Air Missiles for target tracking in the terminal phase.
Knowledge Nuggets
Akash Missiles
• It is a medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile system.
• Developed- Defence Research and Development Organisation
• Produced- Bharat Dynamics Limited.
Source: NoA

2. Indian Air Force (IAF) has received the Israeli Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) anti-tank
guided missiles which can hit targets from distances up to 30 km.
• The NLOS missiles will be integrated with the Russian-origin fleet of Mi-17V5 helicopters
which will be able to take-out targets from long ranges and can prove to be very effective
against enemy targets and assets hidden behind mountains or hills.
Source: TOI

3. India's defence ministry has adopted 'Maya' OS for enhanced cybersecurity.

• India's Defence Ministry has decided to replace the Microsoft Operating System
(OS) on internet-connected computers with a new OS called Maya, developed locally
based on open-source Ubuntu.
• The transition to Maya is aimed at bolstering security without disrupting user
experience, as it offers an interface and functionality similar to Windows.
• This move comes in response to the escalating incidents of cyberattacks.
• Alongside Maya's implementation, a comprehensive 'end point detection and protection
system,' Chakravyuh, is also being introduced to fortify these systems.Source: NIE
Source: NIE

4. INS Chennai has participated in Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Royal Saudi Naval Ship
HMS Al Jubail.
• The exercise was conducted off the coast (Red Sea) of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Purpose- To reinforce mutual trust, cement operational understanding, and enhance
interoperability between the Indian and Saudi navies.
About INS Chennai

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• It is a P-15A Guided Missile Destroyer, commissioned into the Indian Navy in November
2016. It was constructed by Mazagon Dock Limited, Mumbai.
Source: FE

5. Two ships of the Indian Navy - INS Visakhapatnam and INS Trikand have visited Port
Rashid, Dubai, UAE to conduct bilateral exercise ‘Zayed Talwar’.
• Purpose- To boost the maritime partnership between the two navies and foster a common
understanding of the security challenges in the region.
• Other bilateral exercises between the two countries-
o In-UAE BILAT (bilateral naval exercise)
o Desert Eagle-II (bilateral air force exercise)
o Exercise Desert Flag-VI.
• In the year 2022-23, UAE was India’s 3rd largest trading partner and 2nd largest export
destination.

6. The navies of India and the United Arab Emirates carried out a military exercise as part of
efforts to boost maritime security cooperation.
• INS Visakhapatnam and INS Trikand participated in the exercise.
• The ships arrived at Port Rashid in Dubai.
Source: ET

7. Indian Army has secured a patent for an ‘Accident Prevention System based on Artificial
Intelligence (AI)’
• It is developed within the Army’s research and development (R&D) division.
• Benefit: The system will save lives by alerting drivers from falling asleep & reducing
accidents caused by drowsiness.
What is a Patent?
• A patent is an exclusive right granted by the Government to the inventor to exclude others
to use, make and sell an invention for a specific period of time.
o The term of every patent in India is 20 years from the date of filing the patent
application.
o Patents Act, 1970 is the principal law for patenting system in India.
Source: LM

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8. Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics,
has delivered its 200th Empennage Super Hercules under Make in India initiative.
• TLMAL is the sole worldwide provider of C-130J empennage assemblies, which are
integrated into all new Super Hercules aircraft.
About Empennage:
• Also known as tail assembly, it is a structure at the rear of an aircraft that provides stability
during flight.
• The empennages made by TLMAL are included in C-130Js operated by seven countries,
including India.

Source: ET

9. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., under the Ministry of Defence
(MoD) has launched “Neerakshi” (Eyes in the Water).
• This is India’s first of its kind indigenous Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV).
• It is developed through a collaboration between Kolkata-based warship maker GRSE Ltd
and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) entity Aerospace Engineering Private Ltd
(AEPL).
• Purpose of AUV-
o For mine detection, mine disposal and underwater survey.
o For passive acoustic monitoring during which they could remain in position for
prolonged durations, monitoring the possible movement of sub-surface platforms.

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10. Malabar 2023 (23rd edition) is being conducted from August 11 to 22 off the coast of Sydney,
Australia.
• The exercise is being hosted by Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and will see participation
from the US Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Royal
Australian Navy (RAN).
• Indian Navy's indigenous frontline warships INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata will participate
in Exercise MALABAR 2023.
• INS Sahyadri is the third ship of the indigenously designed and built Project-17 class multi-
role stealth frigates. INS Kolkata is the first ship of the indigenously designed and built
Project-15A class destroyers.
Knowledge Nuggets
About
• The exercise was started in 1992 as a bilateral naval exercise between India and US
navy.
• The first Malabar Exercise in the Bay of Bengal took place in 2007.
• It takes place annually in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Oceans alternatively.
Expansion
• It was expanded into a trilateral format with the inclusion of Japan in 2015.
• In 2020, the Australian Navy joined the Malabar Exercise, making it a quadrilateral
naval exercise.
Aim
• Increasing interoperability between the naval forces.
• Deepen the partnership for the Indo-Pacific, for shared aspiration, for a free, open and
resilient Indo-Pacific.
Source: PIB

19. Indian President Droupadi Murmu has launched the Indian Navy’s advanced stealth frigate,
INS Vindhyagiri at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE).

About INS Vindhyagiri -

• INS Vindhyagiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A Frigates series, showcasing India’s
commitment to indigenous defense technology and self-reliance.
• After INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, INS Vindhyagiri derives its name
from a mountain range in Karnataka.

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• These frigates are a follow-on class of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, integrating
improved stealth, advanced weapons, and cutting-edge sensors.
• It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India
Knowledge Nuggets
• Project 17 Alpha frigates (P-17A) were launched by the Indian Navy in 2019.
• The first stealth ship launched was the Nilgiri, launched in 2019.
• The project was launched to construct a series of stealth guided-missile frigates, which are
currently being constructed by two companies:
o Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) and
o Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
• These guided-missile frigates have been constructed with a specific stealth design, which
has radar-absorbent coatings and is low-observable which can make its approach
undetectable for the enemies.
• The new technology also reduces the infrared signals of the ship.

20. Indian Navy ships INS Visakhapatnam and Deepak are visiting Port Mina Salman, Bahrain.
• The visit is aimed at strengthening ties between the Indian and Bahraini navies.
• The visit includes sharing best practices to enhance cooperation between the two navies.

Knowledge Nuggets
• Bahrain is an island country in West Asia situated on the Persian Gulf.
pg. 122
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• It is made up of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands.

o Capital: Manama
o Currency: Bahraini Dinar
o King: Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
Source: ANI

21. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host a mega multilateral military exercise named Tarang Shakti
(largest air exercise ever conducted in India) in mid of 2024.
• The exercise was initially scheduled for October-November 2023.
Source: ToI

22. India has presented the Indian Navy’s Dornier 228 maritime surveillance aircraft to the Sri
Lanka Air Force (SALF) at the event in Katunayake SLAF Base, Colombo, SriLanka.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Dornier 228:
• The 19-seater Dornier 228 aircraft is a highly versatile multi-purpose light transport
aircraft.
• It was designed and manufactured for the first time by Dornier GmbH (a German aircraft
manufacturer).
• Following the transfer of technology from the German corporation, Hindustan Aeronautics
Limited (HAL) began manufacturing at its transport aircraft division in Kanpur after obtaining
a product licence.
Source: TH

23. Indian Army has inducted the first Swathi Mark II Mountain variant Weapon Locating Radar
(WLR), a lighter and compact version WLR for mountains & high-altitude areas.
• The Swathi Mountains WLR is an advanced electronically scanned phased array radar.
• It is specifically designed for operations in mountainous and high-altitude areas.
• Swathi Mk II is developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, under the
Ministry of Defence (MoD
Knowledge Nuggets
What is a Weapon Locating Radar?

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• The WLR stands as a critical asset for modern militaries, employing advanced signal
processing techniques to autonomously detect and track hostile artillery, mortars, and
rocket launchers.
• The radar's sophistication lies in its ability to detect and track small projectiles across
the battlefield while factoring in environmental conditions for precise launch and impact
point estimations.
• A hallmark of the WLR is its high mobility and swift deployment capabilities, allowing
it to adapt to changing operational requirements efficiently.
• The WLR also acts as a potent friendly force multiplier by providing critical information
on enemy weapon systems.
Source: RW

24. India’s first long-range side swing revolver ‘Prabal’ has been launched at the Small Arms
Factory (SFA) in Kanpur, for civilians and arms dealers.
• The revolver with “twice the range of other revolvers” is manufactured by Advanced
Weapons and Equipment India Ltd. (AW&EIL), government-owned enterprise ultimate
weapon system provider.
Source: HT

25. Second Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, known as Yard 76 (LSAM 8) has been
launched in Andhra Pradesh.
• The barge has been built by M/s SECON Engineering using mostly indigenous equipment
and parts.
• MCA barges will provide impetus to operational commitments of Indian Navy as
they facilitate transportation, embarkation and disembarkation of ammunition to Naval
ships.

Source: PIB

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26. Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Naval Trainer Prototype ‘NP5’ has successfully completed its
maiden flight in Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) Airport, Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• LCA Navy is designed and developed jointly by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
and HAL.
• The first trainer prototype NP1 was flown in 2012 and the fighter prototype NP2 was flown in
2015.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
• Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is a department of the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO) and the nodal agency for the design & development
of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
Source: IE

27. Iran has launched Mohajer-10, a new domestically build attack drone (unmanned combat
aerial vehicle – UCAV) with enhanced capabilities.
• Mohajer-10 can stay in the air for up to 24 hours at an altitude of 7,000 meters.
• It has an operational radius of 2,000 kilometres and the maximum fuel capacity of the drone
is 450 litres.
• Mohajer-10 is the upgraded version of the “Mohajer-6” and resembles the MQ-9 Reaper
drone of the United States of America (USA).
Source: WION

28. India’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) LSP-7 aircraft has successfully test fired the
ASTRA indigenous state–of-the-art missile, off the coast of Goa.
• The missile release was carried out by Tejas at an altitude of about 20,000 feet(ft).
Knowledge Nuggets
Light Combat Aircraft Tejas
• Tejas is a single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft, with the capability to operate in high-
threat air environments.
• It is designed by the ADA in collaboration with Aircraft Research and Design Centre
(ARDC) of HAL for the IAF and Indian Navy.

About ASTRA

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• It is an Indian family of all-weather beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, developed by the

Defence Research and Development Organisation.
• Different missiles of this family are capable of engaging targets at varying distances of 500
m up to 340 km.
• ASTRA is designed to be mounted on a fighter aircraft and engages and destroys highly
manoeuvring supersonic aerial targets.

Source: PIB

29. Indian Navy has successfully undertaken the maiden test drop of the Search and Rescue
Kit (SARK) from the Boeing P-8I long-range patrol aircraft.
• The Test flight was conducted by the Indian Navy’s INS (Indian Navy Ship) Hansa-based
Indian Naval Air Squadrons (INAS) 316 squadron.
• SARK is an indigenous (Made in India) kit that can be dropped from aircraft with the help of
parachutes to carry out rescue missions in the deep sea.
o This will enable the Indian Navy to undertake search and rescue operations from
long ranges off the coast and strengthen India’s position as a Preferred Security
Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

pg. 126
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• It was developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment

(ADRDE), a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Agra,
Uttar Pradesh (UP).
Source: ET

AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

1. Seven products, including four from Rajasthan, were given the Geographical Indication (GI)
tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai.
• Geographical Indications Registry works under the aegis of the Department of Industry
Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Products -
o ‘Jalesar Dhatu Shilp’ (a metal craft) from Jalesar in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah district
o ‘Goa Mankurad Mango’ (aka malcorada, cardozo mankurad, corado, and Goa
mankur)
o ‘Goan Bebinca’
o ‘Udaipur Koftgari Metal Craft’
o ‘Bikaner Kashidakari Craft’
o ‘Jodhpur Bandhej Craft’, and
o ‘Bikaner Usta Kala Craft’
Source: The Hindu

2. Indian scientists have developed the first ever low-pungent mustard that is pest and
disease-resistant.
• It is based on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, while being non-GM and transgene-free.
What is the Significance of Gene Editing in Mustard Breeding?
• Traditional mustard seeds that are grown in India contain about 120-130 parts per million
(ppm) of compounds called glucosinolates, which are a group of sulphur and nitrogen-
containing compounds contributing to the characteristic pungency of their oil and meal.
• These compounds serve as natural defenders, protecting the plant from pests and
diseases.
• With gene editing, the glucosinolate content can be regulated without compromising with
the plant’s ability to resist pests.
Source: IE
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AWARDS
1. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi was conferred the Lokmanya Tilak National Award
in Pune, Maharashtra.
• The Award was constituted by Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust in 1983 to honour the legacy of
Lokmanya Tilak.
• The Prime Minister donated the cash prize to the Namami Gange Project.
Source: PM India

2. Reza Mia, a South African Indian-origin innovator has won the National Science and
Technology (NSTF) award in the category for Innovation and research
• The NSTF Awards honour and celebrate outstanding contributions to science, engineering
and technology and innovation.
• Reza Mia has led the Pegasus Universal Aerospace Team, which created a pioneer in
vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Source: NoA

3. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Lokmanya Tilak Award in Pune.
• He is the 41st recipient of this award
About the award
• The award was instituted in 1983 by the Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust.
• This award is given every year on 1st August, the death anniversary of Lokmanya Tilak, to
persons who have made remarkable and extraordinary contributions, working for the
progress and development of the nation.
Source: NoA

4. Fortune Global 500 companies list has been released.

• From India – Reliance Industries (88th rank), Indian Oil Corporation (94th rank)
• Walmart has been on the top of the list for 16 of the past 20 years.
• Saudi Aramco is valued at over $2 trillion. Aramco’s net profits last year were $159 billion.
That makes it the most profitable business in the world.
o It is the third most valuable company, and the most profitable business, in the
world.
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Source: Fortune and Saudi Aramco

5. Ratan Tata has been honoured with the first ever ‘Udyog Ratna Award’ for his outstanding
contribution to Maharashtra’s industrial development.
• The Udyog Ratna Award is one of the category awards presented in the 1st Maharashtra
Industry Awards 2023, instituted by the Maharashtra government.
Other Awards:
• Udyog Mitra Award (Young Entrepreneur Award) – Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum
Institute of India
• Udyogini Award (Best Women Entrepreneur) – Gauri Kirloskar of Kirloskar Group was
honoured with this award
• Utkrusht Marathi Udyojak Award (Outstanding Marathi Entrepreneur) -Vilas Shinde,
Chairman and MD (CMD) of Sahyadri Farms.
Source: LM

6. India Smart Cities Award Contest, 2022

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• Indore has been named the best Smart City and Madhya Pradesh as the top State for
their outstanding performance in the Smart Cities Mission.
• Chandigarh won the award for the best Union Territory.
o Top 3 Smart City: Indore, Surat and Agra
o Top 3 in State: Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan
o Top UT: Chandigarh
• The awards, are organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the Smart
Cities Mission.
Knowledge Nuggets
Smart Cities mission
• Objective: To promote cities that provide core infrastructure, clean and sustainable
environment and give a decent quality of life to their citizens through the application of
‘smart solutions’.
• Launch year: 2015
• Nature: Centrally Sponsored scheme
• Coverage: 100 cities
Smart Cities Award
• Objective: To encourage cities to practice approaches to making cities habitable,
ecological, and financially feasible.
• Organized by: The Smart Cities Mission, by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• This is the fourth edition of the ISAC awards, three editions in 2018, 2019 and 2020.
• The 2022 edition was launched in April last year during the ‘Smart Cities-Smart
Urbanization’ event in Surat.
Source: IE

7. Highlights of 69th National Film Award

• The National Awards for 2021 were announced by filmmaker Ketan Mehta who headed the
11-member jury.
Winners

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Knowledge Nuggets
About the awards
• It was first awarded in 1954, initially they were called the ‘State Awards’ given for regional
languages.
• The awards aim at encouraging the production of films of aesthetic and technical excellence
and social relevance.
• The event is held by the Government of India’s Directorate of Film Festivals, which comes
under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• Presented by the President of India.
• Categories: Features, Non-Features, and Best Writing on Cinema.
Source: IE

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IMPORTANT DAYS
1. July 28 – Plastic Overshoot Day
• In 2023, the volume of plastic waste will overshoot the volume that waste systems can
manage on July 28th.
• Every country has its own Plastic Overshoot Day. India’s Plastic Overshoot Day was on
January 6.
Source: POD

2. July 30 – World Day against Trafficking in Persons; Theme - Reach every victim of trafficking,
leave no one behind
Knowledge Nuggets
• What are the constitutional & legislative provisions related to Trafficking in India?
o Article 23 (1) - Trafficking in Human Beings or Persons is prohibited
o The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 - prohibiting commercial sexual
exploitation
o Criminal Law (amendment) Act 2013
o Protection of Children from Sexual offences (POCSO) Act, 2012
o Other Acts which indirectly prohibit trafficking -
▪ Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, Bonded Labour System (Abolition)
Act, 1976, Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986,
Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994
• What are the measures taken by Government of India to Prevent and Combat
Human Trafficking?
o Anti Trafficking Cell (ATC) under the Ministry of Home Affairs
• Has India implemented International Conventions on Trafficking?
o United Nations Convention on Transnational Organised Crime (UNCTOC)
o SAARC Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and
Children for Prostitution

pg. 132
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Source: UN and MEA

3. July 31 to August 5 - Aviation Security Culture Week; Theme - See it, Say it, Secure it
• Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, celebrated
this day for the first time.
• Director-General, BCAS - Shri Zulfiquar Hasan
Source: PIB

4. July 31 - World Ranger Day; Theme- ’30 by 30‘

• The theme is based on the 2022 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity
(COP15), where a Global Biodiversity Framework was agreed upon by world leaders and
decision-makers. Target 3 of the framework outlined a requirement that at least 30% of
the planet is effectively conserved and managed by 2030 (’30 by 30’).
• Who is a ranger? - A keeper of a park, forest, or area of countryside. Their work includes
protection, conservation, monitoring, visitor services, fire management, law enforcement,
education, community support, and regulation of sustainable use.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The International Ranger Federation (IRF) was founded on 31 July 1992 in the Peak
District National Park in the UK.
• Objectives -
o A global forum for rangers around the world to share their successes and best
practice in protecting the world’s natural, historic and cultural heritage
o To promote the exchange of information and technology from countries in which
protected area management enjoys broad public and government support, to
countries in which it is less supported
• Mission -
o To develop, advance and promote throughout the world community, the Ranger
profession and its critical role in the conservation of natural and cultural resources.
• Current Headquarters - Australia
Source: IRF

5. August 1 - World Lung Cancer Day

Source: BS

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6. August 1 to 7 - World Breastfeeding Week; Theme - Let’s make breastfeeding and work,
work!
Knowledge Nuggets
• The Innocenti Declaration was produced and adopted by participants at the
WHO/UNICEF policymakers’ meeting on “Breastfeeding in the 1990s: A Global
Initiative” in 1990.
• It was co-sponsored by the United States Agency for International Development
(A.I.D.) and the Swedish International Development Authority (SIDA), held at the
Spedale degli Innocenti, Florence, Italy.
• Why is breastfeeding important?
o Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies.
o Breastfeeding can help protect babies against some short- and long-term illnesses
and diseases
o Breast milk shares antibodies from the mother with her baby
o Breastfeeding can reduce the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2
diabetes, and high blood pressure
o The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for
about 6 months, and then continuing breastfeeding while introducing
complementary foods until a child is 12 months old or older.
Source: WHO and Innocenti

7. 1 August- Muslim Women’s Rights Day

• Purpose- To commemorate the enactment of law against Triple talaq. The central
government had enforced the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act,
2019 or popularly known as Triple Talaq law on August 1, 2019.
Source: IE

8. 1 August- World Fintech Day

• A recent report by IIFL FinTech suggests that the Indian Fintech market is expected to cross
USD 1 trillion by 2030.
Source: ET

9. 1 August- World Wide Web Day

History-
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• Invented by English computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee while he was working at the
European Organization for Nuclear Research, known as CERN.
• A proposal to create the Web was passed by Tim in 1989.
o By the end of 1990, the system was implemented at the CERN.
• The Web was released outside CERN to other research institutions and the whole Internet in
1991.
Source: BS

10. 2 August- Earth Overshoot Day

• What does it overshoot signify? - The point at which we exhaust the resources earth can
regenerate in a year while also processing its waste.
• It is calculated by the Global Footprint Network (GFN), an American think tank by
comparing humanity’s ecological footprints, such as waste output, carbon emissions, and
resource consumption, to the Earth’s ability to replenish those resources in that year.
Source: UNRIC

11. August 4 - National Bone and Joint Day

Source: IE

12. 6 August- Hiroshima Day (76th anniversary)

• Purpose- To advocate for peace politics and raise awareness of the catastrophic
consequences of the atomic bomb attack on Hiroshima.
Knowledge Nuggets
History-
• In 1945, the United States deployed two atomic bombs, named 'The Little Boy' and 'The
Fat Man,' on Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, respectively.
• The bombing of Hiroshima resulted in the loss of 39% of the city's civilian population.
Source: IT

13. 7 August- National Handloom Day (9th edition); Theme- "Handlooms for Sustainable Fashion"
• Purpose- To generate awareness about the importance of the handloom industry and to
recognise the efforts as well as skills of the community of weavers engaged in the sector.
Knowledge Nuggets

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History-
• Swadeshi Movement was launched on August 7th, 1905 to boycott imported goods and
promote the make-in-India products in a meeting held at Calcutta Town Hall.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first National Handloom Day on 7 August
2015 in Chennai.
Source: IT

14. 8 August- Quit India Movement Day

More about the day-
• The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement or Bharat Chodo
Andolan, was a significant civil disobedience movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi on
8th August 1942 with the aim to end British colonial rule in India and achieve full
independence.
• The year 2023 marks the 81st anniversary of the Quit India movement.
• On this day, Gandhi gave the famous "Do or Die" speech, at the Gowalia Tank Maidan,
now popularly known as August Kranti Maidan.
• The slogan ‘Quit India’ was coined by Yusuf Meherally, who also coined the
slogan “Simon Go Back”.
Source: IT

15. 9 August- World Tribal Day/ International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
• Theme- "Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination."
• This date commemorates the inaugural meeting of the UN Sub-Commission on the
Promotion and Protection of Human Rights Working Group on Indigenous
Populations in 1982, highlighting its significance in promoting and safeguarding the rights
of indigenous populations worldwide.
• Purpose- The day is necessary since indigenous peoples are frequently among the
most underprivileged racial and ethnic groupings in society.
• The UN estimates that although indigenous people make up less than 5% of the global
population, they are responsible for 15% of the world's poorest people.
Source: BS

16. 10 August- World Biofuel Day

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• Purpose- To create awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative

to conventional fossil fuels.
o The day was first observed in 2015 by the Ministry of Petroleum and Gas.
What are biofuels?
• Biofuels are environment-friendly fuels that can be produced using biological materials
like agricultural waste, trees, crops or even grass.
• In contrast to fossil fuels, biofuels are renewable, sustainable and biodegradable in
nature.
Types of Biofuels in India

Source: BS

17. 10 August- World Lion Day

• Purpose: To create awareness about conservation & protection of Lions.
Historical Context
• World Lion Day was first established in 2013 by Big Cat Rescue, the world's largest
accredited sanctuary dedicated to lions.
• It was co-founded by Dereck and Beverly Joubert.
• In 2009, the Jouberts approached "National Geographic" and formed a partnership with
them to create the Big Cat Initiative (B.C.I.).
Knowledge Nuggets
More about the Lions
pg. 137
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• IUCN Status:
o African Lion: Vulnerable
▪ The African lion is found in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert.
o Asiatic Lion: Endangered
▪ The Asiatic lion (Persian lion or Indian lion) is presently found only in and
around the Gir Forest in the Saurashtra peninsula of Gujarat in western India.
• Population Status:
o Lions have disappeared from 80% of their historical range in the last century.
o There are only between 30,000 and 100,000 lions left in the world today.
o Threats: Poaching, trophy hunting and the destruction of natural habitat.
• Role in Ecology: Lions are an essential component of the ecosystem because they are
the top predators in their habitat and control the population of grazers, keeping the
ecological balance.
• Conservation Efforts:
o Asiatic Lion Conservation Project: It was launched by the Union Ministry of
Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
o The lion census is conducted once every 5 years.
o Project Lion: Modelled after Project Tiger and Project Elephant, it was unveiled in
August 2020.
o The Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change has released the
Project Lion document titled "Lion @ 47: Vision for Amrutkal".
Source: PIB

18. August 10 – World Lion Day

Source: ET

19. August 10 - World Biofuel Day

• The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has been celebrating the day since 2015 with
a theme. However, because of no official declaration of the theme yet, World Biofuel Day
will be commended on the 2022 theme, 'Biofuels for Sustainability and Rural Income’.
• World Biofuel Day celebrates the legacy of Sir Rudolf Diesel, who developed the diesel
engine in 1892.
Source: BS

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20. 11 August- World Steelpan Day (1st edition)

• Purpose- To recognise the cultural and historical significance of the Steelpan, the National
Musical instrument of Trinidad and Tobago, and its correlation to cultural, social, and
economic development
• Steelpan’ was declared as the National Musical instrument of Trinidad and Tobago in
August 1992.

• Trinidad and Tobago are the southernmost island country in the Caribbean.

Source: UN

21. 12 August- World Elephant Day

• World Elephant Day was co-founded in 2012 by Canadian Patricia Sims and the Elephant
Reintroduction Foundation of Thailand.
• Purpose- To raise awareness about the threats facing elephants, including habitat loss,
poaching, and human-elephant conflict.
• World Elephant Day 2023 theme – “Ending the Illegal Wildlife Trade”.
pg. 139
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Knowledge Nuggets
• India is home to 60% of the Asian elephant population.
• As per Elephant Census (2017), Karnataka has the highest number of elephants (6,049),
followed by Assam (5,719) and Kerala (3,054).
Project Elephant

Source: IM

22. 12 August- International Youth Day

• The first International Youth Day was observed on 12 August, 2000 after its adoption by the
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1999.
• Purpose- To draw worldwide focus towards various issues surrounding the youths
• Theme- Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World
Source: IT

23. 13 August- World Organ Donation Day

• Theme - “Step up to volunteer; need more organ donors to fill the lacunae”.
• It was first celebrated in 2005 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and
the International Society for Organ Donation (ISOD).
• Purpose- To raise awareness about the importance of organ donation and to encourage
people to become organ donors.
Source: HT

24. 14 August- Partition Horrors Remembrance Day / Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas
• Purpose- To remember of the struggles and sacrifices during the partition of India into India
and Pakistan in 1947.
• 14th August 2023 marks the 3rd observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.
Source: HT

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25. 19 August- World Humanitarian Day 2023

• Purpose- To pay tribute to humanitarian people around the world, who have committed
their lives in order to support or help others, particularly in times of crisis and conflict.
• The 2023 WHD Campaign tagline is #NoMatterWhat.
• WHD is a campaign by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian
Affairs (OCHA).
• The first World Humanitarian Day was observed in 2009.
• This year marks the 20th anniversary of the attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad,
Iraq.
Source: UN

26. 19 August- World Photography Day

• Theme: “Landscapes”
• Purpose- To celebrate the art, craft, science, and history of photography.
• History- It was first celebrated in 1839, after the French government introduced the
daguerreotype process - a revolutionary photographic methodology developed by Louis
Daguerre and Joseph Nicéphore Niépce.
Source: ET

27. 20 to 24 August- World Water Week

• It is annually observed across the globe during the last week of August with an aim to
examine the pivotal role of water in addressing several pressing global challenges such as
water crisis, global warming, biodiversity loss, etc.
• The Theme of World Water Week 2023 is “Seeds of Change: Innovative Solutions for a
Water-Wise World”
• World Water Week is annually organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute
(SIWI).
• The UN World Water Day coordinated by UN-Water is annually celebrated on 22nd March
across the globe to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6:
Water and Sanitation for all by 2030, as part of the 2030 Agenda.
Source: WWW

28. 20 August- Sadbahavana Diwas or Harmony Day

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• Purpose- To celebrate the birth anniversary of India’s 6th Prime Minister (PM) Rajiv
Gandhi.
Source: HI

29. 20 August- World Mosquito Day

• Purpose- To commemorate Sir Ronald Ross, a British doctor who discovered the
relationship between mosquitoes and the transmission of malaria between humans in 1897.
• He received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902 for this work.
Source: MMV

30. 21 August- International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism
• Purpose- To honour and support the victims and survivors of terrorism and to promote and
protect the full enjoyment of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
• Theme: “Legacy: Finding Hope and Building a Peaceful Future.”
Source: UN

31. 21 August- World Senior Citizen’s Day 2023

• Purpose: To honour the efforts, contributions, and achievements made by elderly people to
society, families, and communities. The day also recognises the issues that an elderly
individual faces in old age.
• History- The day was started in 1988, when Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the
United States of America (USA) signed the Proclamation of 5847, and declared the 21st of
August every year as the “National Senior Citizens Day”.
Source: BS

32. 22 August- International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on
Religion or Belief 2023
• Purpose- To condemn the violence and acts of terrorism against individuals of religious
minorities, on the basis of or in the name of religion or belief.
• 2023 also marks the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Declaration on Human
Rights Defenders.
• 10 December 2023 also marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights (UDHR).
Source: UN
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33. 23 August- International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
• Purpose: To remind people of the tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade during colonial
rule and to raise awareness about the abolition of slave trading and related practices.
• This date also pays tribute to those who worked hard to abolish the slave trade and slavery
throughout the world.
• The annual observance of the day is led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Source: UNESCO

34. 29 August- National Sports Day (NSD)

• Objective: To commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand
o He is also known as Hockey Wizard' and 'The Magician'.
• The first National Sports Day was celebrated on August 29, 2012 and hence this year
marks the 12th anniversary of Rashtriya Khel Divas.
• Significance: Encourages people of all ages to embrace physical fitness, regular exercise
and a healthy lifestyle.
o Serves as a catalyst for developing a robust sports culture in India.
• Theme - "Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society"
• A National Sports Federations (NSF) portal has also been launched this year.
o It is a unified online portal and a single window system for the NSFs for
processing of annual renewal of recognition of NSFs, elections of NSFs etc.
o It will replace the existing system of physical mode of submission of documents by
NSFs and ensure better coordination among the Department of Sports and the
NSFs.
Source: LM

35. 29 August: International Day against Nuclear Tests

• The day was established when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a
resolution on December 2, 2009, in its 64th session.
• This resolution was initiated by Kazakhstan to mark the 18th anniversary of the closing of
the USSR-controlled Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site in 1991 at Kazakhstan.
• The first-ever International Day against Nuclear Tests was commemorated on 29 August,
2010.
pg. 143
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• The world's first nuclear explosion occurred on July 16, 1945, when a plutonium implosion
device was tested at a site in New Mexico. The code name for the test was "Trinity".
Knowledge Nuggets
Various International Treaties relating to nuclear weapons are-
• Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) 1968:

o The treaty defines nuclear-weapon states as those that have built and tested a
nuclear explosive device before January 1, 1967 – the US, Russia, UK, France and
China – and disallows any other state from acquiring nuclear weapons.

o India is not a signatory; it declined to accede to the NPT, citing concerns about
the treaty's perceived discriminatory nature and lack of reciprocal obligations from
nuclear weapons states.

• Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT):

o It bans nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes, by everyone,

everywhere: above ground, under water and underground.

o India has not signed the CTBT.

o It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 September 1996, but
has not entered into force.

• Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG):

o It is a Group of nuclear supplier countries that seek to prevent nuclear proliferation

by controlling the export of materials, equipment and technology that can be used to
manufacture nuclear weapons.

o India is not a member of the NSG.

• Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons/ Nuclear Weapon Ban Treaty:

o It is the first legally binding international agreement to comprehensively prohibit

nuclear weapons, with the goal of leading towards their total elimination.

o It entered into force on 22 January 2021 and India is not a member of this treaty.

Source: UN

36. 30 August: International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances 2023

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• United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted the resolution on 21st December
2010.
• The first-ever International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances was observed on
the 30th of August 2001.
• Purpose: To raise awareness of the crime of enforced disappearance and to honor the
victims and their families.
Source: UN

37. 30 August: National Small Industry Day 2023

• Purpose: To celebrate the invaluable contributions made by the small-scale industry to
India’s growth.
• This day is also aimed to promote small businesses nationwide and offer job opportunities to
unemployed males and females for the betterment of their lives.
Source: FE

SPORTS
1. Indian women's hockey team won the title of Torneo del Centernario 2023 by defeating
hosts Spain (by 3-0 score) in Terrassa, Barcelona.
• It was the 100th Anniversary of the Spanish Hockey Federation International Tournament.
• Next, Indian women’s hockey team will participate in the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou,
China, from September 23 to October 8.
Knowledge Nuggets
• India ranks 8th in the FIH women’s hockey rankings.
• Captain of Indian Women’s Hockey Team - Savita Punia (goalkeeper)
Source: Olympics.com

2. Stuart Broad (former English cricketer) has announced retirement.

Source: IT

3. Cristiano Ronaldo became the highest goal scorer through headers when he scored the
second goal for Al Nassr against US Monastir in a King Salman Club Cup game at the King
Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Source: Sportstar
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4. Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has released the women’s ranking for 2023.
• Top – Iga Swiatek (rank 1)
• From India – Ankita Raina (182nd) and Karman Thandi (211th)
Source: WTA

5. Chinese shuttler Weng Hongyang has won the men’s singles of Australia Open Super 500
badminton tournament.
• India's ace shuttler H.S. Prannoy was the opponent of Hongyang.
• Beiwen Zhang (from US) won the women’s singles.
Knowledge Nuggets
• The BWF World Tour is divided into six levels, namely World Tour Finals, four Super 1000,
six Super 750, seven Super 500, and 11 Super 300 in order. One other category of
tournament, the BWF Tour Super 100 level, also offers ranking points.
• The Super 500 is a Grade 2 (level 4) event in the BWF tournament ranking system.
Source: IE and Hindu

6. FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 has been won by Spain (defeating England).
• The world cup was jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
Source: FIFA

7. D. Gukesh, has dethroned Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand as India’s top-ranked chess

player in the live world rankings.
• Gukesh has achieved this feat by defeating Mistradin Iskandarov in the second round of the
FIDE World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan.
• He has achieved a live rating of 2755.9 and climbed to the 9th position in the classic open
category.
• FIDE is the global governing body of chess.
• Indian chess prodigy Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa was the runner up in the finals.
Magnus Carlsen won the tournament.
Source: IE and ET

8. BWF Japan Open 2023 -

Winners
pg. 146
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• Men’s singles- Viktor Axelsen (Germany) defeated Jonatan Christie (Indonesia) in the
finals.
• Women’s singles- An Se Young (Republic of Korea) won the title by beating He Bing
Jiao (People's Republic of China).
• The BWF Japan Open is a Super 750 event on the 2023 BWF World Tour, with players
earning ranking points which count towards Paris 2024 qualification.
Source: Olympics.com

9. Gianluigi Buffon (Italian football goalkeeper) has announced retirement.

Source: Al Jazeera

10. England cricketer Alex Hales has announced international retirement.

Source: IE

11. V. Jyothi Surekha, Aditi Swami, and Parneet Kaur from India won the gold medal in the
World Archery Championships in Berlin by defeating Mexico.
Source: Sportstar

12. Star Indian athlete Jyothi Yarraji won the World University Games in Chengdu by smashing
her own national record in the women's 100m hurdles and winning a bronze medal.
• It was India's first ever 100m hurdles medal at the World University Games.
Source: TOI

13. Jeswin Aldrin won the gold medal in World Athletics Continental Tour-Bronze event,
Switzerland.
• Alejandro Parada of Cuba finished second.
Source: Olympics

14. Teen chess champion Gukesh D has surpassed Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand as India's
highest-ranking chess player in the live world (FIDE) rankings.
• Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand's was the top ranker for 37 years.
Source: ET

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15. India won the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 (football) by defeating Malaysia at the Mayor
Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai.
Source: TOI

16. World Archery Championship 2023 in Berlin, Germany

• Medal Tally- 4 (3 gold and 1 bronze)
• Indian Winners-
o Women's individual compound- Aditi Gopichand Swami (Gold)
o Men’s individual compound- Ojas Pravin Deotale (Gold)
o Women’s individual compound- Jyothi Surekha Vennam (Bronze)
o Women’s compound team- Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Parneet Kaur and Aditi
Gopichand Swami (Gold)
• The World Archery Championships 2023 in Berlin is the first Paris 2024 Olympic qualifier
event for archers.
Source: Olympics.com

17. Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships 2023 held at the Gautam Buddha
University in Greater Noida.
• India’s overall medals tally- 42
o 15 medals won by the junior weightlifters and 27 by the youth weightlifters.
Source: Olympics.com

18. 31st World University Game held in Chengdu, China.

• India has won a total of 26 medals across 4 disciplines with highest medal count at the
World University Games.
• Many of the athletes who won the Medals come from Khelo India Scheme and Target
Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
Knowledge Nuggets
World University Game
• World University Games," also known as "Universiade," is an international multi-sport
event specifically for university athletes.
• It is organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU).

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• The Universiade is held every two years and features a wide range of sports similar to
the Olympic Games.
• Next Winter World University Games will be held in 2025 in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany.
Khelo India Scheme
• Khelo India, which translates to ‘Let’s play India’, was proposed by the government of
India in 2017 to revive India’s sporting culture by engaging with children at the
grassroots level.
• It is implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
• Under this movement, the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG), the Khelo India University
Games (KIUG) and the Khelo India Winter Games were set up as annual national sports
competitions.
Source: PIB

19. Kuldeep Yadav has become the fastest Indian to pick 50 wickets in T20 Internationals.
• Kuldeep reached the milestone in his 30th T20I match for India.
o Previously, Yuzvendra Chahal was the fastest Indian who picked 50 T20I wickets in
34 matches.
• Among ICC Full-Member nations, Sri Lanka’s Ajantha Mendis holds the record for picking
50 wickets in 26 T20Is.
Source: Sportstar

20. India's U-31 team has won a bronze medal at the recently concluded World Youth Bridge
Championship at Veldhoven, Netherlands.
• Bridge is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck.
Source: The bridge

21. Spanish women's football team has won the Women's World Cup title with a 1-0 win over
England at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, held in Sydney, Australia.
Related Facts-
• Olga Carmora scored the winning goal for the Spanish team.
• The 9th edition was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
• The tournament began in 1991 and takes place after every 4 years.
• 32 teams participated in the tournament in this edition.

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• The United States team has been the most successful team (4 times winner) in the FIFA
Women’s World Cup.
• Mascot- Tazuni (Penguin)
List of winners
• Young Player of the Tournament: Salma Paralluelo, Spain
• Golden Glove: Mary Earps, England
• Golden Boot: Hinata Miyazawa, Japan
• Golden Ball: Aitana Bonmati, Spain
Source: Sportstar

22. Indian hockey team has defeated Malaysia 4-3 to win for the fourth time at the 7th Asian
Champions Trophy 2023 at Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium, Chennai.
• Indian men's hockey team has jumped to the third spot in FIH Men's Hockey World
Rankings following their win in Chennai.

About Asian Champions Trophy

• The Men's Asian Champions Trophy is an event held annually by the Asian Hockey
Federation (since 2011). It features Asia's top six field hockey teams during that hockey
season
• India is the most successful team in this tournament's history.
Source: Sportstar

23. India has won 14 medals in World Under-20 Wrestling Championships 2023 held in
Amman, Jordan (46th edition).
• Medal Tally- 14 medals (4 golds, 3 silver and 7 bronze)

pg. 150
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Source: Olympics.com

24. Khelo India Women’s League has been renamed as “Asmita Women’s League”
• ASMITA stands for “Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through
Action”.
• The Asmita Portal serves as a comprehensive resource, offering valuable insights into
upcoming leagues among other features.
• It will enable any school, college, government, or private organization to host the 'Asmita
Women's League' and be part of Khelo India's march towards sporting excellence.
Source: AIR

25. Indian players Honey Dabas and Rahul Jograjiya have won gold and silver medals
respectively in the World Para Powerlifting Championships, held in Dubai.
Source: NoA

26. United World Wrestling Federation (UWW), the international governing body for the sport of
amateur wrestling, has indefinitely suspended the membership of the Wrestling Federation of
India (WFI), the governing body of wrestling in India with immediate effect due to lack of elections
in the organisation.
• Following this, Indian wrestlers will not be competing in the 2023 World Wrestling
Championships in Belgrade, Serbia under the Indian flag but instead, they will have to
participate as ‘neutral athletes’.
o If an Indian athlete makes it to the winner’s podium, the national anthem will not be
played.
• The Indian athletes will compete in the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China under the
Indian flag since the entries were sent by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Source: ET

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27. Magnus Carlsen has won his first International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Cup
title by defeating India’s GM Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa in the FIDE Chess World Cup
2023.
• Fabiano Caruana of the United States of America (USA) defeated Nijat Asabov of
Azerbaijan to secure the 3rd place.
• Aleksandra Goryachkina of Russia won the 2023 FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup title
by defeating Nurgyul Salimova of Bulgaria in the finals.
Source: TH

28. Indian Women’s Hockey Team has won the inaugural Women’s Hockey5s Asia Cup by
defeating Thailand (7-2) in the final match.
• With this victory, India has qualified for the FIH Women Hockey 5s World Cup 2024, the
inaugural edition of FIH Hockey5s World Cup, to be held in Muscat, Oman in 2024.
Source: ToI

29. WR Chess Team has won the FIDE World Rapid Team Championship 2023.
• This was the first edition of the championship held in Germany.
• FIDE World Rapid Team 2023 is organized by FIDE in partnership with WR Logistics GmbH
and witnessed the participation of 36 teams and 300 players from different countries.
o Each team has at least six and not more than nine players, including at least one
female player and one recreational player.
• Team Freedom has finished second, while the Indian squad of MGD1 was third.
Source: FIDE

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
1. Ministry of Electronics and IT has signed MoU between the Centre for Nano Science and
Engineering (CeNSE) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru and Lam
Research India (a renowned supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment) during the
Semicon India in Gandhinagar.
• Purpose - to jointly develop a customised course offering for Indian universities, dedicated
to teaching semiconductor fabrication technology.

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• This will utilise Lam Research’s cutting-edge Semiverse Solutions virtual fabrication
software, SEMulator3D.
Source: PIB

2. India and Moldova have signed an MOU for cooperation in Agriculture.

Source: PIB

3. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) and the Centre for Development of
Telematics (C-DoT) have signed an MoU to establish mechanism of technical and institutional
cooperation in telecommunications.
• Trai Centre of Studies and Research (Trai CSR) was established as an entity within Trai
with a mandate to conceptualise, coordinate, and enable technological studies in the
telecom and broadcasting sectors.
• The partnership aims to promote cooperation for research on regulatory practices and
bridge gaps in our understanding.
Source: BS

4. Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Brookfield Asset Management for manufacturing renewable energy and decarbonization
equipment in Australia.
Source: LM

5. Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) and National Institute of
Open Schooling (NIOS) have signed Memorandum of Understanding to revolutionize deaf
education with Indian sign language.
• The MoU was signed during 3rd year NEP 2020 celebrations and 2nd Akhil Bharatiya
Shiksha Sangam at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
How will MoU help?
• Indian Sign Language (ISL) is used in the deaf community all over India. But ISL is not used
in deaf schools to teach deaf children.
Source: PIB

6. NHPC Limited and Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) have
signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
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• Significance- Under this, NHPC will provide CSR support for distribution of aids and
assistive devices to around 1,000 Divyangjans (Persons with Disabilities) in the vicinity of
NHPC Projects located in North and North Eastern states.
Source: PIB

7. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) and All India Institute of
Medical Sciences, New Delhi (AIIMS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
• Significance- IREDA will help AIIMS to reduce electricity bills, along with minimizing carbon
footprint by employing solar power projects.
Source: ET

8. IIM Ahmedabad’s CIIE.CO (Centre for Innovation Incubation & Entrepreneurship) has signed
a Memorandum of Understanding with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
to establish a pre-seed fund, especially for deep-tech start-ups.
• The fund will have a total corpus of ₹40 crore, equally contributed by both SIDBI and
CIIE.CO.
What is seed funding?
• Seed Funding is an early stage of investment in a start-up or a new business idea.
• The goal of seed funding is to help the company reach a point where it can secure additional
rounds of funding or generate revenue to become self-sustaining.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CIIE.CO
• CIIE.CO is an Indian startup accelerator and incubator that supports early-stage
startups located at IIM Ahmedabad in Ahmedabad, India. It was founded in 2002 to
promote innovation and entrepreneurship in India.
Source: HBL

9. For the first time ever, Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society (SMSES) has signed
an MOU with All India Football Federation (AIFF) to promote football at grass root level.
• As part of this MoU, from this edition onwards, a Subroto XI team will be formed in Junior
Boys (U-17) category. The team will participate in AIFF Youth Competition from the 2023-
24 season.
• To update and educate coaches, an education workshop will be undertaken by AIFF for
coaches of final round teams at Delhi and Bengaluru.
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Knowledge Nuggets
• Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society (SMSES) conducts the prestigious
Subroto Cup International Football Tournament annually since 1960, under the aegis
of Air Force Sports Control Board.
• This is a unique football tournament wherein school teams from all states starting from
grass-root level compete for top honours in three categories viz, Sub-junior Boys (U-14),
Junior Boys (U-17) and Junior Girls (U-17).
• All India Football Federation (AIFF) HQ – New Delhi
• AIFF President - Kalyan Chaubey
Source: PIB and AIFF

10. Indian embassy in Kathmandu and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General
Administration of Nepal signed four MoUs to undertake the developmental projects, which
will be built under the grant assistance of India.
• Among the four projects, three will be in the education sector and one project in Water
Supply and Sanitation, at a total estimated cost of NRs. 170 million.
Source: BS

11. Ministry of Railways and IIT Madras has signed a memorandum of understanding ((MoU) to
establish the India 5G testbed.
• The testbed will be located at the Indian Railway Institute of Signal Engineering and
Telecommunications (IRISET) in Secunderabad.
• Aim: To accelerate the indigenisation efforts of Indian railways in the field of communications
and create a testing facility for Indian railways.
Knowledge Nuggets
Test bed and its need
• The 5G applications are examined in test bed environment before a commercial rollout.
This allows them to understand how the network will perform in real-world applications.
• In the absence of the indigenous 5G test bed, Indian start-ups and industry players would
have to take their products abroad for testing and validation purposes.
Source: HBL

12. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
35 institutions for fostering collaboration in standardisation and conformity assessment
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• Institutions- NITs (National Institutes of Technology), Government and Private Engineering

colleges from different states across India.
• Benefit of MoU- The participating institution will associate with the technical committees of
BIS at the national and international level, get infrastructure support for relevant R&D
(Research & Development) Projects etc.
• BIS is the National Standard Body of India, under Department of Consumer affairs,
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
o Mandate- For the harmonious development of the activities of standardization,
marking and quality certification of goods.
Source: HBL

13. Uttar Pradesh government and Mexican state Nuevo Leon have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) for investment in tourism, infrastructure, pharma and medical
sectors in Uttar Pradesh.
Source: HT

14. The United Services Institution of India (USI), the country’s oldest and prestigious National
Security and Defence Services think tank, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
with Power Conversion Technologies (PCTI) for the inaugural Military Heritage Guided
Tour at Hussainiwala in Firozpur district, Punjab.
• An additional MoU was signed between PCTI and Common Service Centres (CSC) – e-
Governance India Limited for the local support and accessibility for these heritage sites
and it will be facilitated through CSC – special purpose vehicle (SPV).
• The tour provides the tourists to view the important places related to military achievements.
Key points:
o USI will identify potential tourist destinations and document them.
o PCTI will oversee the organization of the tours.
Source: ANI

15. Amazon India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and the Cottage and Rural
Industries Department, Government of Gujarat to help boost e-commerce exports from
Gujarat.

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• Amazon will focus on bringing weavers, artisans and other micro, small and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) from Gujarat on Amazon Global Selling, the e-commerce exports
program.
• The Cottage and Rural Industries Department will identify about 1,000 artisans in handloom
and handicrafts through its Hastkala Setu Yojana program.
Source: ET

16. Apraava Energy Private Ltd, Mumbai has signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)
with REC Ltd (Formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) and Power Finance
Corporation Ltd (PFC), to get finance of Rs 9,120 crore for funding its wind, transmission,
and advanced metering projects in India.
Source: PIB

17. Amazon India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and the Cottage and Rural
Industries Department, Government of Gujarat, to help boost e-commerce exports from
Gujarat.
• Amazon will focus on bringing weavers, artisans and other micro, small and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) from Gujarat on Amazon Global Selling, the e-commerce exports
program.
• The Cottage and Rural Industries Department will identify about 1,000 artisans in handloom
and handicrafts through its Hastkala Setu Yojana program.
Source: ET

18. Apraava Energy Private Ltd, Mumbai has signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)
with REC Ltd (Formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) and Power Finance
Corporation Ltd (PFC), to get finance of Rs 9,120 crore for funding its wind, transmission,
and advanced metering projects in India.
Source: PIB

19. IIITD Innovation and Incubation Centre (IIITD-IC), a section 8 company promoted by the
Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology-Delhi (IIITD), has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with YES Bank Limited (YES Bank) to support and scale up the growth
of startup ecosystem in India.

pg. 157
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Source: IT

20. NHPC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Universal Health
Foundation to fulfil its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
• NHPC will support in providing essential infrastructure facilities to the Universal Health
Foundation to establish Gramin Gyan Jyoti Kendras in 9 villages of Jodhpur district and 1
village in Nagore district, in Rajasthan.
• The Gramin Gyan Jyoti Kendras are designed as reading room cum online coaching
centers, offering an exemplary model for learning centers in rural areas.
o These centers primarily cater to underprivileged students from educationally
disadvantaged villages.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is CSR?
• It is referred to as a corporate initiative to assess and take responsibility for the company's
effects on the environment and impact on social welfare.
• In India, the concept of CSR is governed by clause 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.
• India is the first country in the world to mandate CSR spending.
• The CSR provisions within the Act is applicable to companies with an annual turnover
of 1,000 crore and more, or a net worth of Rs. 500 crore and more, or a net profit of Rs. 5
crore and more.
• The Act requires companies to set up a CSR committee which shall recommend a
Corporate Social Responsibility Policy to the Board of Directors and also monitor the
same from time to time.
• The Act encourages companies to spend 2% of their average net profit in the previous
three years on CSR activities.
Source: PSUwatch

21. Union Cabinet has given approval to Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between
the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare, India and Government of the Republic of Suriname on cooperation in the field of
Medical Product Regulation.
• The signed MoU between the regulatory authorities of the two countries will facilitate better
understanding of medical products regulation with regard to pharmaceuticals including raw

pg. 158
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materials for pharmaceutical use, biological products, medical devices and cosmetic
products.
Source: PIB

22. India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) on
sharing of ‘India Stack’, a collection of open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), and
Digital Public Goods (DPGs) that aim to facilitate identity, data, and payment services on a large
scale.
• Previously in June 2023, India has entered into MoUs with several countries including
Armenia, Sierra Leone, Suriname, and Antigua & Barbuda to facilitate the sharing of India
Stack.
• Last month, a similar MoU was signed with Papua New Guinea.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is India Stack?
• India Stack is a set of APIs (Application programming interface) that allows
governments, businesses, startups, and developers to utilize a unique digital
Infrastructure to solve India’s hard problems towards presence-less, paperless, and
cashless service delivery.
• India Stack is a government-led initiative that focuses on building a robust digital
infrastructure to enable various digital services across different sectors.
o The components of this collection are owned and maintained by different
agencies.
• INDIA STACK aims to streamline and enhance identity verification, data exchange,
and digital payment processes to make them more accessible and efficient for citizens.
• It includes digital public goods, which are digital resources and tools made available to
the public to support various digital services and initiatives.
• The key components of INDIA STACK include Aadhaar (unique biometric-based
identification system), Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for instant digital
payments, and Digital Locker for secure storage of personal documents.
• The vision of India Stack is not limited to one country (India); it can be applied to any
nation, be it a developed one or an emerging one.
Source: NoA

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23. Tide Platform Limited (Tide), a United Kingdom (UK)-based Small and Medium-Sized
Enterprise (SME) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with North Eastern
Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) to empower digitisation
of the handloom and handicraft sector in northeast India.
• The company will bolster scalability, financial inclusion and market reach for the
community of nearly 2.1 million handloom weavers and 3.5 million
handicraft artisans across 800 clusters in Northeast India in a span of 1 year.
Source: ET

24. Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) has entered into
a memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Development Programme
(UNDP) to enhance and accelerate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in northeastern
regions of India.
• Under this MoU, UNDP would provide MDoNER with several technical support including-
o Fast-tracking progress on the SDG
o Monitoring, evaluation, and capacity building
o Support Aspirational districts and blocks
o Support in the deployment of emerging technologies in governance and in scaling up
good practices.
Source: PIB

25. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) has signed a
performance-based Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE) outlining the strategic targets of IREDA for the FY 2023-24 and
FY 2024-25.
• Government has set a target of achieving Rs 4,350 crores revenue from operations during
FY 2023-24 and Rs.5,220 crores during FY2024-25.
Knowledge Nuggets
About IREDA
• IREDA is a mini ratna company under the MNRE.
• It was set up in 1987 as a specialized non-banking finance agency for the renewable
energy sector.
• IREDA plays a key role in the renewable energy project financing which gives
confidence to the financial institutions/banks to lend in the sector.
pg. 160
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Source: ANI

26. NHPC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RITES Ltd to
construct a railway siding at Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, in support of Dibang Multi-Purpose
Project development.
About the project
• The Dibang Multipurpose Project is a significant hydropower project undertaken by NHPC
Limited in the Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
• It aims to harness the potential of the Dibang River to generate electricity and provide
various benefits like irrigation, flood control, and water supply.
• The project’s proposed capacity is 2,880 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest
hydropower projects in the country.
Source: ET

27. Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), Guwahati has signed a memorandum of understanding
with Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to use National Waterways (NW)-2
(Brahmaputra) and Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) for export of petroleum products
to Bangladesh and other south East Asian countries.
• Under this, NRL will export approximately 10,000 metric tons of petroleum and
petrochemical products per month through NW- 2 and IBPR from IWAI jetty at the Assam’s
Jogighopa Multi-Modal terminal (MMT) Park.
Source: HBL

28. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Kolkata, has signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with V.S.Dempo Holdings Private Limited (Dempo
Group) for building commercial vessels.
• The vessels will be built at the 3 shipyards of the Dempo Group, including two in Goa and
one in Bhavnagar, Gujarat.
• It marks the GRSE’s first attempt to build commercial vessels.
o GRSE is a Public Sector Undertaking Company under the Ministry of Defence.
Source: PSU

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29. Government of India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Government of New
Zealand for an Open Sky Policy, which will allow more flights between various cities in the
two countries.
• Under this, New Zealand’s designated airlines can operate unrestricted services with any
type of aircraft, to/from six Indian cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad,
and Kolkata.
• This is set to amplify bilateral civil aviation relations.
Knowledge Nuggets
• Open Sky Agreements are bilateral agreements that the two countries negotiate to
provide rights for airlines to offer international passenger and cargo services.
• Air Services Agreement (ASA) provides the legal framework for air operations between
two countries which is based on the principles of sovereignty of nations, nationality of
carriers and reciprocity in terms of commercial opportunities for the designated airlines of
each side.
Source: HT

30. National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to speed up
the efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• The SDGs also known as ‘Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development’ is a set of 17 Global Goals to be achieved within 2030 by 193 Member
States.
• The SDGs were adopted by the United Nations in 2015.
Source: PIB

31. Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kenya
Shipyard Limited (KSL) for capacity building and collaboration in ship design and building.
• The MoU was signed during the bilateral Defence Ministers meeting between Union
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence Aden Bare
Duale in New Delhi.
Source: HBL

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APPOINTMENTS
1. New Development Bank (NDB) has elected Thuraiya Alhashmi as a member of its board of
directors and a constituency director.
• Alhashmi is the director of the international financial relations and organisations department
at the UAE Ministry of Finance.
• In March 2023, Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff was elected as the head of the
New Development Bank (NDB).
Source: National News and HT

2. Uday Kumar Hebbar has been appointed as the chairman of Microfinance Industry Network
(MFIN).
• Vice-chairperson- Manoj Nambiar
• MFIN is the premier association and RBI-recognised Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO)
for the microfinance industry.
Source: ANI

3. Shivendra Nath has been appointed as the Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of
Engineering Projects (India) Ltd, a PSU under the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public
Enterprises.
Source: PSUwatch

4. Prof Ganesan Kannabiran has been appointed as the new director of National Assessment
and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
Knowledge Nuggets
About NAAC
Established in 1994, it is an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission
(UGC) responsible for assessing the quality of higher educational institutions in India.
Source: NIE

5. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved extension in service to Shri
Rajiv Gauba as Cabinet Secretary for a further period of 1 year.
• He has become the longest serving Cabinet secretary.

pg. 163
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• The rules allow the Central government to give an extension in service to the cabinet
secretary, in the public interest "provided that the total term of the cabinet secretary, who is
granted such extensions of service, shall not exceed 4 years".
Source: LM

6. Union Home Secretary Ajay kumar Bhalla was given a one-year extension till August 22,
2024.
Source: ET

7. Hun Manet was appointed as the Prime Minister of Cambodia.

Source: TOI

8. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal has been appointed as the chairman of Central Board of Indirect
Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
• New Member- Surjit Bhujabal
Knowledge Nuggets
About CBIC
• CBIC is a statutory body established under the Central Boards of Revenue Act, 1963.
• It is a part of the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance.
• It deals with the tasks of formulation of policy concerning levy and collection of Customs,
Central Excise duties, Central GST and IGST, administration of these taxes, prevention of
smuggling and also narcotics to the extent prescribed.
Source: LM

9. Vijay Kumar Sarawat has been appointed as the Chairman of Quantum Ecosystems
Technology Council of India (QETCI).
• Quantum Ecosystems Technology Council of India (QETCI) is a Not for Profit – Section 8
company which aims to bring Industry, Academia, Government, Partner Councils /
Associations in Quantum together, based on a membership approach.
Source: TH

10. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved to extend the tenure of
Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), for a period of 1
year beyond the date of his retirement.
pg. 164
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• IOCL ranked 94th in the Fortune Global 500 list of 2023.

Source: ET

11. Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni has appointed Hun Manet as the new Prime Minister
(PM) of Cambodia for a 5 year-term.
• Hun Manet is the son of Hun Sen, the former PM of Cambodia and one of Asia’s longest-
serving PMs. Hun Manet will succeed Hun Sen, who has ruled for about 38 years.
Source: ET

12. Raman Sukumar has been elected as Vice Chair of Working Group II (WGII) of the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) bureau for the 7th Assessment Report
(AR7) cycle 2022.
Knowledge Nuggets
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
• The IPCC is the UN body for assessing the science related to climate change.
• It was set up in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization and United Nations
Environment Programme
• Purpose- To provide policymakers with regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate
change, its impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation.
Source: LM

13. Justice Subhasis Talapatra has been appointed as the 33rd Chief Justice of the Orissa
High Court.
• Previous Chief Justice- Justice S Muralidhar
• The oath of office was administered by Governor Ganeshi Lal.
Source: ToI

14. Supreme Court of India (SC) has constituted an all-women committee of 3 former High Court
judges to oversee the relief rehabilitation and rebuilding measures in Manipur.
• The committee is led by former Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court (HC) Gita
Mittal.
• Other members- Justice Shalini Shashank Phansalkar Joshi, former Judge of Bombay
HC and Justice Asha Menon, former Judge of Delhi HC.
Source: TH
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15. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has approved the
appointment of Amit Jhingran as the Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of SBI Life Insurance Company Limited (SBI Life).
Knowledge Nuggets
About Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI):
• Chairman- Debasish Panda
• Headquarters – Hyderabad, Telangana
• Established in – 1999
• Established under – Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act(IRDAI), 1999

About SBI Life Insurance Company limited (SBI Life):

• SBI life was started as a joint venture (JV) between State Bank of India (SBI) and French
financial institution BNP Paribas Cardif.
• Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Incorporated in – 2000
Source: CM

16. R Doraiswamy has been appointed as the Managing Director of Life Insurance
Corporation of India (LIC).
• He will replace Ipe Mini, who is due to superannuate at the end of this month.
Source: HBL

17. Faiz Ahmed Kidwai has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the
National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA) on an additional charge basis.
• The appointment is effective for a period of 9 months starting from June 5, 2023.
• He is currently serving as the Additional Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers
Welfare (DA&FW), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW).
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA)
• NRAA was established as an attached office of the then Department of Agriculture &
Cooperation (now DA&FW) in 2006.

pg. 166
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• NRAA is an expert body that offers the much-needed information inputs about the
systematic management and improvement of the India’s dryland and rainfed agriculture.
• Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Source: ET

18. Anuradha Thakur has been appointed as the Director of Serious Fraud Investigation
Office on an additional charge basis.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO)
• SFIO is a multi-disciplinary organization under Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
• It includes experts from the field of accountancy, forensic auditing, law, information
technology, investigation, company law, capital market and taxation for detecting and
prosecuting or recommending for prosecution white-collar crimes/frauds.
• SFIO was established through the Government of India vide Notification in 2015.
• Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Source: ET

19. Neelkanth Mishra has been appointed as part-time chairman of the Unique Identification
Authority of India (UIDAI).
• The appointments of the Chairperson and the Members are for a period of 3 years or up to
the age of 65 years whichever is earlier, from the date on which they assume office.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI):
• UIDAI is a statutory authority established under the provisions of the Aadhaar Act
2016 by the Government of India under Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology (MeitY).
• It was created to issue Unique Identification numbers (UID), named as “Aadhaar”, to
all residents of India.
• Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Source: BS

20. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL), has appointed Rahul Dravid, former Indian
Cricketer and the current Head Coach of Indian Cricket Team, as its new brand ambassador.

pg. 167
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• BPCL is a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Petroleum and
Natural Gas (MoP&NG).
Source: BS

21. Sachin Tendulkar has been appointed as the national icon for voter awareness and
education under the Election Commission of India (ECI) for a period of 3 years.
Source: PIB

22. Cricketer Shubman Gill has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Tata Capital, the
financial services arm of the Tata Group.
• Tata Capital Limited (TCL) is registered with the Reserve Bank of India as a Systemically
Important Non-Deposit Accepting Core Investment Company (CIC).
Source: BS

23. Justice Prakash Shrivastava, former Chief Justice of the Calcutta high court, has been
appointed as the chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
• NGT is a statutory body established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 for the
disposal of disputes relating to environmental protection and conservation of natural
resources.
Source: ToI

24. Tennis icon Rafael Nadal has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Infosys and its
Digital Innovation initiatives.
• Infosys has secured a 3-year collaboration with the Spanish player.
• Infosys is the digital innovation partner for the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals)
Tour, Roland-Garros, Australian Open, and The International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Source: TH

25. Umesh Revankar has been appointed as the chairman of the Finance Industry Development
Council (FIDC) for a period of 2 years.
• FIDC is a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) cum Representative Body of Asset and
Loan Financing of the Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC) registered with the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Source: BS
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26. Geetika Srivastava has been appointed as 1st woman Charge d’Affaires in the Indian high
commission in Islamabad, Pakistan.
• She is the first woman diplomat to hold this post in the Indian high commission in
Islamabad.
• Both the Indian and Pakistani missions in Islamabad and New Delhi are not been headed by
high commissioners since August 2019, when Islamabad downgraded diplomatic relations
following the scrapping of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status by the Indian government.
Source: LM

MISCELLANEOUS
1. Union Minister Amit Shah unveiled the “Memories Never Die” book, which is a tribute to the
life and legacy of the late former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
• Authors - Dr. APJM Nasima Maraikayar and scientist Dr. Y. S. Rajan.
• This book was originally written in Tamil as ‘Ninaivugalukku Maranamillai’.
Source: NoA

2. “Kargil: Ek Yatri Ki Jubani” book has been authored by Shri Rishi Raj and published by
Prabhat Prakashan.
Source: ANI

3. Government of India’s premier publishing house Publications Division (under the Ministry of
Information & Broadcasting) has come out with a new magazine named Yojana Classics.
• It is a collectible series on various thematic areas, crafted from select works published since
1957 in Yojana, the popular development monthly published by Publications Division.
• The book will be available soon at Publications Division Book Gallery, Soochna Bhawan
and website www.publicationsdivision.nic.in.
• The book was unveiled during the 27th edition of the Delhi Book Fair, which is being
organized by India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO) in association with Federation
of Indian Publishers (FIP) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from 29th July to 2nd August
2023.
• Other popular and widely circulated journals of Publications Division are Yojana,
Kurukshetra, Aajkal and Bal Bharti.
pg. 169
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Source: PIB

4. A partial skeleton of a new whale that has lived nearly 40 million years ago has been
discovered in Peru.
• The whale, known as Perucetus colossus is believed to be heaviest animal ever,
according to a study published in the journal Nature.
• Currently, blue whale is the largest and heaviest animal known.
Source: TG
5. A Lunar Codex programme to send a collection of varied digitised art to the moon as a lasting
record of human creativity is being taken up.
• Lunar Codex is stored on memory cards or laser etched on NanoFiche, a 21st-century
update on film-based microfiche.
• The program is being spearheaded by Samuel Peralta.
Source: TG

6. Namdeo Dhondo Mahanor, renowned Marathi poet and lyricist, popularly known as Na Dho
Mahanora has passed away.
• He was awarded Padma Shri in 1991.
Source: HT

7. Arash-Dorra gas field, a resource-rich offshore area is a contested area between Saudi
Arabia, Kuwait and Iran.

Source: ET

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8. The architect of India’s IT sector N Vittal has passed away.

• He was the former Telecom Secretary and Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC).
Source: HBL

9. A global study has suggested that air pollution is contributing to a rise in antibiotic
resistance, posing a significant threat to human health worldwide.
• Particulate matter PM2.5 in the air can contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria and
genes, which might be inhaled by humans, potentially contributing to resistance.
Key findings:
• The study, the first comprehensive global analysis of this connection, suggests that
reducing air pollution could help mitigate antibiotic resistance.
• The research found that antibiotic resistance increases with PM2.5 air pollution, with a
10% rise in pollution associated with a 1.1% increase in resistance.
• A modelling scenario suggests that without changes to current air pollution policies,
antibiotic resistance could rise by 17% by 2050, resulting in around 840,000 annual
premature deaths attributed to resistance.
Source: IE

10. William Friedkin, Oscar winning American director has passed away.
• Famous movies- “The Exorcist" and "The French Connection"
Source: LM

11. Haryana government is planning to build a dam 4.5 km upstream from the Hathnikund
Barrage in Yamunanagar district.
• The decision has been taken after Yamuna flooded parts in Delhi last month.
• The dam will be built at a cost of Rs 6,134 crore
• A part of Kalesar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, in Haryana will be submerged
due to the construction.
Source: IE

12. Indian Central government has informed the Karnataka High Court that it will investigate the
matter of the ‘Havana Syndrome’ in India, in response to a petition from a Bengaluru resident.

pg. 171
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• Havana Syndrome refers to a set of mental health symptoms including - hearing certain
sounds without any outside noise, nausea and headaches, memory loss and balance
issues.
• The causes behind Havana Syndrome were not entirely certain but speculated to be “sonic
attacks”.
• Some US based studies suggest the victims may have been subjected to high-powered
microwaves that damaged/interfered with the nervous system.
• Beams of high-powered microwaves may have been sent through a special gadget -
a “microwave weapon”, however there is no conclusive evidence of their existence.
Source: IE

13. Abhay Kumar, Deputy Director General of Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) has
launched his new book titled “Monsoon: A Poem of Love and Longing” at Kathika Culture
Centre in Delhi.
• The book was published by Sahitya Akademi on the occasion of its 68th anniversary.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ICCR
• It is an autonomous organisation of the Government of India, involved in India's global
cultural relations, through cultural exchange with other countries and their people.
• It was founded on 9 April 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education Minister
of independent India.

14. Polali Jayarama Bhat, the former Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
Karnataka Bank has passed away.
Source: HBL

15. Padma Awardee and renowned nuclear physicist Bikash Chandra Sinha has passed away.
Awards and accolades
• Recipient of Padma Shri in 2001 and Padma Bhushan in 2010 in the Science &
Engineering field.
• Recipient of the S.N. Bose Birth Centenary Award of the Indian Science Congress
Association in 1994.
• He has received West Bengal’s highest state award ‘Bangabibhushan’ (2022).

pg. 172
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• He also won Humboldt Research Award by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation,
Germany and Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Lecture Award from The National Academy of
Sciences, India.
• Books: He has authored a book titled ‘Sristi O Krishti Bandhanhin Granthi’ in Bengali.
Source: ToI

16. A devastating wildfire has swept through Maui, Hawaii, leading to destruction, fatalities, and
evacuations.
• Maui is an island in the Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian archipelago. The Hawaiian
Islands are an archipelago of eight major volcanic islands, several atolls, and numerous
smaller islets in the North Pacific Ocean.
Source: IE

17. A Chinese naval vessel named ‘Hai Yang 24 Hao’ has visited the Colombo Port, Sri Lanka.
• Previously, in May 2023 Indian Navy Ship 'Batti Malv' visited Sri Lanka's Trincomalee port
and participated in Maritime Partnership Exercise with SLNS Ranadheera.
Source: BS
Pics
18. India is the largest source of Human Hair (raw material) in the world: Minister of State for
Commerce and Industry.
• The country had exported 169.23 million dollars in value of Human Hair during last fiscal.
Source: NoA

19. Former president of the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR)
Prof MR Satyanaryana Rao has passed away.
• He won the Padma Shri in 2010.
• He was the Chairman of the Department of Biochemistry and the Centre for Genetic
Engineering at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
Source: ToI

20. 'Champaran Mutton' has made it to the semi-finals of the Student Academy Award.
• The film has been selected in the semi-final round of Oscar's Student Academy Award 2023.
• The award is given to students studying filmmaking, university training institutes and
universities, it is a branch of the Oscars. Since 1972, this award is being given to good films.
pg. 173
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• The film 'Champaran Mutton' is directed by Ranjan Kumar of Film and Television Institute of
India, Pune.
Source: IT

21. Former India captain and legendary footballer Mohammed Habib has passed away.
• Habib represented India for a decade from 1965-75 and was part of the team that won a
bronze medal in the 1970 Asian Games in Bangkok.
• He represented the country in 35 international matches and scored 11 goals.
Source: IT

22. Renowned social activist and founder of Sulabh International, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak has
passed away.
• Sulabh International is an India-based organization that promotes human rights and
environmental sanitation.
• He was conferred the Padma Bhushan in 1991.
• In 2009, he received the Stockholm Water Prize.
• He was also awarded the Nikkei Asia Prize, 2018 for Culture and Community.
Source: LM

23. England pacer Steven Finn has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
Source: NoA

24. Former Chairman of Defence Research Development Organisation, V.S. Arunachalam has
passed away.
• He had received the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award (1980), the Padma Bhushan
(1985), and the Padma Vibhushan (1990). He was also the first Indian Fellow of the Royal
Academy of Engineering (UK).
• In 2015, Arunachalam was awarded DRDO’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his
outstanding contribution to the field of scientific research and technology.
Source: IE

25. Australian Olympic swimming gold medallist John Devitt, has passed away.
• He had won gold medals at the 1956 Melbourne and 1960 Rome Olympics and set four
individual world records in swimming for Australia.
pg. 174
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Source: ESPN

26. A lotus variety named ‘Namoh 108’ was unveiled in CSIR - National Botanical Research
Institute, Lucknow under One Week One Lab (OWOL) initiative of the CSIR.
• The variety was discovered several years ago in Manipur and is the only lotus variety in
India to have had its genome sequenced.
• To promote its cultivation in other parts of the country Lotus Mission was also launched as
part of horticulture mission.
• Under OWOL, every lab would showcase its history and scientific achievements for a week.
Source: ET

27. Scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru, Karnataka have
discovered a unique star named “HE 1005-1439”.
• The star defies the conventional classification of stars and stands out as a carbon
enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) star, a rare class of chemically peculiar stars.
• IIA is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
Source: ET

28. School textbooks named “Kuwi Primer” and “Desia Primer” have been launched in Kuwi
and Desia languages at an event held in Bhubaneswar (Odisha) to simplify primary education
for tribal children in Odisha.
• The launch is a collaborative effort of Central University of Odisha, Koraput, Department of
Posts, and National Council of Educational Research and Training.
Source: FE

29. Ron Cephas Jones, a renowned American actor who has won Emmy Award twice, has
passed away.
Source: ET

30. China has launched a new Earth observation satellite, named Gaofen-12 (04), atop a Long
March-4C carrier rocket, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China.
Source: space

pg. 175
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31. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for the vaccine Abrysvo,
designed to protect infants from birth to 6 months of age for use in women during pregnancy.
• Purpose- To protect against lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) and severe LRTD
caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a highly contagious virus that causes respiratory
infections across age groups. Infants are particularly susceptible to severe respiratory
illness caused by RSV, often requiring hospitalization
Source: FDA

32. Goa Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai has launched his recently authored three new books
namely ‘Heritage Trees of Goa’, ‘When Parallel Lines Meet’, and ‘Ente Priya Kavithakal’.
Source: HT

33. Jayanta Mahapatra, an Eminent Indian English poet and Litterateur, who was the first
recipient of Sahitya Akademi award for English poetry (1981) has passed away.
• He received the Sahitya Akademi Awards in 1981 for Relationship (poetry), the first Akademi
Award for English poetry.
• Government of India honoured him with Padma Shri in 2009 for Literature and Education.
• He won the prestigious SAARC (South Asian Association Regional Cooperation) literary
Award for the year 2009.
Source: TH

QUESTIONS
Q.1) Semiconductors are materials with electrical
conductivity between that of insulators and
conductors. They play a pivotal role in modern
electronics by enabling the control and
manipulation of electrical signals. Over the years,
India has emerged as a significant player in
semiconductor design, manufacturing, and
research. Semicon India showcases the nation's
strides in producing cutting-edge technologies
and contributing to the global semiconductor
landscape. This year, the event was organized in
Gandhinagar, Gujarat on the theme of _____.
This conference will further the remarkable
progress made in Indian semiconductor design
and manufacturing, reflecting a clear vision —
nurturing a thriving domestic ecosystem to ensure
self-sufficiency and make India a key player in the
global semiconductor value chain.
[A] Fostering Growth in India's Semiconductor
Industry
[B] Nurturing the Semiconductor Ecosystem in
India
[C] Advancing India's Semiconductor Landscape
[D] Catalyzing India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem
[E] Empowering the Semiconductor Revolution in
India
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Q.2) The UNFPA has launched an AI chatbot
called 'Just Ask!' in India to provide sexual and
reproductive health information to adolescents
and young adults. The project receives funding
support from Bayer, an international
pharmaceutical company, as part of their joint
effort to enhance awareness about these health
rights among the youth in India. Identify the
correct statement with regards to the organizers
of the initiative.
[A] UNFPA, in collaboration with the National
Health Mission (NHM) and the Department of
Public Health and Family Welfare, Government of
Madhya Pradesh, India organized it
[B] UNFPA, in collaboration with the National
Health Mission (NHM) and the Department of
Public Health and Family Welfare, Government of
Telangana, India organized it
[C] UNFPA, in collaboration with the National
Rural Health Mission (NHM) and the Department
of Public Health and Family Welfare, Government
of Madhya Pradesh, India organized it
[D] UNFPA, in collaboration with the National
Health Mission (NHM) and the Department of
Health and Education, Government of Madhya
Pradesh, India organized it
[E] UNFPA, in collaboration with the National
Health Mission (NHM) and the Department of
Information and Communication Technology,
Government of Madhya Pradesh, India organized
it
Q.3) The Multi-State Cooperative Societies
(Amendment) Bill, 2023 provides for the
establishment of a Co-operative Rehabilitation,
Reconstruction and Development Fund for
reviving the sick cooperatives. Which of the
following would be the likely drawback of
establishing this fund?
[A] This could compromise their fundamental
principle of democratic decision-making and
autonomous functioning
[B] This poses a complex challenge in balancing
control mechanisms with the ethos of cooperative
empowerment scenarios
[C] This fund will effectively impose a cost on
well-functioning multi-cooperative societies, which
will impact their functioning
[D] This could lead to the centralization of power
and resources within the larger entity
[E] This might favor the interests of the dominant
multi-state co-operative, potentially overlooking
the unique needs and concerns of the merging
state-level societies
Q.4) Gujjars and Bakerwals are the dominant ST
communities in which of the following state/UT?
[A] J&K
[B] Andaman and Nicobar
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Manipur
[E] Nagaland
Q.5) Defence exercises hold immense importance
as they allow armed forces to enhance their
readiness and coordination in simulated real-
world scenarios. These exercises provide
valuable opportunities to test and refine strategic
plans, communication systems, and tactical
maneuvers, ensuring seamless interoperability
among different branches and even allied nations.
Therefore, various nations conduct bilateral,
trilateral, and multilateral defence exercises in
different modes. One such exercise is “Falcon
Shield” air defence exercise, which was
conducted by two Asian nations. Identify the
countries.
[A] China and UAE
[B] France and India
[C] Sweden and Philippines
[D] Norway and South Korea
[E] Germany and Turkey
Q.6) Power Finance Corporation has become first
member from India to join “Asia Transition
Finance Study Group” (ATFSG) on the side lines
of G20 summit at Goa. ATFSG is an initiative by
Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and
Industry (METI) for promoting sustainable
transition finance for Asian Countries. Which of
the following correctly states the meaning of
Transition Finance?
[A] It examines psychological biases and
emotional factors that influence financial
decisions
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[Type here]
[B] It focuses on providing financial services to
low-income individuals and communities who may
not have access to traditional banking
[C] It involves investing in private companies at
various stages of growth, aiming to provide
funding and expertise in exchange for ownership
stakes
[D] It involves financing private investments to
reduce high greenhouse gas emissions or other
environmental impacts and transition to a climate
neutral and sustainable economy
[E] It encompasses various investment vehicles
like stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities,
as well as portfolio management and asset
allocation strategies
Q.7) Mumbai-based Fino Payments Bank
approved the proposal for the transition of the
bank into a Small Finance Bank (SFB) license.
Identify the correct statement with regards to the
eligibility criteria of converting a Payment Bank
into an SFB.
1) Minimum Net Worth Requirement – Rs 500
crore
2) Experience - 5 years of operations
3) Capital to Risk-Weighted Total Asset ratio
(CRAR) - 15%
[A] Only 1 and 3
[B] Only 1, 2, and 3
[C] Only 1
[D] Only 2
[E] Only 3
Q.8) Which company has developed a first-of-its-
kind portable device called Pocket Soundbox,
which can fit in your pocket and is as small as a
debit card and empowers merchants who are
always on the move with instant audio payment
alerts?
[A] Mobikwik
[B] Paytm
[C] Razorpay
[D] PayU
[E] Infibeam
Q.9) Which state produces Koftgari Metal Craft?
[A] Telangana
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Gujarat
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[E] Maharashtra
Q.10) Indian women's hockey team won the title
of Torneo del Centernario 2023 by defeating
hosts Spain (by 3-0 score) in Terrassa,
Barcelona. It was the 100th Anniversary of the
Spanish Hockey Federation International
Tournament 2023. Next, Indian women’s hockey
team will participate in the Asian Games 2023 in
Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October
8. Who is the captain of India’s women hockey
team?
[A] Rani Rampal
[B] Gurjit Kaur
[C] Navneet Kaur
[D] Savita Punia
[E] Nikki Pradhan
Q.11) In the recently held 50th meeting of the
Executive Committee of the National Mission for
Clean Ganga, seven projects worth around Rs.
692 crores have been approved which includes
project related to sewage management in Uttar
Pradesh and Bihar. In which year was the mission
established?
[A] 2011
[B] 2018
[C] 2014
[D] 2015
[E] 2012
Q.12) Directorate General of Training under the
Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has partnered with a
cloud computing platform to upskill students. The
platform will upskill students in cloud computing,
data annotation, artificial intelligence (AI), and
machine learning (ML), to boost their capabilities
and employability. DGT has been implementing
long-term institutional skill training in the country
through its network of about 15,000 Industrial
Training Institutes (ITIs) and 33 National Skill
Training Institutes (NSTIs). Name the platform.
[A] CloudLinux
[B] Google Cloud
[C] IBM Cloud
[D] Amazon web services
[E] Microsoft Azure
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Q.13) As a mark of protest against China’s
decision to issue stapled visas instead of
stamped ones to three athletes from Arunachal
Pradesh, India has withdrawn its entire ____
team from the World University Games scheduled
to take place in Chengdu. What sport were these
athletes representing?
[A] Judo
[B] Gymnastics
[C] Fencing
[D] Wushu
[E] Taekwondo
Q.14) Finland has planned to buy "David's Sling"
anti-missile defence system which is capable of
intercepting missiles fired towards it. An anti-
missile defence system seeks to defend a given
area from attack by locating and tracking an
incoming missile and then launching an
interceptor to destroy the missile before it can
reach its target. The above anti-missile defence
system belongs to which country?
[A] China
[B] Israel
[C] Russia
[D] France
[E] USA
Q.15) Human wants to leave the imprint of his
creativity wherever it is possible. To carry forward
this idea, a programme to send a collection of
varied digitised art to the moon as a lasting record
of human creativity is being taken up. The art will
be stored on memory cards or laser etched on
NanoFiche, a 21st-century update on film-based
microfiche. Name the programme.
[A] Lunar Codex
[B] Lunar Manual
[C] Celestial treatise
[D] Lunatic Lexicon
[E] Lunar Atlas
Q.16) According to the recently released report
on Global tobacco epidemic 2023 by WHO, India
has the highest level of achievement with regards
to putting health warning labels on tobacco
products and providing tobacco dependence
treatment. The success can be attributed to the
National Health Policy of India which targets to
reduce tobacco use by 30% by 2025. In which
year the policy was introduced?
[A] 2016
[B] 2017
[C] 2018
[D] 2015
[E] 2019
Q.17) Government has recently asked the
Pharma companies to adopt good manufacturing
practices (GMP) to ensure manufacturing of
quality drugs. These mandatory standards bring
quality into the product by way of control of
materials, methods, machine, and processes.
However very few Indian companies follow the
GMP. In India, schedule M of the Drugs and
Cosmetics Act, 1940, deals with GMP. In which
year were these practices first incorporated
in Schedule M?
[A] 1984
[B] 1990
[C] 1998
[D] 1988
[E] 1985
Q.18) Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) has
transformed industry incubators into co-working
space called 'LEAP Coworks’. KSUM is Kerala
government's nodal agency for entrepreneurship
development and incubation activities in the state.
LEAP, which is short for_______, Empower,
Accelerate, Prosper aims to empower startups
and foster their culture of innovation. Fill the gap.
[A] Learn
[B] Label
[C] Launch
[D] Level
[E] Lead
Q.19) A fintech company has launched RuPay
credit card-based UPI payments in collaboration
with the National Payments Corporation of India
(NPCI). This launch will empower members to
utilise their RuPay credit cards for making
payments via UPI. The users can pay businesses
or merchants by scanning any UPI QR code,
using their RuPay credit card linked to their UPI.
Name the company.
pg. 3
[Type here]
[A] CRED
[B] Zest
[C] RazorPay
[D] Zerodha
[E] Upstox
Q.20) Russia has planned to conduct “Ocean
Shield-2023” naval exercise to assess the
Russian Navy's readiness to defend the country's
interests in a critical area, as well as the
coordination of the various military forces. This
exercise is announced few days after Russia has
withdrawn from the Black Sea Grain initiative.
Where will this exercise be conducted?
[A] Baltic Sea
[B] Black Sea
[C] Caspian Sea
[D] White Sea
[E] Aegean Sea
Q.21) Indian government has imposed immediate
restrictions on importing laptops, tablets, and
personal computers falling under HSN 8741
category. One of the major reasons has been to
promote domestic manufacturing of these
products. The new restrictions on computer
imports are part of the Production Linked
Incentive (PLI) scheme that was launched by the
government in 2020 to boost domestic
manufacturing and exports of electronics. What is
the outlay of PLI schemes for 14 key sectors as
announced in Union Budget 2021-22?
[A] INR 1.97 lakh crores
[B] INR 1.50 lakh crores
[C] INR 1.20 lakh crores
[D] INR 2.00 lakh crores
[E] INR 1.85 lakh crores
Q.22) The Cabinet Secretary is the top-most
executive official and senior-most civil servant of
the Government of India. Recently, appointments
committee of the cabinet (ACC) has approved
extension in service to Rajiv Gauba for a further
period of 1 year, which will make him as the
longest serving Cabinet secretary. What can be
the maximum term of a cabinet secretary?
[A] 3 years
[B] 6 years
[C] 5 years
[D] 4 years
[E] 7 years
Q.23) Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand has
been India’s top-ranked chess player in the live
world rankings for last many years. Recently he
has been dethroned by a 17-year-old player who
defeated Mistradin Iskandarov in the second
round of the FIDE World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The player has climbed to the 9th position in the
classic open category. Name the player.
[A] Dommaraju Gukesh
[B] Arjun Erigaisi
[C] Pentala Harikrishna
[D] Praggnanandhaa R
[E] Vidit Santosh Gujrathi
Q.24) Over the decades, the ecological and
carbon footprint of humans has gradually
increased, all while Earth’s biocapacity, i.e., its
ability to regenerate resources has diminished
significantly. That has led to Earth Overshoot Day
arriving earlier and earlier, moving from
December 30 in 1970 to August 2 this year.
Which organisation calculates this?
[A] Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC)
[B] Global Footprint Network
[C] Greenpeace
[D] World Wide Fund
[E] United Nations Environment Programme
Q.25) Which state government has launched the
Department of Forest & Environment’s ‘Amrit
Brikshya Andolan’ web portal and mobile to make
a significant impact on the State’s green economy
by planting a total of 1 crore commercially-viable
saplings across the State?
[A] Assam
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Himachal Pradesh
[E] Arunachal Pradesh
Q.26) India’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
for services has reached an impressive 13-year
high of 62.3 in July after a 3-month low in June.
This survey is compiled by which of the following?
[A] Forbes
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[B] Venture
[C] S&P Global
[D] CRISIL
[E] Fitch India
Q.27) National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)
has launched a new app to improve user
experience on highways and create a ‘citizen-
centric unified mobile application’. The app will
contain essential highway information, complaint
redressal, FASTag services along with safe
driving features. What is the name of the app?
[A] NHAI One
[B] Sukhad Yatra
[C] NHAI Act
[D] Rajmarg Yatra
[E] NHAI Help
Q.28) Government has introduced a new
category of Ayush visa for foreign nationals to
give a major boost to Medical Value Travel in
India. According to the report ‘The Global
Wellness Economy: Looking beyond COVID’ by
the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the Global
Wellness economy will grow at 9.9% annually.
What is the estimated value by which the Ayush
based healthcare & wellness economy will grow
by 2025?
[A] USD 120 billion
[B] USD 90 billion
[C] USD 70 billion
[D] USD 100 billion
[e USD 50 billion
Q.29) Lithium-ion batteries have changed the way
products are designed in modern times. These
new age batteries are opening up new
possibilities for mobile phones and laptops,
electronic gadgets, automobiles, and energy
storage. Realizing its importance, a state
government has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with US based International to set
up ₹8,000 crore recyclable Lithium-ion battery
unit in the state. Identify the state.
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Gujarat
[D] Maharashtra
[E] Telangana
Q.30) ‘Vivad se Vishwas II’ scheme, announced
in the Union Budget 2023-24,
has recently been launched. This is a voluntary
settlement scheme to resolve long-standing
contractual disputes involving government
agencies and is specifically designed for disputes
where the Arbitral Award is under challenge in a
court. Name the ministry which has launched the
scheme.
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[C] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[D] Ministry of Home Affairs
[E] Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation
Q.31) The "Study in India" program is an initiative
launched by the Government of India to promote
higher education opportunities for international
students in India. The program aims to position
India as a preferred destination for foreign
students seeking quality education and cultural
experiences. To provide ease to all stakeholders,
Study in India portal has been launched. The
portal provides information about the Higher
Educational Institutions, which fulfills the following
criteria:
1) NIRF ranking (<=100)
2) NAAC accreditation score (>=3.01)
3) FT B-School Rankings score (>=100)
4) Status of Institutes of National Importance
[A] Only 1, 2, and 4
[B] Only 2 and 3
[C] Only 1
[D] Only 1 and 4
[E] Only 1 and 2
Q.32) Recently, Union Ministry of Education has
chosen ______ to modernise and upgrade its
_____ platform to provide educational resources
to millions of additional students, teachers and
collaborators across India. This platform was
launched in 2017 for providing quality e-content
for school education in States/UTs and QR coded
Energized Textbooks for all grades (one nation,
one digital platform). The platform currently
supports 1.48 million schools across all of India’s
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35 states and Union Territories and is available in
36 Indian languages.
[A] IBM and Yukti
[B] Tata Consultancy Services and SPARC
[C] HCL Technologies and ShaGun
[D] Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and Diksha
[E] Tech Mahindra and Kartavya
Q.33) Consider the following statements:
1) Project Tiger has completed 50 years in 2022
2) Project Elephant has increased the number of
elephant reserves to 23
3) Project Tiger and Project Elephant have been
disintegrated
4) Project Tiger helped India to account for more
than 70% of the world’s wild tigers
Which of the above-mentioned statement(s) is/are
incorrect?
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 1 and 2
[C] Only 1, 2, and 3
[D] Only 4
[E] Only 1 and 4
Q.34) Rajya Sabha has passed the Anusandhan
National Research Foundation Bill, 2023 to
replace the Science and Engineering Research
Board Act, 2008. Considering this, identify the
incorrect statement(s) with regards to the Bill.
[A] NRF will provide strategic direction for
research, innovation, and entrepreneurship only
in the fields of genetic sciences, agricultural
innovation, quantum computing, semiconductors,
and information technology
[B] NRF will receive funding from donations to the
fund
[C] NRF will have a Governing Board headed by
the Prime Minister of India
[D] The President of the Board may appoint or
nominate additional members to the Board
[E] The Foundation will have an Executive
Council to undertake implementation, which will
be chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to
the Government of India
Q.35) India's presidency of the G20 provides an
opportunity to shape global economic priorities
and foster inclusive growth through collaborative
policymaking. During its term, India can lead
discussions on sustainable development, digital
transformation, and resilient recovery post-
pandemic. In this direction only, the Sahitya
Akademi will publish an anthology of poems with
contributions from each of the G-20 nations to
commemorate India’s presidency of the grouping.
What is the name of the anthology and the
author?
[A] Under the Same Sky and Ranjit Hoskote
[B] Beneath One Sky and Anurag Anand
[C] Together Under the Sky and Kunal Basu
[D] Unified Under the Heavens and Abhijit
Bhaduri
[E] Earth's Common Canopy and Mannu
Bhandari
Q.36) Which South Asian country has sought
assistance from India for establishing its Unique
Digital Identity Project? The project will
revolutionize the country's administrative
infrastructure and pave the way for more
streamlined and efficient service delivery to its
citizens.
[A] Maldives
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Nepal
[D] Bhutan
[E] Sri Lanka
Q.37) Microprocessors have revolutionized
industries, driving automation, efficiency, and
innovation, thereby boosting productivity and
economic growth. In India, the RISC-V project
began in 2010 to enable a new era of processor
innovation through open standard collaboration
and deliver a new level of free, extensible
software and hardware freedom on architecture,
paving the way for the next 50 years of computing
design and innovation. An Indian Institute of
Technology has launched India’s first
indigenously designed microprocessor based on
RISC-V ISA. Identify the institute and the name of
the microprocessor.
[A] IIT-Kharagpur and Prajaval microprocessor
[B] IIT-Delhi and Pragyan microprocessor
[C] IIT-Ropar and PARAM Siddh microprocessor
[D] IIT-Roorkee and Mihir microprocessor
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[E] IIT-Madras and Shakti microprocessor
Q.38) ___ has launched the 'Athidhi portal', a
user-friendly web portal to expedite the
registration process for migrant workers in the
state and introduce a unique identification system
for them?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Kerala
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Odisha
[E] Andhra Pradesh
Q.39) Consider the following statements:
1) WHO road map for neglected tropical diseases
sets the target of eliminating NTDs in 100
countries by 2030
2) The 2021–2030 WHO neglected tropical
disease road map targets the prevention, control
elimination and eradication of 20 diseases and
disease groups by 2030
3) WHO recommends the SAFE strategy- a
comprehensive approach to reduce transmission
of the causative organism, clear existing
infections and deal with the effects of Trachoma
4) SAFE strategy is being implemented by WHO,
in collaboration with Pfizer
Which of the above-mentioned statement(s) is/are
correct?
[A] Only 1
[B] Only 3 and 4
[C] Only 2 and 4
[D] Only 1, 2, 3 and 4
[E] Only 2, 3 and 4
Q.40) Lake Tana holds significant cultural and
ecological importance, as it is the source of the
Blue Nile River and hosts ancient monasteries
and churches on its islands, attracting both
religious pilgrims and tourists. In which country is
the lake located in?
[A] Mauritania
[B] Ethiopia
[C] Niger
[D] Egypt
[E] Djibouti
Q.41) In August 2023, SEBI and Association of
Portfolio Managers in India (APMI) announced to
jointly set standards for performance audit of
portfolio management services (PMS) companies.
PMS players are required to conduct a
performance audit annually and submit a report
within 60 days after the end of a financial year.
This performance audit needs to consider all
clients' portfolios managed by the PMS. However,
performance of advisory clients can be excluded
only if it is not published in any marketing material
or website. What is the implementation date of
the standards?
[A] September 1, 2023
[B] October 1, 2023
[C] June 1, 2024
[D] January 1, 2024
[E] April 1, 2024
Q.42) The non-linked and non-participating
product- Guarantee of Life Dreams (G.O.L.D.)
Plan offers policyholders regular long-term
income. The premium paying terms range
between 6, 8, and 10 years for policy terms of 30
years and 40 years. The starting premium is as
low as ₹4,176 per month and offers the choice to
pay annually or in instalments. The plan offers
three income options: immediate, intermediate
and deferred. Which company has launched the
plan?
[A] Max Life Insurance Company
[B] IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company
[C] Bharti AXA General Insurance
[D] ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company
[E] TATA AIA Life Insurance Company
Q.43) Identify the correct statement from the
options given below.
[A] The Maharatna status is given to companies
which have recorded average annual turnover of
more than Rs. 25,000 crores during the last 3
years
[B] A composite score of 60 or above in the
following three categories Net Profit to Net Worth,
PBIT to turnover, Earning Per share is enough for
the grant of Navratna status
[C] Department of Public Enterprises confers
Maharatna and Miniratna Status. Respective
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Ministries of the CPSEs confer the status of
Navratna status
[D] For upgradation in the Miniratna Category-I
status, pre-tax profit is Rs.80 crores or more in at
least one of the three years
[E] For the grant of the Navratna status, a
Miniratna company should have an average
annual net profit after tax of more than Rs. 1,000
crores
Q.44) NMDC Ltd has unveiled its new logo. The
new logo is a manifestation of NMDC’s vision of
NMDC 2.0. This logo communicates the
responsibilities of NMDC towards mining in
harmony with nature and people, towards
ensuring mineral security & building mineral
accountability, and towards infusing self-reliance
in our sector. NMDC is a major contributor in the
National Steel Policy of 2017, which aims to
__________________?
[A] Increase domestic availability of washed
coking coal to reduce import dependence on
coking coal from ~85% to ~65% by 2024-25
[B] Increase per Capita Steel Consumption to 160
Kgs by 2030-31
[C] Increase crude steel capacity of 800 MT
[D] Increase production of finished steel to 755
MT
[E] Increase finished steel per capita consumption
of 108 Kgs by 2030-31
Q.45) What is India’s per capita GDP forecast by
S&P Global Ratings (by FY31)?
[A] $2,100
[B] $6,300
[C] $7,800
[D] $4,500
[E] $1,800
Q.46) Which is the world’s most profitable
company in 2022?
[A] Walmart
[B] Amazon
[C] Saudi Aramco
[D] Exxon Mobil
[E] Apple
Q.47) The Asian Champions Trophy in football
stands as a pivotal event in the sports calendar,
uniting elite teams from Asia and underscoring
the significance of regional competition. This
tournament not only crowns the continent's
football champion but also emphasizes the role of
sports in fostering camaraderie, healthy rivalry,
and athletic excellence among diverse nations. In
2023, the Asian Champions Trophy was
organized by India in _____?
[A] Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium
[B] M. A. Chidambaram Stadium
[C] M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
[D] Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium
[E] DY Patil Stadium
Q.48) The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) is
the governing body for football in India,
responsible for organizing and promoting the
sport at various levels, contributing to the
development of Indian football talent and fostering
its growth on the national and international
stages. Recently, it has partnered with Subroto
Mukerjee Sports Education Society (SMSES) to
promote football at grass root level. Who is the
President of AIFF?
[A] Kalyan Chaubey
[B] Sanjay Mehrotra
[C] Reshma Kewalramani
[D] Laxman Narasimhan
[E] Arvind Krishna
Q.49) National Health Authority (NHA) has
announced the extension of its Digital Health
Incentives Scheme (DHIS) under the Ayushman
Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) till 31st December
2023. Under DHIS, incentives are provided to
hospitals and diagnostic labs and to the providers
of digital health solutions such as Hospital/ Health
Management Information System (HMIS) and
Laboratory Management Information System
(LMIS) for adopting and enabling transformative
digitization under ABDM. The DHIS was launched
with effect from 1st January 2023 as part of the
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. How much
financial incentive is given under the DHIS?
[A] Rs 1 crore
[B] Rs 10 crore
[C] Rs 25 crore
[D] Rs 4 crore
[E] Rs 15 crore
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Q.50) International Union for Conservation of
Nature’s Species Survival Commission (SSC) and
the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) have partnered to
establish the Center for Species Survival (CSS)
for South Asia in India. This will be the
_____Centre for Species Survival in the world
and the first of its kind in South Asia.
[A] 5th
[B] 10th
[C] 2nd
[D] 3rd
[E] 8th
Q.51) Central government has recently launched
a portal to facilitate fast transfer of mortal remains
of Indian nationals who die abroad. A nodal
officer from Airport Health Organization will
monitor it 24x7 and scrutinize and give fast track
approvals.
The portal will have two provisions- one for
bringing dead bodies from aboard and other to
bring mortal remains. Name the portal.
[A] e- CARe
[B] e- SHAANTi
[C] e- MEMORY
[D] e-SHAKTI
[E] e-HOME
Q.52) Integrated theatre commands combine the
resources of all three services (the Army, Navy,
and Air Force) under a single commander to
secure a particular geographic area. There are
theatre commands in several countries, including
China and the United States. India is likely to get
its 1st Integrated theatre command in August.
Which committee recommended the creation of 3
integrated theatre commands in India?
[A] Shekatkar Committee
[B] Jankiramanan Committee
[C] Kothari Commission
[D] Mahajan Committee
[E] Khusro Committee
Q.53) ISRO has transferred the IMS-1 Satellite
Bus Technology to M/S Alpha Design
Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (ADTL), promoting private
industry participation in India’s space sector. The
transfer marks the first instance of ISRO’s satellite
bus technologies being shared with private
companies. NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) has
facilitated the technology transfer. This satellite
bus will enable low-cost access to space and
serve as a dedicated vehicle for payloads up
to___ kg.
[A] 30
[B] 100
[C] 150
[D] 50
[E] 90
Q.54) SEBI has announced the establishment of
a Common online dispute resolution (ODR) portal
to streamline the existing dispute resolution
mechanism by establishing a less time-
consuming common ODR portal. The current
grievance redressal mechanism will be integrated
with ODR mechanism to ensure that
complainants unsatisfied with the previous portal
can approach ODR. What is the name of existing
redressal mechanism?
[A] NIVARAN
[B] SCORES
[C] SUVIDHA
[D] CPGRAMS
[E] REDRESS
Q.55) Sashidhar Jagdishan has emerged as the
highest-paid bank chief executive in financial year
2022-23. With an overall package of Rs. 10.55
crore, Jagdishan's compensation stands out
among his peers in the banking sector. Which
bank is he associated with?
[A] HDFC Bank
[B] ICICI Bank
[C] Axis Bank
[D] Federal Bank
[E] IDBI Bank
Q.56) National Handloom Day is celebrated every
year on 7th of August to generate awareness
about the importance of the handloom industry
and to recognise the efforts as well as skills of the
community of weavers engaged in the sector.
This theme for this year was "Handlooms for
Sustainable Fashion". Which edition of the day
was celebrated this year?
[A] 7th
pg. 9
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[B] 9th
[C] 10th
[D] 15th
[E] 5th
Q.57) HS Prannoy has won silver medal in Men’s
singles finals in Australian Open Super 500
badminton tournament. Who won the gold medal?
[A] Gong Zhichao
[B] Fu Haifeng
[C] Li Xuerui
[D] Weng Hong Yang
[E] Xie Xingfang
Q.58) Prime Minister has recently laid the
foundation stone for the rejuvenation of 13 railway
stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
(ABSS) in Karnataka. This is part of the all-India
launch of laying foundation stone for work on 508
stations in various States with an investment of
₹25,000 crore. When was the scheme launched?
[A] 2021
[B] 2018
[C] 2023
[D] 2022
[E] 2020
Q.59) Central Board of Indirect Taxes and
Customs (CBIC), a statutory body established
under the Central Boards of Revenue Act, 1963 is
a part of the Department of Revenue under the
Ministry of Finance. The body deals with the tasks
of formulation of policy concerning levy and
collection of various indirect taxes. Recently, a
new chairman has been appointed to CBIC.
Name him.
[A] Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
[B] Surjit Bhujabal
[C] Rajeesh Prakash
[D] Ajit Kumar
[E] Vivek Johri
Q.60) Ministry of Railways and IIT Madras has
signed a memorandum of understanding ((MoU)
to establish the India 5G testbed which will
accelerate the indigenisation efforts of Indian
railways in the field of communications and create
a testing facility for Indian railways. Where will the
test bed be located?
[A] Secunderabad
[B] Nagpur
[C] Lucknow
[D] Varanasi
[E] Bangalore
Q.61) Postal Life Insurance (PLI) has launched a
pilot program for Direct Incentive Disbursement
for sales staff. The program will recognize the role
of PLI’s sales force which is the driving force
behind the department’s accomplishments.
The agents will be able to seamlessly receive the
transfer of their commissions from the previous
month directly to their Post Office Savings Bank
(POSB) Accounts. In which year was Postal Life
Insurance launched?
[A] 1884
[B] 1934
[C] 1960
[D] 1854
[E] 1988
Q.62) Interpol Global Academy Network (IGAN)
launched in 2019, is aimed at supporting
academic collaboration among different law
enforcement training institutions across the world.
CBI Academy has recently become a member of
IGAN. How many members are there in IGAN
now, after India has joined?
[A] 9
[B] 11
[C] 12
[D] 10
[E] 8
Q.63) World Trade Statistical Review (WTSR)
2023 provides a detailed analysis of the latest
developments in world trade. This WTO’s flagship
statistical publication released on an annual basis
provides data on merchandise and services trade,
categorized by geographical origin, product
groups, and sectors. India ranks ___ among the
exporters in world merchandise trade (2022).
[A] 15th
[B] 8th
[C] 12th
[D] 18th
[E] 7th
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Q.64) India's defence ministry has adopted 'Maya'
OS for enhanced cybersecurity. The ministry has
decided to replace the Microsoft Operating
System (OS) on internet-connected computers
with a new OS called Maya, developed locally
based on open-source ______.
Name the open-source.
[A] GIMP
[B] Ubuntu
[C] Moxilla Firefox
[D] Linux
[E] Blender
Q.65) The Quit India Movement, also known as
the August Movement or Bharat Chodo Andolan,
was a significant civil disobedience movement
launched by Mahatma Gandhi on 8th August
1942 with the aim to end British colonial rule in
India and achieve full independence. The year
marks the 81st anniversary of the Quit India
movement. A famous slogan, "Do or Die" was
given by Mahatma Gandhi. Who coined this
term?
[A] Subhash Chandra Bose
[B] Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
[C] Mahatma Gandhi
[D] Yusuf Meherally
[E] Muhammad Iqbal
Q.66) Kuldeep Yadav has become the fastest
Indian to pick 50 wickets in T20 Internationals.
Previously, Yuzvendra Chahal was the fastest
Indian who picked 50 T20I wickets in 34 matches.
Sri Lanka’s Ajantha Mendis holds the record for
picking 50 wickets in 26 T20Is. In how many
matches Kuldeep Yadav has achieved this feat?
[A] 32
[B] 30
[C] 31
[D] 33
[E] 29
Q.67) Mexican state Nuevo Leon has recently
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
for investment in tourism, infrastructure, pharma
and medical sectors with an Indian state
government. Identify the state.
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Uttar Pradesh
[E] Gujarat
Q.68) Haryana government is planning to build a
dam 4.5 km upstream from the _______ Barrage
in Yamunanagar district. The decision has been
taken after Yamuna flooded parts in Delhi last
month. The dam will be built at an estimated at a
cost of Rs 6,134 crore and submerge significant
part of Kalesar National Park and Wildlife
Sanctuary, in Haryana. Name the Barrage.
[A] Tajewala
[B] Dadupur
[C] Hathini kund
[D] Masani
[E] Hamida
Q.69) 31st World University Games were recently
held in Chengdu, China where India has won a
total of 26 medals across 4 disciplines with
highest medal count at the World University
Games. Many of the athletes who won the
Medals come from Khelo India Scheme and
Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Where
will the Next World University Games will be held
in 2025?
[A] Germany
[B] South Africa
[C] Russia
[D] France
[E] Australia
Q.70) Eight South American countries have
joined hands to address the critical issue of
deforestation in the Amazon rainforest at the
Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO)
summit, hosted by Brazil. These forests host
unparalleled biodiversity, harbouring around 10%
of Earth’s known species. It constitutes over half
of the world’s remaining tropical rainforests.
Which of the following country is not a part of
ACTO?
[A] Argentina
[B] Suriname
[C] Brazil
[D] Ecuador
[E] Peru
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Q.71) Name the company that has recently
collaborated with the CSC Academy to provide
digital and financial literacy to the weak and
underprivileged segments of society.
[A] PayU India
[B] Freecharge
[C] Razorpay
[D] Infibeam
[E] PhoneP
Q.72) Which bank has recently partnered with the
Government of Odisha, to support the payment
solutions for the Odisha Tourism Development
Corporation (OTDC) Limited?
[A] RBL Bank
[B] ICICI Bank
[C] YES Bank
[D] Bandhan Bank
[E] HDFC Bank
Q.73) Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand has
been India’s top-ranked chess player in the live
world rankings for last many years. Recently he
has been dethroned by a 17-year-old player who
defeated Mistradin Iskandarov in the second
round of the FIDE World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The player has climbed to the 9th position in the
classic open category. Name the player.
[A] Dommaraju Gukesh
[B] Arjun Erigaisi
[C] Pentala Harikrishna
[D] Praggnanandhaa R
[E] Vidit Santosh Gujrathi
Q.74) Over the decades, the ecological and
carbon footprint of humans has gradually
increased, all while Earth’s biocapacity, i.e., its
ability to regenerate resources has diminished
significantly. That has led to Earth Overshoot Day
arriving earlier and earlier, moving from
December 30 in 1970 to August 2 this year.
Which organisation calculates this?
[A] Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC)
[B] Global Footprint Network
[C] Greenpeace
[D] World Wide Fund
[E] United Nations Environment Programme
Q.75) Which state government has launched the
Department of Forest & Environment’s ‘Amrit
Brikshya Andolan’ web portal and mobile to make
a significant impact on the State’s green economy
by planting a total of 1 crore commercially-viable
saplings across the State?
[A] Assam
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Himachal Pradesh
[E] Arunachal Pradesh
Q.76) India’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
for services has reached an impressive 13-year
high of 62.3 in July after a 3-month low in June.
This survey is compiled by which of the following?
[A] Forbes
[B] Venture
[C] S&P Global
[D] CRISIL
[E] Fitch India
Q.77) National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)
has launched a new app to improve user
experience on highways and create a ‘citizen-
centric unified mobile application’. The app will
contain essential highway information, complaint
redressal, FASTag services along with safe
driving features. What is the name of the app?
[A] NHAI One
[B] Sukhad Yatra
[C] NHAI Act
[D] Rajmarg Yatra
[E] NHAI Help
Q.78) Government has introduced a new
category of Ayush visa for foreign nationals to
give a major boost to Medical Value Travel in
India. According to the report ‘The Global
Wellness Economy: Looking beyond COVID’ by
the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the Global
Wellness economy will grow at 9.9% annually.
What is the estimated value by which the Ayush
based healthcare & wellness economy will grow
by 2025?
[A] USD 120 billion
[B] USD 90 billion
[C] USD 70 billion
[D] USD 100 billion
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[e USD 50 billion
Q.79) Lithium-ion batteries have changed the way
products are designed in modern times. These
new age batteries are opening up new
possibilities for mobile phones and laptops,
electronic gadgets, automobiles, and energy
storage. Realizing its importance, a state
government has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with US based International to set
up ₹8,000 crore recyclable Lithium-ion battery
unit in the state. Identify the state.
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Gujarat
[D] Maharashtra
[E] Telangana
Q.80) ‘Name the company that has recently
signed a MoU with REC Ltd. and Power Finance
Corporation Ltd. (PFC) to receive Rs 9,120 crore
for funding wind, transmission, and advanced
metering projects in India.
[A] Apraava Energy Private Ltd
[B] Suzlon Energy
[C] Hindustan Power Private Ltd
[D] Orient Green Power Ltd
[E] Websol Energy Systems Ltd
Q.81) The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is a
premier scientific organization under the Ministry
of Environment, Forest and Climate Change,
Government of India. It aims to promote the
survey, exploration, research, and documentation
of the fauna of India. The primary objective of ZSI
is to conduct taxonomic, ecological, and
conservation research related to the diverse
animal species found in the country. When was
the organization created?
[A] August 15, 1987
[B] July 1, 1916
[C] June 19, 1978
[D] May 16, 1999
[E] October 10, 1956
Q.82) Recently, the Zoological Survey of India
has celebrated its foundation day. During the 3-
day celebration event, ZSI signed three MOUs.
Two MOUs were signed with IIT Jodhpur and
University of Burdwan, West Bengal. One MOU
was signed with ____, which aims to conduct
population assessment of the Red Panda,
through a non-invasive method, in the other
country.
[A] Bhutan
[B] Maldives
[C] Mexico
[D] Guyana
[E] Suriname
Q.83) PM GatiShakti is India's National Master
Plan aimed at creating a seamless and integrated
multi-modal infrastructure network, enhancing
efficiency in transportation and boosting
economic growth through synchronized
connectivity and logistics. It focuses on optimizing
resource utilization and reducing transportation
costs for sustained development. The plan
consists of a three-tier institutional arrangement,
of which _____ has been given the power to
approve the infrastructure projects, entailing an
investment of over Rs 500 crore?
[A] Network Planning Group
[B] Connectivity Strategy Team
[C] Infrastructure Coordination Unit
[D] Integrated Logistics Consortium
[E] Transportation Optimization Cell
Q.84) International Youth Day, observed on
August 12th, celebrates the potential and vitality
of young people worldwide, highlighting their role
in driving positive social change and fostering
global development through innovation, activism,
and leadership. This day encourages the
recognition and empowerment of youth voices,
addressing their unique challenges and
contributions. What is the theme of this day in
2023?
[A] Empowering Youth for Climate Action:
Nurturing Eco-Leadership
[B] Youth for Biodiversity Conservation:
Guardians of Life
[C] Youth Innovations for Sustainable Futures
[D] Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable
World
[E] Tech-savvy Youth for Eco-friendly Urban
Transport
pg. 13
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Q.85) Ministry of Railways has recently
announced to establish the Pradhan Mantri
Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) at
some of the railway stations. ____ stations have
been identified for the pilot phase. Under this
scheme, PMBJKs would be deemed ‘desirable
passenger amenity’. PMBJKs will be set up and
operated by Licensees at locations identified by
Railway Divisions. Stalls will be provided by E-
auctioning as with respective Railway Divisions
through IREPS. These stalls will be designed by
______.
[A] 100; Arch College of Design & Business
[B] 70; Symbiosis Institute of Design
[C] 50; NID Ahmedabad
[D] 45; MIT Institute of Design
[E] 65; Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and
Technology
Q.86) Who chairs the 19-member committee of
National Council of Educational Research and
Training (NCERT), which has been formed to
formulate new textbooks for Grade 3 to 12, in
conjunction with the National Education Policy
(NEP)? The high-powered committee is named as
“The National Syllabus and Teaching Learning
Material Committee (NSTC)”.
[A] Surya Kumar Rao
[B] M.C. Pant
[C] Tarun Mohan Verma
[D] Balaji Shankar Choudhary
[E] Rajendra Prasad Singh
Q.87) Department for Promotion of Industry and
Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce &
Industry has collaborated with Ministry of Rural
Development for the One District One Product
(ODOP) program. This strategic collaboration was
unveiled with the inauguration of the ODOP Wall
at SARAS Aajeevika Store in New Delhi. SARAS
Aajeevika is an initiative by Deendayal Antyodaya
(DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural Development.
Considering the above paragraph, identify the
incorrect statement with regards to the One
District One Product (ODOP) initiative?
1) It aims to make India and its people self-reliant
by fostering balanced regional development
across all districts of the country
2) It will create special marketplace for well-
crafted products of women artisans and Self-Help
Groups (SHGs)
3) It encompasses various sectors, including
handlooms and handicrafts
[A] Only 1 and 3
[B] Only 2
[C] Only 3
[D] Only 1, 2, and 3
[E] Only 2 and 3
Q.88) The online gaming industry has rapidly
evolved into a global powerhouse, connecting
millions of players worldwide through immersive
experiences and competitive gameplay. Its
continuous growth is driven by technological
advancements, social connectivity, and the allure
of virtual worlds. To regulate the market, Indian
govt has introduced the Central Goods and
Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023. How much
GST has been levied on online gaming platforms,
horse racing clubs and casinos under this bill?
[A] 18%
[B] 28%
[C] 25%
[D] 5%
[E] 10%
Q.89) Port Rashid stands as a symbol of the city's
maritime heritage and modern growth. Located in
a Middle Eastern country, it epitomizes a fusion of
maritime legacy and contemporary progress,
fostering international commerce and travel
through its advanced infrastructure and strategic
importance. Identify the country.
[A] UAE
[B] Saudi Arabia
[C] Oman
[D] Israel
[E] Qatar
Q.90) Biofuels are renewable energy sources
derived from organic materials, such as plants,
algae, or waste biomass. These fuels offer a more
sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels,
as they emit fewer greenhouse gases during
combustion, contributing to reduced carbon
emissions and mitigating climate change. World
pg. 14
[Type here]
Biofuel Day highlights the significance of
sustainable biofuels in promoting energy security
and reducing carbon footprints. This day
underscores the importance of harnessing
organic resources for cleaner and more
sustainable energy solutions When is the Day
observed?
[A] October 11
[B] August 10
[C] September 15
[D] July 18
[E] May 19
Q.91) Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) and its
green hydrogen joint venture (JV) partners viz.
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and ReNew
Power, has announced to invest USD 4 billion in
their green hydrogen businesses over next 3 to 5
years. Green Hydrogen can be produced through
electrolysis of water using renewable electricity,
and from biomass through thermochemical and
biochemical routes. Several entities have
announced plans to setup production facilities for
Green Hydrogen/Green Ammonia in India. How
many million tonnes of green hydrogen does India
aim to produce by 2030?
[A] 5 MMT
[B] 25 MMT
[C] 12 MMT
[D] 8 MMT
[E] 10 MMT
Q.92) From August 11 to 21, the world will
witness a convergence of naval power as India’s
indigenous frontline warships will team up with
counterparts from the US Navy (USN), Japan
Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and the
esteemed Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The
MALABAR series of maritime exercises, which
started in 1992 as a joint venture between the
Indian Navy and the US Navy, has evolved into a
symbol of cooperative maritime security. Name
the Indian warships participating in Malabar 2023.
[A] INS Calcutta and INS Sahyadri
[B] INS Kalvari and INS Sahyadri
[C] INS Calcutta and INS Kalvari
[D] INS Vikrant and INS Calcutta
[E] INS Vikrant and INS Sahyadri
Q.93) The Aspirational Districts programme
(ADP) aims to expeditiously improve the socio-
economic status of 112 districts through
cooperative and competitive federalism. It
focuses on the strengths of each district and
prioritizes the attainable outcomes for immediate
improvement. The objective is to rapidly transform
districts that have shown relatively less progress
in key social areas, and have emerged as
pockets of under-development, thereby posing a
challenge to balanced regional development.
Which district of Haryana has secured 2nd rank in
NITI Aayog’s Delta ranking among ADP?
[A] Nuh
[B] Ambala
[C] Rohtak
[D] Hisar
[E] Karnal
Q.94) Russian space agency Roscosmos has
recently launched the Luna-25 mission from the
Vosthochny cosmodrome atop a Soyuz rocket.
This is Russia’s first lunar landing mission since
1976. The launch comes a month later since India
has launched its third lunar mission
Chandrayaan-3. Who is the project director for
Chandrayaan 3?
[A] S Somanath
[B] Sameer V Kamath
[C] Mayilsamy Annadurai
[D] M Vanitha
[E] P Veeramuthuvel
Q.95) Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
(GRSE) Ltd., under the Ministry of Defence (MoD)
has launched “Neerakshi” (Eyes in the Water).
This is India’s first of its kind indigenous
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
developed through a collaboration between
Kolkata-based warship maker GRSE Ltd and
Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME)
entity ________.
[A] Aerospace Engineering Private Ltd
[B] Dynamatic Technologies
[C] Spaceover corp
[D] Dhruva Space
[E] Skyroot Aerospace
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Q.96) Tata-backed airline Air India has unveiled
its new logo, replacing the previous “Wheel of
Konark”. The new logo symbol – “The Vista” is
inspired by the peak of the gold window frame,
signifying limitless possibilities, progressiveness,
and the airline’s bold, confident outlook for the
future. In which year the Government of India
passed the Air Corporations Act and purchased a
majority stake in the carrier from Tata Sons
though its founder J. R. D. Tata?
[A] 1960
[B] 1953
[C] 1948
[D] 1970
[E] 1958
Q.97) 12 August is celebrated as International
Youth Day every year since 12 August, 2000 after
its adoption by the United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA) in 1999 to draw worldwide
focus towards various issues surrounding the
youths What is the theme for the year 2023?
[A] Youth and Sustainable Future
[B] Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable
World
[C] Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation
for Human and Planetary Health
[D] Youth and Health for future
[E] Intergenerational solidarity: Creating a world
for all ages
Q.98) Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has
recently constituted a sectoral committee to frame
the unique regulatory landscape for 26 member
banks operating within the Gujarat International
Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). IBA was formed for
the development, coordination and strengthening
of Indian banking, and to assist the member
banks in various ways including implementation
of new systems and adoption of standards among
the members. In which year was IBA formed?
[A] 1954
[B] 1955
[C] 1946
[D] 1950
[E] 1949
Q.99) Indian Army has secured a patent for an
‘Accident Prevention System based on Artificial
Intelligence (AI)’ which is developed within the
Army’s research and development (R&D) division.
The system will save lives by alerting drivers from
falling asleep & reducing accidents caused by
drowsiness. How long is a patent valid in India
from the date of filing the patent application?
[A] 20
[B] 10
[C] 15
[D] 12
[E] 25
Q.100) Abhay Kumar, Deputy Director General of
Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) has
launched his new book titled “Monsoon: A Poem
of Love and Longing”. ICCR is an autonomous
organisation of the Government of India, involved
in India's global cultural relations. It was founded
by the first Education Minister of independent
India in the year ____.
[A] 1950
[B] 1951
[C] 1949
[D] 1952
[E] 1955
Q.101) One District One Product’ (ODOP)
initiative focuses on promoting one unique
product from each district, fostering balanced
regional development. Which Ministry has
launched One District One Product’ Wall at
SARAS Ajeevika Store in New Delhi to promote
indigenous crafts and artisans of India?
[A] Ministry of Commerce & Industry
[B] Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises
[C] Ministry of Rural Development
[D] A and B
[E] A and C
Q.102) Supreme Court of India (SC) has
constituted an all-women committee of 3 former
High Court judges to oversee the relief
rehabilitation and rebuilding measures in Manipur.
Who is the head of the all-woman panel?
[A] Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
[B] Justice Sonia Sotomayor
pg. 16
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[C] Justice Gita Mittal
[D] Justice Gyan Sudha Misra
[E] Justice Sudha Narayan
Q.103) Starting this year, every 11 August will be
celebrated as World Steelpan Day to recognise
the cultural and historical significance of the
Steelpan, the National Musical instrument
of_______, and its correlation to cultural, social,
and economic development. Steelpan’ was
declared as the National Musical instrument of
_____ in August 1992. Fill the gap.
[A] Trinidad and Tobago
[B] Hawaii
[C] Colombia
[D] Peru
[E] Cuba
Q.104) Which Ministry in collaboration with United
Nations India, Yuwaah at UNICEF has organised
ImPact with Youth Conclave on the eve of
International Youth Day to empower youth,
amplify their voices, and drive positive change in
South Asia?
[A] Ministry of Education
[B] Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs
[C] Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[E] Ministry of Culture
Q.105) Union Minister of Health and Family
Welfare, Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated
the 2nd phase of the Annual Nationwide Mass
Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for
_________ (disease) in New Delhi, Delhi.
[A] Helminthiasis
[B] Lymphatic Filariasis
[C] Echinococcosis
[D] Dengue
[E] Dracunculiasis
Q.106) Name the company that has recently (in
August ‘23) partnered with the Protean eGov
Technologies to provide credit services on the
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)
network for borrowers & Micro, Small & Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs).
[A] PayNearby
[B] Policybazaar
[C] MobiKwik
[D] Paytm
[E] PhonePe
Q.107) Name the Mobile App that has been
recently launched by Chief Justice of India (CJI)
Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud to get e-
passes to enter the Supreme Court of India (SC).
[A] Abhivadati
[B] SuSwagatam
[C] Svagata
[D] Abhinandan
[E] SUPACE
Q.108) Which company has recently entered into
an agreement with Technology Development
Board (TDB), Department of Science &
Technology (DST) to the commercialisation of
digitally enabled advanced universal Intensive
Care Unit (ICU) ventilators?
[A] Asimov Robotics Pvt Ltd
[B] Rapyuta Robotics Pvt Ltd
[C] M/s Noccarc Robotics Pvt Ltd
[D] Sastra Robotics India Pvt Ltd
[E] M/s Bharati Robotic Systems Pvt Ltd
Q.109) Padma Awardee and renowned nuclear
physicist Bikash Chandra Sinha passed away in
August 2023. In which year did he receive the
Padma Bhushan Award in the field of Science &
Engineering?
[A] 2010
[B] 2014
[C] 2018
[D] 2021
[E] 2022
Q.110) Chief Minister of Rajasthan has launched
the Indira Gandhi Smart Phone Scheme under
which free smartphones with 3 years of data
facility will be distributed to women in Rajasthan.
The beneficiaries will include girl students (class 9
to class 12) of government schools, college
students, single women, and widows. What will be
the amount deposited in their e-wallet for the
purchase of these smartphones and SIM?
[A] Rs. 6800
[B] Rs. 8800
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[C] Rs. 4800
[D] Rs. 9800
[E] Rs. 2800
Q.111) National Space Innovation Challenge
2023 is being launched to ignite next generation
space enthusiasts to understand and contribute
towards growing Indian space economy and
future space workforce. The challenge is open to
all school students (Classes 5 to 12) from ATL
and Non-ATL schools across the country.
Who has launched this national-level campaign?
[A] Atal Innovation Mission
[B] Indian Space Research Organisation
[C] Navars EduTech
[D] A and B
[E] A, B and C
Q.112) Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship recently has launched Direct
Benefit Transfer in National Apprenticeship
Promotion Scheme to strengthen apprenticeship
ecosystem in India. Under this scheme,
________ of prescribed stipend subject to a
maximum of __________ per month per
apprentice is shared with the employers. Fill the
gaps.
[A] 25%, Rs. 1500
[B] 30%, Rs. 2000
[C] 35%, Rs. 2500
[D] 20%, Rs. 3000
[E] 15%, Rs. 3500
Q.113) Every year 13 August is celebrated World
Organ Donation Day to raise awareness about
the importance of organ donation and to
encourage people to become organ donors. It
was first celebrated in 2005 by the World Health
Organization (WHO) and the International Society
for Organ Donation (ISOD). What is theme for the
year 2023?
[A] Step up to volunteer; need more organ donors
to fill the lacunae
[B] Step up to give; need more organ donors
[C] Step up to contribute; need more people to
donate
[D] Step up; donate
[E] Step up for the cause; need more organ
donors
Q.114) Which of the following government sector
enterprises has recently (In August ‘23) signed an
MoU with Universal Health Foundation for setting
up of Gramin Gyan Jyoti Kendras in nine villages
of Jodhpur (Rajasthan) & one village of Nagore
(Rajasthan)?
[A] National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
[B] Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)
[C] Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC)
[D] Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited
(NPCIL)
[E] National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Ltd
(NHPC)
Q.115) Chakr Innovation Pvt Ltd, Haryana- based
technology start-up has recently (in Aug ‘23)
secured substantial funding of Rs.18 crores from
the ___________________ under its Ubharte
Sitare Programme (USP).
[A] Export-Import Bank of India
[B] Canara Bank
[C] Bank of India
[D] Union Bank of India
[E] Indian Bank
Q.116) Which of the following banks has recently
(in Aug ‘23) signed an MoU with Amul, to offer
financial services to federation's supply network
pan-India under the MUDRA scheme and finance
Amul’s retailers?
[A] IndusInd Bank
[B] Punjab National Bank
[C] YES Bank
[D] HDFC Bank
[E] ICICI Bank
Q.117) A renewable energy microgrid is an
autonomous, localised and self-contained energy
system that incorporates renewable energy
sources as its primary generation inputs. Which
ministry has officially inaugurated a Microgrid
Power Plant for Renewable Energy, aimed at
fulfilling the electrical energy requirements of rural
communities?
[A] Ministry of Electronics & Information
Technology
[B] Ministry of Home Affairs
[C] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
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[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[E] Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Q.118) In August 2023, _______________ is
India's Only Movie to enter it to the semifinals of
the Oscar’s Student Academy Awards (SAA)
2023.
[A] Period. End of Sentence
[B] Chhello Show
[C] Champaran Mutton
[D] Writing with Fire
[E] All That Breathes
Q.119) Padma Shri Awardee Professor MR
Satyanarayana Rao passed away in August
2023. In which year did he receive Padma Shri
Award for Science and Engineering?
[A] 2010
[B] 2020
[C] 2018
[D] 2015
[E] 2022
Q.120) Name the state that has recently (in
August ‘23) launched India’s 1st Agricultural Data
Exchange (ADeX) and Agriculture Data
Management Framework (ADMF).
[A] Telangana
[B] Punjab
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
[E] Andhra Pradesh
Q.121) 1st WHO Global Summit on Traditional
Medicine is being organised to explore the role of
traditional, complementary and integrative
medicine in addressing pressing health
challenges and driving progress in global health
and sustainable development.
Where is the summit being organised by World
Health Organization (WHO) which is co-hosted by
the Ministry of Ayush?
[A] Varanasi
[B] Leh
[C] Gandhinagar
[D] Jaipur
[E] Bhopal
Q.122) Union Cabinet has recently approved the
Mutual Recognition Arrangement of Authorised
Economic Operators (AEO) between India and
another country. The arrangement is aimed at
providing reciprocal benefits to accredited and
trusted exporters of both the signatories in the
clearance of goods by the Customs authorities of
the importing country. Name the country.
[A] Vietnam
[B] China
[C] Australia
[D] Singapore
[E] France
Q.123) Consider the following statements about
PM Vishwakarma-
(1) It is Central Sector Scheme with financial
outlay of Rs. 25,000 crores.
(2) It is being implemented for period of 5 years
(FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28).
(3) It will provide credit support and other support
to artisans and craftspeople only from rural areas
across India.
(4) Under it, artisans and craftspeople will be
provided with Rs.1 lakh (First Tranche) and Rs.2
lakh (Second Tranche) with a concessional
interest rate of 5%.
(5) It is covering total 25 traditional trades in the
first instance.
Which of the above statements are incorrect?
[A] 2, 3 and 4 Only
[B] 3, 4 and 5 Only
[C] 1, 3 and 5 Only
[D] 1, 2 and 3 Only
[E] 2, 4 and 5 Only
Q.124) India’s first Unmanned Aerial Systems
(Drone) Common Testing Centre will be set up in
______ at an outlay of Rs 45 crore. The testing
centre is under Défense Testing Infrastructure
Scheme (DTIS) which envisages setting up of 6-8
Greenfield Defense Testing Infrastructure facilities
that are required for defense and aerospace
related production. Name the state where the
testing centre will come up.
[A] Karnataka
[B] West Bengal
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Telangana
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[E] Jharkhand
Q.128) Union Cabinet recently has approved
Q.125) 14 August is celebrated as Partition signing of MoU between India and which country
Horrors Remembrance Day / Vibhajan Vibhishika in the field of Medical Products Regulation?
Smriti Diwas to remember of the struggles and [A] Maldives
sacrifices made by people during the partition of [B] Suriname
India into India and Pakistan in 1947. Which [C] Sri Lanka
edition of the day was celebrated this year? [D] Mauritius
[A] 2 [E] Kenya
[B] 4
[C] 3 Q.129) Which country recently hosted
[D] 5 International Conference on ‘Preserving
[E] 8 Information Integrity and Public Trust in
Elections’?
Q.126) Where Ministry of Electronics & [A] South Africa
Information Technology is organising G20-Digital [B] Brazil
Innovation Alliance (DIA) Summit on sidelines of [C] Russia
the Fourth meeting of G20 Digital Economy [D] India
Working Group (DEWG) under India's [E] China
Presidency?
[A] Pune Q.130) With which country has Union Cabinet
[B] Hyderabad approved signing and ratification of the Mutual
[C] New Delhi Recognition Arrangement aimed at providing
[D] Lucknow reciprocal benefits to accredited and trusted
[E] Bengaluru exporters of both the signatories in the clearance
of goods by the Customs authorities of the
Q.127) Which of the following statements are importing country?
incorrect about recently approved bus scheme [A] Australia
“PM-eBus Sewa” by Union Cabinet? [B] United States
(1) It aims to augment city bus operation by [C] Mauritius
20,000 e-buses on Public Private Partnership [D] Singapore
(PPP) model [E] Russia
(2) It will cover cities of 3 lakh and above
population (Census 2011) including all Capital Q.131) Name the country that has recently signed
cities of UTs, North Eastern Region and Hill an MoU for sharing of ‘India Stack ‘, a collection
States. of open Application Programming Interfaces
(3) Its estimated cost of Rs.57,613 crore, out of (APIs), and Digital Public Goods (DPGs).
which support of Rs.35,000 crore will be provided [A] South Africa
by the Central government [B] Bangladesh
(4) Bus operations under this scheme will be [C] Trinidad and Tobago
supported for 15 years [D] Srilanka
(5) It has two Segment A – Augmenting the City [E] Nepal
bus services (169 cities) and Segment B – Green
Urban Mobility Initiatives (181 cities) Q.132) Which country’s Air Force has recently
[A] 1, 3 and 4 Only received the Dornier 228 maritime surveillance
[B] 2, 4 and 5 Only aircraft from the Indian Navy?
[C] 1, 2 and 3 Only [A] Maldives
[D] 2, 3 and 4 Only [B] Indonesia
[E] 1, 4 and 5 Only [C] Srilanka
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[D] Singapore
[E] Seychelles
Q.133) Which of the following points is/are
“correct” with respect to the initiative taken by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in August 2023?
1. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) commenced its
digital lending pilot project for Public Tech
Platform for Frictionless Credit which is developed
by Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH). 2. RBI
Governor has introduced a centralized web portal
called “उद्गम UDGAM” (Unclaimed Deposits –
Gateway to Access inforMation) to simplify the
process for the public to locate their unclaimed
deposits in various banks through a single
platform.
3. Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd
(ReBIT), Indian Financial Technology & Allied
Services (IFTAS) and participating banks have
collaborated to develop this portal.
Which of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only 1
[B] 1 and 2
[C] 1, 2 and 3
[D] 2 and 3
[E] Only 3
Q.134) Consider the following statements about
"FloodWatch" mobile application:
1. The "FloodWatch" app offers an interactive
map feature that allows users to directly select a
station for flood forecasts and provides
information in English, Hindi, and regional
languages.
2. Users of the "FloodWatch" app can access
flood forecasts up to 7 days in advance through
satellite data analysis and mathematical
modelling.
3. Free download from Google Play Store and is
available on Apple iOS also.
Select the correct statements using the codes
below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] Both 1 and 2
[D] 3 only
[E] 1, 2 and 3
Q.135) Which attached office/Government
agency of the GoI has recently launched
FloodWatch, a mobile application to provide real-
time flood information and forecasts?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Paani Foundation
[C] Central Water Commission
[D] Central Water and Power Research Station
[E] Central Ground Water Board
Q.136) Where Ministry of Electronics &
Information Technology is organising G20-Digital
Innovation Alliance (DIA) Summit on sidelines of
the Fourth meeting of G20 Digital Economy
Working Group (DEWG) under India's
Presidency?
[A] Pune
[B] Hyderabad
[C] New Delhi
[D] Lucknow
[E] Bengaluru
Q.137) Name the bank that has recently
partnered with Reserve Bank Innovation Hub
(RBIH) to launch Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and
unsecured Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
(MSME) loans powered by Public Tech Platform
for Frictionless Credit (PTPFC).
[A] YES Bank
[B] ICICI Bank
[C] HDFC Bank
[D] IndusInd Bank
[E] Axis Bank
Q.138) Name the company that has recently
signed an MoU with the North Eastern
Handicrafts and Handlooms Development
Corporation (NEHHDC) to empower digitisation of
the handloom and handicraft sector in northeast
India.
[A] Vena Solutions
[B] Tide Platform Limited
[C] Addepar Limited
[D] Anaplan Limited
[E] iCapital Solutions
Q.139) India’s first 3D-printed post office has
been inaugurated by Union Minister Ashwini
Vaishnaw in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout. The
pg. 21
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post office covers an area of 1,021 square feet
and was created using advanced 3D concrete
printing. With robotic precision and pre-embedded
designs, the project was completed in just 43
days, far shorter than the conventional 6 to 8
months. Name the firm which undertook the
project.
[A] Shapoorji Group
[B] Larsen & Toubro Limited
[C] Hindustan Construction Company
[D] Reliance Infrastructure
[E] Brigade group
Q.140) Which bank has recently launched Visa
multi-branded credit card in partnership with
British Airways Executive Club and Qatar Airways
Privilege Club?
[A] YES Bank
[B] ICICI Bank
[C] HDFC Bank
[D] IndusInd Bank
[E] Axis Bank
Q.141) Consider the following statements about
Bharat New Car Assessment Programme.
1. Manufacturers have to mandatorily get their
cars tested as per the Automotive Industry
Standard (AIS) 197.
2. Based on the performance of the car in the
tests, the car will be awarded star ratings for Adult
Occupants (AOP) and Child Occupants (COP).
3. The proposed Bharat NCAP assessment will
allocate Star Ratings from 1 to 10 stars.
Select the correct statements using the codes
below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] Both 1 and 2
[D] Both 1 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.142) According to a recent study by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), five states
accounted for more than half of the total bank-
assisted investment proposals made during the
year 2022-23, mirroring the skewed pattern of
industrialization in the country. These states
together accounted for 57.2% of the total
investment proposals made during the year.
Identify the states.
[A] Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Assam
[B] Uttar Pradesh, Kerala and Rajasthan
[C] Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Odisha
[D] Uttar Pradesh, Kerala and Goa
[E] Uttar Pradesh, Goa and Rajasthan
Q.143) Consider the following statements about
BRICS
1. The BRICS is a group of major emerging
economies, which include Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa. The 15th meeting of the
heads of state and government of member
nations will be held in Johannesburg.
2. India became its member in 2010.
3. The heads of state and government of the
member nations convene annually with each
nation taking up a one-year rotating chairmanship
of the group.
Select the correct statements using the codes
below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] 1 and 3
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.144) Which one of the following groups of items
is included in India’s foreign-exchange reserves?
[A] Foreign-currency assets, Special Drawing
Rights (SDRs) and loans from foreign countries
[B] Foreign-currency assets, gold holdings of the
RBI and SDRs
[C] Foreign-currency assets, gold holdings of the
RBI and loans from the World Bank
[D] Foreign-currency assets, loans from the World
Bank and SDRs
[E] Foreign-currency assets, gold holdings of the
RBI and loans from foreign countries
Q.145) Which new variety flower named ‘Namoh
108’ has recently been developed by Lucknow
Institute CSIR-NBRI (National Botanical Research
Institute)?
[A] Lotus
[B] Sunflower
[C] Rose
[D] Orchid
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[E] Lilly [D] Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas

Q.146) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
recently has notified the Green Hydrogen
Standard for India. It has defined Green
Hydrogen as having a well-to-gate emission
threshold of __________ kg CO2 equivalent / kg
H2 as 12-month average. Fill the gap.
[A] 6
[B] 5
[C] 4
[D] 3
[E] 2
Q.147) ‘Global Initiative on Digital Health’ has
been launched recently during G20 Health
Ministers’ Meeting held under India’s Presidency
in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It is WHO-managed
platform for sharing digital goods and knowledge
to promote country capacity and strengthen
international cooperation. Which of the following
are pillars are of GIDH?
(1) Country Need Tracker
(2) Pandemic Monitoring
(3) Country Resource Portal
(4) Transformation Toolbox
(5) Convening & Knowledge Exchange
[A] 1, 2 and 3
[B] 2, 3 and 5
[C] 1, 3, 4 and 5
[D] 2, 3, 4 and 5
[E] 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q.148) In which state Union Minister for Fisheries,
Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Parshottam
Rupala has recently unveiled the ‘A-HELP’
(Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of
Livestock Production) programme?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
[E] Maharashtra
Q.149) Which ministry has recently launched the
‘Graphene-Aurora program’ in Kochi, Kerala?
[A] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[B] Ministry of Mines
[C] Ministry of Coal
[E] Ministry of Electronics & Information
Technology
Q.150) Which organisation/Bank has recently
approved a USD 40.5 million loan for an
integrated project focussing on Early Childhood
Development (ECD) and Maternal Mental Health
in Meghalaya, India?
[A] Asian Development Bank
[B] New Development Bank
[C] African Development Bank
[D] United Nations Children's Fund
[E] World Health Organization
Q.151) Which bank has recently became the First
Public Sector Bank (PSB) to extend the facility of
execution of on-line locker agreement through
Digital Document Execution (DDE) Platform of
National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL)?
[A] Bank of Baroda
[B] Punjab National Bank
[C] Canara Bank
[D] Indian Bank
[E] Union Bank of India
Q.152) Recently, India’s first long-range side
swing revolver ‘Prabal’ with twice the range of
other revolvers was launched at the Small Arms
Factory (SFA) in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Which
company manufactured the swing revolver?
[A] Astra Microwave Products
[B] Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Ltd.
[C] Amol Steel Pvt Ltd
[D] Bharat Earth Movers Ltd
[E] Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd
Q.153) In Which state, the second Missile Cum
Ammunition (MCA) Barge Yard 76 (LSAM 8) was
inaugurated by Commodore G Ravi in August
2023?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
[E] Maharashtra
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Q.154) What was the theme of World [E] 2014

Photography Day 2023 that was observed across
the globe on 19th August 2023?
[A] Understanding Clouds
[B] Transcending the boundaries of language
[C] Be Nice
[D] Pandemic Lockdown through the lens
[E] Landscapes
Q.155) Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) is developing Radio thermoelectric
generators (RTGs), in collaboration with an
organisation with an aim to surpass the
constraints of conventional chemical engines for
interplanetary voyages. The chemical engines
work well for satellite thrusters, but they are
inadequate for deep space travel due to fuel
limitations and lack of solar power in distant
regions. Name the organisation which is
developing the generators with ISRO.
[A] Bhabha Atomic Research Center
[B] Defence Research and Development
Organization
[C] Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
[D] National Innovation Foundation
[E] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
Q.156) Indian Army has inducted the first Swathi
Mark II Mountain variant Weapon Locating Radar
(WLR), a lighter and compact version WLR
designed specifically for mountains & high-
altitude areas. Which company has developed
Swathi Mk II?
[A] Bharat Dynamics
[B] Bharat Electronics Limited
[C] Hindustan Aerospace
[D] Astra Micro
[E] MTAR technologies
Q.157) In the recently held 20th ASEAN-India
Economic Ministers’ Meeting in Semarang,
Indonesia, an agreement to review the free trade
agreement by 2025 has been reached.
In which year ASEAN-India Trade in Goods
Agreement was signed and entered into force?
[A] 2010
[B] 2012
[C] 2013
[D] 2011
Q.158) Consider the following statements-
1. India is the world's second-biggest wheat
producer after China.
2. India is the largest producer of rice in the world.
3. India is the largest producer and China is the
largest exporters of Onions in the world. Select
the correct statements using the codes below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] Both 1 and 2
[D] Both 1 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.159) Consider the following statements with
respect to groupings-
1. ASEAN and BRICS have India as a common
member.
2. ASEAN was founded in 1967 by the 10
Southeast Asian member nations.
3. India maintains a trade deficit with ASEAN.
Select the correct statements using the codes
below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] 1 and 2
[D] 3 only
[E] 1 and 3
Q.160) Which bank has recently mobile banking
application ‘iris’?
[A] YES Bank
[B] HDFC Bank
[C] ICICI Bank
[D] IndusInd Bank
[E] Axis Bank
Q.161) Recently, U.S. Food and Drug
Administration has approved Abrysvo, the first
vaccine approved for use in pregnant individuals
to prevent lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD)
and severe LRTD caused by respiratory _____
virus (RSV) in infants from birth through 6 months
of age. Abrysvo is administered as a single dose
injection into the muscle, is approved for use at
32 through 36 weeks gestational age of
pregnancy. Name the virus.
[A] Salmonellosis
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[B] Shigellosis
[C] Syphilis
[D] Syncytial
[E] Small pox
Q.162) Recently a cricket has been appointed as
the ‘National Icon’ for voter awareness and
education for the Election Commission of India
(ECI). Through this partnership ECI aims to
bridge the gap between citizens, especially youth
and urban populations and the electoral process
thereby, trying to address the challenges of urban
and youth apathy. Identify the player.
[A] Sachin Tendulkar
[B] Mahendra Singh Dhoni
[C] Rahul Dravid
[D] Saurav Ganguly
[E] Rohit Sharma
Q.163) The board of the Unique Identification
Authority of India (UIDAI) comprises a
chairperson, two part-time members, and the
chief executive officer, who is also the Member-
Secretary of the Authority. The chairperson and
the members hold office for a term of three years
or up to the age of 65, whichever is earlier. Who
has recently been appointed as the part-time
chairman of UIDAI?
[A] Neelkanth Mishra
[B] J. Satyanarayana
[C] Saurabh Garg
[D] Nandan Nilekani
[E] Amit Agarwal
Q.164) World Water Week is annually observed
across the globe during the last week of August
with an aim to examine the pivotal role of water in
addressing several pressing global challenges
such as water crisis, global warming, biodiversity
loss, etc. The Theme of World Water Week 2023
is “Seeds of Change: Innovative Solutions for a
Water-Wise World”. Which organisation organises
the World Water Week?
[A] World Wildlife Fund
[B] World Water Council
[C] United Nations Development Fund
[D] International Water Organisation
[E] Stockholm International Water Institute
Q.165) Ratan Tata has been honoured with the
first ever ‘Udyog Ratna Award’ for his outstanding
contribution to Maharashtra’s industrial
development. The Udyog Ratna Award is one of
the category awards presented in the
Maharashtra Industry Awards 2023, instituted by
the Maharashtra government. Which edition of
Maharashtra Industry awards was celebrated this
year?
[A] 1st
[B] 5th
[C] 10th
[D] 2nd
[E] 3rd
Q.166) Which life insurance company has
recently become the first in the country to provide
24X7 inbound contact centre?
[A] HDFC Life Insurance
[B] SBI Life Insurance
[C] Exide Life Insurance
[D] IndiaFirst Life Insurance
[E] Max Life Insurance
Q.167) Who has been recently appointed as the
brand ambassador of Bharat Petroleum
Corporation Ltd (BPCL)?
[A] Rahul Dravid
[B] Sunil Manohar Gavaskar
[C] Yuvraj Singh
[D] Virendra Sehwag
[E] Saurav Ganguly
Q.168) Which country has recently launched a
new Earth observation satellite, ‘Gaofen-12 04’ by
a Long March-4C carrier rocket?
[A] Japan
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Australia
[E] Israel
Q.169) Which of the following points is/are
“correct” with respect to the World Under-20
Wrestling Championships 2023 held in Amman,
Jordan?
A) Indian wrestlers have won a total of 14 medals
(4 golds, 3 silver and 7 bronze) in the World
Under-20 Wrestling Championships 2023.
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B) Antim Panghal won the gold Medal in [B] North Korea

Women’s 53kg event. [C] Iran
C) Mohit Kumar won the gold medal in the 61kg [D] Vietnam
freestyle category (Men’s). [E] Qatar
[A] A
[B] B Q.174) Which state’s electronics and
[C] A and B communications (ITE&C) department has recently
[D] B and C signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the United
[E] A, B and C Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) to implement the
Q.170) Katchatheevu island has been a UNESCO recommendation on the Ethics of
longstanding point of contention between India Artificial Intelligence (AI)
and ____, particularly with regard to fishing rights [A] Karnataka
and sovereignty over the uninhabited island. [B] West Bengal
Name the country with which India has this issue. [C] Tamil Nadu
[A] Srilanka [D] Telangana
[B] Maldives [E] Jharkhand
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Seychelles Q.175) According to the MoU signed between
[E] Mauritius Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
Limited (IREDA) & Ministry of New and
Q.171) Which state government has recently Renewable Energy (MNRE) in August 2023, the
released Mayem Biodiversity Atlas - India’s 1st GoI has set a target of achieving Rs
Village Atlas which gives a socio-cultural history ___________ revenue from operations during FY
of Mayem village that dates back to the 12th 2023-24 and Rs.5,220 crores during FY 2024-25
century? [A] Rs. 5,350 crores
[A] Karnataka [B] Rs. 3,350 crores
[B] Kerala [C] Rs. 4,350 crores
[C] Goa [D] Rs. 5,050 crores
[D] Jharkhand [E] Rs. 4,850 crores
[E] Nagaland
Q.176) Name the organisation that has recently
Q.172) In August 2023, Union Minister Rajnath entered into a MoU with the Ministry of
Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD) has set up a 9- Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER)
member committee of experts headed by to enhance and accelerate Sustainable
____________, to maintain the Defence Development Goals (SDGs) in northeastern
Research and Development Organization regions of India
(DRDO). [A] Asian Development Bank
[A] V. K. Saraswat [B] World Bank
[B] Ajay K. Sood [C] International Monetary fund
[C] Rajagopala Chidambaram [D] International Labour Organisation
[D] Manjul Bhargava [E] United Nations Development Programme
[E] K Vijay Raghavan
Q.177) Which company has recently received
Q.173) Name the country that has recently USD 100 million investment from International
unveiled Mohajer-10, the new domestically built Finance Corporation (IFC) to increase access to
attack drone (unmanned combat aerial vehicle – housing finance among economically weaker
UCAV). sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG) in
[A] Israel India?
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[A] India Home Loans Ltd
[B] Gic Housing Finance Ltd
[C] IIFL Home Finance Ltd
[D] Indiabulls Housing Ltd
[E] LIC Housing Finance Ltd
Q.178) Which state became first in India to
operationalize Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
(ABDM) Microsite under the 100 Microsites
Project?
[A] Mizoram
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Bihar
[E] Uttarakhand
Q.179) Consider the following statements about
BRICS-
1. The BRICS is a group of major emerging
economies, which include Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa. The 15th meeting of the
heads of state and government of member
nations will be held in Johannesburg.
2. India became its member in 2010.
3. The heads of state and government of the
member nations convene annually with each
nation taking up a one-year rotating chairmanship
of the group.
Select the correct statements using the codes
below:
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] 1 and 3
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.180) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Ministry
of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has
recently launched the BNCAP in New Delhi,
Delhi. What does C stand for in BNCAP?
[A] Customer
[B] Central
[C] Car
[D] Carriage
[E] Crash
Q.181) Consider the following statements about
India Smart City Awards (ISCA) 2022-
1. The contest provides an opportunity for smart
cities to showcase their most innovative, impactful
projects and for others to recognize and learn
from their best practices.
2. Indore has been named as the best city in the
Smart Cities Mission in ISCA 2022.
3. This is the fifth edition of ISCA awards.
Which of the following statements is true?
[A] 1 only
[B] 1 and 3
[C] 1 and 2
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.182) Consider the following statements about
National Film Awards 2023-
1. The awards aims at encouraging the
production of films of aesthetic and technical
excellence and social relevance.
2. The event is held by the Government of India’s
Film and Television Institute of India, which
comes under the Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting.
3. Rocketry: The Nambi effect has won the best
feature film award.
Which of the following statements is true?
[A] 1 only
[B] 1 and 3
[C] 1 and 2
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.183) Consider the following statements about
PM’s recent visit to Greece-
1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred
with 'The Grand Cross of the Order of Honour’,
the country’s second-highest civilian honour.
2. Greece is surrounded by Mediterranean Sea
on one side and Black Sea on another.
3. Capital of Greece is Athens.
Which of the following statements is true?
[A] 1 only
[B] 1 and 3
[C] 1 and 2
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.184) Consider the following statements-
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1. 12th April is celebrated as the International Day operational capabilities of the Indian Armed
of Human Space Flight to commemorate Neil Forces.
Armstrong’s landing on the moon. [A] Rs. 7800 crores
2. 23rd August will be celebrated as National [B] Rs. 9800 crores
Space Day of India. [C] Rs. 4800 crores
3. 1996 was designated as International Space [D] Rs. 5800 crores
Year by the United Nations. [E] Rs. 2800 crores
Which of the following statements is true?
[A] 1 only Q.189) Which country's wrestling Federation
[B] 2 only membership has recently got suspended by the
[C] 1 and 3 United World Wrestling (UWW) due to lack of
[D] 2 and 3 elections in the organisation?
[E] 3 only [A] Russia
[B] China
Q.185) Name the company that has recently [C] India
signed an MoU with Inland Waterways Authority [D] Ukraine
of India (IWAI) to export Petroleum Cargo via [E] France
National Waterways (NW)-2 (Brahmaputra) and
Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR). Q.190) Name the state government that has
[A] Jamnagar Refinery Limited recently launched the Manav Sampada portal to
[B] Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited ensure transparency in the work of all the officers
[C] Numaligarh Refinery Limited and employees.
[D] Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited [A] Rajasthan
[E] Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited [B] Punjab
[C] Uttar Pradesh
Q.186) Which of the following tennis players has [D] Bihar
been recently been appointed as the ambassador [E] Haryana
of Infosys Limited?
[A] Novak Djokovic (Serbia) Q.191) Consider the following statements about
[B] Rafael Nadal (Spain) Exercise BRIGHT STAR 23.
[C] Iga Świątek (Poland) 1. It is one day military exercise being held in
[D] Both 1 & 3 Cairo, Egypt.
[E] Both 2 & 3 2. India is a regular participant of this exercise
since its inception.
Q.187) The Indian Navy has successfully 3. Egypt is located in a strategic location between
undertaken the maiden test drop of the the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. Which
____________ and Rescue Kit (SARK) from the of the following statements is true?
Boeing P-8I long-range patrol aircraft. Fill the gap. [A] 1 only
[A] System [B] 1 and 3
[B] Ship [C] 1 and 2
[C] Search [D] 2 and 3
[D] Saturated [E] 3 only
[E] Scalar
Q.192) Consider the following statements-
Q.188) In August 2023, the Defence Acquisition 1. Sport Authority of India is responsible for the
Council (DAC) granted Acceptance of Necessity Indian contingent's participation in the Olympic
(AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games,
around Rs _____________ to enhance the World Games etc.

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2. There is no national federation or governing
body for Handball in India.
3. 2023 World Wrestling Championships is
scheduled to take place in Belgrade, Serbia.
Which of the following statements is true?
[A] 1 only
[B] 1 and 3
[C] 1 and 2
[D] 2 and 3
[E] 3 only
Q.193) Launched in 1998, the International Space
Station is one of the most ambitious international
collaborations ever attempted. The largest space
station ever constructed; the ISS continues to be
assembled in orbit. It has been visited by
astronauts from 18 countries and counting. Which
of the following Space agency is not a partner in
International Space station?
[A] NASA
[B] Roscosmos
[C] ESA
[D] ISRO
[E] CSA
Q.194) Which company has recently has signed a
contract with the Ministry of Defence to acquire
five indigenously built Fleet Support Ships (FSS)
for the Indian Navy worth Rs.19,000 crore?
[A] Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
[B] Cochin Shipyard Limited
[C] Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
[D] Hindustan Shipyard Limited
[E] Goa Shipyard Limited
Q.195) In August 2023, Emmerson Mnangagwa
was re-elected as the President of ___________
for the second term of 5 years.
[A] Rwanda
[B] Ghana
[C] Zimbabwe
[D] Tanzania
[E] Ethiopia
Q.196) Which of the following points is/are
“correct” with respect to the Badminton World
Federation (BWF) World Championships 2023
held in Copenhagen, Denmark?
A) Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand won the men’s
singles title by defeating Kodai Naraoka of Japan.
B) India’s Srikanth Kidambi won the bronze medal
in the men’s singles at the BWF World
Championships 2023.
C) An Se-young of South Korea won the women’s
singles title by defeating Carolina Marin of Spain.
[A] All A, B & C
[B] Only A & B
[C] Only B & C
[D] Only A & C
[E] Only A
Q.197) Which of the following points is/are
“correct” with respect to the World Athletics
Championships 2023 held in August 2023?
A) The 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medallist
Neeraj Chopra has won the gold medal in the
men’s javelin with an 88.17-meter throw in the
World Athletics Championships 2023.
B) Indian men’s 4x400m relay team comprising
Muhammed Anas Yahiya, Amob Jacob,
Muhammed Ajmal and Rajesh Ramesh finished
fifth in the finals.
C) India has finished 18th in the championship
with 1 gold to its total tally.
[A] Only A
[B] All A, B & C
[C] Only A & B
[D] Only B & C
[E] Only A
Q.198) Which GoI office/Authority has recently
launched TRINETRA, an indigenously developed
cyber threat detection and resolution system?
[A] Common Services Centres (CSC) e-
Governance Service India Limited
[B] Centre for Development of Telematics
[C] Centre for Development of Imaging
Technology
[D] Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial
Development
[E] National Legal Services Authority
Q.199) Name the Indian Institute of Technology
(IIT) that has recently partnered with HSBC to
support Innovation-led Green Hydrogen
production.
[A] IIT Kanpur
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[B] IIT Roorkee [D] Ruchira Kamboj

[C] IIT Bombay
[D] IIT Madras
[E] IIT Guwahati
Q.200) Which Payments Bank has recently
collaborated with Frontier Markets and the
Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth to launch
‘She Leads Bharat: Udyam’?
[A] Airtel Payments Bank
[B] Jio Payments Bank
[C] Fino Payments Bank
[D] India Post Payments Bank
[E] Paytm Payments Bank
Q.201) Consider the following statements about
Production Linked Incentives (PLI):
1. The PLI scheme aims to provide financial
incentives to manufacturers who meet specific
production targets.
2. The scheme is also applicable to the
agriculture sector.
3. The PLI scheme is expected to reduce
dependence on imports and promote domestic
manufacturing.
Which of the above statements is /are correct?
[A] 1 and 2 only
[B] 2 and 3 only
[C] 1 and 3 only
[D] 1, 2 and 3
[E] 2 only
Q.202) Which organization has recently signed an
MoU with the National Institution for Transforming
India (NITI) Aayog to speed up the efforts to
achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs).
[A] United Nations Environment Programme
[B] International Labour Organization
[C] United Nations Children's Fund
[D] World Health Organization
[E] United Nations Development Programme
Q.203) Who has been recently appointed as the
first woman Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) at the High
Commission of India in Islamabad, Pakistan?
[A] Seema Pujani
[B] Sneha Dubey
[C] Geetika Srivastava
[E] Asma Garg
Q.204) On the occasion of National Sports Day
2023, Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur,
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has
launched the National Sports _____________
(NSF) portal.
[A] Facility
[B] Functions
[C] Federations
[D] Funds
[E] Foundations
Q.205) Which team has recently won the 1st
edition of World Chess Federation (FIDE) World
Rapid Team Championship 2023 held in
Dusseldorf, Germany.
[A] WR Chess
[B] Columbus Energy Kings Of Chess
[C] MGD1
[D] Team Freedom
[E] Armenia
Q.206) Which state government has recently
signed an MoU with Deutsche Fußball Liga
GmbH (DFL) to develop the football ecosystem in
India?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
[E] Assam
Q.207) Name the Organisation/bank that has
recently signed an Rs 1.2 billion worth of
agreement with the Fourth Partner Energy (4PEL)
Private Limited to build and operate a solar
photovoltaic power plant in Tirunelveli, Tamil
Nadu.
[A] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[B] Asian Development Bank
[C] International Monetary Fund
[D] United Nations Development Programme
[E] World Bank
Q.208) Which state has recently launched
Panchayati Raj Accounting Information System
Automation (PRAISA) software to make online
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payment compulsory for Panchayati Raj [E] ICICI Bank

institutions at a state-level ‘Meri Mati Mera
Desh‘campaign? Q.210) Who has been recently appointed as the
[A] Gujarat chairman of the Finance Industry Development
[B] Odisha Council (FIDC) for a period of 2 years?
[C] Gujarat [A] Theepak Jain
[D] West Bengal [B] Ajay Kumar
[E] Madhya Pradesh [C] Atish Mathur
[D] Umesh Revankar
Q.209) Name the bank that has recently launched [E] Jayanth Kumar
‘Infinity Savings Account’, a first of-its-kind fully
Digital fixed fee-based savings account with no
paperwork or branch visits.
[A] IndusInd Bank
[B] HDFC Bank
[C] Axis Bank
[D] YES Bank

1 D 51 A 101 E 151 D 201 C

2 A 52 A 102 C 152 B 202 E

3 C 53 A 103 A 153 A 203 C

4 A 54 B 104 B 154 E 204 C

5 A 55 A 105 B 155 A 205 A

6 D 56 B 106 A 156 B 206 B

7 D 57 D 107 B 157 A 207 B

8 B 58 C 108 C 158 A 208 A

9 B 59 A 109 A 159 D 209 C

10 D 60 A 110 A 160 A 210 D

11 A 61 A 111 E 161 D

12 D 62 D 112 A 162 A

13 D 63 D 113 A 163 A

14 B 64 B 114 E 164 E

15 A 65 D 115 A 165 A

16 B 66 B 116 B 166 B

17 D 67 D 117 A 167 A

18 C 68 C 118 C 168 C

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19 A 69 A 119 A 169 E

20 A 70 A 120 A 170 A

21 A 71 A 121 C 171 C

22 D 72 D 122 C 172 E

23 A 73 A 123 C 173 C

24 B 74 B 124 C 174 D

25 A 75 A 125 C 175 C

26 C 76 C 126 E 176 E

27 D 77 D 127 A 177 C

28 C 78 C 128 B 178 A

29 A 79 A 129 B 179 C

30 A 80 A 130 A 180 C

31 A 81 B 131 C 181 C

32 D 82 A 132 C 182 B

33 C 83 A 133 C 183 B

34 A 84 D 134 C 184 B

35 A 85 C 135 C 185 C

36 E 86 B 136 E 186 B

37 E 87 B 137 E 187 C

38 B 88 B 138 B 188 A

39 D 89 A 139 B 189 C

40 B 90 B 140 D 190 C

41 B 91 A 141 B 191 E

42 B 92 A 142 C 192 E

43 A 93 A 143 C 193 D

44 B 94 E 144 B 194 D

45 D 95 A 145 A 195 C

46 C 96 B 146 E 196 D

47 D 97 B 147 C 197 B

48 A 98 C 148 A 198 B

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49 D 99 A 149 E 199 C

50 B 100 A 150 A 200 A

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