Current Affairs Q&A PDF

Current Affairs Q&A PDF
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Current Affairs Q&A PDF – November 2023
Table of Contents
NATIONAL AFFAIRS ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ......................................................................................................................................... 36
GOVT SCHEMES ............................................................................................................................................................ 46
VISITS............................................................................................................................................................................. 47
BANKING AND FINANCE ............................................................................................................................................. 51
ECONOMY AND BUSINESS .......................................................................................................................................... 75
MoU’s AND AGREEMENTS .......................................................................................................................................... 83
APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 90
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS ................................................................................................................................ 106
SUMMITS, CONFERENCES ......................................................................................................................................... 125
COMMITTEE AND MEETING .................................................................................................................................... 129
INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................................... 130
ACQUISITION AND MERGERS .................................................................................................................................. 132
DEFENCE...................................................................................................................................................................... 136
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY .................................................................................................................................... 141
SPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 151
BOOKS AND AUTHORS.............................................................................................................................................. 166
OBITUARY ................................................................................................................................................................... 169
IMPORTANT DAYS ..................................................................................................................................................... 176
ENVIRONMENT........................................................................................................................................................... 200
APP and WEB PORTAL.............................................................................................................................................. 204
CURRENT STATIC BANKING .................................................................................................................................... 204
CA STATIC GK ............................................................................................................................................................. 210

NATIONAL AFFAIRS
1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 16th Urban Mobility India
(UMI) Conference & Exhibition 2023 held in October 2023?
A) The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs organised 16th UMI Conference & Exhibition
2023 in collaboration with the Institute of Urban Transport (India) and with the support of
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd.
B) Aishree Boruah, IIT Hyderabad (Telangana) won the 1st prize under the Trophy for best
research paper category.
C) Kochi Smart City Limited receives award for Best Public Transport System for Multimodal
Transport System project
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Answer- 2) Only A & B
Explanation:
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs organized 16th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference
& Exhibition 2023 in collaboration with the Institute of Urban Transport (India) and with the
support of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. The event took place from October 27th to 29th, 2023,
at the Manekshaw Centre, Parade Road, Delhi Cantt, New Delhi, Delhi.
• Aishree Boruah, IIT Hyderabad (Telangana) won the 1st prize under the Trophy for best
research paper category.
• Srinagar Smart City Limited receives award for Best Public Transport System for Srinagar’s
Multimodal Transport System project
• Jabalpur City Transport Services Limited won the City with the Most Innovative Financing
Mechanism for Financial Mechanism award for Sustainable City Bus Services project.
2. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Durga Bharat Samman
2023 Award, as of October 2023?
A) West Bengal (WB) Governor CV Ananda Bose presented the inaugural Durga Bharat
Samman (2023) during the event organised at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata, WB.
B) Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Chandrayaan
Team of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) & Visva-Bharati University,
Santiniketan (WB) received the Durga Bharat Param Samman awards.
C) During the event, he formally launched the “Mission Kala Kranti”, an initiative aimed at
“promoting the art and culture of West Bengal and India”.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Answer- 5) All A, B & C

Explanation:
West Bengal (WB) Governor CV Ananda Bose presented the inaugural Durga Bharat Samman
(2023) during the event organised at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata, WB.
• During the event, he formally launched the “Mission Kala Kranti”, an initiative aimed at
“promoting the art and culture of West Bengal and India”.
• The government of WB has organised the Durga Puja Carnival, showcasing the iconic idols of
Goddess Durga, on 27th October 2023 in the Red Road, Kolkata, WB.
i. Ahead of the Durga Puja Festivals 2023, Durga Bharat Param Samman awards were presented to:
• Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty for his outstanding contribution to music;
• Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) for its achievements in shipbuilding ;
• Chandrayaan Team of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the success of the
Chandrayaan Mission;
• Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan (WB) for its contribution to education.
ii. The award has a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh for each of the recipients.
3. In which state, Mera Hou Chongba, the annual cultural festival of solidarity was celebrated
on 28th October 2023?
1) Tripura
2) Assam
3) Manipur
4) Mizoram
5) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer- 3) Manipur
Explanation:
On 28th October 2023, People of Manipur celebrated
Mera Hou Chongba, the annual cultural festival of
solidarity in Manipur at the Kangla Palace Compound
in Imphal in Manipur. The event was organised by the
Mera Hou Chongba Thoushil Lup.
i. Manipur Chief Minister(CM) Nongthombam Biren
Singh along with the titular king of Manipur Leishemba
Sanajaoba attended the event.
ii. The festival marks the oneness of the growth of
nationalism in Manipur and celebrates the bond of brotherhood, love, and unity.
iii. The festival has been celebrated in Manipur since the period of Nongda Lairen Pakhangba, the god
king of Manipur(1st century AD).
4. In October 2023, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi launched the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ (MY
Bharat) platform.
MY Bharat is an autonomous body under the _____________ (department) of Government of India
(GoI).
1) Department of Social Justice and Empowerment
2) Department of Rural Development
3) Department of Youth Affairs
4) Department of Higher Education

5) Department of Sports
Answer- 3) Department of Youth Affairs
Explanation:
On 31st October 2023, on the occasion of National Unity Day 2023, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra
Modi launched the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ (MY Bharat) platform for the youth of India during the
program held in Kartavya Path in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The MY Bharat platform encourages youth participation in nation-building efforts, fostering a
sense of responsibility and engagement.
• The program marked the culmination of the “Meri Maati Mera Desh” campaign’s Amrit Kalash
Yatra.
i. MY Bharat is an autonomous body under the Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth
Affairs and Sports(MoYAS), Government of India (GoI).
ii. It serves as a comprehensive government platform for the youth of India, aligning with the GoI’s
goal to offer equitable opportunities to the nation’s youth.
5. Which of the following points is “Incorrect” with respect to the report ‘Road Accidents in
India-2022’ published by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in October
2023?
A) The States and Union Territories (UTs) of India reported a total of 4,61,312 road accidents
during 2022.
B) Uttar Pradesh tops the list of States in Number of Accidents for the 6th consecutive year.
C) Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of road accidents on National Highways in 2022
1) Only A
2) Only B
3) Only C
4) Only A & B
5) Only B & C
Answer- 2) Only B
Explanation:
According to “Road Accidents in India-2022”, the annual report published by the Ministry of Road
Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The States and Union Territories (UTs) of India reported a total of
4,61,312 road accidents during 2022.
i. Tamil Nadu (TN) tops the list of States in Number of Accidents for the 5th consecutive year. TN
has reported 64,105 (13.9%) accidents in 2022.
ii. TN also recorded the highest number of road accidents on National Highways in 2022 with 18,972
accidents (12.5%) followed by Kerala with 17,627 (11.6%) accidents
iii. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of road accident fatalities on the National level in 2022
with 13.9% of fatalities followed by TN (9.8%).
6. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent inauguration by
Prime Minister (PM) of India, Narendra Modi in October 2023?
A) PM launched the “Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana” which aims to benefit more
than 86 Lakh beneficiaries of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana in Maharashtra by providing
them additional Rs 6000 per year..

B) The PM dedicated the 85 Km long, Left bank canal network of the Nilwande Dam/Upper
Pravara dam.
C) PM inaugurated various development projects worth around Rs7500 crore in Shirdi,
Maharashtra & inaugurated the 37th National Games in Goa on 26th October, 2023.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Prime Minister (PM) of India, Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated various development
projects worth around Rs7500 crore in Shirdi, Maharashtra on 26th October, 2023.
• Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the 37th National Games in an official ceremony held
at Pandit JawaharLal Nehru Stadium, Margao, and Goa on 26th October, 2023. Motto: the
motto for the 37th National Games of India is “Get Set Goa''.
• PM launched the “Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana” which aims to benefit more
than 86 Lakh beneficiaries of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana in Maharashtra by providing
them additional Rs 6000 per year.
• The PM dedicated to the 85 Km long, Left bank canal network of the Nilwande Dam is also
called Upper Pravara dam. It is developed at a cost Rs 5177 crore. The idea of Nilwande Dam
was first conceived in 1970.
7. Shiv Nadar has retained the title of India’s Most Generous for the ________ consecutive year in
the Edelgive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023, released in November 2023.
1) 5th
2) 3rd
3) 2nd
4) 4th
5) 6th
Answer- 2) 3rd
Explanation:
On November 2, 2023, Hurun Research Institute and EdelGive Foundation released the Edelgive
Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023 in which Shiv Nadar (78) of HCL Technologies retained the title
of ‘India’s Most Generous‘ for the 3rd consecutive year as he donated Rs 2,042 crore during the
FY2022-23.
• Out of his total donation, Rs 1,774 crore for Arts and Culture and Education.
• Azim Premji, founder chairman of Wipro, is ranked 2nd, as he donated Rs 1,774 crore and
Mukesh Ambani, Chairman & Managing Director of Reliance Industries limited(RIL), is ranked
3rd with a donation of Rs 376 crore.

• Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, became the youngest philanthropist on the list as he
donated Rs 110 crore during FY22-23.
• There are 7 women in the list led by Rohini Nilekani, founder of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies,
is the most generous woman philanthropist as she donated Rs 170 crore during the year.
• With a donation of Rs 47 crore, K Dinesh 69, co-founder of Infosys, was the most generous new
entrant in the list.
8. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the inauguration of
Development Projects in Power and Rail Sector by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in November 2023?
A) PM Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina virtually inaugurated a
Akhaura-Agartala rail line starting from Tripura’s Nischintapur to Gangasagar in Bangladesh
which will connect Agartala (Tripura) with Akhaura (Bangladesh).
B) Both the leaders inaugurated Khulna-Mongla Port rail line which encompasses the
construction of a 65 Km broad gauge rail route that will connect Mongla Port to the existing
rail network in Khulna.
C) Unit-II of Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant was jointly inaugurated under Indian
Concessional Financing Scheme loan of USD 1.6 billion is a 1320 MW (2×660) Super Thermal
Power Plant located in Rampal in Khulna division of Bangladesh.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
On 1st November 2023, Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India and Sheikh Hasina, PM of
Bangladesh, jointly inaugurated three Indian–assisted development projects via video conferencing.
• These 3 projects in the rail and power sector aim to strengthen connectivity and energy
security in India and Bangladesh.
• PM Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina virtually inaugurated a rail
line starting from Tripura’s Nischintapur to Gangasagar in Bangladesh which will connect
Agartala (Tripura) with Akhaura (Bangladesh). This project is also known as Akhaura-
Agartala rail link.
• Khulna-Mongla Port rail line has been inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi &
Sheikh Hasina, PM of Bangladesh which encompasses the construction of a 65 Km broad gauge
rail route that will connect Mongla Port to the existing rail network in Khulna. This marks the
integration of Mongla, the 2nd largest port of Bangladesh, with the broader-gauge (BG) railway
network. The project has been implemented under the Government of India’s concessional
Line of Credit with a total project cost USD 388.92 million.
• Unit-II of Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant was jointly inaugurated by the PM of India
and PM of Bangladesh virtually on November 1, 2023.
• The Maitree Super Thermal Power Project under Indian Concessional Financing Scheme loan
of USD 1.6 billion is a 1320 MW (2×660) Super Thermal Power Plant located in Rampal in
Khulna division of Bangladesh.

9. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with India for
Cooperation in the field of Public Administration and Administrative Reforms for 3 years?
1) Germany
2) United States
3) United Kingdom
4) France
5) Australia
Answer- 4) France
Explanation:
Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) under the Ministry of
Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of India, and Ministry of Public Sector
Transformation & the Civil Service of the French Republic (France) have signed a Letter of Intent
(LoI) for Cooperation in the field of Public Administration and Administrative Reforms for 3 years.
i. Aim: To enhance bilateral partnership between India and France through exchange visits, focused
on administrative reforms, good governance webinars, research publications, capacity building
programs, and replication of good governance practices.
• Under this LoI, a Joint Working Group (JWG) will be established to create a roadmap for
bilateral collaboration.
• Emphasis was laid upon high-level exchanges in the upcoming months.
• India presented Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Maximum Governance –
Minimum Government’ policy.
10. Which government sector enterprise has recently (in Nov ‘23) unveiled the National
Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) and the Energy Efficient Fans Programme (EEFP)?
1) National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
2) Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)
3) National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Ltd (NHPC)
4) Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC)
5) Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)
Answer- 2) Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)
Explanation:
On 2nd November 2023, Union Minister Raj Kumar Singh, Ministry of Power, has unveiled two new
programs of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL): National Efficient Cooking Programme
(NECP) and the Energy Efficient Fans Programme (EEFP), during the event held in New Delhi, Delhi.
• NECP aims to revolutionise cooking practices in India.
• EEFP aims to emphasise the importance and urgency of energy-efficient fans.
i. Under NECP, EESL will distribute 20 Lakh energy-efficient induction cook stoves to reduce the
environmental impact of cooking practices, leading to cleaner air and improved health for the
population.
• EESL collaborated with Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) to facilitate the widespread
adoption of induction cooktops.
ii. Under EEFP, EESL will distribute 1 crore 5-star energy-efficient BLDC (brushless direct current)
fans across India.

11. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Communications has recently (in Nov ‘23)
announced that India will be hosting the World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly
(WTSA) in _________ (year).
1) 2028
2) 2026
3) 2024
4) 2027
5) 2025
Answer- 3) 2024
Explanation:
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Communications announced that India will be hosting
the World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (WTSA) in 2024.
i. WTSA is the governing conference of the International Telecommunication
Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T). It is a quadrennial event (happening once
in 4 years).
• WTSA is one of the three world conferences organized by the ITU.
ii. Other two conferences are:
• World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) – Held once in every three to four years
• World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) – Held once in every four years
Note- WTSA24 will mark a significant step towards the advancements of Fifth Generation(5G) and
Sixth Generation(6G) networks.
12. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved an electrification scheme to
provide electricity facilities to un-electrified rural hamlets and households?
1) Odisha
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Maharashtra
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Jharkhand
Answer- 5) Jharkhand
Explanation:
The Jharkhand Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister(CM) Hemant Soren approved a new
electrification scheme named “Mukhya Mantri Ujjwal Jharkhand Yojana”.
i. The scheme aims to provide electricity facilities to un-electrified rural hamlets and households, as
well as leftover urban areas.
ii. The cabinet has allocated Rs 1,485.39 crore for this scheme.
13. In which city, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal
flagged off the maiden voyage of the vessel “Costa Serena“ in November 2023?
1) Panaji, Goa
2) Kochi, Kerala
3) Chennai, Tamil Nadu
4) Mumbai, Maharashtra
5) Puri, Odisha
Answer- 4) Mumbai, Maharashtra

Explanation:
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) flagged
off the maiden voyage of the vessel “Costa Serena“, the India’s 1st International Cruise Liner at an
event held in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This launch symbolises the dawn of a new era in cruising and
tourism in India.
i. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s “Dekho Apna Desh” initiative to the middle class
to prefer domestic tourism over international tourism.
ii. The Costa Serena was constructed by Fincantieri (Shipbuilding company) at its Sestri Ponente
shipyard in Genoa, Italy and was inaugurated in Marseille, France.
• The Costa Serena is the tenth vessel to join the 17-ship fleet of Costa Crociere (Costa Cruises).
iii. Costa Cruises, Italy, operating under Carnival Corporation, announces domestic sailings in India.
14. Name the country that has recently (in Nov ‘23) announced to fund USD 44.7 million to
strengthen food security and environmental protection in Uttarakhand under India’s ‘The
Hunger Project (THP)’.
1) Japan
2) Norway
3) Germany
4) United States of America
5) Australia
Answer- 2) Norway
Explanation:
The Government of Norway will fund USD 44.7 million to strengthen food security and
environmental protection in Uttarakhand under India’s ‘The Hunger Project (THP)’. This funding
will be valid for 3 years, until September 2026.
• Norway will aid in promoting food security by improving productivity for small-scale
producers of food, and by developing local value chains and markets.
i. THP is a non-profit organization that works to end hunger and extreme poverty across 12 countries
in Africa, Latin America and South Asia. In India, it is currently working in the five states of Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh (MP), Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.
• In Uttarakhand, it will be implemented in 3 districts, 9 blocks, 172 gram panchayats and 145
van panchayats.
15. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) collaborated with the Ministry of Women and
Child Development (WCD) to support the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative?
1) India TV
2) Zee Entertainment Enterprises
3) COLORS
4) Aaj Tak
5) STAR PLUS
Answer- 3) COLORS
Explanation:
India’s leading Hindi General Entertainment Channel (GEC) and Viacom18 Media Private Limited’s
Flagship Channel COLORS has announced a collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child

Development (WCD) to support the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative to raise awareness
about the social evil of girl child abandonment.
i. The collaboration aims to raise awareness around girl child abandonment through their latest social
drama show “Doree” which will be aired from 06th November 2023.
ii. The channel will also raise awareness about the 24-hour emergency toll-free child helpline number
(1098) amongst viewers.
16. In which state/UT, President of India, Droupadi Murmu has recently (in Nov ‘23)
inaugurated a 250-metre ‘Navdurga Path’ skywalk and the remodelled ‘Parvati Bhawan’?
1) Uttar Pradesh
2) Jammu and Kashmir
3) Ladakh
4) Himachal Pradesh
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 2) Jammu and Kashmir
Explanation:
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated a 250-metre ‘Navdurga Path’ skywalk and
the remodelled ‘Parvati Bhawan’ at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Reasi district of Jammu and
Kashmir (J&K).
• The skywalk is a pedestrian flyover that is built at an elevation of 20 feet above the existing
track and cost Rs.15.69 crore.
i. Parvati Bhawan is linked to the skywalk to ensure that pilgrims proceed directly to the shrine after
depositing their luggage.
ii. It has 1,500 lockers that cater to 10,000 to 15,000 pilgrims every day.
17. In November 2023, Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat, unveiled the crest of
the Indian Naval Ship(INS) ________, indigenous under-construction, guided missile destroyer of
Project 15B.
1) INS Dwarka
2) INS Surat
3) INS Sardar Patel
4) INS Valsura
5) INS Agnibahu
Answer- 2) INS Surat
Explanation:
On November 6, 2023, Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat, unveiled the crest of the
Indian Naval Ship (INS) Surat, indigenous under-construction, guided missile destroyer of Project
15B, at the ceremony conducted under the aegis of Western Naval Command by Gujarat Naval Area, in
Surat, Gujarat.
• This is the 1st capital warship to be named after the city of Gujarat and this is also the first time
that unveiling of the crest of a warship is held in the city. it has been named after.
i. The Crest of INS Surat features,
• The famous lighthouse at Hazira (Surat) is located at the southern entrance of the Gulf of
Khambhat. The lighthouse of Hazira, built in 1836, was one of the first lighthouses in India.
• Asiatic lion, the state animal of Gujarat, symbolises the ship’s majesty and strength.

Wavy sea depicting the Indian navy’s commitment to maritime security and national defence.
18. In November 2023, Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW)
Manoj Ahuja launched Krishi 24/7, India’s first AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered solution for
automated agricultural news monitoring and analysis.
Which company/ Non-profit developed the Krishi 24/7, in collaboration with Department of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW)?
1) Happiest Minds Technologies
2) Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence
3) Persistent Systems
4) Zensar Technologies Limited
5) Kellton Tech Solutions Limited
Answer- 2) Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence
Explanation:
On November 6, 2023,Manoj Ahuja, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW)
launched Krishi 24/7, India’s first AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered solution for automated
agricultural news monitoring and analysis.
i. It is developed by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), MoA&FW in
collaboration with Mumbai, Maharashtra-based Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence
(Wadhwani AI) with support from Google.org.
ii. This real-time monitoring system assists the Ministry of Agriculture in staying updated on relevant
events, allowing them to create alerts and take prompt action in the agricultural ecosystem.
19. Which state/UT’s police has recently (in Nov ‘23) introduced Global Positioning System
(GPS) tracker anklets to monitor the terror-accused people out on bail?
1) Gujarat
2) Maharashtra
3) Uttar Pradesh
5) Delhi
Explanation:
The officials of the State Investigation Agency (SIA) of
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) introduced Global
Positioning System (GPS) tracker anklets to monitor the
terror-accused people out on bail.
• With this, J&K Police became the first police
department in India to make use of GPS tracker
anklets.
• The tracker is a wearable device affixed around
the ankle to track the movement of accused persons.
i. The device is already in use in countries like the United States of America (USA), the United
Kingdom (UK), South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

20. Name the minister that has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched ‘Jal Diwali – Water for Women,
Women for Water’ awareness campaign under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT) in partnership with National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM).
1) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
2) Ministry of Jal Shakti
3) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
4) Ministry of Home Affairs
5) Ministry of Rural Development
Answer- 1) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Explanation:
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched ‘Jal Diwali – Water for Women,
Women for Water’ awareness campaign under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT), flagship scheme of MoHUA, in partnership with National Urban
Livelihoods Mission (NULM).
• Jal Diwali, the first phase of the Water for Women, Women for Water campaign, will be held
from 7th to 9th November 2023.
• Odisha Urban Academy is the knowledge partner of this campaign.
i. The campaign empowers women in water governance by offering firsthand insights into water
treatment processes and safe drinking water distribution through visits to local Water Treatment
Plants (WTPs) in their cities.
ii. The campaign aims to instill ownership and responsibility for water infrastructure.
• The Phase I will include the participation from all states and Union Territories (UTs) — except
the 5 states under Model Code of Conduct. Around 15000 Self Help Groups (SHG) women
across India are expected to participate in the campaign.
21. In November 2023, Union Minister of Finance, Nirmala Sitharaman launched phase IV of
___________ (operation) by Indian Customs in collaboration with Regional Intelligence Liaison
Offices (RILO) Asia-Pacific and RILO Middle-East to curb the illegal trade of Timber including
Red Sanders.
1) Operation Pawan
2) Operation Bharat
3) Operation Shivalik
4) Operation Sesha
5) Operation Mand
Answer- 4) Operation Sesha
Explanation:
The Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance (MoF) launched phase IV of ‘Operation
Sesha’ by Indian Customs in collaboration with Regional Intelligence Liaison Offices (RILO) Asia-
Pacific and RILO Middle-East to curb the illegal trade of Timber including Red Sanders.
• Operation Sesha was launched in 2015 by DRI to combat precious wood smuggling, involved
17 countries, including Malaysia, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, China, Nepal, Myanmar, Vietnam,
Maldives, Pakistan, and the Philippines.
• Red Sanders, native to Andhra Pradesh (AP), is regulated by the State, and after a December
2022 amendment to the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, it is listed in Schedule IV.

• The operation is named after the Seshachalam forest of India, AP to which the Red Sanders
species is endemic.
22. Union Minister of Labour and Employment Bhupender Yadav, virtually inaugurated the
___________ Foundation Day of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on 1st
November 2023.
1) 74th
2) 71st
3) 69th
4) 75th
5) 70th
Answer- 2) 71st
Explanation:
On 1st November 2023, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Labour and Employment
(MoLE), virtually inaugurated the 71st Foundation Day of the Employees’ Provident Fund
Organisation (EPFO) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Delhi.
i. The event witnessed the launches of various initiatives and the distribution of the Bhavishya Nidhi
Award 2023 to various offices and establishments.
• The Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2023 was presented during the 71st EPFO Foundation Day.
• The award recognises the offices and establishments for their contributions and performance.
List of Awardees of Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2023
Note- EPFO is under the administrative control of the MoLE, Government of India (GoI).
23. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the National Symposium on
‘Promoting Organic Products through Cooperatives’ held at New Delhi, Delhi in November
2023?
A) The one-day National Symposium on ‘Promoting Organic Products through Cooperatives’
organised by the National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL), in New Delhi, Delhi.
B) During the event, Union Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah launched the ‘Bharat Organics’
brand of NCOL, a newly established cooperative body to promote organic produce.
C) 6 organic products (tur dal, chana dal, sugar, rajma, basmati rice, and Sonamasoori rice)
under Bharat Organics brand were launched during the event.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
On 8th November 2023, Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Cooperation launched the ‘Bharat
Organics’ brand of National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL), a newly established cooperative
body to promote organic produce.
• The brand was launched during the one-day National Symposium on ‘Promoting Organic
Products through Cooperatives’ organised by NCOL, in New Delhi, Delhi.

i. Union Minister Amit Shah also launched the NCOL’s logo, website, brochure, and membership
certificates to 5 cooperative societies.
ii. 6 organic products under ‘Bharat Organics' brand were launched during the event.
• The 6 products are, tur dal, chana dal, sugar, rajma, basmati rice, and Sonamasoori rice.
• These products will be sold through 150 Mother Dairy’s Safal outlets and online platforms.
• A total of 20 organic products will be launched by December 2023 and the benefits will be
directed towards the farmers producing them.
iii. Under the concept of “Organic Under One Roof”, a retail outlet network of all organic products was
also initiated.
iv. Amit Shah also launched the website of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) Soil
Limited, a subsidiary of NDDB for manure management and organic fertilizer produced from the
NDDB’s Varanasi biogas plant, Uttar Pradesh.
24. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the World Food India (WFI
2023) held at New Delhi, Delhi in November 2023?
A) Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2nd edition of World Food India (WFI
2023) which was organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industry(MoFPI).
B) Manav, a probot/food processing robot, is the Mascot for WFI 2023.
C) During the inaugural event, PM Modi announced a seed capital aid of Rs 380 crore to
support over 1 lakh Self-Help Group (SHG) members.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Answer-4) Only A & C
Explanation:
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2nd edition of World Food India (WFI 2023), the
biennial Mega Food Event, on November 3, 2023, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
• The event held from November 3-5, 2023 was organised by the Ministry of Food Processing
Industry(MoFPI). PM Modi also inaugurated Food Street as part of World Food India 2023.
• Mascot: MillInd, a probot/food processing robot, is the Mascot for WFI 2023.
• During the inaugural event, PM Modi announced a seed capital aid of Rs 380 crore to support
over 1 lakh Self-Help Group (SHG) members.
• During WFI 2023, Global and domestic investors have committed an investment of Rs 33,129
crore in India's food processing sector. MoFPI and various industry entities signed a
Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth Rs 33,129 crore during the event.
• On 3rd November 2023, the MoFPI signed 16 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth Rs
17,990 crore with several organisations.
• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under
the Ministry of Commerce, GoI, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lulu
Hypermarket LLC, a global retail giant, to enhance the export of Indian agricultural products,
including millets, to the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCCs).

• Ahmedabad, Gujarat-based HyFun Foods has signed a MoU with Lulu Group International to
produce and supply an exclusive range of frozen food products under the private label brand
'Lulu.'
25. Which Financial Institution/Regulatory Body of India has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an
MoU with the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) to
promote women-led enterprises in India?
1) Reserve Bank of India
2) Export - Import Bank of India
3) National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
4) Small Industries Development Bank of India
5) Securities and Exchange Board of India
Answer- 4) Small Industries Development Bank of India
Explanation:
The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) and the Small
Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
promote women-led enterprises in India. The MoU is set to span 2 years.
i. Under this MoU, the expertise of DAY-NRLM and SIDBI will be utilised to develop a transformative
initiative to promote women-led enterprises among experienced members of Self Help Groups (SHGs).
ii. The partnership aims to demonstrate on-the-ground activities that establish a reliable and sensitive
support structure for the capacity enhancement of women entrepreneurs (WEs).
iii. This also aims to establish standard protocols, systems, and procedures for streamlined access to
formal finance and to develop a comprehensive framework for new financial products and schemes.
Note: DAY-NRLM functions under the Ministry of Rural Development(MoRD).
26. Which of the following Institute/companies has/have recently (in Nov ‘23) signed MoU with
Indian Institute of Skills to empower and prepare the youth for the aerospace and defence
sector?
1) Dassault Aircraft Services India Private Limited
2) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur
3) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
4) Both 1 & 2
5) All 1, 2 & 3
Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
On 9th November 2023, Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh-UP) has signed
Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur;
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL); and Dassault Aircraft Services India Private Limited(DASI).
• These MoUs aim to empower and prepare the youth of UP for the aerospace and defence
sector, particularly to support the Defence Industrial Corridor in UP.
i. Under the partnership with Dassault Aviation, a course in Aeronautical Structure and Equipment
Fitter (AS&EF) will be started at IIS.
• This will offer long-term training in the aviation sector in Kanpur.
ii. Under this partnership, Dassault Aviation Centre of Excellence is being established in the IIS
Kanpur Campus to offer Aeronautical Vocational Training.

iii. Under a strategic partnership, HAL will develop a training infrastructure for a Computer Numerical
Control (CNC) lab at IIS Kanpur.
• This is a part of HAL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
• This aims to offer IIS Kanpur's faculties and trainees exposure to advanced CNC machining
technology.
27. Name the Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven chatbot that has been recently (in Nov
‘23) launched by Anindita Mitra, Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Chandigarh Smart City
Limited (CSCL).
1) Replika
2) BIRBAL
3) Srinidhi
4) Jugalbandi
5) AMULYA
Answer- 2) BIRBAL
Explanation:
Anindita Mitra, Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Chandigarh Smart City Limited (CSCL),
launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven chatbot “BIRBAL” to provide a one-stop
platform for citizens to access information and services.
• The BIRBAL is developed using CoRover.ai, a generative AI-powered conversational AI
platform.
• The chatbot provides accurate information and guide citizens to the appropriate
resources.
• It is incorporated with various features such as voice assistance, live agent support, and
AI-based response updates.
28. Which state has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched the 'Water Smart Kid' campaign, an
initiative under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)?
1) Jharkhand
2) Assam
3) West Bengal
4) Meghalaya
5) Odisha
Answer- 4) Meghalaya
Explanation:
Meghalaya Chief Minister (CM) Conrad K Sangma launched the 'Water Smart Kid Meghalaya'
campaign, an initiative under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), which focuses on educating children about
water conservation and protection and aims to instill a sense of responsibility as Water Conservation
Ambassadors.
• During the event, the CM and Marcuise Marak, the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister
recognised and awarded the “Water Guardians,” for inspiring efforts in the conservation of
water bodies.

• The recipients of this award were the Lumshyiap Village Water and Sanitation Committee
(VWSC) in Ri Bhoi District, Darechikgre VWSC, and Dura Kantragre VWSC in West Garo Hills
District.
• The Meghalaya government has addressed water conservation and sustainability through
various interventions, supported by Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) and the Ministry of Jal
Shakti.
• Under JJM, Meghalaya has been awarded as "best performer" by the Ministry of Jal Shakti with
additional incentives sanctioned.
29. In November 2023, the Ministry of Coal amended the SHAKTI Policy to grant coal linkage
for a minimum of _______ months to a maximum of one year.
1) Two
2) Three
3) Four
4) Six
5) Five
Answer- 2) Three
Explanation:
The Ministry of Coal has amended the SHAKTI (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala (Coal)
Transparently in India) Policy, which allows power plants, including private generators without
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to be granted coal linkage for a minimum of three months to a
maximum of one year.
i. Features of the Amendment:
• The amendment aims to enhance a more transparent coal allocation mechanism by providing
that the power generated through coal linkages must be sold through power exchanges or a
transparent bidding process on the Discovery of Efficient Energy Price (DEEP) portal.
• This amendment is expected to improve the availability and affordability of coal for power
generation and enhance the overall efficiency of the sector.
ii. About the SHAKTI Policy:
• The Ministry of Coal introduced the Coal Linkage Policy known as Scheme for Harnessing and
Allocating Koyala (Coal) Transparently in India (SHAKTI) in 2017 for the allocation of coal
among thermal power plants transparently and objectively.
• The Policy provides coal linkages to power plants which lack fuel supply agreements (FSAs)
through coal auctions.
30. Name the ministry that has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved the Digital Advertisement Policy,
2023 to enable and empower the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC).
1) Ministry of Communications
3) Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
4) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
5) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Answer- 5) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting

Explanation:
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has approved the Digital Advertisement
Policy, 2023 to enable and empower the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), the advertising
wing of the Government of India (GoI) that operates under the MIB, to conduct campaigns in the
Digital Media Space.
• This policy highlights CBC’s mission to disseminate information and create awareness about
various schemes, programs, and policies of the GoI.
• Acknowledging the transforming media landscape, the policy aligns with the increasing
digitisation of media consumption.
Note- CBC is committed to adapting to the changing media landscape and embracing new
technologies to reach a wider audience.
i. Digital Advertisement Policy 2023, formulated after extensive discussions with multiple
stakeholders, outlines the roadmap for enhancing the Digital Outreach of the GoI.
ii. The Policy acknowledges the ever-evolving digital landscape, granting CBC the authority to
integrate New and Innovative Communication Platforms in the Digital Space, subject to committee
approval.
31. Which country’s Navy, along with Indian Navy has recently (in Nov ‘23) conducted the 4th
edition of the BONGOSAGAR 23, and the 5th edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in the
Northern Bay of Bengal?
1) Sri Lanka
2) France
3) Bhutan
4) Bangladesh
5) Indonesia
Answer- 4) Bangladesh
Explanation:
The 4th edition of the Bilateral Exercise between the
Indian Navy(IN) and Bangladesh Navy(BN),
BONGOSAGAR 23, and the 5th edition of Coordinated
Patrol (CORPAT) by the two navies was conducted from
7th to 9th November 2023 in the Northern Bay of Bengal.
i. Regular bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols have
strengthened mutual understanding and cooperation
between the two navies.
ii. The Bongo Sagar exercise was first conducted in 2019 while the 1st edition of IN-BN CORPAT was
held in 2018.
iii. Participants:
• IN- Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kuthar, an indigenously built guided-missile Corvette, INS Kiltan,
an indigenously built anti-submarine Corvette, and Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) Dornier
• BN– Bangladesh Navy Ship (BNS) Abu Bakr, Abu Ubaidah and Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA)
Dornier.

32. In November 2023, Innovations for Defence Excellence(iDEX), Government of India and the
United States Department of Defence (USDoD), Government of the United States of America
(USA) organised the ______India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X) Investors Meet at
New Delhi, Delhi.
1) 5th
2) 2nd
3) 1st
4) 4th
5) 3rd
Answer- 3) 1st
Explanation:
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Department of Defence Production(DDP),
Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India and the United States Department of
Defence (USDoD), Government of the United States of America(USA) organised the 1st India-US
Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X) Investors Meet on 8 November 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The meet was organised as a pre-cursor of the 5th annual India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
held on 10th November 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The INDUS-X Educational Series (Gurukul) was also launched during the event.
i. The first-ever INDUS-X Investors Event generated the interest of investors in the start-ups and
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the defense sector.
ii. The meeting also clarified the growing opportunities under the INDUS-X initiative.
33. In November 2023, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) approved the detailed Project
Reports (DPRs) of SJVN Ltd for Etalin HydroElectric Power (HEP) and Attunli HEP in __________
(state).
1) Odisha
3) Sikkim
4) Assam
5) West Bengal
Answer- 2) Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation:
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Ministry of Power has approved the detailed Project Reports
(DPRs) of SJVN Ltd (formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam) for its two Hydro Projects in
Arunachal Pradesh (AR).
• The projects are 3097 MW (Mega Watt) Etalin HEP (HydroElectric Power) & 680 MW Attunli
HEP which are worth around Rs 40,000 crore.
• In this regard, CEA has transferred the concurrences of the DPRs in favor of SJVN Ltd, and has
also extended the validity of these concurrences.
i. The project cost of Etalin HEP at March 2022 price level is Rs 32,813 crore and for Attunli HEP it is
Rs 6,866 crore.
ii. The 3,097 MW Etalin HEP is the largest hydro project under development in India.
iii. On commissioning, the 3097 MW Etalin HEP will generate 12,752 Million Units of electricity and
680 MW Attunli HEP will generate 2,814 Million Units.

34. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States (US) Centres for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) jointly released the Progress Toward Measles Elimination-
Worldwide, 2000–2022 report in November 2023.
In 2022, around ________ lakh children in India missed their Measles-containing-vaccine first-
dose (MCV1).
1) 19
2) 25
3) 36
4) 11
5) 40
Answer- 4) 11
Explanation:
According to “Progress Toward Measles Elimination- Worldwide, 2000–2022”, a new report released
by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States (US) Centres for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), around 11 lakh children in India missed their Measles-containing-vaccine first-
dose (MCV1) in 2022.
• Globally, India is featured among the top 10 countries with the highest number of children who
missed their 1st dose.
• In 2022, 37 countries that witnessed large or disruptive outbreaks where India reported
around 40,967 measles.
• The 10 countries with the highest number of infants who did not receive MCV1 were Nigeria
(30 lakh), Democratic Republic of the Congo (18 lakh), Ethiopia (17 lakh), India (11 lakh),
Pakistan (11 lakh), Angola (8 lakh), Philippines (8 lakh), Indonesia (7 lakh), Brazil (5 lakh), and
Madagascar (5 lakh).
• 10 countries accounted for 55% of all children worldwide who did not receive MCV1.
• In 2022, Maharashtra reported 13 measles-related deaths in 2022.
• Global first-dose measles vaccination coverage increased from 72% in 2000 to 86% in 2019,
declined to 81% in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and slightly improved to 83% in
2022.
35. Which state/UT’s Seabuckthorn has recently (in Nov ‘23) got Geographical Indication (GI)
tag status?
1) Uttarakhand
3) Himachal Pradesh
4) Ladakh
5) Sikkim
Answer- 4) Ladakh
Explanation:
The Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), a thorny shrub or small tree in the Union Territory
(UT) of Ladakh received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag under “Agriculture” goods category. This
becomes the 4th GI product of Ladakh.
i. The GI tag was granted by the GI Registry, operating under the Department for Promotion of
Industry & Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoCI).

ii. With this, the Department of Industries & Commerce, Leh, UT Ladakh is the registered proprietor
of the G.l. “Ladakh Seabuckthorn” in respect of Seabuckthorn falling in Class – 31.
iii. Sea buckthorn, an actinorhizal plant of the family Elaegnaceae has the unique characteristics to
grow in marginally fertile soil of cold desert. It is also known as Sandthorn, Sea berry, Golden Bush,
and Leh berry.
36. Name the governor of the state who has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved the Bill Raising
Quota for Backward Classes to 65% from 50%?
1) Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel (Madhya Pradesh)
2) Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar (Bihar)
3) C.P. Radhakrishnan (Jharkhand)
4) Bandaru Dattatraya (Haryana)
5) Anandiben Patel (Uttar Pradesh)
Answer- 2) Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar (Bihar)
Explanation:
On November 17, 2023, the Governor of Bihar, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, approved the Bihar
reservation amendment bill 2023, passed recently by the Bihar Legislative Assembly and Council
during the winter session.
i. This bill raises the quota for deprived castes (Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST),
Economically Backward Classes (EBC) and Other Backward Classes (OBC)) from 50% to 65% in state
government jobs and educational institutions.
ii.Along with the existing 10% quota for economically weaker sections (EWS), the total quantum of
reservation will now stand at 75% in Bihar.
iii. According to the bill, quota for Extremely Backward Class (EBC) will be raised from 18% to 25%;
for Backward Class (BC) from 12% to 18%; for SC from 16% to 20%; and for ST, the quota will be
doubled, from 1% to 2%.
The 3% reservation for BC women has been scrapped.
37. In November 2023, the Indian government approved investments worth USD ________ in the
Information Technology (IT) hardware sector under its flagship manufacturing incentives
scheme.
1) 500 million
2) 640 million
3) 450 million
4) 360 million
5) 600 million
Answer- 4) 360 million
Explanation:
The Indian government has approved investments worth USD 360 million in the Information
Technology (IT) hardware sector under its flagship manufacturing incentives scheme to boost
India’s position in the global electronics supply chain .
i. This announcement comes as a major step towards realizing India’s ambitious target of becoming a
USD 300 billion IT hardware manufacturing hub by 2026.
ii. The approved investments are spread across 27 companies, including global giants like Dell, HP,
and Foxconn, as well as domestic manufacturers like Dixon Technologies and VVDN.

38. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Senior Citizens Savings
Scheme (SCSS)?
A) In November 2023, Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), under the Ministry of Finance,
notified 7 changes in the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme(SCSS).
B) The government has provided 6 months to invest in SCSS for individuals aged above 52 but
below 62.
C) The notification has relaxed the norms on premature withdrawals from SCSS, as now, 1% of
the deposit will be deducted if the account is closed before the expiry of 1 year of the
investment.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Answer- 4) Only A & C
Explanation:
On 7th November 2023, Department of Economic Affairs(DEA), under the Ministry of Finance, notified
7 changes in the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme(SCSS), a government-sponsored savings instrument
for individuals aged 60 years or employees aged 55 years or more but less than 60 years.
• The government has provided 3 months to invest in SCSS for individuals aged above 55 but
below 60. At present, the investment has to be made within 1 month of receipt of retirement
benefits.
• The maximum deposit limit for SCSS has been enhanced to Rs 30 lakh from Rs 15 lakh
effective from 1st April 2023. This was announced in Budget 2023.
• The notification has relaxed the norms on premature withdrawals from SCSS. Now, 1% of the
deposit will be deducted if the account is closed before the expiry of 1 year of the investment.
• Previously, if the account was closed before the expiry of 1 year, interest paid on the deposit in
the account was to be recovered from the deposit and the entire balance was paid to the
account holder.
39. In November 2023, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD),

Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), has announced a _______ interest rate
rebate for divyang, receive financial support through the National Divyangjan Finance and
Development Corporation (NDFDC).
1) 5%
2) 3%
3) 1%
4) 2%
5) 4%
Answer- 3) 1%
Explanation:
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD),
under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), has announced a 1% interest rate
rebate for divyang (Persons with Disabilities- PwDs) who receive financial support through the
National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC).

i. This aims to promote financial inclusion and foster economic empowerment among the divyangjan.
ii. This rebate under NDFDC loan is for timely repayment, and subject to specific terms and conditions.
iii. This initiative highlights the Central Government’s goal is to make financial assistance more
accessible and affordable for PwDs, and uplift and empower every section of society.
40. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) collaborated with Council of Scientific
and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
as knowledge partners to promote research and innovation in the medical sector?
1) Maharashtra
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Bihar
5) Uttar Pradesh
Answer- 5) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has collaborated with institutions like the Council of Scientific
and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) as
knowledge partners to incorporate the proposed Bulk Drugs Park in Lalitpur district, UP.
• Bulk Drugs Park in Lalitpur aims to integrate technology along with research and innovation to
provide high-quality and affordable medicines and medical devices.
• The UP govt has signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with 43 labs of CSIR and 46 labs
of DRDO, where research work will be done to manufacture affordable medicines.
i. Objective: The collaboration aims to enhance research and innovation in the medical sector
and will further enable the development of innovative devices through new technology, allowing for
quick diagnosis of serious illnesses and ensuring proper treatment.
41. Name the state government that has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched a “Food Security
Campaign” to achieve Zero Hunger by 2030.
1) West Bengal
2) Tripura
3) Assam
4) Meghalaya
5) Odisha
Explanation:
Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, launched
the “Food Security Campaign” to sensitise the public about the National Food Security Act (NFSA)
2013 and strive to achieve United Nations(UN)’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 – ‘Zero
Hunger’ by 2030.
• The campaign aims to ensure that the poorest of the poor have access to food grains by
reaching out to key stakeholders.
i. As part of the campaign, the people will be inform about the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC),
the Redressal System, the toll-free helpline number 1967, the use of the electronic point of sale (ePoS)
and the linking of Aadhaar card and registered mobile number with their ration card.

ii. The campaign will reach out to the general public about the Antyodaya Anna Yojna (AAY) and
Priority Households under National Food Security Act of 2013.
42. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the State Educational
Achievement Survey (SEAS) 2023 conducted in November 2023?
A) The SEAS 2023 was successfully conducted by Performance Assessment, Review and
Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH), among students in grades 3, 6, and
9 to identify areas where learning needs improvement.
B) The survey was conducted in collaboration with the Central Board of Secondary Education
(CBSE) to track the learning progress and Quality of Teaching.
C) The State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and the Samagra Shiksha
Abhiyan (SSA) were responsible for organising the survey in the sampled schools in their
respective states.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The State Educational Achievement Survey (SEAS) 2023 was successfully conducted on 3rd
November 2023 among students in grades 3, 6, and 9 to identify areas where learning needs
improvement.
• This is the 1st survey conducted by the Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of
Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH), the national assessment regulator.
• Objective: To assess the learning competencies of students at the end of each educational
stage, i.e., foundational, preparatory, and middle with a primary focus on Language and
Mathematics
i. The SEAS 2023 surveyed 80 lakh students, 6 lakh teachers, and over 3 lakh field investigators in
5917 blocks across India. All states and Union Territories(UTs), excluding six states – Chhattisgarh,
Delhi, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan and West Bengal (WB), participated in the survey.
ii. The survey was conducted in collaboration with National Council of Educational Research and
Training (NCERT), New Delhi, under the aegis of the Ministry of Education (MoE) to track the
learning progress.
iii. The State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and the Samagra Shiksha
Abhiyan (SSA) were responsible for organising the survey in the sampled schools in their respective
states.
43. In November 2023, the Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission of ___________ (state) was selected
for the global list of Case Studies of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
1) Maharashtra
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Gujarat

Answer- 3) Kerala
Explanation:
Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission of Kerala was selected for the global list of Case Studies of
United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). UNWTO’s recognition will further inspire
Kerala’s RT mission to promote eco-friendly tourism.
i. Apart from Kerala’s RT Mission, Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve project is the only
other Indian case study to be featured in this UNWTO list.
ii. The 2 Indian case studies are among the 7 G20 (group of 20) countries to feature on the UNWTO list
which includes Mexico, Germany, Mauritius, Turkey, Italy, Brazil and Canada, being the others.
44. Name the company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) formed a strategic partnership with the
Survey of India (SoI) to create a three-dimensional (3D) digital twin-mapping programme in
India.
1) Genesys International
2) Indrones Solutions Private Limited
3) GeoSpoc Geospatial Services Limited
4) Tresreis Technologies
5) GIS Matrix Services Limited
Answer- 1) Genesys International
Explanation:
The Survey of India (SoI), the National Survey and Mapping Organization of India, and Genesys
International, an Indian mapping company that provides Geospatial solutions, have formed a
strategic partnership to create a three-dimensional (3D) digital twin-mapping programme in India.
• With this partnership, Genesys thus becomes the 1st company to have a public-private
agreement with SoI for digital twinning.
Note: The 3D digital twin will be used by government departments for new initiatives.
i. This aims to develop digital twins of major cities and towns of India, using Genesys’ all-India highly-
accurate navigable maps, the Genesys constellation of sensors and SOI’s Continuously Operating
Reference Stations (CORS) network (902 stations), which allows for real-time high precision
positioning data.
45. Which state/UT’s Kishtwar Saffron has recently (in Nov ‘23) got Geographical Indication
(GI) tag status?
1) Uttarakhand
3) Himachal Pradesh
4) Ladakh
5) Sikkim
Explanation:
Kishtwar Saffron brand, which is cultivated and harvested in the Kishtwar Region of the Union
Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the GI
Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce
and Industry.


i. This recognition emphasizes the distinctive identity and exceptional quality of saffron grown in the
Kishtwar region. The saffron is cultivated in the elevated terrains of Kishtwar and some parts of
Kashmir.
ii. Kishtwar’s saffron, locally known as Kumkum, is also a key cash crop in Jammu’s isolated
mountainous district of Kishtwar that has high medicinal value.
46. In which city, All India Football Federation (AIFF)-International Federation of Association
Football (FIFA) Talent Academy was inaugurated in November 2023?
2) Bhubaneswar, Odisha
3) Guwahati, Assam
4) Hyderabad, Telangana
5) Ranchi, Jharkhand
Answer- 2) Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Explanation:
Odisha Chief Minister (CM) Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the All India Football Federation (AIFF)-
International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Talent Academy at Kalinga stadium in
Bhubaneswar, Odisha in the presence of Arsene Wenger, Chief of Global Football Development at
FIFA and former Arsenal manager.
i. This strategic initiative is a collaborative effort between AIFF, FIFA, and the Odisha government to
elevate football development in India.
ii. A total of 50 talented football players, including 15 from Odisha, in the Under-14 category, will be
selected for the AIFF-FIFA academy from across India.
iii. The academy will be headed by a FIFA-appointed coach along with various coaches and staff from
AIFF and the Odisha government.
47. In November 2023, India became the Chair of ______________ (Organisation) for 2024.
1) Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
2) International Civil Aviation Organization
3) Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
4) International Sugar Organisation
5) International Olympic Committee
Answer- 4) International Sugar Organisation
Explanation:
On November 24, 2023, India became the Chair of International Sugar Organisation (ISO), apex
international body on sugar and related products, for 2024. This was announced during the 63rd
council meeting of ISO in London, United Kingdom (UK).
• Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution in the Ministry of
Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution attended the meeting.
i. As the Chair of ISO, India will lead the global sugar sector.
ii. India will focus on uniting the members of ISO to adopt more sustainable practices in sugarcane
cultivation, sugar and ethanol production and better utilisation of by-products.
Note- Ethanol blending percentage in India has increased from 5% in 2019-20 to 12% in Ethanol
Supply Year (ESY) 2022–23 (December 2022–October 2023) while the production has increased from
173 crore litres to more than 500 crore litres during the same period.

• The target for ESY 2023–24 (November 2023–October 2024) is 15%.
48. In November 2023, _________ (state) Government declared November 25 as “no non-veg day”
to mark the 144th birth anniversary of Sadhu Thanwardas Lilaram Vaswani.
1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Bihar
3) Gujarat
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has declared November 25 as “no non-veg
day” to mark 144th birth anniversary of Sadhu Thanwardas Lilaram Vaswani.
• The day coincides with the observance of International Meatless Day on November 25.
• The announcement was made after the UP government imposed a ban on the production,
storage, distribution and sale of food products with halal certification.
i. Sadhu Thanwardas Lilaram Vaswani was born on 25th November 1879, in Hyderabad, Sind (now in
Pakistan)and died on January 16, 1966.
ii. He founded the Mira Movement in 1933, with an aim to empower and educate women and set up
St. Mira’s School in Hyderabad (Telangana), Sindh(province of Pakistan).
iii. On 25th November 1986, it was declared that Dada JP Vaswani’s birth anniversary will be
observed annually as International Meatless Day.
49. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent announcement
made by the National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC) in November 2023?
A) The National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC), chaired by Union Minister of
Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri announced a phased-wise mandatory blending
of Compressed Biogas (CBG) in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG).
B) The CBG is to be blended in CNG for transport and PNG for domestic gas segments of the City
Gas Distribution (CGD).
C) The CBG Blending Obligation (CBO) will be implemented in phases, with voluntary
participation until the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024–2025.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC), chaired by Union Minister Hardeep Singh
Puri, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG) announced a phased-wise mandatory
blending of Compressed Biogas (CBG) in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas
(PNG).
• The CBG is to be blended in CNG for transport and PNG for domestic gas segments of the City
Gas Distribution (CGD).

• The CBG Blending Obligation (CBO) will promote the production and consumption of CBG in
India.
i. The CBO will be implemented in phases, with voluntary participation until the Fiscal Year (FY)
2024–2025, followed by mandatory blending obligation from FY 2025–2026.
ii. The initial mandatory blending percentages are set at 1%, 3%, and 4% of total CNG/PNG
consumption for FYs 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 respectively.
• From 2028-29 onwards, the CBO will increase to 5%.
50. In which city, Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan has recently (in Nov ‘23)
inaugurated the Odisha Research Centre (ORC) to develop innovative epistemological
frameworks for the Study of Culture & History?
1) Debagarh
2) Bhubaneswar
3) Rourkela
4) Balasore
5) Khordha
Answer- 2) Bhubaneswar
Explanation:
Union Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education (MoE), has inaugurated Odisha Research
Centre (ORC) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha which aims to develop innovative epistemological
frameworks to explore varied and nuanced dimensions of Odisha’s history, culture, economy and
society.
• The inauguration event also witnessed the presence of Biswabhusan Harichandan (Governor of
Chhattisgarh), Raghubar Das (Governor of Odisha) and Bhartruhari Mahtab(Member of
Parliament from Cuttack constituency).
i. The centre will carry out research in art, culture, archaeology, tradition and literature, sociology of
Odisha, political process and political culture, agriculture, commerce, business and industry,
development trends of contemporary Odisha, science & technology and healthcare, and future
technology.
ii. The Centre will also work on smart cities, climate change, environmental protection and
sustainable development, semiconductors, and rare earths and advanced minerals.
51. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Indo-Pacific Regional
Dialogue 2023 (IPRD-2023) held in November 2023
A) The 5th edition of IPRD-2023 was held with the theme ‘Geopolitical Impacts upon Indo-
Pacific Maritime Trade and Connectivity’ in New Delhi, Delhi.
B) The Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar released a book entitled ‘Building Partnerships –
India and International Cooperation for Maritime Security’ published by National Maritime
Foundation (NMF).
C) The NMF signed 4MoUs of cooperation with four think-tanks in the Indo-Pacific, including
MoU signed with Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE), Nepal.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C

5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The 5th edition of ‘Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2023” (IPRD-2023) was held from November 15-
17, 2023, the three-day annual apex-level regional strategic dialogue of the Indian Navy (IN), in New
Delhi , Delhi, with the theme ‘Geopolitical Impacts upon Indo-Pacific Maritime Trade and
Connectivity’.
• IPRD-2023 Saw Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by National Maritime
Foundation (NMF). It also saw the release of several publications.
• The IPRD-2023 was organised by IN in collaboration with NMF as its knowledge partner.
• IPRD is recognized as maritime counterpart to Raisina Dialogue, highlighting maritime
connectivity’s role in India’s economic progress and the India-Middle-East-Europe Economic
Corridor (IMEC) from the G20 Summit.
• Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar was the Chief Guest for the Commemorative Session
and Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance, delivered the Special Address.
• The Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar released a book entitled ‘Building Partnerships – India
and International Cooperation for Maritime Security’ published by NMF.
• NMF signed MoUs of cooperation with the following four think-tanks in the Indo-Pacific:
• Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE), Nepal;
• Global Centre for Policy and Strategy (GLOCEPS), Kenya
• Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), Vietnam
• The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), New Delhi, Delhi.
52. In November 2023, Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani, Ministry of Women and Child
Development (MoWCD), launched the Anganwadi Protocol for Divyang (disabled) Children in
an event held in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
The protocol provides guidelines for Anganwadi workers to track and help children with
disabilities upto the age of __________.
1) 5
2) 8
3) 6
4) 4
5) 7
Answer- 3) 6
Explanation:
Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani, Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), has
launched the Anganwadi Protocol for Divyang (disabled) Children in an event held in Vigyan Bhawan,
New Delhi, Delhi.
• The protocol provides guidelines for Anganwadi workers to track and help children with
disabilities upto the age of 6.
i. The protocol is an important commitment under the Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi program of Mission
Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.
ii. It provides training to Anganwadi workers. The Anganwadi eco-system reaches out to over eight
crore children on a daily basis. The children can be further tracked through the Poshan tracker.

53. As of November 2023, In which Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), India’s first Telecom
Centre of Excellence (CoE) is set to be established?
1) IIT Delhi
2) IIT Madras
3) IIT Guwahati
4) IIT Roorkee
5) IIT Bombay
Answer- 4) IIT Roorkee
Explanation:
India’s first Telecom Centre of Excellence (CoE) will be established at the Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT) Roorkee campus in Saharanpur, in Uttar Pradesh (UP). The UP Government will
fund around Rs.30 crore for its establishment.
i. The center will focus on connecting 5G technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop
innovative devices and technologies and will also prepare a base for the launch of 6G technologies.
ii. The foundation stone for the same will be laid by the Chief Minister (CM) of UP Yogi Adityanath on
December 5, 2023.
iii. The Objective of Telecom CoE to develop and promote new technology in the field of telecom.
54. In November 2023, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoHFW), rebranded the Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs)
as ‘Ayushman Arogya Mandirs‘.
The funds required for renaming the existing facilities have been proposed at Rs. _________ per
facility.
1) Rs. 5,000
2) Rs. 3,000
3) Rs. 6,000
4) Rs. 1,000
5) Rs. 4,000
Answer- 2) Rs. 3,000
Explanation:
On 25th November 2023, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(MoHFW), rebranded the Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) as ‘Ayushman
Arogya Mandirs‘.
• The rebranded AB-HWCs will carry a new tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
i. MoHFW has instructed all the states to carry out the rebranding process & to complete it by the end
of 2023.
ii. The funds required for renaming the existing facilities have been proposed at Rs. 3,000 per
facility.
iii. The states must upload new photographs of primary health facilities (which carry the new name)
on the AB-HWC portal.
iv. However, the logo of the National Health Mission (NHM) will be retained as such.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
1. Which organisation has recently (in Oct ‘23) released its first data dashboard with key
finding that around 30.51 million hectares (Ha) of healthy land in India that were degraded
from 2015 to 2019?
1) United Nations Environment Programme
2) United Nations Human Settlement Programme
3) United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
4) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
5) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Answer- 3) United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
Explanation:
According to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)’s first data
dashboard, around 30.51 million hectares (Ha) of healthy land in India were degraded from 2015
to 2019.
• Around 9.45% of India’s landmass was degraded as of 2019. This was 4.42% in 2015.
• India’s total degraded land is equivalent to the size of 43 million football pitches.
• According to the UNCCD Data, Between 2015 & 2019, the world lost at least 100 million ha of
healthy and productive land every year.
i. The data also reflected that 251.71 million Indians, 18.39% of the Indian population, faced land
degradation during 2015-2019.
ii. While 854.4 million Indians, 83.85% of the Indian population, were exposed to drought during the
2015-2018 period. This is the sum of the reported area under all drought intensity classes – mild,
moderate, severe and extreme.
iii. The UNCCD’s dashboard, released on 25th October 2023, compiles national reporting figures from
126 countries, which shows that land degradation is advancing at an astonishing rate across all
regions.
2. The ________ edition of the Exercise KAZIND-2023, an annual bilateral exercise between India
and Kazakhstan was commenced at Otar, Kazakhstan on 30th October 2023.
1) 9th
2) 6th
3) 8th
4) 5th
5) 7th
Answer- 5) 7th
Explanation:
Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) participates in the Joint Military ‘Exercise KAZIND-2023’ at
Otar, Kazakhstan. The 7th edition of the KAZIND, an annual bilateral exercise between India and
Kazakhstan, is being held from 30th October till 11th November 2023.
i. 90 personnel led by a Battalion from the DOGRA Regiment of the Indian Army participated in the
exercise
ii. The Indian and Kazakhstan forces conduct Counter Terrorism operations in a sub-conventional
environment under the United Nations(UN) mandate.

iii. The exercise includes rehearsal of various tactical drills including Raid, Search, and Destroy
Operations, Small Team Insertion, and Extraction Operations.
3. In November 2023, ____________became the first country in the world to completely sterilize
and vaccinate its entire stray dog population.
1) Bhutan
2) Nepal
3) France
4) Bangladesh
5) Thailand
Answer- 1) Bhutan
Explanation:
Bhutan became the first country in the world to completely sterilize and vaccinate its entire stray
dog population across Bhutan.
i. ‘National Dog Population Management and Rabies Control Project’ is a 14-year-long project that was
launched in 2009 and completed in 2023.
ii. Under the project, over 150,000 stray dogs were sterilized and 32,000 pet dogs were microchipped.
iii. The program was implemented by a global animal charity called Humane Society International
(HSI).
4. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) become the first foreign company to get GoI’s
approval for 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector?
1) CTT Systems AB
2) Boeing
3) Thales Alenia Space
4) Lockheed Martin
5) Saab AB
Answer- 5) Saab AB
Explanation:
Swedish defence company Saab AB has become the first foreign company to get Government of
India (GoI)’s approval for 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the defence sector.
i. About Saab AB FDI:
• The FDI proposal is valued at around Rs 500 crore.
• With this, Saab is set to establish a facility to manufacture Carl-Gustaf M4 rocket launchers in
India.
• The facility will support the production of the Carl-Gustaf M4 for the Indian Armed Forces as
well as components for users of the system around the world.
• SAAB FFV India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Saab was Incorporated in 2022.
5. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) released the Adaptation Gap Report (AGR)
2023: Underfinanced. Underprepared – Inadequate investment and planning on climate
adaptation leaves the world exposed?
3) United Nations Development Programme


5) World Bank
Answer- 4) United Nations Environment Programme
Explanation:
Adaptation Gap Report (AGR) 2023: Underfinanced. Underprepared – Inadequate investment and
planning on climate adaptation leaves world exposed, released by United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP), reveals a concerning slowdown in the climate adaptation efforts globally.
i. The report states that the climate adaptation finance flows from public multilaterals like the World
Bank and bilateral sources to the developing nations declined by 15% to around USD 21 billion in
2021.
ii. At present, the estimated global adaptation finance gap (difference between needs and actual
financial flows) is USD 194-366 billion per year.
6. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) released the report“2024 Asia-Pacific Human
Development Report: Making Our Future: New Directions for Human Development in Asia and
the Pacific” with key highlighting that India is among the top countries with high income and
highest wealth inequality, despite rapid economic growth?
2) International Monetary Fund
4) Asian Development Bank
5) World Bank
Answer- 3) United Nations Development Programme
Explanation:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released its “2024 Asia-Pacific Human
Development Report: Making Our Future: New Directions for Human Development in Asia and the
Pacific” stating India among the top countries with high income and highest wealth inequality,
despite rapid economic growth.
Highlights:
• Income Growth: Between 2000 and 2022, India’s per capita income increased from USD 442 to
USD 2,389.
• Poverty Reduction: From 2004 to 2019, poverty rates (based on USD 2.15 per day) dropped
from 40% to 10%.
• Multidimensional Poverty: India’s population in multidimensional poverty decreased from
25% to 15% between 2015-16 and 2019-21.
• Persistent Poverty: Despite progress, poverty remains concentrated in states housing 45% of
the population but 62% of the poor.
• Vulnerable Groups: Women, informal workers, and inter-state migrants are at risk of falling
back into poverty.
• Gender Disparity: Women constitute only 23% of the labor force, with growing income
disparity despite rapid economic growth.

7. Which organisation has collaborated with the United Nations (UN) to create a new stamp
collection and first-day envelopes to honour Marie Curie on her 120th birth anniversary,
observed on 7th November 2023?
1) Universal Postal Union
2) World Bank
3) International Trade Centre
4) International Atomic Energy Agency
5) International Organization for Standardization
Answer- 4) International Atomic Energy Agency
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) collaborated to create a
new stamp collection and first-day envelopes to honour Marie Curie (Maria Salomea Skłodowska-
Curie) on her 120th birth anniversary which was observed on 7th November 2023.
i. United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA), the postal agency of the United Nations, has released
a definitive set of stamps featuring Marie Curie portrait and first-day envelopes adorned with a new
IAEA distinctive cachet.
ii. The commemorative envelope also honors the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme
(MSCFP).
8. According to the Global Tuberculosis (TB) Report 2023 released by the World Health
Organization (WHO) in November 2023, __________ people across the globe were newly
diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) in 2022, the highest ever since records began in 1995.
1) 7.5 million
2) 8.4 million
3) 9.6 million
4) 9.0 million
5) 8.2 million
Answer- 1) 7.5 million
Explanation:
According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Tuberculosis (TB) Report 2023, 7.5
million people across the globe were newly diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) in 2022, the highest
ever since records began in 1995.
• However, it also highlights a positive global recovery in TB diagnosis and treatment services in
2022, indicating a reversal of the negative impact caused by COVID-19 disruptions.
• The report assessed data from 192 countries and areas (out of 215) with more than 99% of the
world’s population and TB burden.
i. India, Indonesia, and the Philippines, responsible for over 60% of the global decline in new TB cases
in 2020 and 2021, surpassed 2019 levels of diagnosis in 2022.
ii. Most people who developed TB were in the WHO regions of South-East Asia (46%), Africa (23%)
and the Western Pacific (18%).
Note- The 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB reaffirmed 2018 commitments and set new goals for
2023-2027, including 90% coverage for TB prevention and care, rapid TB tests, comprehensive
benefits for patients, a safe new TB vaccine, and closing funding gaps by 2027.

9. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with India for cooperation on
medical product regulation to enhance the quality of medical products?
1) Russia
2) Netherlands
3) Australia
4) Germany
Answer- 2) Netherlands
Explanation:
On 8th November 2023, India and Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) for
cooperation on medical product regulation to enhance the quality of medical products and health
care services for both nations, at the Hague, Netherlands.
• The MoI was signed during the meeting between Bhagwant Khuba, Minister of State (MoS),
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers(MoC&F) of India and Ernst Kuipers, Minister of Health,
Welfare and Sports of Netherlands.
• During his visit, Bhagwant Khuba, MoS, MoC&F led an Indian delegation to participate in the
2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF 2023) held in the Hague, from 6th to 8th
November 2023.
• During his visit to the Netherlands, Union MoS Bhagwant Khuba, visited the European
Medicines Agency (EMA) and met with Carla van Rooijen, Director of the Pharmaceuticals and
Medical Technology Division.
• He discussed the regulations in the pharmaceutical and medical technology industries.
• He also visited the Port of Rotterdam which is Europe’s largest port and discussed with
Boudwijn Simmons, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, and
officials about the port’s hydrogen hub plans.
Note- The inaugural WLPF was organised virtually from 21-25 June 2021.
10. Which of the following organisations have recently (in Nov ‘23) released the research in the
journal Environment International, estimating that approximately 1 in 3 non-melanoma skin
cancer deaths are attributed to occupational sun exposure?
2) World Health Organization
3) International Labour Organization
4) Both 1 & 2
5) Both 2 & 3
Answer- 5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) agencies, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International
Labour Organization (ILO) have jointly released research in the journal Environment International,
estimating that approximately 1 in 3 non-melanoma skin cancer deaths are attributed to
occupational sun exposure.
• The joint release highlights the burden caused by non-melanoma skin cancer due to
occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation
• It also underscores the need for implementing better preventative measures.

i. The estimates of the release are based on the WHO report The Effect of Occupational Exposure to
Solar UV Radiation on Malignant Skin Melanoma and Non-melanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic
Review and Meta-analysis from the WHO/ILO joint estimates of the work-related burden of Disease
and injury.
ii. According to joint estimates, 1.6 billion people of working age (15 years or older) faced solar UV
radiation at their workplaces in 2019, contributing to 28% of the global workforce.
• The year 2019 witnessed nearly 19,000 fatalities across 183 nations due to non-melanoma
skin cancer resulting from outdoor work. Notably, a significant 65% (majority) were male.
iii. Occupational exposure to solar UV radiation ranks as the 3rd highest work-related risk factor for
cancer deaths worldwide.
11. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) unveiled a new Operational framework for building climate-
resilient and low-carbon health systems to tackle the challenges posed by a rapidly changing
climate?
5) United Nations Children's Fund
Answer- 4) World Health Organization
Explanation:
The World Health Organization (WHO) unveiled a new Operational framework for building climate-
resilient and low-carbon health systems to tackle the challenges posed by a rapidly changing climate.
• The Framework is designed to enhance health systems’ resilience while reducing greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions to help safeguard health communities worldwide.
• It aims to contribute to the design of transformative health systems that can provide safe and
quality care in a changing climate.
Note: The Framework was unveiled ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) scheduled from 30 November to
12 December 2023 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
12. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched an open data platform to streamline
scientific data accessibility for decision-makers, Member States, experts, and the public?
1) United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research
4) World Trade Organization
Answer- 5) International Atomic Energy Agency
Explanation:
On November 14, 2023, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) launched an open data
platform namely ‘IAEA Data Platform’ to streamline scientific data accessibility for decision-makers,
Member States, experts, and the public.
• It consolidates, organises and standardised IAEA data into a single repository, enhancing
transparency, and knowledge.

i. IAEA Data Platform organizes data into three main topics:

• Nuclear Safety and Security
• Nuclear Technology and Applications
• Safeguards and Verification
13. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) released the ‘2nd edition of the World Energy
Employment (WEE 2023) report stating that clean energy jobs surpassed fossil fuel jobs for the
first time in 2021 at the global level?
2) International Renewable Energy Agency
3) International Energy Agency
4) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Answer- 3) International Energy Agency
Explanation:
On November 15, 2023, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released the ‘2nd edition of the World
Energy Employment (WEE 2023) report stating clean energy jobs surpassed fossil fuel jobs for the
first time in 2021 at the global level.
• Clean energy sectors added 4.7 million jobs globally between 2019-2022 and stand at 35
million, while fossil fuels jobs recovered more slowly after layoffs in 2020 and remain around
1.3 million below pre-pandemic employment levels, at 32 million.
• Clean energy jobs now represent over half of all energy sector jobs.
• The report was prepared by the World Energy Outlook Division of the Directorate of
Sustainability, Technology and Outlooks of IEA.
• Data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations Industrial Development
Organization (UNIDO), Economic Research Institute (ERI), and national labour statistics were
utilized.
• This annual report maps energy sector employment by region, fuel, technology, and value
chain. WEE 2023 includes for the first time employment data for the extraction of selected
critical minerals, including copper, cobalt, nickel and lithium.
14. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) withdrawn from the Treaty on Conventional
Armed Forces in Europe (CFE)?
1) Russia
2) Germany
3) France
4) Sweden
5) Norway
Answer- 1) Russia
Explanation:
Russia has formally withdrawn from the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE), a
landmark arms control agreement that sought to limit the deployment of conventional weapons in
Europe.
• The exit of Russia is due to North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) eastward expansion as
a threat to its security.

About CFE:
i. The agreement was signed by 23 participating States – those belonging to NATO and the Warsaw
Treaty Organization (WTO). It was signed in 1990 in Paris, France.
ii. It aims to stop the United States of America and Russia (Cold War rivals) from building up forces
that could be used in a swift assault.
15. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed two agreements with India to boost youth
mobility & cultural exchange?
1) Germany
2) France
3) Spain
4) Italy
5) Australia
Answer- 4) Italy
Explanation:
Dr. S Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) has signed two agreements with the Italian
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani to boost youth mobility &
cultural exchange during his two-day visit to Italy on 2nd-3rd November 2023.
i. The Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement to enable seamless movement of workers,
students and professionals.
ii. The Executive Programme on Cultural Cooperation(EPCC) agreement for the period 2023-27.
• Through EPCC, Italy and India will undergo multiple cultural exchange programs including
exchange of students in language programmes and other academic courses.
• The last EPCC was signed between two countries for the period of three years 2017-2020.
16. In which city, Al Dhafra Solar Photovoltaic(PV) Independent Power Project (IPP), the
world's largest single-site solar power plant has inaugurated in November 2023?
1) Aswan, Egypt
2) Konya, Türkiye
3) Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
4) Doha, Qatar
5) Ibri, Oman
Answer- 3) Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Explanation:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s state-owned Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company) has
inaugurated the world’s largest single-site solar power plant, “2 GigaWatt(GW) Al Dhafra Solar
Photovoltaic (PV) Independent Power Project (IPP)” in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• The Al Dhafra Solar PV project was unveiled by Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of
Abu Dhabi. With this solar power production capacity will increase to 3.2GW.
• This plant will power almost 200,000 homes and eliminate over 2.4 million tonnes of carbon
emissions every year.
• The project was co-developed by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company(TAQA), French power
company EDF Renewables and Chinese solar developer JinkoPower along with procurer
Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC).

17. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the 14th edition of
Emissions Gap Report 2023:Broken Record: Temperatures hit new highs, yet world fails to cut
emissions (again) in November 2023.
As per the 14th edition of Emissions Gap Report 2023, the world must reduce greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions by at least 28-42% by _________ (year) to limit warming to 2°C and 1.5°C,
respectively.
1) 2030
2) 2025
3) 2027
4) 2028
5) 2026
Answer- 1) 2030
Explanation:
As per the 14th edition of Emissions Gap Report 2023:Broken Record: Temperatures hit new highs,
yet world fails to cut emissions (again), released by the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP), the world must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 28-42% by 2030 to
limit warming to 2°C and 1.5°C, respectively.
i. The report warns that if countries fail to reduce GHG emissions, then global temperatures will be
increased by 2.5 to 2.9 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
ii. The report emphasizes that the only way to prevent exceeding the 1.5°C limit is to accelerate
implementation action in this decade.
iii. If GHG emissions reduction is delayed, then this will lead to a greater future reliance on carbon
dioxide (CO2) removal from the atmosphere.
18. Which country’s Angkor Wat has recently (in Nov ‘23) become the Eighth Wonder of the
World?
1) Vietnam
2) Cambodia
3) Thailand
4) Indonesia
5) Myanmar
Answer- 2) Cambodia
Explanation:
Angkor Wat of Cambodia has become the Eighth Wonder of the World by surpassing Italy’s
Pompeii. The recognition of the Eighth Wonder is an informal one bestowed upon noteworthy new
structures, projects, or designs.
• Angkor Wat is an Ancient Hindu Temple Complex located in Siem Reap, Cambodia.It was built
by King Suryavarman II during the 12th century over a time span of 30 years.
• The temple was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, but it later transformed into a
Buddhist temple.
• Angkor Wat is one of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) World Heritage sites. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1992.
i. The Seven Wonders of the World: Taj Mahal Agra (Uttar Pradesh, India), Christ the Redeemer Statue
(Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Colosseum (Rome, Italy), Chichen Itza (Yucatan, Mexico), Great Wall of China
(Beijing, China), Machu Picchu (Cusco, Peru), Petra (Aqaba, Jordan).

19. Name the International Organisation/Union that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU
with India to strengthen semiconductor supply chains and jointly pursue innovation.
3) United Nations Industrial Development Organization
4) African Union
5) European Union
Answer- 5) European Union
Explanation:
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the European Union (EU) and India to
strengthen semiconductor supply chains and jointly pursue innovation.
• Signatories: Thierry Breton, Commissioner for Internal market of the European Union, and
Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways, Communications, Electronics and Information
Technology of the Government of India.
i. Share semiconductor ecosystem experiences, best practices, and information.
ii. Identify collaboration opportunities in research, development, and innovation.
iii. Promote skills and talent development, fostering collaboration through workshops and
partnerships. Ensure a level playing field in the sector, including sharing information on public
subsidies.
20. In which country, the ASEAN-India Millet Festival has recently (in Nov ‘23) organised by the
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) and Indian Mission to the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)?
1) Philippines
2) Indonesia
3) Thailand
4) Vietnam
5) Singapore
Answer- 2) Indonesia
Explanation:
The Indian Mission to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in collaboration with the
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) organised the ASEAN-India Millet Festival
2023 from 22nd to 26th November 2023, in Indonesia.
• The festival was inaugurated in the Kota Kasablanka Mall, in South Jakarta, Indonesia.
• The festival aims to raise awareness and create a market for millets and millets-based products
among the ASEAN Member states.
i. Millet Festival is a part of United Nation(UN)’s International Year of Millets 2023 (IYM 2023)
celebrations. The festival includes an exhibition, panel discussions, and cooking workshops.
ii. ASEAN-India Joint Leaders’ Statement on Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in Response to
Crises was adopted at the 20th ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia on September 7, 2023.

GOVT SCHEMES
1. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Hrudaya
Jyoti Yojana to provide treatment to people experiencing sudden heart attacks and cardiac
issues?
1) Kerala
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Karnataka
4) Telangana
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 3) Karnataka
Explanation:
Dinesh Gundu Rao, Health Minister in Karnataka launched Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Hrudaya Jyoti
Yojana to provide treatment to people experiencing sudden heart attacks and cardiac issues.
• Karnataka's Health Department launched the scheme in memory of Late Kannada Actor
Puneeth Rajkumar, who died in 2021 at the age of 46 due to cardiac arrest.
i. Under this scheme, emergency devices will be installed in public places to cater to those suffering
from heart attacks within the crucial response time.
ii. The government has decided to provide Tenecteplase injections( used to treat myocardial
infarctions (heart attacks)) at free of charge in government hospitals.
2. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved the ‘Abua Awas Yojna’ (AAY), a
housing scheme?
1) Maharashtra
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Odisha
4) West Bengal
5) Jharkhand
Explanation:
The Jharkhand Cabinet led by Chief Minister (CM) Hemant Soren approved the ‘Abua Awas Yojna’
(AAY), a state-supported housing scheme for the poor to build 8 lakhs pucca houses for the homeless
in Jharkhand in 3 phases at a total budget of Rs 16,320 crore.
i. Objective: To provide three-room and 1 kitchen houses with a total area of 31 square meters to
underprivileged individuals within the next two-year timeline.
ii. Phases:
• 2 lakh houses will be constructed in the 1st phase (FY 2023-24);
• 3.5 lakh houses in the 2nd phase (FY 2024-25); and
• 2.5 lakh houses in the 3rd phase (FY 2025-26).
3. In November 2023, Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi announced the extension of the
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) till ___________ (year).
1) 2030
2) 2026

3) 2027
4) 2029
5) 2028
Answer- 5) 2028
Explanation:
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan
Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for another five years while addressing an election rally at Durg in
Chhattisgarh.The scheme which was supposed to be ended by December 2023 will be ending in 2028.
• The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution had declared that the central
government would allocate over ₹2 lakh crore in 2023 for food subsidies under NFSA and
various other welfare programs.
• The scheme was initially rolled out in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• PMGKAY is operated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.This program is a part of the existing Pradhan
Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana welfare initiative.
VISITS
1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to Union Minister of Finance
Nirmala Sitharaman’s visit to Sri Lanka in November 2023?
A) During the visit of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the keynote
address as Guest of Honor at the “NAAM 200” organized by the Government of Sri Lanka to
commemorate the 200th anniversary of IOTs to Sri Lanka on November 2 in Colombo.
B) The Union Minister inaugurated SBI branches in Trincomalee (Eastern Province ) and Jaffna
(Northern Provinces) in Sri Lanka.
C) Finance Minister also addressed the India-Sri Lanka Business Summit held at Hotel Taj
Samudra in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance, was on a three-day official visit to Sri Lanka from 1st
to 3rd November 2023.
• As a part of the visit, she had call-on meetings with Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri
Lanka and Dinesh Gunawardena, Prime Minister (PM) of Sri Lanka.
i. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the keynote address as Guest of Honor at the
“NAAM 200” organized by the Government of Sri Lanka to commemorate the 200th anniversary of
IOTs to Sri Lanka on November 2 in Colombo.
• The event was attended by Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka, Dinesh
Gunawardena, PM of Sri Lanka and other dignitaries.

ii. During her visit from 1st to 3rd November, Finance Minister (FM) Nirmala Sitharaman
inaugurated SBI branches in Trincomalee (Eastern Province ) and Jaffna (Northern Provinces) in Sri
Lanka.
• With these 2 new branches, the total number of SBI branches in Sri Lanka becomes 7.
iii. India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also addressed the India-Sri Lanka Business
Summit held at Hotel Taj Samudra in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
• The summit was jointly organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries(CII), the Indo-
Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
• The theme of the Summit was ”Enhancing Connectivity: Partnering for Prosperity”.
2. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of Dharmendra
Pradhan, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) in November 2023?
A) India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have expanded their educational cooperation by
signing an MoU in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
B) NSDC International has signed an agreement with We One, a subsidiary of DP World, to
support the skill development and employment opportunities for the front-line workforce.
C) National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and EFS Facilities Services Group have
entered into an MoU to facilitate Skilled International Workforce Mobility (IWM) for Indian
nationals, with a specific emphasis on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education(MoE) and Ministry of Skill
Development and Entrepreneurship(MSDE) embarked on a significant 3-day visit to the United Arab
Emirates (UAE) from November 1-3, 2023.
• India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have expanded their educational cooperation by
signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• The MoU aims to enhance collaboration in education, including student and faculty
mobility, exchanging educational information, and fostering academic partnerships
between institutions in both countries.
• NSDC International has signed an agreement with We One, a subsidiary of DP World, to
support the skill development and employment opportunities for the front-line workforce.
• DP World is a Dubai-based multinational logistics company providing smart end-to-end
logistics Solutions.
• National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and EFS Facilities Services Group, a UAE-
based Facilities Management Firm, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
to facilitate Skilled International Workforce Mobility (IWM) for Indian nationals, with a specific
emphasis on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

3. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of Prime Minister(PM)
Narendra Modi to Jharkhand in November 2023?
A) During PM Narendra Modi visit to Jharkhand, he addressed the event, organised to mark the
celebration of 5th Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas 2023 on 13th November 2023 to commemorate the
birth anniversary of Birsa Munda.
B) PM Modi laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 7,200 crores in
various sectors like rail, road, education, coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
C) PM Narendra Modi unveiled a decommissioned Mikoyan Gurevich (MiG-211) fighter jet at
the Raj Bhavan in Ranchi.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Answer- 3) Only B & C
Explanation:
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi paid a 2-day visit to Jharkhand from 15th to 16th November
2023. During his visit, PM Modi participated in the event organised to mark Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas,
2023 in Khunti, Jharkhand.
• He also greeted the people of Jharkhand on the foundation day of Jharkhand (15th November).
• PM Modi addressed the event organised to mark the celebration of 3rd Janjatiya Gaurav
Diwas/ Tribal Pride Day 2023 on 15th November 2023 in Khunti, Jharkhand to
commemorate the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, an iconic freedom fighter.
• PM Modi laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 7,200 crores in various
sectors like rail, road, education, coal, petroleum, and natural gas. These projects aim to
enhance infrastructure and services in Jharkhand.
• During this visit, PM Modi launched two significant initiatives, namely the ‘Viksit Bharat
Sankalp Yatra‘ and the ‘PM Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN)’ from Jharkhand.
• PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PM
PVTG) Mission, allocating Rs 24,000 crore for the comprehensive development of
approximately 28 lakh individuals belonging to 75 PVTGs across India.
• During the 3rd Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, PM Modi digitally released the 15th instalment of the
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme at Birsa College in Khunti,
Jharkhand.
• PM Narendra Modi unveiled a decommissioned Mikoyan Gurevich (MiG-211) fighter jet at the
Raj Bhavan in Ranchi. The event was attended by Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan and
Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
4. Which of the following is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of Piyush Goyal, Union
Minister of Commerce and Industry to San Francisco,United States (U.S) in November 2023?
A) Union Minister Piyush Goyal represented India at the Partnership for Global Infrastructure
and Investment (PGII) – IPEF Investor Forum meeting on November 16, 2023.
B) The MoU was signed between India and The U.S. during the roundtable titled “Decoding the
Innovation Handshake: U.S.-India Entrepreneurship Partnership in San Francisco, U.S.

C) Minister also represented India at the 30th APEC Leaders’ Summit hosted by the U.S held in
San Francisco.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Distribution and Textiles was on a Four-day official visit to San Francisco, United States (U.S) from
November 13-16, 2023.
• He participated in the 3rd in-person IPEF Ministerial meeting from November 13-14, 2023.
• Union Minister Piyush Goyal represented India at the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and
Investment (PGII) – IPEF Investor Forum meeting on November 16, 2023.
• Piyush Goyal, Union Minister also represented India at the APEC Economic Leadership
Engagements from 15-16 November, 2023. India has been invited to the 30th APEC Economic
Leaders Meeting 2023 as a Guest Economy.
• The MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between India and The U.S. during the
roundtable titled “Decoding the “Innovation Handshake :U.S.-India Entrepreneurship
Partnership” in San Francisco ,U.S.
• During the meeting, the first-of-its-kind IPEF Supply Chain resilience agreement was signed
by the minister along with ministers from 14 other IPEF partner countries. The agreement
aims to make IPEF supply chains more resilient, robust and well integrated, and contribute
towards economic development and progress of the region as a whole.
• The U.S. hosted the 30th APEC Leaders Summit which was held in San Francisco. Apart from
21-member countries of APEC, India attended the summit as Guest Economy. Piyush Goyal,
Minister of Commerce and Industry represented India at the summit.
• Theme APEC Summit 2023: “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All”.
5. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of President of India,
Droupadi Murmu to Odisha and Andhra Pradesh (AP) in November 2023?
A) President Droupadi Murmu attended the inaugural session of the 36th Annual Conference
and Literary Festival of All India Santali Writers Association at Baripada, Mayurbhanj district,
Odisha.
B) President along with Arjun Munda, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs (MoTA) inaugurated
the new Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) campus at Kuliana, Mayurbhanj (Odisha).
C) President addressed the 42nd Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning
held at Sai Hira Convention Hall in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A

Explanation:
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, was on an official visit to Odisha and Andhra Pradesh (AP)
from November 20 to 22, 2023. During her visit,
• On 20th November 2023, President Droupadi Murmu attended the inaugural session of the
36th Annual Conference and Literary Festival of All India Santali Writers Association at
Baripada, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• During her visit (on 20th November 2023), President Droupadi Murmu along with Arjun
Munda, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs (MoTA) inaugurated the new Eklavya Model
Residential School (EMRS) campus at Kuliana, Mayurbhanj (Odisha).
• President Droupadi Murmu flagged off 3 new trains from Badampahar railway station in
Mayurbhanj, Odisha.
• The 3 new trains are:
• Badampahar-Tatanagar MEMU(Mainline Electric Multiple Unit)
• Badampahar-Rourkela Weekly Express
• Badampahar-Shalimar Weekly Express
• President Droupadi Murmu launched the Education Campaign titled “New Education for New
India '' of Brahma Kumaris in Sambalpur, Odisha. The event was organised by Brahma Kumari
Iswariya University.
• President Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the 15th annual convocation of Veer
Surendra Sai University of Technology at Burla, Sambalpur, Odisha.
• On 22nd November 2023, She addressed the 42nd Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of
Higher Learning held at Sai Hira Convention Hall in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Which Credit Card Provider in India has recently (in Oct ‘23) collaborated with Reliance
Retail Limited(RRL) to launch a co-branded credit card to provide a world-class customer
experience?
1) Mastercard
2) SBI Card
3) American Express
4) HDFC Card
5) ICICI Card
Answer- 2) SBI Card
Explanation:
SBI Cards and Payment Services Limited (SBI Card), in collaboration with Reliance Retail Limited
(RRL), has launched a co-branded credit card called the ‘Reliance SBI Card’ which aims to provide a
world-class customer experience.
i. The card comes in two variants namely Reliance SBI Card and Reliance SBI Card PRIME.
ii. Reliance SBI Card, made using recycled plastic, is powered by RuPay contactless technology.
iii. The unique security key feature of Visa payWave will ensure that only one transaction is processed
even if the card is waved multiple times at the reader.

2. Name the company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) entered into a Co-Lending Model(CLM)
partnership with the State Bank of India (SBI) to provide affordable and personalised financing
solutions.
1) Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited
2) Muthoot Fincorp Limited
3) Tata Capital Financial Services Limited
4) Aditya Birla Finance Limited
5) Bajaj Finance Limited
Answer- 1) Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited
Explanation:
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited, a leading non-banking financial company
(NBFC) in India, has entered into a Co-Lending Model(CLM) partnership with the State Bank of India
(SBI) to provide affordable and personalised financing solutions to empower Micro, Small, Medium
Enterprises (MSME) sectors across India.
i. Mahindra Finance, by leveraging its extensive rural distribution network, will be responsible for
customer origination and servicing; while SBI will provide the funding of the loan.
ii. They offer a personalized interest rate for each customer based on their credit profile.
3. Which bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) became the first Foreign Bank in India to offer
electronic-Bank Guarantees (e-BGs)?
1) Standard Chartered Bank India
2) DBS Bank India
3) HSBC India
4) CSB Bank India
5) Citibank India
Answer- 3) HSBC India
Explanation:
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, India (HSBC India), in association with the
National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL), has introduced the electronic-Bank Guarantees (e-
BGs) services to digitize trade finance.
• With this, HSBC India became the first Foreign Bank in India to offer e-BGs.
i. e-BG is a digital equivalent of a traditional paper-based Bank Guarantee.
ii. It is a guarantee issued by a bank to a beneficiary on behalf of an applicant, promising to pay the
beneficiary a specific amount of money if the applicant fails to fulfil a certain obligation.
iii. The process is made simple by introducing electronic stamping (E-stamping) and electronic
signing (E-signing).
4. In November 2023, ______________ became the 1st life insurance company in India to receive
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City)’s International Financial Services Centre
(IFSC) Registration.
1) HDFC Standard Life Insurance
2) Future Generali India Life Insurance
3) SBI Life Insurance
4) IndiaFirst Life Insurance
5) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance

Answer- 4) IndiaFirst Life Insurance

Explanation:
IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life) has become the 1st life insurance
company in India to receive Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City)’s International
Financial Services Centre (IFSC) Registration.
• The IFSC Unit of IndiaFirst will soon commence operations.
i. India First Life Insurance is a three-way venture firm with BoB(holding 65% stake), UBI (holding
9% stake), and Carmel Point Investments India Private Limited(holding 26% stake).
ii. Carmel Point Investments India Private Limited, a private limited company incorporated under the
laws of India and affiliate of the Warburg Pincus Group.
5. In November 2023, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) unveiled a new format
for the Scheme Information Documents (SIDs) of Asset Management Company (AMC).
The new norms are recommended by the Mutual Fund Advisory Committee(MFAC), and will
come into force from __________ .
1) 1st January 2024
2) 1st May 2024
3) 1st April 2024
4) 1st March 2024
5) 1st December 2023
Answer- 3) 1st April 2024
Explanation:
Intending to streamline the dissemination of relevant information to investors, the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has unveiled a new format for the Scheme Information Documents
(SIDs) of Asset Management Company(AMC).
• The new norms are suggested by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and
recommended by the Mutual Fund Advisory Committee(MFAC).
• The new format will come into force from April 1, 2024.
i. The Scheme Information Document or SID contains detailed information about the scheme’s
investment objective, asset allocation pattern, investment approach, risks involved, fund managers,
fees, expenses etc.
6. Which bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) enabled its customers to pay with any merchant
QR(Quick Response) code using the Digital Rupee (e₹) app?
1) IndusInd Bank
2) Axis Bank
3) YES Bank
4) HDFC Bank
5) ICICI Bank
Answer- 5) ICICI Bank
Explanation:
ICICI Bank Limited has enabled its customers to pay with any merchant QR(Quick Response) code
using the “Digital Rupee by ICICI Bank”, the digital rupee (e₹) app of ICICI Bank.
• ICICI bank achieved this by making its digital rupee app UPI (Unified Payments Interface)
interoperable.

i. The move eliminates the need for mandatory on-boarding procedure for the merchants.
• The merchants can now accept digital rupee payments on their existing UPI QR code.
ii. This also provides flexibility & convenience to customers and exponentially expands the avenues
for payments.
iii. The new feature also expands the usage of digital rupee.
7. Name the Small Finance Bank (SFB) that has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with ixigo to
launch a premium co-branded Travel Credit Card.
1) Capital SFB
2) Ujjivan SFB
3) Equitas SFB
4) AU SFB
5) ESAF SFB
Answer- 4) AU SFB
Explanation:
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) along with a travel platform ixigo (Le Travenues Technology
Limited) announced the launch of their premium ixigo-AU co-branded credit card which aims to
enhance the travel experiences of modern travelers in semi-urban regions.
• The card is a first-of-its-kind value proposition across all travel verticals such as flights, trains,
buses & hotels.
i. The partnership combines AU SFB’s financial expertise and ixigo’s reach in tier 2 and tier 3 markets.
ii. These two Bharat-focused brands address the evolving needs of modern travellers, who seek
flexibility, convenience, and value.
8. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) simplified the process for Indian nationals to open
and operate bank accounts in the financial institutions?
1) Singapore
2) Russia
3) United Kingdom
4) Canada
5) Australia
Answer- 2) Russia
Explanation:
The Russian government has simplified the process for Indian nationals to open and operate bank
accounts in the financial institutions of Russia.
i. Upon arrival in Russia, Indian nationals will be able to obtain a bank card from a partner Russian
bank and initiate financial transactions.
ii. This will benefit Indian tourists and 15,000 Indian students studying in Russia.
iii. To get guidance, Indians can approach an Indian bank that has a partnership agreement with the
Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia).
9. In October 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the minimum amount for
offering Non-Callable Term Deposits (TDs) from Rs 15 lakh to Rs __________.
1) 40 lakh
2) 80 lakh

3) 30 lakh
4) 2 crore
5) 1 crore
Answer- 5) 1 crore
Explanation:
On October 26, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the minimum amount for offering
Non-Callable Term Deposits (TDs) from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 1 crore with immediate effect, allowing all
customers to prematurely withdraw money from Fixed Deposit (FD) of up to Rs 1 crore. This mandate
will cover all commercial banks and co-operative banks.
• This means all domestic TDs accepted from individuals for amounts of Rs 1 crore and below
will have a premature-withdrawal-facility.
• These instructions will be applicable for Non-Resident (External) Rupee (NRE) Deposit /
Ordinary Non-Resident (NRO) Deposits.
Note- Non-callable FDs are TDs that do not permit premature withdrawals until the tenure is
completed. Banks offer higher rates on non-callable FDs to discourage premature withdrawals.
10. In November 2023, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
formed a task force under the Chairmanship of __________ to review the existing bancassurance
framework.
1) Thomas Devasia
2) B.C. Patnaik
3) S. N. Rajeswari
4) Meena Kumari
5) Parmod Kumar Arora
Answer- 4) Meena Kumari
Explanation:
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has formed a task force under
the Chairmanship of Meena Kumari, Executive Director(Life) of IRDAI, to review the existing
bancassurance framework.
• The task force was formed in response to concerns about mis-selling/forced selling of
insurance policies through the bancassurance channel.
• The taskforce will review the existing regulatory framework for bancassurance and suggest
ways and means to increase the efficiency of it.
• The taskforce will also examine best international practices and suggest suitable changes.
• The taskforce is asked to submit these recommendations within 31st December 2023.
11. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the steps taken by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in November 2023?
A) RBI has decided to include all entities facilitating cross-border payment transactions for
import and export of goods and services under the direct regulation of the RBI.
B) Non-banks providing payment aggregation and payment processing services must have a
minimum net worth of Rs 15 crore during application to RBI.
C) RBI imposed Rs 72 lakh penalty on L&T Finance Limited for non-compliance with certain
provisions of RBI (Interest Rate on Deposits) Directions, 2016, RBI (Interest Rate on Advances)
Directions, 2016, and Master Circular on Customer Service in Banks.

1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
On 31st October 2023, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Regulation of Payment Aggregator
– Cross Border (PA-CB). RBI has decided to include all entities facilitating cross-border payment
transactions for import and export of goods and services under the direct regulation of the RBI.
• The entities including Authorised Dealer (AD) banks, PAs and PAs-CB shall comply with these
instructions.
• All non-banks which provide PA-CB services must apply for authorization from the RBI by
April 30, 2024.
• Non-banks providing payment aggregation and payment processing services must have a
minimum net worth of Rs 15 crore during application to RBI. They need to increase net worth
to Rs 25 crore by March 31, 2026.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed monetary penalties on the following entities:
• RBI imposed Rs 72 lakh penalty on Punjab National Bank (PNB) for non-compliance
with certain provisions of RBI (Interest Rate on Deposits) Directions, 2016, RBI
(Interest Rate on Advances) Directions, 2016, and Master Circular on Customer Service
in Banks
• RBI imposed Rs 30 lakh penalty on Federal Bank Ltd for non-compliance with certain
directions contained in RBI (Know Your Customer (KYC)) Directions, 2016.
• RBI imposed Rs 13.38 lakh penalty on Kosamattam Finance Limited, based in Kottayam,
Kerala, for non-compliance with certain provisions of the “Non-Banking Financial
Company (NBFC) – Systemically Important Non-Deposit taking Company and Deposit
taking Company (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2016.
• RBI imposed Rs 10 lakh penalty on Mercedes-Benz Financial Services India Private
Limited (formerly known as Daimler Financial Services India Private Limited) for non-
compliance with certain provisions of the RBI (Know Your Customer (KYC)) Direction,
2016.
• RBI imposed Rs 2.50 crore penalty on L&T Finance Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra,
for non-compliance with certain provisions of the NBFC – Systemically Important Non-
Deposit taking Company and Deposit taking Company (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2016.
12. Which life Insurance company has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched Super Cash Plan, a new
non-linked, participating, individual life insurance savings plan?
2) PNB MetLife India Insurance
3) Ageas Federal Life Insurance
4) Tata AIA Life Insurance
5) Max Life Insurance
Answer- 3) Ageas Federal Life Insurance

Explanation:
Ageas Federal Life Insurance (AFLI) has launched a new non-linked, participating, individual life
insurance savings plan called Ageas Federal Life Insurance Super Cash Plan.
• The scheme is a combination of life insurance protection, guaranteed returns, and regular
income.
• The scheme offers immediate cash flow starting from the end of 1st policy year/ month.
• There is also provision for Guaranteed boosters starting from end of every fifth policy year till
the end of policy term.
• Additionally, the scheme also offers a lump sum maturity benefit at the end of the policy term.
13. The ICICI Prudential Multi-Asset Fund scheme completed __________ years on 31st October
2023.
1) 16
2) 21
3) 15
4) 31
5) 12
Answer- 2) 21
Explanation:
On 31st October 2023, The ICICI Prudential Multi-Asset Fund scheme completed 21 years. The
scheme was incepted on 31st October 2002.
• The fund has a good track record, which generates a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of
21%.
• As of 30 September 2023, the scheme manages an Assets Under Management (AUM) of Rs
24,060.99 crore or about 57% of the total AUM in the multi-asset allocation category.
14. Which life insurance company has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched ‘Guaranteed Assured
Income’ (GAIN), a new guaranteed income plan for the customers of Karnataka Vikas
Grameena Bank (KVGB)?
1) SBI Life Insurance
2) HDFC Life Insurance
3) Canara HSBC Life Insurance
4) TATA AIA Life Insurance
Answer- 3) Canara HSBC Life Insurance
Explanation:
Canara HSBC Life Insurance, an insurance company sponsored by Canara Bank and HSBC, has
launched a new guaranteed income plan named the ‘Guaranteed Assured Income’ (GAIN) for the
customers of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) in Mangaluru (Karnataka).
i. It is a Non-Linked Non-Participating Individual Life Insurance Savings cum Protection Plan that
ensures guaranteed benefits as well as regular income to take care of both long-term and short-term
financial goals.
ii. It offers a guaranteed regular income stream with the flexibility to get the premiums back at the
end of the policy term. This policy is available in all the 629 Branches of KVGB.

15. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) collaborated with the National Payments
Corporation of India (NPCI) to launch the Platinum RuPay Credit Card.
1) YES Bank
2) HDFC Bank
3) ICICI Bank
4) IndusInd Bank
5) Axis Bank
Answer- 4) IndusInd Bank
Explanation:
IndusInd Bank Ltd launched the ‘IndusInd Bank Platinum RuPay Credit Card’ in collaboration with
the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), enabling customers to make payments through
the RuPay network using Point of Sale (POS) devices and e-commerce websites.
i. IndusInd Bank RuPay credit card customers can now conveniently initiate the Unified Payments
Interface (UPI) payments by simply linking their credit cards with the UPI-enabled Apps.
ii. With the integration of the card on UPI, individuals can make transactions seamlessly on both
online and offline platforms and earn accelerated rewards on their UPI transactions.
16. According to the data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) released in
November 2023, which state emerged as the leader in mutual fund investments in India during
July-September Quarter-Fiscal Year 2024 (Q2FY24)?
1) West Bengal
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Karnataka
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
According to data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), Maharashtra emerged as
the leader in mutual fund investments in India during July-September Quarter-Fiscal Year
2024(Q2FY24) with a substantial equity asset of Rs 7.47 lakh crore out of the industry’s total equity
asset of Rs 25.85 lakh crore.
• It is followed by Gujarat and Karnataka holding equity assets of Rs 2.21 lakh crore and Rs 1.99
lakh crore respectively.
• They have surpassed Delhi (ranked 4th), whose equity asset dropped to Rs 1.94 lakh crore.
i. Gujarat and Karnataka accounted for 8.5% and 7.7% of the overall industry equity asset, while Delhi
lagged behind at 7.5%.
ii. In terms of Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) inflows, Gujarat contributed significantly, accounting
for 7% with inflows of around Rs 1200 crore.
17. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with Institute of Rural
Management Anand (IRMA) in Anand, Gujarat to promote financial inclusion (FI) and financial
literacy across India.
1) IndusInd Bank
2) YES Bank
3) HDFC Bank

4) Axis Bank
5) ICICI Bank
Answer- 4) Axis Bank
Explanation:
Axis Bank Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Rural
Management Anand (IRMA), (Anand) Gujarat, to establish the Axis Bank Chair for Financial
Inclusion at IRMA campus.
• The chair was established to promote financial inclusion (FI) and financial literacy across
India.
i. Axis Bank Chair for Financial Inclusion is constituted for a period of 5 years.
ii. This will focus on research, deepening industry-academia collaboration, driving thought leadership,
and policy advocacy.
iii. Under this MoU, a joint Advisory Committee will be established to oversee the selection for the
Chair and periodically review the progress.
18. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 'India Finance Report
2023 (IFR 2023) released in November 2023?
A) Shaktikanta Das, Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), released IFR 2023, the 1st
flagship publication of the Centre for Advanced Financial Research and Learning (CAFRAL).
B) The theme of the report is 'Connecting the Last Mile: Non-Banking Financial Companies in
India'.
C) As per the report, a 10% increase in per capita UPI transactions usually leads to a 4.6% rise
in fintech lending and 1.5% in lending by commercial banks.
1) All 1, 2 & 3
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Answer- 1) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
On November 7, 2023, Shaktikanta Das, Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), released the 1st
flagship publication of the Centre for Advanced Financial Research and Learning (CAFRAL) titled
'India Finance Report 2023 (IFR 2023)'. The report stated that India's fintech sector could replace
traditional banking in the near future.
• The theme of the report is 'Connecting the Last Mile: Non-Banking Financial Companies in
India'.
• CAFRAL, promoted by RBI, is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011 to promote
research and learning in banking and finance.
• The report offers new insights on India's non-banking financial sector, helping regulators,
policymakers, and other stakeholders understand its unique strengths and opportunities. For
this report, monthly Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transaction data from 30 States and
union territories over 2018-2022 and sector-wise lending data from CIBIL were analysed.
i. Key points: There is a 10% increase in per capita UPI transactions usually leads to a 4.6% rise in
fintech lending and 1.5% in lending by commercial banks
ii. As of March 2023, UPI network has over 30 crore unique users and 400 participating banks.

iii. Transaction value grew at 163% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) from FY18 to FY23.
iv. .Transaction volume increased at 56% CAGR during the same period.
Note- PayGlocal, a cross-border payments platform, receives in-principle approval from RBI for
Payment Aggregator (PA) license. This will allow PayGlocal to onboard merchants for online payment
processing.
19. In November 2023, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has
announced an offer of USD __________ to Adani Ports-led Colombo West International Terminal
Private Limited (CWIT) to support the development of the deepwater shipping Container
Terminal in the Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
1) 920 million
2) 896 million
3) 553 million
4) 712 million
5) 628 million
Explanation:
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has announced an offer of USD 553
million to Adani Ports-led Colombo West International Terminal Private Limited (CWIT) to support
the development of the deepwater shipping Container Terminal in the Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
i. CWIT is a joint venture (JV) developed by a consortium led by Adani Ports & Special Economic Zones
Limited (APSEZ) (51% stake), Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells Holdings (34% stake), and the Sri
Lankan government-run Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) (15%).
• In 2021, Adani Ports signed a USD 700-million deal with SLPA and John Keells Holdings to
jointly develop the terminal project in a Build-Operate-Transfer(BOT) arrangement spanning
35 years.
ii. CWIT’s new terminal will help to increase the operational capacity of the port of Colombo which
has been operating at more than 90 percent utilization since 2021.
20. Name the bank/organisation, along with Global Environment Facility (GEF) has recently (in
Nov ‘23) to introduce the Natural Capital Fund (NCF), a concessional fund.
1) World Bank
5) Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Answer- 4) Asian Development Bank
Explanation:
On November 10, 2023, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Global Environment Facility
(GEF) jointly introduced the Natural Capital Fund (NCF), a concessional fund aimed at backing
projects in ADB’s developing member countries (DMCs).
i. The GEF has committed a USD15 million investment to support the NCF’s initiatives focused on
improving food security and safeguarding natural capital.
ii. The announcement for the same was made during the Asia-Pacific Natural Capital Forum held on 7–
9 November 2023, co-hosted by ADB and Stanford University’s Natural Capital Project.

21. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved ICICI Bank‘s request to make
______________, a wholly-owned subsidiary.
1) ICICI Securities
2) ICICI Lombard
3) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
4) ICICI Home Finance
5) ICICI Trusteeship Services
Answer- 1) ICICI Securities
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved ICICI Bank‘s request to make ICICI Securities a wholly-
owned subsidiary. Following this, ICICI Securities will be delisted and become a wholly-owned
subsidiary of its parent company, ICICI Bank.
• ICICI Securities has four lines of business: Broking, Distribution of financial products, Wealth
management, and Investment banking
• The acquisition is likely to be completed in the next 12-15 months, subject to regulatory
approvals from ICICI Bank and the company’s shareholders’ and creditors, RBI, National
Company Law Tribunal, stock exchanges and other regulatory and statutory authorities.
22. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a USD 400 million policy-based loan
agreement with the Indian government to create high-quality urban infrastructure?
3) World Bank
Explanation:
On November 13, 2023, the Indian government signed a USD 400 million policy-based loan
agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support its sub-programme 2 of the
Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme.
• This program is India’s urban reform agenda to create high-quality urban infrastructure,
improve service delivery, and promote efficient governance systems.
• The Loan has a principal repayment period of 12 years.
The sub-programme 2 of the Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme was
approved in 2021 with a financing of USD 350 million.
• It established national-level policies and guidelines to improve urban services.
• While Sub-programme 2 supports investment planning and reform actions at the state and
urban local body (ULB) levels.
23. In November 2023, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) accepted the first
insurance surety bond as bid security for the Toll Operate Transfer (TOT) Bundle 14 bid.
The bond was issued at a rate of _________.
1) 0.38%
2) 0.50%
3) 0.64%

4) 0.25%
5) 0.49%
Answer- 4) 0.25%
Explanation:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) accepted the first insurance surety bond as bid
security for the Toll Operate Transfer (TOT) Bundle 14 bid. The bond was issued at a rate of 0.25%
and did not require any margin money.
• This will be the first time this instrument is being utilized as a Bank Guarantee (BG) in the road
infrastructure sector for monetization of bids.
• The NHAI collaborated with the Highway Operators Association of India (HOAI), SBI General
Insurance, and AON India Insurance for this initiative.
24. Which of the following companies has not received the Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI) approval to raise funds through initial public offerings (IPOs) in November 2023?
1) Ganviz Enterprises
2) Fedbank Financial Services Limited
3) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
4) EPACK Durable
5) Suraj Estate Developers
Answer- 1) Ganviz Enterprises
Explanation:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has given approval to four companies viz.
Fedbank Financial Services Limited (Fedfina), Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
(IREDA), EPACK Durable, and Suraj Estate Developers to raise funds through initial public offerings
(IPOs).
• These companies filed preliminary IPO papers with SEBI between July and September 2023.
• The equity shares of these companies will be listed on the BSE (Formerly Bombay Stock
Exchange) and NSE (National Stock Exchange).
Note- Fedfina is a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) arm of Federal Bank.
25. Which bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched Unified Payment Interface (UPI) Lite to
allow the users to make small-value digital payments offline without entering a UPI PIN?
1) South Indian Bank
2) IDFC FIRST Bank
3) IndusInd Bank
4) Tamilnad Mercantile Bank
5) Federal Bank
Answer- 5) Federal Bank
Explanation:
Federal Bank Limited has launched Unified Payment Interface (UPI) Lite, a simplified version of the
UPI system which allows users to make small-value digital payments offline without entering a UPI
PIN.
UPI Lite:
• The UPI Lite functionality was introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in September
2022.

• It is an ‘on-device wallet’ feature integrated into existing UPI mobile applications.

• UPI Lite minimizes the burden on the core banking system (CBS) by enabling direct
transactions between the user’s mobile device and National Payment Corporation of India
(NPCI).
26. Name the company that has recently (in November ‘23) become the second Indian startup
to achieve unicorn status in 2023.
1) Chargify
2) Zeta
3) Chargebee
4) InCred Holdings Limited
5) Innovaccer
Answer- 4) InCred Holdings Limited
Explanation:
Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based InCred Holdings Limited, the parent company of fintech startup
InCred Financial Services Ltd, has become the 2nd Indian startup to become an unicorn, valued at
over USD 1 billion, in 2023.
• InCred became an unicorn after raising funding worth Rs 500 crore in its latest round (Series
D) of equity funding.
• The equity round has gathered interest from various investors, including a global private
equity fund, corporate treasuries, family offices, and Ultra-High-Net-worth-Individuals
(UHNIs).
i. In August 2023, Zepto, a quick commerce platform, became India's first unicorn of 2023. It raised
USD 200 million in a Series E round of funding at a valuation of USD 1.4 billion.
27. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) barred ___________ (company) from
sanctioning and disbursing loans under its eCOM and Insta EMI Card products.
1) Aditya Birla Finance Limited
2) Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited
4) Muthoot Finance Limited
5) Tata Capital Financial Services Limited
Answer- 3) Bajaj Finance Limited
Explanation:
On November 15, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) exercise of its powers under section
45L(1)(b) of the RBI Act, 1934 barred Bajaj Finance Limited from sanctioning and disbursing loans
under its two lending products viz. eCOM and Bajaj Insta EMI Card, with immediate effect.
i. The reason behind this action is the non-adherence of Digital lending guidelines of RBI by the
company, specifically by not providing Key Fact Statements to borrowers for two lending products.
• Additionally, Bajaj Finance will rectify the key fact statement for eCOM and Insta EMI Card.
ii. RBI restrictions on lending via the eCOM and Bajaj Insta EMI Card will not have a “material financial
impact” on the organisation.
Note- RBI returned Mastercard-backed fintech Instamojo‘s application for a payment aggregator (PA)
license amid not meeting the eligibility criteria. Instamojo is based in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

• The aggregator/ payouts function will now be undertaken in partnership with other licensed
PAs while its payment gateway continues to be fully functional.
28. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched two Digital Gold Loan schemes for
the retail segment and agriculture segment.
1) Bank of Maharashtra
2) Union Bank of India
3) Canara Bank
4) Indian Bank
5) Punjab National Bank
Answer- 5) Punjab National Bank
Explanation:
Punjab National Bank (PNB) launched two PNB Digital Gold Loan schemes namely PNB Gold Loan
for the retail segment and PNB Swarnim for the agriculture segment.
i. The schemes aim to provide customers with hassle-free access to credit to meet their personal and
agricultural needs by using gold jewellery as collateral for the loan.
ii. The Streamlined digital process eliminating paperwork hassles is one of the key features of this
Digital scheme.
• PNB Digital Gold Loan offers a modern banking experience with competitive interest rates.
• The schemes offer loans ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 25 lakhs to support personal needs, and
agriculture & allied activities.
• Borrowers seeking short-term production or investment credit for agricultural activities and
allied activities are eligible for loans of minimum Rs 10,000 to maximum Rs 2 lakh.
29. Which Financial Institution/Regulatory Body of India has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an
MoU with Technology Development Board (TDB) to ease access of credit to MSME?
4) Export - Import Bank of India
Answer- 2) Small Industries Development Bank of India
Explanation:
The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Technology Development Board (TDB) to ease access of credit to Micro, Small & Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) that are attempting to develop and commercialise indigenous technology or
adapt imported technology for wider domestic applications.
• The MoU was executed by Rahul Priyadarshi, Chief General Manager, SIDBI and Rajesh Jain,
Director, TDB.
• The MoU is signed for the joint initiative by TDB and SIDBI, to extend financial assistance to
eligible MSMEs as per the terms & conditions of TDB & SIDBI.
• Under this MoU, SIDBI and TDB will support MSMEs with respective core-
competencies/expertise.

30. Which of the following personalities has/have been appointed as the directors of Jio
Financial Services Limited after the approval granted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in
November 2023?
1) Isha Ambani
2) Anshuman Thakur
3) Hitesh Kumar Sethia
4) Both 1 & 2
5) All 1, 2 & 3
Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
On 15th November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval for the appointment
of Isha Ambani, Anshuman Thakur, and Hitesh Kumar Sethia as Directors of Jio Financial
Services Limited, a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) backed by Reliance Industries
Limited(RIL).
• The approval is valid for only 6 months with effect from the 15th November 2023.
Note- If the company fails to implement the proposed changes within this timeframe, it will need to
reapply with reasons for the delay.
31. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent step taken by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in November 2023?
A) RBI increased the risk weights on credit card exposures by 30% points to 200% and 250%
for banks and NBFCs, respectively.
B) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted authorization to Authorized Dealer Category – I
(AD Category – I) banks to open additional current accounts for export proceeds,
supplementing the existing special rupee vostro accounts.
C) RBI has levied monetary penalties on Axis Bank Ltd (Rs 90.92 lakh), Manappuram Finance
Ltd (Rs 42.78 lakh) and Anand Rathi Global Finance Ltd (Rs 20 lakh) for non-compliance with
various regulatory directives.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced stricter rules for consumer lending, directing both
banks and NBFCs to establish higher capital buffers and implement board-approved policies to
monitor exposure limits in the consumer lending segment.
• This move follows concerns expressed by the RBI governor regarding the rapid growth of
consumer loans, prompting a cautionary approach among lenders.
• RBI increased the risk weights on credit card exposures by 25% points to 150% and 125%
for banks and NBFCs, respectively.
• The new regulations will not be applicable to housing loans, education loans, vehicle loans and
loans secured by gold and gold jewellery.

i. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted authorization to Authorized Dealer Category – I (AD
Category – I) banks to open additional current accounts for export proceeds, supplementing the
existing special rupee vostro accounts.
ii. RBI has levied monetary penalties on Axis Bank Ltd, Manappuram Finance Ltd, and Anand Rathi
Global Finance Ltd for non-compliance with various regulatory directives.
• Penalty on Axis Bank: RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 90.92 lakh for multiple
infractions discovered during the ‘Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE 2022).’
• Penalty on Manappuram Finance: RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 42.78 lakh for non-
compliance with certain provisions of the “Non-Banking Financial Company – Systemically
Important Non-Deposit taking Company and Deposit taking Company (Reserve Bank)
Directions, 2016”.
• Penalty on Anand Rathi Global Finance: RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 20 lakh for non-
compliance with certain provisions of the RBI (KYC) Directions, 2016.
32. On 11th November 2023 (Bima Lokpal Day 2023 ), Insurance Ombudsman announced that
it has disposed of over __________ of the complaints received from the insured during Financial
year 2022-23.
1) 82.87%
2) 87.34%
3) 90.21%
4) 88.45%
5) 92.28%
Answer- 5) 92.28%
Explanation:
On the occasion of Bima Lokpal Day 2023 (11th November 2023), Insurance Ombudsman
announced that it has disposed of over 92.28% of the complaints received from the insured during
Financial year 2022-23 (FY23).
i. The Insurance Ombudsman has settled 51,625 out of 55,946 received complaints across all 17
Insurance Ombudsman Offices.
ii. Bima Lokpal Day is observed annually on November 11, to commemorate the foundation day of the
Insurance Ombudsman, an alternative dispute resolution forum set up to resolve disputes relating to
insurance contracts.
• The insurance ombudsman was established through a government of India notification in
November 1998.
33. Which bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited
(HDFC Life) to offer life insurance products to its customers?
2) RBL Bank
3) Federal Bank
4) Karnataka Bank
5) IDFC FIRST Bank
Answer- 4) Karnataka Bank

Explanation:
Karnataka Bank has formed a strategic corporate partnership with HDFC Life Insurance Company
Limited (HDFC Life) to offer life insurance products to its customers.
• This collaboration is set to deliver a host of benefits to customers seeking financial security and
life protection.
• It also offers customers a range of innovative and customer-centric financial solutions.
Note- HDFC Life was established in 2000 as a joint venture between HDFC Bank and Abrdn (Mauritius
Holdings) 2006 Limited.
34. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent
launch/announcement made by Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in November
2023?
A) Madhabi Puri Buch, the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI),
has officially launched the Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) platform at the Bombay
Stock Exchange (BSE).
B) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced the elimination of the
requirement to freeze folios lacking PAN, KYC details, and nominations for all holders of
physical securities.
C) Unifi Capital announced that it has received in-principle approval from the capital markets
regulator, SEBI, to establish a mutual fund house.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Madhabi Puri Buch, the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has
officially launched the Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) platform at the Bombay Stock
Exchange (BSE).
• The IRRA platform, initiated by Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) under SEBI’s
guidance, aims to reduce risks faced by investors in the event of technical glitches at Trading
Member (TM) ends, both at the Primary and Disaster Recovery sites.
• The soft launch of the IRRA platform took place on October 3, 2023, with official launch
occurring on November 20, 2023 for the benefit of investors.
• This platform is specifically designed for trading members supporting Internet-based trading
(IBT) and Security Trading through Wireless Technology (STWT) for their investors.
i. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the capital markets regulator, announced the
elimination of the requirement to freeze folios lacking PAN, KYC details, and nominations for all
holders of physical securities.
ii. Portfolio management firm Unifi Capital announced that it has received in-principle approval from
the capital markets regulator, SEBI, to establish a mutual fund house.
• The company had submitted an application to SEBI in December 2020 seeking a mutual fund
licence.

• Unifi Capital, based in Chennai, stated that it has obtained SEBI’s in-principle approval to
initiate its mutual fund business.
35. Which organisation/bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a USD 6.5 million senior secured
loan agreement with Greenway Grameen Infra Private Limited for the Greenway Carbon
Credits Gender Finance Project?
5) World Bank
Explanation:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Greenway Grameen Infra Private Limited have signed a
USD 6.5 million senior secured loan agreement for the Greenway Carbon Credits Gender Finance
Project.
• The financing also includes a USD 3.25 million first-loss liquidity reserve from the Climate
Innovation and Development Fund (CIDF).
i. The project aims to facilitate the production and distribution of 1 million subsidized Greenway
Jumbo Stoves to rural households in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha.
ii. The improved cookstoves reduce household fuel consumption by 65%, smoke emissions by 70%,
and carbon dioxide(CO2) emissions by 22.9 million tons.
iii. Greenway will sell the carbon credits generated from the use of improved cookstoves to
international buyers.
36. In November 2023, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a loan package of USD
_____________ for Maharashtra Tertiary Care and Medical Education Sector Development Program.
1) 400 million
2) 500 million
3) 250 million
4) 300 million
5) 450 million
Explanation:
On November 23, 2023, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a loan package of USD 500
million for Maharashtra Tertiary Care and Medical Education Sector Development Program
which envisages to improve access to quality and affordable tertiary health care and medical
education in Maharashtra.
i. Utilization of funds:
• The funding by ADB will be utilised towards the following priorities of the Program:
• Addressing remaining poverty and reducing inequalities
• Accelerating progress in gender equality
• Tackling climate change, building climate and disaster resilience, and enhancing
environmental sustainability
• Strengthening governance and institutional capacity

ii. The program aims to develop tertiary care and medical education infrastructure using the sector
development program (SDP) modality. It will also focus on quality improvement of this sector.
37. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a USD 125 million financing pact with
Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support financing in rural and peri-urban areas of India?
1) L&T Finance Limited
2) Mahindra and Mahindra Financial Services Limited
3) Shriram Finance Limited
5) Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Limited
Answer- 1) L&T Finance Limited
Explanation:
Mumbai, Maharashtra based L&T Finance Limited(LFT), a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)
and a subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T), signed a USD 125 million financing pact with
Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support financing in rural and peri-urban areas of India, especially
for women borrowers.
i. The funding comprises a loan of up to USD 125 million from ADB and an agreement to syndicate an
additional USD 125 million in co-financing from other development partners.
ii. 40% is designated for women borrowers and the remainder supporting farmers, MSMEs (Micro,
Small, and Medium Enterprises), and two-wheeled vehicle purchases.
38. Which organisation/bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the Global Fund to
Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB), & Malaria (the Global Fund) to tackle the impact of climate
Change on Health?
4) World Bank
Answer- 4) World Bank
Explanation:
On November 22, 2023, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the World
Bank (WB) and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome),
Tuberculosis(TB), and Malaria (the Global Fund) to improve their collaboration on climate change’s
impact on health.
Aim: To support more efficient, effective, and sustainable financing to improve health outcomes in the
face of climate change.
39. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with UK Export
Finance (UKEF) to establish a financing programme of up to 100 million Pounds.
1) Standard Chartered Bank India
2) DBS Bank India
3) HSBC India
4) CSB Bank India
5) Citibank India


Explanation:
The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, India (HSBC India) have signed a Letter
of Intent (LoI) with UK Export Finance (UKEF), the United Kingdom (UK)’s export credit agency, to
establish a financing programme of up to 100 million Pounds.
i. This programme will support Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and corporates
for financing their imports from the UK.
ii. HSBC India and UKEF will collaborate to originate, structure, and extend financing and credit
facilities for Indian MSMEs.
40. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with Indraprastha Gas Limited
(IGL) to enable Digital Rupee Transactions in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR).
1) HDFC Bank
2) IDFC FIRST Bank
3) IndusInd Bank
4) ICICI Bank
5) YES Bank
Answer- 3) IndusInd Bank
Explanation:
IndusInd Bank Limited has partnered with Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) to promote Digital Rupee
(e₹), the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• The collaboration aims to promote cashless transactions at IGL Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Stations in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR).
i. The customer can also make payment across all IGL stations by scanning any UPI Quick Response
(QR) Code using their Digital Rupee mobile application.
ii. This initiative offers a secure, inclusive, sustainable and efficient mode of digital transaction
iii. The process ultimately simplifies the banking experience of the customers.
41. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) superseded the board of directors of
_________ (Cooperative Bank) for 1 year amid poor governance standards of the latter.
1) Abhyudaya Cooperative Bank Ltd
2) Lalbaug Cooperative Bank Ltd
3) Cooperative Bank of Mehsana Ltd
4) Harij Nagrik Sahakari Bank Ltd
5) National Cooperative Bank Ltd
Answer- 1) Abhyudaya Cooperative Bank Ltd
Explanation:
On November 24, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in exercise of the powers conferred under
Section 36 AAA read with section 56 of the Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949 (As Applicable to Co-
operative Societies), has superseded the board of directors of Abhyudaya Cooperative Bank
Limited for 12 months (1 year) amid poor governance standards of the latter.
• In this regard, RBI appointed Satya Prakash Pathak, former Chief General Manager of State
Bank of India (SBI), as the administrator of the bank.
i. The RBI has also appointed a committee of advisors to assist the administrator. Its members are
• Venkatesh Hegde (former General Manager, SBI)

• Mahendra Chhajed (Chartered Accountant)

• Suhas Gokhale (former MD, COSMOS Co-operative Bank Limited).
42. Which of the following banks has/have recently (in Nov ‘23) received monetary penalty by
the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for non-compliance with some of its Directions?
1) Indian Overseas Bank
2) Bank of Baroda
3) Citibank
4) Both 1 & 2
5) All 1, 2 & 3
Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty on three banks viz. Citibank N.A.
(Rs 5 crore), Bank of Baroda/BOB(Rs 4.34 crore) and Indian Overseas Bank/IOB(Rs 1 crore) for
non-compliance with some of its Directions.
• This will not affect any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers.
i. Penalty on Citibank N.A.: Rs 5 crore: It has been imposed by RBI in exercise of powers under the
provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Section 46(4)(i) of the BR Act.
ii. Penalty on BOB: Rs 4.34 crore: It has been imposed by RBI in exercise of powers vested in RBI
conferred under the provisions of Section 47 A (1) (c) read with Sections 46 (4) (i) and 51(1) of BR
Act, 1949.
iii. Penalty on IOB: Rs 1 Crore: It has been imposed by RBI in exercise of powers vested in RBI
conferred under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 51(1) of BR Act,
1949.
43. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with U GRO Capital Limited to offer
holistic digital supply chain financing solutions to small businesses in India?
1) Visa
2) American Express
3) Mastercard
4) Capital One
5) Discover Card
Answer- 3) Mastercard
Explanation:
Mastercard Incorporated MA (Mastercard) has partnered with U GRO Capital Limited, a Non-
Banking Financial Company (NBFC), to offer holistic digital supply chain financing solutions to small
businesses in India.
i. This collaboration is in line with Mastercard’s announcement to get 1 billion people and 50 million
micro and small businesses, including 25 million female entrepreneurs into the digital economy by
2025.
ii. Under this partnership, short-term loans as a digital supply chain financing solution will be offered
to dealers/distributors, last-mile retailers, and other small merchants and women entrepreneurs.

44. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) updated its ‘alert list’ of unauthorised
forex trading platforms by adding 19 more entities, taking the total of Alert list to ____________.
1) 45
2) 59
3) 75
4) 60
5) 85
Answer- 3) 75
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has updated its ‘alert list’ of unauthorised forex trading platforms by
adding 19 more entities, taking the total to 75. List of 19 entities.
• These entities are neither authorised to deal in forex under the Foreign Exchange Management
Act (FEMA), 1999 nor to operate an electronic trading platform (ETP) for forex transactions
under the Electronic Trading Platforms (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2018.
i. The Alert List contains names of entities along with their websites link.
ii. The list also includes those entities who are indulged in promoting the unauthorised entities/ETPs
(through advertisements or claiming to be providing training/advisory services).
45. Which organisation/bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved a USD 170 Million loan for the
modernization of water supply services in Kochi, Kerala?
5) World Bank
Explanation:
On November 24, 2023, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a USD 170 Million loan for the
modernization of water supply services in Kochi, Kerala.
i. Aim:
• To improve urban living.
• To ensure clean water access.
• To bolster climate resilience.
ii. MoU includes upgrading five water treatment plants (325 Million Litres Per Day/MLD)) and
constructing a new one (190 MLD).
iii. 700 km of pipes replaced with real-time monitoring for reduced water loss during distribution.
iv. Upgrading 146,000 water meters and implementing preventive maintenance through a
performance-based contract.
46. In November 2023, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has directed all
Third Party Application Providers (TPAP) and Payment Service Provider (PSP) banks to
deactivate all inactive Unified Payments Interface (UPI) IDs by __________.
1) 31st March 2023
2) 31st January 2023
3) 30th April 2023

4) 31st December 2023

5) 31st May 2023
Answer- 4) 31st December 2023
Explanation:
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has directed all Third Party Application Providers
(TPAP) and Payment Service Provider (PSP) banks to deactivate all Unified Payments Interface
(UPI) IDs that have remained inactive for a period of one year or more.
• This measure is to be implemented by December 31, 2023.
• This includes apps like Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe.
i. Aim: To streamline UPI ID usage, ensuring only actively utilized ones remain operational for
enhanced efficiency and security in the UPI ecosystem.
47. Which company/organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) become the first Indian depository
to hold 10 crore (100 million) active dematerialisation (demat) accounts?
1) Central Depository (India) Services Ltd
2) National Stock Exchange of India Ltd
3) National Securities Depository Ltd
4) Bombay Stock Exchange Ltd
5) Hedge Equities Ltd
Answer- 1) Central Depository (India) Services Ltd
Explanation:
Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL) had become the first Indian depository to hold
10 crore(100 million) active dematerialisation (demat) accounts. CDSL attained this position by
surpassing the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL).
i. CDSL is the largest and only listed depository of India. It is a Market Infrastructure Institution (MII).
ii. CDSL maintains and services demat accounts of investors or beneficial owners (BOs). These BOs are
serviced by CDSL’s 580-plus depository participants.
48. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the announcements made by
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in its 203rd meeting in Mumbai, Maharashtra in
November 2023?
A) SEBI reduces minimum issue size from Rs 50 Lakh to Rs 25 Lakh for public issuance of Zero
Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments.
B) SEBI has further approved to reduce minimum application size from Rs 2 Lakh to Rs10000
for public issuance of ZCZP by NPO on social stock exchange.
C) SEBI plans to introduce same day (T+0) settlement by March 2024 and Instantaneous
settlement 2025.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C

Explanation:
Madhabi Puri Buch, Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chaired the 203rd
meeting of the SEBI which was held in Mumbai, Maharashtra on November 25, 2023. The SEBI Board
meeting announced key decisions related to NPO fundraising, regulations for index providers, AIFs
operations etc.
i. SEBI reduces minimum issue size from Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 Lakh for public issuance of Zero
Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments.
ii. SEBI has further approved to reduce minimum application size from Rs 2 Lakh to Rs10000 for
public issuance of ZCZP by NPO on social stock exchange. It will help to expand participation of
subscribers including Retail.
iii. SEBI Board introduces flexibility for Social Stock Exchange(SSE) in order to give boost to fund
raising by Not for Profit Organisation (NPOs) on the SSE.
iv. Madhabi Puri Buch, Chairman of SEBI announced that SEBI would soon introduce a roadmap for
the same-day (T+0) settlement of trades by March 2024 which will later be followed by
instantaneous settlement by 2025.
49. In November 2023, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
formed an 11-member task force under the chairmanship of ______________ to examine the impact
of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act of 2023 on the insurance sector.
1) Randip Singh Jagpal
2) Mayank Bathwal
3) Ramaswamy Narayanan
4) Siddhartha Mohanty
5) Neerja Kapur
Answer- 1) Randip Singh Jagpal
Explanation:
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) formed an 11-member task
force to examine the impact of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act of 2023 on the
insurance sector.
i. The Chairperson of the task force will be Randip Singh Jagpal, Executive Director (Non-Life) at
IRDAI and Member of Stakeholders’ Committee.
• The task force will submit its report within 1 month of the order issuance.
ii. The Ministry of Law and Justice, Legislative Department notified the Digital Personal Data
Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 which establishes a comprehensive framework for processing digital
personal data, balancing individual rights to data protection with the lawful processing needs.
• It includes a penalty clause for non-compliance with the provisions by data fiduciaries under
which penalties can be up to Rs 250 crore.
50. Name the Insurance Company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched a new health
insurance plan, ‘Health Supercharge' to provide comprehensive coverage for individuals and
families residing in Tier I to Tier IV locations.
1) Aditya Birla Health Insurance
2) Tata AIG General Insurance
3) Bajaj Allianz General Insurance
4) Star Health and Allied Insurance

5) Edelweiss General Insurance

Answer- 2) Tata AIG General Insurance
Explanation:
Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited has launched its new health insurance plan, Health
Supercharge to provide comprehensive coverage for individuals and families residing in Tier I to
Tier IV locations. It offers 2 plan options namely Value Plan and Geo Plan,based on the geographical
location.
i. Policyholders receive a 5-times supercharge bonus on their sum insured, providing them with
significantly more coverage for their medical expenses.
• There is no maximum age limit to cease the policy. Therefore, the policy extends lifelong
provided proper payment of the premium.
ii. A policyholder can also add optional benefits such as unlimited restoration and a reduction in the
Pre-Existing Disease (PED) waiting period for specific ailments.
iii. The premium amount paid under this policy qualifies for deduction under Section 80D of the
Income Tax Act, 1961.
ECONOMY AND BUSINESS

1. According to the ‘World Economic Outlook: Navigating Global Divergences’ report released
by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in October 2023, the global economic growth is
projected to slow down from 3.5% in 2022 to ________ in 2024.
1) 2.9%
2) 2.5%
3) 3.3%
4) 3.2%
5) 3%
Answer- 1) 2.9%
Explanation:
The ‘World Economic Outlook: Navigating Global Divergences’ report released by the
International Monetary Fund (IMF) in October 2023, projected the global economic growth to slow
down from 3.5% in 2022 to 3% in 2023 and 2.9% in 2024.
i. This is one of the lowest growth rates in decades and well below the historical average of 3.8%
recorded between 2000 & 2019.
• Advanced economies are expected to experience a decline, a drop from 2.6% economic growth
in 2022 to 1.5% in 2023 and 1.4% in 2024.
• This is attributed to policy tightening aimed at curbing inflation.
• The emerging markets and developing economies are expected to witness a decrease in growth
from 4.1% economic growth in 2022 to 4% in both 2023 and 2024.
2. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a 15-year agreement with GAIL (India)
worth Rs 63,000 crore to supply propane for India’s 1st Propane Dehydrogenation and
Polypropylene (PDH-PP) Plant project in Usar, Maharashtra?
1) Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
2) Indian Oil Corporation Limited

3) Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited

4) Oil India Limited
5) Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited
Answer- 3) Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
Explanation:
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and GAIL (India) Limited, India’s leading natural gas
company, have signed a 15-year agreement worth Rs 63,000 crore to supply propane to GAIL’s
Propane Dehydrogenation and Polypropylene (PDH-PP) Plant project in Usar, Maharashtra.
• GAIL’s upcoming Usar-based PHD-PP plant represents India’s 1st PDH plant, which is likely to
launch operations in 2025.
i. Under the agreement, BPCL will provide GAIL with 600 kilotonnes per annum (KTPA) of propane, a
critical petrochemical feedstock from its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) import facility in Uran
(Maharashtra).
ii. GAIL’s Usar plant is expected to have a capacity of 500 KTPA, with propylene production seamlessly
integrated into a polypropylene (PP) plant of equal capacity.
iii. BPCL’s LPG facility at Uran is capable of handling 1 million tonnes per annum (MMPTA) of LPG
imports and is expanding to accommodate 3 MMTPA of propane and butane imports.
3. Which country’s Association of Vegetable Oil Industries, ABIOVE has recently (in Nov ‘23)
signed an MoU with the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) for supply of soybean Oil
to India?
1) Netherlands
2) Brazil
3) France
4) Chile
5) Indonesia
Answer- 2) Brazil
Explanation:
The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA), a cooking oil industry body, and ABIOVE, the
Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
for close cooperation in soybean oil supply to India.
i. The agreement aims to cooperate with the supply, use, and trade of soybean, soya meal, and soybean
oil as well as oilseeds, oilseed products, and edible oils market.
ii. The MoU targets technology exchange for improved oilseed cultivation, emphasizing amplified
agricultural productivity.
4. In November 2023, UBS Securities India Private Limited raised India’s gross domestic
product (GDP) growth forecast by 10 basis points to ___________ for the fiscal year 2023-2024
(FY24).
1) 6.8%
2) 6.3%
3) 6.2%
4) 6.7%
5) 6.0%
Answer- 2) 6.3%

Explanation:
UBS Securities India Private Limited raised India’s fiscal year 2023-2024 (FY24) GDP (Gross
Domestic Product) Growth estimate by 10 basis points (100 basis points mean 1 percentage point) to
6.3% amid better-than-expected domestic economic activities
• UBS also increased India’s FY25 GDP growth forecast upwards by 20 basis points to 6.2%.
• It also projected India’s growth to settle towards the long-run average of 6.2% and 6.5% in
FY26 and FY27.
• It increased its forecast on the Indian economy’s growth potential in the medium term to 6-
6.5% from the earlier 5.75-6.25%.
5. In November 2023, ___________ became the first Indian private company to receive a type
certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
1) Skylark Drones
2) Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies
3) Airnetz Aviation
4) Skye Air Mobility
5) Indrones Defence and Aerospace
Answer- 2) Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies
Explanation:
Bengaluru(Karnataka) based Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies Private Limited
has become the first Indian private company to receive a type certification from the Directorate
General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• The type certificate was given for their indigenous Unmanned Aircraft System(UAS) called
“FWDA10”.
• FWDA10 was certified for its proper design, material, specification, construction and
performance for safe operations.
• The certification of this UAS is based on the recommendation of UL India Private Limited.
6. In November 2023, Moody’s Investors Service (MIS) retained India’s economic growth
projection at __________ for financial year 2023-24 (FY23-24).
1) 6.5%
2) 6.2%
3) 6.4%
4) 6.0%
5) 6.7%
Answer- 5) 6.7%
Explanation:
Global credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service (MIS) has retained India’s economic growth
projection at 6.7% for financial year 2023-24 (FY23-24) in its “Global Macro Outlook 2024-25
(November 2023 Update)”.
i. The report also projected India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow at 6.1% in FY24-25 and
6.3% in FY25-26.
ii. This is slightly higher than the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)‘s projection of 6.5% for 2023-24.
iii. India’s GDP grew by 7.8% in the first quarter(Q1) of FY 23-24, up from 6.1% in the fourth
quarter(Q4) of FY 22-23.

7. Name the company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) tied up with Hindustan Aeronautics
Limited (HAL) to set up a new 50/50 joint venture (JV) company to design, develop, produce,
sell, and support helicopter engines.
1) Dassault Aviation
2) Boeing Company
3) Airbus Helicopters
4) Safran Helicopter Engines
5) Lockheed Martin Corporation
Answer- 4) Safran Helicopter Engines
Explanation:
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and France based Safran Helicopter Engines have decided to
set up a new 50/50 joint venture (JV) company in Bengaluru, Karnataka to design, develop, produce,
sell, and support helicopter engines.
• This joint venture will be the first engine design and manufacturing house in India.
• The JV was formed with an aim to develop the adequate propulsion system for the Indian
Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) future 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval
version, the Deck Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
i. The establishment of the JV is based on the Memorandum of Understanding which was (MoU) which
was signed in 2022 and an agreement on workshare reached between the two partners during Aero
India 2023.
ii. In October 2023, the firms announced that they will also manufacture ring forgings for commercial
aircraft engines to power the Airbus A320Neo family and the Boeing 737 Max single-aisle airliners.
8. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a contract with Airbus to establish a
Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for the A-320 family of aircraft ?
1) Mahindra Aerospace Pvt Ltd
2) Bharat Dynamics Ltd
3) Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd
4) Bharat Electronics Ltd
5) Merlinhawk Aerospace Pvt Ltd
Answer- 3) Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd
Explanation:
On November 9, 2023, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Airbus, the largest European aircraft
manufacturer, signed a contract to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for
the A-320 family of aircraft at Nashik, Maharashtra.
i. Airbus will provide tools and consulting services, with the facility set to be operational by November
2024.
ii. The collaboration aims to meet the rising demand for MRO services in India.
iii. The facility will be available for the entire Asian region after obtaining European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) approval in partnership with Airbus.

9. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) announced to award a multi-year Rs.1000-crore
purchase order to Finland’s Nokia for the supply of Optical Transport Network (OTN)
equipment?
1) Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited
2) Bharti Airtel Limited
3) Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited
4) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited
5) Vodafone Group
Answer- 3) Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited
Explanation:
State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is set to award a multi-year Rs.1000-crore purchase
order to Finland’s Nokia for the supply of Optical Transport Network (OTN) equipment and
deployment through a local system integrator.
• The contract, part of BSNL’s Phase-4 project on a turnkey basis on the pan-India level, is to
supply, install, and commission OTN with a 3-year Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services
and comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) for 8 years.
• The contenders for this contract include domestic gear vendors United Telecoms Limited
(UTL) and Tejas Networks, a Tata Group company.
• Domestic telecom equipment manufacturer Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited
(HFCL) has front-ended the Nokia bid as the systems integrator.
10. In November 2023, Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) added _________ Indian
stocks to its MSCI Global Standard Index.
1) 5
2) 9
3) 19
4) 23
5) 15
Answer- 2) 9
Explanation:
On November 15, 2023, Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) added nine Indian stocks to its
MSCI Global Standard Index w.e.f. November 30, 2023.
i. Additions on MSCI India Index:
• IndusInd Bank, Suzlon Energy Limited, One 97 Communications (Paytm), Persistent Systems,
APL Apollo Tubes, Polycab India, Macrotech Developers, Tata Motors A (Tata Motors DVR) and
Tata Communications.
• Following the above addition, 46 stocks will be added to this index while 69 stocks will make
an exit from this index. No Indian stocks were excluded from the index.
ii. According to a report by Nuvama Alternative & Quantitative Research, the MSCI inclusions may
bring up to USD 1.5 billion in passive inflows to India.
• The maximum share of inflows will be led by IndusInd Bank at USD 290 million followed by
Suzlon at USD 264 million and Persistent Systems at USD 254 million.

11. Which company has unveiled two flagship initiatives: Bridge and Scale on its 8th
Foundation Day on 16th November 2023?
1) Startup Village
2) Technology Hub
3) UnLtd India
4) The Indus Entrepreneurs
5) Ennovent
Answer- 2) Technology Hub
Explanation:
As a part of its 8th Foundation Day (16th November 2023), Telangana government led incubator,
Technology Hub (T-Hub) unveiled two flagship initiatives: T-Bridge and T-Scale, aimed at further
propelling the growth and success of Indian startups.
i. T-Bridge: It is the International Wing of T-Hub, designed to facilitate global market access for
startups and enable them to expand their reach beyond India’s borders.
ii. T-Scale: It is a collaborative program with Factoryal Business Incubator Private Limited that will
guide 25 promising startups through a 12-month journey to Series-A funding readiness.
Note- T-Hub, which was incorporated in 2015, is a premier innovation hub and ecosystem enabler
which is headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana.
12. According to the India 2024 outlook from Goldman Sachs Group, Inc in November 2023,
India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is expected to decline to _________ in 2024
from the 6.4% estimated for 2023.
1) 5.9%
2) 6.1%
3) 6.3%
4) 6.0%
5) 6.2%
Answer- 3) 6.3%
Explanation:
According to the India 2024 outlook from Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, India’s real Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) growth is expected to decline marginally to 6.3% in 2024 from the 6.4% estimated
for 2023.
• India’s GDP is projected to grow at 6.5% in FY25 compared to 6.2% in FY24.
i. The government spending will drive growth in the 1st half, while private investment will accelerate
after the general election to become the key driver of growth.
• During the 2nd Quarter (Q2) of 2024, subsidies and transfer payments will be growth drivers
as India heads into the General election in May 2024.
ii. Headline consumer price inflation(CPI) is expected to decline to 5.1% year on year(yoy) average in
2024.
• The core inflation is expected to decline to 4.5% yoy (average) in 2024 from an estimated 5.1%
in 2023.

13. In November 2023, the ICRA Limited projected India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to
grow at ______ in the second quarter of FY 2024 (Q2FY24).
1) 6.9%
2) 6.5%
3) 8%
4) 8.3%
5) 7%
Answer- 5) 7%
Explanation:
According to the ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India
Limited), India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the second quarter of FY 2024 (Q2FY24) is
estimated to grow at 7%, surpassing the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee’s
(MPC) forecast of 6.5%. However, this growth was 7.8% in (April to June 2023) Q1FY24.
i. The Gross Value Added (GVA) growth will ease to 6.8% in (July-September 2023) Q2, driven by the
services sector at 8.2%, agriculture at 3.5%, and industry at 6.6%.
ii. ICRA maintains a GDP growth estimate of 6% for FY24, projecting a slightly lower figure than the
MPC’s projection of 6.5%.
14. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the Inland Waterways
Authority of India (IWAI) to utilize Ganga River (National Waterway/NW 1) for Cargo
Movement?
1) IndiaMART
2) Infibeam Avenues
3) Flipkart
4) Amazon
5) Meesho
Answer- 4) Amazon
Explanation:
On November 22, 2023, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Amazon signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) enabling Amazon to utilize the Ganga River (National
Waterway/NW 1) for cargo movement, transporting customer shipments and products.
i. The first ship with e-commerce cargo will soon be flagged off from Patna, Bihar to Kolkata, West
Bengal (WB).
ii. This collaboration is a significant step towards realizing the Prime Minister (PM)’s Maritime Amrit
Kaal Vision 2047 by enhancing inland waterways as an affordable and sustainable mode of
transportation and promoting cargo movement through Inland Water Transport using NW-1.
15. Name the company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with India Post to introduce an
automated digital parcel lockers service at selected post offices across India.
1) Ekart
2) Blue Dart Express
3) FedEx
4) Ecom Express
5) Delhivery Courier Service
Answer- 2) Blue Dart Express

Explanation:
Blue Dart Express Limited(Blue Dart) has partnered with India Post to introduce an automated
digital parcel lockers service at selected post offices across India.
• With this, Blue dart aims to offer an additional delivery method to its customers.
i. This partnership with India post will enable consignees to conveniently retrieve their shipments
from digital parcel lockers.
ii. To implement this initiative, Blue Dart has partnered with Pune(Maharashtra) based Podrones
Logistics Private Limited, a last-mile technology and parcel locker company.
iii. Under this partnership, India Post’s Smart Parcel delivery system (ANVIT) will collaborate with
Blue Dart’s expertise to harness the potential of Smart Parcel technology to promote efficient and
reliable logistics solutions.
16. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the Directorate General of
Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry to enable MSMEs and boost e-
commerce exports from India?
1) IndiaMART
2) Infibeam Avenues
3) Flipkart
4) Amazon India
5) Info Edge
Answer- 4) Amazon India
Explanation:
Amazon India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate General of
Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India to enable Micro,
Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and boost e-commerce exports from India.
• The collaboration aims to enable MSMEs to sell their ‘Made in India’ products to Amazon
customers in over 200 countries.
• The partnership aligns with the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, which identifies e-commerce as a
focus area for amplifying India’s exports.
i. Amazon India and the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC) signed a MoU to
enable MSMEs and boost e-commerce exports from West Bengal(WB) during the 7th edition of the
Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS).
• This collaboration aligns with the vision of the “District as Exports Hub initiative” under the
Foreign Trade Policy.
17. Which airline has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the Noida International Airport
(NIA) to become the launch carrier for the under-construction airport which is scheduled to
open at the end of 2024?
1) IndiGo
2) SpiceJet
3) Air India
4) Vistara
5) Go First
Answer- 1) IndiGo

Explanation:
Noida International Airport (NIA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IndiGo
Airlines to become the launch carrier for the under-construction airport which is scheduled to open at
the end of 2024.
• Through this MoU, IndiGo is set to become the first airline to operate flights from Noida
International Airport.
i. Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL) made a concessionaire agreement with Zurich Airport
International AG(Zurich AG) for developing the airport which is being developed by Yamuna
International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a 100% subsidiary of Zurich AG.
ii. In September 2023, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for
the world’s airlines, was allotted the three-letter code ‘DXN’ for Noida Airport.
18. In November 2023, S&P Global Rating raised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth
rate forecast for 2023-24 (FY24) by 40 basis points (bps) to __________.
1) 6.0%
2) 6.6%
3) 6.3%
4) 6.8%
5) 6.4%
Answer- 5) 6.4%
Explanation:
American credit rating agency, S&P Global Rating, has raised India’s gross domestic product (GDP)
growth rate forecast for 2023-24 (FY24) by 40 basis points(bps) to 6.4%, up from 6%. This
increase is driven by strong domestic momentum that may have offset the negative effects of high
food inflation and weak exports.
i. For FY25, India’s GDP growth projection has been reduced to 6.4% from 6.9% amid subdued global
growth, a higher base, and the lagged impact of rate hikes.
• India’s GDP exceeded the 2019 level by 15.5% in the first half of FY24 (H1FY24).
ii. Headline inflation remains above the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI’s) target of 4% and Retail
inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) slipped to 4.9% in October 2023 after 7.4% in July
2023.
MoU’s AND AGREEMENTS

1. Which ministry has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the Election Commission of
India (ECI) to develop an institutional framework to formally incorporate electoral literacy
into the school and college education system?
1) Ministry of Education
3) Ministry of Law and Justice
4) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
5) Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Answer- 1) Ministry of Education

Explanation:
On November 2, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Election
Commission of India (ECI) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) to develop an institutional framework
to formally incorporate electoral literacy into the school and college education system.
i. This MoU will extend ECI’s flagship Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation
(SVEEP) in schools and colleges.
• It envisages instilling electoral literacy in the young people through the educational
institutions.
ii. Under this MoU, there will be systematic integration of voter education and electoral literacy into
the curriculum, starting from classes 6 to 12 in all schools.
• Under the MoU, the National Council of Educational Research and Training(NCERT) will
include content on electoral literacy in school textbooks and advise state education boards to
follow the same.
2. Name the state government that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed Memoranda of
Understanding (MoUs) with India Electronic and Semiconductor Association (IESA), global
semiconductor giant Synopsys and Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion
Council (ESC).
1) Maharashtra
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Karnataka
5) Telangana
Answer- 3) Odisha
Explanation:
The Odisha government has signed 3 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 3 entities to build
an ecosystem for the manufacturing of semiconductors. The 3 entities are India Electronic and
Semiconductor Association (IESA), global semiconductor giant Synopsys and Electronics and
Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC).
i. The MoU with the IESA will facilitate capacity building and promote Odisha’s semiconductor
ecosystem through events and conceptualisation of knowledge material.
ii. The MoU with Synopsys involves engagement in areas such as the O-Chip programme, talent
transformation, workforce development, readiness assessment of Odisha in semiconductors and the
Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) domains, and internship and placement assistance to students of
engineering institutions.
iii. The MoU with the ESC will promote Electronics and Information Technology (IT)/Information
Technology Enabled Services (ITeS) exports. ESC will be provided with built-up space to set up a
dedicated office for Odisha.
3. Name the Institute that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the FSR Global to
promote collaboration in academia and research on regulatory issues of the energy sector.
1) Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
2) Indian Institute of Management Calcutta
3) Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
4) Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs

5) Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

Answer- 4) Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs
Explanation:
Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and FSR Global, an initiative of the Florence School of
Regulation (FSR), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaboration in
academia and research on regulatory issues of the energy sector.
• The MoU aims to explore innovative strategies and enhance operational capabilities in the field
of energy regulation and power management both in India and worldwide.
• The MoU also facilitates and promotes a deeper understanding of the energy sector and its
regulation.
• IICA and FSR Global will jointly offer capacity-building, research, and advisory services across
different facets of the energy sector.
4. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with RailTel to provide financial
assistance upto Rs 30,000 crore for infrastructure development projects in next 5 years?
1) REC Limited
2) Power Grid Corporation of India
3) Indian Railway Finance Corporation
4) Power Finance Corporation
5) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
Answer- 1) REC Limited
Explanation:
REC Limited (Formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) signed a memorandum of
understanding (MoU) with RailTel to provide financial assistance upto Rs 30,000 crore for
infrastructure development projects in next 5 years.
• These projects encompass a wide range of areas, including Data Center products and services,
Telecom & IT products and services, Railways & Metro projects, and the KAVACH Train
Collision Prevention System.
i. The MoU will also explore the possibility of financing overseas ventures related to High-Speed Rail,
metro, IT network, and the Upgradation of Railway Network, as part of bilateral country discussions
and Infrastructure Projects in Southeast Asia and Eastern Africa where RailTel is currently focusing.
ii. During the signing, discussions were held on the opportunities for collaboration and explored new
areas of renewable energy, smart metering where RailTel and REC (through its wholly owned
subsidiary REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited /RECPDCL) can join hands.
5. Which Institute has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with Lean Campus Startups (Trust)
and Women Entrepreneurs International Chambers of India (WEICI India) to empower
corporate and women entrepreneurs?
1) Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
2) Indian Institute of Management Calcutta
3) Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
4) Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs
5) Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
Answer- 4) Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs

Explanation:
On November 13, 2023, the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Lean Campus Startups (Trust) and Mumbai, Maharashtra based Women
Entrepreneurs International Chambers of India (WEICI India) in Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana, to
empower corporate and women entrepreneurs through various training programmes.
i. IICA in partnership with Lean Campus Startups & WEICI India aims to empower both corporate and
women entrepreneurs, augmenting their knowledge, skills, and competencies in the effective
establishment and management of a diverse workforce.
ii. In partnership with IICA, LCS will arrange programmes for women entrepreneurs and students.
6. Name the University/Institute that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with Samarkand
Institute of Economics and Services in Uzbekistan to create numerous opportunities for
students, faculty, and researchers.
1) University of Mumbai
2) Indian Institute Of Technology Madras
3) Jamia Millia Islamia
4) University of Delhi
5) Indian Institute Of Technology Bombay
Answer- 4) University of Delhi
Explanation:
The Samarkand Institute of Economics and Services in Uzbekistan and the University of Delhi
have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to create numerous opportunities for
students, faculty, and researchers from Samarkand and Delhi.
i. This partnership endorsed by both institutions, aims to facilitate valuable experiences for both
students and faculty, contributing significantly to global education and research.
ii. Within this dynamic partnership, the 2 educational institutions are aspiring to initiate a
transformative student exchange program.
7. Which organisation/Association has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a Traditional and
Complementary Medicine ‘Project Collaboration Agreement (PCA)’ with the Ministry of Ayush?
1) Indian Medical Association
2) United Nations Children's Fund
4) Indian Council of Medical Research
5) Global Health Council
Answer- 3) World Health Organization
Explanation:
On November 17, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Ayush
(Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) signed a Traditional and
Complementary Medicine ‘Project Collaboration Agreement (PCA)’ during an event organized in
Geneva, Switzerland.
i. Under this partnership, WHO will prepare Traditional Medicine Global Strategy 2025-34 with
the support of the Ministry of Ayush .
ii. The 1st phase of the PCA, 2023-28, will prove to be a milestone in the global development of the
Traditional and Complementary Medical System.

iii. Aim of PCA:

• To standardize and integrate Traditional and Complementary Medical Systems into the
National Health System, disseminating them globally.
• To advance traditional and complementary medicine by modernizing it into a globally
accepted, evidence-based healthcare while preserving its rich heritage for global well-being.
8. Which Institute has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoUs with New Delhi(Delhi) based
National Book Trust (NBT) and Daisy Forum of India (DFI) to promote inclusivity?
1) National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities
2) National Institute of Social Defence
3) Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research
4) National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities
5) National Institute of Mental Health
Answer- 4) National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities
Explanation:
On November 20, 2023, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual
Disabilities/(Divyangjan)-NIEPVD signed Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with New
Delhi(Delhi) based National Book Trust (NBT) and Daisy Forum of India (DFI) to promote inclusivity.
i. The MoU with NBT aims to establish a Universal Design Center for Reading in Dehradun,
Uttarakhand.
ii. The MoU with DFI aims to create and disseminate accessible books through Sugamya Pustakalaya,
an online library designed for persons with print disabilities in India.
9. Name the GoI Department that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the
International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
(NMBA).
1) Department of School Education & Literacy
2) Department of Art & Culture
3) Department of Social Justice & Empowerment
4) Department of Youth Affairs
5) Department of Women & Child Development
Answer- 3) Department of Social Justice & Empowerment
Explanation:
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment(DoSJE), Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment(MoSJE), and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) to synergize efforts
in combating drug abuse and building a healthier, addiction-free nation.
i. This collaboration would help in spreading the message of NMBA among the youth, women,
students, etc.
ii. The partnership with religious/spiritual organisations will boost the efforts towards achieving
drug-sensitized India.
iii. Under this partnership, ISKCON will publicize the NMBA campaign at all their meetings and
gatherings.
Note: The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment is the Nodal agency for Drug Demand
Reduction.

10. Which institute/defence sector has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with Headquarters,
Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) to provide a framework for initiating collaboration in
Defence Technology?
1) Central Reserve Police Force
2) Defence Research & Development Organisation
3) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
4) Aeronautical Development Agency
5) Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory
Answer- 3) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
Explanation:
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Headquarters, Integrated Defence
Staff (HQ IDS), and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in New Delhi, Delhi.
i. The MoU aims to provide a framework for initiating collaborative interaction between CSIR Labs,
HQ IDS, and Armed Forces (Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force).
ii. The partnership focuses on
• Enhancing scientific understanding of defence-related technologies
• Developing dual-use technologies related to defence.
• Undertaking joint research and development in dual-use technologies
11. Name the institute/NGO that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the National
Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) to collaborate on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
1) Smile Foundation
2) The Energy and Resources Institute
3) Care India
4) Sakal Relief Fund
5) HindRise
Answer- 2) The Energy and Resources Institute
Explanation:
The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and The Energy and Resources Institute
(TERI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on Disaster Risk Reduction
(DRR).
i. The MOU will formalize a strategic partnership, fostering research, capacity building, and training to
enhance Research Initiatives.
ii. Both entities will utilize their expertise to address critical challenges posed by disasters and
climate-related risks.
iii. This aims to contribute to the national agenda of disaster risk reduction, reinforcing the
importance of collaboration in building a resilient and safer India.
12. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with NRW.Global Business to
establish a launchpad program in Germany?
1) Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India
2) Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry
3) National Association of Software and Service Companies
4) Indian Economic Trade Organization
5) Confederation of Indian Industry

Answer- 3) National Association of Software and Service Companies

Explanation:
The National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) has signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with NRW.Global Business for the expansion of NASSCOM’s launchpad
program in Germany.
• This collaboration aims to promote innovation, investment, and technological exchange
between North Rhine-Westfalia (NRW) in Germany and India.
• The initiative aligns with the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between India
and the European Union (EU).
i. The launchpad program particularly benefits smaller tech companies by reducing initial setup costs
and enhancing market credibility in Germany.
ii. With this agreement, Indian tech companies looking to establish a presence in NRW will have
access to 180 days of rent-free office space.
13. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a contract with the Ministry of Defence for
the procurement and manufacturing of 16 Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM)?
1) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
2) Bharat Electronics Limited
3) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
4) Bharat Dynamics Limited
5) Defence Research and Development Organisation
Answer- 1) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
Explanation:
On November 28, 2023, Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with M/s Bharat Heavy Electricals
Limited (BHEL), Haridwar, Uttarakhand for the procurement and manufacturing of 16 Upgraded
Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) along with associated equipment/accessories for Indian Navy (IN)
under Buy (Indian) category at a total cost of Rs 2956.89 crore.
i. SRGMs will be installed onboard Indian Navy’s on serving and newly built ships by M/s Mazagon
Dock & Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, Maharashtra and Garden Reach Shipbuilders &
Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, West Bengal.
ii. The SRGMs are medium calibre anti-missile/anti-aircraft point defence weapon systems for
sustained rate of fire and high accuracy.
14. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Meta
to offer training to teachers and students in digital safety & Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual
Reality (VR) by 2025?
1) Jharkhand
2) Maharashtra
3) Telangana
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Karnataka

Explanation:
The Karnataka government signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Meta (formerly known as Facebook),
an American Multinational Social Technology Company to elevate awareness about online user safety
and digital citizenship among students and educators.
• Through this partnership, the Karnataka government plans to offer training to 1 lakh teachers
and 10 lakh students in digital safety and Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR) by
2025.
i. Under the online safety initiative, those aged 18 to 24 from 100 colleges and universities across
Karnataka would receive digital awareness training.The aim of the program was to make them more
mindful of the new trends in digital safety.
ii. Furthermore, students and teachers will also take the Digital Nagrik pledge, as a reminder and
commitment to creating a safer digital world.
APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS

1. Who has been recently (in Oct ‘23) appointed as a member of the Strategic and Technical
Advisory Group (STAG) for Tuberculosis (TB) by the World Health Organization (WHO)?
1) Shilpa Singh
2) Runki Goswami
3) Sarang Deo
4) Ravinder Singh
5) Aman Gupta
Answer- 3) Sarang Deo
Explanation:
Professor Sarang Deo, Professor of Operations Management at the Indian School of Business (ISB)
has been appointed as a member of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) for
Tuberculosis (TB) by the World Health Organization (WHO).
i. He will be a part of a 15-member expert group responsible for independently evaluating the WHO’s
efforts in eradicating TB.
Note: The 15-member STAG-TB, chaired by Ethel Leonor Maciel from the Brazilian health ministry,
includes other experts like Dr. Anurag Bhargava, Prof of Medicine from Yenepoya Medical College,
Karnataka.
2. Name the personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) appointed as the Brand Ambassador of
Henry Harvin Education (HHE).
1) Salman Rushdie
2) Kiran Desai
3) Ruskin Bond
4) Chetan Bhagat
5) Aravind Adiga
Answer- 4) Chetan Bhagat

Explanation:
Renowned Indian Author and columnist Chetan Bhagat was appointed as the Brand Ambassador of
Henry Harvin Education (HHE), a Global Edtech company based out of the United States of America
and India.
i. HHE is an online platform providing 800+ programmes for upskilling and reskilling that serves as a
career and competency development organisation.
ii. HHE provides training & advisory services to corporates and colleges across the world.
iii. Noted Works of Chetan Bhagat: Five Point Someone (2004), The 3 Mistakes of My Life (2008), 2
States (2009) and What Young India Wants(2012).
3. Who has been recently (in Oct ‘23) appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD)
of the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)?
1) Koppu Sadashiv Murthy
2) Arti Bhatnagar
3) Nalin Shinghal
4) Vijay Mittal
5) K Sivaprasad
Answer- 1) Koppu Sadashiv Murthy
Explanation:
Koppu Sadashiv Murthy has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) with effect from 1st November 2023 till the date of his
superannuation (28th February 2027) or until further orders.
i. Koppu Sadashiv Murthy, Executive Director at BHEL, will succeed Nalin Shinghal, who has been the
CMD of BHEL since July 2019.
ii. Prior to his appointment as CMD, he served as the Executive Director of the Corporate Operations
Management group at BHEL.
Note- BHEL is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) under the Ministry of Heavy
Industries (MHI). It is one of the 13 Maharatna CPSEs in India.
4. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Executive Director (ED)
of Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
1) Manoranjan Mishra
2) Ashwani Bhatia
3) Ananth Narayan Gopalakrishnan
4) Ananth Narayan
5) Amarjeet Singh
Answer- 1) Manoranjan Mishra
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Manoranjan Mishra as its Executive Director (ED) with
effect from November 1, 2023. As the ED, Manoranjan Mishra will oversee three Departments namely
Enforcement, Risk Monitoring, and External Investments & Operations.
i. Prior to his appointment as ED, he was serving as Chief General Manager in the Department of
Regulation, RBI.

ii. He has extensive experience of over 3 decades in the RBI, having worked in the areas of regulation
of banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), supervision of banks, and currency
management.
5. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the President-Renewables and Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL)?
1) Rajiv Mehrishi
2) Praveer Sinha
3) Deepesh Nanda
4) Saurabh Agrawal
5) Anjali Bansal
Answer- 3) Deepesh Nanda
Explanation:
Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, appointed Deepesh Nanda as
President-Renewables and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) of Tata
Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power, with effect from November 1,
2023.
i. He succeeded Ashish Khanna, who moved as President of Generation Business.
ii. In his new role, Deepesh Nanda will oversee Tata Power’s renewable energy portfolio, comprising
solar, wind, hybrid, and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) green energy solutions.
6. In November 2023, the Supreme Court (SC) Collegium had recommended Additional judge
Siddhartha Roy Chowdhury for the appointment as a permanent judge of the __________ High
Court (HC).
1) Meghalaya
2) Delhi
3) Bombay
4) Madras
5) Calcutta
Answer- 5) Calcutta
Explanation:
The Supreme Court (SC) Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, has
recommended Additional judge Siddhartha Roy Chowdhury for the appointment as a permanent
judge of the Calcutta High Court(HC), West Bengal(WB).
• The SC Collegium also includes Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice Sanjiv Khanna of SC of
India.
i. Justice Siddhartha Roy Chowdhury was recommended to the post by Justice T. S. Sivagnanam, CJ of
Calcutta HC.
ii. Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister (CM) of WB and C. V. Ananda Bose, Governor of WB has also
concurred with the said recommendation.
7. Which statutory body/ Government office has recently (in Nov ‘23) re-appointed Rajendra
Menon as Chairman for four years?
1) Armed Forces Tribunal
2) National Human Rights Commission of India

3) National Green Tribunal

4) Army Ordnance Corps
5) Army Medical Corps
Answer- 1) Armed Forces Tribunal
Explanation:
Former Chief Justice(CJ) of Delhi High Court (HC), Rajendra Menon has been re-appointed as
Chairman of the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) for four years.
• He will be serving as the Chairman of the Tribunal till 6th June, 2027.
• He was initially appointed to the post in 2019 succeeding Justice Virender Singh.
i. Rajendra Menon was appointed as additional judge of Madhya Pradesh (MP) HC in 2002 and was
confirmed as a permanent judge of MP HC in 2003
ii. He was promoted as CJ of the Patna High Court in 2017 and served as CJ of Delhi High Court from
2018 to 2019.
8. Name the personality from India who has recently (in Nov ‘23) re-elected as a member of the
United Nations (UN) Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ)
for a three-year term.
1) Taranjit Singh Sandhu
2) Sanjay Kumar Verma
3) Prabhat Kumar
4) Surendra Kumar Adhana
5) Virander Kumar Paul
Answer- 4) Surendra Kumar Adhana
Explanation:
Senior Indian diplomat Surendra Kumar Adhana was re-elected as a member of the United Nations
(UN) Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ) for a three-year
term, 2024–26, beginning on 1st January 2024.
i. He has been a member of ACABQ, a subsidiary organ of the United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA), since November 2022.
ii. United Nations -Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions is an expert
Committee of 21 Members elected by the UNGA for a term of three years.
iii. The members of UN-ACABQ serve in a personal capacity and not as representatives of member
states.
9. In November 2023, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) extended the tenure of
A S Rajeev, Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of __________ for 6 months.
2) Bank of Baroda
3) Bank of India
5) Canara Bank
Answer- 1) Bank of Maharashtra

Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has extended the tenure of A S Rajeev, Managing
Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) for 6 months till his
superannuation.
• He has been serving as the MD & CEO of BoM since December 2018.
i. The ACC has also extended the tenure of Matam Venkata Rao(M V Rao), MD & CEO of Central Bank
of India (CBI) till 31st July 2025.
• MV Rao has been serving as the MD & CEO of CBI since March 2021.
10. How many nodal officers from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) and the
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) have recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed to act against
film piracy on Digital Platforms?
1) 21
2) 16
3) 12
4) 20
5) 25
Answer- 3) 12
Explanation:
The government has appointed 12 nodal officers from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
(MIB) and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to combat film piracy. The authorised nodal
officers now have the power to block pirated film content across various platforms.
• The action has been taken under Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
i. The officers will handle complaints related to film piracy, ensuring action will be taken within 48
hours of receiving a complaint.
ii. The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023 amends the Cinematograph Act, 1952 to address
issues relating to film certification, unauthorised recording, exhibition of films and film piracy.
11. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Additional director (Non-Executive
Independent Director) of Dabur India Limited for a period of 5 years?
1) S. Narayan
2) Ajit Mohan Sharan
3) Satyavati Berera
4) Rajiv Mehrishi
5) Sushil Chandra
Answer- 5) Sushil Chandra
Explanation:
Dabur India Limited appointed Mr. Sushil Chandra, the former (24th) Chief Election Commissioner
(CEC) of India as an Additional director, in the category of Non-Executive Independent Director for a
period of 5 years with effect from November 2, 2023, till November 1, 2028.
• Sushil Chandra is a 1980 batch Indian Revenue Services (IRS) (Information Technology)
officer. He previously served as Chairperson of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).

12. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) sworn in as the Chief Information Commissioner (Chief
IC) of the Central Information Commission (CIC)?
1) Ajay Kumar
2) Heeralal Samariya
3) Anandi Ramalingam
4) Vinod Kumar Tiwari
5) Jayanth Kumar
Answer- 2) Heeralal Samariya
Explanation:
On 6th November 2023, Heeralal Samariya was sworn in as the Chief Information Commissioner
(Chief IC) of the Central Information Commission (CIC). He became the first Scheduled Caste Indian
Administrative Service (IAS) officer to hold the post.
• Draupadi Murmu, President of India, administered the oath of office at the function at
Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, Delhi.
• He succeeds Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha, whose tenure as chief of CIC ended on 3rd October
2023.
i. Heeralal Samariya administered the oath of office to Information Commissioners (IC) of CIC Anandi
Ramalingam and Vinod Kumar Tiwari, Indian Forest Service (IFS) Officer, at a swearing-in ceremony
organized in CIC in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. Prior to the appointment, Anandi Ramalingam was serving as the Chairman and Managing Director
(CMD) of Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Vinod Kumar Tiwari, was serving as the Head of Himachal
Pradesh Forest Department, Shimla
13. Which organisation has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed Goverdhan S. Rawat and Dr. Ajay
Kumar Sood as Deputy Managing Directors (Dy MDs) for a tenure of 5 years?
2) Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority
3) Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
Answer- 5) National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
Explanation:
The Government of India has appointed Goverdhan S. Rawat and Dr. Ajay Kumar Sood as Deputy
Managing Directors (Dy MDs) of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), an
apex development bank administered by the Ministry of Finance.
i. Goverdhan S. Rawat has been appointed for a tenure of 5 years with effect from the taking over
charge of the post or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
ii. Ajay Kumar Sood will hold the post till his superannuation on 31st August 2027.
14. Which of the following personalities have been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as a part-
time member of the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)?
1) Vidhu Sood & Smita Jhingran
2) R. Narayanaswamy & Sanjay Kallapur
3) Praveen Kumar Tiwari & R. Narayanaswamy
4) Sanjay Kallapur & Smita Jhingran

5) R. Narayanaswamy & Vidhu Sood

Answer- 2) R. Narayanaswamy & Sanjay Kallapur
Explanation:
The Government of India has appointed Sanjay Kallapur and R. Narayanaswamy was a part-time
member of the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), India’s independent accounting
regulator for 3 years.
• Sanjay Kallapur was on the Board of Directors of IDBI Bank.
• From 2018 to 2021, he served as an International Council Member-at-large for the American
Accounting Association.
• He is a member of the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) Corporate Reporting
Consortium.
15. Name the Actor who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the UPI (Unified Payments
Interface) Safety Ambassador of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
1) Ajay Devgn
2) Akshay Kumar
3) Pankaj Tripathi
4) Vicky Kaushal
5) Varun Dhawan
Answer- 3) Pankaj Tripathi
Explanation:
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has appointed Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi
as its ‘UPI(Unified Payments Interface) Safety Ambassador‘ to strengthen safety awareness and
security on digital payment platforms.
• This initiative underscores the importance of the security and safety of digital payment
platforms, especially in the context of the UPI.
i. In 2018, he won his 1st National Film Award– Special Mention for the movie Newton (2017).
ii. In 2023, he won his 2nd National Film Award– Best Supporting Actor for his performance in the
2021 film Mimi.
16. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Chief Executive of the Association of
Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)?
1) Atish Mathur
2) Navneet Munot
3) Venkat Nageswar Chalasani
4) Jayanth Kumar
5) Ajay Sharma
Answer- 3) Venkat Nageswar Chalasani
Explanation:
The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), a self-regulatory organisation (SRO) for the Mutual
Fund (MF) industry in India appointed Venkat Nageswar Chalasani, former Deputy Managing
Director (DMD) of the International Banking Group of State Bank of India (SBI), as its new Chief
Executive.
• He will replace N.S. Venkatesh, who has served 2 consecutive terms of 3 years each since
October 2017.

• As a new Chief Executive, Venkat Nageswar Chalasani would focus on the MF industry's growth
aspects and AMFI 2.0 strategy.
17. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a partnership with Indian Shuttler
Prannoy Haseena Sunil Kumar (HS Prannoy) for brand promotion.
1) ICICI Bank
2) Federal Bank
3) Axis Bank
4) Kotak Mahindra Bank
5) IDFC FIRST Bank
Answer- 2) Federal Bank
Explanation:
Federal Bank Limited has signed a partnership with Indian Shuttler Prannoy Haseena Sunil
Kumar (HS Prannoy)(31) for an exclusive collaboration.
• Under this annual partnership, Federal Bank will be the exclusive banking partner.
• The partnership aims to promote the Bank’s strategy to invest in various adjacent domains to
enhance its brand’s influence.
i. Under this partnership, H S Prannoy will display the Federal Bank logo in several upcoming
Badminton World Federation (BWF) events, including the BWF World Tour, BWF Gold Series, and
BWF World Badminton Championships.
ii. He will also promote the brand by carrying the logo of the bank during post-match interviews.
18. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) became the Fleet Commander of the Indian Navy’s Western
Fleet?
1) Rear Admiral Gurcharan Singh
2) Rear Admiral Vineet McCarty
3) Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar
4) Rear Admiral CR Praveen Nair
5) Rear Admiral Deepak Kumar Goswami
Answer- 4) CR Praveen Nair
Explanation:
Rear Admiral CR Praveen Nair, officially assumed the role of Flag Officer Commanding the Western
Fleet on November 10, 2023, marking a change in leadership for the Western Fleet, the Sword Arm of
the Indian Navy.
i. He succeeded Rear Admiral Vineet McCarty, who became the Fleet Commander of the Western
Fleet in November 2022.
ii. A ceremonial naval parade was held at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and the baton
of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet was handed over by Rear Admiral Vineet McCarty.
iii. Rear Admiral Nair was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 July 1991 and served as Assistant
Chief of Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi.

19. In November 2023, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a new ‘Commission
on Social Connection (2024–2026)’ to address loneliness as a serious health risk, and prioritise
social connection.
Which of the following personalities will co-chair the 11 member commission?
1) Vivek Murthy & Chido Mpemba
2) Ralph Regenvanu & Cleopa Mailu
3) Karen DeSalvo & Vivek Murthy
4) Jakob Forssmed & Ralph Regenvanu
5) Chido Mpemba & Karen DeSalvo
Answer- 1) Vivek Murthy & Chido Mpemba
Explanation:
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced a new ‘Commission on Social Connection
(2024–2026)’, comprising 11 leading policy-makers, thought leaders, and advocates, to address
loneliness as a serious health risk, prioritise social connection, and accelerate the implementation of
solutions in countries of all income levels.
• The Commission will be Co-chaired by Dr. Vivek Murthy, Surgeon General of the United
States of America; and Chido Mpemba, Youth Envoy, African Union Commission.
i. The Commission will propose a global agenda on social connection and will work alongside high-
level Commissioners for the implementation of mechanisms to measure and track global progress on
social connection.
ii. The Commission’s comprehensive analysis spans 3 years and will focus on understanding the
pivotal role social connections play in enhancing health across all age groups.
20. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) re-elected Pedro Sánchez as the Prime Minister
(PM)?
1) Norway
2) Italy
3) Belgium
4) Spain
5) Hungary
Answer- 4) Spain
Explanation:
On 16th November 2023, Pedro Sánchez of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party(Spanish acronym:
PSOE) was re-elected as the Prime Minister (PM) of Spain, officially President of the Government of
Spain.He was elected for the 2nd term with a majority in the Spanish parliament. He got 179 votes in
the 350-seat lower house of the Parliament.
• He has been serving as the Acting PM of Spain since 25th July 2023.
• He served as the PM of Spain/President of the Government of Spain from 2018 to 2023.
• In July 2023, he was appointed as the caretaker Prime Minister after no party got a majority in
the general election held on 23rd July 2023.
• PSOE finished second with 121 seats while the centre-right Popular Party (PP) finished first
with 137 seats but fell short of the majority to form government.

21. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Director, Managing Director (MD) &
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Key Managerial Personnel of the Kotak Mahindra Bank, for 3
years?
1) Uday Shankar
2) Dipak Gupta
3) Ashok Vaswani
4) Prakash Apte
5) C. Jayaram
Answer- 3) Ashok Vaswani
Explanation:
Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL) has appointed Ashok Vaswani as a Director, Managing
Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Key Managerial Personnel of the Bank, for 3
years, with effect from January 1, 2024.
• The appointment received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in October 2023.
• He will succeed Dipak Gupta, whose term as the MD & CEO, and Key Managerial Personnel of
KMBL ends on December 31, 2023.
• Dipak Gupta took over as the interim CEO of KMBL for 2 months from September 2023 till
December 2023, after founder-CEO Uday Kotak stepped down in September 2023.
• Uday Kotak, who is the Founder and Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, served as the MD and
CEO of the bank since its inception in 2003.
22. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) elected Javier Milei as the new president?
1) Poland
2) Lithuania
3) Finland
4) Ecuador
5) Argentina
Answer- 5) Argentina
Explanation:
On November 19, 2023, Javier Milei (53) of Libertarian Party was elected as the new president of
Argentina. He will succeed the current Argentina President Alberto Fernández after assuming office
on December 10, 2023.
• Milei won the election with 56% votes against 44% for his rival, Peronist Economy Minister
Sergio Massa.
• He authored many books and Journal articles. His book ‘The End of Inflation: Eliminate the
Central Bank, End the Inflation Tax Scam, and Return to Being a Serious Country’ released in
2023
• His biography is ‘El Loco’ by the journalist Juan Luis González.
23. In November 2023, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the
appointment of Vinay M Tonse as the Managing Director (MD) of _____________ (Bank) for two
years.
1) Bank of India
2) Bank of Baroda

4) Indian Bank
5) State Bank of India
Answer- 5) State Bank of India
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi,
has approved the appointment of Vinay M Tonse as the Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of
India (SBI) for two years till November 2025.
• Prior to this appointment, Vinay Tonse was serving as the Deputy MD (Corporate Account
Group) of SBI.
i. Vinay M Tonse was recommended to the post by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) in
September 2023.
ii. The post (MD of SBI) fell vacant in June 2023 after the appointment of Swaminathan Janakiraman
as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India(RBI).
24. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed Luc Frieden as the 23rd Prime Minister
(PM)?
1) Cambodia
2) Luxembourg
3) Finland
4) Paraguay
5) Turkey
Answer- 2) Luxembourg
Explanation:
On November 17, 2023, Luc Frieden (60), a member of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV), was
sworn in as the 23rd Prime Minister (PM) of Luxembourg. He succeeds Xavier Bettel of Liberal
Democratic Party (DP), who served as PM of Luxembourg from 2013 to 2023.
• The PM and the new ministers of the coalition government (CSV-Liberal DP) took oaths of
office during a ceremony officiated by Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg(Head of State).
i. Outgoing PM Xavier Bettel was appointed as deputy PM and foreign minister. Gilles Roth of CSV
was appointed as the new Finance Minister of Luxembourg and 7 ministerial positions were given to
DP and 8 were given to CSV.
25. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given approval to the appointment
of five __________ (company) representatives: Amar Chintopanth, Shardchandra V Zaregaonkar,
Moses Newling Harding John, Bhumika Batra, and Arun Tiwari as directors on the board of
Reliance Capital.
1) Godrej Group
2) Tata Group
3) Aditya Birla Group
4) Hinduja Group
5) Mahindra Group
Answer- 4) Hinduja Group

Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given approval to the appointment of five Hinduja Group
representatives including Amar Chintopanth, Shardchandra V Zaregaonkar, Moses Newling Harding
John, Bhumika Batra, and Arun Tiwari as directors on the board of Reliance Capital.
i. RBI also announced its no objection to the transfer of control of Reliance Capital Ltd to IIHL banking,
financial services, and insurance (BFSI) (India) Ltd (wholly owned subsidiary of IndusInd
International Holdings Ltd).
ii. While granting approval to Rs 10,000 crore resolution plan and the appointment of the directors,
RBI laid down the condition that Hinduja group-run IndusInd Bank Ltd should maintain an arm’s
length distance from Reliance Capital.
26. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Brand Ambassador of
West Bengal?
1) Sourav Ganguly
2) Shah Rukh Khan
3) Leander Paes
4) Mithun Chakraborty
5) Amartya Sen
Answer- 1) Sourav Ganguly
Explanation:
Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister (CM) of West Bengal (WB) named former Indian cricketer and
Padma Shri Awardee Sourav Ganguly as the “Brand Ambassador of West Bengal '' and handed over
the Appointment letter.
• The announcement was made during the 7th edition of the Bengal Global Business Summit
(BGBS 2023) held in Kolkata(WB).
• Sourav Ganguly, popularly known as “Dada '' or “Prince of Kolkata '', represented India from
1992 to 2008. In 1998, he received the Arjuna Award(Cricket), for his outstanding
achievements in sports.
• In 2004, he was honoured with the Padma Shri in the field of Sports.
Note: Prior to this appointment, renowned Bollywood Actor Shah Rukh Khan has been serving as the
brand ambassador of Bengal since 2012.
27. Which bank has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed Lakshmi Ramakrishna Srinivas as the
Additional Director?
1) RBL Bank
4) IDFC FIRST Bank
5) City Union Bank
Answer- 3) South Indian Bank
Explanation:
Lakshmi Ramakrishna Srinivas was appointed as the Additional Director of the South Indian
Bank Limited, a Private Sector Bank headquartered in Thrissur, Kerala. She was appointed as a non-
executive Independent Director (ID) for a 3-year term from November 20, 2023.

i. Lakshmi Ramakrishna Srinivas started her banking career as a Probationary Officer(PO) in State
Bank of India(SBI) in 1985 and retired as the Chief General Manager & Head-Strategic Training
Unit(STU), SBI in June 2023.
ii. She also served as Director of State Bank Staff College (SBSC), Hyderabad, Telangana.
28. Name the personality from India who was recently (in Nov ‘23) elected as the Vice-Chair of
the United Nations (UN) Panel of External Auditors for 2024.
1) Shashi Kant Sharama
2) Vinod Rai
3) Rajiv Mehrishi
4) Girish Chandra Murmu
5) V.N. Kaul
Answer- 4) Girish Chandra Murmu
Explanation:
Girish Chandra Murmu, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, was elected as the Vice-
Chair of the United Nations (UN) Panel of External Auditors for 2024.
i. The Panel has elected Pierre Moscovici, First President of Cour des comptes, French Republic, as its
Chair for 2024.
ii. The announcements were made during the 63rd session of the Panel held at the UN Headquarters
in New York, the United States of America (USA) from 20-21 November 2023.
iii. The session was chaired by Isma Yatun, chair of the panel (2023) and Chairperson of the Audit
Board of the Republic of Indonesia
29. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the brand ambassador of AS-IT-IS Nutrition?
1) Rohit Sharma
2) Suryakumar Yadav
3) Ravindra Jadeja
4) Virat Kohli
5) KL Rahul
Answer- 3) Ravindra Jadeja
Explanation:
AS-IT-IS Nutrition, a fitness and sports nutrition brand, has appointed Indian cricketer Ravindrasinh
Anirudhsinh Jadeja (Ravindra Jadeja) as its brand ambassador.
• The collaboration aims to work as a catalyst for change, encouraging individuals to prioritise
their health and well-being.
i. Ravindra Jadeja(34) made his first Under-19(U-19) appearance for India in 2005 at the age of 16.
ii. He made his IPL debut in 2008 and has played for Rajasthan Royals(2008-2009); Kochi Tuskers
Kerala(2011); Chennai Super Kings (CSK) (2012-2015 and 2018-present) and Gujarat Lions (2016-
2017).
iii. In 2013, He became the first Indian bowler after Anil Kumble (1996) to top the International
Cricket Council (ICC)’s ODI bowlers’ rankings.

30. Name the company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed Rashid Khan Arman
(Afghanistan spinner) as the brand ambassador.
1) Nodwin Gaming
2) SportsBaazi
3) Jio Games
4) Krafton Inc
5) Gameskraft
Answer- 2) SportsBaazi
Explanation:
SportsBaazi (formerly BalleBaazi), a sports gaming platform, has appointed Afghanistan spinner
Rashid Khan Arman as its brand ambassador.
i. This decision aligns with SportsBaazi’s redesigned brand identity, which aims to provide thrilling
new formats and unique user experiences to alter fans’ interactions with sports.
ii. As part of the collaboration, Khan will enhance SportsBaazi’s core message ‘Play LIVE. WIN LIVE’
with a focus on the Watch and Play category.
iii. He made his IPL debut in 2017 and played for SunRisers Hyderabad (2017-21) and Gujarat Titans
(2022-present).
iv. Guinness World Record:
• Youngest international cricket captain (male)- He was named the captain of the Afghanistan
cricket team in 2018 at the age of 19 years 165 days.
• He holds a record for the most international wickets taken by a teenager – 176 international
games, including 110 in ODIs.
31. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) named as the President-elect of Federation of Indian
Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for 2023-2024?
1) Ajay Kumar
2) S K Pathak
3) Harsha V Agarwal
4) Sanjiv Mehta
5) Anish Shah
Answer- 5) Anish Shah
Explanation:
Dr. Anish Shah, Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Mahindra Group,
named as the President-elect of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for
2023-2024.
i. He will succeed Subhrakant Panda, the incumbent President of FICCI after the 96th Annual General
Meeting which is set to be held in December 8-9 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. He is currently serving as the Senior Vice President of FICCI.
32. Cricketer Meghann Moira Lanning recently (in Nov ’23) announced her retirement from
International Cricket.
Which country did she represent in International Cricket?
1) Australia
2) New Zealand
3) Ireland

4) England
5) West Indies
Answer- 1) Australia
Explanation:
Meghann Moira Lanning (Meg Lanning), Captain of Australian women’s cricket team announced
retirement from international cricket at the age of 31.
i. Meg Lanning, nicknamed “Megastar”, had scored over 8,000 runs across all formats, including 17
centuries. She holds the record for the most Women’s One Day International centuries. (15 centuries).
• In 2011, she became the youngest Australian cricketer (18 years old) to score an international
century.
ii. She has won a total of 7 ICC Women’s World Cup titles:
• Two Women’s Cricket World Cup – ODI (2013 and 2022)
• Five ICC Women’s World Twenty20(T20) titles (2012, 2014, 2018, 2020 and 2023)
iii. She holds the record of winning most ICC tournaments as a captain in Cricket. Under her captaincy,
Australia won 5 ICC titles (T20 – 2014, 2018, 2020 and 2023 & ODI – 2022.)
• Awards: She was named ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2014 and ICC Women’s
ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2015.
33. In November 2023, Pakistan all-rounder ___________ announced his retirement from
International Cricket.
1) Iftikhar Ahmed
2) Saim Ayub
3) Imam-ul-Haq
4) Mohammad Nawaz
5) Syed Imad Wasim Haider
Answer- 5) Syed Imad Wasim Haider
Explanation:
Pakistan all-rounder Syed Imad Wasim Haider (34 years) has announced his retirement from
international cricket.
i. Imad Wasim made his international debut in 2015 in a One Day International (ODI) match against
Sri Lanka. In the same year he made his Twenty 20 International (T20I) debut against Zimbabwe.
• He played his last game in April, 2023 against New Zealand in T20I format.
34. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the 40th Chief Secretary of Karnataka?
1) Krishana Babu
2) Rajneesh Goel
3) Vandita Sharma
4) Ravi Kumar
5) Avinash Joshi
Answer- 2) Rajneesh Goel
Explanation:
Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister(CM) of Karnataka, has appointed Rajneesh Goel as the 40th Chief
Secretary of Karnataka. He will hold the post till his retirement in July 2024 or until further orders.
He is currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) in the Home Department of the
Government of Karnataka.

i. He will succeed Vandita Sharma, the incumbent Chief Secretary (since May 2022) who is set to
retire on 30th November 2023.
ii. Rajneesh Goel is a 1986 batch IAS officer of Haryana Cadre. He has also served as the Commissioner
of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the administrative body of Greater Bengaluru
metropolitan area.
35. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) re-elected Andry Rajoelina as the President for 3rd
term?
1) Madagascar
2) Ethiopia
3) Mozambique
4) Nigeria
5) Zimbabwe
Answer- 1) Madagascar
Explanation:
Incumbent President of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina, leader of Young Malagasies Determined
(Tanora Malagasy Vonona, TGV) party, was re-elected as the President of Madagascar for 3rd term.
i. He won 59% of the vote defeating former President Marc Ravalomanana (14.4%) and former judo
champion, Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko(12%).
• Previously, he has served as the President of Madagascar from 2009 to 2014 and from 2019 to
2023.
ii. Andry Rajoelina, a Malagasy entrepreneur and former DJ(disc jockey), entered politics in 2007. He
became the youngest president in Madagascar's history.
36. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Part-time Chairman of Fino Payment Bank?
1) Vinod Kumar
2) Rajat Kumar Jain
3) Shailesh Pandey
4) Rishi Gupta
5) Anand Bhatia
Answer- 2) Rajat Kumar Jain
Explanation:
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Rajat Kumar Jain as the Part-time
Chairman of Fino Payment Bank (Fino Bank) with effect from 24th November 2023, until 1st
November 2025.
i. He is currently serving as an Independent Director in Fino bank.
ii. He is a Founder-Director of PadUp Ventures, a Knowledge and Mentoring Platform.
iii. He has also served as the MD and global senior vice president at Walt Disney India from July 2004
to June 2007.
37. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the President of the Rural
Marketing Association of India (RMAI) for the 2023-2025.
1) Puneet Vidyarthi
2) Biswabaran Chakrabarti
3) Praveen Gupta

4) Jayanth Kumar
5) Ajay Kumar
Answer- 1) Puneet Vidyarthi
Explanation:
The Rural Marketing Association of India (RMAI), the premier body of rural marketers in India, has
appointed Puneet Vidyarthi as its President for the 2023-2025 during its 18th Annual General
Meeting (AGM).
• Puneet Vidyarthi succeeds Biswabaran Chakrabarti, incumbent President of RMAI (since
2019).
i. Puneet Vidyarthi is the Head of Marketing, and Business Development (BD), India & SAR at Case
New Holland (CNH) Construction Equipment India, CNH Industrial (India) Pvt Ltd.
ii. He also served as the Associate Vice President and Head of Marketing and Digital Innovations at JCB
India Ltd.
38. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir
(J&K)?
1) Praveen Kumar
2) Gurpreet Singh
3) Atal Dulloo
4) Manav Gupta
5) Arvind Karwani
Answer- 3) Atal Dulloo
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Atal Dulloo, a 1988 batch Indian
Administrative Service (IAS) officer, as Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) with effect from
1st December 2023 or from date of assumption of charge, whichever is later and until further orders.
i. He will replace the incumbent Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta who is set to retire on 30th
November 2023.
ii. He is currently serving as Secretary, Department of Border Management under Ministry of Home
Affairs (MHA).
Note- Both the incoming and outgoing Chief Secretaries belong to Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram
and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

1. Who has been recently (in Oct ‘23) honoured with the 2023 Global Leadership Award for
Philanthropy and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by the US-India Strategic Partnership
Forum (USISPF)?
1) Cyrus Poonawalla
2) Gautam Adani
3) Shiv Nadar
4) Radhakishan Damani
5) Nita Ambani
Answer- 5) Nita Ambani

Explanation:
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) honoured Nita Ambani, founder and
Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, with the 2023 Global Leadership Award for Philanthropy and
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
i. John Chambers, Chairman of USISPF, presented the award to Nita Ambani at the award ceremony
held in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. Reliance Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) established in
2010.
2. In October 2023, Argentina’s Lionel Andrés Messi won the Ballon d’Or award or Golden Ball
Award for the record ______ time and __________ won the Ballon d’Or (Women) award.
1) 7th; Ada Hegerberg (Norway)
2) 8th; Aitana Bonmatí Conca (spain)
3) 7th; Alexia Putellas (spain)
4) 9th; Ada Hegerberg (Norway)
5) 6th; Aitana Bonmatí Conca (spain)
Answer- 2) 8th; Aitana Bonmatí Conca (spain)
Explanation:
Argentina’s Lionel Andrés Messi (Lionel Messi), who plays as a forward for Inter Miami CF has won
the Ballon d’Or award or Golden Ball Award for the record 8th time.
• Messi is the first active player in Major League Soccer (MLS)(played in United States) history to
win this award.
i. Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí Conca (Aitana Bonmati) has won the Ballon d’Or (Women) award or Ballon
d’Or Féminin Award.
ii. The 67th edition of the Ballon d’Or 2023 was held on 30th October 2023 at the Théâtre du Châtelet,
Paris, France.
• The Ballon d’Or is annually presented by the French magazine ‘France Football’, since 1956.
• It was awarded based on achievements from the past season.
• This was the fifth edition of the Women’s Ballon d’Or since the first edition was held in 2018.
3. Which of the following cities has/have recently (in Oct ‘23) featured in the list of United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network
(UCCN)?
1) Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh)- UNESCO City of Music
2) Kozhikode (Kerala)- UNESCO City of Literature
3) Kolkata (West Bengal)-UNESCO City of Joy
4) Both 1 & 2
5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
On the occasion of World Cities Day (31 October 2023), 55 cities joined the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network (UCCN). The list
featured 2 Indian Cities namely Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) and Kozhikode (Kerala).
i. Gwalior has been designated as the UNESCO ‘City of Music’ and Kozhikode as the UNESCO ‘City of
Literature’.

ii. With the latest inclusion, UCCN now counts 350 cities in more than 100 countries, representing 7
creative fields namely:
iii. Crafts and Folk Art; Design, Film; Gastronomy; Literature; Media Arts; and Music.
4. Which word has been selected as Word of the Year 2023 by the Collins Dictionary in October
2023?
1) AI
2) Deinfluencing
3) Moonlighting
4) Quite Quitting
5) Bazball
Answer- 1) AI
Explanation:
Collins Dictionary, a printed and online English dictionary published by HarperCollins in Glasgow,
Scotland, has named “AI” abbreviation for Artificial Intelligence, as the “Word of the Year 2023”.
i. ‘AI’, the uncountable noun, describes ‘the modelling of human mental functions by computer
programs’.
ii. Lexicographers (a person who compiles dictionaries) of Collins Dictionary stated that the use of the
term “AI” has increased and dominated the conversations of 2023.
5. Who has recently (in Oct ‘23) won the 11th British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural
Understanding (2023) for a book titled “Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins
of Empire”?
1) Arundhati Roy
2) Nandini Das
3) Kiran Desai
4) Salman Rushdie
5) Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Answer- 2) Nandini Das
Explanation:
India-born author Nandini Das, based in the United Kingdom (UK), has been named the winner of the
11th British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding (2023), for her debut book
titled “Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire”.
• The announcement was made by the Chair of the Book Prize judging panel, Professor Charles
Tripp, Fellow of the British Academy (FBA), at an event at the British Academy, London, UK.
i. The book is described as the origin story of Britain and India through the story of the arrival of Sir
Thomas Roe, first English ambassador in India, in the early 17th century.
ii. This is considered as a true origin story of Britain and India.
6. In October 2023, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) presented the maiden
‘NIB’ (Navy’s Intellectual Beacon) to commander ___________ , winner of IndianNavy’s Sardar KM
Panikkar ‘NIB’ essay competition.
1) Krishna Swaminathan
2) Sanjay Jasjit Singh
3) R. Hari Kumar

4) Anil Chauhan
5) M Arun Chakravarthy
Answer- 5) M Arun Chakravarthy
Explanation:
Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) has presented the maiden ‘NIB’ (Navy’s
Intellectual Beacon) to Commander M Arun Chakravarthy, winner of IndianNavy’s Sardar KM
Panikkar ‘NIB’ essay competition.
i. He also received the unique badge (NIB), introduced for the winner to wear on his/ her uniform for
1 year duration.
ii. ‘NIB’ essay competition was introduced to promote reading, writing, and thinking skills amongst
the Naval community.
7. In November 2023, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) president ___________ received the
Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President’s Recognition Bronze Award for grassroots
football, while _______(country) Football Association won the Gold Award.
1) Deepak Sharma; Chinese Taipei
2) Kalyan Chaubey; Australia
3) Deepak Sharma; United Arab Emirates
4) Kalyan Chaubey; Chinese Taipei
5) Anilkumar; Australia
Answer- 2) Kalyan Chaubey; Australia
Explanation:
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has won the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President’s
Recognition Bronze Award for grassroots football. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey received the
award at the AFC Annual Awards 2022 in Doha, Qatar.
i. AFC President Recognition Awards for Grassroots Football ‘Gold’ won by Football Australia.
ii. AFC President Recognition Awards for Grassroots Football ‘Silver’ won by the Guam Football
Association
• AIFF has introduced several grassroots football development plans including the AIFF Blue
Cubs programme, Blue Cubs coaching courses, Blue Cubs leagues, Blue Cubs football schools,
and AIFF Grassroots Awards.
8. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the second edition of Rohini Nayyar
prize 2023 for an outstanding contribution to Rural Development.
1) Prakash Amte
2) Deenanath Rajput
3) Munishwar Chander Dawar
4) Dilip Mahalanabis
5) Appukuttan Poduval
Answer- 2) Deenanath Rajput
Explanation:
The Software engineer-turned-social worker Deenanath Rajput (33) from Jagdalpur, Bastar,
Chhattisgarh has won the second edition of Rohini Nayyar prize 2023 for an Outstanding
Contribution to Rural Development. The award was presented by Nand Kishore(NK) Singh who is the
Chairman of the Fifteenth Finance Commission.

i. The prize was announced at the function which was held at India International Centre(IIC) in New
Delhi, Delhi.
• Deenanath Rajput worked for the upliftment of over 6,000 tribal women in Bastar,
Chhattisgarh, a region known for its challenges, including Naxalite activities.
• For that purpose, he founded Bhumgadi Mahila Krushak Producer Company Limited in 2018.
Note- The award was instituted by Nayyar Foundation in 2022, in the memory of former bureaucrat
Dr Rohini Nayyar IAS.
9. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 2023 Champions of the
Earth announced by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in November 2023?
A) Josefina Belmonte Mayor of Quezon City (Philippines) won the 2023 Champions of the Earth
under Policy Leadership Category & Ellen MacArthur Foundation (United Kingdom) won under
Inspiration and Action Category.
B) Blue Circle (China) & José Manuel Moller (Chile) won the 2023 Champions of the Earth
under Entrepreneurial Vision Category.
C) Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) (South Africa) won the 2023 Champions
of the Earth under Science and Innovation Category.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced its 2023 Champions of the
Earth, the United Nations(UN)’s highest environmental honour to recognise individuals, groups, and
organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment.
i. The 2023 laureates – a city mayor, a non-profit foundation, a social enterprise, a government
initiative and a research council- are implementing solutions and policies to eliminate plastic
pollution.
2023 Laureates:
2023 Laureates Category
Josefina Belmonte Mayor of Quezon City (Philippines) Policy Leadership
Ellen MacArthur Foundation (United Kingdom) Inspiration and Action
Blue Circle (China) Entrepreneurial Vision
José Manuel Moller (Chile)
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) (South Africa) Science and Innovation

10. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 5th edition of the Hindu
BusinessLine Changemaker Awards presented by the Union Minister of Power Raj Kumar
Singh in November 2023?
A) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was named the Changemaker of the Year 2023 and Amul, the
brand of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) based in Anand, Gujarat was
named Iconic Changemaker.
B) Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) under the Department of Financial Services
Ministry of Finance won the award in Changemaker – Financial Transformation Category.
C) Shrinidhi RS, creator of CherriLearn, won the award under Young Changemaker Category.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Union Minister Raj Kumar Singh, Ministry of Power honoured the winners of the 5th edition of The
Hindu BusinessLine Changemaker Awards during the award ceremony held in New Delhi, Delhi.
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was named the Changemaker of the Year 2023 and Amul, the
brand of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) based in Anand, Gujarat
was named Iconic Changemaker.
• RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of GCMMF received the
award on behalf of RBI and AMUL respectively.
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is the financial inclusion program under the
Department of Financial Services Ministry of Finance, government of India won the
Changemaker – Financial Transformation.
• Shrinidhi RS is the creator of CherriLearn, an education app which offers gamified lessons in
regional languages to children of standards 1-5 winning the award under Young
Changemaker Category.
11. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) nominated as the Regional Director of the World Health
Organisation (WHO) South-East Asia Region (SEAR)?
1) Saima Wazed (Bangladesh)
2) Edwin Salvador (Indonesia)
3) Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti (Botswana)
4) Poonam Khetrapal Singh (India)
5) Shambhu Prasad Acharya (Bhutan)
Answer- 1) Saima Wazed (Bangladesh)
Explanation:
On 1st November 2023, Saima Wazed, the candidate of Bangladesh, was nominated as the
Regional Director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) South-East Asia Region (SEAR), one of the
6 WHO Regions.
i. Saima Wazed, the daughter of Bangladesh Prime Minister(PM) Sheikh Hasina, won the election with
8 votes(including Bangladesh and India).

ii. Following the appointment, She will succeed the incumbent Regional director Dr. Poonam
Khetrapal Singh (since 2014) from India on 1st February 2024.
Note- 11 Members of SEAR: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea(South
Korea), India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Timor-Leste.
• Myanmar was not eligible to vote.
12. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Global Responsible
Tourism Award 2023 presented in November 2023?
A) The Responsible Tourism Partnership and International Centre for Responsible Tourism
(ICRT) announced the 8 winners of the Global Responsible Tourism Award 2023.
B) Kerala Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission won the award under Best for local sourcing, craft
and food category for promoting sustainable and women-inclusion initiatives.
C) Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) from India won the award under Best for meaningful
connections category.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Responsible Tourism Partnership and International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT)
announced the 8 winners of the Global Responsible Tourism Award 2023, which includes Kerala
Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission(Kerala) and Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) from India.
Winners of Global Responsible Tourism Award 2023:
Category Winner
Best for nature-positive tourism Wildlife Act, South Africa
Best for meaningful connections Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad, Gujarat (India)
Uthando, South Africa
Best for diversity and inclusion The Batuc Network, from Bahia in Brazil
Best for local sourcing, craft and Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission, Kerala
food (India)
Ngwenya Glass, Estwatini
Best for tackling plastic waste Lemala Camps and Lodges in Tanzania

Best for addressing climate change Weeva, South Africa
13. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Earthshot Prize 2023
announced in November 2023?
A) Prince of Wales, William announced the five winners of the 3rd edition of the Earthshot
Prize.
B) Among the five winners, Indian solar-powered tech venture Science for Society Techno
Services Private Limited (S4S Technologies) won the Earthshot Prize 2023 under the ‘Build A
Waste-Free World’ category.
C) Boomitra, founded by an Indian-American, Aadith Moorthy won the Earthshot Prize 2023
under the ‘Fix Our Climate’ category.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Indian solar-powered tech venture Science for Society Techno Services Private Limited (S4S
Technologies) and a global soil carbon marketplace ‘Boomitra’ founded by an Indian-American are
two among the five winners of 2023 Earthshot Prize (3rd Edition).
i. The winners’ list was announced by William, Prince of Wales, at the awards ceremony which was
held in Singapore.
Winners Category Country
Acción Andina Protect and Restore Nature The Andes Mountains, South America
GRST Clean Our Air Hong Kong, China
WildAid Marine Program Revive Our Oceans Global
S4S Technologies Build A Waste-Free World India
Boomitra Fix Our Climate Global
14. In November 2023, _____________ _ became the first athlete to receive the Council of Fashion
Designers of America’s (CFDA) Fashion Icon Award.
1) Sloane Stephens
2) Maria Sharapova
3) Serena Williams
4) Naomi Osaka
5) Simona Halep
Answer- 3) Serena Williams

Explanation:
On November 6, 2023, American tennis player Serena Williams received the Council of Fashion
Designers of America’s (CFDA) Fashion Icon Award in 2023. With this, she became the first athlete
to receive this award.
• She received the award from American socialite Kim Kardashian (the recipient of 2022 CFDA
Fashion icon award) .
• The award was presented at the ceremony held at the American Museum of Natural History in
New York, United States of America (USA).
• Amazon Fashion is the Presenting Partner for the CFDA Fashion Awards.
Note- The Council of Fashion Designers of America has been celebrating the top talent in fashion
design with the CFDA Awards since 1980. The event is considered the fashion industry’s equivalent of
the Oscars.
15. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Eco Warrior Awards 2023,
India’s first ever dedicated award show for Indian Forest Service Officers, presented in
November 2023?
A) The Eco Warrior Awards 2023 were distributed by the Union Minister of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav to honour exceptional individuals and initiatives
that have made significant contributions to environmental conservation & sustainable
practices.
B) The Eco Warrior Awards 2023 was organised jointly by Indian Masterminds and Indian
Forest Service Association.
C) The award was divided into 5 categories, including Wildlife Conservation. Dr. Mohan Ram
won the award under Wildlife Conservation for his work in wildlife conservation in Gir Forest,
Gujarat.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
India’s first ever dedicated award show for Indian Forest Service Officers, the Eco Warrior Awards
2023, was held in New Delhi, Delhi to honour exceptional individuals and initiatives that have made
significant contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
i. The awards were distributed by the Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
ii. Eco Warrior Awards 2023 was organised jointly by Indian Masterminds and Indian Forest
Service Association, and the awards were sponsored by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
(HPCL) – a Maharatna company in oil and gas sector; Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL –
Maharatna); and Okinawa – Ye E Sahi Hai.
iii. The awards were given in the following 5 categories:
• Wildlife Conservation: Dr. Mohan Ram for his work in wildlife conservation in Gir Forest,
Gujarat

• Wildlife Protection: Ritesh Sarothiya, Regional Deputy Director, Northern Region (NR), Wildlife
Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Headquarters, MoEF&CC, Delhi
• Forest Protection: Vasu Kanojia, DFO, North Seoni, Madhya Pradesh (MP).
• Best Use of Technology for Conservation: Biswajit Mishra, currently serving as Chief
Conservator of Forest (CCF), (CTI), in Bengaluru
• Award for Community Connect: Millo Tassar, Conservator of Forests in Arunachal Pradesh.
16. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the 19th edition of the ‘Kalakar
Puraskar‘ award.
1) Apolinaris D’Souza
2) Sreelekha Mitra
3) Goutam Ghose
4) Tapas Paul
5) Aparna Sen
Answer- 1) Apolinaris D’Souza
Explanation:
Apolinaris D’Souza, a prominent Konkani singer, lyricist, and composer, was honored with the 19th
edition of the ‘Kalakar Puraskar‘ award in appreciation of his immense contributions to the field of
music for over 5 decades.
• The award was presented by Mandd Sobhann, in association with ‘Carval Ghorane’.
• The award was presented during the 263rd Monthly Theatre at Kalaangann, Shakthinagar,
Karnataka.
i. Apolinaris D’Souza has made immense contributions to Konkani music in Oman and in Mangaluru,
Karnataka.
• The ‘Kalakar Puraskar’ award was institutionalised in 2004 by linguist Pratap Naik under the
name of his Carvalho (Carval) family.
ii.It is presented every year to a Konkani individual of the Karnataka region in recognition of his/her
achievements in the field of music, dance, drama, or folklore.
17. Which of the following personalities has recently (in Nov ‘23) inducted into the
International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Hall of Fame for the year 2023?
1) Aravinda de Silva (Sri Lanka)
2) Virender Sehwag (India)
3) Diana Fram Edulji (India)
4) Both 1 & 2
5) All 1, 2 & 3
Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag and former Indian women’s cricket team captain Diana
Fram Edulji , along with Sri Lanka’s Aravinda de Silva, were inducted into the International Cricket
Council’s (ICC) Hall of Fame for the year 2023.
i. Diana Fram Edulji is the first Indian woman cricketer inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame.
ii. The three legends are to be presented with a commemorative ICC Cricket Hall of Fame cap during
the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai (Maharashtra) on 15th
November 2023.

• Virender Sehwag was the recipient of the Padma Shri (2010) in the sports category and the
Arjuna Award (2002).
• Diana Edulji was the recipient of the PadmaShri(2002) in the sports category and Arjuna
Award(1983).
• Sri Lankan right-hand batsman Pinnaduwage Aravinda de Silva was part of the Sri Lankan
cricket team that won their first ICC Men’s Cricket ODI World Cup in 1996, which was hosted
by India and Pakistan.
18. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) received the first-ever “Lifetime Disturbing the Peace
Award”?
1) Vikram Seth
2) Salman Rushdie
3) Kiran Desai
4) Aravind Adiga
5) Rohinton Mistry
Answer- 2) Salman Rushdie
Explanation:
Indian-born British-American author Salman Rushdie received the first-ever “Lifetime Disturbing
the Peace Award” presented by the Vaclav Havel Center in Manhattan, New York, United States of
America (USA).
i. He has authored many novels and book of stories including Midnight’s Children which was awarded
the Booker Prize in 1981.
ii. In 2008, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to literature.
19. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Federation of Indian
Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Healthcare Excellence Awards presented in
November 2023?
A) The 15th Edition of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)
Healthcare Excellence Awards was held in New Delhi, Delhi.
B) Dr. Yash Paul Bhatia, Chairman & Managing Director, Astron Groups won the FICCI
Healthcare Excellence Awards 2023 List (Individuals Awards) under Lifetime Achievement in
Healthcare Industry Category.
C) Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) won the FICCI HealthCare Awards 2023 – Excellence
in Patient Safety & Care under Private Hospitals Sub-Category.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
The 15th Edition of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Healthcare
Excellence Awards was held in New Delhi, Delhi. List of Awards and Recipients.
i. The award is given to recognize and felicitate organizations and individuals for their outstanding
contributions to the Indian healthcare sector.

ii. Dr. Yash Paul Bhatia, Chairman & Managing Director, Astron Groups won the FICCI Healthcare
Excellence Awards 2023 List (Individuals Awards) under Lifetime Achievement in Healthcare
Industry Category.
iii. Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) won the FICCI HealthCare Awards 2023 – Excellence in
Patient Safety & Care under Private Hospitals Sub-Category.
20. Which NGO/Foundation has been recently (in Nov ‘23) awarded with the 2023 Olympic Cup
by the International Olympic Committee (IOC)?
1) Welthungerhilfe
2) Save the Children Fund
3) International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
4) International Rescue Foundation
5) Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation
Answer- 5) Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation
Explanation:
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) awarded the 2023 Olympic Cup to the Taekwondo
Humanitarian Foundation (THF) in recognition of its long-term commitment to empowering refugee
athletes and refugees worldwide through taekwondo.
• Thomas Bach, IOC President, presented the Olympic Cup to World Taekwondo President
Chungwon Choue in a ceremony at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland.
• The unique Olympic Cup award was created by the IOC’s founder Pierre de Coubertin in 1906.
The Olympic Cup honors an organisation that promotes the ideals of the Olympic Movement.
i. About the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation(THF):
• The Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation(THF) was founded by World Taekwondo President
Chungwon Choue at the United Nations headquarters in New York(United States) in 2015.
• THF aims to empower refugees worldwide through taekwondo and helping them to improve
their quality of life, develop their life skills, learn Olympic values, and pursue their dreams.
• THF is also one of the implementing partners of Terrains d’Avenir, a programme co-financed
by the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF) and the French Sports Ministry.
21. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) named for the ‘Gansamragini Lata Mangeshkar Award’
for the year 2023 by the Government of Maharashtra?
1) Sadhana Sargam
2) Ananya Wadkar
3) Anuradha Paudwal
4) Suresh Ishwar Wadkar
5) Kavita Krishnamurthy
Answer- 4) Suresh Ishwar Wadkar
Explanation:
Government of Maharashtra honoured veteran playback singer and Padma Shri awardee Suresh
Ishwar Wadkar with prestigious ‘Gansamragini Lata Mangeshkar Award’ also known as Lata
Mangeshkar Award for the year 2023.
• The Lata Mangeshkar Award is an annual award given by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs of
the Maharashtra Government in memory of the legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar.
• Suresh Wadkar was honoured with the Padma Shri for his work in the field of arts in 2020.

• He was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2018 for Sugam Sangeet.
• He won a National Award in 2010 for the Best Male Playback Singer category for the song ‘Hey
Bhaskara’ for the Marathi biopic Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (2010).
22. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Asian Power Magazine, as
of November 2023?
A) Asian Power Magazine presented The 19th Asian Power Awards, 3rd Asian Oil & Gas
Awards, and inaugural Asian Water Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in November 2023.
B) GAIL India Limited won the ‘Innovation Award – India’ and also won ‘Midstream Project of
the Year – India’ under the Asian Oil & Gas Awards.
C) Kirloskar Brothers Limited won the Community-Based Water Project of the Year – India
under the Asian Water Awards.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
Asian Power Magazine presented the 19th Asian Power Awards, 3rd Asian Oil & Gas Awards, and
inaugural Asian Water Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in November 2023. List of Indian Winners
at Asian Oil & Gas Awards, Asian Power Awards, and Asian Water Awards.
i. GAIL India Limited won the ‘Innovation Award – India’ for reduction in LNG Shipping cost &
emissions through Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfer of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) with backhauling.
• It also won ‘Midstream Project of the Year – India’ for the installation of the first floating
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) station at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (UP).These awards are
presented under the Asian Oil & Gas Awards.
ii. Kirloskar Brothers Limited won the Community-Based Water Project of the Year – India under
the Asian Water Awards.
iii. Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd. (AEML) won the Power Utility of the Year for Transmission and
Distribution under the Asian Power Awards.
23. In November 2023, Indian economist & Padma Shri awardee _________ and David Barkin from
__________ (country) won the 2023 Kenneth E. Boulding Memorial Award for Ecological
Economics.
1) Bina Agarwal; Canada
2) Shaibal Gupta; Brazil
3) Bina Agarwal; Mexico
4) Shaibal Gupta; Canada
5) Amiya Kumar Bagchi; Mexico
Answer- 3) Bina Agarwal; Mexico
Explanation:
The International Society for Ecological Economics (ISEE) honoured Indian economist & Padma Shri
awardee Bina Agarwal with the 2023 Kenneth E. Boulding Memorial Award for Ecological
Economics.

• Bina Agarwal is a Professor of Development Economics and Environment at the University of

Manchester in Manchester, United Kingdom(UK).
• Along with Bina Agarwal, David Barkin, a professor at the Metropolitan University in Mexico
City was declared as the joint recipient of the 2023 award.
• The award was presented during the IESS’s 2023 Biennial Conference in Santa Marta, Colombia
held from 23 to 28 October 2023.
• Kenneth Boulding Award recognises individuals who embody the exceptional qualities of
Kenneth E. Boulding(American economist and educator), aiming to preserve and perpetuate
the wisdom he imparted to ISEE members and beyond.
Note- Bina Agarwal received the Padma Shri, for her work in the field of Literature and Education in
2008.
24. In November 2023, __________ became the First Woman to win the Dhahan Prize for Punjabi
Literature.
1) Dalip Kaur Tiwana
2) Veena Verma
3) Ajeet Cour
4) Sukhwinder Amrit
5) Deepti Babuta
Answer- 5) Deepti Babuta
Explanation:
Punjabi-author Deepti Babuta won the Dhahan Prize for Punjabi Literature 2023 for her Short
stories collection titled “Bhukh Eon Sah Laindi Hai (‘Hunger Breathes Like This’). She became the
first woman to win The Dhahan Prize. The award carries a cash prize of CAD 25,000.
i. The awards were presented during the 10th annual Dhahan Prize for Punjabi Literature ceremonies,
held on 16th November 2023, at Northview Golf and Country Club in Surrey, Canada.
ii. The Dhahan Prize is the largest international literary award for fiction books in the Punjabi
language. It was conceptualised in 2013 by the Canada-India Education Society (CIES) and the
University of British Columbia (UBC).
25. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) crowned with the Miss Universe at the 72nd Miss Universe
Beauty Pageant 2023 held in San Salvador, Republic of El Salvador?
1) Moraya Wilson (Australia)
2) Sheynnis Alondra Palacios Cornejo (Nicaragua)
3) Anntonia Porsild (Thailand)
4) Shweta Sharda (India)
5) R’Bonney Gabriel (United States of America)
Answer- 2) Sheynnis Alondra Palacios Cornejo (Nicaragua)
Explanation:
Miss Sheynnis Alondra Palacios Cornejo (23) from Nicaragua was crowned Miss Universe at the
72nd Miss Universe Beauty Pageant 2023 in San Salvador, Republic of El Salvador. She is the first
woman from Nicaragua to win the Miss Universe crown.
• She was crowned by the United States’ (US) R’Bonney Gabriel, who held the title of Miss
Universe for 2022. The first runner-up was Miss Anntonia Porsild of Thailand, and the second
runner-up was Miss Moraya Wilson of Australia.

• Miss India Shweta Sharda made it to the top 20 but didn’t reach the top 10 (evening gown
round).
• Three Indians have won the Miss Universe crown, Sushmita Sen in 1994, Lara Dutta in 2000
and Harnaz Sandhu in 2021.
Note- The next Miss Universe, the 73rd edition, will be held in Mexico.
26. Which of the following associations has been recently (in Nov ‘23) awarded with the Indira
Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development 2022?
1) Indian Medical Association
2) Trained Nurses Association of India
3) National Integrated Medical Association
4) Both 1 & 2
5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
On November 19, 2023, the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development 2022
was jointly awarded to the New Delhi, Delhi headquartered Indian Medical Association (IMA) and
the New Delhi based Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) as representatives of the COVID-19
warriors in India.
• The award for the same was presented to Dr. Sharad Kumar Agarwal, President, IMA, and
Professor (Dr.) Roy K. George, President, TNAI by Former Vice-President Hamid Ansari.
• This award acknowledges every doctor, nurse, paramedic and karamchari for their selfless
service during challenging times.
Note- Indira Gandhi Peace Prize established in 1986 by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, it is given
annually to recognize individuals or organizations contributing to international peace, disarmament,
and development.
27. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 51st International
Emmy® Awards (2023) presented by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
in November 2023?
A) Indian Comedian & actor Vir Das won the Emmy Award under the Comedy category for his
show “Vir Das: Landing” and became the first Indian Comedian to win the Emmy Award.
B) Ektaa R. Kapoor, Co-Founder of Balaji Telefilms was honoured with the International Emmy
Directorate Award for her contribution to the world of arts and entertainment.
C) British Screenwriter and producer Jesse Armstrong, Chairman and CEO of HBO and Max
Content was honoured with the 2023 International Emmy Founders Award.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C

Explanation:
On 20th November 2023, The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the
winners of the 51st International Emmy® Awards (2023) in New York City, United States of America
(USA).
i. Indian Comedian and actor Vir Das won the Emmy under the Comedy category for his Netflix stand-
up special show “Vir Das: Landing”.
• Vir Das shared the Emmy for Comedy with “Derry Girls – Season 3”, a United Kingdom(UK)
origin web series produced by Hat Trick Productions. With this, he became the first Indian
Comedian to win the Emmy Award.
ii. Ektaa R. Kapoor, Co-Founder of Balaji Telefilms was honoured with the International Emmy
Directorate Award for her contribution to the world of arts and entertainment.
• Ektaa R Kapoor received the award from Author and new age leader Dr Deepak Chopra. She
became the first Indian Woman Filmmaker to win the Directorate Award.
iii. British Screenwriter and producer Jesse Armstrong, Chairman and CEO of HBO and Max Content
was honoured with the 2023 International Emmy Founders Award.
• He is the creator of the television drama ‘Succession’ and the co-creator of the Channel 4
comedy series Peep Show, Fresh Meat, and Babylon.
Note- A total of 15 Emmy and 2 Special Awards (Founders Award & Directorate Award) were
presented during the event.
28. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) received National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA) Implementation and Advanced Concepts Team (IMPACT) Planet Award 2023?
1) Vinay Kumar Sankarapu
2) Niraj Lunavat
3) Binny Bansal
4) Kunal Bahl
5) Sujit Roy
Answer- 5) Sujit Roy
Explanation:
Sujit Roy, Co-Founder of Noida(Uttar Pradesh) based BrainAlive Research Pvt. Ltd., was honoured
with National Aeronautics and Space Administration(NASA) Implementation and Advanced Concepts
Team (IMPACT) Planet Award 2023 for his outstanding contribution to the Geospatial artificial
intelligence (AI) Foundation Model project.
i. NASA and IBM Research collaborated to create NASA’s first open-source geospatial AI foundation
model for Earth observation data. Sujit Roy was part of NASA's research team.
ii. The HLS Geospatial Foundation Model (HLS Geospatial FM) in the application of AI for Earth
science has a wide range potential applications, including monitoring natural disasters and predicting
agriculture harvests.
iii. BrainAlive AI is an AI Engine that converts raw interaction data into real-time user engagement
insights using a data transformation approach.
29. Name the book that was originally written in Tamil as “Aalanda Patchi” by Perumal
Murugan, won the 2023 JCB Prize for Literature in November 2023.
1) Poonachi or the Story of a Goat
2) Seasons of the Palm

3) Fire Bird
4) I Named my Sister Silence
5) A Lonely Harvest
Answer- 3) Fire Bird
Explanation:
Fire Bird, originally written in Tamil as “Aalanda Patchi” by renowned Tamil Writer Perumal
Murugan won the 2023 JCB Prize for Literature. The book was translated into English by Janani
Kannan and was published by Penguin Random House India.
i. The book explores themes of displacement and the human desire for stability in a changing world.
ii. Fire Bird is the 5th translated work to win JCB Prize for Literature.
Note: Aalanda Patchi was first published in 2012 by Kalachuvadu Publications Pvt Ltd
30. Which of the following Indian personality is not featured on the 11th edition of the list of
BBC 100 Women 2023 released by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in November
2023?
1) Kartiki Gonsalves
2) Dia Mirza
3) Harmanpreet Kaur
4) Arati Kumar-Rao
5) Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo
Answer- 1) Kartiki Gonsalves
Explanation:
On November 21, 2023, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) released the 11th edition of the
list of BBC 100 Women 2023 which includes four Indian women viz. Actress Dia Mirza, Cricketer
Harmanpreet Kaur, Photographer Arati Kumar-Rao, and Tibetan Buddhist nun Jetsunma Tenzin
Palmo.
• It is a list of 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world for 2023.
• The list is organised into categories like Culture and Education; Entertainment and Sport;
Politics and Advocacy; and Science, Health, and Tech.
i. Harmanpreet Kaur and Dia Mirza are named under the Entertainment & Sport category while
Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo is acknowledged under the category of Culture and education.
ii. In 2023, for the first time, this BBC 100 Women list specifically highlights ‘Climate pioneers’ , a
group of women leading the battle against the climate crisis.
• The list features 28 Climate Pioneers from across the globe who are inspiring and leading their
communities to tackle the devastating impact of climate change. This includes Indian
photographer Arati Kumar-Rao.
31. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) received the “Best Employer for Policies in
Diversity & Inclusion” Award?
1) Vedanta Limited
2) Indian Oil Corporation Limited
3) National Aluminium Company Limited
4) REC Limited
5) Oil India Limited
Answer- 4) REC Limited

Explanation:
REC Limited (Formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) received the “Best Employer for
Policies in Diversity & Inclusion” Award.
i. It was awarded at the 4th Diversity & Inclusion Excellence Awards and Conclave 2023 organized by
the Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. REC was awarded for its commitment to creating a workplace that accommodates differences,
fosters innovation, and promotes equal opportunities for all employees.
32. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the National Metallurgist Award (NMA) 2022 under the
Lifetime Achievement Award?
1) Dipankar Banerjee
2) Arun Kumar Biswas
3) Kamachi Mudali Uthandi
4) Srikumar Banerjee
5) Ramachandra Anantharaman
Answer- 3) Kamachi Mudali Uthandi
Explanation:
On 22 November 2023, the Ministry of Steel presented the National Metallurgist Award (NMA) 2022
to recognise the excellence and contribution of Metallurgists in the Iron & Steel Sector during the NMA
2022 ceremony.
• The NMA 2022 awards were conferred to 5 distinguished metallurgists in 4 categories.
Category Winner Cash Prize
Lifetime Achievement Award Dr Kamachi Mudali Uthandi Nil
National Metallurgist Award Dr Debashish Bhattacharjee Nil
Award for R&D in Iron and Steel Sector Dr Rameshwar Sah Rs 1 Lakh
Young Metallurgist Award Dr Niloy Kundu Rs 1 Lakh

(Metal Science)
Agilan Muthumanickam Rs 1 Lakh

(Environment)
33. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the 2023 Booker Prize for the
novel, ‘Prophet Song’.
1) Sarah Gilmartin
2) Naoise Dolan
3) Paul Lynch
4) Kathleen McMahon
5) Colin Walsh
Answer- 3) Paul Lynch

Explanation:
On November 26, 2023, Irish author Paul Lynch won 2023 Booker Prize for his novel, ‘Prophet
Song’ published by Oneworld. He was awarded by Shehan Karunatilaka, the 2022 winner, during a
ceremony held at Old Billingsgate, London in the United Kingdom (UK).
• He received 50,000 Pound sterling and the Iris Trophy for his award winning novel.
• In 2022, Shehan Karunatilaka won for ‘The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida’, set during the Sri
Lankan civil war.
i. The Booker Prize is awarded to the best novel of fiction by writers of any nationality, written in
English and published in the UK or Ireland. It was first awarded in 1969.
ii. The Booker Prize Foundation has decided the name of the trophy as ‘Iris’ – after Iris Murdoch
(Winner of The Booker Prize 1978 for The Sea, the Sea). The trophy is Jan Pieńkowski’s original
statuette.
34. Which word has been selected as Word of the Year 2023 by the Merriam-Webster in
November 2023?
1) AI
2) Authentic
3) Deepfake
4) X
5) Doppelgänger
Answer- 2) Authentic
Explanation:
United States of America (USA) dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster announced that the Word of
the Year for 2023 is “Authentic”. According to Merriam-Webster, Authentic is defined as “not false
or imitation” and “true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character”.
i. The searches for the word ‘Authentic’ on Merriam-webster.com increased in 2023, because of
stories and conversations about Artificial intelligence (AI), celebrity culture, identity, and social
media.
Note- ‘Authentic’ as Identity: The word is often connected to national as well as personal identity.
35. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) named for the 2023 United Nations High Commissioner for
Refugees (UNHCR) Nansen Refugee Award?
1) Azizbek Ashurov (Kyrgyzstan)
2) Abdullahi Mire (Somalia)
3) Angela Merkel (Germany)
4) Zannah Mustapha (Nigeria)
5) Aqeela Asifi (Afghanistan)
Answer- 2) Abdullahi Mire (Somalia)
Explanation:
Abdullahi Mire, a former refugee from Somalia has been named the 2023 United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Nansen Refugee Award’s Global Laureate for championing
the right to education while putting 100,000 books in the hands of displaced children and youth in
Kenya.
i. The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland on 13 December 2023 at the
Global Refugee Forum 2023, which will take place from 13 to 15 December 2023.

• The Somali born grew up in the Dadaab refugee camps in Kenya.

ii. The 2023 Regional Winners of the UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award have also been named,
recognising their outstanding work with refugees, internally displaced, and stateless people.
• Elizabeth Moreno Barco from Colombia(Americas)
• Asia Al-Mashreqi from Yemen (Middle East & North Africa)
• Abdullah Habib, Sahat Zia Hero, Salim Khan and Shahida Win (Asia-Pacific): four Rohingya
storytellers documenting the experiences of stateless Rohingya refugees
• Lena Grochowska and Władysław Grochowski from Poland (Europe)
SUMMITS, CONFERENCES
1. Which of the following points is “Incorrect” with respect to the India Mobile Congress (IMC
2023) held in October 2023?
A) The Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th Edition of IMC 2023, Asia’s
largest telecom, media, and technology forum in New Delhi, Delhi with the theme of ‘New
Digital Universe’.
B) Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (Reliance Jio) launched India’s first satellite-based gigabit
broadband service “JioSpaceFiber” during IMC 2023
C) Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises and founder of Bharti Airtel, announced
a significant breakthrough in satellite communication at IMC 2023.
1) Only A
2) Only B
3) Only C
4) Only A & B
5) Only B & C
Answer- 1) Only A
Explanation:
The 7th Edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC 2023), Asia’s largest telecom, media, and technology
forum, was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Delhi, from 27th to 29th October 2023.
• The theme of the IMC 2023 was ‘Global Digital Innovation’.
• The congress was inaugurated by Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi on 27th October 2023.
• IMC 2023 introduces ‘Aspire,’ a startup program fostering connections between startups,
investors, and established businesses.
• This aims to catalyze entrepreneurial initiatives and collaborations.
• During IMC 2023 PM Modi awarded 100 ‘5G Use Case Labs’ to educational institutions across
India. The institutions will get 5G Use Case Labs as part of the initiative of the Department of
Telecommunication (DoT), Ministry of Communications.
• Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (Reliance Jio) launched India’s first satellite-based gigabit
broadband service “JioSpaceFiber” during IMC 2023. This aims to provide high-speed internet
access to previously unreachable areas in India.
• Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises and founder of Bharti Airtel, announced a
significant breakthrough in satellite communication at IMC 2023. He revealed that OneWeb
Satellite communication service is ready to connect all parts of India from next month. The
service promises to provide connectivity to even remote and difficult-to-reach areas.

• At India Mobile Congress 2023, HFCL Limited unveiled a suite of next-gen connectivity
products and solutions, including 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Customer Premise
Equipment (CPE), IP MPLS Routers, 2 Gbps Unlicensed Band Radio, and the 1728-high fiber
count IBR Optical Fiber Cable.
2. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Global Conference on
Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) held at New Delhi, Delhi from 30th October to
1st November 2023?
A) Union Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the 2nd Global Conference on
Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) with the theme of ‘Artificial intelligence and
wisdom of the heart: for a fully human communication’.
B) The conference was organised by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), under
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in consultation with World Customs
Organisation (WCO), Brussels in Belgium.
C) The WCO has collaborated with Indian Customs to ensure wide participation by Member
Administrations and international organisations, including WCO’s Regional Intelligence
Liaison Offices (RILOs) and senior representations from the WCO Secretariat.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The first Global Conference on Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) was held in New Delhi,
Delhi from 30th October to 1st November 2023. The conference was inaugurated by Union Minister
Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance (MoF). The theme of 1st GCCEM was ‘It takes a Network to
fight a Network’.
• The conference was organised by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), under Central
Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in consultation with World Customs Organisation
(WCO), Brussels in Belgium.
• The WCO has collaborated with Indian Customs to ensure wide participation by Member
Administrations and international organisations, including WCO’s Regional Intelligence Liaison
Offices (RILOs) and senior representations from the WCO Secretariat.
3. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the world’s 1st global Artificial
Intelligence (AI) Safety Summit held in November 2023?
A) The United Kingdom (UK) Government hosted the world’s 1st global AI Safety Summit at
Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire (UK) on November 1-2, 2023
B) Delegates from 28 nations, including India, have signed the world’s 1st agreement known as
the “Bletchley Declaration,” during the ‘AI Safety Summit 2023’ and pledged to cooperate, to
promote the safe use of AI tools.
C) During the summit, UK Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak launched the world’s 1st AI Safety
Institute in the UK to examine, evaluate, and test new types of AI.
1) All A, B & C

2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
The United Kingdom (UK) Government hosted the world’s 1st global Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Safety Summit at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire (UK) on November 1-2, 2023. This 2-day summit
brought together Ministers and representatives from various countries, including the UK, the United
States of America (USA), India, among others.
• This summit aimed to unite world leaders and prominent tech industry giants focussed on
devising a comprehensive, collaborative strategy to mitigate risks and combat the misuse of AI
technologies.
• The Summit also witnessed the signing of the Bletchley Declaration by 28 countries and the
launching of the world’s 1st AI Safety Institute.
• Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Union Minister of State(MoS), Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship(MSDE), and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY),
Government of India addressed the inaugural plenary session of the ‘AI Safety Summit 2023’.
• Delegates from 28 nations, including India, the USA, China, and the European Union have
signed the world’s 1st agreement known as the “Bletchley Declaration,” during the ‘AI Safety
Summit 2023’ and pledged to cooperate, to promote the safe use of AI tools.
• With the agreement, the 28 countries agreed to work together to address the potentially
“catastrophic” risks presented by rapid advances in AI.
• The declaration was named after the venue, Bletchley Park, where the AI Safety Summit
was held in the UK.
• During the AI Safety Summit 2023, UK Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak launched the world’s
1st AI Safety Institute in the UK to examine, evaluate, and test new types of AI. The launch
represents the UK’s commitment to the global initiative on AI safety testing.
4. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Assembly of the
International Solar Alliance (ISA) held in October/November 2023?
A) India hosted the 6th Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at Bharat Mandapam,
in New Delhi, Delhi.
B) The ISA announced that the Global Solar Facility (GSF) to stimulate investments into solar
power projects, is set to receive a capital contribution of USD 35 million.
C) Peru has officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 97th member.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
On 31st October 2023, India hosted the 6th Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at
Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi, Delhi. Union Minister Raj Kumar Singh (RK Singh) , Ministry of

Power (MOP) and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy(MNRE), President of ISA, presided over the
6th Assembly of ISA.
• Participants: Ministers from 20 countries and delegates from across 116 countries and
signatory countries participated in the Assembly
• While addressing the Assembly, R.K. Singh emphasized the importance of Renewable Energy as
a future source of energy by underlining the fact that:
• Around 80% of the global population which comprises about 6 billion people resides in
countries that depend on fossil fuel imports.
• Renewable energy sources have the potential to supply 65% of the world’s total
electricity by 2030.
• Renewable energy sources can decarbonise 90% of the power sector by 2050.
• During the 6th Assembly, ISA released 3 flagship reports to provide insights into the current
state of solar energy, providing updates on Solar Technology, Solar Market and Solar
Investments.
• The ISA announced that the Global Solar Facility (GSF), a payment guarantee fund formed by
ISA to stimulate investments into solar power projects, is set to receive a capital contribution
of USD 35 million.
• The Government of India (GoI) is considering a USD 25 million investment as a capital
contribution in the GSF in addition to USD 10 million from ISA.
• The 6th Assembly of ISA has decided to increase the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for solar
projects across its member countries to 35% from the existing 10%. These projects will mostly
focus on the underdeveloped and developing nations of Africa and South America.
• Chile has officially joined the ISA as its 95th member. Chile Ambassador Juan Angulo handed
over the Instrument of ISA ratification to Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary (Economic
Diplomacy) in the Ministry of External Affairs. This marks a significant move that bolsters the
global effort to advance solar energy.
5. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 7th edition of Bengal Global
Business Summit held at Kolkata in November 2023?
A) During the summit, Mamta Bannerjee, CM of West Bengal announced that West Bengal
attracted investment worth Rs3.76 Lakh crore which includes signing of 188 MoUs and Letter
of Intent (LoI) in different sectors.
B) Reliance Industries Limited announced plans to invest Rs20000 crore in next three years in
West Bengal.
C) World Trade Centre (WTC)-NDITA (Nabadiganta Industrial Township Authority) has signed
a MoU with the World Trade Centres of Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi and Noida at the
Urban Infrastructure Session in Summit.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A

Explanation:
The Government of West Bengal organized the 7th edition of Bengal Global Business Summit which
was held from November21 to 22, 2023 in Kolkata, West Bengal.
• The summit aimed to bring together business leaders, academia, entrepreneurs and think
tanks across the globe with the objective of making strategic and business alliances about the
industrial ecosystem and business friendly initiatives of state.
• Key Participants: The Summit hosted business leaders from more than 25 countries. The
participating countries include The U.S., U.K., Japan, France, Australia and Germany to name a
few.
i. During the 7th edition of Bengal Global Business summit, Mamta Bannerjee (Chief Minister, West
Bengal) announced that West Bengal attracted investment worth Rs3.76 Lakh crore which includes
signing of 188 MoUs and Letter of Intent (LoI) in different sectors.
ii. While addressing the summit, Mukesh Ambani (Chairman and Managing Director, Reliance
Industries Limited) announced that his company plans to invest Rs20000 crore in next three years in
West Bengal. Earlier, the Reliance Company invested about Rs45000 crores in West Bengal.
iii. World Trade Centre (WTC)-NDITA (Nabadiganta Industrial Township Authority) has signed
a MoU with the World Trade Centres of Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi and Noida at the Urban
Infrastructure Session at Biswabanga Mela Program of Bengal Global Business Summit 2023 in
Kolkata, West Bengal.
COMMITTEE AND MEETING

1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 1st Australia India
Education and Skill Council (AIESC) meeting held in November 2023?
A) Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education and Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship co-chaired the 1st Australia India Education and Skill Council (AIESC)
meeting with Australian Ministers- Jason Clare, Education Minister and Brendan O’Connor,
Skills & Training Minister.
B) During the 1st AIESC meeting, 5 MoUs were exchanged between Indian and Australian
Higher education institutions (HEIs) to facilitate greater research collaborations.
C) Both country Ministers announced the opening of two Australian Universities campuses of
Wollongong and Deakin University in GIFT City, Gandhinagar (Gujarat).
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education(MoE) and Ministry of Skill Development
and Entrepreneurship(MSDE) co-chaired the 1st Australia India Education and Skill Council (AIESC)
meeting with Australian Ministers- Jason Clare, Education Minister and Brendan O’Connor, Skills &
Training Minister.

• The meeting was held at the Indian Institutes of Technology(IIT) Gandhinagar in Gujarat on 6th
November 2023.
• During the 1st AIESC meeting, 5 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged
between Indian and Australian Higher education institutions (HEIs) to facilitate greater
research collaborations in areas like Agriculture, Water Management, Critical Minerals,
Healthcare, AI, Renewable Energy and Climate Change.
• Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met Australian Education Minister Jason Clare
and both countries agreed to increase research collaborations in priority areas including mines
and minerals and critical minerals.
• Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Australian Education Minister Jason Clare
announced the opening of two Australian Universities campuses of Wollongong and Deakin
University in GIFT City(Gujarat International Finance Tec-City), Gandhinagar (Gujarat).
INDEX
1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI)’s 5th edition of State Food Safety Index (SFSI 2022-2023) released by
Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in November 2023?
A) With the inclusion of a new parameter (Improvement in SFSI Rank) in the 2023 index, 19
out of 20 large states recorded a drop in their 2023 scores from 2019.
B) 15 out of 20 states recorded lower SFSI scores in 2022-2023 compared to 2019.
C) Uttar Pradesh has recorded the steepest fall in SFSI Score, from 74 out of 100 in 2019 to 45
in 2023, followed by Bihar.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
According to the 5th edition of State Food Safety Index(SFSI 2022-2023) by Food Safety and
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), with the inclusion of a new parameter (Improvement in SFSI
Rank) in the 2023 index, 19 out of 20 large states recorded a drop in their 2023 scores from 2019.
• The index was released by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on World Food Safety
Day 2023 (June 7 2023).
• Adjusting for the new parameter, 15 out of 20 states recorded lower SFSI scores in 2022-
2023 compared to 2019.
• Maharashtra has recorded the steepest fall in SFSI Score, from 74 out of 100 in 2019 to 45 in
2023, followed by Bihar(from 46 in 2019 to 20.5 in 2023), and Gujarat (from 73 in 2019 to 48.5
in 2023).

2. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds)
World University Ranking: Asia 2024 released in November 2023?
A) India has showcasing 148 Indian universities in 2023 ranking and holds the highest
representation in Asia’s higher education system, surpassing China (133) and Japan (96).
B) Peking University, Beijing, China has retained the 1st position in the QS Asia Ranking 2024.
C) Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) in Mumbai, Maharashtra grabbed the top spot
in India with 40th position in the Asia Ranking.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
On November 8, 2023, the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) World University Ranking: Asia 2024 was
released, showcasing 148 Indian universities which is 30 more than the last edition. With this, India
now holds the highest representation in Asia’s higher education system, surpassing China (133) and
Japan (96).
• India has 118 universities in 2023 ranking.
• This is the 16th edition of the QS World University Ranking in this category.
i. Peking University, Beijing, China has retained the 1st position in the QS Asia Ranking 2024, while,
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) in Mumbai, Maharashtra grabbed the top spot in India
with 40th position in the Asia Ranking.
3. As per the Inclusiveness Index published by the Othering and Belonging Institute (OBI) in
November 2023, India was ranked __________ out of 129 countries in the Index, while _________
(country) tops the Index for the second consecutive year.
1) 120th; Portugal
2) 117th; New Zealand
3) 120th; Netherlands
4) 117th; Portugal
5) 110th; New Zealand
Answer- 2) 117th; New Zealand
Explanation:
According to the Inclusiveness Index published by the Othering and Belonging Institute (OBI) at
California University, United States of America(USA), India was ranked 117th out of 129 countries
with an overall score of 49.24.
i. India was ranked 129th in religion inclusiveness, 121st in gender, 108th in disability, 87th in race,
40th in the general population, and 39th in LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or
questioning, Intersex, Asexual).
ii. The index was topped by New Zealand for the second consecutive year with an overall score of
82.08.
• It is followed by 2nd place Portugal (77.6), and the Netherlands (76.98) in 3rd place.

ACQUISITION AND MERGERS

1. In October 2023, Fincare Small Finance Bank (SFB) merged with __________ (SFB) in an All-
share Deal under Section 44A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
1) Suryoday SFB
2) AU SFB
3) Equitas SFB
4) Capital SFB
5) Utkarsh SFB
Answer- 2) AU SFB
Explanation:
The board of AU Small Finance Bank (SFB) Limited and Fincare Small Finance Bank (SFB) Limited
has approved an all-stock merger of AU SFB and Fincare SFB under Section 44A of the Banking
Regulation Act, 1949. .
• AU SFB will acquire Fincare SFB in an all-stock transaction valued at Rs 4,411 crore.
• This merger aims to expand the AU SFB’s reach in sourthern part of India and enter micro-
finance sector.
i. The merger is subject to approval by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Competition
Commission of India (CCI).
ii. The amalgamation will come into effect from 1st February, 2024 or such other date as may be fixed
mutually by the Transfer or Company and the Transferee Company and sanctioned by the RBI.
2. In October 2023, Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the minority
investment by India Business Excellence Fund (IBEF) – IV(Acquirer), a private equity fund of
Motilal Oswal Alternates (MO Alternates), in __________ (company).
1) IIFL Finance Limited
2) SK Finance Limited
3) Ceejay Finance Limited
4) Shriram Transport Finance Company Limited
Answer- 2) SK Finance Limited
Explanation:
Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the minority investment by India Business
Excellence Fund (IBEF) – IV(Acquirer), a private equity fund of Motilal Oswal Alternates (MO
Alternates), in SK Finance Limited (Target), a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) registered
with Reserve Bank of India(RBI).
• The investment will be in the form of a subscription to equity shares and the purchase of
outstanding equity shares of SK Finance from Rajendra Kumar Setia, the promoter of SK
Finance and Baring Private Equity India AIF. IBEF – IV is a Category II Alternative Investment
Fund(AIF) registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI).
• MO Alternates is a subsidiary of Motilal Oswal Financial Services Limited(MOFSL).

3. In November 2023, Zurich Insurance Company acquired a _________ stake in Kotak General
Insurance for Rs 4,051 crore.
1) 60%
2) 35%
3) 51%
4) 64%
5) 49%
Answer- 3) 51%
Explanation:
Kotak Mahindra Bank and Kotak Mahindra General Insurance Company have entered into definitive
agreements with Zurich Insurance Company Ltd, whereby Zurich will invest approximately Rs
4,051 crore to acquire a 51% stake in Kotak General Insurance.
i. Kotak General Insurance is valued at approximately Rs 8000 crore on a post money valuation. The
transaction is expected to be completed by June 30, 2024.
ii. It is the single largest investment by a global strategic insurer in an Indian non-life insurer.
4. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent approval by the
Competition Commission of India (CCI) in November 2023?
A) CCI has approved the acquisition of 49% shareholding of Bharti AXA Life Insurance
Company Limited (BALIC) by Bharti Life Ventures Private Limited (BLVPL) from AXA India
Holdings (AXA) taking its total shareholding in BALIC to 100% and acquisition of BALIC’s sole
control.
B) CCI has approved the acquisition of 40 shareholding of Bharti Realty Limited by Bharti
Enterprises Limited (BEL) from Societe Beaujon (a subsidiary of AXA) taking its total
shareholding in BMSL to 100% and acquisition of BMSL’s sole control.
C) CCI also approved the acquisition of 20.51% equity shares of Indo Rama Synthetics (India)
Limited (IRSL) by Aloke Lohia from Brookgrange Investment Limited and transfer of 20.51%
equity shares of IRSL to Urmila Lohia by Aloke Lohia.
1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Explanation:
On November 6, 2023, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the following
transactions:
Details of the Proposed Combination:
• Acquisition of 49% shareholding of Bharti AXA Life Insurance Company Limited (BALIC) by
Bharti Life Ventures Private Limited (BLVPL) from AXA India Holdings (AXA) taking its total
shareholding in BALIC to 100% and acquisition of BALIC’s sole control.
• Acquisition of 48.54% shareholding of Bharti Management Services Limited (BMSL) by Bharti
Enterprises Limited (BEL) from Societe Beaujon (a subsidiary of AXA) taking its total
shareholding in BMSL to 100% and acquisition of BMSL’s sole control.

• CCI has approved the acquisition of 20.51% equity shares of Indo Rama Synthetics (India)
Limited (IRSL) by Aloke Lohia from Brookgrange Investment Limited and transfer of 20.51%
equity shares of IRSL to Urmila Lohia by Aloke Lohia.
Note: Aloke Lohia and Urmila Lohia are the promoters of IRSL
5. As of November 2023, which bank is set to get 7.71% equity from Jaiprakash Associates
Limited (JAL) and associated trusts as Payment Obligation?
1) IndusInd Bank
2) Axis Bank
3) YES Bank
4) HDFC Bank
5) ICICI Bank
Answer- 5) ICICI Bank
Explanation:
Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) and associated trusts are set to transfer 7.71% equity or over
18.93 crore shares to ICICI Bank as part of a settlement agreement between the JAL and the bank,
amid loan repayment default.
i. The move is part of JAL’s efforts to reduce its debt with the bank. The 7.71% stake is worth Rs 366
crore at the current market price.
ii. The trust associated with JAL includes: Gujarat Anjan Cement Limited(GACL) Trust, Jaiprakash
Enterprises Limited(JEL) Trust, Jaypee Cement Limited(JCL) Trust, and Jaypee Hotels Limited (JHL)
Trust.
• JAL failed to repay a loan worth Rs 4,258 crore, comprising a principal sum of Rs 1,733 crore
and an interest of Rs 2,525 crore.
• These loans, involving fund-based working capital, non-fund-based working capital, term
loans, and FCCB (Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds), were owed to various banks.
6. In November 2023, Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of a

minority stake in __________ (company) by the Mirae Group Entities.
1) Bundl Technologies Private Limited
2) Gati Limited
3) Apollo LogiSolutions Limited
4) Shadowfax Technologies Private Limited
5) Zinka Logistics Solutions Private Limited
Answer- 4) Shadowfax Technologies Private Limited
Explanation:
Fair trade regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of a
minority stake in Shadowfax Technologies Private Limited (Target) by the Mirae Group Entities
(Acquirers).
i. Details of the proposed combination:
• Acquisition of a minority stake in Shadowfax Technologies by Mirae Asset Late Stage
Opportunities Fund (Mirae IV).
• Acquisition of a right to appoint a director on the board of Shadowfax Technologies by Mirae
Asset Naver New Growth Fund I (Mirae I), Mirae Asset– GS Retail New Growth Fund I (Mirae
II), Mirae Asset– Naver Asia Growth Investment Pte. Ltd (Mirae III) and Mirae IV.

7. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved Hinduja Group entity IndusInd
International Holdings Ltd (IIHL) to acquire __________ (company).
1) Reliance Capital
2) Reliance Home Finance
3) Reliance Infrastructure
4) Reliance Power
5) Reliance Communications
Answer- 1) Reliance Capital
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the resolution plan for debt-ridden Reliance Capital,
and enabled Hinduja Group entity IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL) to acquire Reliance
Capital.
• The Administrator of Reliance Capital received a “No objection” from the RBI on November 17,
2023.
• IIHL emerged as the highest bidder in the second round of the auction, offering Rs 9,650 crore
to take over Reliance Capital.
Note- Reliance Capital is the third non-banking financial company (NBFC) against which the RBI
initiated bankruptcy proceedings.
8. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has recently (in Nov ‘23) approved the
acquisition of _________ share capital of CaratLane Trading Private Limited (CaratLane) by Titan
Company Limited.
1) 20.19%
2) 24.39%
3) 36.23%
4) 40.21%
5) 27.18%
Answer- 5) 27.18%
Explanation:
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of 27.18% share capital of
CaratLane Trading Private Limited (CaratLane) by Titan Company Limited (Titan) on a fully
diluted basis, from Mithun Padam Sacheti, Siddhartha Padam Sacheti, and Padamchand Sacheti.
i. Titan has acquired 91.90 lakh equity shares in CaratLane for a cash consideration of Rs 4621 crore.
ii. This acquisition increased Titan’s stake in CaratLane to 98.28% from 71.09%.
iii. CaratLane is a subsidiary of Titan and has been in a strategic vendor relationship with Tanishq
since 2010. It was founded in 2008 by Mithun Sacheti.
9. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) received approval from the Competition
Commission of India (CCI) to acquire additional stake in Niva Bupa Health Insurance
Company?
1) Bupa Global International Holdings
2) Fortis Healthcare Ltd
3) Bupa Singapore Holdings
4) Max Healthcare Institute Ltd
5) Global Health Ltd

Answer- 3) Bupa Singapore Holdings

Explanation:
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of an additional stake in Niva
Bupa Health Insurance Company by Bupa Singapore Holdings. The Proposed transaction is
approved under the green channel route, adhering to Regulation 5A and Schedule III of CCI
(Procedure in regard to the transaction of business relating to combinations) Regulations, 2011.
• Acquirer- Bupa Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd. (Bupa Singapore)
• Target- Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited (Niva Bupa)
i. Following this acquisition, the shareholding of Bupa Singapore will increase to approximately 63%
equity stake in Niva Bupa.
10. In November 2023, Berkshire Hathaway Inc sold its entire 2.46% stake in _________
(company) for Rs.1,371 crore in a bulk deal on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
1) Paytm
2) PhonePe
3) Google Pay
4) PayZapp
5) Razorpay
Answer- 1) Paytm
Explanation:
Berkshire Hathaway Inc, an American diversified
multinational holding company led by Warren Buffett, sold
its entire 2.46% stake in One97 Communications, the
parent company of fin-tech company Paytm for Rs.1,371
crore in a bulk deal on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
i. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. through its affiliate company
BH International Holdings sold over 1.56 crore shares of
Paytm at a loss of about 31% per share, leading to a loss exceeding Rs.620 crore.
ii. The sale was made through an open market transaction and the shares were bought by Ghisallo
Master Fund and Copthall Mauritius Investment.
DEFENCE
1. Name the aircraft of Indian Navy (IN) that has recently (in Nov ‘23) decommissioned after 46
years of service to the nation at INS Hansa at Dabolim, Goa.
1) Ilyushin-46 Sea Dragon
2) MIG 29-K
3) Kamov-28 Sea Dragon
4) Ilyushin-38 Sea Dragon
5) Boeing P-8I
Answer- 4) Ilyushin-38 Sea Dragon

Explanation:
On 31st October 2023, Ilyushin (IL)-38 Sea Dragon (SD) long-range maritime patrol aircraft of the
Indian Navy(IN) was decommissioned after 46 years of service to the nation, at INS Hansa at Dabolim,
Goa.
• Indian Naval Air Squadrons (INAS) 315 was commissioned on 1st October 1977 with the
induction of IL-38 aircraft.
• The aircraft, IL-38 SD, was also featured in the 2023 Republic Day Flypast at New Delhi, Delhi.
• Two IL-38 SD aircraft will be stationed permanently at the National Maritime Heritage
Museum, Lothal, Gujarat and at Nipani in Karnataka.
i. On 31st October 2023, the Indian Air Force (IAF) phased out another Mig-21 fighter squadron, No.
4 squadron, known as ‘OORIALS’, based at Uttarlai, Rajasthan. The squadron will be re-equipping it
with Sukhoi-30 MKI (SU-30MKI) aircraft.
• No. 4 Squadron has been operating the MiG-21 since 1966.
2. Name the annual Command level exercise that has been recently (in Nov ‘23) conducted by
the Eastern Air Command (EAC) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) from October to November 2023.
1) Pitch Black
2) Siam Bharat
3) Pralay Shayam
4) Eastern Bridge
5) Poorvi Akash
Answer- 5) Poorvi Akash
Explanation:
The Shillong-headquartered Eastern Air Command (EAC) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted its
annual Command level exercise called Exercise Poorvi Akash from 30 October to 5 November
2023 to check its combat preparedness.
• The exercise was held in the northeastern region.
• The day and night exercise comprised the application of Air Power in all its roles.
• The exercise also comprises joint operations with the Eastern Command (EC) of the Indian
Army(IA).
i. The indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)
Prachand also participated in the exercise.
3. Name the country that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a contract with India to supply and
produce hand-held anti-aircraft missile Igla-S Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS).
1) France
3) Japan
4) Indonesia
5) Russia
Answer- 5) Russia
Explanation:
Russia has signed a contract to supply and produce hand-held anti-aircraft missile Igla-S Man-
Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS) to India.

• Igla-S is designed to counter low-flying aircraft and helicopters. It has a range of 500 meters to
6000 meters and can go upto the altitude ranging from 10meters to 3500 meters.
• It works on “fire-and-forget” principle and it is exported by Russian Defense Export agency
Rosoboronexport
4. In which city, the 9th edition of the joint military exercise of India and Sri Lanka, MITRA
SHAKTI-2023 was commenced on 16th November 2023?
1) Siliguri, West Bengal
2) Auli, Uttarakhand
4) Pune, Maharashtra
5) Umroi, Meghalaya
Answer- 4) Pune, Maharashtra
Explanation:
MITRA SHAKTI-2023, the 9th edition of the joint military exercise between the armed forces of
India and Sri Lanka, commenced on 16th November 2023 at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh,
Pune, Maharashtra. The 14-day exercise is set to conclude on 29 November 2023.
• The exercise will foster strong bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka.
• Indian Army: Contingent of 120 personnel from India, primarily representing the Maratha
Light Infantry Regiment. Sri Lankan Army: Personnel from the 53rd Infantry Division
• Additionally, 15 members from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 5 from the Sri Lankan Air Force
are also partaking in this joint exercise.
i. Objectives:
• To promote close relations between armies of both countries and enhance interoperability and
sharing of best practices in Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism (CI-CT) operations.
• To collectively practise sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations
(UN) Charter, focusing on coordinated responses during CT operations.
5. In which state, the 14th edition of the India – United States of America (USA) Joint Special
Forces exercise ‘Vajra Prahar 2023’ was commenced on 21st November 2023?
1) West Bengal
2) Uttarakhand
3) Gujarat
4) Maharashtra
5) Meghalaya
Explanation:
The 14th edition of the India – United States of America(USA) Joint Special Forces exercise, Vajra
Prahar 2023, commenced at the Joint Training Node in Umroi Cantonment, located in Ri Bhoi district
of the north eastern state of Meghalaya.
i. The 2023 edition is a 21-day (3-week) training program happening from 21st November 2023 to
11th December 2023.
ii. The Indian Army (IA) contingent is led by Special Forces personnel from the Eastern Command.
iii. The US contingent is being represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of US
Special Forces.

6. In November 2023, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) & the
Indian Navy (IN) successfully conducted the 2nd Flight test of Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short
Range (NASM-SR) from IN’s __________ Maritime Helicopter.
1) Sikorsky SH-3
2) Kamov Ka-25
3) Hawk Mk 132
4) Seaking 42B
5) Ilyushin Il-38
Answer- 4) Seaking 42B
Explanation:
On 21st November 2023, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in cooperation
with the Indian Navy (IN) successfully tested the indigenously designed & developed Guided Naval
Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range (NASM-SR) from IN’s Seaking 42B Maritime Helicopter.
• This marked the 2nd test of the missile, which was first tested at the Integrated Test Range
(ITR) in Balasore, Odisha on 18 May 2022, from an IN Seaking Mk42B helicopter.
• The test involved the firing of the missile from a Seaking 42B helicopter, showcasing its
precision guidance technology.
i. The NASM-SR is a helicopter-fired missile capable of destroying small boats or Offshore Patrol
Vessels (OPVs) at a maximum range of 55 kilometers while traveling at 0.8 Mach (slower than the
speed of sound).
ii. It is the first indigenous air-launched anti-ship missile system developed for the Indian Navy and is
India’s version of the Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile.
7. In November 2023, the Indian Armed Forces took part in the ___________ edition of the Joint
Military Exercise with Australian Army in “AUSTRAHIND-23,” held in Perth, Australia.
1) 4th
2) 6th
3) 3rd
4) 5th
5) 2nd
Answer- 5) 2nd
Explanation:
The Indian Armed Forces takes part in the 2nd edition of the Joint Military Exercise with Australian
Army in “AUSTRAHIND-23,” it is being held from November 22nd to December 6th, 2023, in Perth,
Australia.
• Exercise “AUSTRAHIND” is an annual exercise that will be held alternatively in India and
Australia. The 1st edition of the “AUSTRAHIND’ was held in 2022 in Mahajan Field Firing
Ranges (MFFR) in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
i. The Indian contingent includes 60 personnel from a Battalion of the Gorkha Rifles regiment of the
Indian Army, One officer from the Indian Navy(IN), and 20 personnel from the Indian Air Force(IAF).
ii. The Australian contingent includes 60 personnel from the 13th Brigade of the Australian Army, 20
personnel each from the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force.

8. The _________ Edition of Indo-Nepal joint training Exercise ‘Surya Kiran’ between India and
Nepal began at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand in November 2023.
1) 14th
2) 16th
3) 13th
4) 15th
5) 17th
Answer- 5) 17th
Explanation:
Surya Kiran XVII, the 17th Edition of the Indo-Nepal joint training Exercise began at Pithoragarh,
Uttarakhand. The exercise between Indian Army and Nepal Army will be conducted from 24th
November to 7th December 2023.
• Surya Kiran XVI, 16th edition of the exercise was held at Saljhandi, Nepal in December 2022.
• The Indian Army contingent of 354 personnel is led by a Battalion from the Kumaon Regiment.
• The Nepal Army contingent of 334 personnel is represented by Tara Dal Battalion.
9. In November 2023, the 9th edition of National Level Pollution Response Exercise,
‘NATPOLREX-IX’ was conducted by Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in ___________ (state).
1) Maharashtra
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Gujarat
4) West Bengal
5) Odisha
Answer- 3) Gujarat
Explanation:
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the 9th National Level Pollution Response Exercise
(NATPOLREX-IX) on 24-25 November 2023, off Vadinar coast, Gujarat, in accordance with National
Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP).
i. Aim: To assess the coordination and readiness of various agencies in responding to a marine oil
spill.
ii. DG Rakesh Pal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, and the Chairman of NOSDCP reviewed
the preparedness of all agencies during the exercise.
iii. Participants: Representatives of various ministries and departments of central and coastal state
governments, ports, oil handling agencies, and other stakeholders along with more than 31 foreign
observers and 80 delegates participated in the exercise.
iv. During the exercise, the ICG deployed surfaces as well as air platforms including Pollution
Response Vessels (PRVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Which country has recently (in Oct ‘23) approved the world’s first passenger-carrying flying
taxi “EHang 216-S”?
1) France
2) Japan
4) Germany
5) China
Answer- 5) China
Explanation:
Chinese drone startup EHang received the type certificate for Ehang 216-S (EH216-S), its electric
vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC),
the Chinese civil aviation authority under the Ministry of Transport.
• With this, EH216-S becomes the 1st eVTOL vehicle in the world to be cleared for commercial
use.
i. The EH216-S air taxis are electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft capable of carrying
two people or 600 pounds of cargo.
ii. They are propelled by 16 electric rotors and can fly at speeds of up to 80 miles per hour (mph) and
a distance of up to 18 miles.
2. In October 2023, the Mumbai Division of Central Railway commissioned the Block Proving
by Axle _________ (BPAC) system to enhance rail safety in the Vashind - Asangaon section of the
Thane district in Maharashtra.
1) Control
2) Centre
3) Commission
4) Corporation
5) Counter
Answer- 5) Counter
Explanation:
The Mumbai Division of Central Railway has commissioned the Block Proving by Axle Counter
(BPAC) system to enhance rail safety in the Vashind-Asangaon section of the Thane district in
Maharashtra.
i. BPAC system counts the number of axles of wheels of train coaches passed in a particular section.
Once it gives clearance for no leftover coaches, it allows another train to enter into that particular
section. Thus, it ensures 100% safety to avoid more than 1 number of trains in a particular section
between 2 stop signals.
ii. The BPAC system is poised to transform train control in the region by strengthening safety
measures and speeding up the clearance process for train operations.

3. In November 2023, Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced

that India is set to develop Israel’s Iron Dome system-like long-range surface-to-air missile
(LR-SAM) system under ___________ (Project).
1) Project Lakshya
2) Project Ghatak
3) Project Kapothaka
4) Project Kusha
5) Project Ulka
Answer- 4) Project Kusha
Explanation:
India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to develop a long-range
surface-to-air missile (LR-SAM) system, similar to that of Israel’s Iron Dome defence system.
• This system developed under “Project Kusha” will equip India with a robust air defence
system which will detect and neutralise incoming threats.
i. The LRSAM will be capable of destroying incoming stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles,
and precision-guided munitions within a range of up to 350 kilometres (km).
ii. The system is scheduled for deployment by 2028-2029.
Note: This air defence system will be on par with the Russian S-400 Triumf system, inducted into the
Indian Air Force(IAF).
• Israel’s Iron Dome (Kippat Barzel in Hebrew) System is a state-of-the-art rocket defence
system designed to protect against incoming short-range weapons. It operates in all weather
conditions.
4. In November 2023, the Indian Army conducted the inaugural test firing of 70 mm rockets
and 20 mm turret guns of its Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) _________ in both day and night
conditions.
1) Chinook
2) Prachand
3) Tejas
4) Rudra
5) Dhruv
Answer- 2) Prachand
Explanation:
The Indian Army conducted the inaugural test firing of 70 mm rockets and 20 mm turret guns of
its Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand in both day and night conditions.
• It was carried out by the 1st LCH squadron from the Air Force station in Likabali in Arunachal
Pradesh.
i. The Prachand is India’s first indigenous multi-role class combat helicopter, developed by Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It received operational clearance in 2017.
• The Army inducted its first LCH Prachand in October 2022.
ii. Features:The 5.8-tonne twin-engine prachand can fly at a maximum speed of 268Kilometer per
hour (kmph) and has a combat radius of 550 km, which can go up to a service ceiling of 6.5 kilometers
(km).
• It is fitted with Shakti Engine, which is co-developed by HAL and France’s engine-maker Safran.

iii. Capabilities: It can carry out activities such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of
Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), operations against slow-moving aircraft, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft
(RPAs).
5. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to provide
training in railway signalling and telecommunication systems in New Delhi, Delhi?
1) THDC India Limited
2) Telecommunications Consultants India Limited
3) Indian Telephone Industries Limited
4) RailTel Corporation of India Ltd
5) Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited
Answer- 4) RailTel Corporation of India Ltd
Explanation:
RailTel Corporation of India Limited, a Miniratna (Category-I) Central Public Sector Enterprise
(CPSE) under the Ministry of Railways, has set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to provide training in
railway signalling and telecommunication systems in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The CoE aims to ensure the availability of competent and skilled manpower in the field of
Railway Signalling and Telecommunications Training.
i. The CoE will offer a range of certification and diploma courses in collaboration with the Indian
Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
ii. Rail Edutech Private Limited is the resource partner for the CoE for providing comprehensive
railway training.
• It is an All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) approved entity.
6. Name the institute of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) that has recently (in
Nov’ 23) signed an MoU with the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) to collaborate in India’s
aerospace and defense sectors.
1) National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology
2) National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources
3) North East Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat
4) Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute
5) National Geophysical Research Institute
Answer- 1) National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology
Explanation:
Kerala-based Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-National Institute for Interdisciplinary
Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) in Bengaluru (Karnataka) to collaborate in India’s aerospace and
defense sectors.
• The collaboration aims to strengthen the indigenisation and import substitution program for
India’s aerospace and defence sectors.
i. The MoU involves the development of magnesium and aluminum alloy castings and related areas for
the aerospace and defence sectors.
ii. The MoU facilitates CSIR-NIIST to collaborate on:

• Human resource and Facility utilisation; Technology support services; Consultancy services;
and collaborative research works in the field of light alloys, for the design and development of
aerospace components and welding.
7. Name the centre/Institute that has recently (in Nov ‘23) developed a new energy-efficient
technology for converting Carbon Dioxide (CO2) to carbon monoxide (CO).
1) Institute of Chemical Technology Mumbai
2) National Centre of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization
3) Indian Institute of Bio-Social Research and Development
4) The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
5) National Institute of Technology Rourkela
Answer- 2) National Centre of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization
Explanation:
The National Centre of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization (NCoE-CCU) at Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT) Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra has developed a new energy-efficient technology
for converting Carbon Dioxide (CO2) to carbon monoxide (CO).
• It transforms the CO under electro catalytic conditions at ambient temperatures (25-40 °C) in
the presence of water.
i. In this regard, a team of researchers led by Dr. Arnab Dutta and Dr. Vikram Vishal, alongside
dedicated scholars at the NCoE-CCU, secured a patent for their CO2 to CO conversion technology.
ii. This achievement is on the lines of India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070,
and has potential for application in the steel sector.
iii. NCoE-CCU is backed by the Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Science & Technology
(MoST). It is currently being scaled up through the recently established start-up, UrjanovaC Private
Limited.
8. In November 2023, the Spear Corps, aviation unit of the Indian Army successfully test fired
the New Generation Rocket and Turret ammunition from the first Indigenous Attack
Helicopter ______________.
1) Chinook
2) Prachand
3) Tejas
4) Rudra
5) Dhruv
Answer- 4) Rudra
Explanation:
The Spear Corps (the aviation unit of the Indian Army) successfully test fired the New Generation
Rocket and Turret ammunition from the first Indigenous Attack Helicopter Rudra.
• It also enhances the Army’s strike capability and lethality in the mountains.
i. The Rudra is a weaponized version of the Advanced Light Dhruv helicopter of 5.8 Ton class powered
by two Shakti Engines.
ii. It was designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to meet the requirements
of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF).

9. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched a two-stage Black Brant 9
sounding rocket as part of INFUSE mission from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico,
United States of America (USA) in November 2023
In the INFUSE Mission, what does I stand for ?
1) Interplanetary
2) Infrared
3) Internal
4) International
5) Integral
Answer- 5) Integral
Explanation:
On 29th October 2023, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched a two-
stage Black Brant 9 sounding rocket as part of Integral Field Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Experiment
(INFUSE) mission from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, United States of America
(USA).
• The mission aims to study the Cygnus Loop, a 20,000-year-old supernova remnant located
2,600 light-years away from Earth.
• The Cygnus Loop (also known as the Veil Nebula) is a supernova remnant, the detritus of the
explosive death of a massive star about ten to 20,000 years ago. This massive star was about 20
times the size of the sun.
• INFUSE is an integral field spectrograph, the first instrument of its kind to fly to space.
• The INFUSE mission will collect data about the Cygnus Loop for a few minutes from an altitude
of 150 miles (240 kilometres).
10. In November 2023, the Indian Army (IA) is set to induct the Hermes 900 Starliner drone a
Multi-role, Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aircraft System(UAS) from
Elbit Systems, defence company of _________ (country).
1) Russia
2) Japan
3) United Arab Emirates
4) Iran
5) Israel
Answer- 5) Israel
Explanation:
The Indian Army (IA) is set to induct the Hermes
900 Starliner drone a Multi-role, Medium Altitude
Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aircraft
System(UAS) from Israel-based defence company
Elbit Systems to boost surveillance and
reconnaissance capabilities.
• The Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian
Air Force(IAF) have awarded the contract to
buy two MALE- UAS from Israel through the
fourth tranche of emergency procurement
powers granted to the forces.

• IAF inducted two Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) Heron Mark 2 drones from the
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in August 2023.
• Elbit Systems in partnership with Adani Aerospace and Defence manufactures the complete
carbon composite aerostructures for Hermes 900 Starliner in Hyderabad(Telangana)
• Hermes 900 Starliner is capable of carrying a maximum payload of 450 kg, attaining an altitude
of 30,000 ft and it can also fly continuously for up to 36 hours.
• Hermes 900 Starliner is the first and only NATO’s Standardized Agreement 4671(NATO
STANAG 4671) certified MALE UAS to operate in civilian airspace.
11. Which organisation/company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) portal has been
launched by Praveen Kumari Singh, Additional Secretary of Central Vigilance Commission
(CVC) in November 2023?
1) NTPC Limited
2) Power Finance Corporation
3) Indian Railway Finance Corporation
4) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
5) National Mineral Development Corporation
Answer- 4) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
Explanation:
Dr. Praveen Kumari Singh, Additional Secretary, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) launched
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
portal to enhance transparency in its CSR initiatives.
i. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of IREDA, Ajay Kumar Sahani, Chief
Vigilance Officer and other senior officials were present during the launch.
ii. The portal was launched on the last day of “Vigilance Awareness Week 2023” which was observed
from 31st October to 5th November 2023.
12. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) became the first Indian Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) to unveil an in-house Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) engine named ‘AVTR
1922’?
1) Hyundai Motor
2) Ashok Leyland
3) Mahindra & Mahindra
4) Eicher Motors
5) Hero MotoCorp
Answer- 2) Ashok Leyland
Explanation:
Ashok Leyland became the first Indian Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to unveil an in-
house Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) engine named ‘AVTR 1922’ .
• Ashok Leyland has delivered the first batch of 12 LNG-powered haulage trucks to Mahanagar
Gas Limited in Hosur, Tamil Nadu(TN).
i. The AVTR 1922 is a customizable engine powered by a 6-cylinder H-series ‘Hino’ engine.
ii. The engine is compliant with Bharat Stage Six (BSVI) Stage II emission standards.
iii. It is also built on the AVTR platform, which is India’s first and only fully modular truck platform.
• The engine shares many components with Ashok Leyland’s current diesel trucks engines.

13. Name the ministry that has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched ‘AAINA Dashboard for Cities’
portal.
4) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
5) Ministry of Science and Technology
Answer- 3) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Explanation:
On 13th November 2023, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched ‘AAINA
Dashboard for Cities’ portal to create a database of the key performance metrics of Urban Local
Bodies (ULB). The portal is an initiative of MoHUA.
• The primary objectives of the AAINA Dashboard are to help cities to
• Help cities see how they are doing vis-à-vis other cities,
• Inspire cities by pointing to new possibilities and areas for improvement.
• Provide cities with the opportunity to learn from and engage with frontrunning cities.
i. The ULBs submit their data, including audited accounts, and self-reported performance metrics by
logging in to the dashboard’s portal.
ii. The portal does not rank cities, but instead serves as a tool for comparing similarly placed cities and
promoting peer learning among cities.
14. Which company, along with SpaceX has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched Dragon’s 29th
Commercial Resupply Services mission (CRS-29) to the International Space Station (ISS)
through Falcon 9 Rocket from Florida, the United States of America(USA)?
1) European Space Agency
2) Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
3) China National Space Administration
4) National Aeronautics and Space Administration
5) Canadian Space Agency
Answer- 4) National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Explanation:
On 9th November 2023, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and SpaceX
jointly launched Dragon’s 29th Commercial Resupply Services mission (CRS-29) to the International
Space Station (ISS).
• CRS-29 Dragon spacecraft was launched atop a Falcon 9 Rocket from Complex 39A at NASA’s
Kennedy Space Center(KSC) in Florida, the United States of America(USA).
i. This is the 9th SpaceX launch under the Commercial Resupply Services-2 (CRS) contract.
ii. The spacecraft carried cargo weighing about 6,500 pounds (2948 kg) of scientific research, crew
supplies, and hardware to ISS.
iii. The Falcon’s first stage made a successful landing at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Landing
Zone 1 (LZ-1). The launch marked the second flight for the stage, which previously launched Crew-7.

15. Which ministry has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched the “Dashboard”, for real-time, prompt
and effective Parliament business?
2) Ministry of Science & Technology
3) Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
5) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Answer- 2) Ministry of Science & Technology
Explanation:
On 14th November 2023, Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of
Science & Technology (MoST) launched the software application Department of Science and
Technology (DST), “Dashboard”, for real-time, prompt and effective Parliament business.
i. This portal streamlines real-time Parliament business, including questions, Acts, Cabinet Notes, and
Gazette Notifications of the Government of India related to DST.
ii. It will serve as a dashboard for all activities of DST. The Minister urged the DST officials to utilize AI
(Artificial Intelligence)-driven technology for analyzing Parliament Questions across various
parameters.
iii. The MoS also laid the Foundation Stone of the new Auditorium-cum-Guest House Complex in the
premises of the “Technology Bhavan” which is the headquarters of DST.
16. In November 2023, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of
Communications (MoC) granted the requisite licenses to __________ (company) and Eutelsat
OneWeb.
1) Hughes Communications India
2) Tata Communications
3) ViaSat Inc
4) Jio Satellite Communications Limited
5) Bharti Airtel Limited
Answer- 4) Jio Satellite Communications Limited
Explanation:
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications (MoC) has
granted the requisite licenses to Jio Satellite Communications Limited and Bharti Enterprises-
owned Eutelsat OneWeb.
• DoT allocated Internet Service Provider (ISP)-A and a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT)
licence to OneWeb and ISP license to Jio.
i. It is a type of license that allows companies to provide internet access, bandwidth, and related
services to consumers and businesses.
ii. ISPs typically establish and maintain the network infrastructure, including servers, routers, and
cables, essential for transmitting data over the internet.
iii. They provide a range of services, including broadband internet, email hosting, website hosting, and
virtual private networks (VPNs).
Note- Both Jio and OneWeb possess the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS )
licence.

17. Which Institute of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently (in Nov ‘23)
launched “DISHA” – DIagnostic Services in Healthcare : Availability & Geo-mapping of
Laboratory services in India portal to assist the public to identify and locate nearest diagnostic
health facilities?
1) National Institute of Pathology
2) National Institute of Medical Statistics
3) National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research
4) Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences
5) National Institute of Immunohaematology
Answer- 1) National Institute of Pathology
Explanation:
The Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) National Institute of Pathology (NIP) in New Delhi,
Delhi launched “DISHA” – DIagnostic Services in Healthcare : Availability & Geo-mapping of
Laboratory services in India portal (www.icmrdisha.in) to assist the public to identify and locate
nearest diagnostic health facilities.
• The free and dynamic DISHA portal lists the diagnostic public healthcare facilities across India.
• ICMR-NIP is gathering data on diagnostic public healthcare facilities and creating a user-
friendly online map to access suitable laboratory facilities.
i. The portal also identifies areas with an imbalance between population densities and diagnostic
facilities.
ii. The data from the portal can help public health experts and government policymakers to empower
existing labs, and create new facilities where necessary.
18. Name the 4th Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWC) that was launched
by the Indian Navy (IN) in Kattupalli, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
1) Androth
2) Abhay
3) Amini
4) Anjadip
5) Andaman
Answer- 3) Amini
Explanation:
On November 16, 2023, the Indian Navy (IN) launched ‘Amini‘, the 4th in a series of eight Anti-
Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWC), at shipbuilding facility of Larsen & Toubro
(L&T) in Kattupalli, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE).
i. Features:
• Amini, a Arnala class ship, is named after Amini island in Lakshadweep due to its strategic
significance.
• It is designed for anti-submarine operations in coastal waters and low intensity maritime
operations (LIMO), and mine laying operations.
• It is a 77-meter ship with a 900-ton displacement, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 25
knots and covering 1,800 nautical miles.
Note- The contract for building eight ASW SWC ships was signed between the Ministry of Defence
(MoD) and GRSE on April 29, 2019.

• As a part of contract, on June 13, 2023, INS (Indian Naval Ship) Anjadip, the 3rd of eight
indigenously built ASW-SWC was launched.
• The first ASW-SWC namely INS Arnala was launched in December 2022 while the second one
INS Androth was launched on March 21, 2023.
19. In November 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched a robotic
challenge program “ISRO Robotics Challenge-U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) 2024 (IRoC-U
2024)” with the cash prize of Rs ___________.
1) 8 Lakh
2) 5 Lakh
3) 10 Lakh
4) 3 Lakh
5) 6 Lakh
Answer- 2) 5 Lakh
Explanation:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched a robotic challenge program “ISRO Robotics
Challenge-U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) 2024 (IRoC-U 2024)” with a tagline of “Let’s build a space
robot” to build robots to compete in an extra-terrestrial-inspired arena.
• The program will help the student community to design and realisate a ‘Wheeled/Legged
Rover’ encompassing the development of complete hardware and software.
• The registrations for the challenge will start on November 20 and will conclude on December
15, 2023.
• The winning team will be awarded the cash prize of Rs 5 lakhs.
20. In November 2023, Indian Navy (IN) launched the _________ Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA)
Barge, LSAM 10 (Yard 78) of the 08 x MCA Barge project, at East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh.
1) 2nd
2) 3rd
3) 4th
4) 6th
5) 5th
Answer- 3) 4th
Explanation:
On 20th November 2023, Indian Navy (IN) launched the Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge,
LSAM 10 (Yard 78), the 4th vessel in the 08 x MCA Barge project, at Guttenadeevi, East Godavari,
Andhra Pradesh (AP).
i. The launching Ceremony was presided over by Cmde Shanmugam Sabesan, CRO (East).
ii. The barge was built by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME) Shipyard, M/s SECON
Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam(AP).
• The availability of these Barges would provide impetus to the operational commitments of IN
by facilitating Transportation, Embarkation, and Disembarkation of articles/ ammunition to IN
Ships both alongside jetties and at outer harbours.
• These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulations
of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

21. In November 2023, ____________ became the first firm to receive the authorisations from
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) for satellite broadband
services in India.
1) Hughes India
2) Jio Satellite Communications
4) Viasat India
5) OneWeb India
Answer- 5) OneWeb India
Explanation:
OneWeb India has become the first firm to receive the authorisations from Indian National Space
Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to launch Eutelsat OneWeb’s commercial satellite
broadband services in India.
i. With this, OneWeb India aims to extend internet services to rural and unconnected areas and
territorial waters of India on a 24×7 basis using the Eutelsat OneWeb constellation.
ii. The authorisation valid for 5 years is subject to the assignment of the spectrum by the Department
of Telecommunication (DoT), Ministry of Communication for both the gateways and user terminal
operations.
22. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with the University of Sydney
Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID) to collaborate on vaccine R&D & Infectious Diseases?
1) Dr. Reddy's Laboratories
2) Biological E Limited
3) Bharat Biotech International Limited
4) Indian Immunologicals Limited
5) Serum Institute of India
Answer- 3) Bharat Biotech International Limited
Explanation:
Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), the developer of India’s first indigenous Covid-19
vaccine Covaxin, inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Sydney
Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID) to collaborate on advancing vaccine research, strengthening
academic-industry partnerships, and combating infectious diseases globally.
i. It aims to build strong sectoral and cross-organisational collaborations to design novel
methodologies to tackle future epidemics and infectious disease.
ii. The collaboration will utilise academia-industry strengths for advancing the science of vaccines and
biotherapeutics.
iii. BBIL has over 145 global patents, a portfolio of over 19 vaccines and four biotherapeutics.
SPORTS
1. Who has recently (in Oct ‘23) won the Formula 1 (F1)Mexico City Grand Prix 2023?
1) Sergio Pérez
2) Fernando Alonso
3) Charles Leclerc

4) Lewis Hamilton
5) Max Verstappen
Answer- 5) Max Verstappen
Explanation:
Max Verstappen, the Belgian-Dutch driver of Red Bull won the Formula 1 (F1)Mexico City Grand
Prix held at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit in Mexico City, Mexico from 27th to 29th
October 2023.
• This marks Verstappen’s third consecutive win at the Mexico City GP including his win in
2021,2022 and 2023.
i. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton (United Kingdom-UK) secured second place while Ferrari driver
Charles Leclerc(Monaco) secured third place in the Mexico City GP.
ii. Max Verstappen leads the F1 World Championship in 2023 with 491 points in the F1 driver
standings.
2. Which of the following points is “Incorrect” with respect to the Hangzhou Asian Para Games
2022 held in October 2023?
1) The Indian contingent finished 8th position in the medal tally with 122 medals (39 gold, 31 silver,
and 52 bronze) in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games 2022 held in Hangzhou, China.
2) The 4th edition of the Asian Para Games (2022) marks India’s record for the highest medal tally so
far surpassing the previous record medal tally of 72 medals in the 2018 Asian Para Games.
3) Sumit Antil won gold in the javelin throw F64 event with a new world record of 73.29m
4) Sheetal Devi is the only current female international archer to shoot with her feet, won two gold
(Women’s Individual Compound & Mixed Team Compound – Open) and a silver (women’s compound
doubles) medal.
5) Ankur Dhama set a new record by becoming the first Indian to win two gold medals (Men’s 5000m-
T11 and Men’s 1500m-T11) in a single edition of the Asian Para Games.
Answer- 1) The Indian contingent finished 8th position in the medal tally with 122 medals (39
gold, 31 silver, and 52 bronze) in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games 2022 held in Hangzhou,
China.
Explanation:
The Indian contingent finished 5th position in the medal tally with 111 medals (29 gold, 31 silver, and
51 bronze) in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games 2022 held in Hangzhou, China from 22nd to 28th
October 2023.
• The 4th edition of the Asian Para Games (2022) marks India’s record for the highest medal
tally so far surpassing the previous record medal tally of 72 medals(15 gold, 24 silver, and 33
bronze) in the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.
• Sumit Antil won gold in the javelin throw F64 event with a new world record of 73.29m. He
broke his own previous world record of 70.83m
• Sundar Singh Gurjar set the world record in the javelin throw F46 event with a throw of
68.60m to surpass the earlier world record of 67.79m.
• Sheetal Devi is the only current female international archer to shoot with her feet.The 16-year-
old Sheetal Devi won two gold [Women’s Individual Compound & Mixed Team Compound –
Open(along with Rakesh Kumar)] and a silver [women’s compound doubles (along with
Sarita)].

• Ankur Dhama set a new record by becoming the first Indian to win two gold medals (Men’s
5000m-T11 and Men’s 1500m-T11) in a single edition of the Asian Para Games.
• Aruna Tanwar won India’s first-ever para taekwondo medal by winning bronze medal in the
Women’s K44 -47kg event.
3. In which Stadium, the 22-foot statue of Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar was unveiled in
November 2023?
1) M. Chinnaswamy Stadium (Bengaluru, Karnataka)
2) Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
3) Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad, Gujarat)
4) Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi, Delhi)
5) Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium (Hyderabad, Telangana)
Answer- 2) Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
Explanation:
Maharashtra Chief Minister(CM) Eknath Shinde unveiled the 22-foot statue of Bharat Ratna Sachin
Tendulkar at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It serves as a tribute to his
illustrious career (1989 – 2013) in his 50 years of life, commemorating his 50th birth anniversary
celebrated in April 2023.
• The statue captures the legendary cricketer in the act of playing a stroke and has been placed
adjacent to the Sachin Tendulkar Stand. The statue was built by the Mumbai Cricket
Association (MCA) at the Wankhede Stadium.
• The statue has been designed by Pramod Kamble, a renowned painter and sculptor from the
Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra.
i. Sachin Tendulkar is popularly known as Master Blaster and God of Cricket. Till date, he is the
youngest recipient and the first-ever sportsperson to receive the Bharat Ratna award.
ii. Awards: Arjuna Award (1994 – Cricket); Khel Ratna (1997); Padma Shri (1999) and Padma
Vibhushan (2008) for Sports; Bharat Ratna (2014).
4. India finished 2nd in the medal tally with ___________ medals in the Asian Shooting
Championships 2023 held in Changwon, South Korea from October to November 2023.
1) 39
2) 76
3) 55
4) 65
5) 45
Answer- 3) 55
Explanation:
India finished second in the medal tally with 55 medals (21 Gold, 21 Silver & 13 Bronze) in the
Asian Shooting Championships 2023 held in Changwon, South Korea from 22nd October to 2nd
November 2023.
i. The 15th edition of the Asian Shooting Championships comprised both Junior and senior-level
events, organised by Asian Shooting Confederation (ASC).

Medal Tally:
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
1 China 33 21 22 76
2 India 21 21 13 55
3 South Korea 16 22 19 57
i. Indian rifle shooter Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar won two medals including Gold medal in the
Individual men’s 50m rifle 3 positions and Silver medal in 50m Rifle 3 Positions men’s team event
along with Akhil Sheoran and Swapnil Kusale
ii. Harmehar Singh Lally won the gold medal in the Skeet Men Junior event (Shooting) and Bhavtegh
Singh Gill won the silver medal in the same event.
5. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Federation Internationale
des Echecs (FIDE) Grand Swiss 2023 held from October to November 2023?
A) The Indian Grandmaster (GM) Vidit Santosh Gujrathi won the 3rd edition of FIDE Grand
Swiss 2023 title by defeating GM Hikaru Nakamura (United States).
B) International Master (IM)Vaishali Rameshbabu won the 2nd edition of FIDE Women’s Grand
Swiss 2023 title by defeating GM Anna Muzychuk (Ukraine).
C) With this win, Vidit Gujrathi qualified for the Candidates Tournament and also became the
second Indian after R. Praggnanandhaa to qualify for this tournament.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The Indian Grandmaster (GM) Vidit Santosh Gujrathi won the 3rd edition of Federation
Internationale des Echecs (FIDE) Grand Swiss 2023 title by defeating GM Hikaru Nakamura(United
States).
• The FIDE Grand Swiss 2023 was held from the 23rd of October to the 6th of November 2023 in
the Villa Marina, Douglas, Isle of Man.
i. International Master (IM)Vaishali Rameshbabu won the 2nd edition of FIDE Women’s Grand
Swiss 2023 title by defeating GM Anna Muzychuk (Ukraine).
ii. With this win, Vidit Gujrathi qualified for the Candidates Tournament. He became the second
Indian after R. Praggnanandhaa to qualify for this tournament.
• Being secured the top position Vaishali also qualified for the Candidates Tournament.
6. In November 2023, the Indian women’s hockey team won the 7th edition of the Women’s
Asian Champions Trophy by defeating ___________ (country), held in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
1) Japan
2) China
3) South Korea

4) Malaysia
5) Thailand
Answer- 1) Japan
Explanation:
Indian women’s hockey team won the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023
title by defeating Japan 4-0 in the final held in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
• The 7th edition of the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy was held in Marang Gomke Jaypal
Singh Mundha AstroTurf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from 27th October to 5th
November 2023.
• China won the bronze medal by defeating South Korea in the Bronze medal match.
• India won the Maximum Team Goals Award(27 goals).
i. The Women’s Asian Champions Trophy is the biennial tournament, the first edition was held in
2010 in Kangsao, Busan, South Korea.
• Hockey India organised this tournament with support from the Asian Hockey Federation(AHF).
• India women’s team won its maiden Asian Champions Trophy title in 2016 (Singapore) while
Japan won in 2013 and 2021 (South Korea)editions.
7. Who has recently (in Nov’ 23) won the Formula 1 (FI) Sao Paulo Grand Prix (GP) 2023?
1) Lewis Hamilton
2) Max Verstappen
3) Carlos Sainz Jr.
4) Fernando Alonso
5) Charles Leclerc
Explanation:
Max Verstappen, the Red Bull driver (Dutch-Belgian) won the Formula 1 (FI) Sao Paulo Grand Prix
(GP) 2023 title held at Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace circuit in Brazil from 03rd November 2023 to
05th November 2023.
i. McLaren driver Lando Norris (United Kingdom-UK) secured second place while Aston Martin driver
Fernando Alonso (Spain) secured third place.
ii. This win also marks Verstappen’s 17th win out of 20 races of the 2023 season.
• Max Verstappen broke his own record for the most F1 race victories in a single season in 2023
by winning 17 races.
iii. Max Verstappen leads the F1 World Championship in 2023 with 524 points in the F1 driver
standings.
8. Name the cricket team that has recently (in Nov ‘23) won their 1st Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
(SMAT) 2023-2024 title.
1) Punjab
2) Odisha
3) Chhattisgarh
4) Gujarat
5) Baroda
Answer- 1) Punjab

Explanation:
The Punjab cricket team won its maiden domestic Twenty20 (T20) IDFC First Bank Syed Mushtaq
Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2023-2024 title by defeating the Baroda team in the final held in Inderjit Singh
Bindra Stadium in Mohali, Punjab.
i. The victory for the Punjab team was the first domestic title since their Ranji Trophy victory in the
1992-93 season.
ii. The Punjab team will get a cash reward of Rs 80 lakhs each from the BCCI (Board of Control for
Cricket in India) and the PCA (Punjab Cricket Association).
• Ashutosh Sharma playing for Railways team scored 11-ball fifty against Arunachal Pradesh
team in the group stage match. It has broken the record of Yuvraj Singh’s 12-ball fifty, which he
scored against England in the inaugural World T20 in 2007 in (South Africa).
• This edition made the record of hitting the greatest number of sixes (1503) in the history of
SMAT.
• The 16th edition of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was played from 16 October to 6 November
2023 in Ranchi (Jharkhand), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Mumbai(Maharashtra), Dehradun
(Uttarakhand), and Chandigarh, Mohali(Punjab).
Note- IDFC First Bank secured the title sponsorship rights for all BCCI matches, domestic and
international, for the next three years.
9. In November 2023, the Indian contingent finished second in the medal tally with ___________
medals in the Asian Archery Championships 2023.
1) 6
2) 11
3) 7
4) 10
5) 8
Answer- 3) 7
Explanation:
The Indian contingent finished second in the medal tally with 7 medals (3 Gold, 1 silver and 3
Bronze) in the Asian Archery Championships 2023 held in Bangkok, Thailand from 3rd to 10th
November 2023.
• South Korea secured first place in the medal tally with 11 medals(6 Gold, 2 Silver and 3
Bronze) while Kazakhstan in third place with 3 medals(1 Gold and 2 Silver) in the 23rd edition
of the Asian Archery Championship.
i. India’s Parneet Kaur won two gold medals in the Asian Championships including women’s
compound and women’s compound team.
• In the women’s compound team, she won the gold medal along with Jyothi Surekha Vennam
and Aditi Swami.
ii. Abhishek Verma, the Asian Games 2018 champion and silver medallist at Hangzhou 2022, won the
Bronze medal in the men’s compound event.
10. Name the state government that has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed an MoU with ArcelorMittal
Nippon Steel (AM/NS) India to establish a High-performance center (HPC) in Kho Kho.
1) Odisha
2) West Bengal

3) Assam
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 1) Odisha
Explanation:
Odisha government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ArcelorMittal Nippon
Steel (AM/NS) India to establish a High-performance center (HPC) in Kho Kho at Kalinga Stadium in
Bhubaneswar, Odisha to promote Kho Kho talents.
i. The MoU signed in the presence of Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, highlighted the
commitment of both parties to fostering sporting excellence.
ii. Under the MoU, Odisha will extend infrastructure support, while AM/NS India has committed to
providing experienced and dedicated coaches of Kho Kho to train talented youths.
iii. A cluster of HPCs have been set up by Odisha at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar and the Kho Kho
HPC will be an important addition to the ecosystem.
11. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 37th edition of the
National Games held in Goa from 26th October to 9th November 2023?
A) Maharashtra won the Raja Bhalindra Singh Trophy for the overall championship in the
National Games 2023 & it is also the first time Maharashtra has topped the medal tally (228
medal) since 1994.
B Jyothi Yarraji (Andhra Pradesh) won the gold medal in the women’s 100m hurdles with the
national games record timing of 13.22 seconds.
C) The 14-year-old swimmer Dhinidhi Desinghu of Karnataka won seven gold medals including
her win in the 100 m freestyle event with a new national games record of 57.87 Seconds.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Maharashtra Finished top in the medal tally with 228 medals (80 gold, 69 silver, and 79 bronze) in
the 37th edition of the National Games held in Goa from October 26th to November 9th, 2023.
• Maharashtra won the Raja Bhalindra Singh Trophy for the overall championship in the
National Games 2023, and it is also the first time Maharashtra has topped the medal tally
since 1994.
• Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) finished in second place with 126 medals (66 gold, 27
silver, and 33 bronze) while Haryana finished in third place with 192 medals (62 gold, 55
silver, and 75 bronze).
• Beach football, roll ball, golf, sepaktakraw, sqay martial arts, kalliyarapattu, pencak silat,
Yachtin gand taekwondo were added to the Goa National games.
• Best Male Athlete: Srihari Nataraj(Karnataka) won ten medals(8 golds, 1 silver and 1 bronze)
in the swimming event.
• Best Female Athlete: It was jointly awarded to gymnasts Sanyukta Prasen Kale(Maharashtra)
and Pranati Nayak(Odisha). Both of them won Five medals each(four golds and one silver).

• Jyothi Yarraji(Andhra Pradesh), a silver medallist at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, won
the gold medal in the women’s 100m hurdles with the national games record timing of 13.22
seconds.
• The 14-year-old swimmer Dhinidhi Desinghu of Karnataka won seven gold medals including
her win in the 100 m freestyle event with a new national games record of 57.87 Seconds.
• Seema Punia(Haryana) won her maiden gold medal in the national games in the women’s
discus throw event with a national games record throw of 52.51m.
• Elakkiyadasan (Tamil Nadu) won the gold medal in both the men’s 100m race event with a
timing of 10.36 seconds and the men’s 4x100m relay team event.
• Sneha SS(Karnataka) won the gold medal in the women’s 100m race event with a timing of
11.45 seconds.
• Tejas Ashok Shirse(Maharashtra) won the gold medal in the men’s 110m hurdles with a record
timing of 13.71 seconds.
12. Which of the following points is ‘Incorrect’ with respect to the International Cricket Council
(ICC) Men’s One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup(CWC) 2023 held in November
2023?
1) The Australian Men’s cricket team led by Pat Cummins won the 15th edition of the ICC Men’s ODI
CWC 2023 by India and claimed their 8th ODI World Cup title.
2) The 2023 ODI World Cup highest run-scorer Virat Kohli has scored 765 runs and he also broke
Tendulkar’s (49 centuries) record of the most number of centuries in ODI matches by scoring 50th
century against New Zealand in the semi-final.
3) Mohammed Shami became the first Indian bowler in an ODI match to take seven wickets, and also
made the record for the most number of wickets for India in a single edition of the ODI World Cup
with 24 wickets in the 2023 edition.
4) Glenn Maxwell (Australia) made the record by hitting the fastest century in ODI World Cup history
where he scored 100 runs in 40 balls against the Netherlands.
5) England bowler David Jonathan Willey has announced retirement from all forms of international
cricket at the end of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Answer- 1) The Australian Men’s cricket team led by Pat Cummins won the 15th edition of the
ICC Men’s ODI CWC 2023 by India and claimed their 8th ODI World Cup title.
Explanation:
The Australian Men’s cricket team led by Pat Cummins won the 13th edition of the International
Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup(CWC) 2023 by defeating
Rohit Sharma led India in the finals held in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 was hosted by India across 10 venues from 5th October
to 19th November 2023.
• This win for Australia marks their sixth ODI World Cup title including 1987, 1999, 2003,
2007, 2015, and 2023.
• The 2023 ODI World Cup highest run-scorer Virat Kohli has scored 765 runs, the most runs
scored ever in a single edition of an ODI World Cup, and breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s previous
record of 673 runs set in the 2003 edition.
• Virat Kohli also broke Tendulkar’s (49 centuries) record of the most number of
centuries in ODI matches, while Kohli scored his 50th century against New Zealand in
the semi-final.

• Virat Kohli became the second-highest run-scorer in ODI World Cups with 1792 runs in
37 matches.
• He overtook Ricky Ponting (Australia) (1743 runs) and was behind Sachin Tendulkar
(2278) in the top run-scorers in the Men’s ODI World Cup list.
• Mohammed Shami becomes the first Indian bowler in an ODI match to take seven wickets,
having achieved this feat against New Zealand in the semifinal.
• Mohammed Shami also made the record for the most number of wickets for India in a
single edition of the ODI World Cup with 24 wickets in the 2023 edition by surpassing
Zaheer Khan’s record of 21 wickets in the 2011 ODI World Cup edition.
• Mohammed Shami also became the first Indian to take three five-wickets in this ODI
World Cup.
• Glenn Maxwell(Australia) made the record by hitting the fastest century in ODI World Cup
history where he scored 100 runs in 40 balls against the Netherlands.
• England bowler David Jonathan Willey has announced retirement from all forms of
international cricket at the end of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
13. In November 2023 Rohit Sharma became the highest run-scorer as captain in a single
World Cup edition with _______ runs in the Men’s One Day International (ODI) Cricket World
Cup(CWC) 2023.
1) 699
2) 634
3) 597
4) 342
5) 436
Answer- 3) 597
Explanation:
The Australian Men’s cricket team led by Pat Cummins won the 13th edition of the International
Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup(CWC) 2023 by defeating
Rohit Sharma led India in the finals held in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Key Performance by Cricket players:
• Rohit Sharma became the highest run-scorer as captain in a single World Cup edition with
597 runs in the 2023 ODI World Cup while he broke New Zealand’s Kane Williamson record of
578 runs, which came in the 2019 edition.
• Rohit Sharma tops the list of the most sixes in ODI World Cups with 54 sixes, he also
leads the most sixes in the 2023 ODI World Cup with 31 sixes which is also the most
number of sixes smashed in a single World Cup edition.
• Rohit Sharma becomes the fifth Indian to score 18,000 runs in international cricket,
others being Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, and Virat Kohli.
• KL Rahul also made the record of the fastest century by an Indian in the ODI World Cup when
he scored a century in 62 balls against the Netherlands in the group match.
• India’s Kuldeep Yadav completed 250 international wickets during the match against South
Africa in the group stage of CWC 2023.
• Shubman Gill became the fastest batsman to reach 2,000 runs in ODI cricket during the World
Cup group stage match against New Zealand.
• Shubman Gill achieved this feat in 38 matches since his ODI debut in 2019.

• New Zealand batsman Rachin Ravindra(23-year-old ) broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record of

scoring the most runs in a single edition of the Cricket World Cup below the age of 25.
• Ravindra scored 578 runs in the 2023 ODI world cup surpassing sachin’s record of 523
runs at the 1996 ODI World Cup.
• Angelo Mathews(Sri Lanka) became the first cricketer to be dismissed by ‘timed out’ format in
an international match.
14. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the Formula 1 (F1) Las Vegas Grand Prix(GP) 2023 held
at Nevada, the United States of America(USA)?
1) Lewis Hamilton
2) Max Verstappen
3) Carlos Sainz Jr.
4) Fernando Alonso
5) Charles Leclerc
Explanation:
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the Dutch-Belgian driver, won the Formula 1 (FI) Las Vegas Grand
Prix(GP) 2023 held at Las Vegas Strip Circuit in Nevada, the United States of America(USA) from 16th
November 2023 to 18th November 2023.
• Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc (Monaco) secured 2nd place while Red Bull’s Sergio Perez (Mexico)
secured 3rd place.
• This win also marks Verstappen’s 18th win out of 20 races of the 2023 season.
• Max Verstappen broke his own record for the most F1 race victories in a single season in 2023
by winning 18 races.
15. In November 2023, the International Cricket Council (ICC) introduced a “stop clock” in
men’s One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket matches.
The bowling teams in men’s ODIs and T20Is will be imposed a _______ (run) penalty, if the
bowler fails to bowl the next over within _________ (Time) after the completion of the previous
over for the third time in an innings.
1) 6 run; 60 seconds
Answer- 4) 5 run; 60 seconds
Explanation:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a “stop clock” in men’s One Day International
(ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket matches to regulate the time taken between overs.
• This announcement was one of the decisions made at a board meeting of ICC at
Ahmedabad(Gujarat) on 20th November 2023.
i. About the Stop Clock rule:
• The bowling teams in men’s ODIs and T20Is will be imposed a five-run penalty if the bowler
fails to bowl the next over within 60 seconds after the completion of the previous over for the
third time in an innings.

• The Stop Clock will be introduced on a trial basis from December 2023 to April 2024.
ii. ICC also announced equal match-day pay for both female and male umpires from January 2024.
iii. According to new gender eligibility regulation, male-to-female participants who have undergone
male puberty will not be eligible to compete in the international women’s game, irrespective of any
surgical or gender reassignment treatment they may have undertaken.
• By the new rule, transgender players are not able to play in women’s international cricket.
Following this ICC decision, Australian-born transgender cricketer Danielle McGahey who
played for Canada announced her retirement from international cricket.
• Danielle McGahey was the first transgender cricketer to take part in an official international
match when she played for Canada against Brazil in September 2023.
16. In November 2023, Novak Djokovic (Serbia) won his __________ Association of Tennis
Professionals (ATP) Finals title by defeating Jannik Sinner (Italy) in the men’s singles at Nitto
ATP finals 2023.
1) 6th
2) 9th
3) 7th
4) 10th
5) 8th
Answer- 3) 7th
Explanation:
Novak Djokovic (Serbia) defeated Jannik Sinner (Italy) to win the men’s singles title in Nitto
Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) finals 2023, held from 12th -19th November 2023 at the
Pala Alpitour stadium in Turin, Italy.
• This marks Novak Djokovic’s 7th ATP finals title, which includes 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014,
2015, 2022, and 2023. With this, Djokovic broke Roger Federer’s record of six ATP Finals titles.
i. Djokovic is at the top of the list of winning the most number of Grand Slams with 24 titles while
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer are in the second and third position with 22 and 20 Grand Slams
respectively.
ii. Rajeev Ram(United States of America-USA) and Joe Salisbury(United Kingdom-UK) won the ATP
Finals men’s doubles 2023 title by defeating Marcel Granollers(Spain) and Horacio Zeballos
(Argentina) in the finals.
• This marks Ram and Salisbury’s pair second ATP Finals title including their win in 2022 and
2023.
iii. Rohan Bopanna(India) and Matthew Ebden(Australia) pair lost to Marcel Granollers and Horacio
Zeballos in the semifinals of the ATP men’s Doubles Finals.
17. Name the Tennis player who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the women’s singles title at the
2023 GNP Seguros Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) title by defeating Jessica Pegula from
the United States of America (USA).
1) Laura Siegemund(Germany)
2) Elena Rybakina (Kazakhstan)
3) Anhelina Kalinina (Ukraine)
4) Ellen Perez(Australia)
5) Iga Swiatek (Poland)

Answer- 5) Iga Swiatek (Poland)

Explanation:
Iga Swiatek (Poland) defeated Jessica Pegula (U.S.A) to win the women’s singles title at the 2023
GNP Seguros Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals.
• The first-time WTA Finals title winner Iga Swiatek was given the WTA Finals Billie Jean King
Trophy. The 22-year-old Iga Swiatek was the youngest WTA Finals title winner since Petra
Kvitova(Czech Republic) won in 2011 at the age of 21.
• Iga Swiatek was named the year-end No. 1 ranking (Women’s Singles) by WTA
i. Laura Siegemund (Germany) and Vera Zvonareva (Unflagged – Russia) defeated Nicole Melichar-
Martinez (U.S.A) and Ellen Perez (Australia) to win the Women’s Doubles title at the WTA Finals.
• The winning women’s doubles pair was presented with the WTA Finals Martina Navratilova
doubles trophy.
ii. The 2023 GNP Seguros WTA Finals was held from 29th October – 5th November 2023 in Cancun,
Mexico.
18. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the World Wushu
Championships held in November 2023?
A) India won three medals (one silver and two bronze) in the 16th edition of the World Wushu
Championships (2023) held from 16th to 20th November 2023 in Fort Worth, Texas, United
States of America(USA).
B) Naorem Roshibina Devi won the silver medal in the women’s sanda 60 kg category.
C) Kushal Kumar won the bronze medal in the men’s 48kg Sanda category & Chhavi Ruhela
won the bronze medal in the women’s 48kg Sanda category.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
India won three medals (one silver and two bronze) in the 16th edition of the World Wushu
Championships (2023) held from 16th to 20th November 2023 in Fort Worth, Texas, United States of
America (USA).
• The Indian medalists were Naorem Roshibina Devi (silver), Kushal Kumar (bronze), and
Chhavi Ruhela (bronze).
Indian Medal Winners:
• Naorem Roshibina Devi won the silver medal in the women’s sanda 60 kg category after she
lost to Thi Thu Nguyen(Vietnam) in the finals.
• Kushal Kumar from Punjab won the bronze medal in the men’s 48kg Sanda category
• Chhavi Ruhela from Uttar Pradesh won the bronze medal in the women’s 48kg Sanda category.
i. The World Wushu Championship 2023, the biennial event is hosted by the International Wushu
Federation (IWUF).
• The 12-member Indian contingent participated in the 2023 WWC event.
ii. China finished top in the medal tally with 15 Gold medals while Vietnam finished second with 11
medals(5 Gold, 3 Silver, and 3 Bronze).

Note- Wushu is the umbrella term for all martial art styles originating in China, including disciplines
ranging from tai chi to full-contact fighting(kungfu).
19. In November 2023, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur
announced the first-ever Khelo India Para Games 2023 to be held in ____________ (state/UT) in
December 2023.
1) Delhi
2) Goa
4) Gujarat
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 1) Delhi
Explanation:
Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports, announced the first-
ever Khelo India Para Games 2023, which will be held in New Delhi, Delhi from December 10 to 17,
2023.
i. The Khelo India Para Games is organised to develop para sports and to identify talented para-
athletes.
ii. The games will feature seven disciplines such as para-athletics, para-shooting, para-archery, para-
football, para-badminton, para-table tennis, and para-weight lifting.
iii. These games will be held at three Sports Authority of India (SAI) stadiums in Delhi namely:
• Indira Gandhi Sports Complex
• Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range
• Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
20. The Indian Para Archery team has topped the medal tally with a total of ______ medals at the
2023 Asian Para Archery Championships and CQT (Continental Qualifying Tournament) 2024
held at Bangkok, Thailand in November 2023.
1) 10
2) 15
3) 9
4) 20
5) 12
Answer- 3) 9
Explanation:
The Indian Para Archery team has topped the medal tally with a total of 9 medals (4 gold; 4 silver;
1 bronze) at the 2023 Asian Para Archery Championships and CQT(Continental Qualifying
Tournament) 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand, which took place from 16 to 25 November 2023.
i. South Korea finished in 2nd place with 5 medals(3 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze), and China finished 3rd
with 4 medals(2 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze).
ii. World No. 5 Rakesh Kumar, hailing from Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), who led the Indian team
secured 3 Gold medals in 3 categories.
• Sheetal Devi has won a total of 3 medals, 2 gold and 1 silver during the event.
• She won the gold medals as a part of Compound Open Mixed Team and Compound Women
Open Team and won the silver in Compound Women Open.

• At present, Sheetal Devi is the only female international archer to shoot with her feet.
21. Which country’s tennis team has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the Davis Cup 2023 by defeating
Australia.
1) Serbia
2) Spain
3) Canada
4) Italy
5) Brazil
Answer- 4) Italy
Explanation:
On 26th November 2023, Italian tennis team captained by Filippo Volandri, won the Davis Cup
2023 by defeating Australian team captained by Lleyton Hewitt in the finals held in Palacio de
Deportes Jose Maria Martin Carpena in Malaga, Spain. This marks Italy’s 2nd Davis Cup title.
Previously, Italy won the title in 1976. The 2023 Davis Cup is the 111th edition of the tournament.
i. Italy has become the10th nation to hold the No. 1 ranking since the Davis Cup Nations Rankings
were introduced in December 2001.
ii. The first edition of Davis Cup was held in 1900. The tournament was originally known as the
International Lawn Tennis Challenge. The event was named Davis Cup after Dwight Davis’s trophy,
which was designed by William Durgin and crafted by Rowland Rhodes.
• The United States of America (USA) has won the most number (32) of Davis Cup titles while
Australia is the 2nd most successful team with 28 titles.
• India finished as runners-up 3 times (1966, 1974, 1987), the most by any nation from Asia
proper.
22. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the 15th edition of the Formula 1 (F1) Etihad Airways
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Abu Dhabi GP 2023) held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?
1) Lewis Hamilton
2) Max Verstappen
3) Carlos Sainz Jr.
4) Fernando Alonso
5) Charles Leclerc
Explanation:
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen (Belgian-Dutch driver competing under the Dutch flag) won the 15th
edition of the Formula 1 (F1) Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Abu Dhabi GP 2023), held at
Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 26 November 2023.
• This also marks Max’s 4th consecutive Abu Dhabi GP title and 19th title of the 2023 season.
• With this win, Verstappen became the 1st driver in history to lead 1,000 laps in a
single season.
• Abu Dhabi 2023 marks the last race (22nd) of 2023 season.
• Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc of Monaco finished 2nd and Mercedes’ George Russell (3rd) of the
United Kingdom (UK) finished 3rd.

23. Which of the following Indian badminton players were recently (in Nov ‘23) settled for 2nd
place in the men’s doubles of Li Ning China Masters 2023 held at Shenzhen, China in November
2023?
1) Lakshya Sen and Srikanth Kidambi
2) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
3) Chirag Shetty and Lakshya Sen
4) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Srikanth Kidambi
5) Prannoy H. S. and Chirag Shetty
Answer- 2) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
Explanation:
The Indian badminton duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty settled for 2nd place in
the men’s doubles of Li Ning China Masters 2023 held in Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium, Shenzhen,
China from 21st to 26th November 2023.
i. The Indian duo lost the finals against the World No. 1 pair of Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang of
China.
ii. China Masters 2023 is a Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 750 tournament.
iii. Winners of China Masters 2023:
• Men’s Singles – Kodai Naraoka (Japan)
• Women’s Singles – Chen Yu Fei (China)
• Men’s Doubles – Liang Wei Keng & Wang Chang (China).
• Women’s Doubles – Nami Matsuyama & Chiharu Shida (Japan)
• Mixed Doubles – Zheng Si Wei & Huang Ya Qiong (China)
24. Which Team has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the 13th edition of Hockey India Senior Men
National Championship title 2023?
1) Hockey Haryana
2) Hockey Karnataka
3) Hockey Gujarat
4) Hockey Tamil Nadu
5) Hockey Punjab
Answer- 5) Hockey Punjab
Explanation:
Hockey Punjab won the 13th edition of Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2023
and clinched the gold medal by defeating Hockey Haryana in the finals.
i. Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu clinched bronze medal and stands at third place after defeating Hockey
Karnataka.
ii. The Championship was held from 17th to 28th November 2023 at Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey
Stadium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This marks Hockey Punjab’s fourth title in the 13 editions of the
tournament.

BOOKS AND AUTHORS

1. Name the personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) written his autobiography in Malayalam
‘Nilavu Kudicha Simhangal‘.
1) G. Madhavan Nair
2) Nambi Narayanan
3) K. Sivan
4) Sreedhara Panicker Somnath
5) S. Kiran Kumar
Answer- 4) Sreedhara Panicker Somnath
Explanation:
Sreedhara Panicker Somnath (S. Somnath), Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) has written his autobiography in his mother-tongue Malayalam titled ‘Nilavu Kudicha
Simhangal‘. The book is published by Kerala-based Lipi Publications.
• The book was inspired by the success of Chandrayaan-3, ISRO’s lunar-exploration mission
headed by S Somanath in August 2023.
i. Nilavu Kudicha Simhangal’ is loosely translated as “Lions that drank the moonlight”.
ii. It delves into ISRO’s rocket manufacturing, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV),
Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mark III, and the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
2. Who authored the book, Building Partnerships – India and International Cooperation for
Maritime Security that was released by Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Vice President(VP) of India in
November 2023?
1) Captain Rakesh Pal
2) Captain MV Pathak
3) Captain Ajay Mishra
4) Captain Neeraj Tiwari
5) Captain Himadri Das
Answer- 5) Captain Himadri Das
Explanation:
Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Vice President(VP) of India released a new book titled “Building
Partnerships – India and International Cooperation for Maritime Security” authored by Captain
Himadri Das during the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2023 (IPRD-2023) at Manekshaw Centre in
New Delhi, Delhi.
i. IPDR 2023, the 3-day annual apex-level regional strategic dialogue of the Indian Navy, was held
from 15th to 17th November 2023.
ii. During IPRD-2023, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance, released an edited
volume titled “Maritime Perspectives: Maritime Security Dynamics in the Indo-Pacific: Strategies and
Trends”.

3. Which of the following personalities have compiled and edited the book, “Snakes of
Himachal Pradesh” that was released by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister (CM) of
Himachal Pradesh (HP)?
1) DD Bisht & Baldev Dogra
2) Anita Sharma & Rakhi Sharma
3) Omesh Kumar Bharti & DD Bisht
4) Rakhi Sharma & Baldev Dogra
5) Anita Sharma & Omesh Kumar Bharti
Answer- 3) Omesh Kumar Bharti & DD Bisht
Explanation:
Chief Minister (CM) of Himachal Pradesh (HP) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu released a book titled
“Snakes of Himachal Pradesh” which provides comprehensive information about the diverse snake
species (venomous and non-venomous) found in the state of HP.
i. The book was compiled and edited by Omesh Kumar Bharti and DD Bisht, the principals of the
State Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Shimla, HP.
ii. The book was published with funding from the National Health Mission (NHM) in Himachal
Pradesh.
Note- Omesh Kumar Bharti received Padma Shri (the fourth highest civilian award) in 2019 in the
field of Medicine.
4. Which of the following personalities has/ have authored the book, ‘Mapping of the Archives
in India’ released by the Kalanidhi division of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts
(IGNCA) in November 2023?
1) Gopal Jayaraman and Ramesh Chandra Gaur
2) Nirmala Sharma and Ram Bahadur Rai
3) Ramesh Chandra Gaur and Vismay Basu
4) Gopal Jayaraman and Ram Bahadur Rai
5) Vismay Basu and Nirmala Sharma
Answer- 3) Ramesh Chandra Gaur and Vismay Basu
Explanation:
On November 23, 2023, Kalanidhi division of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)
launched the book titled ‘Mapping of the Archives in India’, authored by Prof. Ramesh Chandra Gaur
and Vismay Basu, in an event held in New Delhi, Delhi.
i. The book was published by IGNCA and with the support of United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) New Delhi.
ii. During the event, a Descriptive e- Catalogue of ‘Aagam- Tantra- Mantr- Yantra, Khand- 3, Bhag – 1-
5’ was also launched.
iii. The book launch session was chaired by Ram Bahadur Rai , President, IGNCA Trust.
iv. Satyananda Mishra, Chief Information Commissioner of India and Mr. Hezekiel Dlamini, Advisor
Communication and Information for South Asia UNESCO, New Delhi Office were the guests of honour
of the event.

5. Who authored the book, “Thread by Thread: The S.Kumar’s Story” that was released by the
Former Indian Cricketer, Kapil Dev in November 2023?
1) Meena Kandasamy
2) Avalok Langer
3) Meghna Pant
4) Palash Krishna Mehrotra
5) Sathya Saran
Answer- 5) Sathya Saran
Explanation:
Former Indian Cricketer Kapil Dev released the book titled “Thread by Thread: The S.Kumar’s
Story” authored by Sathya Saran, a distinguished journalist at The Palace Halls, NSCI, Mumbai,
Maharashtra. The book was published by Penguin Random House.
i. The book details the life of Shambhu Kumar Kasliwal, co-founder of the S Kumars Group, the fabric
of India and one of the most enduring brands in India since 1948. The group is named after
Shambhukumar.
ii. Sathya Saran worked as a Consulting Editor with the publisher HarperCollins India and is currently
a Consulting Editor with Penguin Random House.
6. Who authored the book, ‘Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers’ a biography of Pranab
Mukherjee, former (13th) President of India?
1) Abhijit Mukherjee
2) Shovana Narayan
3) Suvra Mukherjee
4) Rani Karnaa
5) Sharmishtha Mukherjee
Answer- 5) Sharmishtha Mukherjee
Explanation:
A book titled “Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers”, a biography of Pranab Mukherjee,
former (13th) President of India, penned by his daughter Sharmishtha Mukherjee.
• The book, published by Rupa Publications India, is set to be released on 11th December 2023,
the 88th birth anniversary of Pranab Mukherjee.
• The book sums up the life of Pranab Mukherjee starting from a small village in West Bengal to
his rise to the President office.
• Sharmishtha Mukherjee, a noted kathak dancer and choreographer, is a member of Indian
National Congress(INC).
Note- Pranab Mukherjee served as the President of India from 2012 to 2017. The Government of India
has honoured him with Padma Vibhushan in 2008 and Bharat Ratna in 2019 in the field of Public
Affairs. He passed away at the age of 84 in September 2020.

OBITUARY
1. Bangladeshi-British Climate scientist & Director of the International Centre for Climate
Change and Development (ICCCAD), __________ passed away in October 2023.
1) Jagdish Shukla
2) Nir Shaviv
3) Svante Arrhenius
4) Pancheti Koteswaram
5) Saleemul Huq
Answer- 5) Saleemul Huq
Explanation:
Bangladeshi-British Climate scientist Saleemul Huq passed away at the age of 71 in Dhaka,
Bangladesh. He was born in Karachi, Pakistan on 2nd October 1952.
i. Saleemul Huq is the Director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development
(ICCCAD) in Bangladesh.
ii. Saleemul Huq moved to Britain in the 1970s and received a doctorate in botany in 1978 from
Imperial College London in the United Kingdom(UK).
iii. He works as a Professor at the Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) as well as Associate of the
International Institute on Environment and Development (IIED) in the UK.
iv. Queen Elizabeth II bestowed him with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2022 New Year
Honours for services to combating international climate change.
2. Padma Shri Awardee Leela Omchery, a musicologist, and writer passed away in November
2023.
In which year did he receive the Padma Shri Award in the field of Art?
1) 2009
2) 2012
3) 2021
4) 2010
5) 2006
Answer- 1) 2009
Explanation:
Padma Shri Leela Omchery, a renowned musician, musicologist, and writer passed away in New
Delhi, Delhi at the age of 94. She was born on May 31 1929 at Thiruvattar in the princely state of
Travancore, Kanyakumari (now in Tamil Nadu).
i. She served as a professor at Kamukara School of Music, Dance, and Research Studies,
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala). She was also a professor and principal of Trikala Gurukulam in New
Delhi.
ii. She was the president of Dakshina Bharati (South Indian Women’s Organisation), and vice-
president of Swaralaya, New Delhi.
iii. She was awarded the Padma Shri (2009) in the Art Field; and the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka
Akademi award (1991).

3. In November 2023, Dhruba Narayan Ghosh (DN Ghosh), former Chairman (12th) of
____________ (Bank) , passed away.
1) Punjab National Bank
2) Indian Bank
4) Bank of Baroda
5) Bank of India
Answer- 3) State Bank of India
Explanation:
Dhruba Narayan Ghosh (DN Ghosh), former Chairman (12th) of the State Bank of India (SBI) and
Chairman Emeritus of ICRA Limited, passed away at the age of 95 in Kolkata, West Bengal. He was
born on 6 August 1928 in Cooch Behar (West Bengal).
• He served as Chairman of SBI from 1985 to 1989; Philips India Limited from 1989-99; Larsen
& Toubro(L&T) from 1991-92.
• He held different positions in the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Steel & Mines, and Ministry of
Defence.
4. In November 2023, Subrata Roy, the Founder and Chairman of ___________ (company), passed
away.
1) Essar Group
2) Jaiprakash Associates Limited
3) Hinduja Group
4) Shapoorji Pallonji Group
5) Sahara India Pariwar
Answer- 5) Sahara India Pariwar
Explanation:
Subrata Roy, the Founder and Chairman of Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)-based Sahara India Pariwar,
passed away at the age of 75 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was born on June 10, 1948, in Araria, Bihar.
He was popularly known as ‘Saharasri‘.
i. In 1976, Subrata Roy took charge of Sahara Finance, a struggling chit-fund company. In 1978, Sahara
Finance was evolved into Sahara India Pariwar.
ii. In 2004,Time Magazine named Sahara Group as the 2nd largest employer in India after the Indian
Railways.
• Under his leadership, Sahara sponsored the Indian cricket and hockey teams and owned a
Formula One(F1) racing team.
iii. Books: Shanti, Sukh: Santushti, Essays on peace of mind and happy living (1994); Life Mantras
(2016); Think With Me (2016).
5. Padma Vibhushan Awardee Prithvi Raj Singh (PRS) Oberoi, the doyen of Indian hospitality
passed away in November 2023.
In which field did he receive the Padma Vibhushan award in the year of 2008?
1) Medicine
2) Social Work
3) Trade and Industry
4) Literature and Education

5) Public Affairs
Answer- 3) Trade and Industry
Explanation:
Padma Vibhushan Awardee Prithvi Raj Singh (PRS) Oberoi, Chairman Emeritus of The Oberoi
Group, passed away at the age of 94. He was born in New Delhi, Delhi on 3rd February 1929.
• He was widely known as the ‘doyen of Indian hospitality’.
i. PRS Oberoi, popularly known as “Biki”, served as the Executive Chairman of EIH Limited, which is
the flagship company of the Oberoi Group, one of India’s largest luxury hotel chains. ii.He also served
as the Chairman of Oberoi Hotels, the major shareholder of EIH Limited.
ii. The government of India honoured him with the Padma Vibhushan India’s second highest civilian
honour, for Trade and Industry in 2008.
Note- The Oberoi group was founded in 1934 by Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi, father of PRS
Oberoi.
6. In November 2023, Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya, former Governor of __________ (state)

in the period of July 2014 – July 2019, passed away.
1) Meghalaya
2) Nagaland
3) Sikkim
4) Odisha
5) West Bengal
Answer- 2) Nagaland
Explanation:
Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya (PB Acharya or PB), former Governor of Nagaland(July 2014 –
July 2019) and Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra, at
the age of 92. He was born on 8th October 1931, in Udupi, Karnataka.
Note- While serving as the governor of Nagaland, he has also held the additional charge as the
governor of Tripura(2014-2015), Assam(2014-2016), Manipur (2019) and Arunachal Pradesh(2017).
• He served as All India National Secretary of the BJP and in-charge of North Eastern States from
1995-2002.
• He founded Indian National Fellowship Centre (INFC), a Non-Government Organisation (NGO)
in 1975, to strengthen brotherhood/fellowship and Nationalism in the NorthEast region.
7. The renowned art historian and Padma Awardee Brijinder Nath Goswamy passed away in
November 2023.
In which field did he receive the Padma Bhushan Award in 2008?
1) Public Affairs
2) Literature and Education
3) Art
4) Social Work
5) Medicine
Answer- 2) Literature and Education

Explanation:
The renowned art historian and Padma Awardee Brijinder Nath Goswamy passed away in
Chandigarh at the age of 90. He was born on 15th August 1933 in Sargodha(now in Punjab province
of Pakistan).
i. He was the recipient of the Padma Shri Award (1998) and the Padma Bhushan Award (2008) in
the field of Literature and Education.
ii. He has written more than 26 books on the subjects of Pahari paintings, miniature paintings, court
painters, and masters of Indian paintings.
iii. Pahari paintings means a painting from the ‘hilly’ regions, (pahar means hill), it is from the lower
Himalayan hill kingdoms and the plains of Punjab, covering kingdoms include Nurpur, Kangra, and
Guler, etc.
8. Booker Prize-winning British Author Dame Antonia Susan Byatt passed away in November
2023.
Her book, ___________ won the Booker Prize for Fiction In 1990.
1) The Children’s Book
2) The Djinn in the Nightingale’s Eye
3) Shadow of a Sun
4) Possession: A Romance
5) Elementals: Stories of Fire and Ice
Answer- 4) Possession: A Romance
Explanation:
Booker Prize-winning British Author, Critic, and Poet Dame Antonia Susan Byatt, known most
commonly as AS Byatt, passed away at the age of 87 in London, the United Kingdom (UK). She was
born on August 24, 1936, in Yorkshire, England, UK.
• The award-winning sequel of the quartet, Still Life (1985), earned the prestigious
PEN/Macmillan Silver Pen Award in 1986, followed by Babel Tower (1996), and the 4th (and
final) novel in the quartet is A Whistling Woman (2002).
• Her most successful book, Possession: A Romance (1990), won the Booker Prize for Fiction
in 1990 and the Irish Times International Fiction Prize.
• She was honoured as the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1990 and the
Damehood of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1999.
• Her book, The Children’s Book (2009), was shortlisted for the 2009 Man Booker Prize for
Fiction and won the 2010 James Tait Black Memorial Prize (for fiction).
9. In November 2023, ___________, the former (18th) Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI),
passed away.
1) Subrahmanyam Venkitaramanan
2) Y. V. Reddy
3) Bimal Jalan
4) R. N. Malhotra
5) Amitav Ghosh
Answer- 1) Subrahmanyam Venkitaramanan

Explanation:
Subrahmanyam Venkitaramanan or S. Venkitaramanan, the former (18th) Governor of the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) passed away at the age of 92 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He was born on
28 January 1931 in Nagercoil, Kanyakumari district in Tamil Nadu.
• He served as the 18th Governor of RBI from December 1990 to December 1992.
• After his retirement, he remained active as the Chairman of Ashok Leyland Investment
Services, New Tirupur Area Development Corporation, and Ashok Leyland Finance.
• Additionally, he has also served on the boards of Reliance Industries Limited(RIL), Society for
Promotion of IT in Chandigarh (SPIC), Piramal Healthcare, Tamil Nadu Water Investment Co.,
and HDFC.
10. In November 2023, Padma Awardee and an eminent vitreoretinal surgeon, ____________, the
founder of Sankara Nethralaya Academy, passed away.
1) SS Badrinath
2) Anuja R Singh
3) Smita Praveen
4) Atheeshwar Das
5) Sajeev Cherian
Answer- 1) SS Badrinath
Explanation:
Padma Awardee and an eminent vitreoretinal surgeon, Sengamedu Srinivasa (SS) Badrinath, the
founder of Sankara Nethralaya Academy, passed away at the age of 83 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He
was born on 24th February 1940 in Triplicane, Madras Presidency (Now Chennai, TN).
i. In 2010, He became the 1st Indian to receive the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) award.
ii. In 1978, he founded Sankara Nethralaya Academy, a unit of the Medical Research Foundation. He
also served as President & Chairman Emeritus of the Medical Research Foundation.
iii. The Government of India honoured him with Padma Shri, the 4th highest civilian award in 1983
and Padma Bhushan, the 3rd highest civilian award in 1999 for his contribution to the field of
Medicine.
11. In November 2023, __________________, Mr India title holder in 1970 and bodybuilder of
Manipur passed away.
1) Bharat Bhushan
2) Neil Aryan Thakur
3) Ashish Malhan
4) Nongthombam Maipak
5) Kramik Yadav
Answer- 4) Nongthombam Maipak
Explanation:
Nongthombam Maipak, former Mr India title holder and veteran bodybuilder of Manipur passed
away in Imphal, Manipur at the age of 88. He was born on June 12, 1935 at Uripok Sorbon Thingel
Sinam Leikai in Imphal West District, Manipur.
i. He was popularly known as Mister Maipak and ‘Son of Manipur’.
ii. He won the Mr. India title in 1970 and then represented India in the Mr. Universe competition
held from September 25-26, 1971 in Paris, France.

iii. He was honoured with the ‘Best Indian Style Mythological Pose,’ in the 1971 Mr. Universe
competition and secured the 10th position out of 72 contestants.
12. In November 2023, Justice ___________, 1st woman Judge of the Supreme Court of India and
former Governor of Tamil Nadu (TN) passed away.
1) Sujata Manohar
2) Gyan Sudha Misra
3) Ruma Pal
4) Ranjana Desai
5) M Fathima Beevi
Answer- 5) M Fathima Beevi
Explanation:
Justice M Fathima Beevi, India’s 1st woman Judge of the Supreme Court of India and former
Governor of Tamil Nadu(TN) passed away at the age of 96 in Kollam, Kerala. She was born in April
1927 in Pathanamthitta, Kerala.
• She was the 1st Muslim woman judge to be appointed to any higher judiciary.
• She was also the 1st woman to become a Supreme Court Justice in an Asian country.
• She became the Judge of Supreme Court of India in 1989 and retired from the post in 1992.
i. Fathima Beevi started her career in 1950 as an advocate in Kerala. She topped the Bar Council exam
and became the first woman to receive a Bar Council gold medal.
ii. In 1958, She was appointed as Munsiff in the Kerala Sub-ordinate Judicial Services and promoted as
the Sub-ordinate Judge in 1968.
• She served as the Governor of TN from 1997 to 2002. During her tenure as Governor of TN, she
served as the Chancellor of Madras University.
iii. She was also awarded the Bharat Jyoti Award and the US-India Business Council (USIBC) LifeTime
Achievement Award.
13. In November 2023, a renowned Indian Violinist and Carnatic Musician, _________ passed
away.
1) Vittal Ramamurthy
2) Ragini Shankar
3) Ambi Subramaniam
4) B Sasikumar
5) Sabareesh Prabhaker
Answer- 4) B Sasikumar
Explanation:
B Sasikumar, a renowned Indian Violinist and Carnatic Musician from Kerala passed away at the
age of 74 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He was born on 27 April 1949 in Thiruvalla, Kerala.
• He has worked as a music teacher in Swati Tirunal College of Music, Thiruvananthapuram and
joined Thiruvananthapuram Akashvani All India Radio (AIR) as a staff artiste (Violin) in 1971.
He retired in 2008.
i. He has produced many musical features for AIR such as “Nadopasana”, “Sapthaswarangalil” and
“Layicha Mahaanubhaavan”.
ii. His notable works include “Navavarana Krithimahima”, a 10-episode series on Navavarana Krithis.
He also directed Adhyathma Ramayanam’s recital in 2001.

iii. He was awarded the Violon Samrat Award from Kuwait (2011); the Kendra Sangeet Natak
Akademi Award (2008); Kerala Sangeetha Natak Academy Fellowship (2002).
14. Renowned Gujarati photojournalist and Padma Shri Awardee Zaverilal Dalpatram Mehta
passed away in November 2023.
In which year did he receive the Padma Shri Award in the field of Literature and Education?
1) 2018
2) 2020
3) 2017
4) 2019
5) 2021
Answer- 1) 2018
Explanation:
Renowned Gujarati photojournalist and Padma Shri Awardee Zaverilal Dalpatram Mehta passed
away at the age of 97 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He was born on 9th July 1928 in Halvad, Gujarat.
i. In 2018, he was honoured with Padma Shri (literature and education), India’s fourth-highest
civilian award.
ii. He was known for documenting the tenures of 13 chief ministers and capturing incidents like the
2001 earthquake and the 1998 Kutch cyclone.
iii. In 2008, He published the book titled “Flashback”, featuring the collection of his photographs and
articles.
15. In November 2023, ____________, a Canadian TV producer and LifeTime Achievement Emmy
Award (2018) passed away.
1) John Blanchar
2) Marty Krofft
3) Simon Barry
4) Louise Clark
5) Chris Haddock
Answer- 2) Marty Krofft
Explanation:
Marty Krofft, a Canadian TV producer and puppeteer known for imaginative children’s shows such as
‘HR Pufnstuf’ and ‘Land of the Lost,’ passed away in California, the United States of America (USA) at
the age of 86.
i. He was most known for co-creating the primetime children’s TV series of the 1970s and 1980s with
his elder brother Sid Krofft.
ii. The Krofft brothers made their TV debut in 1969 with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC)’s
“H.R. Pufnstuf,” followed by “The Bugaloos” (NBC, 1970) and “Lidsville” (American Broadcasting
Company, 1971).
iii. They received the LifeTime Achievement Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television
Arts & Sciences in 2018.
iv. The brothers received a star on the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2020 in recognition
of their “Golden Anniversary.”

16. In November 2023, C K Gopinathan, Director on the board of ______________ (Bank), passed
away.
1) Federal Bank
4) Dhanlaxmi Bank
5) Karnataka Bank
Answer- 4) Dhanlaxmi Bank
Explanation:
C K Gopinathan, Director on the board of Thrissur (Kerala)-based Dhanlaxmi Bank, passed away.
He has more than 25 years of experience in the banking/finance sectors and has been on the Board of
the Dhanlaxmi Bank since 2016.
i. He was a major shareholder in the bank, and as of September 2023, he held a 7.5% stake in the bank,
with permission to hold up to 9.99%.
IMPORTANT DAYS
1. When was the National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2023 observed across the globe to
commemorate the 148th birth anniversary of “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel?
1) 29th October 2023
2) 31st October 2023
Answer- 2) 31st October 2023
Explanation:
National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is annually observed across India on 31 October to
commemorate the birth anniversary of the “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31 October
1875), who was dubbed “Sardar” (chief) for his leadership skills.
• He was the first Deputy Prime Minister(Dy PM) and Home Minister of Independent India from
1947 to 1950.
• 31st October 2023 marks the 148th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• The first National Unity Day was observed on 31 October 2014.
i. As part of Prasar Bharati’s celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
on 31st October 2023.
ii. In 2023, Sardar Patel Memorial Lecture organised by Akashvani was delivered by Former President
Ram Nath Kovind.
2. The _______ World Cities Day (WCD) was observed across the globe by the United Nations (UN)
on 31st October 2023 with the theme of “Financing sustainable urban future for all”.
1) 10th
2) 8th
3) 6th
4) 9th

5) 12th
Answer- 1) 10th
Explanation:
The 10th World Cities Day (WCD) was observed across the globe by the United Nations (UN) on 31st
October 2023 with the theme of “Financing sustainable urban future for all”
i. The theme aims to explore ways to use the potential of transformative investment in urban planning
and achieve adequate fiscal decentralization.
ii. The Global Observance of WCD 2023 was held at the Municipality of Üsküdar in Istanbul, Republic
of Türkiye.
iii. The event was held under the support and guidance of the First Lady of Türkiye, Her
Excellency(HE) Emine Erdoğan.
• The 1st WCD was observed on 31st October 2014, in Shanghai, the People’s Republic of China.
3. When was the World Savings Day (WSD)/World Thrift Day, 2023 observed across the globe
with the theme of Conquer your Tomorrow?
Answer- 4) 31st October 2023
Explanation:
World Savings Day (WSD), also known as World Thrift Day, 2023 was observed across the globe on
31st October 2023 with the theme of “Conquer your Tomorrow” through various saving methods.
i. India observes World Savings Day on 30th October, since 31st October marks the death anniversary
of Indira Gandhi, former(3rd) Prime Minister of India. Indira Gandhi was assassinated on 31st October
1984.
ii. Every year the theme is set by the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute(WSBI). The first WSD
was observed on 31 October 1924.
4. What was the theme of World Occupational Therapy (OT) Day 2023 that was observed
across the globe on 27th October 2023?
1) Unity through Community
2) Belong. Be You
3) Opportunity + Choice = Justice
4) Reimagine Doing
5) Improving world health and wellbeing
Answer- 1) Unity through Community
Explanation:
World Occupational Therapy (OT) Day 2023 observed across the globe on 27th October 2023 with
the theme of “Unity through Community”.
i. The first World OT Day was celebrated in 2010 by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists
(WFTO), an organisation of national and regional occupational therapy associations.
ii. The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of
Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) observed World OT Day by conducting activities including

Awareness Programmes, National Level webinars, National Level Programme, poster making, and
interviews on All India Radio at more than 30 places across India.
5. When was World Vegan Day 2023 observed across the globe?
2) 1st November 2023
Answer- 2) 1st November 2023
Explanation:
World Vegan Day 2023 was observed across the globe on 1st November 2023 to spread awareness
among people about the benefits of a vegan diet on health and well-being.
i. The 1st World Vegan Day was observed on 1 November 1994.
ii. The term “vegan” was coined by Donald Watson, an English animal rights activist and Co-founder of
the Vegan Society in 1994.
6. When was the United Nations (UN) International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against
Journalists (IDEI) observed across the globe?
5) 2nd November 2023
Answer- 5) 2nd November 2023
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI)
2023 was observed across the globe on 2nd November 2023 to pay tribute to journalists killed in
the line of duty, and to raise awareness about the dangers of impunity for crimes committed against
journalists.
• The first-ever IDEI was observed on 2 November 2014.
i. The 2023 observance of IDEI and its events was based on the concept note, “Violence against
journalists, the integrity of elections, and the role of public leadership.”
ii. In 2023, the main commemoration of IDEI took place on 2 -3 November 2023 at the headquarters
of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington D.C. the United States of America (USA).
7. When was the International Day for Biosphere Reserve (BR) 2023 observed across the globe
by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)?
2) 3rd November 2023
4) 4th November 2023
Answer- 2) 3rd November 2023

Explanation:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s International Day
for Biosphere Reserve (BR) or World Biosphere Reserve Day is annually observed across the globe
on 3 November to raise awareness of the importance of biosphere reserves and to promote their
conservation and sustainable use.
• The day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to safeguard the delicate balance between
humans and the environment.
i. 3 November 2023 marks the 2nd observance of International Day for BR.
ii. The first-ever International Day for BR was observed on 3 November 2022.
Note- In India, at present there are 18 notified BRs spanning 60,000 square kilometres (sq km).
8. When was the United Nations (UN) World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) 2023 observed
across the globe with the theme of “Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future”?
Answer- 2) 5th November 2023
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) 2023 was observed across the
globe on 5th November 2023 with the theme of “Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future”.
i. The UN Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) facilitates the observance of World Tsunami Awareness
Day in collaboration with the rest of the UN system.
• The first WTAD was observed on 5 November 2016.
• The designation of 5 November as WTAD comes from the “Inamura-no-hi” (The fire of rice
sheaves) an anecdote about a Japanese village leader, Goryo Hamaguchi, who saved the lives of
people in his village by setting fire to sheaves of rice on 5th November 1854.
• SFDRR is a 15-year international agreement adopted at the 3rd UN World Conference on
Disaster Risk Reduction, held from 14 to 18 March 2015 in Sendai, Miyagi, Japan.
9. When was the United Nations (UN) International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the
Environment in War and Armed Conflict 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN)’s International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in
War and Armed Conflict is annually observed across the globe on 6th November to raise awareness
about the consequences that war and conflict have on the environment.
• 6th November 2023 marks the observance of the 22nd International Day for Preventing
the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict.

• The first International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and
Armed Conflict was observed on 6th November 2002.
• According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in the past 60 years, at least
40% of all internal conflicts have been linked to the exploitation of natural resources.
10. When was National Cancer Awareness Day (NCAD) 2023 observed across India?
Explanation:
National Cancer Awareness Day (NCAD) 2023 observed across India on 7th November 2023 to raise
awareness about the prevention, detection, and treatment of various types of cancer.
• NCAD aims to educate the public about early detection, healthy lifestyle choices, and access to
quality cancer care.
• According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Cancer is the second leading cause of
death worldwide, representing nearly 1 in 6 deaths globally.
• A lavender ribbon is usually a sign of support for those living with all types of cancer.
i. The first NCAD was observed on 7 November 2014.
11. The 135th birth anniversary of the Nobel Prize Winner & Bharat Ratna awardee,
Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (CV Raman) was observed on ____________.
Explanation:
The birth anniversary of the Nobel Prize Winner & Bharat Ratna awardee, Chandrasekhara Venkata
Raman (CV Raman) is annually observed on 7th November.
• 7th November 2023 marks the 135th birth anniversary of CV Raman.
• He is an Indian Physicist well known for his discovery of the Raman effect.
i. The Nobel Prize in Physics 1930 was awarded to CV Raman for his work on the scattering of light.
• The discovery of the effect was named after him, the Raman Effect.
• He discovered the Raman Effect on 28th February 1928.
• He was the first Indian, Asian, and non-white person to win a Nobel Prize for the sciences.
ii. In 1954, CV Raman was awarded the inaugural Bharat Ratna for his outstanding service to the
country in the field of physics.
• Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan and Chakravarti Rajagopalachari also received the award along with
him.

12. When was the International Day of Radiology (IDoR) 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
International Day of Radiology (IDoR) or World Radiography Day is annually observed across the
globe on 8 November to raise awareness about the contribution of radiology towards safe patient
care, and to improve public understanding of the vital role radiologists and radiographers play in the
healthcare continuum.
• IDoR was created to mark the anniversary of the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad
Röntgen, a German physicist & the winner of the 1st Nobel Prize in Physics (1901), in 1895.
• 8th November 2023 marks the observance of the 12th International Day of Radiology(IDoR).
i. According to the European Society of Radiology (ESR), the IDOR 2023 took place under a persistent
theme, “Radiologists and Radiographers Supporting Patients”.
ii. According to the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT),
the 2023 theme of IDoR is, “Celebrating Patient Safety“.
13. When was World Urbanism Day(WUD) 2023 observed across the globe with the theme of
“Learn Globally, Apply Locally”?
Explanation:
World Urbanism Day(WUD), also known as World Town Planning Day (WTPD) 2023 was observed
across the globe on 8th November 2023 with the theme of “Learn Globally, Apply Locally”
• The day is promoted by the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP).
• The Institute of Town Planner, India , established in 1951 organizes the World Town Planning
Day in India.
• The annual ISOCARP World Planning Congress is the main activity of ISOCARP which focuses
on a planning theme of foremost international interest.
• Urban Economy Forum (UEF) and ISOCARP will jointly organise the 5th Urban Economy
Forum (UEF5) and 59th ISOCARP World Planning Congress (WPC59) from 10th November to
13th November 2023
14. When was the National Legal Services Day (NLSD) 2023 observed across India?


Explanation:
National Legal Services Day(NLSD) is annually observed across India on 9th of November.
• 9th November 2023 marks the 29th National Legal Services Day with the theme of ‘Access to
Justice for All: Empowering the Marginalised through Legal Awareness’.
• The theme emphasizes the importance of providing equal access to legal resources and
knowledge, especially to those who are underprivileged and marginalized.
• The first ever NLSD was celebrated on 09th November 1995.
• NALSA was constituted on 5th December, 1995 for making legal services available under the
National Legal Services Act.
15. The World Quality Week (WQW) 2023 is being observed across the globe from 6th to 10th
November 2023 with the theme of _____________.
1) 100 Years of Quality
2) Quality: realising your competitive potential
3) Sustainability: improving our products, people and planet.
4) Quality conscience: Doing the right thing
5) Creating Customer Value
Answer- 2) Quality: realising your competitive potential
Explanation:
World Quality Week (WQW) is annually observed across the globe on the 2nd week of November to
recognise the achievements of quality professionals, reflect on the successes and challenges of the
past year, and share best practices for ensuring quality in all areas of lives.
• WQW 2023 is observed from 6 to 10 November 2023 with the theme of “Quality: realising
your competitive potential“.
• WQW is a flagship brand awareness campaign of the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI), to
celebrate the quality management profession globally.
• The Chartered Quality Institute (CQI), a business entity in London, the United Kingdom (UK),
observes the 2nd Thursday of November every year as World Quality Day.
• In 2021, the CQI expanded the one-day event of quality management “World Quality Day” into
a week-long celebration “World Quality Week”.
• Since 2021, CQI has been celebrating WQW during the 2nd week of November.
Note: The CQI is also in charge of the International Register of Certified Auditors (IRCA).
16. When was the National Ayurveda Day 2023 observed across India?
Explanation:
National Ayurveda Day is annually observed across India aimed at generating awareness among
people about health issues as well as the potential role of Ayurveda in their prevention and treatment.

• The day is observed on Dhanwantri Jayanthi or Dhanteras, the festival honouring Dhanvantari,
the Hindu God of Ayurveda.
• The day is observed on the 13th day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin as per the
Hindu calendar.
i. The National Ayurveda Day 2023 falls on 10th November 2023 and marks the observance of the
8th National Ayurveda Day.
• The focal theme for Ayurveda Day 2023 is, "Ayurveda for One Health" with the tagline
‘Ayurveda for everyone on every day’ (Har din har kisi ke liye Ayurveda) focusing on the
human-animal-plant-environment interface.
ii. The first ever National Ayurveda Day was observed in India on the 28th October 2016.
• In 2023, National Ayurveda Day was set to be celebrated on a global scale across 100 countries,
advocating the global campaign of ‘Ayurveda for One Health’.
• Union Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Union Minister of State for Ayush, Munjpara
Mahendrabhai, took part in a conference held in the context of the 8th National Ayurveda Day.
• Along with the conference, the 'Ayurveda Mahaparva' expo and review meeting of the National
Ayush Mission (NAM) of 8 states was also organized.
• The main function of the 8th Ayurveda Day was held at Indradhanush Auditorium, Panchkula
on the occasion of Dhanvantari Day (10 November 2023).
17. What was the theme of World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 that was
observed across the globe on 10th November 2023?
1) Science, a Human Right
2) Building Climate-Ready Communities
3) Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development
4) Building Trust In Science
5) Open Science, leaving no one behind
Answer- 4) Building Trust In Science
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN)’s World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed annually across
the globe on November 10 to highlight the important role of science in society and the need to engage
the general people in discussions about rising scientific concerns.
i. 10th November 2023 marks the observance of the 22nd edition of World Science Day for Peace
and Development with the theme of ‘Building Trust In Science’
ii. The first-ever World Science Day for Peace and Development was observed on 10th November
2002.
iii. Ana María Cetto, a Mexican physicist, has been awarded the 2023 UNESCO–Kalinga Prize for the
Popularization of Science for her dedication to making scientific knowledge more accessible to the
public.
• She will receive the prize on 13 November 2023 at UNESCO headquarters.
• In 1993, the UNESCO Science Report was launched under the name of World Science Report. It
has issued 7 reports in the series since then.
• The science report is published every 5 years by UNESCO.

18. When was National Education Day 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
National Education Day is annually observed across India on 11 November to mark the birth
anniversary of ‘Bharat Ratna’ Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first education minister of independent
India.
• His immense contribution to the field of education in India is recognised by celebrating his
birthday as National Education Day across India.
• This day serves to raise awareness about the fundamental right to education and underscore
its supreme importance.
i. 11th November 2023 marks the 135th birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who was
born on 11 November 1888, in Mecca (Saudi Arabia).
ii. The first-ever National Education Day was observed on 11 November 2008.
19. When was the Public Service Broadcasting Day/Jan Prasaran Diwas 2023 observed across
India?
Explanation:
Public Service Broadcasting Day or Jan Prasaran Diwas is annually observed across India on 12
November to commemorate the first and only visit of Mahatma Gandhi to the studio of the then All
India Radio (AIR) (now Akashvani ) in Delhi, in 1947.
• 2023 Public Service Broadcasting Day or Jan Prasaran Diwas observed on 12th November
2023.
i. On 17th November 1947, Mahatma Gandhi visited the AIR Studios at Broadcasting House, New
Delhi, Delhi to address the refugees (from Pakistan) who were camped in Kurukshetra, Haryana
following the partition.
ii. To commemorate 50 years of this visit of Mahatma Gandhi to AIR, a function was organised at AIR
premises on 12th November 1997.
iii. Later in 2001, the day, “12th November”, was declared Public Service Broadcasting Day.
20. When was the World Usability Day (WUD) 2023 observed across the globe with the theme
of Collaboration and Cooperation?


Explanation:
World Usability Day (WUD), or Make Things Easier Day is annually observed across the globe on the
2nd Thursday of November to promote the principles of usability, accessibility, and user experience in
design.
• WUD 2023 falls on 9th November 2023 with the theme of “Collaboration and Cooperation“.
• The first WUD was observed on 10 November 2005.
i. WUI, a UN initiative, is an extension of WUD that is designed to be self-sustaining, aims to make
great design inclusive and usable for everyone, aligning with the international agenda for
sustainability.
ii. The WUI DC is in collaboration with the HCI International (HCII) conference, sponsors 3 awards:
• Gold USD 1250;
• Silver USD 1000; and
• Bronze USD 750.
iii. The WUI DC Awards winners will be invited with complimentary registration, to present their
innovative, impactful design work in a special session during the 2024 HCII Conference from 29 June
to 4 July 2024 in Washington, the United States of America (USA).
• Winners- Gold: Live.Lingo, Athena Vo (Boston College, USA)
• Silver: MCCD Form, Nomeshwari Reddy Thummala (National Institute of Design, Bengaluru
(Karnataka), India)
• There is no Bronze Award.
21. What was the theme of World Pneumonia Day 2023 that was observed across the globe on
12th November 2023?
1) Healthy lungs for all
2) Let's increase access to medical oxygen
3) Championing the fight against pneumonia
4) Pneumonia Affects Everyone
5) Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Track
Answer- 5) Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Track
Explanation:
World Pneumonia Day is annually observed across the globe on November 12 to raise awareness and
educate people about Pneumonia disease, the world’s most prominent infectious death of children
under the age of 5.
i. 12th November 2023 marks the observance of 15th World Pneumonia Day with the theme of
“Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Track”.
ii. The 1st World Pneumonia Day was observed on 12th November 2009.
22. When was the United Nations (UN) World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2023 observed across the
globe with the theme of Access to Diabetes Care?


Explanation:
The United Nations (UN)’s World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2023 was observed across the globe on 14th
November 2023 to raise awareness about the impact of diabetes on the health of people.
i. The theme for WDD 2021-23 is “Access to Diabetes Care“ and the slogan for the 2023 campaign is:
“Know your risk, Know your response.”
ii. The first-ever UN-recognised WDD was observed on 14 November 2007.
iii. 14 November marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Grant Banting, a Canadian medical scientist who
co-discovered insulin along with Charles Herbert Best, an American-Canadian medical scientist in
1922.
• Sir Frederick Grant Banting won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1923 for the
discovery of insulin; he shared the award with John James Rickard Macleod, a Scottish
physiologist.
23. What was the theme of World Kindness Day that was observed across the globe on 13th
November 2023?
1) Be Kind Wherever Possible
2) Nurturing Kindness
3) Empathy
4) The World We Make - Inspire Kindness
5) Give a Kind hug
Answer- 1) Be Kind Wherever Possible
Explanation:
World Kindness Day (WKD) is annually observed across the globe on November 13 to promote
kindness and inspire people to engage in at least one act of kindness that aspires to unify the world as
one.
• 13th November 2023 marks the observance of 26th World Kindness Day with the theme of
“Be Kind Wherever Possible”.
• The 1st World Kindness Day was observed on 13th November 1998.
24. The Children’s Day/Bal Divas 2023 was observed across India on 14th November 2023 to
mark the ________ birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
1) 120th
2) 134th
3) 129th
4) 130th
5) 128th
Answer- 2) 134th
Explanation:
Children’s Day also known as Bal Divas is annually observed across India on November 14 to honour
the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s 1st Prime Minister, who was known
for his love and affection for children.

• The day aims to emphasise the significance of nurturing and celebrating the vibrant spirit of
the younger generation.
• 14th November 2023 marks the 134th birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
i. In 1955, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, was awarded the Bharat Ratna by
then-President Rajendra Prasad.
ii. As a tribute to the memory of the late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his lifelong dedication
to the cause of world peace and international understanding, the Government of India instituted the
Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding in 1965.
25. When was the United Nations (UN) International Week of Science and Peace (IWOSP) 2023
observed across the globe?
1) 7th to 13th November 2023
3) 1st to 7th November 2023
Answer- 4) 6th to 12th November 2023
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) International Week of Science and Peace (IWOSP) is annually observed
across the globe during the week in which November 11th falls.
i. IWOSP 2023 is observed from 6th to 12th November 2023.
ii. The first International Week of Science and Peace was observed from 10th to 16th November 1986
as part of the observance of the International Year of Peace.
• However, the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/43/61 in
1988 and proclaimed that the International Week of Science and Peace will be observed
annually during the week in which November 11 falls.
iii. The first UN’s International Week of Science and Peace was observed in 1989.
26. What was the theme of National Newborn Week 2023 that was observed across India from
15th to 21st November 2023?
1) Home care of Newborn in Urban area
2) Safety, Quality and Nurturing care – Birth Right of Every Newborn
3) Ensuring quality health care for Newborn
4) Quality, Equity and Dignity for Every Newborn
5) Gender gap in Neonatal Survival-Time to Act
Answer- 2) Safety, Quality and Nurturing care – Birth Right of Every Newborn
Explanation:
National Newborn Week 2023 was observed across India from 15th to 21st November 2023 with
the theme (since 2021) of Safety, Quality and Nurturing care – Birth Right of Every Newborn.
• The observance also aims to highlight the importance of newborn care for child survival and
development. The annual observance in India is led by the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoHFW).
i. In 2000, at the request of the National Neonatology Forum (NNF), the Government of India agreed to
observe a National Newborn Week from 15th to 21st November each year.

ii. The first ever Newborn Week was launched by the then Prime Minister (PM) Late Atal Bihari
Vajpayee on 15th November 2000.
27. When was the United Nations (UN) International Day for Tolerance 2023 observed across
the globe?
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) International Day for Tolerance 2023 was observed across the globe on
16th November 2023 to promote and raise awareness of tolerance, respect, and understanding
among all the diverse cultures and communities across the globe.
• The day also highlights the negative effects of intolerance and promotes policies that ensure
equal rights and opportunities for all.
• In 1996, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/51/95
and proclaimed the 16 November of every year as the International Day for Tolerance.
• The first International Day for Tolerance was observed on 16 November 1997.
• The day commemorates adoption of the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance by the member
states of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on
November 16, 1995.
28. What was the theme of National Press Day 2023 that was observed across India on 16th
November 2023?
1) The Media's Role is Nation Building
2) Who is Not Afraid of the Media?
3) Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
4) Role of media during COVID-19
5) Media should guard against 'fake news
Answer- 3) Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
Explanation:
National Press Day 2023 was observed across India on 16th November 2023 with the theme of
“Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence”.
• The day was celebrated to commemorate the day on which the Press Council of India (PCI)
started its function as the moral watchdog to ensure that the press maintains high standards
and is not fettered by any form of influence or threats.
i. According to Reporters Without Borders (Reporters sans frontières – RSF)’s 21th World Press
Freedom Index (WPFI 2023), India is ranked 161st out of 180 countries with a score of 36.62.
• Norway topped the list (for the seventh consecutive year) with a score of 95.18, followed by
Ireland (2nd) and Denmark (3rd).
• PCI organised an event to celebrate National Press Day 2023 in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi,
Delhi.

• The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar graced the event as chief guest while Union
Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) and Minister of
States(MoS) L. Murugan, MIB were the Guests of Honour.
29. When was World Philosophy Day 2023 observed across the globe by the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)?
Explanation:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Philosophy
Day is annually observed across the globe on the 3rd Thursday of November to highlight the enduring
value of philosophy for the development of human thought, for each culture and each individual.
• World Philosophy Day 2023 falls on 16th November 2023.
• The observance of World Philosophy Day is annually led by UNESCO.
• The first ever World Philosophy Day was observed on 21st November 2002(3rd Thursday of
November 2002).
30. When was the National Epilepsy Day 2023 observed across India?
Explanation:
National Epilepsy Day 2023 was observed across India on 17th November 2023 to spread
awareness and educate people about Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent
seizures, and its impact on individuals, families, and communities who are affected by this disease.
• The day serves as a platform to eliminate myths and misconceptions surrounding epilepsy
while creating awareness about its symptoms and management.
• Purple is the colour of Epilepsy and the Symbol of Epilepsy is the Purple Ribbon. The Purple
Ribbon also represents Pancreatic cancer.
Note- Epilepsy is a chronic Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) of the brain that affects people of all
ages.
31. When was the International Students’ Day 2023 observed across the globe?


Explanation:
International Students’ Day is annually observed across the globe on November 17 to celebrate
multiculturalism, diversity, and teamwork among students. The day aims to guarantee that every kid
in the world has access to education.
• The observance marks the anniversary of the events held after the Nazi invasion of Charles
University in Prague(Czech Republic), in 1939.
• 17th November 2023 marks the observance 83rd International Students’ Day.
• The first-ever International Students’ Day was observed on 17th November 1941. It was
observed by the International Students’ Council in London, The United Kingdom(UK).
• The Velvet Revolution was ignited in Prague, by demonstrations commemorating the 50th
anniversary of International Students’ Day on 17th November 1989. The velvet revolution
ended more than 40 years of communist rule in Czechoslovakia and catalysed the process of
democratization in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
32. What was the theme of 6th National Naturopathy Day, observed across India on 18th
November 2023?
1) Naturopathy an Integrative Medicine
2) Poshan Aahar & Rog Mukt Bharath
3) Nutrition, Diet, and Disease-free India
4) Nurturing Vitality Through Naturopathy
5) Naturopathy for Holistic Health
Answer- 5) Naturopathy for Holistic Health
Explanation:
The 6th National Naturopathy Day 2023 observed across India on 18th November 2023 with the
theme of “Naturopathy for Holistic Health.”
i. The annual observance of the day is led by the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy,
Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), Government of India.
ii. The first-ever National Naturopathy Day was observed on November 18, 2018.
• It was on this day in 1945, when Mahatma Gandhi became lifetime Chairman of the All India
Nature Cure Foundation Trust and signed the deed to make the benefits of Nature Cure
available to all classes of people.
• Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), New Delhi (Delhi), the
National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) Pune (Maharashtra), and the University of Patanjali,
Haridwar (Uttarakhand) have jointly organised the 6th Naturopathy day celebration at
University of Patanjali on 18th & 19th November 2023.
• For the 2nd time, CCRYN has organised an International Conference on Naturopathy in
association with Patanjali Yogpeeth, NIN & World Naturopathic Federation (WNF).
33. When was World AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) Awareness Week (WAAW) 2023
observed across the globe with the theme of “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together”?
3) 17th to 23rd November 2023
4) 15th to 21st November 2023

5) 16th to 22nd November 2023

Explanation:
World AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) Awareness Week (WAAW), previously known as “World
Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2023 was celebrated across the globe from November
18th to 24th with the theme of “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together”.
• The day also promotes best practices among One Health stakeholders to reduce the emergence
and spread of drug-resistant infections.
i. WHO observed the first World Antibiotic Awareness Week from 16th to 22nd November 2015.
ii. In June 2023, the Quadripartite organizations: FAO, the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP), WHO, and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), announced the rebranding of
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week as World AMR Awareness Week.
• The acronym will remain “WAAW”, while all expansions of this acronym will now be re-
branded as “World AMR Awareness Week.”
34. When was the World Prematurity Day (WPD) 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
World Prematurity Day (WPD) 2023 was observed across the globe on 17th November 2023 with
the theme of “Small Actions, BIG IMPACT: Immediate Skin-to-Skin Care for Every Baby, Everywhere.”
• The International Prematurity Awareness Day was initiated on 17 November 2008, by the
European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) and partnering with the
European parent organisations.
• 17th November was declared as International Prematurity Awareness Day during the first
Parent Organisations Meeting in Rome, Italy.
• Since 2011, the day has been celebrated as World Prematurity Day .
• The Department of Maternal and Child Health of the Ministry of Health and the United Nations
Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Viet Nam, with the support of Kimberly-Clarke, hosted special events
in some provinces, including Lao Cai, Lai Chau, etc.
35. When was the United Nations (UN) World Day of Remembrance (WDoR) for Road Traffic
Victims 2023 observed across the globe with the theme of Justice?

Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) World Day of Remembrance (WDoR) for Road Traffic Victims is annually
observed across the globe on the 3rd Sunday in November to pay tribute to all those who have lost
their lives or suffered serious and irreversible damage to their health and to their surviving families in
road crashes.
i. WDoR for Road Traffic Victims 2023 falls on 19th November 2023 with the theme of “Justice”
with the slogan, “Remember. Support. Act.”
ii. The day serves as the appropriate acknowledgment for victims of road traffic crashes and their
families.
36. The National Integration day 2023 was celebrated across India on 19th November 2023 to
commemorate the birth anniversary of __________________.
1) Indira Gandhi
2) Chandra Shekhar Azad
3) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
4) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
5) Lal Bahadur Shastri
Answer- 1) Indira Gandhi
Explanation:
National Integration Day, also known as Quami Ekta Divas, is observed annually on November 19
across India to mark the birth anniversary of India’s First Female Prime Minister (PM), Indira
Priyadarshini Gandhi, popularly known as Indira Gandhi (Iron Lady of India).
i. 19th November 2023 marks the 106th birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi. The Day marks the
beginning of National Integration Week (Qaumi Ekta Week) which is observed from November 19 to
25 every year.
• The first ever National Integration Day was observed on 19th November 2013.
• She served as the third PM of Independent India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again
from January 14, 1980, till her assassination on October 31, 1984.
• She was India’s second-longest-serving PM after Nehru (August 15, 1947 – May 27, 1964).
• She was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1971 and Lenin Peace
Prize in 1984.
37. When was Women's Entrepreneurship Day (WED) 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
The 10th Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (WED) 2023 was observed across the globe on 19th
November 2023 to honour female entrepreneurs and acknowledge their achievements. The day also
honours the contributions of women in business.
• The annual observance of WED is led by the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organisation
(WEDO).

• The first-ever WED was observed on 19 November 2014 at the United Nations (UN)
headquarters in New York, the United States of America (USA).
• It was initiated by a Social Entrepreneur Wendy Diamond, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of WEDO, a non-governmental volunteer organisation.
i. On 17 November 2023, WEDO organised some events to commemorate the celebration of 10 years
of WED (proclaimed on November 19th) at the Delegates’ Dining Room inside the UN headquarters in
New York City, USA.
ii. The event includes an in-personal/virtual WEDO Summit 2023, and the Pioneer Award Luncheon.
38. What was the theme of 25th International Men’s Day, observed across the globe on 19th
November 2023?
1) Making a Difference for Men and Boys
2) Zero Male Suicide
3) Helping men and boys
4) Better Health for Men and Boys
5) Positive Male Role Models
Answer- 2) Zero Male Suicide
Explanation:
The International Men’s Day (IMD) is annually observed across the globe on November 19 to honour
the men in our lives and to acknowledge cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements they
contribute to our society.
i. 19th November 2023 marks the 25th International Men’s Day with he theme of “Zero Male
Suicide”.
ii. Celebration of IMD was founded in 1999 by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh, a history lecturer at the
University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago.
• The first ever IMD was observed on 19th November 1999.
39. What was the theme of World Fisheries Day 2023, observed across the globe of 21st
November 2023?
1) Celebrating the Wealth of Fisheries and Aquaculture
2) Investing in social protection to secure equitable Blue Transformation
3) Partnerships and Innovation for Climate Change-Resistant Fisheries
4) Social Responsibility in the fisheries value chain
5) Fisheries, Sustainability and Innovation
Answer- 1) Celebrating the Wealth of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Explanation:
The 26th World Fisheries Day 2023 was observed across the globe on 21st November 2023 with
the theme of “Celebrating the Wealth of Fisheries and Aquaculture.”
i. On 21st November 1997, the working fishermen and women representing the World Forum of Fish
Harvesters & Fish Workers met at New Delhi, Delhi and established the World Fisheries Forum (WFF).
ii. The first ever World Fisheries Day was observed on 21st November 1998.

40. When was United Nations (UN) World Television Day 2023 observed across the globe with
the theme of Accessibility?
Answer- 2) 21st November 2023
Explanation:
The 27th United Nations (UN)’s World Television Day 2023 was observed across the globe on 21st
November 2023 with the theme of “Accessibility”
• The day recognises television as a symbol for communication and globalisation in the
contemporary world.
• The first ever world television day was observed on 21st November 1997.
• 21st November was chosen to commemorate the date on which the 1st World Television
Forum was held in 1996.
41. When was World Heritage Week (WHW) 2023 observed across India?
1) 17th to 23rd November 2023
4) 21st to 27th November 2023
Explanation:
World Heritage Week (WHW) 2023 was observed across India from 19th to 25th November 2023
to promote the heritage and the culture of monuments and important sites for their conservation.
• WHW events are annually organised by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under the
Ministry of Culture, various Museums, and other heritage-conscious organisations across India
and WHW was recognised and celebrated heritage sites recognised by the United Nations
Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
i. On 20th November 2023, Union Minister Nirmala Sitaraman, Ministry of Finance, inaugurated the
WHW Photo Exhibition organised by ASI Trichy Circle (Tamil Nadu) in collaboration with the
Thiyagarajar College in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
• The exhibition with the theme of “Rock Cut Temples in South Tamil Nadu” (8th century CE –
13th century CE).
Note- UNESCO’s World Heritage Day or International Day for Monuments and Sites is annually
observed across the globe on April 18. The theme of World Heritage Day 2023 is “Heritage Changes”.
42. What was the theme of World Children’s Day 2023, observed across the globe on 20th
November 2023?
1) Inclusion: For Every Child
2) A Better Future for Every Child
3) Time to focus on impact of climate change
4) Children of today, our keepers tomorrow

5) For every child, every right

Answer- 5) For every child, every right
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) Universal Children’s Day or World Children’s Day 2023 was observed
across the globe on 20th November 2023 with the campaign theme of “For every child, every
right.”
• World Children’s Day is the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)’s annual day of action for
children, by children.
ii. On November 20th, the UNGA, UNICEF, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
(OHCHR), and several specialized agencies hosted events to mark World Children’s Day 2023 at the
UN Headquarters in New York, the United States of America (USA).
iii. The State of the World’s Children (SoWC) 2023: For every child, vaccination was published in April
2023. This is the 1st UNICEF report with a sole focus on immunisation.
• It was developed in collaboration with the Vaccine Confidence Project (VCP) and uses Vaccine
Confidence Index data from 2015, 2018, 2019 and 2022.
43. When was the Africa Industrialization Day 2023 observed across the globe by the United
Nations (UN)?
Explanation:
The 34th Africa Industrialization Day 2023 was observed across the globe by the United Nations
(UN) on 20th November 2023 with the theme of “Accelerating Africa’s Industrialization through the
Empowerment of African Women in Processing for an Integrated Market”.
i. The first ever Africa Industrialization Day was observed on 20th November 1990.
ii. The events of Africa Industrialization Week 2023 was hosted in Cairo, Egypt from 9th to 15th
November 2023.
44. What was the theme of World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day 2023,
observed across the globe on 15th November 2023?
1) Healthy Lungs - Never More Important
2) Living Well with COPD - Everybody, Everywhere
3) Your Lungs for Life
4) Healthy Lungs for All
5) Breathing is Life – Act Earlier
Answer- 5) Breathing is Life – Act Earlier
Explanation:
The World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day is annually observed across the globe
on the 3rd Wednesday of November to raise awareness about COPD, one of the most widespread
illnesses across the globe.

i. 22nd World COPD Day was observed on 15th November 2023 with the theme of “Breathing is
Life – Act Earlier”
ii. The theme highlights the importance of early lung health, early diagnosis and early interventions.
The theme is chosen by Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD).
iii. The 1st World COPD Day was observed on 20th November 2002.
45. When was the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation,
Abuse and Violence 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
The 2nd World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and
Violence 2023 was observed across the globe on 18th November 2023 to create awareness about the
impact of child sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence.
i. On 7th November 2022, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution and
proclaimed the 18th November of every year as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from
Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
ii. The resolution was sponsored by Sierra Leone and Nigeria, and co-sponsored by more than 120
countries.
iii. The day was first observed on 18th November 2022.
46. When was the United Nations (UN) World Toilet Day 2023 observed across the globe with
the theme of Accelerating Change?
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) World Toilet Day 2023 was observed across the globe on 19th November
2023 with the global campaign theme of “Accelerating Change”.
• The day is observed to raise awareness about 3.5 billion people without access to safe
sanitation and to encourage action to address the global sanitation crisis.
• Every year, the theme of World Toilet day is chosen by UN-Water, the UN’s coordination
mechanism on water and sanitation.
i. The hummingbird is the symbol of World Toilet Day 2023, because a toilet is small but mighty, just
like a hummingbird.
ii. The 1st UN recognised World Toilet Day was observed on 19 November 2013.

47. When was United Nations (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Violence against
Women 2023 observed across the globe?
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2023 was
observed across the globe on 25th November 2023 to raise public awareness about the global
problem of violence against women.
• The Day also aims to prevent violence against women and promote basic human rights and
gender equality.
i. The first-ever International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was observed on 25
November 2000.
ii. The observance marks the launch of the UNiTE campaign, a 16 days ((25th November – 10th
December) of activism against Gender-based Violence (GBV), which concludes on International
Human Rights Day (10 December).
• The 2023 global theme of the UNiTE campaign is, “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence
against women and girls”.
iii. The UNiTE campaign has proclaimed the 25th of each month as “Orange Day”, a day to raise
awareness and take action to end violence against women and girls (VAWG).
48. When was the National Constitution Day /Samvidhan Divas 2023 observed across India?
Explanation:
National Constitution Day also known as ‘Samvidhan Divas‘, is annually observed across India on 26
November to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India by the Constituent Assembly of
India on 26th November 1949.
• The Constitution of India was enacted on 26th January 1950, celebrated as Republic Day. The
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) is the Nodal Ministry for the celebration
of Constitution Day.
• 26 November 2023 marks the 74th Anniversary of adopting the Constitution of India. The
first-ever Constitution Day was observed on 26 November 2015.’
i. President Droupadi Murmu commemorated National Constitution Day on 26 November 2023 by
revealing a 7-foot statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar at the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi, Delhi.
ii. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud in commemoration of Constitution Day, introduced
2 new initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency of the judicial system.

• During an event, he launched the Fast and Secured Transmission of Electronic Records
(FASTER) 2.0 portal and a Hindi version of the e-SCR (Supreme Court Reports) portal.
49. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the National Milk Day 2023?
A) The 10th National Milk Day was observed across India on 26th November 2023 to
commemorate the 102nd birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White
Revolution in India.
B) On the occasion of National Milk Day 2023, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
and Dairying Parshottam Rupala released the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2023 in
Guwahati, Assam.
C) Under Milk production, a growth of 43.91% over the past five years witnessed in India’s
milk production and Gujarat secured 1st as the highest milk producing State.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The 10th National Milk Day was observed across India on 26th November 2023 to commemorate
the 102nd birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution in India.
• The day is annually organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, under the
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. The 1st National Milk Day was observed
on 26th November 2014.
i. On the occasion of National Milk Day 2023, Union Minister Parshottam Rupala, Ministry of Fisheries,
Animal Husbandry and Dairying released the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2023 (milk, egg,
meat and wool production 2022-23)in Guwahati, Assam.
• India’s milk production witnessed a growth of 22.81% over the past five years. It reached an
estimated 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23 against 187.75 million tonnes in 2018-19.
• Uttar Pradesh secured 1st in as the highest milk producing State and Karnataka is the top
performing state with respect to Annual Growth Rate (AGR).
ii. The National Gopal Ratna Awards 2023, one of the highest National Awards in the field of
livestock and dairy sector, has been conferred during the National Milk Day event.
• Ram Singh, Karnal, Haryana secured 1st rank in the National Gopal Ratna Awards 2023 under
the Best Dairy farmer rearing indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds Category.
50. The 75th Raising Day of National Cadet Corps (NCC) was observed across India on
___________________.

Explanation:
The National Cadet Corps (NCC), the largest uniformed youth organisation in the world annually
celebrates its raising day on the 4th Sunday of November, underscoring the NCC’s commitment to
shaping youth with core values such as discipline, leadership, and unwavering patriotism.
i. The 26th November 2023 marks the observance of NCC’s 75th Raising Day. This day is
traditionally celebrated as the “NCC day”.
• This day is celebrated all over India, with cadets participating in blood donation camps and
social development programs.
• NCC can be termed as a Tri-Services Organization as it comprises the Army, Navy and Air
Force.
• Giridhar Aramane, Secretary of the Ministry of Defence paid tribute to fallen heroes at the
National War Memorial, New Delhi, Delhi on November 25, 2023.
• As an integral part of the event, the All Girls Cadets Band (26 girls) from the NCC Wing of
Kamla Nehru College, New Delhi, Delhi played patriotic themes.
51. When was the first United Nations (UN) World Sustainable Transport Day observed across
the globe?
Explanation:
The first-ever United Nations (UN) World Sustainable Transport Day was observed on 26th
November 2023 to recognise the pivotal role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport
systems for all.
i. The observance is led by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), in
collaboration with the UN regional economic commissions.
ii. On 16th May 2023, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution
A/RES/77/286 and proclaimed the 26 November of every year as the World Sustainable Transport
Day.
• The resolution was initiated by Turkmenistan, and co-sponsored by 66 other countries.
iii. Why November 26: It was on this day in 2016, the first UN Global Sustainable Transport
Conference was held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on 26 and 27 November 2016.
• To commemorate the inaugural World Sustainable Transport Day, a series of Panel discussion
sessions were organised on 24 November 2023 in Palais des Nations Geneva Switzerland.
• The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) commemorated
November 26, 2023, as the 1st World Sustainable Transport Day with the launch of knowledge
products and awareness-raising tools.
52. When was the United Nations (UN) International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian
People 2023 observed across the globe?


Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2023 was
observed across the globe on 29th November 2023 to provide an opportunity for the international
community to show its support for the Palestinian people, who are still striving for fundamental
rights.
• The first International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People was observed in 1978.
i. UN Geneva (Switzerland) hosted the commemoration of the International Day of Solidarity with the
Palestinian People on 29 November 2023 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
ii. An exhibit entitled “Palestine – a Land with a People '' was inaugurated on November 29, 2023, and
remains on display at UN HQ in New York until January 8th, 2023.
Note- The 2023 observance gains added significance due to Israel’s attack on Gaza following the
October 7 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas, the Islamic militant organisation.
ENVIRONMENT
1. In which state, Scientists of Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research
Institute (JNTBGRI) have discovered a new species of mushroom, “Candolleomyces
albosquamosus” in October 2023?
1) Telangana
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Maharashtra
5) Karnataka
Answer- 3) Kerala
Explanation:
Scientists at the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) have
discovered a new species of mushroom, “Candolleomyces albosquamosus” on the campus of
JNTBGRI at Palode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
i. Specimens of the new species were collected from the forests on the JNTBGRI campus, which forms
a part of the Western Ghats in Kerala.
ii. Genus Candolleomyces is a relatively small genus with just 35 species recognised worldwide.
iii. Candolleomyces albosquamosus is the mushroom that can grow upto a height of 58
millimeters(mm).
iv. The cap is bell shaped and its diameter will range from 12 mm to 38.5 mm & it has the white
woolly scale-like structures on its honey-yellow pileus or cap.
2. In which state, Researchers have recently (in Oct ‘23) discovered a new species of edible fish
named ‘Awaous motla’ in the Mahanadi River?
1) Jharkhand
2) Odisha

3) Chhattisgarh
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 2) Odisha
Explanation:
Researchers have discovered a new species of edible fish named ‘Awaous motla’ in the Mahanadi
River near Sonepur, Subarnapur district and Boudh Bridge, Boudh district in Odisha. The fish was
named “motla” by the Fishermen of the Sonepur region
i. The new species was discovered as a part of the project undertaken by the Zoology Department of
Berhampur University of Odisha and Zoological Survey of India(ZSI), Gopalpur(Odisha).
ii. The details on the new species were published in the Journal of Fish Biology, a leading
international, peer-reviewed journal, in October 2023.
3. In November 2023, a new species of gecko named ‘Cnemaspis rashidi’ was discovered by the
team of researchers led by Amit Sayyed, Founder and Director of the Wildlife Protection and
Research Society, in ____________ (state).
1) Odisha
2) Karnataka
3) Kerala
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Andhra Pradesh
Answer- 4) Tamil Nadu
Explanation:
The team of researchers led by Amit Sayyed, Founder and Director of the Wildlife Protection and
Research Society, have discovered a new species of gecko named ‘Cnemaspis rashidi’ in the
Western Ghats, Kottamalai estate near Rajapalayam in Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu (TN).
• The new species was named after Prof. Rashid Sayyed, father of Amit Sayyed.
• The research paper on the new species was published in Asian Journal of Conservation Biology
(AJCB), an international peer-reviewed journal of conservation research.
About Cnemaspis rashid:
i. The new species rashidi belongs to the genus Cnemaspis, which is a genus of diurnal (day) geckos
found in Asia and is one of the most diverse genera of geckos.
ii. The suggested common name of the new species is Rashid’s dwarf gecko, as it is the smallest among
the genus.
• It is approximately 2 inches long from its snout to vent.
4. In which state, Scientists have recently (in Nov ‘23) discovered a new species of epiphytic
plant named ‘Lysionotus namchoomii’?
2) Sikkim
3) Tripura
4) Assam
5) Nagaland

Explanation:
Scientists at the Arunachal Pradesh Regional Center of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have
discovered a new species of epiphytic plant named as Lysionotus namchoomii, from the Pakke-
Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh, in the eastern Himalayas.
• The new species is named after Late Chau Phunkyoo Nomchoon, a renowned Social Reformer
from the Khampti community in Arunachal Pradesh.
• The findings were described in the international peer reviewed journal, Turczaninowia.
• The new species namchoomii belongs to the genus Lysionotus, which is a genus of flowering
plants in the family Gesneriaceae.
• Lysionotus species are primarily epiphytic, lithophytic, or terrestrial evergreen erect or
climbing subshrubs.
Note- An epiphyte, also called air plant, is a plant which grows on another plant, without being a
parasite.
5. In which state, Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has recently (in Nov ‘23)
discovered a new species of Taeniogonalos Schulz (wasp - a winged insect) named
Taeniogonalos dhritiae ?
1) Odisha
2) Kerala
3) Telangana
4) Karnataka
5) Tamil Nadu
Answer- 2) Kerala
Explanation:
Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of Taeniogonalos
Schulz (wasp - a winged insect) named Taeniogonalos dhritiae, in the Western Ghat Ranipuram Hills
area of Kerala. The species is named after Dr Dhriti Banerjee, a noted entomologist and the 1st
Woman Director of ZSI.
• The new species Taeniogonalos dhritiae belongs to the genus Taeniogonalos, which is a genus
of wasps in the family Trigonalyidae.
• Trigonalyidae is a small family of Hymenoptera, a large order of insects, comprising sawflies,
wasps, bees, and ants.
• There are approximately 122 known species of Trigonalyidae, distributed across 16 genes
worldwide of which 8 species are from India.
i. The research was conducted by P Girish Kumar and VD Hegde, scientists of Western Ghats Regional
Centre, ZSI, Kozhikode (Kerala), and was published in the international journal ‘Zootaxa’ on 3
November 2023.
6. Name the Institution of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) that has recently (in
Nov ‘23) discovered two new species of seer fish: Scomberomorus avirostrus (Arabian Sparrow
seer fish) and Scomberomorus leopardus (Russell’s Spotted Seer Fish) in Indian Waters.
1) Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture
2) Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute
3) Central Institute Brackishwater Aquaculture
4), Central Institute on Fisheries Education

5) Central Institute of Fisheries Technology

Answer- 2) Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute
Explanation:
Researchers from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Central Marine Fisheries
Research Institute (CMFRI) have discovered two new species of seer fish: Scomberomorus avirostrus
(Arabian Sparrow seer fish) and Scomberomorus leopardus (Russell’s Spotted Seer Fish) in
Indian Waters.
i. This discovery brings the total number of seer fish species in Indian waters to 6 from the existing 4
species.
ii. These 3 species are:
• The newly discovered seer fish (Arabian sparrow)
• The resurrected seer fish (Russell’s spotted)
• The existing spotted seer fish
7. In November 2023, the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) passed a resolution to

adopt a collective target of 5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use by ___________ (year).
1) 2030
2) 2025
3) 2027
4) 2028
5) 2026
Answer- 1) 2030
Explanation:
The Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has passed a resolution to adopt a collective target of
5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use by 2030 among its 14 member airlines.
• The resolution was made in its 67th Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific
Airlines which was held in Singapore.
• This aims to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, as SAF can reduce greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil-based jet fuels.
• The adoption of SAF is a critical step in the aviation industry’s journey towards net-zero
emissions by 2050.
8. In which state, a new species of music frog ‘Nidirana Noadihing’ (Noa-Dihing music frog) was
discovered in November 2023?
1) Tripura
2) Odisha
3) West Bengal
4) Mizoram
Explanation:
A new species of music frog ‘Nidirana Noadihing’ (Noa-Dihing music frog) was discovered near the
Namdapha Tiger Reserve in Gandhigram, Arunachal Pradesh.

i. The discovery was made by a team of scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India (Uttarakhand),
the University of Wolverhampton (United Kingdom – UK), and the Arunachal Pradesh Forest
Department.
ii. The scientists claimed in an article published in the November 15 edition of the journal Zootaxa.
iii. The new species was named after the Noa-Dihing River, where the specimens were discovered.
iv. The discovery of the Noa-Dihing music frog validates the presence of the genus Nidirana from
India.
APP and WEB PORTAL

1. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) launched its mobile app based cab
services and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) backed digital payment solutions to book cabs,
track their rides in real-time?
1) Jharkhand
2) West Bengal
3) Mizoram
4) Odisha
5) Assam
Answer- 5) Assam
Explanation:
The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) has launched its mobile application(app) – based
city cab services and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) – backed digital payment solutions to book
cabs, track their rides in real-time, and make payments digitally.
i. The new services were inaugurated by Assam Transport Minister Parimal Suklabaidya.
ii. With 9,000 city cab service taxis, ASTC aims to provide commuters a convenient, affordable, and
safe mode of travel.
iii. The ASTC has partnered with PhonePe Private Limited to provide UPI-based digital payment
solutions for its city cab services. ASTC city cabs will start online cab bookings in Lokpriya Gopinath
Bordoloi International Airport, in Guwahati (Assam).
CURRENT STATIC BANKING

1. What is the Tagline of the Bank of India?
1) Always You First
2) Relationship Beyond Banking
3) We value you
4) We Understand Your World
5) Support All the Way
Answer- 2) Relationship Beyond Banking

Explanation:
About Bank of India (BoI):
MD & CEO – Rajneesh Karnatak
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Tagline – Relationship Beyond Banking
2. Which among the following are the first payment banks of India?
1) Paytm Payments Bank
2) Airtel Payments Bank
3) Fino Payments Bank
4) India Post Payment Bank
5) Jio Payments Bank
Answer- 2) Airtel Payments Bank
Explanation:
Airtel Payments Bank Limited is India’s first payment bank,with its license issued on April 11, 2016
and operational since January 2017.
• Payment banks are a new type of financial institution in India. They provide basic banking
services to people who are currently unbanked or underbanked. Payment banks cannot offer
loans or credit cards.
• They can only offer savings accounts, current accounts, and mobile banking services. The
introduction of payment banks is a significant development in the Indian financial sector.
3. Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a _______ digit unique code used to identify the
particular branch of a particular bank.
1) 8
2) 9
3) 11
4) 12
5) 10
Answer- 2) 9
Explanation:
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a unique code used to identify the particular branch of a
particular bank. It is used mainly by the banking industry to ease the processing and clearance of
cheques and other documents. It is a 9-digit code.
i. The first three digits represent the city code of the bank branch – generally the pin code initials, The
next three digits represent the bank code, and The last three digits represent the bank branch.
4. Which of the following is ‘Not’ a type of prospectus according to the companies act 2013?
1) Abridged Prospectus
2) Deemed Prospectus
3) Red Herring Prospectus
4) Shelf Prospectus
5) Statutory Prospectus
Answer- 5) Statutory Prospectus

Explanation:
The prospectus is a legal document for market participants and investors to pursue, detailing the
features, prospects, and promise of a financial product. It is mandated by the law to be supplied to
prospective customers.
i. According to the companies act 2013, there are four types of prospectus, Abridged Prospectus,
Deemed Prospectus, Red Herring Prospectus, and Shelf Prospectus.
5. What is the share of sponsor banks in the regional rural banks?

1) 15%
2) 35%
3) 20%
4) 50%
5) 25%
Answer- 2) 35%
Explanation:
National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD) is an apex Development Bank by the
Government of India. In RRBs, 15% share is held by the State Government, 50% by the Central
Government, and 35% by the Sponsor Bank.
6. Which of the following Small Finance Bank (SFB) was the 1st Small Finance Bank in India?
1) Jana SFB
2) Utkarsh SFB
3) Capital SFB
4) Ujjivan SFB
5) AU SFB
Answer- 3) Capital SFB
Explanation:
Capital Small Finance Bank (erstwhile Capital Local Area Bank) is India's first small finance bank
founded in April 2016 as a microfinance lender, with its headquarters in Jalandhar, India.
7. Scheduled Commercial Banks are included under __________ (schedule) of the Reserve Bank of
India Act, 1934.
1) 5th
2) 4th
3) 2nd
4) 1st
5) 3rd
Answer- 3) 2nd
Explanation:
Scheduled Commercial Banks and Scheduled Co-operative Banks which are included in the Second
Schedule to the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
8. “Yogakshemam Vahamyaham” is the tagline of ______________ (organization).


3) Life Insurance Corporation of India

4) Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India
Answer- 3) Life Insurance Corporation of India
Explanation:
“Yogakshemam Vahamyaham” is the tagline of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). “Your
welfare is our responsibility” is the English translation of the tagline.
9. In which year India’s 1st ATM was introduced by HSBC?

1) 1967
2) 1969
3) 1987
4) 1976
5) 1992
Answer- 3) 1987
Explanation:
First ATM in India was introduced by HSBC in 1987. The first ATM was launched by Barclays Bank in
1967 in London.
10. Which of the following is not a Negotiable Instrument as per the Negotiable Instrument Act,
1881?
1) Bank Note
2) Fixed Deposit Receipt
3) Bill of exchange
4) Promissory Note
5) Cheque
Answer- 2) Fixed Deposit Receipt
Explanation:
A negotiable instrument is a piece of paper that entitles a person to a sum of money and which is
transferable from one person to another under the Negotiable Instrument Act 1881. A negotiable
instrument means a promissory note, bill of exchange, Cheque. Bank Note, Bank Draft, Circular Note,
Dividend Warrant.
11. MCLR is the minimum lending rate below which a bank is not permitted to lend.
What does ‘L’ Stand for?
1) Lending
2) Linking
3) Liquidity
4) Loan
5) Listed
Answer- 1) Lending
Explanation:
Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) is the minimum lending rate below which a
bank is not permitted to lend.
i. MCLR replaced the earlier base rate system to determine the lending rates for commercial banks.

ii. RBI implemented MCLR on 1 April 2016 to determine rates of interest for loans.
12. Name the Insurance company that has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with the Finconvenio
Services Private Limited to provide easy access to get health insurance.
1) Star Health and Allied Insurance
2) Aditya Birla Health Insurance
3) HDFC ERGO General Insurance
4) Niva Bupa Health Insurance
5) Max Life Insurance
Answer- 1) Star Health and Allied Insurance
Explanation:
Star Health and Allied Insurance has announced a partnership with Finconvenio Services Private
Limited, (Finequs) a technology-driven financial services distribution company, to enhance its
presence across India.
• This partnership would provide easy access to standalone health insurer's products to people
living in small towns and cities, empower over a million local kirana and neighborhood retail
stores owners to provide health insurance to their customers.
• This tie-up would provide easy access to health insurance in more than 2,500 pin codes in the
country
13. What is the Full form of ‘LTRO’?

1) Liquidity Term Reserve Operations
2) Liquidity Time Repo Operations
3) Long-Term Repo Operations
4) Long-Term Reserve Operations
5) Long-Time Repo Operations
Answer- 3) Long-Term Repo Operations
Explanation:
LTRO is Long-Term Repo Operations.
• LTRO is a tool that allows banks to borrow one to three years of funds from the Central Bank at
the Repo rate. It is called ‘Targeted’ LTRO if the Central Bank wants banks opting for funds
under this option to be specifically invested in investment-grade corporate debt.
• LTRO was first introduced by the European Central Bank (ECB) during its sovereign debt crisis
that began in 2008.
14. What is the Tagline of IndusInd Bank?

1) Be A Step Ahead Of Life
2) We Make You Feel Richer
3) Good People to Grow With
4) Your Perfect Banking Partner
5) We understand your world
Answer- 2) We Make You Feel Richer
Explanation:
About IndusInd Bank:
Establishment – 1994


MD & CEO – Sumant Kathpalia
Tagline – We Make You Feel Richer
15. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) permitted AD Category-I banks to allow
Qualified Jewellers to remit advance payment for _______ days for silver import through
International Bullion Exchange IFSC Ltd (IIBX).
1) 20
2) 11
3) 14
4) 10
5) 15
Answer- 2) 11
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) permits that AD Category-I banks may allow Qualified Jewellers to
remit advance payment for 11 days for silver import through International Bullion Exchange IFSC Ltd
(IIBX).
• Earlier this facility was available for the import of gold only. The same has been extended to
the import of silver as well.
• Further, the guidelines notified on the import of gold by Qualified Jewellers shall also apply to
the import of silver also.
16. Name the Committee that recommended the formation of National Bank for Agriculture
and Rural Development (NABARD).
1) Kasturirangan Committee
2) Narayan K. Seshadri Committee
3) C Rangarajan Committee
4) Bimal Jalan Committee
5) Sivaramman Committee
Answer- 5) Sivaramman Committee
Explanation:
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is a development bank
focussing primarily on the rural sector of the country. It is the apex banking institution to provide
finance for Agriculture and rural development.
• Its headquarter is located in Mumbai, the country’s financial capital.
i. It is a statutory body established in 1982 under the Parliamentary act-National Bank for Agriculture
and Rural Development Act, 1981.
ii. The formation was recommended by the Sivaramman Committee under the Chairmanship of
Sivaramman, former member of Planning Commission.

CA STATIC GK
1. Who is the present (as of Oct ‘23) Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
AU Small Finance Bank (SFB)?
1) Samit Ghosh
2) V. Vaidyanathan
3) Ajay Kanwal
4) Ittira Davis
5) Sanjay Agarwal
Answer- 5) Sanjay Agarwal
Explanation:
About AU Small Finance Bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Sanjay Agarwal
Headquarters – Jaipur, Rajasthan
Established in – 1996
Tagline – Badlaav Humse Hai
2. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme(UN–

Habitat) located?
1) Lausanne, Switzerland
2) Nairobi, Kenya
3) Madrid, Spain
4) Vienna, Austria
5) Copenhagen, Denmark
Answer- 2) Nairobi, Kenya
Explanation:
About United Nations Human Settlements Programme(UN–Habitat):
Executive Director – Maimunah Mohd Sharif
Headquarters – Nairobi, Kenya
3. In which year, World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) was established?
1) 1960
2) 1945
3) 1924
4) 1938
5) 1956
Answer- 3) 1924
Explanation:
About the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI):
The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) helps savings and retail banks around the
world to thrive.
President- Isidro Fainé
Headquarters- Brussels, Belgium

Establishment in – 1924
Members & Countries- 96 Members & 69 Countries
4. In which state Bardhaman Zoological Park is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Odisha
3) Jharkhand
4) Karnataka
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 1) West Bengal
Explanation:
About West Bengal:
Chief Minister– Mamata Banerjee
Governor– C. V. Ananda Bose
Zoological Parks– Alipore Zoological Garden and Bardhaman Zoological Park
5. In October 2023, President Draupadi Murmu terminated the services of an Indian Army
Major posted with a Strategic Forces Command (SFC) unit by exercising powers Section 18 of
the Army Act, ________(year).
1) 1955
2) 1950
3) 1953
4) 1947
5) 1952
Answer- 2) 1950
Explanation:
• President Draupadi Murmu has terminated the services of an Indian Army Major posted with a
Strategic Forces Command (SFC) unit. An Army inquiry had earlier found that the Major was
involved in several lapses which comprised national security.
• The President, exercising powers conferred by Section 18 of the Army Act, 1950, read with
Article 310 of the Constitution and all other powers enabling in this behalf, ordered that the
services of the Major be terminated with immediate effect.
• These orders were issued on September 15 and promulgated earlier this month at the Strategic
Forces Command Unit where the Major was posted in North India.
6. Which state/UT has recently (in Oct ‘23) initiated the process to digitally link all land
records and segregate it into different categories?
1) Delhi
2) Gujarat
3) Maharashtra
4) West Bengal
5) Ladakh
Answer- 1) Delhi

Explanation:
The Delhi government has initiated the process to digitally link all land records across the national
capital and segregate it into different categories.
i. Under the initiative, the revenue department will integrate the digital records of land and properties
into the Delhi Online Registration Information System (DORIS) portal.
ii. The new portal will be the centralised repository designed to enable property buyers, sellers, and
officials to access crucial information.
7. In October 2023, J.P. Morgan has appointed _____________ as the new Asia Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of its Asia Private Bank.
1) Ajay Gupta
2) Jayanth Kumar
3) Harshika Patel
4) Vivek Jain
5) Praveen Sharma
Answer- 3) Harshika Patel
Explanation:
J.P. Morgan has appointed Harshika Patel as the new Asia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its Asia
Private Bank and Kam Shing Kwang as its Chairwoman of North Asia. Patel joins the private bank
from the J.P. Morgan’s corporate and investment banking business in Asia and will succeed Kwang,
who has been the CEO of its Asia Private Bank for six and a half years.
• Patel will retain her existing role as CEO of J.P. Morgan Hong Kong, the bank added. She served
as Asia’s Head of Strategy at J.P. Morgan prior to the appointment.
• Kwang, who has been with the American firm for 25 years, will advise on J.P. Morgan’s strategic
agenda and continue to strengthen key stakeholder relationships in the region in her new role.
8. In which state Rajaji Tiger Reserves is located?

1) Gujarat
2) Uttarakhand
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Bihar
Answer- 2) Uttarakhand
Explanation:
The Uttarakhand government decided to establish the Rajaji Tiger Reserve Conservation
Foundation to accelerate and facilitate ecological, economic, social and cultural development in the
landscapes in and around the reserve.
• The foundation will also provide support to local communities in providing alternative
livelihood opportunities to reduce dependence on forests, reap the benefits of ecotourism and
deal with human-wildlife conflict and related crimes.
• It will provide assistance as needed in filling gaps or providing additional resources for any
planned or ongoing conservation effort.

9. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in _______________ (state).

1) Telangana
2) Maharashtra
3) Karnataka
4) Kerala
5) Odisha
Answer- 4) Kerala
Explanation:
Recently, suspected Maoists reportedly opened fire at Forest department watchers at the Aralam
Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur, Kerala.
i. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the western slopes of the Western Ghats. It is the
northernmost wildlife sanctuary of Kerala which was established in 1984.
ii. It is contiguous with Wayanad-Brahmagiri, Wayanad northern slopes and the Protected Areas of
Karnataka State namely the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and also the forests of Coorg.
10. Which institution of the World Bank Group provides political risk insurance and credit
enhancement for cross-border investments?
1) International Monetary Fund (IMF)
2) International Finance Corporation (IFC)
3) Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
4) International Development Association (IDA)
5) International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)
Answer: 3) Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
Explanation:
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) is a member of the World Bank Group and its
primary purpose is to offer political risk insurance and credit enhancement to encourage foreign
investments in developing countries, helping to promote economic growth and reduce poverty.
11. In which state Attiveri Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) West Bengal
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Telangana
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
About Karnataka:
Governor – Thawar Chand Gehlot
WildLife Sanctuary – Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Thimlapura Wildlife Sanctuary, Yadahalli
Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary
Bird Sanctuary-Adichunchanagiri Peacock Sanctuary, Attiveri Bird Sanctuary, Ghataprabha Bird
Sanctuary

12. Tadoba National Park located in ________ (state).

1) West Bengal
2) Maharashtra
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Karnataka
5) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:
About: Maharashtra
Chief Minister- Shri Eknath Shinde
Governor- Shri Ramesh Bais
National Park- Tadoba National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Chandoli National Park
Airport- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport(Mumbai, Maharashtra)
Dance Form- Dangari Gaja, Bohada and Lavani
13. In which state/UT, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Tamil Nadu
2) Goa
3) Kerala
4) Delhi
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 2) Goa
Explanation:
The Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on western tip of the Island of Chorao along the Mandovi
River in Goa. The sanctuary is an estuarine mangrove habitat and is named after Salim Ali, the famous
Indian ornithologist.
i. The sanctuary is host to little bittern, black bittern, red knot, jack snipe, pied avocet, striated heron,
western reef heron, mudskippers, fiddler crabs, etc.
14. What is the capital of Kazakhstan?

1) Tehran
2) Amman
3) Jerusalem
4) Baghdad
5) Astana
Answer- 5) Astana
Explanation:
About Kazakhstan:
Prime Minister (PM)– Alikhan Smailov
Capital– Astana
Currency– Kazakhstani Tenge

15. In which year the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) was established?
1) 1972
2) 1945
3) 1958
4) 1964
5) 1934
Answer- 2) 1945
Explanation:
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):
Director-General– Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters– Paris, France
Established in– 1945
16. Which company has recently (in Oct ‘23) received three gold awards at the International
Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC-2023)?
1) JSW Steel Limited
2) Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
3) Tata Steel Limited
4) REC Limited
5) Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited
Answer- 5) Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited
Explanation:
Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, received
three gold awards at the International Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC-2023),
organised by the China Association of Quality (CAQ), held in Beijing.
• RINL’s Quality Circle (QC) teams Tesla, Rockers and Abhyuday clinched the awards.
17. Which institution of the World Bank Group focuses on providing financing and advisory
services to the private sector for development projects?
1) International Finance Corporation (IFC)
2) International Monetary Fund (IMF)
3) Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
4) International Development Association (IDA)
5) World Bank
Answer: 1) International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Explanation:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group that focuses on
providing financing and advisory services to the private sector for development projects. It aims to
promote private sector investment in developing countries.
18. In which state Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Gujarat

4) West Bengal
5) Assam
Answer- 3) Gujarat
Explanation:
The Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Ahmedabad, Gujarat & it is the one of 4 more
Indian sites that were recognised as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar
Convention.
19. Who is the ex-officio Chairperson of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)?
1) President of India
2) Vice President of India
3) Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
4) Union Minister of Home Affairs
5) Prime Minister of India
Answer- 5) Prime Minister of India
Explanation:
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is the apex statutory body for disaster
management in India.
i. It was formally established on September 27, 2006, in compliance with the Disaster Management
Act of 2005.
ii. The Prime Minister (PM) of India is the ex-officio Chairperson of NDMA.
20. Where is the Headquarters of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) located?
1) Geneva, Switzerland
2) Rome, Italy
3) Paris, France
4) Beijing, China
5) Vienna, Austria
Answer- 4) Beijing, China
Explanation:
About Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB):
President – Jin Liqun
Headquarters – Beijing, China
21. In which state Anshi National Park is located?

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Karnataka
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Gujarat

Explanation:
About Karnataka:
Chief Minister– Siddaramaiah
Governor– Thaawar Chand Gehlot
National Park– Anshi National Park, Bandipur National Park
Wild Life Sanctuary– Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary; Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary
22. Kerala celebrated its _______ formation day on 1st November 2023.
1) 65th
2) 62nd
3) 70th
4) 67th
5) 68th
Answer- 4) 67th
Explanation:
Kerala celebrates its 67th formation day on 1st November 2023, which is also known as 'Kerala
Pirayi day'.
i. The State of Kerala was formed on 1st November 1956, amalgamating the erstwhile provinces of
Malabar, Cochin and Thiruvithancoor.
23. In which state Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Bihar
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) West Bengal
5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, commonly known as the Rajiv Gandhi Zoo or Katraj Zoo, is
located in Katraj, Pune district, Maharashtra State, India.
• It is managed by the Pune Municipal Corporation. The 130-acre (53 ha) zoo is divided into
three parts: an animal orphanage, a snake park, and a zoo, and includes the 42-acre (17 ha)
Katraj Lake.
• The zoo has a collection of reptiles, mammals, and birds. Among mammals, the zoo has a white
tiger and a male Bengal tiger named Tanaji.
24. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is designed to take individual and collective action
for protecting and preserving the environment in the period of 2022 to________.
1) 2027
2) 2026
3) 2025
4) 2024
5) 2023
Answer- 1) 2027

Explanation:
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was introduced by PM Narendra Modi during COP26
(Conference of the Parties) at Glasgow, Scotland in November 2021 with the objective to mobilise at
least one billion Indians and other global citizens to take individual and collective action for protecting
and preserving the environment. The mission is a 5-year program (2022-2027).
i. It will be curated and incubated by NITI Aayog, and then will be implemented by the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
25. In which state ‘Navegaon National Park’ is located?

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Gujarat
3) Tamil Nadu
4) Maharashtra
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Chief Minister– Eknath Sambhaji Shinde
Governor– Ramesh Bais
National Parks– Navegaon National Park; Chandoli National Park
Wildlife Sanctuaries– Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary; Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary
26. In which state ‘Kawal Tiger Reserve’ is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Telangana
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Gujarat
Answer- 2) Telangana
Explanation:
Kawal Tiger Reserve is located in the North Eastern part of Telangana (Old Adilabad district), with
the Godavari River on one side and the Maharashtra border on the other.
i. It forms part of the Deccan peninsula-central highlands. Rivers: The reserve is the catchment for the
rivers Godavari and Kadam, which flow towards the south of the sanctuary.
27. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) President of Asian Paralympic Committee (APC)?
1) Majid Rashed
2) Nasanbat Oyunbat
3) Masayuki Mizuno
4) Zhao Su-jing
5) Michael Barredo
Answer- 1) Majid Rashed
Explanation:
About Asian Paralympic Committee (APC):
President – Majid Rashed

Headquarters – Dubai, United Arab Emirates(UAE)

Established – 2002
28. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of Defense Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO)?
1) Vaibhav Shah
2) Samir V Kamat
3) Sanjai K Dwivedi
4) Y Sreenivas Rao
5) M Z Siddique
Answer- 2) Samir V Kamat
Explanation:
About Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) :
Chairman– Dr. Samir V Kamat
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Motto– Balasya mulam vigyanam (Sanskrit) means “The source of strength is Science”
29. In which year the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was established?
1) 1965
2) 1948
3) 1944
4) 1974
5) 1961
Answer- 3) 1944
Explanation:
About International Monetary Fund (IMF):
Managing Director – Kristalina Georgieva
Headquarters– Washington D.C, United States of America (USA)
Establishment– 1944
30. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO)
of IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited?
1) Narendra Ostawal
2) Rushabh Gandhi
3) Debadatta Chand
4) RM Vishakha
5) Hemant Kaul
Answer- 4) RM Vishakha
Explanation:
About IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life):
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer(CEO)– RM Vishakha
Incorporated in November 2009
Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra.

31. The Indian government's flagship initiative, the Jal Jeevan Mission, aims to provide safe and
adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to all households in
rural India by ________ (year).
1) 2025
2) 2027
3) 2024
4) 2028
5) 2026
Answer- 3) 2024
Explanation:
Seventy per cent rural households have been provided tap water connection till now under the Jal
Jeevan Mission, according to official data.
• The government's flagship initiative Jal Jeevan Mission launched in 2019 aims at providing
safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to all
households in rural India by 2024.
• Out of the 19,24,26,914 rural households in the country, as many as 13,47,50,894 households
have been provided tap water connection till now, according to Jal Jeevan Mission data.
• It stated that among the states and union territories, nine have 100 percent coverage, 10 more
than 75 per cent coverage, 11 more than 50 per cent coverage and four have below 50 per cent
coverage.
• The Union Territory of Lakshadweep has the lowest tap water connection coverage at 32.36
per cent. 'The facility of tap water has reached 70 per cent of the families living in the villages
of India.
32. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Reliance Retail Limited?
1) Venkatachalam Subramaniam
2) Akhilesh Prasad
3) Pankaj Mohan Pawar
4) Ranjit Vasant Pandit
5) Dipak Chand Jain
Answer- 2) Akhilesh Prasad
Explanation:
About Reliance Retail Limited:
RRL is a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL), the holding company of all the retail
companies under Reliance Industries Limited(RIL).
Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Akhilesh Prasad
33. ____________, Wildlife Conservationist passed away in October 2023.

1) Anne Wright
2) Billy Lilly
3) Berjis Driver
4) Robin Banerjee
5) Claude Alphonso Alvares

Answer- 1) Anne Wright

Explanation:
Anne Wright, the wildlife campaigner, who died aged 94 at her family’s Kipling Camp jungle resort on
the edge of Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, was one of the last of the British expatriates who
stayed on after independence in 1947.
• Anne Wright, wildlife campaigner, tiger enthusiast, horse breeder, party lover, and friend of
leading politicians and royalty,was one of the last of the British expatriates who stayed on after
independence in 1947.
• Wright received the Sanctuary Asia Lifetime Service Award in 2013.
• In 1972, Anne Wright was appointed a member of India’s elite Tiger Task Force, which
produced a remarkable document titled “Project Tiger; a planning proposal for the
preservation of tigers in India.” Launched the following year, initially with nine tiger reserves,
this was the beginning of one of the most ambitious-ever wildlife conservation projects.
• She also worked on the drafting of the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972, and personally
pushed through the creation of a number of protected areas.
34. Which state’s Basic Education and Secondary Education Departments has recently (in Oct
‘23) signed a non-financial MoU with EMBIBE to accelerate the achievement of Nipun Bharat
goals?
1) Gujarat
2) Odisha
3) West Bengal
4) Karnataka
5) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Basic Education and Secondary Education Departments signed a non-
financial MoU with EMBIBE to accelerate the achievement of Nipun Bharat goals for UP.
i. It has been chosen for its interactive content library and Artificial Intelligence-led personalisation
for better classroom teaching, student learning as well as learning outcomes enhancement in Science,
Math and Social Science across over 55,000 schools.
35. Which of the following cities in Punjab have been recently (in Oct ‘23) included in the 30
cities of historical and religious tourism importance of 15 States selected under the Swadesh
Darshan 2.0 scheme of the Union Ministry of Tourism?
1) Kapurthala
2) Amritsar
3) Bathinda
4) Both 1 & 2
5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
In Punjab, two cities, Amritsar and Kapurthala, have been included in the 30 cities of historical and
religious tourism importance of 15 States selected under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme of the
Union Ministry of Tourism.

• Earlier in the year 2018-19 Sri Anandpur Sahib, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib,
Ferozepur, Khatkar Kalan, Patiala and Kalanaur were selected in this Scheme.
• The objective of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the Union Government is to make the visit of
tourists pleasant and memorable by providing better basic facilities in cities of historical and
religious importance.
• Under this, 70 crores of rupees will be spent on development works in Amritsar and
Kapurthala cities of Punjab.
36. In which state Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Tamil Nadu
2) Goa
3) Kerala
4) Delhi
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 2) Goa
Explanation:
About Goa:
Chief Minister- Pramod Sawant
Governor- P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
National Park- Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Airport- Manohar International Airport(Mopa, North Goa)
Dance Form: Dhalo, Fugdi, Kunbi
37. BIMSTEC is a regional organisation founded in ________ with the signing of the Bangkok
Declaration.
1) 1997
2) 1995
3) 2000
4) 2005
5) 2010
Answer- 1) 1997
Explanation:
BIMSTEC is a regional organisation founded in 1997 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration.
i. It was formerly called BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation),
but it is now known as BIMSTEC and has 7 member countries.
ii. It consists of 5 South Asian countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and 2
Southeast Asian countries (Myanmar and Thailand).
• BIMSTEC Secretariat is situated in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
38. Gugamal National Park located in _________ (state).

1) West Bengal
2) Maharashtra
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Karnataka
5) Andhra Pradesh

Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
National Park – Gugamal National Park, Tadoba National Park (tiger reserve)
Wildlife Sanctuary – Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
39. In which state ‘Govind wildlife sanctuary’ is located?

1) Maharashtra
3) Bihar
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Uttarakhand
Explanation:
About Uttarakhand:
Uttarakhand was formed on 9th November 2000 as the 27th State of India.
National Park – Nanda Devi National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary – Govind wildlife sanctuary, Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary
40. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India?
1) Sunil Arora
2) Harishankar Brahma
3) Rajiv Kumar
4) Achal Kumar Jyoti
5) Sushil Chandra
Answer- 3) Rajiv Kumar
Explanation:
About Election Commission of India (ECI):
It is a constitutional body established by the Constitution of India to conduct and regulate elections in
India. It operates under the authority of Constitution per Article 324
Chief Election Commissioner– Rajiv Kumar
41. Bhutanese _________ is the currency of Bhutan.

1) Ngultrum
2) Rupee
3) Yen
4) Rupiah
5) Peso
Answer- 1) Ngultrum

Explanation:
About Bhutan:
Prime Minister(PM)– Lotay Tshering
Currency– Bhutanese Ngultrum
Capital– Thimphu
42. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of ICICI Bank?
1) Shyam Srinivasan
2) Prashant Kumar
3) Sandeep Bakhshi
4) Sumant Kathpalia
5) Ajay Kumar Srivastava
Answer- 3) Sandeep Bakhshi
Explanation:
About ICICI Bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Sandeep Bakhshi
Tagline – Hum Hai Na Khayal Apka
43. In which state Mrugavani National Park is located?

1) Odisha
2) Telangana
3) Maharashtra
4) West Bengal
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 2) Telangana
Explanation:
About Telangana:
Chief Minister– K. Chandrashekar Rao
Governor– Tamilisai Soundararajan
National Parks– Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park; Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National
Park; Mrugavani National Park
44. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) announced visa free entries for the citizens of India
from 10th November 2023 to 10th May 2024?
1) Philippines
2) Indonesia
3) Vietnam
4) Cambodia
5) Thailand
Answer- 5) Thailand

Explanation:
Thailand is taking steps to revitalize its tourism industry by allowing visa free entries for the
citizens of India and Taiwan, from 10th November 2023 to 10th May 2024.
• This move comes as the high season approaches and is part of a broader strategy to attract
more visitors to the country. Thailand had previously had visa requirements for Chinese
tourists, a significant source of visitors before the pandemic.
• This new policy is expected to attract a significant number of tourists from these regions and
give a much-needed boost to the local economy.
45. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairperson of Competition Commission of India (CCI)?
1) Ravneet Kaur
2) Anil Agrawal
3) Pawan Kumar
4) Sanjay Sood
5) Brahm Dutt
Answer- 1) Ravneet Kaur
Explanation:
Ravneet Kaur is the present Chairperson of Competition Commission of India (CCI).
• CCI is launching a pan-India Market Study on the Cement sector. Cement is a critical input in
crucial sectors of the economy such as housing and infrastructure.
• These sectors have well-known forward and backward linkages with a range of other
industries, thereby having the potential to influence the overall growth trajectory of the
economy.
• The study will be a combination of secondary research and stakeholder consultation.
Qualitative and quantitative information will be collected from secondary and primary
sources.
• Designed by the Commission, the study will be implemented by a study team at the
Commission with the assistance of an external agency to be engaged for the purpose. The study
team will hold consultation with stakeholders throughout the country.
46. ___________, an astronaut who helped the Apollo 13 crew return safely back to Earth, passed
away in November 2023.
1) James Buchli
2) Henry Hartsfield
3) Charles Duke
4) Jack Swigert
5) Ken Mattingly
Answer- 5) Ken Mattingly
Explanation:
Ken Mattingly, an astronaut who is best remembered for his efforts on the ground that helped bring
the damaged Apollo 13 spacecraft safely back to Earth, has passed away.
i. Apollo 13's story was told in the 1994 book “Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13,” co-
authored by Lovell, and in the 1995 movie “Apollo 13,” where Gary Sinise played Mattingly.

47. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) assumed charge as Chairperson of the
Cochin Port Authority (CoPA).
1) Ajay Sharma
2) B Kasiviswanathan
3) Jayanth Kumar
4) V.Thuraipandian
5) Rajesh Kumar Yadav
Answer- 2) B Kasiviswanathan
Explanation:
B Kasiviswanathan has assumed charge as Chairperson of Cochin Port Authority (CoPA), with
effect from November 1.
i. A gold medalist in Mechanical Engineering (Practicals) from the Govt. College of Technology,
Coimbatore, Kasiviswanathan started his career with Bharat Electronics Ltd, followed by Indian
Ordnance Factories Service, before joining the Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers
(IRSME).
ii. He has served as Chairman, Railway Recruitment Board, Bangalore, for more than five years.
48. Which of the following countries does not share Boundary with Bolivia?
1) Ecuador
2) Peru
3) Paraguay
4) Argentina
5) Brazil
Answer- 1) Ecuador
Explanation:
Bolivia recently announced it had broken diplomatic ties with Israel because of its attacks on the Gaza
Strip.
• Bolivia, officially the Plurinational State of Bolivia, is a landlocked country located in western-
central South America. It is named after independence fighter Simon Bolivar.
• Bordering Countries: It borders the countries of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru.
The constitutional capital is Sucre, while the seat of government and executive capital is La Paz.
Currency: Bolivian boliviano.
49. In which state Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Assam
2) Karnataka
3) Jharkhand
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
Recently, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) hosted a two-day consultation workshop on the species
recovery plan and monitoring protocols with a special focus on fishing cats.
• It is located on the Indo-Nepal border in the district Lakhimpur-Kheri in Uttar Pradesh.

• Rivers: The Sharda River flows by the Kishanpur WL Sanctuary, the Geruwa River flows
through the Katerniaghat WL Sanctuary and the Suheli and Mohana streams flow in the
Dudhwa National Park, all of which are tributaries of the mighty Ghagra River.
• Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) comprises Dudhwa National Park (DNP) and Kishanpur and
Katarniaghat wildlife sanctuaries.
50. In which state Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Telangana
4) Karnataka
5) Kerala
Answer- 2) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:
Over 50 grass species were recently identified during a two-day workshop and survey on ‘Grasses
Identification and Grassland Management’ at the Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary.
i. Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.
ii. It is located between two important hill passes known as "Mantralamma kanuma" and "Nandi
kanuma". It spreads over the Nallamallai hill range. The sanctuary derives its name from the Gundla
Brahmeshwaram plateau.
iii. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary on September 18, 1990, and covers an area of around 1,194
kilometres square. The northern part of this Sanctuary forms a major part of the southern boundary
for Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
51. In which state UNESCO World Heritage Site, ElephantaCaves is located?

1) Maharashtra
2) Odisha
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Bihar
Explanation:
A team of researchers recently discovered two rock-cut Shaivite temple caves older than Elephanta
near Rajapur, Ratnagiri.
• Elephanta Caves is a specimen of rock-cut art and architecture from the times of medieval
India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Elephanta Caves are located in Western India on Elephanta Island (otherwise known as
the Island of Gharapuri), about 7 kms from Mumbai’s mainland shore, Maharashtra.
52. The Point Calimere Wildlife sanctuary is located in _________________ (State).

1) Telangana
2) Kerala
3) Karnataka
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Tamil Nadu


Explanation:
Recently, for the first time breeding nests of crab-plovers spotted at Great Vedaranyam Swamp near
Point Calimere, Tamil Nadu
• crab-plovers is a long-legged, black and white bird of Indian Ocean coasts, related to plovers
and allied species of shorebirds.
i. Point Calimere Wildlife sanctuary was established in the year of 1967 and is situated in the state
of Tamil Nadu.
ii. It houses the famous bird sanctuary of Vedaranyam and the Talaignayar forests. It is flanked by the
Bay of Bengal in the east, and Palk Strait in the south. It is designated as a Ramsar site.
Note- The forest department of Tamil Nadu is preparing to augment water bodies to attract more
birds as the migratory season at Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary is set to peak.
53. In which state Amangarh Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Assam
2) Karnataka
3) Jharkhand
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
The tiger population at the Amangarh Tiger Reserve has increased from 21 mature tigers and six
cubs in 2021 to 28 mature tigers and four cubs now.
i. Amangarh Tiger Reserve is located in Amangarh in Bijnor district in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is
situated in the Terai region and covers an area of around 578 sq km. It shares its boundaries with Jim
Corbett National Park of Uttarakhand.
54. Koyna Dam is one of the largest dams in the state of ________ and located at Koyna Nagar in
Satara district.
1) Bihar
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Maharashtra
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Assam
Explanation:
The Koyna dam authorities, owing to the poor storage in dams across Satara district, have proposed
cuts in water discharge for both irrigation and power generation.
i. Koyna Dam is one of the largest dams in the state of Maharashtra and is located at Koyna Nagar in
Satara district.
• It is a rubble-concrete dam constructed on the Koyna River.
ii. The construction of this dam was completed in 1963 and is amongst the chief civil engineering
projects built after the independence of India.

55. Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in _________ (state).

1) Sikkim
3) Mizoram
4) Tripura
5) Assam
Answer- 4) Tripura
Explanation:
About: Tripura
Chief Minister(CM): Manik Saha
Governor: Indrasena Reddy
Wildlife Sanctuary: Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary
National Park(NP): Rajbari(Bison) NP and Clouded Leopard NP
Airport: Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport
56. In which year the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) was established?
1) 1960
2) 1945
3) 1924
4) 1938
5) 1956
Answer- 2) 1945
Explanation:
About United Nations General Assembly(UNGA):
President – Dennis Francis (Trinidad and Tobago)
Headquarters – New York, United States of America(USA)
57. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman and Managing Director (additional charge) of
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)?
1) C.B. Ananthakrishnan
2) S Anbuvelan
3) Mihir Kanti Mishra
4) Sajal Prakash
5) Saket Chaturvedi
Answer- 1) C.B. Ananthakrishnan
Explanation:
About Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL):
HAL is a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Defence which is
involved in the design, development, manufacturing, supply, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters,
aerospace systems, and components.
Chairman and Managing Director (additional charge)- C.B. Ananthakrishnan (Director
(Finance) & Chief Financial Officer (CFO))
Headquarters– Bengaluru, Karnataka
HAL was incorporated on 23 December 1940 as Hindustan Aircraft Limited

58. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) become the only Indian to win two gold medals in the annual
World Masters Powerlifting championship held in Mongolia?
1) Deepthi Jeevanji
2) Monica Dogra
3) Sharvari Inamdar
4) Angrej Singh
5) Ekta Bhyan
Answer- 3) Sharvari Inamdar
Explanation:
Dr. Sharvari Inamdar, a 40-year-old mother of two from Pune, India, has become the only Indian to
win two gold medals in the annual World Masters Powerlifting championship held in Mongolia.
i. Competing in the 57kg category, Inamdar lifted a total of 350kg to secure the gold medal. She also
achieved a total of 395kg in the 'equipped' category, earning her the second rank in the International
Powerlifting Federation's 'Best Lifters of Masters/Strong Woman' title. Inamdar's mother, Dr. Purna
Bharde, also won bronze medals in the 60-plus age category at the championship.
59. Who is the current (as of Feb ‘23) Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of DCB Bank?
1) Raj Vikash Verma
2) R. Mohan
3) Sandeep Bakhshi
4) R Subramaniakumar
5) Murali Natrajan
Answer- 5) Murali Natrajan
Explanation:
Murali Natrajan is the present Managing Director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) of DCB
Bank.
• The Bank announced a plan to re-launch secured credit cards by the end of December 2023.
However, the bank does not have any immediate plans to launch traditional credit cards.
• The features of a secured credit card are similar to a traditional credit card. But, these secured
cards are collateralised, meaning that they are offered against a fixed deposit.
• A secured credit card is especially popular with self-employed customers who may not
necessarily be eligible for a traditional credit card.
60. In which state, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Karnataka
5) Telangana
Explanation:
Around 50 Odonata species were identified on the first day of the two-day Odonata survey that
commenced in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) recently.

i. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is located in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu, spread over 321 sq. km.
at the tri-junction of three states, viz, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
ii. It lies on the Northeastern and Northwestern slopes of the Nilgiri Hills, which are part of the
Western Ghats. It is part of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, the first Biosphere Reserve in India.
61. Which of the following countries shares the boundary with the Dead Sea?
1) Israel & Jordan
2) Jordan & Iran
3) Lebanon & Syria
4) Iran & Israel
5) Syria & Jordan
Answer- 1) Israel & Jordan
Explanation:
Iran-backed 'Islamic Resistance in Iraq' recently claimed an attack against an Israeli target on the
Dead Sea Coastline.
• The Dead Sea, also called the Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel to
the west. However, the western shore’s southern half belongs to Israel, while the shore’s
northern half is in the West Bank, an area claimed by both Israel and Palestine.
• It lies to the east of the Mediterranean Sea and south of the Sea of Galilee. It lies in the Jordan
Rift Valley and is fed mainly by the Jordan River, which enters the lake from the north.
62. In which state, ‘Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Telangana
2) Kerala
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Karnataka
Answer- 2) Kerala
Explanation:
Recently, researchers discovered a new species of jumping spider from the Shendurney Wildlife
Sanctuary.
• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of India, in
the Kollam district of Kerala. This Sanctuary derives its name from Chenkurinji (Gluta
travancorica), a species endemic to this region. It comes under the control of Agasthyamalai
Biosphere Reserve.
63. Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in ___________.

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Haryana
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) Rajasthan
5) Punjab
Answer- 2) Haryana

Explanation:
About Haryana:
Governor – Bandaru Dattatreya
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary,Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhilchhila
Wildlife Sanctuary
Dams – Hathnikund barrage, Anagpur Dam
64. Every Year, Madhya Pradesh celebrates its foundation day on _______.
1) 1st November
2) 2nd November
3) 21st October
4) 29th October
5) 31st October
Answer- 1) 1st November
Explanation:
Madhya Pradesh state celebrated its 68th foundation day on 1st November 2023.
Madhya Pradesh State was formed on November 1, 1956 following the reorganisation of States.
65. Every year, Parumala Perunnal is observed on ____________ in Kerala.

1) 29th October
2) 30th October
3) 2nd November
4) 1st November
5) 31st October
Answer- 3) 2nd November
Explanation:
Parumala Perunnal is observed on 2nd November in Kerala every year to remember the death of
Bishop Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, the first canonised saint of Indian origin, who belonged to
Kerala’s Malankara Orthodox community. On this day, the bishop was interred in the church. It is one
of the most well-known events celebrated in the southern state and takes place in Parumala town of
Pathanamthitta district.
i. Parumala is a small village on the banks of the Pampa River in South India.
66. What is the capital of Lebanon?

1) Baghdad
2) Beirut
3) Bishkek
4) Muscat
5) Amman
Answer- 2) Beirut
Explanation:
Lebanon consists of a narrow strip of territory and is one of the world’s smaller sovereign states. The
capital is Beirut & Lebanese Pound is the currency.

67. In which state Palamau Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Uttar Pradesh
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Jharkhand
5) Rajasthan
Explanation:
About Jharkhand:
Chief Minister (CM) – Hemant Soren
Governor – C.P. Radhakrishnan
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Palkot Wildlife Sanctuary; Mahuadanr Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserve- Palamau Tiger Reserve
68. In which state Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Telangana
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Karnataka
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located in Karnataka. The main breeding ground for a variety of
local and migratory birds.
i. It comprises 6 (six) Islands and 6 (six) Islets in the river Cauvery.
69. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Directors (MDs) & Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of Bank of Maharashtra (BoM)?
1) A S Rajeev
2) Atanu Kumar Das
3) Chandra Shekhar Ghosh
4) Atul Kumar Goel
5) Sashidhar Jagdishan
Answer- 1) A S Rajeev
Explanation:
About Bank of Maharashtra (BoM):
Managing Directors (MDs) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – A S Rajeev
Headquarters – Pune, Maharashtra
Tagline – Ek Parivaar, Ek Bank (One Family One Bank)
70. In which state Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Assam
2) Rajasthan
3) Uttarakhand

4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Himachal Pradesh
Answer- 5) Himachal Pradesh
Explanation:
About Himachal Pradesh (HP):
Governor- Shiv Pratap Shukla
Wildlife Sanctuary– Kanawar Wildlife Sanctuary; Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary
Airports– Kullu Manali Airport; Shimla Airport; Kangra Airport
71. Where is the Headquarters of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (IOC-UNESCO) located?
2) Rome, Italy
3) Paris, France
4) Beijing, China
5) Vienna, Austria
Answer- 3) Paris, France
Explanation:
About Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (IOC-UNESCO):
Executive Secretary– Dr. Vladimir Ryabinin
Member States– 150
72. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Executive Director of the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP)?
1) Inger Andersen
2) Radhika Ochalik
3) Alexander Juras
4) Sianga Abilio
5) Gabriela Martinic
Answer- 1) Inger Andersen
Explanation:
About United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP):
Executive Director– Inger Andersen
Headquarters – Nairobi, Kenya
73. In which state Guindy National Park is located?

1) Telangana
2) Karnataka
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Kerala


Explanation:
Guindy National Park teeming with blackbuck and birds which is one of the very few national parks
situated in an Indian city.
• Guindy National Park is India’s eighth-smallest national park and one of the very few national
parks located inside a city. It is located in the heart of Chennai’s metropolitan area of Tamil
Nadu.
74. In which state Panna Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Bihar
4) Jharkhand
5) West Bengal
Answer- 1) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
Recently, a delegation of senior forest officers and frontline staff from Cambodia came for training at
Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) and studied India’s tiger reintroduction programme and all its aspects.
• Panna Tiger Reserve is a critical tiger habitat located in the Vindhya mountain range in the
northern part of Madhya Pradesh.
• It was declared a Project Tiger Reserve by the Government of India in 1994.
75. In which state Keetham Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Rajasthan
2) Assam
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) West Bengal
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
About Uttar Pradesh (UP):
Airport– Kushinagar International Airport, Gorakhpur airport, Agra Airport (Pandit Deen Dayal
Upadhyaya Airport)
Heritage site – Agra fort (1983) , Taj Mahal (1983), Fatehpur Sikri (1986)
Bird Sanctuary– Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Sur Sarovar (Keetham) Bird Sanctuary
76. Which of the following Indian rivers is also known as “Salt River”?
1) Damodar River
2) Subansiri River
3) Luni River
4) Kameng River
5) Lohit River
Answer- 3) Luni River

Explanation:
The Luni River is also known as the Lavanavari or Lavanavati, which means "salt river" in Sanskrit,
due to the high salinity of its water.
• The Luni River is the only inflowing river in India. Luni is also called Lavanavati. This river
originates from Anasagar (Nag Pahar ‘Ajmer’) near the Aravalli Mountains and flows in the
southwest region, and joins the Rann of Kutch. The total length of this river is 495 km.
• The Luni river originates from Ajmer and flows in southwestern Rajasthan.
77. In which state Changu Lake is located?

1) Sikkim
2) Nagaland
3) Tripura
4) Assam
5) Mizoram
Answer- 1) Sikkim
Explanation:
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim district of the Indian
state of Sikkim.
78. What is the Tagline of State Bank of India (SBI)?

1) India's International Bank
2) Prosperity for All
4) Together We Can
5) Pure Banking Nothing Else
Answer- 5) Pure Banking Nothing Else
Explanation:
About State Bank of India (SBI):
Chairman- Dinesh Kumar Khara
Founded- 1st July,1955
Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
Tagline- Pure Banking Nothing Else
79. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of Bharti Airtel?
1) Subrahmanyam
2) Anupriya Patel
3) Sunil Mittal
4) Aman Mittal
5) Samkit Shah
Answer- 3) Sunil Mittal
Explanation:
About Bharti Airtel:
Chairman– Sunil Mittal
MD and CEO– Gopal Vittal

Founded– 7 July 1995

80. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairperson of Food Safety and Standards Authority of
India (FSSAI)?
1) Anand Kumar Prasad
2) Rajesh Bhushan
3) Manish Kumar Mishra
4) Rajeev Kumar Jain
5) Ajit Kumar Das
Answer- 2) Rajesh Bhushan
Explanation:
About Food Safety and Standards Authority of India(FSSAI):
Chairperson- Rajesh Bhushan
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
81. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the additional secretary of the Ministry of
Electronics & Information Technology?
1) Alkesh Kumar Sharma
2) Magesh Ethirajan
3) Jayanth Kumar
4) Abhishek Singh
5) S. Krishnan
Answer- 4) Abhishek Singh
Explanation:
Clearing key appointments at the Centre, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet led by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced new responsibilities for as many as 21 senior IAS
officers at the Centre.
• Among the key new roles announced include that of Nagaland cadre IAS officer Abhishek
Singh, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the National e-Governance Division in
the ministry of electronics & information technology as additional secretary, ministry of
electronics & information technology.
82. In Which state Chandubi Lake is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Tripura
3) Assam
4) Odisha
5) Uttar Pradesh
Answer- 3) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
Governor- Gulab Chand Kataria
Chief Minister- Himanta Biswa Sarma

River – Kopili river, Iril river

Lake-Chandubi Lake, Haflong Lake
83. In which state Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Rajasthan
2) Madhya pradesh
3) Manipur
4) Maharashtra
5) Kerala
Explanation:
The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra
state in India.
• The origin of the name "Tadoba" lies with the name of the God "Tadoba" or "Taru", worshipped
by the tribes who live in the dense forests of the Tadoba and Andhari region. While "Andhari"
refers to the Andhari River that meanders through the forest. The total area of the reserve is
625.4 sq. KM.
• This includes Tadoba National Park, covering 116.55 sq. KM and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary of
508.85 sq. KM.
84. In which state Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Telangana
Explanation:
About Tamil Nadu:
Chief Minister- M. K. Stalin
Governor- R. N. Ravi
Wildlife Sanctuary- Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary, Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary, Nellai
Wildlife Sanctuary
Festival– Chithirai Thiruvizha, Karthigai Deepam
85. What is the base year for calculating India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP)?
1) 2019-20
2) 2011-12
3) 2004-05
4) 2017-18
5) 2010-11
Answer- 2) 2011-12
Explanation:
The base year for India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) calculation is 2011-12. The Ministry of
Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI)wants to revise it for 2017-18.

86. In which state Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Bihar
2) Odisha
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) Karnataka
5) Gujarat
Explanation:
Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is a protected area situated near Salon in Raebareli district, Uttar
Pradesh, India. It lies at about 122 km from Lucknow on Lucknow-Varanasi highway. It was
established in 1987.
Note- It is the one of the 9 Ramsar site in Uttar Pradesh
87. Where was the Ramsar Convention (Treaty) adopted in 1971?

1) Australia
2) Saudi Arabia
3) Iran
4) Qatar
5) Syria
Answer- 3) Iran
Explanation:
The Ramsar Convention is the intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for the
conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. The Convention was adopted in the
Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975.
88. Blackbuck National Park is located in _________ (state).

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Gujarat
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 4) Gujarat
Explanation:
About Gujarat:
Governor – Acharya Devvrat
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wild Ass Sanctuary, Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary
National Park – Gir National Park, Blackbuck National Park
89. Which Indian company recently (in Nov ‘23) announced a multi-year agreement with
Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA) to transform the airline's communications?
2) Doordarshan
3) NDTV
4) Reliance Communications
5) Sony Pictures Networks

Answer- 1) Tata Communications

Explanation:
Tata Communications, a global digital ecosystem enabler and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA), the
national carrier of Singapore, announced a multi-year agreement to transform the airlines
communications and collaboration tools to enhance employee productivity and boost user
experience.
• SIA and Tata Communications have a successful, long-standing association that has been
strengthened over several years. This new transformative initiative delivered on Tata
Communications GlobalRapide platform enables SIA users to be connected and collaborative
anytime and anywhere globally.
90. What is the capital of Gabon?

1) Moroni
2) Banjul
3) Bissau
4) Libreville
5) Malabo
Answer- 4) Libreville
Explanation:
About Gabon:
Capital– Libreville
Currency– Central African CFA franc
91. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) chairman of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural
Development (NABARD)?
1) Raama Sreenivasan
2) Urvish Shah
3) Revathy Iyer
4) Shaji K V
5) Ravindra H Dholakia
Answer- 4) Shaji K V
Explanation:
About National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD):
Chairman– Shaji K V
Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established- 1982
92. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Central Provident Fund Commissioner (CPFC) of
Employees’ Provident Fund Organistaion (EPFO)?
1) Chanramauli Chakraborty
2) Shobhit Shrivastava
3) Neelam Shami Rao
4) Rakesh Dabas
5) Meenu Mandola
Answer- 3) Neelam Shami Rao

Explanation:
About Employees’ Provident Fund Organistaion (EPFO):
Central Provident Fund Commissioner (CPFC)- Ms. Neelam Shami Rao
Note: CPFC is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EPFO and is the ex-officio Member Secretary of the
Central Board of EPF.
93. In which year the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was established?
1) 1943
2) 1945
3) 1920
4) 1928
5) 1934
Answer- 4) 1928
Explanation:
About the Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI):
President – Roger Binny
94. Match the following Ramsar Wetland sites in India with their respective location:
i. Keetham Lake a. Uttar Pradesh
ii. Pong Dam Lake b. Rajasthan
iii. Rudrasagar Lake c. Himachal Pradesh
iv. Sambhar Lake d. Tripura
1) i-d, ii-b, iii-a, iv-c
2) i-d, ii-c, iii-a, iv-b
3) i-d, ii-b, iii-c, iv-a
4) i-a, ii-d, iii-c, iv-b
5) i-a, ii-c, iii-d, iv-b
Answer- 5) i-a, ii-c, iii-d, iv-b
Explanation:
Ramsar Wetland site Location
Keetham Lake Uttar Pradesh
Pong Dam Lake Himachal Pradesh
Rudrasagar Lake Tripura
Sambhar Lake Rajasthan

95. Rohtang La is a mountain pass located in __________ (State/UT).

1) Jammu & Kashmir
2) Himachal Pradesh
3) Uttarakhand
4) Ladakh
Explanation:
Rohtang La is a mountain pass that connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of
Himachal Pradesh.
96. In which state Kharmor Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Assam
2) West Bengal
3) Kerala
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
About Madhya Pradesh:
Governor- Mangubhai C. Patel
UNESCO World Heritage Site- Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003)
Bird Sanctuary- Kharmor Bird Sanctuary
97. What is the Tagline of Kotak Mahindra Bank?

1) Let’s Make Money Simple
2) India’s International Bank
3) Together We Can
4) Support All the Way
5) Always You First
Answer- 1) Let’s Make Money Simple
Explanation:
About Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd:
MD & CEO – Dipak Gupta
Tagline – “Let’s Make Money Simple”
98. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
(UNCTAD) located?
2) New York, USA
3) Paris, France
4) Rome, Italy
5) Vienna, Austria

Answer- 1) Geneva, Switzerland

Explanation:
About United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD): Establishment– 1964
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
Member Countries – 195 Members
99. ________ is the shortfall between the money flowing in on exports, and the money flowing out
on imports.
1) Revenue Deficit
2) Trade Deficit
3) Twin Deficit
4) Current Account Deficit
5) Fiscal Deficit
Answer- 4) Current Account Deficit
Explanation:
Current Account Deficit or CAD is the shortfall between the money flowing in on exports, and the
money flowing out on imports.
i. Current Account Deficit (or Surplus) measures the gap between the money received into and sent
out of the country on the trade of goods and services and also the transfer of money from
domestically-owned factors of production abroad.
100. Under the PM-KISAN Scheme, Farmers will receive an amount of _________ per year in 3
equal installments directly into their bank accounts.
1) Rs. 12,000
2) Rs. 10,000
3) Rs. 6000
4) Rs. 3000
5) Rs. 8000
Answer- 3) Rs. 6000
Explanation:
(PM-KISAN) Scheme was launched on 24th February in 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.
i. It is 100% Funded by the central government under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers
Welfare (MoAFW) to provide income support to all landholding farmer’s families irrespective of the
land size in order to meet their expenses related to agriculture and domestic needs.
ii. Under the Scheme, Farmers will receive an amount of Rs.6000 per year in 3 equal installments of
Rs.2000 directly into their bank accounts.
101. In which state Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Assam
2) Rajasthan
3) Odisha
4) West Bengal
5) Punjab
Answer- 2) Rajasthan

Explanation:
About Rajasthan:
Governor– Kalraj Mishra
National Park– Desert National Park, Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Wildlife Sanctuaries– Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Phulwari ki nal
Sanctuary
102. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Administrator of the
Universal Service Obligation Fund within the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of
Telecommunications.
1) Niraj Verma
2) Sunil Kumar Verma
3) Yashashri Shukla
4) Rajesh Gupta
5) Sanjay Kumar Varshney
Answer- 1) Niraj Verma
Explanation:
Minister Narendra Modi announced new responsibilities for as many as 21 senior IAS officers at the
Centre.
i. Niraj Verma, a 1994-batch IAS officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, has been appointed as the
Administrator of the Universal Service Obligation Fund within the Department of
Telecommunications, Ministry of Telecommunications.
103. According to International Labour Organisation (ILO) data in 2023, Indians are __________
Most Hard-Working Globally.
1) 3rd
2) 6th
3) 4th
4) 7th
5) 8th
Answer- 2) 6th
Explanation:
Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy triggered a debate recently when he said youths should work
70 hours a week, however, Indians are already the sixth most hardworking out of 163 countries in the
world.
• According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) data (April 2023), the ranking is
based on taking the average number of hours per week for each employed person in India,
which works out to 47.7 hours.
• This figure shows that Indians work longer than workers in China (46.1 hours), Vietnam (41.5
hours), Malaysia (43.2 hours), the Philippines (39.2 hours), Japan (36.6 hours), the United
States (36.4 hours) and the United Kingdom (35.9 hours).
• But Indians work less than in smaller countries with small populations such as Bhutan, the
Congo, Lesotho, and Gambia.

104. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of National Cooperative Organics Ltd (NCOL)?
1) Amrita Patel
2) Dilip Rath
3) Varsha Joshi
4) Meenesh Shah
5) Nadan Kumar
Answer- 4) Meenesh Shah
Explanation:
About the National Cooperative Organics Ltd (NCOL):
Chairman – Meenesh Shah
Headquarters – Anand, Gujarat
Established – January 2023
of Axis Bank?
1) Amitabh Chaudhry
2) A S Rajeev
3) Sanjiv Chadha
4) Atanu Kumar Das
5) Rakesh Sharma
Answer- 1) Amitabh Chaudhry
Explanation:
About Axis bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Amitabh Chaudhry
Tagline – Badhti Ka Naam Zindagi
106. In which year National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) was established?
1) 1993
2) 1992
3) 1997
4) 1995
5) 1990
Answer- 4) 1995
Explanation:
About National Legal Services Authority (NALSA):
Patron-in-Chief– Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud (Chief Justice of India)
107. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)?
1) Rishikesha Krishnan
2) Dilip Asbe

3) Biswamohan Mahapatra
4) Shailendra Trivedi
5) Amitha Sehgal
Answer- 2) Dilip Asbe
Explanation:
About National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI):
NPCI is an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India. It is
an initiative of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA).
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer– Mr. Dilip Asbe
Non–Executive Chairman– Mr. Biswamohan Mahapatra
Incorporated in– 2008
108. Where is the Headquarters of the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) located?
1) New York City, United States of America
2) Paris, France
3) London, The United Kingdom
4) Rome, Italy
Answer- 3) London, The United Kingdom
Explanation:
About Chartered Quality Institute (CQI):
The CQI is the professional body for experts in improving product, project, and service quality and is
incorporated by Royal Charter.
President– Lord Jamie Lindsay
Headquarters– London, The United Kingdom(UK)
109. In which Indian state, Lipulekh Pass was located?

1) Uttarakhand
2) West Bengal
3) Assam
5) Sikkim
Explanation:
Lipulekh pass is located in Uttarakhand, India.
• Lipulekh is a Himalayan pass on the border between Uttarakhand, India and Tibet, China. This
pass is an important border pass for trade with China.
• The southern side of the pass is controlled by India but claimed by Nepal.
110. Match the following National Parks with their respective state:
i. Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park a. Chhattisgarh
ii. Papikonda national park b. Assam
iii. Marine National Park c. Andhra Pradesh

iv. Indravati National Park d. Gujarat

1) i-a, ii-b, iii-c, iv-d
2) i-d, ii-b, iii-c, iv-a
3) i-b, ii-c, iii-a, iv-d
4) i-b, ii-c, iii-d, iv-a
5) i-a, ii-c, iii-d, iv-b
Answer- 4) i-b, ii-c, iii-d, iv-a
Explanation:
Name Location
Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park Assam
Papikonda national park Andhra Pradesh
Marine National Park Gujarat
Indravati (Kutru) National Park Chhattisgarh
111. In which state Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Telangana
2) Kerala
3) Tamil Nadu
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary and an elephant reserve situated in Andhra
Pradesh, India.
• This Sanctuary comes under Project elephant - a country-wide Elephant Conservation Project
taken up by the Government of India.
112. In which state Sahyadri Tiger reserve is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Bihar
3) Maharashtra
4) Tripura
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Governor – Ramesh Bais
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Malvan (marine) Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserves – Sahyadri tiger reserve, Bor Tiger Reserve, Tadoba-Andhari, Navegaon – Nagzira

113. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) partnered with Reliance Beauty and Personal
Care Limited to develop beauty retail in India?
1) Violet Grey
2) Sephora
3) Credo Beauty
4) Revolve
5) Moda Operandi
Answer- 2) Sephora
Explanation:
Sephora, the world's leading omnichannel prestige beauty retailer, announced a partnership with
Reliance Beauty and Personal Care Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures
Limited (RRVL) to advance their shared ambition to develop and define the future of prestige beauty
retail in India.
• The partnership gives RRVL exclusive rights to build and enhance Sephora's presence in India
across channels.
• Since its first foray into India in 2012, Sephora has leveraged its unique brand and product
curation capabilities and strong point of view on beauty and experiential retail to cater to the
beauty needs of India's vast consumer base.
114. In which state Mundra Port is located?

1) Goa
2) Odisha
3) Gujarat
4) West Bengal
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 3) Gujarat
Explanation:
Mundra Port, owned by the Adani Group, has set a new milestone by handling 16.1 million metric
tonnes of cargo in October 2023, making it the highest volume ever handled by any port in India. The
port has witnessed double-digit growth in handling containers, liquids, and gas, and has expanded its
cargo portfolio.
i. Mundra Port, which is the largest port in the country, located in Gujarat has handled a total of 102
million metric tonnes of cargo so far this year, showing a growth rate of 9% compared to the previous
year.
115. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Additional Secretary
of the Ministry of Coal.
1) Niraj Verma
2) Rajesh Gupta
3) Yashashri Shukla
4) Rupinder Brar
5) Sunil Kumar Verma
Answer- 4) Rupinder Brar

Explanation:
Centre.
i. Rupinder Brar will assume the role of Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal.
116. In which state Hirakud Dam is located?

1) Assam
2) Kerala
3) Karnataka
4) Odisha
5) West Bengal
Answer- 4) Odisha
Explanation:
Hirakud Dam is located north of Sambalpur, Odisha. It is the longest earthen dam of the world
standing in its lone majesty across the great river Mahanadi, which drains an area of 1,33,090 Sq. Kms.
i. The bulk of Hirakud dam contains earth, concrete and masonry materials sufficient to make a road 8
meters wide and pave it from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and Amritsar to Dibrugarh in Assam.
117. Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary located is _____________ (state).

1) Himachal Pradesh
2) Uttarakhand
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) Gujarat
5) Bihar
Explanation:
About Uttar Pradesh(UP):
Governor – Anandiben Patel
Bird Sanctuary – Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary ,Hathinala Renukut (Sonbhadra)
Festival – Ganga Dussehra, Buddha Purnima
118. Where is the Headquarters of the International Labour Organization (ILO) located?
1) Rome, Italy
3) Montreal, Canada
4) Vienna, Austria
5) Paris, France
Explanation:
About International Labour Organisation (ILO):
Director-General– Gilbert Houngbo
Member Nations– 187

119. Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve is located in ________________(state).

1) Odisha
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Haryana
4) Rajasthan
5) West Bengal
Explanation:
Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve is a national park in Rajasthan, India .It was established in 2004.
• Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, popularly known as Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, is spread across
4 districts – Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar & Chittorgarh in Rajasthan.
• The park is situated in a valley formed by two parallel mountains viz. Mukundra and Gargola.
• It consists of three wildlife sanctuaries: Darrah wildlife sanctuary, Chambal wildlife sanctuary
and Jaswant Sagar wildlife sanctuary.
120.In which state Van Vihar National Park is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Rajasthan
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Bihar
Explanation:
Van Vihar National Park is located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Van Vihar National Park and Zoo is
one of the most revered National Parks and Zoo in Central India.
121. In which state, Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Mizoram
2) Nagaland
3) Karnataka
4) Tripura
5) Assam
Explanation:
About Karnataka:
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Melkote Wildlife Sanctuary, Mookambika wildlife sanctuary, Nugu Wildlife
Sanctuary
Airports – Hubballi domestic Airport, Belgaum domestic Airport, Bellary domestic Airport, Mysore
Airport (Mandakalli airport)
122. In which state Gandhi Sagar Dam is located?

1) Ahmedabad, Gujarat
2) Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh
3) Tehri, Uttarakhand

4) Bharatpur, Rajasthan
5) Jajpur, Odisha
Answer- 2) Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
Gandhi Sagar Dam is a masonry gravity dam on Chambal River in the Mandsaur district of Madhya
Pradesh.
• The dam was constructed in 1960 to provide drinking water to several areas of Rajasthan and
Madhya Pradesh, and generate 115 megawatts of electricity.
• It is one of the four major dams built on the Chambal River. It is also one of the five water
reservoirs of national importance.
123. In which state/UT Zoji La pass is located?

1) Sikkim
3) Himachal Pradesh
4) Ladakh
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 4) Ladakh
Explanation:
Zoji La is a high mountain pass located in the Kargil district of Ladakh. The pass links Leh and
Srinagar and provides an important link between Union Territories of Ladakh and Kashmir.
124. In which state Kanger Valley National Park is located?

1) Nagaland
2) Chandigarh
3) Assam
4) Chhattisgarh
5) Mizoram
Answer- 4) Chhattisgarh
Explanation:
About Chhattisgarh:
Governor – Biswabhusan Harichandan
Chief Minister (CM) – Bhupesh Baghel
National Parks – Indravati (Kutru) National Park, Kanger Valley National Park
125. In which state Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Jharkhand
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Maharashtra

Explanation:
Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park is located in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
• Visitors can now see 88 butterfly species ranging from the rare Blue Pansy to sun-loving
Common Leopard Butterfly at eastern India's biggest open-air butterfly park at Bhagwan Birsa
Biological Park (BBBP).
i. The park, which was thrown open for the public in November 2023, has been built on a sprawling
20 acres opposite to the aquariums in Birsa zoo on BBBP campus.
ii. The park was inaugurated by L Khiangte, additional chief secretary, department of forest,
environment and climate change.
126. In which year RailTel Corporation of India Limited was established?

1) 1990
2) 1995
3) 1997
4) 2000
5) 1992
Answer- 4) 2000
Explanation:
About RailTel Corporation of India Limited:
It is a "Mini Ratna (Category-I)" PSU and one of the largest neutral telecom infrastructure providers.
Headquarter- New Delhi, Delhi
Established - 2000
127. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of Association of Mutual Funds in India
(AMFI)?
1) Ajay Sharma
2) Navneet Munot
3) N.S.Venkatesh
4) Anthony Heredia
5) Jayanth Kumar
Answer- 2) Navneet Munot
Explanation:
About Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI):
Chairman- Mr. Navneet Munot
Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
• AMFI is the association of all the Asset Management Companies of the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI)-registered MFs in India and was incorporated on August 22, 1995, as a
non-profit organisation.
• As of November 2023, 45 Asset Management Companies that are registered with SEBI, are its
members.
128. In which year the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) was established?
1) 1945
2) 1958

3) 1956
4) 1948
5) 1950
Answer- 1) 1945
Explanation:
About the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):
Director-General- Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters- Paris, France
Establishment- 1945 (came into force in 1946)
Members - 193 Members and 11 Associate Members
129. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food
Products Export Development Authority(APEDA)?
1) Jayanth Kumar
2) Praveen Jain
3) Abhisek Dev
4) Atish Mathur
5) Ajay Agrawal
Answer- 3) Abhisek Dev
Explanation:
About Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority(APEDA):
APEDA is an apex body authorised under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry(MoCI).
Chairman- Dr. Abhisek Dev
Formation- 1986
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
130. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of Small
Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)?
1) Sivasubramanian Ramann
2) Devendra Kumar Singh
3) Ashish Gupta
4) Pankaj Jain
5) Sudatta Mandal
Answer- 1) Sivasubramanian Ramann
Explanation:
About Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI):
Chairman & Managing Director(CMD) - Sivasubramanian Ramann
Headquarters - Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Established in - 1990
131. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Additional Secretary
of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
1) Yashashri Shukla
2) Rajesh Gupta
3) Niraj Verma

4) Rupinder Brar
5) Sudeep Jain
Answer- 5) Sudeep Jain
Explanation:
Centre.
• Sudeep Jain will take on the position of Additional Secretary in the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy.
132. In which year the Asian Development Bank was established?

1) 1952
2) 1939
3) 1948
4) 1956
5) 1966
Answer- 5) 1966
Explanation:
About Asian Development Bank:
President – Masatsugu Asakawa
Headquarters – Manila, Philippines
133. Where is the Headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) located?
2) Rome, Italy
3) Paris, France
4) Vienna, Austria
5) The Hague, Netherlands
Explanation:
About World Health Organization (WHO):
Director–General– Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Established on– 7 April 1948
134. In which year Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was established?

1) 1959
2) 1940
3) 1938
4) 1949
5) 1956
Answer- 2) 1940

Explanation:
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
Chairman and Managing Director(CMD) – R Madhavan
Headquarters – Bengaluru,Karnataka
135. In Which state ‘Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Himachal Pradesh
2) Maharashtra
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) West Bengal
5) Odisha
Explanation:
About Himachal Pradesh:
Chief Minister– Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Governor– Shiv Pratap Shukla
Wildlife Sanctuary– Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary
136. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO)
of Ashok Leyland?
1) Jayanth Kumar
2) Atish Mathur
3) Shenu Agarwal
4) Ajay Kumar
5) Praveen Jain
Answer- 3) Shenu Agarwal
Explanation:
About Ashok Leyland:
Ashok Leyland is an Indian multinational commercial vehicle manufacturer; It is owned by the
Hinduja Group Limited.
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Shenu Agarwal
Headquarters – Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Established in – 1948(Established as Ashok Motors; Became Ashok Leyland in 1955)
137. In which state Corbett Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Uttarakhand
2) Bihar
3) Uttar Pradesh
4) West Bengal
5) Odisha
Explanation:
About Uttarakhand:
Chief Minister– Pushkar Singh Dhami

Governor– Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh

Wildlife Sanctuaries– Binsar wildlife sanctuary, Mussoorie wildlife sanctuary
Tiger Reserves– Corbett Tiger Reserve, Rajaji Tiger Reserve
138. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of Insurance Regulatory and Development
Authority of India (IRDAI)?
1) Rakesh Joshi
2) S. N. Rajeswari
3) Parmod Kumar Arora
4) Suchindra Misra
5) Debasish Panda
Answer- 5) Debasish Panda
Explanation:
About Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI):
Chairman- Debasish Panda
Headquarters – Hyderabad, Telangana
Established under – Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act(IRDAI), 1999
139. The Karikili Birds Sanctuary is located in _________(State).

1) West Bengal
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Maharashtra
4) Odisha
5) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:
About Tamil Nadu:
Chief Minister- M. K. Stalin
Governor- R. N. Ravi
Airports- Tuticorin or Thoothukudi Airport; Salem airport
Bird sanctuary- Karikili Birds Sanctuary, Kancheepuram; Kanjirankulam Birds Sanctuary,
Ramanathapuram
140. In which state ‘Badalkhol Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) West Bengal
3) Jharkhand
4) Maharashtra
5) Chhattisgarh
Explanation:
About Chhattisgarh:
Governor – Biswa Bhusan Harichandan

Wildlife Sanctuaries – Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary, Badalkhol Wildlife Sanctuary
141. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Director-General (DG) of the International Labour
Organisation (ILO)?
1) Audrey Azoulay
2) Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo
3) Tedros Adhanom
4) Klaus Schwab
5) Guy Ryder
Answer- 2) Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo
Explanation:
About International Labour Organisation (ILO):
Director-General – Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo
Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland
142. The Ramgarh Visdhari Tiger Reserve is located in _________ (state)

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Rajasthan
4) Bihar
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
Ramgarh Visdhari Tiger Reserve lies in the southeastern part of Rajasthan in Bindi district with
representation of both Vindhyan and Aaravalli elements.
i. It is in continuation with the buffer area of Ranthambore tiger reserve in the North-eastern side and
Mukundara Hills tiger reserve in the southern side. Mez, a tributary of Chambal river , passes through
the tiger reserve.
143. What is the currency of Sweden?

1) Peso
2) Krona
3) Dinar
4) Leu
5) Dollar
Answer- 2) Krona
Explanation:
About Sweden
Prime Minister – Ana Brnabic
Currency – Swedish Krona
Capital – Stockholm

144. In which state ‘Nameri National Park’ is located?

1) Jharkhand
2) Mizoram
3) Tripura
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Assam
Answer- 5) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
Governor – Jagdish Mukhi
Chief Minister – Himanta Biswa Sarma
National Parks – Manas National Park, Nameri National Park
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary
145. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) reappointed as the non-playing
captain of the Indian Davis Cup team until December 31, 2024.
1) Mahesh Bhupathi
2) Nandan Bal
3) Rohit Rajpal
4) Anand Amritraj
5) Prakash Amritraj
Answer- 3) Rohit Rajpal
Explanation:
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) reappointed Rohit Rajpal as the non-playing captain of the
Indian Davis Cup team until December 31, 2024. The decision was taken after careful consideration
and evaluation of Rajpal's successful tenure as captain.
146. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as Additional Secretary and Financial
Advisor of the Ministry of Textiles?
1) Hitesh Kumar
2) Shakil P Ahamed
3) Atish Matur
4) Jayanth Kumar
5) Abhishek Jain
Answer- 2) Shakil P Ahamed
Explanation:
Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced new responsibilities for as many as 21 senior IAS
officers at the Centre.
• Shakil P Ahamed has been appointed as Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor of the
Ministry of Textiles.

147. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairperson of National Highways Authority of India
(NHAI)?
1) Anil Kapoor
2) Santosh Kumar Yadav
3) Umesh Taneja
4) Baldev Kumar
5) Ajay Ahluwalia
Answer- 2) Santosh Kumar Yadav
Explanation:
About National Highways Authority of India (NHAI):
Chairperson– Santosh Kumar Yadav
Established – NHAI was constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1988, the authority became
operational in 1995
148. Where is the Headquarters of the International Cricket Council (ICC) located?
1) Dubai, United Arab Emirates
2) Mandaluyong, Philippines
3) London, United Kingdom
4) Amsterdam, Netherlands
Answer- 1) Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Explanation:
About International Cricket Council (ICC):
Chairman – Greg Barclay
Headquarters – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Established in -1909
of Federal Bank?
1) Sandeep Bakhshi
2) Prashant Kumar
3) Shyam Srinivasan
4) Sumant Kathpalia
5) Ajay Kumar Srivastava
Answer- 3) Shyam Srinivasan
Explanation:
About Federal Bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Shyam Srinivasan
Headquarters – Aluva, Kerala
Established in 1931
Tagline – Your Perfect Banking Partner

150. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Director General of All India Radio (AIR)?
1) Kishan Meena
2) Maushumi Chakravarty
3) Vivek Gaur
4) Anubhav Bairwa
5) Vasudha Gupta
Answer- 5) Vasudha Gupta
Explanation:
About All India Radio (AIR):
Akashvani Mysore (Karnataka), a private radio station, was set up in September 1935. On June 8,
1936, the Indian State Broadcasting Service transformed into AIR.
Director General – Dr. Vasudha Gupta
151. In November 2023, the Union government notified the transfers of Justice Vivek Kumar
Singh from Allahabad High Court (HC) to __________.
1) Meghalaya HC
2) Delhi HC
3) Bombay HC
4) Madras HC
5) Calcutta HC
Answer- 4) Madras HC
Explanation:
Days after the Supreme Court of India came down heavily on the Centre over continuous ‘delay’ in
implementing the recommendations by SC collegium, the Union government notified the transfers of
as many as five High Court judges.
• According to the notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice, while Justice Vivek
Kumar Singh is transferred from Allahabad High Court to Madras High Court, Justice Shekhar
B. Saraf will move from Calcutta High Court to Allahabad High Court.
• Justice Bibek Chaudhuri, currently serving at Calcutta High Court, will assume charge at Patna
High Court. Among other changes notified also include that of Justice M. Sudheer Kumar who is
shifted from Telangana High Court to Madras High Court and Justice C. Sumalatha who will
move from Telangana High Court to Karnataka High Court.
• The Union government notified these changes on the recommendations of the Supreme Court
collegium led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justice
Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice BR Gavai, and Justice Surya Kant.
152. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed Mika, an AI-powered humanoid
robot, as its experimental Chief Executive Officer (CEO)?
1) Parle Agro
2) Orient Beverage
3) Dictador
4) Kweichow Moutai
5) Pearl Drinks
Answer- 3) Dictador

Explanation:
Dictador, a Polish beverage company, appointed Mika, an AI-powered humanoid robot, as its
experimental Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in August of the previous year. This decision highlights a
growing trend in integrating artificial intelligence into leadership roles.
• Mika, described as a more sophisticated version of the well-known AI robot Sophia, shared in a
Reuters video interview that she operates tirelessly, being “always on 24/7” and working
seven days a week.
• Her responsibilities range from identifying potential clients to selecting artists for designing
bottles for the rum producer.
153. As of November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) gold reserves touched __________
metric tonnes in fiscal 2023, an increase of nearly 5 per cent over fiscal 2022.
1) 598.15
2) 820.12
3) 692.49
4) 794.64
5) 839.45
Answer- 4) 794.64
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) gold reserves touched 794.64 metric tonnes in fiscal 2023, an
increase of nearly 5 per cent over fiscal 2022, when it held 760.42 metric tonnes of gold.
• Because, as part of the diversification process, the RBI has been adding gold to its reserves,
which is considered a more safe, secure, and liquid asset, to safeguard its returns amid global
uncertainty and a rising inflation scenario.
• The RBI bought 34.22 tonnes of gold in fiscal 2023; in fiscal 2022, it had accumulated 65.11
tonnes of gold. Between the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 (the RBI used to follow the July-
June accounting year then; this was changed to April-March starting 2020-21) and fiscal 2023,
the RBI’s gold reserves swelled by 228.41 tonnes.
154. Name the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) that has recently (in Nov ‘23) established a
Center of Excellence (CoE) named ATMAN (Advanced Technologies for Monitoring Air-quality
iNdicators).
1) IIT Madras
2) IIT Delhi
3) IIT Kanpur
4) IIT Bombay
5) IIT Indore
Answer- 3) IIT Kanpur
Explanation:
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has established a Center of Excellence (CoE) named
ATMAN (Advanced Technologies for Monitoring Air-quality iNdicators).
• The CoE is a significant step towards the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative of the Government of
India, focusing on building indigenous low-cost sensor manufacturing and Artificial
Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) capabilities to enhance air quality across urban and
rural areas of India.

• The CoE ATMAN aims to translate sustainable technologies and business models into practical
products and services accessible to millions globally. It represents a pivotal move towards
achieving self-reliance in air quality monitoring and management.
155. In November 2023, the district court of The Hague, Netherlands, rejected India's request
to cancel a USD 111 million compensation award to foreign investors in _________ (Indian
City)based company Devas Multimedia.
4) Bengaluru, Karnataka
5) New Delhi, Delhi
Answer- 4) Bengaluru, Karnataka
Explanation:
The district court of The Hague, Netherlands, rejected India's request to cancel a USD 111 million
compensation award to foreign investors in Bengaluru, Karnataka based company Devas
Multimedia.
• The payment was awarded by the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law
(UNCITRAL) tribunal because a satellite deal from 2005 with India's ISRO's Antrix Corporation
and Devas Multimedia was cancelled in 2011.
• The Court of Netherlands refused to overturn the award, finding the Indian government liable
for improperly terminating the deal.
• In 2005, Antrix Corporation, the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO), entered a satellite deal with Devas Multimedia, a Bengaluru start-up.
• In 2011, the Indian government abruptly cancelled the deal, citing national security reasons.
The decision was taken in the midst of the 2G scam and allegations that the Devas deal
involved the handing over of a communication spectrum valued at nearly Rs 2 lakh crore for a
pittance.
• Legal Battles and Compensation Awards: Foreign investors in Devas Multimedia, pursued
compensation through international tribunals. In 2015, the International Chamber of
Commerce (ICC) arbitration tribunal, awarded Devas Multimedia USD 1.2 billion in
compensation.
156. Central Pollution Control Board is a Statutory Organisation which was constituted under
_____________.
1) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
2) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
3) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
4) Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1985
5) National Environment Tribunal Act, 1995
Answer- 3) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
Explanation:
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), statutory organisation, was constituted in September,
1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

• Additionally, it was given powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act 1981.
• The CPCB functions as a field formation and offers technical services to the Ministry of
Environment and Forests in line with the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 provisions.
• Its primary roles, as defined in the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and
the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, include: Promoting the cleanliness of
streams and wells in various regions by preventing, controlling, and mitigating water pollution.
Enhancing air quality and preventing, controlling, or mitigating air pollution nationwide.
157. The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) was established under the National
Commission for Minorities Act ,__________.
1) 1988
2) 1990
3) 1992
4) 1995
5) 1997
Answer- 3) 1992
Explanation:
About National Commission for Minorities (NCM):
i. The establishment of the Minorities Commission has been envisaged in the Ministry of Home Affairs
Resolution dated 12th January 1978.
ii. The NCM was established under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992.
158. Where is the Headquarters of the World Wide Fund for Nature located?
2) Virginia, United States
3) Gland, Switzerland
4) Paris, France
5) Rome, Italy
Answer- 3) Gland, Switzerland
Explanation:
About World Wide Fund for Nature:
Founded: 1961
Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland
Purpose: Environment and Wildlife Conservation
159. In which state Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Gujarat
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 4) Gujarat

Explanation:
About Gujarat:
Governor – Acharya Devvrat
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wild Ass Sanctuary, Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary
National Park – Gir National Park, Blackbuck National Park
160. Where is the Headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) located?
1) Rome, Italy
3) Montreal, Canada
4) Vienna, Austria
5) Paris, France
Answer- 4) Vienna, Austria
Explanation:
About International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
It is the world's foremost intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical cooperation in the
peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Director General– Rafael Mariano Grossi
Headquarters– Vienna, Austria
161. Which of the following States is Not mentioned in the sixth schedule of the Indian
Constitution?
2) Assam
3) Meghalaya
4) Tripura
5) Mizoram
Explanation:
The sixth schedule contains provisions related to the Administration of Tribal Areas in the States
of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram.
• The Sixth Schedule provides for the administration of certain tribal areas as autonomous
entities.
• The provisions of the sixth schedule are provided under Articles 244(2) and 275(1) of the
Indian Constitution.
162. In which state ‘Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Tripura
2) Assam
3) Nagaland
4) Bihar
5) West Bengal
Answer- 1) Tripura

Explanation:
About Tripura:
Governor– Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
Chief Minister– Manik Saha
Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)– Sepahijala WLS, Trishna WLS, Gomati WLS
163. As of November 2023, what is the Death benefit provided under “Pradhan Mantri Jeevan
Jyoti Bima Yojana(PMJJBY)”?
1) Rs. 1 lakh
2) Rs. 2 lakh
3) Rs. 5 lakh
4) Rs. 10 lakh
5) Rs. 20 lakh
Answer- 2) Rs. 2 lakh
Explanation:
The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is a yearly renewable term insurance policy
launched by the central government of India. In case of the death of the insurance holder, the death
benefit of Rs 2 lakh is offered by the PMJJBY to the nominee of the policy.
164. Daporijo Airport is located in __________ (state).

1) Tripura
2) Assam
4) West Bengal
5) Mizoram
Explanation:
About Arunachal Pradesh:
Chief Minister- Pema Khandu
Governor – Lt. General Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Yordi-Rabe Supse
Airports – Along Airport, Daporijo Airport
165. In which state Valmiki Tiger Reserve is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Bihar
4) Jharkhand
5) Odisha
Answer- 3) Bihar
Explanation:
About Bihar:
Chief Minister – Nitish Kumar
Governor- Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar

Wildlife Sanctuary – Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary, Valmiki Wildlife
Sanctuary, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserve – Valmiki Tiger Reserve
166. Which is the 1st Wetland in India to be designated as a Ramsar Site?

1) Chilika Lake
2) Loktak Lake
3) Wular Lake
4) Kolleru Lake
5) Vembanad Lake
Answer- 1) Chilika Lake
Explanation:
The population of dolphins in Chilika Lake, India’s largest brackish water lake, along the Odisha coast
has doubled in 2021 compared with last year, jumping from 146 to 162.
• Chilika Lake is the 1st Wetland in India to be designated as a Ramsar Site in 1981.
167. In Which state Haflong Lake is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Tripura
3) Assam
4) Odisha
5) Uttar Pradesh
Answer- 3) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
River – Kopili river, Iril river
Lake-Chandubi Lake, Haflong Lake
168. Which of the following personalities is not appointed as the Distinguished Fellows for a
period of one year by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog?
1) S. Venkatasubramanian
2) V. Lakshmikumaran
3) O.P Agarwal
4) Anoop Singh
5) Ajai Chowdhry
Answer- 1) S. Venkatasubramanian
Explanation:
National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, the premier policy think tank of the
Government of India, recently appointed four Distinguished Fellows for a period of one year. The four
new members of NITI Aayog will bring along significant work experience, coupled with their
understanding and expertise of key social, economic and technical issues. The four distinguished
individuals joining the ranks of NITI Aayog are:
• Prof. (Dr.) Anoop Singh

• Dr. O.P Agarwal

• Dr. Ajai Chowdhry
• Sh. V. Lakshmikumaran
169. In which year Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established?
1) 2017
2) 2008
3) 2015
4) 2010
5) 2014
Answer- 2) 2008
Explanation:
Rajesh Bhushan is the present Chairperson of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The Headquarters of FSSAI is located in New Delhi, Delhi and established in 2008.
• Recently Widening the accessibility of key online services, the Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI) has now launched its Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS)
portal in four regional languages.
• The move comes shortly after the food safety authority launched its services in Hindi language
in September earlier this year.
• Now apart from English and Hindi, the FSSAI portal will also be accessible in four regional
languages including Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi.
• According to the food regulatory body, the move looks to improve the user experience for local
food businesses and provide a more accessible platform to connect with the FSSAI's online
compliance portal, FoSCoS.
170. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Justice of India (CJI)?
1) Ranjan Gogoi
2) Uday Umesh Lalit
3) D.Y. Chandrachud
4) Nuthalapati Venkata Ramana
5) Dipak Misra
Answer- 3) D.Y. Chandrachud
Explanation:
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, inaugurated a café, completely managed by specially-
abled staff, in the premises of the Supreme Court. Other judges of the apex court were also present on
the occasion.
• The ‘Mitti Cafe’ is an initiative to empower people with special needs by providing them
employment and livelihood opportunities.
• Ayesha Alam, the CFO of Mitti Cafe said, “Mitti Café is the dream of a 23-year old, who wanted
to show the world the magic of abilities.”
• Alina Alam, the Founder and CEO of Mitti Cafe emphasised the significance of having a Mitti
Café operated by adults with physical, intellectual, and psychiatric disabilities at the apex
justice institution of India, conveying a powerful message about the essence of inclusive
development.

171. As of November 2023, India has become the __________ largest manufacturer of mobile
phones in the world.
1) 5th
2) 3rd
3) 1st
4) 2nd
5) 4th
Answer- 4) 2nd
Explanation:
India has become the second largest manufacturer of mobile phones in the world. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi said during his address at the public meeting in Jharkhand in November 2023.
• He also stated that the Centre will launch a scheme worth Rs 24,000 crore for the welfare of
tribals in the country on 15th November 2023 when the entire nation will celebrate Bhagwan
Birsa Munda's birth anniversary.
172. In which state Koundinya wildlife sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Kerala
4) Jharkhand
5) West Bengal
Explanation:
Koundinya wildlife sanctuary is located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh.
i. This Sanctuary comes under Project elephant - a Countrywide Elephant Conservation Project taken
up by the Government of India.
173. What is the capital of Mongolia?

1) Pyongyang
2) Vientiane
3) Ulaanbaatar
4) Baghdad
5) Nicosia
Answer- 3) Ulaanbaatar
Explanation:
About Mongolia:
Capital– Ulaanbaatar
Prime Minister- Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene
Currency– Mongolian Tugrik
174. In which state ‘Betla National Park’ is located?

1) Odisha
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) West Bengal
4) Jharkhand

5) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
About Jharkhand
Chief Minister– Hemant Soren
Governor- C. P. Radhakrishnan
Capital– Ranchi
National Parks- Betla National Park
175. In which year the International Energy Agency (IEA) was established?
1) 1958
2) 1974
3) 1983
4) 1994
5) 1948
Answer- 2) 1974
Explanation:
About International Energy Agency (IEA):
Executive Director– Dr Fatih Birol
176. Who is the current (as of Nov’ 23) President of Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce and Industry (FICCI)?
1) Subhrakant Panda
2) Rajeev Chandrasekhar
3) Anish Shah
4) Sanjiv Mehta
5) Sudarshan Kumar Birla
Answer- 1) Subhrakant Panda
Explanation:
About Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI):
President – Subhrakant Panda
177. Where is the Headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) located?
1) New York City, United States of America
2) Vienna, Austria
4) Paris, France
5) Lausanne, Switzerland
Answer- 5) Lausanne, Switzerland

Explanation:
About International Olympic Committee (IOC):
President– Thomas Bach
Headquarters– Lausanne, Switzerland
178. Who is the current Chairman (as of Nov ‘23) of the Press Council of India(PCI)?
1) Devdutt Pattanaik
2) N Ram
3) Gulab kothari
4) Ranjana Prakash Desai
5) Bhavani Koteswara Prasad
Answer- 4) Ranjana Prakash Desai
Explanation:
About Press Council of India(PCI):
PCI is a statutory, quasi-judicial authority functioning as a watchdog of the press, for the press and by
the press.
Chairman– Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai
179. In which state Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Tripura
2) Assam
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Gujarat
Answer- 2) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
National Park– Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park; Kaziranga National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary– Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary; Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary
180. In which state Nahar Singh Stadium is located?

1) Odisha
2) Haryana
3) Gujarat
4) Uttarakhand
5) Rajasthan
Answer- 2) Haryana
Explanation:
About Haryana:
Stadium- Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Nahar Singh Stadium (Mayur Stadium)
Festival- Gangore, Baisakhi, Teej

181. Papikonda National Park is located in_________ (state).

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Telangana
3) Kerala
4) Tamil Nadu
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
About Andhra Pradesh:
Governor – Abdul Nazeer
National Parks – Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Papikonda national park, Sri Venkateswara National
Park(biosphere reserve)
Wildlife sanctuaries – Sri Lankamalleswara WildLife Sanctuary, Krishna Wildlife sanctuary,
Kaundinya WildLife Sanctuary
182. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations Children's Fund(UNICEF) located?
1) Paris, France
2) Manila, Philippines
4) Vienna, Austria
5) New York, United States of America (USA)
Answer- 5) New York, United States of America (USA)
Explanation:
About United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF):
Executive Director – Catherine Russell
Headquarters – New York, United States of America (USA)
183. In which state Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Telangana
Explanation:
About Tamil Nadu:
Governor – Ravindra Narayana Ravi
Bird Sanctuary – Vettangudi birds Sanctuary, Karikili Birds Sanctuary
Festival – Pongal, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Thaipusam
184. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) of India celebrated its ________ anniversary on
15th November 2023.
1) 40th
2) 35th
3) 30th

4) 25th
5) 50th
Answer- 1) 40th
Explanation:
India’s nuclear regulator, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), celebrated its ruby jubilee
anniversary on November 15 2023 to mark 40 years of its existence.
• It was on this day that the national regulatory authority was constituted in 1983 to enforce
nuclear and radiation safety regulations in the country.
• Stalwarts of the Indian nuclear fraternity including Dr A.K. Mohanty, Chairman of Atomic
Energy Commission, and Vivek Bhasin, Director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BERC),
among others, came together to extend their wishes to AERB on this momentous occasion.
185. Which state has recently (in Nov ‘23) set a new Guinness world record by lighting over 22
lakh diyas (lamps)?
1) Gujarat
2) Jharkhand
3) Bihar
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
Uttar Pradesh has set a new Guinness world record by lighting over 22 lakh diyas (lamps) in
Ayodhya.
• Ayodhya began the Deepotav festival with the formation of the Yogi Adityanath government in
2017. The government lit up around 51,000 diyas in 2017, and then 4.10 lakh diyas in 2019.
• The number then every year goes up with over 6 lakh diyas in 2020, and 9 lakh diyas
illuminated in 2021. In 2022, over 17 lakh diyas were lit up across the Ram ki Pairi ghats.
However, that year Guinness Book of World Records considered only those diyas which
remained lit up for at least five minutes, hence the record was set at 15,76,955 diyas.
186. Name the bank that has recently (in Nov ‘23) stopped online Immediate Payment System
(IMPS) transfers as funds from transactions.
2) UCO Bank
4) Bank of India
5) Indian Overseas Bank
Answer- 2) UCO Bank
Explanation:
The government-owned UCO Bank has temporarily stopped online Immediate Payment System
(IMPS) transfers as funds from transactions initiated by customers of other banks were credited to
account holders of UCO Bank, but the bank did not actually receive the money.
• The incidents occurred between November 10 and 13, The bank, as a precautionary measure,
has made the IMPS channel offline and is working closely with stakeholders to resolve the
issue and restore the IMPS services at the earliest.

187. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) collaborated with Amadeus to drive travel
experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
1) BharatPe
2) PhonePe
3) Paytm
4) Razorpay
5) Freecharge
Answer- 3) Paytm
Explanation:
Paytm(One97 Communications Limited) announced a partnership with Amadeus, under which it will
integrate Amadeus' travel platform and optimise travel experience from search to booking, and
payment.
• The company has partnered with global travel technology company Amadeus to redefine travel
experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• This partnership brings together Paytm's vast user base and Amadeus's expertise to provide
travellers with a more seamless and efficient booking experience
188. In which State Bhitarkanika Mangroves is located?

1) Tamil Nadu
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Telangana
5) Assam
Answer- 3) Odisha
Explanation:
About Odisha:
Ports – Gopalpur port, Paradip Port, Dhamra Port
Ramsar sites – Bhitarkanika Mangroves
Stadium – Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium (Multipurpose- indoor), East Coast Railway Stadium
(cricket – outdoor)
189. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman & Managing Director of SJVN Limited?
1) Naveen Kumar Gupta
2) Amarjit Singh Juneja
3) Sanjeev Dutt Sharma
4) Nand Lal Sharma
5) Ajay Kumar Sharma
Answer- 4) Nand Lal Sharma
Explanation:
About SJVN Limited (formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam) :
It is a joint venture between the government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh. It is a
Mini Ratna & Schedule ‘A’ Public Sector Undertaking (PSU).
Chairman & Managing Director– Nand Lal Sharma
Headquarters– Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (HP)
Incorporated – May 24, 1988

190. What is the Tagline of Punjab National Bank (PNB)?

1) One Family One Bank
2) Good people to bank with
3) The Name you can Bank Upon
4) Honors Your Trust
5) We Make You Feel Richer
Answer- 3) The Name you can Bank Upon
Explanation:
About Punjab National Bank (PNB):
Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Atul Kumar Goel
Tagline – The name you can bank upon
191. What is the capital of Argentina?

1) Mogadishu
2) Buenos Aires
3) Monrovia
4) Ashgabat
5) Niamey
Answer- 2) Buenos Aires
Explanation:
About Argentina:
President– Alberto Angel Fernandez
Capital– Buenos Aires
Currency– Argentine Peso
192. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman and Managing Director of GAIL India Limited?
1) Sandeep Kumar Gupta
2) Atish Mathur
3) Jayanth Kumar
4) Praveen Jain
5) Jyoti Kumar
Answer- 1) Sandeep Kumar Gupta
Explanation:
About GAIL India Limited:
GAIL India Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprises under Ministry of Petroleum and
Natural Gas (MoP&NG)
Chairman and Managing Director– Sandeep Kumar Gupta

193. A Glacial Lake _________ Flood (GLOF) is a sudden and potentially catastrophic flood that
occurs when water stored behind a glacier or a moraine is released rapidly.
1) Outburst
2) Ozone
3) Occur
4) Oxygen
5) Organic
Answer- 1) Outburst
Explanation:
In October 2023, Sikkim recently experienced a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF). The South
Lhonak Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 17,000 feet in the state's northwest, experienced a
rupture as a result of continuous rainfall.
• Consequently, water was discharged into the downstream regions, causing flooding in the
Teesta River and impacting four districts of Sikkim: Mangan, Gangtok, Pakyong, and Namchi, as
reported by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA).
• This flooding also caused the Chungthang Hydro-Dam in Sikkim (on Teesta river) to breach,
worsening the overall situation.
i. A GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) is a sudden and potentially catastrophic flood that occurs
when water stored behind a glacier or a moraine (a natural accumulation of ice, sand, pebbles, and
debris) is released rapidly.
• These floods happen when glacial lakes formed by melting ice accumulate water behind weak
moraine dams.
• Unlike sturdy earthen dams, these moraine dams can fail abruptly, releasing large volumes of
water in minutes to days, leading to devastating downstream flooding.
194. Which of the following is Not the digital public infrastructure(DPI) ecosystem of India?
1) DigiYatra
2) Digilocker
3) Aadhar
4) E kuber
5) Unified Payments Interface
Answer- 4) E kuber
Explanation:
India’s digital public infrastructure (DPI), loosely the India Stack and more, is shaped in a unique
partnership between governments (Union and States), regulators, the private sector, selfless
volunteers, startups, and academia/think tanks.
• Digital public infrastructure (DPI) refers to blocks or platforms such as digital identification,
payment infrastructure and data exchange solutions that help countries deliver essential
services to their people, empowering citizens and improving lives by enabling digital inclusion.
• The DPI initiative, also known as the India Stack, is a collection of digital platforms such as
Aadhaar, Digital Locker, DigiYatra, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and technologies that
have been developed through collaboration between different entities, including governments,
regulators, the private sector, volunteers, startups, and academic institutions

195. What state is famous for Longpi Pottery?

1) Rajasthan
2) Madhya pradesh
3) Manipur
4) Maharashtra
5) Kerala
Answer- 3) Manipur
Explanation :
Longpi Pottery originating from the village of Longpi in Manipur, the Tangkhul Naga tribes practise
this unique pottery style.
• Longpi pottery stands out as it doesn't rely on the potter's wheel; everything is hand-shaped or
moulded.
• The distinct grey-black cooking pots, sturdy kettles, and charming bowls are Longpi's
trademarks, but new design elements are being introduced.
196. The Judge of the High Court is appointed by ________________under clause (1) of Article 217 of
the Constitution.
1) President of India
2) Prime Minister of India
3) Judge of Supreme court of India
4) Governor of India
5) Chief Judge of India
Answer- 1) President of India
Explanation:
The Chief Justice and Judges of the High Courts are to be appointed by the President under clause (1)
of Article 217 of the Constitution.
197. In which state Sundarban Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Odisha
3) West Bengal
4) Uttarakhand
5) Bihar
Explanation:
About West Bengal:
Chief Minister– Mamata Banerjee
National Park– Neora Valley National Park
Tiger Reserve– Buxa Tiger Reserve; Sundarban Tiger Reserve
198. The National Commission for Backward Classes is a constitutional body under Article
338B of the Constitution of India under __________ (Ministry).
1) Ministry of Minority Affairs
2) Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
3) Ministry of Law and Justice


5) Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Answer- 2) Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
Explanation:
National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) is a constitutional body under Article 338B of the
Constitution of India under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
199. Dihang Dibang Biosphere Reserve is located in __________ (state).

2) Assam
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
About Arunachal Pradesh:
Airport- Tezu Airport, Itanagar Airport
Biosphere Reserve- Dihang Dibang Biosphere Reserve
200. Bhitarkanika National Park is situated in which state?

1) Kerala
2) Bihar
3) Odisha
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Assam
Answer- 3) Odisha
Explanation:
Bhitarkanika National Park is located in Odisha. It has the second-largest mangrove forest in India
and is a Ramsar site and declared as a Bhitarkanika National Park in the year of 1988.
201. In which state Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Tripura
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Uttarakhand
5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Capital – Mumbai
Chief Minister – Eknath Shinde
Tiger Reserves – Melghat Tiger Reserve, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Bor Wildlife Sanctuary

202. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) became the First Woman to Skydive from 21,500 ft of height
in front of the world's highest peak, Mt Everest?
1) Priya Suman
2) Shital Mahajan
3) Archana Sardana
4) Shweta Parmar
5) Sonali Aggarwal
Answer- 2) Shital Mahajan
Explanation:
Indian skydiver Shital Mahajan jumped off a helicopter from the height of 21,500 ft in front of the
world's highest peak, Mt Everest. She became the first woman to do so.
i. Mahajan landed at Kalapatthar peak at an altitude 17,444ft. Mahajan is a well-known Indian
skydiver who holds several skydiving records and is the recipient of the fourth highest civilian award,
the Padma Shri in 2001.
203. Let’s Make Money Simple is the tagline of __________ (Bank).

1) ICICI Bank
2) Federal Bank
3) Axis Bank
4) Kotak Mahindra Bank
5) IDFC FIRST Bank
Answer- 4) Kotak Mahindra Bank
Explanation:
About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL):
MD and CEO– Dipak Gupta (Interim) term ends on December 31, 2023.
Founded in– 2003
Tagline– Let’s Make Money Simple
204. In which state Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Bihar
4) Jharkhand
5) Odisha
Answer- 3) Bihar
Explanation:
About Bihar:
Chief Minister– Nitish Kumar
Wildlife Sanctuaries– Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary, Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary
Zoological Parks– Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park

205. Which country has recently (in Nov ‘23) issued free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia,
Japan, Indonesia and Thailand?
1) Maldives
2) Sri Lanka
3) Singapore
4) Vietnam
5) Cambodia
Answer- 2) Sri Lanka
Explanation:
Sri Lanka Cabinet approved issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia
and Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March.
• Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, Ali Sabry stated that the pilot project, which
commenced immediately, will extend until March 31, 2024.
206. Former United States (US) first lady _________, passed away in November 2023.
1) Rosalynn Carter
2) Barbara Pierce Bush
3) Laura Welch Bush
4) Hillary Rodham Clinton
5) Nancy Davis Reagan
Answer- 1) Rosalynn Carter
Explanation:
Former United States (US) first lady Rosalynn Carter, who President Jimmy Carter called "an
extension of myself" owing to her prominent role in his administration even as she tirelessly
promoted the cause of mental health, passed away on 19th November 2023 at age 96.
i. In May 2023, the Carter family had said she had dementia but was continuing to live happily at the
couple's home in Plains, Georgia.
• Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter were the longest-married presidential couple, having wed in 1946
when he was 21 and she was 18.
Note- James Earl Carter Jr. (Jimmy Carter) is an American politician and humanitarian who served as
the president of the United States from 1977 to 1981.
207. Who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the Namita Chattopadhyay Sahitya Samman 2023 for
the book Nadijibir Notebook (‘notebook on rivers’)?
1) Anish Ranjan Chatterjee
2) Moti Nandi
3) Selina Hossain
4) Supratim Karmakar
5) Samaresh Majumdar
Answer- 4) Supratim Karmakar
Explanation:
Nadijibir Notebook (‘notebook on rivers’) a book in Bengali by writer and river scientist Supratim
Karmakar, published in 2022, was honoured with the Namita Chattopadhyay Sahitya Samman
2023 on November 18 at the Bangla Akademi in Kolkata.

• The book deals with issues concerning the rivers of India, their ecology, and the steps that can
be taken for their rejuvenation.The writer expressed happiness over the recognition, and
pointed out that this was the first time a non-fiction book had been honoured with the literary
award.
• The book deals with several issues, including the construction of dams, hydel power projects,
and erosion along riverbanks. Running across 175 pages, the book contains maps, photographs
and charts dealing with the ecology of rivers as well as the lives of the people dwelling on their
banks.
208. In November 2023, ___________ (district in Kerala) became the first district in the country to
complete Aadhaar enrolment of children below five years.
1) Kozhikode
2) Idukki
3) Wayanad
4) Alappuzha
5) Ernakulam
Answer- 3) Wayanad
Explanation:
Wayanad district in Kerala has become the first district in the country to complete Aadhaar
enrolment of children below five years.
• District Collector Renu Raj announced the meritorious achievement at Poothadi in the district
on Children’s Day on November 14, 2023.
• As many as 44,487 children got enrolled through mega camps at various Akshaya Kendras.
• The district administration launched a campaign titled ‘A for Aadhaar’ for the purpose with the
support of the Indian Postal Services, Dhanalakshmi Bank, Kerala State IT Mission, civic bodies,
and Tribal Development and Women and Child development departments.
209. In November 2023, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and
Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Eknath Shinde unveiled a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji
Maharaj in ___________ (district of J&K).
1) Udhampur
2) Anantnag
3) Srinagar
4) Kupwara
5) Shopian
Answer- 4) Kupwara
Explanation:
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath
Shinde unveiled a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Kupwara district of J&K.
• The equestrian statue of the Maratha warrior king has been installed at the Army's 41
Rashtriya Rifles Maratha Light Infantry Regiment in the north Kashmir district which shares its
border with Pakistan. Special prayers were held by a priest on the occasion.

210. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) signed a USD 200 million project with
the World Bank to increase power sector reforms?
1) Uttarakhand
2) Himachal Pradesh
3) West Bengal
4) Odisha
5) Jharkhand
Explanation:
In a significant move towards green energy expansion, the Government of India, the Government of
Himachal Pradesh, and the World Bank have signed a USD 200 million project aimed at advancing
power sector reforms in Himachal Pradesh.
i. According to a press release by the World Bank, the project will focus on increasing the share of
renewable energy (RE) in the state's electricity generation, aligning with Himachal Pradesh's goal to
add 10,000 megawatts of additional RE capacity.
211. In November 2023, ___________ became the first Indian carrier to have over 2,000 scheduled
or planned flights daily.
1) IndiGo
2) SpiceJet
3) Air India
4) Vistara
5) Go First
Answer- 1) IndiGo
Explanation:
IndiGo has become the first Indian carrier to have over 2,000 scheduled or planned flights daily.
i. The Rahul Bhatia-founded airline, which started flying on August 4, 2006, had in December 2017
become the first Indian carrier to operate 1,000 flightsin a day with the budget carrier taking over 11
years to reach that milestone.
ii. The second 1,000 came much faster in just six years despite a fallout between the airline's two
founder-promoters and then Covid.
212. What is the capital of Uzbekistan?

1) Ashgabat
2) Hanoi
3) Dushanbe
4) Tashkent
5) Damascus
Answer- 4) Tashkent
Explanation:
About Uzbekistan:
Capital– Tashkent
Currency– Uzbekistani Som
President– Shavkat Mirziyoyev

213. In which state Kalesar National Park is located?

1) Gujarat
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Rajasthan
4) Haryana
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 4) Haryana
Explanation:
About Haryana:
Governor – Bandaru Dattatreya
Zoological Park – Mini Zoo and Rohtak Zoo
National Park- Sultanpur National Park, Kalesar National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary – Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary, Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary
214. In which state ‘Dr Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden’ is located?

1) Uttar Pradesh
2) West Bengal
3) Gujarat
4) Maharashtra
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 3) Gujarat
Explanation:
About Gujarat:
Chief Minister– Bhupendrabhai Patel
Governor– Acharya Devvrat
Wildlife Sanctuary– Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary; Kutch Desert Sanctuary
Zoological Park– Sakkarbaug zoo; Dr Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden (Sarthana
Nature Park)
215. In which state ‘Salonibari airport’ is located?

1) Assam
2) Sikkim
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 1) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
Airports- Jorhat Airport (Rowriah Airport); Salonibari airport
Wildlife Sanctuary- Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary; Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary

216. The National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary is located in __________ (state).
1) Bihar
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Jharkhand
5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
Chief Minister– Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Governor– Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
National Park– Madhav National Park; Satpura National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary– National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, Kheoni Wildlife Sanctuary
217. In November 2023, The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) declared about the
development of Cyclone Midhili in the northwest Bay of Bengal.
The name ‘Midhili’ was given by the _______________.
1) Maldives
2) Sri Lanka
3) Yemen
4) Myanmar
5) Thailand
Answer- 1) Maldives
Explanation:
In November 2023, The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) declared about the development of
Cyclone Midhili in the northwest Bay of Bengal.
• Cyclone Midhili is the second cyclone to hit the Bangladesh coast in quick succession after
cyclone Hamoon.
• The name ‘Midhili’ was given by the Maldives. Countries affected by the Arabian Sea and Bay
of Bengal cyclones rotationally give names of cyclones in a sequence. On October 25, 2023
cyclone Hamoon had crossed near southern Chittagong.
• Under the influence of Cyclone Midhili, heavy rainfall is forecasted in the coastal regions of
Odisha, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram with wind speed blowing in the range between 40
kmph and 70 kmph.
218. Where is the Headquarters of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organisation (WEDO)?

1) Paris, France
2) Manila, Philippines
4) Vienna, Austria
5) New York, United States of America (USA)
Answer- 5) New York, United States of America (USA)
Explanation:
About Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organisation (WEDO):
CEO and Founder– Wendy Diamond

Headquarters– New York, United States of America

Founded in– 2013
219. In which state Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Kerala
3) Tamil Nadu
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Telangana
Answer- 2) Kerala
Explanation:
About Kerala:
Governor– Arif Mohammad Khan
National Parks– Eravikulam National Park, Silent Valley National Park, and Pampadum Shola
National Park.
Wildlife Sanctuaries– Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, and Wayanad
Wildlife Sanctuary.
220. In which country, ‘Mount Etna’ is located?

1) Chile
2) Ethiopia
3) Italy
4) Indonesia
5) Philippines
Answer- 3) Italy
Explanation:
Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, shoots plumes of smoke and ashes with eruptions, as seen
from Mount Salto Del Cane, Italy on November 12, 2023.
• In November 2023, shifting magma under the Earth’s crust triggered hundreds of earthquakes
around the town of Grindavik in Iceland, with seismologists warning the quakes could be a
precursor to a volcanic eruption.
• Italy’s Mount Etna, which is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, was causing public
concern as well — it started erupting the year before.
• Mount Etna is Europe’s most active volcano and one of the largest in the world. Its recorded
volcanic activity dates back to 1500 B.C. Since then, it has erupted more than 200 times.
221. Titan is the moon (natural satellite) of which planet?

1) Saturn
2) Mars
3) Jupiter
4) Neptune
5) Venus
Answer- 1) Saturn

Explanation:
Titan is the moon (natural satellite) of Saturn planet.
According to a 2018 report by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Saturn
would probably lose its rings completely in the next 300 million years, or even sooner than that.
• In 2025, however, Saturn’s rings will seemingly disappear from view. It isn’t as if the planet
will lose them forever. The rings will just be invisible from Earth and will reappear soon
thereafter. The reason for this temporary disappearance has to do with Saturn’s tilt and an
optical illusion.
• Saturn takes 29.5 years to complete an orbit around the Sun and every 13 to 15 years, the edge
of its rings aligns directly with Earth. As the rings are very thin — in most places, just tens of
metres thick — at this position, “they reflect very little light, and are very difficult to see,
making them essentially invisible,
222. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Electoral Trusts Scheme
2013?
A) Electoral Trust is a Trust set up by companies with the sole objective to distribute the
contributions received by it from other Companies and individuals to the political parties.
B) Only the companies registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 are eligible to
make an application for approval as an Electoral Trust.
C) The electoral trusts have to apply for renewal every 5 financial years.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Electoral Trusts Scheme, 2013 was notified by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). An
Electoral Trust is a Trust set up by companies with the sole objective to distribute the contributions
received by it from other Companies and individuals to the political parties.
i.Only the companies registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 are eligible to make an
application for approval as an Electoral Trust. The electoral trusts have to apply for renewal every
three financial years.
ii. The provisions related to the electoral trust are under Income-tax Act, 1961 and Income tax rules-
1962.
iii. Contributions to Electoral Trusts- They may receive contributions from:
• An individual who is a citizen of India
• A company registered in India
• A firm or Hindu undivided family or an Association of persons or a body of individuals, resident
in India.
iv. They shall not accept contributions from
• An individual who is not a citizen of India or from any foreign entity whether incorporated or
not and
• Any other electoral trust registered under the scheme.

223. On November 5, 2023, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked
measures under Stage 4 of the GRAP after the Nation Capital Region’s Air Quality Index (AQI)
deteriorated to the 'severe' category.
In GRAP, what does ‘A’ stand for?
1) Air
2) Action
3) Access
4) Accurate
5) Atmosphere
Answer- 2) Action
Explanation:
With the Nation Capital Region’s Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorating to the ‘severe’ category, the
Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a statutory body responsible for formulating
strategies to combat pollution in the region, on November 5, 2023 invoked measures under Stage 4 of
the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect.
• GRAP is a set of emergency measures that kick in to prevent further deterioration of air quality
once it reaches a certain threshold in the Delhi-NCR region.
• Approved by the Supreme Court in 2016 and notified in 2017, the plan was formulated after
several meetings that the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA)
held with state government representatives and experts.
• The result was a plan that institutionalised measures to be taken when air quality deteriorates.
GRAP is incremental in nature and thus, when the air quality dips from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor,’
measures listed under both sections have to be followed.
224. The Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) is a scheme set up by the Government of
India (GoI) for providing Mudra Loans up to Rs. ____________ for non-farm income-generating
activities.
1) 10 lakhs
2) 6 lakhs
3) 15 lakhs
4) 5 lakhs
5) 20 lakhs
Answer- 1) 10 lakhs
Explanation:
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) is a flagship scheme of the Government of India to extend
affordable credit to micro and small enterprises. Mudra schemes are designed to bring enterprises
into the formal financial system or to “fund the unfunded”.
• It enables a small borrower to borrow from all Public Sector Banks such as PSU Banks,
Regional Rural Banks and Cooperative Banks, Private Sector Banks, Foreign Banks, Micro
Finance Institutions (MFI), and Non Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) for loans upto Rs 10
lakhs for non-farm income-generating activities.
• Any Indian citizen who has a business plan for a non-farm sector income generating activity
such as manufacturing, processing, trading, or the service sector and whose credit need is less
than Rs 10 lakh can approach either a bank, MFI, or NBFC for availing of Micro Units
Development & Refinance Agency Ltd. (MUDRA) loans under PMMY.

• Types of loans provided: Under the aegis of PMMY, MUDRA has already created the following
products
• Shishu: covering loans upto 50,000/-
• Kisho: covering loans above 50,000/- and upto 5 lakh
• Tarun: covering loans above 5 lakh and upto 10 lakh
• There is no subsidy for the loan given under PMMY.
225. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) countries operate as an
organization that seeks to further economic cooperation amongst member nations and
increase their economic and political standing in the world.
The term was initially created as BRIC (without South Africa) by Goldman Sachs economist
__________ in 2001.
1) Cliff Asness
2) Joseph Briggs
3) Supriya Kumar
4) Guy Adami
5) Jim O'Neill
Answer- 5) Jim O'Neill
Explanation:
BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The term was initially created
as BRIC (without South Africa) by Goldman Sachs economist Jim O'Neill in 2001.
• The BRICS countries operate as an organization that seeks to further economic cooperation
amongst member nations and increase their economic and political standing in the world.
226. Name India’s first ‘Vertical Lift Railway Bridge’ that connects Rameswaram Island with the
mainland of Tamil Nadu.
1) Pamban railway bridge
2) Anji Khad Bridge
3) Silver Jubilee Railway
4) Vembanad Rail Bridge
5) Godavari Bridge
Answer- 1) Pamban railway bridge
Explanation:
New Pamban Bridge is India’s first vertical-lift railway sea bridge. It connects Rameswaram on
Pamban Island to Mandapam on the mainland in Tamil Nadu.
• The total length of the bridge is 2.078 km. It will have 99 spans with 18.3-meter-long girders.
The navigational span will be 63 meters. It will replace the iconic Pamban Bridge, India's first
sea bridge, which opened in 1914.
• The new bridge is being built parallel to the old Pamban Bridge by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited.
227. In which state Tadoba Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Tripura
2) Mizoram
3) Madhya Pradesh
4) Uttarakhand

5) Maharashtra
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Chief Minister – Eknath Shinde
Tiger Reserves – Melghat Tiger Reserve, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Tadoba Tiger Reserve
228. In which state ‘Harike Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Punjab
2) Haryana
3) Gujarat
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 1) Punjab
Explanation:
About Punjab:
Governor– Banwarilal Purohit
Chief Minister– Bhagwant Singh Mann
Wildlife Sanctuary– Harike Wildlife Sanctuary, Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary
229. In which state Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary is located?

1) Tamil Nadu
2) Karnataka
3) Mizoram
4) West Bengal
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary is situated in Nanguneri Taluk of Tirunelveli district of Tamil
Nadu. This is the largest reserve for breeding resident and migratory water birds in South India.
i. In 2022, Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary from Tamil Nadu, India was added to the Ramsar Sites.
230. In which state Vembanad lake is located?

1) Karnataka
2) Gujarat
3) Odisha
4) Kerala
5) West Bengal
Answer- 4) Kerala
Explanation:
Vembanad lake, the second largest Ramsar site in India (Kerala) after the Sunderbans in West
Bengal, is shrinking and its unique biodiversity is under threat of ecological decay.
i. Ramsar Site: In 2002, the lake was included in the list of wetlands of international importance, as
defined by the Ramsar Convention.

231. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman-cum-Managing Director of National
Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC)?
1) Naveen Shah
2) Jawahar Kumar
3) Ravideep Singh Chahar
4) Vanjulavalli Sridhar
5) Sivagnana Ganesan
Answer- 1) Naveen Shah
Explanation:
About National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC):
It is a Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) under the aegis of DEPwDS, MoSJE.
Chairman-cum-Managing Director– Naveen Shah
232. What is the currency of Luxembourg?

1) Franc
2) Riel
3) Peso
4) Taka
5) Euro
Answer- 5) Euro
Explanation:
About Luxembourg:
Prime Minister– Luc Frieden (Head of Government)
Capital– Luxembourg city
Currency– Euro
233. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of Council for Insurance Ombudsman (CIO)?
1) Anil Kumar
2) Vinod Kumar Verma
3) R Doraiswamy
4) Siddhartha Mohanty
5) M. Jagannath
Answer- 4) Siddhartha Mohanty
Explanation:
About Insurance Ombudsman:
Insurance Ombudsman is a quasi-judicial grievance redressal machinery to redress complaints of
insured persons against life and non- life insurance companies.
The offices of the Insurance Ombudsman are under the administrative control of the Council for
Insurance Ombudsman (CIO).
Chairman of CIO– Siddhartha Mohanty

234. Who is the Director- General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)?

1) Ajay Gupta
2) Kishore K. Basa
3) Praveen Sharma
4) Atish Mathur
5) Jyanath Kumar
Answer- 2) Kishore K. Basa
Explanation:
About Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Director- General– Prof. Kishore K. Basa
235. In which state ‘Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar Sports Stadium’ is located?

1) Gujarat
2) Jharkhand
3) Maharashtra
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
About Uttar Pradesh:
Chief Minister– Yogi Adityanath
Governor– Anandiben Patel
Stadiums– Amitabh Bachchan Sports Stadium (Indoor) and Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar Sports
Stadium (Outdoor)
236. In which state ‘Bir Dosanjh Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Rajasthan
2) Maharashtra
3) Punjab
4) Gujarat
5) Jharkhand
Answer- 3) Punjab
Explanation:
About Punjab:
Chief Minister (CM)– Bhagwant Mann
Governor– Banwarilal Purohit
Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) – Bir Dosanjh WLS; Bir Bhadson WLS
Zoological Parks – Bir Motibagh; Bir Talab; Neelon
237. In which state ‘Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Himachal Pradesh
2) Uttarakhand
3) Maharashtra

5) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation:
Chief Minister– Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Governor– Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
National Park– Kuno National Park; Ghughwa National fossils Park
Wildlife Sanctuary– Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary; Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary
238. In which state ‘Tata Steel Zoological Park' is located?

1) Uttar Pradesh
2) West Bengal
3) Odisha
4) Jharkhand
5) Rajasthan
Explanation:
About Jharkhand:
Chief Minister (CM) – Hemant Soren
Governor – C.P. Radhakrishnan
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Palamu Wildlife Sanctuary; Palkot Wildlife Sanctuary
Zoological Park – Tata Steel Zoological Park; Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park
239. What is the capital of the United Republic of Tanzania?

1) Khartoum
2) Dodoma
3) Kampala
4) Lusaka
5) Harare
Answer- 2) Dodoma
Explanation:
About the United Republic of Tanzania:
Prime Minister – Kassim Majaliwa
Capital – Dodoma City
Currency – Tanzanian Shilling (TSh)
240. The Kais Wildlife Sanctuary is located in ____________.

1) Himachal Pradesh
2) Gujarat
3) Uttarakhand
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Uttar Pradesh

Explanation:
About Himachal Pradesh (HP):
Chief Minister (CM)– Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Governor– Shiv Pratap Shukla
WildLife Sanctuary -Gamgul-Siyabehi Wildlife Sanctuary, Kais Wildlife Sanctuary
Festival– Halda, Phagli
241. In which state, ‘Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Kerala
4) Karnataka
5) Telangana
Explanation:
About Tamil Nadu (TN):
Chief Minister– Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin
Governor– Ravindra Narayana Ravi
Wildlife Sanctuary– Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary, Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary,
Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserve– Mudumalai Tiger Reserve; Anamalai Tiger Reserve
242. In which year, the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)
was established?
1) 1920
2) 1942
3) 1930
4) 1946
5) 1952
Answer- 1) 1920
Explanation:
About the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM):
President- Ajay Singh
Establishment- 1920
243. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) President of Asian Development Bank (ADB)?
1) Masatsugu Asakawa
2) Kristalina Georgieva
3) Ilene Cohn
4) David Robert Malpass
5) Achim Steiner
Answer- 1) Masatsugu Asakawa

Explanation:
About Asian Development Bank (ADB):
President– Masatsugu Asakawa
Headquarters– Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Members– 68 members (49 from Asian and the Pacific and 19 outside)
244. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
located?
2) Rome, Italy
4) Madrid, Spain
5) Paris, France
Answer- 4) Madrid, Spain
Explanation:
About United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO):
Secretary-General– Zurab Pololikashvili
Headquarters– Madrid, Spain
245. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of ICRA Limited?
1) Jayanta Chatterjee
2) Ramnath Krishnan
3) Amit Gupta
4) Venkatesh Viswanathan
5) Sushmita Ghatak
Answer- 2) Ramnath Krishnan
Explanation:
About ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India
Limited):
Managing Director & Group CEO of ICRA– Ramnath Krishnan
Headquarters– Gurugram, Haryana
Established in 1991
246. What is the tagline of South Indian Bank?

1) Experience Next-Generation Banking
3) We Understand Your World
4) Serving To Empower
5) Your Family Bank Across India
Answer- 1) Experience Next-Generation Banking

Explanation:
About South Indian Bank:
Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– P R Seshadri
Tagline– Experience Next-Generation Banking
Established in 1929
247. In which year, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is established?

1) 1959
2) 1946
3) 1964
4) 1952
5) 1972
Answer- 2) 1946
Explanation:
About United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF):
Executive Director– Catherine Russell
Headquarters– New York, USA
Established on– 11 December 1946. (In 1953, UNICEF became a permanent part of the UN)
248. The Communal Harmony Campaign and FundRaising Week 2023 is being observed from
__________ 2023 by the National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCH).
1) 17th to 23rd November
2) 20th to 26th November
4) 21st to 27th November
Answer- 3) 19th to 25th November
Explanation:
The National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCH) observes Communal Harmony Campaign
and FundRaising Week every year from 19th to 25th November and the last working day of this week
is observed as the Flag Day.
• The Communal Harmony Campaign and FundRaising Week 2023 is being observed from 19th
to 25th November 2023.
i. The communal harmony campaign week has two main objectives:
• to raise donations for the physical & psychological support of the orphan or destitute children
affected by violence; and
• to promote fraternity among the people, maintain peace & communal harmony and National
integration
249. Which start-up company has recently (in Nov ‘23) named as the winner of the ‘Smarter
Climate Farmers Challenge’ in November 2023?
1) Dvara E-Registry
2) AgVisi
3) Agrigator
4) AgroNxt Services

5) Agri Fi
Answer- 1) Dvara E-Registry
Explanation:
Dvara E-Registry has been adjudged as one of the winners of the ‘Smarter Climate Farmers
Challenge’, organised by UpLink, the open innovation platform of the World Economic Forum.
• Dvara E-Registry is an ag-fintech start-up building a digital platform to improve access to
agricultural services, both financial and advisory, for all stakeholders in the agri value chain
• The company's digital platforms are paving the way for a new era of sustainable farming and
financial inclusion for smallholder farmers across India.
• With its innovative digital platforms designed to bolster climate-smart farming, Dvara E-
Registry now joins the ranks of UpLink’s venerated community of Top Innovators.
250. In November 2023, Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME),
Narayan Rane, inaugurated the “MSME PAVILION” at the ______ India International Trade Fair
(IITF) held in New Delhi, Delhi.
1) 39th
2) 42nd
3) 37th
4) 40th
5) 38th
Answer- 2) 42nd
Explanation:
Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Shri Narayan Rane, inaugurated the
“MSME PAVILION” at the 42nd India International Trade Fair (IITF) in the presence of senior officers
from the Ministry and its organizations.
• The MSME Pavilion has been organized in Hall No. 4 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Delhi.
• This year's MSME Pavilion at the 42nd India International Trade Fair (IITF) is based on the
theme “PM Vishwakarma”, the flagship scheme of the Ministry of MSME launched on
17.09.2023 by the Prime Minister of India.
251. Who authored the book, Kashmir: Book 3 of The Partition Trilogy in November 2023?
1) Preeti Shenoy
2) Anita Nair
3) Manreet Sodhi Someshwar
4) Samit Basu
5) Krishna Udayasankar
Answer- 3) Manreet Sodhi Someshwar
Explanation:
In November 2023, HarperCollins India presented Kashmir: Book 3 of The Partition Trilogy by
Manreet Sodhi Someshwar.
• Manreet Sodhi Someshwar is a bestselling author of nine books, including the award-winning
The Radiance of a Thousand Suns and the critically acclaimed The Long Walk Home.

252. In November 2023, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) launched a rating and
certification initiative called ‘Nest’.
Where is the Headquarters of IGBC located?
1) Bengaluru, Karnataka
4) New Delhi, Delhi
5) Hyderabad, Telangana
Answer- 5) Hyderabad, Telangana
Explanation:
Recently, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) launched a rating and certification initiative called
‘Nest’.
• It is to promote sustainable and eco-friendly construction in the domestic housing sector. It
would pave the way for individual house owners and the residential sector to adopt green
building features in a big way to help bring down electricity consumption and water usage and
create a healthy living space.
• The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
was formed in the year 2001. The vision of the council is, "To enable a sustainable built
environment for all and facilitate India to be one of the global leaders in the sustainable built
environment by 2025".
• The Headquarters of Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is located in Hyderabad,
Telangana.
253. In November 2023, Indian Navy Ship (INS) Sumedha in continuation with Indian Navy
mission-based deployment to West Africa and Atlantic made a port call at Walvis Bay, Namibia.
Which company designed and built the INS) Sumedha?
1) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
2) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
3) Hindustan Shipyard Limited
4) Goa Shipyard Limited
5) Cochin Shipyard Limited
Answer- 4) Goa Shipyard Limited
Explanation:
In a strategic move as part of the Indian Navy’s mission-based deployment to West Africa and the
Atlantic, INS Sumedha conducted a port call at Walvis Bay.
About Walvis Bay:
• It is strategically located halfway down the coast of Namibia, with direct access to principal
shipping routes. This strategic location has made it the gateway port for trade between
landlocked African countries and the rest of the world.
• It is lying along the Atlantic Ocean. The town of Walvis Bay lies on the edge of the Namib Desert
at the mouth of the intermittently flowing Kuiseb River.
INS Sumedha:
• It is the third ship of the indigenously built Saryu class Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPV).
It was indigenously designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited.

• It was commissioned into the Indian Navy on March 7, 2014. It is part of the Indian Navy's
Eastern Fleet, based in Visakhapatnam.
254. Which country’s cleantech startup She-Guard won the ‘ClimateLaunchpad Asia-Pacific’
competition in November 2023?
1) Nepal
2) Pakistan
3) India
4) Bangladesh
5) Bhutan
Answer- 2) Pakistan
Explanation:
Pakistan-based cleantech startup She-Guard won the ‘ClimateLaunchpad Asia-Pacific’
competition, showcasing their innovative biodegradable and plastic-free sanitary product.
• The startup’s mission is to transform banana crop waste into affordable, eco-friendly sanitary
napkins, addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change, public health and solid
waste management in Pakistan.
• She-Guard faced stiff competition from 172 other teams from six countries in the Asia-Pacific in
the finals.
• The event hosted by national partner Centre4 Creativity & Sustainability, and funded by the
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Ireland (Irish Aid), served as a platform for climate
innovators to present their solutions.
255. Ben Gurion Canal Project will connect the Mediterranean Sea with the ___________ (Gulf),
bypassing the Suez Canal.
1) Gulf of Aqaba
2) Gulf of Honduras
3) Gulf of Aden
4) Gulf of Bothnia
5) Gulf of Guinea
Answer- 1) Gulf of Aqaba
Explanation:
Recently, there has been renewed interest in the Ben Gurion Canal Project, a proposed 160-mile-long
sea-level canal that would connect the Mediterranean Sea with the Gulf of Aqaba, bypassing the Suez
Canal.
• Originating in the 1960s, the Ben Gurion Canal Project was conceptualized as a transformative
infrastructure initiative. Named after Israel's founding father, David Ben-Gurion (1886-1973),
reflecting its historical significance.
• The Suez Canal is a man-made waterway that opened in 1869 running north to south across
the Isthmus of Suez in Egypt, that connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, allowing a
shorter route for shipping between Europe and Asia. The canal separates the African continent
from Asia.
• The Suez Canal is a vital trade route that accounts for approximately 12% of global trade
passes through the Suez Canal, representing 30% of all global container traffic, and over USD 1
trillion worth of goods per annum.

256. Tanzanian ____________ is the Currency of Tanzania.

1) Koruna
2) Sterling
3) Krone
4) Shilling
5) Lats
Answer- 4) Shilling
Explanation:
About Tanzania:
Prime Minister – Kassim Majaliwa
Capital – Dodoma
Currency – Tanzanian Shilling (TSh)
257. In which state ‘Saman Bird Sanctuary’ is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Kerala
5) Odisha
Explanation:
The Saman Bird Sanctuary in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh is a seasonal oxbow lake on
the Ganges floodplain. It is heavily reliant on the arrival of the south-westerly monsoon in July and
August, which provides the vast majority of annual rainfall.
258. In which state, ‘Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Maharashtra
3) Uttarakhand
4) Karnataka
5) Assam
Explanation:
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Khanapur taluk, Karnataka-Goa border in Belagavi
district, and is spread over an area of around 190 sq km.
i. This sanctuary is known for the Barapede caves, the only known breeding area of the Wroughton’s
Free-tailed Bat, a threatened species on the verge of extinction.
259. Argentine _______ is the currency of Argentina.

1) Franc
2) Riel
3) Peso
4) Taka
5) Euro
Answer- 3) Peso

Explanation:
About Argentina:
President Elect– Javier Milei
Capital– Buenos Aires
Currency– Argentine Peso
260. Where is the Headquarters of National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with
Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) located?
1) Pune, Maharashtra
2) Gandhinagar, Gujarat
3) Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
4) Dehradun, Uttarakhand
5) Patna, Bihar
Answer- 4) Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Explanation:
About National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD):
It is under the administrative control of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities,
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Offg/Officiating Director– Er. Manish Verma
Headquarters– Dehradun, Uttarakhand
261. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) chairman of Inland Waterways Authority of India
(IWAI)?
1) R. Lakshmanan
2) Sanjay Bandopadhyaya
3) Sunil Kumar Singh
4) Ashutosh Gautam
5) Vinayak Azad
Answer- 2) Sanjay Bandopadhyaya
Explanation:
About Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI):
Chairperson– Sanjay Bandopadhyaya
Headquarters– Noida, Uttar Pradesh (UP)
Parent Ministry– Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
262. In which year Survey of India (SoI) was established?

1) 1703
2) 1892
3) 1937
4) 1767
5) 1930
Answer- 4) 1767

Explanation:
About Survey of India (SoI):
Surveyor General of India– Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana
Headquarters– Dehradun, Uttarakhand
263.Who is the current (as of Nov’ 23) Director General Postal Services of India Post?
1) Gaurav Kumar Saini
2) Alok Sharma
3) Neeraj Mehrotra
4) Abhishek Kumar Singh
5) Ajay Singh
Answer- 2) Alok Sharma
Explanation:
About India Post:
India Post functions under Department of Post, Ministry of Communications
Director General (Posts) – Alok Sharma
264. ____________ is the Nodal Ministry of PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surakshaevam
Utthaan Mahabhiyan Yojana) scheme.
1) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
2) Ministry of Jal Shakti
3) Ministry of Power
5) Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
Answer- 1) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
Explanation:
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surakshaevam Utthaan Mahabhiyan Yojana (PM-KUSUM Scheme) was
launched in March 2019 by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), to subsidize farmers to
install solar irrigation pumps for cultivation.
265. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)?
1) Shirley Garrood
2) Richard Sharp
3) Dame Elan Closs Stephens
4) Tim Davie
5) Damon Buffini
Answer- 3) Dame Elan Closs Stephens
Explanation:
About British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC):
Chairman– Dame Elan Closs Stephens
Headquarters– London, United Kingdom

266. In which state ‘Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) West Bengal
3) Jharkhand
4) Maharashtra
5) Chhattisgarh
Explanation:
About Chhattisgarh:
Governor – Biswabhusan Harichandan
Wildlife Sanctuaries – Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary, Badalkhol Wildlife Sanctuary
267. What is the capital of Nigeria?

1) Abuja
2) Niamey
3) Maputo
4) Kigali
5) Bamako
Answer- 1) Abuja
Explanation:
About Nigeria:
Capital – Abuja
Currency – Nigerian naira (NGN)
President – Bola Ahmed Tinubu
268. In which state Panidihing Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) Maharashtra
3) Assam
4) Gujarat
5) Madhya Pradesh
Answer- 3) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
Governor –Gulab Chand Kataria
Chief Minister – Himanta Biswa Sarma
National Parks – Orang National Park, Dihing Patkai National Park, Raimona National Park
Wild life Sanctuaries – Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, Panidihing Wildlife Sanctuary
269. In which state ‘Chandoli National Park’ is located?

1) Uttar Pradesh
2) Maharashtra
3) Gujarat

4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Chief Minister– Eknath Shinde
National Parks– Chandoli National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Pench National Park
270. When was the ‘Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)’ established?
1) 1992
2) 1987
3) 1972
4) 1962
5) 1959
Answer- 2) 1987
Explanation:
About Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA):
IREDA is a Mini Ratna (Category I) Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) administered by MNRE. It is a
public limited government company incorporated as a non-banking financial institution (NBFI).
Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) – Pradip Kumar Das
Motto – “Energy for Ever”
271. What is the Tagline of Punjab & Sind Bank?

1) We understand your world
2) The Banker To Every Indian
4) Where service is a way of life
Answer- 4) Where service is a way of life
Explanation:
About Punjab & Sind Bank:
Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Swarup Kumar Saha
Headquarters– New Delhi (Delhi)
Tagline– Where service is a way of life
272. The Simlipal National Park is located in ____________ (state).

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Odisha
3) Jharkhand
4) West Bengal
5) Uttar Pradesh
Answer- 2) Odisha

Explanation:
About Odisha:
Chief Minister(CM)– Naveen Patnaik
Governor– Raghubar Das
Capital– Bhubneswar
National Park– Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park
273. Who is currently (as of Nov ‘23) President of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and
Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)?
1) Rahul Bhatia
2) Gaurav M. Negi
3) Vinay Dube
4) Ajay Singh
5) Rakesh Gangwal
Answer- 4) Ajay Singh
Explanation:
About the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM):
President- Ajay Singh
Establishment- 1920
274. Which company has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the Economic Times HR World Exceptional
Employee Experience Award 2023 (ET HR WORLD EX Awards) in the ‘Large Scale Enterprise’
category?
1) NTPC Limited
2) NHPC Limited
3) Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
4) Power Grid Corporation of India
5) Hindustan Petroleum Limited
Answer- 2) NHPC Limited
Explanation:
NHPC Limited has won the prestigious ‘The Economic Times HR World Exceptional Employee
Experience Award 2023 (ET HR WORLD EX Awards) in ‘Large Scale Enterprise’ category. The award
was presented in a glittering ceremony organized by ET HR World at Bengaluru on 22nd November
2023.
• The Award has been conferred to NHPC in recognition to its wide range of Employees Centric
HR initiatives which are not limited to employees only but also extended to their families.
• It is also a recognition to NHPC’s organizational culture, which despite tough geographic and
climatic challenges, is not only nurturing the employees during their service but also extending
good care & support after their superannuation.
275. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) nominated as the Chairman of the Indian Chamber of
Commerce-Bihar (ICC-Bihar)?
1) Jayanth Kumar
2) Umesh Gupta

3) Ajay Kumar
4) P K Sinha
5) Praveen Sharma
Answer- 4) P K Sinha
Explanation:
P K Sinha has been nominated as the Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce-Bihar (ICC-
Bihar). The release form ICC said that this appointment is a testament to Sinha's leadership skills,
industry knowledge, and commitment to the economic development of Bihar.
i. Sinha brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having played pivotal roles in various capacities
within the business community.
276. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chief of the Air Staff of India?
1) Amar Preet Singh
2) Pankaj Mohan Sinha
3) Vivek Ram Chaudhari
4) S Prabhakaran
5) Vikram Singh
Answer- 3) Vivek Ram Chaudhari
Explanation:
Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari is the present Chief of the Air Staff of India.
• The Indian Air Force is working on a project to develop an indigenous jammer pod for the
homegrown LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft,
• Meanwhile, Vice President of Solar Group Economic Explosives Limited, Colonel Vikram said
that the multimode hand grenade is the first product that a private industry manufactured
indigenously and handed over to the Indian Army other than the ordnance factories.
• This is a very safe prototype and advanced prototype of a hand grenade. It has added safety
features as well and its efficacies are much more than the erstwhile HE 36 hand grenade.
• The LCA Mk1A is an improved variant of the indigenously developed LCA MK1. It has
additional features and improvements such as a Self Protection Jammer.
277. Hitendra Dave is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of _________
(Bank).
1) Citibank
2) HSBC India
3) DBS Bank India
4) CSB Bank
5) Standard Chartered
Explanation:
About HSBC India:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Hitendra Dave
Established in -1853

278. In which state ‘Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Assam
2) Sikkim
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Uttarakhand
Answer- 1) Assam
Explanation:
About Assam:
Airports- Jorhat Airport (Rowriah Airport); Salonibari airport
Wildlife Sanctuary- Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary; Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary
279. In which state ‘Kurinjimala Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Kerala
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Karnataka
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Telangana
Answer- 1) Kerala
Explanation:
About Kerala:
Chief Minister– Pinarayi Vijayan
Governor– Arif Mohammed Khan
Wildlife Sanctuary– Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary; Kurinjimala Wildlife Sanctuary
Zoological Park– Thiruvananthapuram Zoological Park; Thrissur Zoo & Museum
280. Where is the Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) located?
1) Paris, France
2) Madrid, Spain
4) Rome, Italy
Explanation:
About World Meteorological Organization (WMO):
WMO is a UN Agency dedicated to international cooperation and coordination on the state and
behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere.
Secretary-General– Prof. Petteri Taalas

281. Which of the following is used as the common identifier for all digital systems of specified
govt agencies?
1) Legal Entity Identifier
2) Universal Account Number
3) Mobile Money Identifier
4) Permanent Account Number
5) Indian Financial System Code
Answer- 4) Permanent Account Number
Explanation:
Permanent Account Number (PAN) used as a common identifier for all digital systems of specified
government agencies.
• The move would help in further promoting ease of doing business in the country.
i. PAN is a 10-digit alphanumeric number allotted by the income tax department to a person, firm or
entity.
282. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI (National
Institution for Transforming India) Aayog?
1) Suman K Bery
2) B. V. R. Subrahmanyam
3) Urvashi Prasad
4) Shashi Singh
5) Ramesh Chand
Answer- 2) B. V. R. Subrahmanyam
Explanation:
About NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– B. V. R. Subrahmanyam
283. In which state, ‘Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary’ is located?

1) Kerala
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Karnataka
4) Andhra Pradesh
5) Telangana
Answer- 1) Kerala
Explanation:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary by spreading over 14 acres of land, located on the banks of the
Vembanad Lake, Kerala.
i. The sanctuary is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian Stork, egret, darter, heron and
teal.
284. In which state Udanti Sitanadi tiger reserve is located?

1) Odisha
2) Maharashtra
3) Madhya Pradesh

4) West Bengal
5) Chhattisgarh
Explanation:
The Udanti Sitanadi tiger reserve is located in Chhattisgarh. It was declared a tiger reserve in the
year 2008-09.
i. The Udanti and Sitanadi Rivers flow through the Reserve. There are few perennial springs including
the famous Deodhara and Godene falls. Asiatic Wild Buffalo is the key endangered species found in the
Core Area.
285. In which state Singalila National Park is located?

1) Bihar
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Sikkim
4) Assam
5) West Bengal
Explanation:
About West Bengal:
Capital- Kolkata
Chief Minister- Mamta Bannerjee
Governor- C.V. Ananda Bose
National Parks- Sundarbans National Park, Singalila National Park, Jaldapara National Park
Airport- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Bagdogra International Airport
286. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman of National Stock Exchange (NSE)?
1) Girish Chandra Chaturvedi
2) Sandeep Bakhshi
3) Atanu Chakraborty
4) Sashidhar Jagdishan
5) Sumant Kathpalia
Answer- 1) Girish Chandra Chaturvedi
Explanation:
About NSE(National Stock Exchange):
It is the largest financial market in India.
Established: 1992
Chairman: Girish Chandra Chaturvedi
Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
287. Where is the Headquarters of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO)?

1) Paris, France
2) Madrid, Spain
4) Rome, Italy

Answer- 5) London, United Kingdom

Explanation:
About International Sugar Organisation (ISO):
Executive Director– José Orive
Headquarters– London, United Kingdom
Members– 88 countries
288. In which year Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) was established?

1) 1995
2) 1990
3) 1998
4) 1992
5) 1997
Answer- 3) 1998
Explanation:
About Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL):
Managing Director (MD) – Kamal Kishore Chatiwal
289. In November 2023, India's professional Kho Kho league, Ultimate Kho Kho, became the
first sports league in India to secure private equity (PE) investment.
Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ultimate Kho Kho?
1) Jayanth Kumar
2) Tenzing Niyogi
3) Ajay Kumar
4) Praveen Sharma
5) Amit Burman
Answer- 2) Tenzing Niyogi
Explanation:
Tenzing Niyogi is the present Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ultimate Kho Kho.
• India's professional Kho Kho league, Ultimate Kho Kho, became the first sports league in India
to secure private equity (PE) investment. According to the announcement by the league, it has
secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group.
i. The league started in 2022. The inaugural season of Ultimate Kho Kho reached a noteworthy
milestone, garnering a substantial viewership of 164 million across a spectrum of media platforms
and 225 million video views on social media.
ii. Its second season is scheduled to be held from December 24 to January 14. The player auction for
the season was held in Bhubaneswar on November 21. India's top 145 players, including 33 young
talents, were selected by six franchises for the upcoming season.
290. In which state, Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Gujarat

3) Maharashtra
4) West bengal
5) Odisha
Explanation:
About Maharashtra:
Chief Minister- Eknath Shinde
UNESCO Heritage Sites – Ellora Caves , Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus ( formerly Victoria Terminus )
Sanctuary – Karnala Bird Sanctuary , Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary
291. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana implemented by _____________ Ministry.
1) Ministry of Finance
3) Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
5) Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Answer- 1) Ministry of Finance
Explanation:
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) Scheme under Ministry of Finance, is a one-year
life insurance scheme renewable from year to year offering coverage for death due to any reason.
Eligibility: Individuals in the age group of 18-50 years having a savings bank or a post office account
are entitled to enroll under the scheme.
• People who join the scheme before completing 50 years can, however, continue to have the risk
of life cover up to the age of 55 years subject to payment of premium.
292. In which state Kolana Airport is located?

1) Maharashtra
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Rajasthan
4) Jharkhand
5) Gujarat
Explanation:
About Rajasthan:
Chief Minister – Ashok Gehlot
Governor- Kalraj Mishra
Airports – Kolana Airport, Lalgarh Airport, Phalodi Air Force Station
293. In which state Thimlapura Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) West Bengal
3) Andhra Pradesh
4) Telangana
5) Karnataka

Explanation:
About Karnataka:
WildLife Sanctuary – Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Thimlapura Wildlife Sanctuary, Yadahalli
Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary
Bird Sanctuary-Adichunchanagiri Peacock Sanctuary, Attiveri Bird Sanctuary, Ghataprabha Bird
Sanctuary
294. Rengali Dam is located in ____________ (state).

1) Andhra Pradesh
2) Odisha
3) Gujarat
4) Assam
5) West Bengal
Answer- 2) Odisha
Explanation:
About Odisha:
Governor - Raghubar Das
Chief Minister- Naveen Patnaik
Dams – Hirakud dam, Rengali dam, Indravati dam, Jalaput dam (between Andhra Pradesh and
Odisha), Mandira dam, Patora dam.
295. The Gaza Strip is a Palestinian enclave on the eastern coast of the ________________ Sea.
1) Red
2) Mediterranean
3) Black
4) Tyrrhenian
5) Alboran
Answer- 2) Mediterranean
Explanation:
The Gaza Strip is a Palestinian enclave on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders
Egypt and Israel. The territories of Gaza and the West Bank are separated from each other by Israeli
territory
• Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh announced his movement was nearing a truce agreement with
Israel.
• Negotiators have been working to seal a deal to allow the release of around 240 mostly Israeli
hostages seized on 7th October 2023.
• Hamas fighters also killed around 1,200 people during their cross-border assault, most of them
civilians.
• Hamas, or the Islamic Resistance Movement, is a Palestinian militant and political organization
that emerged in the late 1980s during the First Intifada, which was a period of Palestinian
uprising against Israeli rule.
• Hamas has both political and military wings and has played a significant role in Palestinian
politics, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

296. Which ministry will organise the Sari Walkathon at Mumbai, Maharashtra in December
2023?
1) Ministry of Textiles
2) Ministry of Women and Child Development
3) Ministry of Education
5) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Answer- 1) Ministry of Textiles
Explanation:
The Ministry of Textiles is set to organise the Sari Walkathon at Mumbai, Maharashtra on 10th
December 2023 to promote handloom sari culture in India.
• In this walkathon, women from various states will be invited to showcase their ways of
wearing saris.
• The e-registration portal for the Sari Walkathon was launched by Darshana Jardosh, Union
Minister of State for Textiles.
• Participants can enrol for sari walkathon through the dedicated portal launched by the
Ministry of Textiles. The registration is OTP based. Darshana Jardosh was the first to register
herself with the portal.
297. Where is the Headquarters of UN Women located?

2) New York, United States of America
4) Rome, Italy
5) Paris, France
Answer- 2) New York, United States of America
Explanation:
About UN Women(UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women) :
Executive Director– Sima Sami Iskandar Bahous
Headquarters – New York, United States of America(USA)
298. In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das delivered
the inaugural address at FIBAC 2023.
Which of the following organisations has/have organised the FIBAC 2023?
1) Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
2) Indian Banks’ Association
3) Food Corporation of India
4) Both 1 & 2
5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das delivers the inaugural address at FIBAC
2023, organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Indian
Banks’ Association (IBA), in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

• The recent mandate to increase risk weights for unsecured consumer loans by banks and
NBFCs is a precautionary measure taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to ensure
sustainable lending.
299. Cambodian _______ is the currency of Cambodia.

1) Kyat
2) Riel
3) Peso
4) Taka
5) Rupiah
Answer- 2) Riel
Explanation:
About Cambodia:
Prime Minister – Hun Manet
Capital – Phnom Penh
Currency – Cambodian Riel
300. An under-construction Silkyara Bend-Barkot Tunnel in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand

collapsed in November 2023.
The Tunnel is around 4.5 Km long two-lane Bi-Directional tunnel with an escape passage on
Dharasu – _____________ (Pilgrims Place).
1) Chorabari
2) Badrinath
3) Gangotri
4) Yamunotri
5) Kedarnath
Answer- 4) Yamunotri
Explanation:
Recently, an under-construction Silkyara Bend-Barkot Tunnel along the Yamunotri National
Highway near Silkyara in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, collapsed, trapping a significant number of
workers inside.
i. The Under-Construction Uttarakhand Tunnel was being constructed under the Chardham Highway
Project and was tendered to Hyderabad-headquartered Navayuga Engineering Company by the
National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), a fully owned
company of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India.
• Char Dham Highway Project aims to enhance road connectivity and ensure the safety and
convenience of pilgrims traveling to Uttarakhand’s 4 major shrines viz. Badrinath, Kedarnath,
Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
ii. The Tunnel is around a 4.5 Km long two-lane Bi-Directional tunnel with an escape passage on
Dharasu –Yamunotri. The collapse happened about 270m from the entrance of the Silkyara side. It
will reduce the travel distance from Dharasu to Yamunotri by about 20 km and travel time by about
an hour.
ii. Traditionally, tunnels have been excavated in India: the drill and blast method (DBM) and the use of
tunnel boring machines (TBM).

301. The European Union was officially created by the ____________ treaty, which entered into
force on 1 November 1993.
1) Westphalia
2) Vienna
3) Bjorko
4) Versailles
5) Maastricht
Answer- 5) Maastricht
Explanation:
About European Union (EU):
Capital- Brussels, Belgium and Luxembourg(De Facto Capital)
Currency- Euro
Members – 27 member states (As of November 2023)
‘European Union’ is officially created by the Maastricht treaty, which enters into force on 1
November 1993
302. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IndiGo Airline?
1) Silver Munyaneza
2) Yvonne Manzi Makolo
3) Pieter Elbers
4) Stella Murungi
5) Isah Byarugaba
Answer- 3) Pieter Elbers
Explanation:
IndiGo Airline:
Chief Executive Officer – Pieter Elbers
Headquarters – Gurgaon, Haryana
303. Barda Wildlife Sanctuary (BWLS) is located in _________(state).

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Bihar
3) Gujarat
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 3) Gujarat
Explanation:
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary (BWLS) is located in the state of Gujarat.
• It lies roughly 15 kilometers from Porbandar and 100 kilometers west of Gir Forest National
Park.
• It has a hilly landscape, and the sanctuary sprawls over an area of 192.31 square kilometers.

304. Who has been recently (in Nov ‘23) appointed as the Secretary to the Vice President of
India, Jagdeep Dhankhar?
1) Ajay Kumar Bhalla
2) Sunil Kumar Gupta
3) Rajiv Gauba
4) Durga Shanker Mishra
5) Ajit Kumar Seth
Answer- 2) Sunil Kumar Gupta
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the re-employment of Sunil Kumar Gupta,
IAS as Secretary to the Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar post his superannuation on 31.12.2023, on
contract basis with effect from 01.01.2024, i.e. after his superannuation on 31.12.2023.
i. According to the order, the re-employment will be effective beyond his retirement next month-end.
Gupta, a 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from West Bengal cadre, was
appointed as the secretary to the vice president in August last year.
305. In which state ‘Satkosia Gorge sanctuary’ is located?

1) Bihar
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Odisha
4) Jharkhand
5) West Bengal
Answer- 3) Odisha
Explanation:
About Odisha:
Chief Minister(CM) – Naveen Patnaik
Governor – Raghubar Das
National Park – Bhitarkanika National Park, Simlipal National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary – Satkosia Gorge sanctuary, Nandankanan sanctuary
306. In November 2023, NASA's Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) experiment
successfully transmitted a near-infrared laser beam encoded with test data across the vast
expanse of space, covering a distance of nearly 10 million miles.
The transmission was received by the _________ (Telescope) located at Caltech's Palomar
Observatory in San Diego County, California.
1) Hubble Space Telescope
2) Hale Telescope
3) Hipparcos Telescope
4) Spitzer Space Telescope
5) Herschel Telescope
Answer- 2) Hale Telescope
Explanation:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Deep Space Optical Communications
(DSOC) experiment has successfully transmitted a near-infrared laser beam encoded with test data

across the vast expanse of space, covering a distance of nearly 10 million miles—approximately 40
times the distance between Earth and its moon.
i. This remarkable transmission was received by the Hale Telescope located at Caltech's Palomar
Observatory in San Diego County, California, marking the farthest-ever demonstration of optical
communications to date.
• The Hale Telescope is a 200-inch (5.1 m), f/3.3 reflecting telescope at the Palomar Observatory
in San Diego County, California, US, named after astronomer George Ellery Hale.
• The technology is integrated into Nasa's Psyche spacecraft, which embarked on its journey to
the asteroid belt on October 13.
• The spacecraft's mission is to explore the metal-rich asteroid Psyche 16, but it also plays a
crucial role in testing DSOC's high-bandwidth communication capabilities over the next two
years.
• The initial success, referred to as "first light," occurred on November 14 when DSOC's flight
laser transceiver, an advanced piece of equipment aboard the Psyche spacecraft, locked onto
an uplink laser beacon from JPL's Table Mountain Facility.
307. The term ‘A23a’ was mentioned in News, it refers to ______________.

1) Software tool to assemble genome sequences
2) A new carbon compound
3) Iceberg
4) Missile system of Israel
5) Indian Army Gun
Answer- 3) Iceberg
Explanation:
One of the world’s largest icebergs is drifting beyond Antarctic waters, after being grounded for more
than three decades, according to the British Antarctic Survey.
• The iceberg, known as A23a, split from the Antarctic’s Filchner Ice Shelf in 1986. But it
became stuck to the ocean floor and had remained for many years in the Weddell Sea.
• The iceberg is about three times the size of New York City and more than twice the size of
Greater London, measuring around 4,000 square kilometres (1,500 square miles).
• Andrew Fleming, a remote sensing expert from the British Antarctic Survey, told the BBC on
November 24 that the iceberg has been drifting for the past year and now appears to be picking
up speed and moving past the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, helped by wind and
ocean currents.
308. In which state, a statue of Former Prime Minister of India, Vishwanath Pratap Singh was
unveiled in November 2023?
1) Tamil Nadu
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Telangana
4) Karnataka
5) Odisha

Explanation:
Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin unveiled a statue of former prime minister of India Vishwanath
Pratap Singh (VP Singh) in Chennai's Presidency College to commemorate his 15th death
anniversary.
i. Singh is credited with the implementation of the Mandal Commission report, which paved the way
for 27% reservation for OBCs in central government jobs.
ii. The event was attended by Singh's family members and Samajwadi Party chief and former Uttar
Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, among others. Tamil Nadu provides 69% reservation in the
state.
309. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) President of Indian Dairy Association (IDA)?
1) Kishibhai Patel
2) Jayen Mehta
3) Shamalbhai B Patel
4) Valjibhai R Humbal
5) R.S. Sodhi
Answer- 5) R.S. Sodhi
Explanation:
About Indian Dairy Association (IDA):
President- R.S. Sodhi
Establishment- 1948
310. In which state ‘Shettihalli wildlife sanctuary’ is located?

1) Kerala
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Karnataka
4) Odisha
5) West Bengal
Explanation:
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently told the state government to resolve within six months
the issues that have led to the delay in the notification of eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) status for the
Shettihalli wildlife sanctuary.
• Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shimoga District of Karnataka. It spans an area of
395.6 square kilometres. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary on 23rd November 1974.
Mandagadde Natural Bird Sanctuary, present on a small island in the River Tunga is also a part
of this Sanctuary.
• National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a statutory body established by the Government under the
National Green Tribunal Act 2010.
• It is a quasi-judicial authority, which means it may issue orders binding on the government and
other public authorities. It has appellate jurisdiction to hear appeals as a court.
• It has a principal bench in New Delhi and four other benches in Chennai, Bhopal, Pune and
Kolkata.

• NGT is mandated to dispose of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of the filing of
the same.
311. Who is the present (as of Nov ‘23) Director General of National Cadet Corps (NCC)?
1) Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh
2) Lieutenant General Vikrant Prasher
3) Lieutenant General Prem Chand
4) Lieutenant General Surjeet Singh
5) Lieutenant General Virendra Singh
Answer- 1) Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh
Explanation:
About National Cadet Corps (NCC):
Director General– Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh
Motto– UNITY AND DISCIPLINE
312. The Keibul Lamjao National Park located on the ________ (Lake).
1) Chilika Lake
2) Loktak Lake
3) Wular Lake
4) Kolleru Lake
5) Vembanad Lake
Answer- 2) Loktak Lake
Explanation:
The Keibul Lamjao National Park located on the Loktak Lake is the last natural habitat of the
“Sangai” the dancing deer of Manipur.
• It is the world’s only floating national park. It is located in the Bishnupur district in Manipur.
The park is located in the southwestern part of the famous Loktak Lake, which is well known
for the floating biomass called phumdis.
• Sangai is a subspecies of Eld's deer endemic to Manipur. It also has immense cultural relevance
to Manipur.
• It is listed in Schedule I of the Indian WildLife (Protection) Act, 1972.
313. Name the personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) clinched her second Ladies European
Tour (LET) title of the season at the Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de Espana in Marbella, Spain.
1) Aditi Ashok
2) Diksha Dagar
3) Smriti Mehra
4) Vani Kapoor
5) Kiran Matharu
Answer- 1) Aditi Ashok
Explanation:
Indian golfer Aditi Ashok clinched her second Ladies European Tour (LET) title of the season at the
Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de Espana in Marbella, Spain.

• Aditi's impressive final round of 66, featuring a remarkable back nine of 5-under 31, secured
her victory, finishing at 17-under for the tournament. She outpaced Anne Van Dam from the
Netherlands by two shots on Sunday.
• This win marked Aditi's fifth career victory on the Ladies European Tour, capping off a
successful 2023 season. She began the year with a win in Kenya and concluded it with another
trophy in Spain.
314. What is the capital of Madagascar?

1) Antananarivo
2) Luanda
3) Phnom Penh
4) Moroni
5) Copenhagen
Answer- 1) Antananarivo
Explanation:
About Madagascar:
Capital– Antananarivo
Prime Minister– Christian Ntsay
President– Andry Rajoelina
Currency– Malagasy ariay (MGA)
315. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
of Fino Payments Bank?
1) Vijay Shekhar Sharma
2) Surinder Chawla
3) Anubrata Biswas
4) Rishi Gupta
5) Vinod Easwaran
Answer- 4) Rishi Gupta
Explanation:
About Fino Payments Bank:
Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Mr. Rishi Gupta
Incorporated on– 4th April 2017
316. Which state government has recently (in Nov ‘23) drafted a memorandum of
understanding to ensure safety of migrant workers?
1) Uttarakhand
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Himachal Pradesh
4) Jharkhand
5) West Bengal

Explanation:
The Jharkhand government has drafted a memorandum of understanding to ensure safety of
migrant workers, which it plans to sign with 10 states that host a large concentration of labourers
from Jharkhand.
• The MoU stipulates rules and regulations to be followed by states to ensure safety and
wellbeing of migrant workers from Jharkhand.
• Among the 41 rescued at Silkyara, 16 were from Jharkhand. The state has sent three officials to
the site for their safe return. Odisha is also working on the well-being and safety of five state
workers trapped in the tunnel.
• There are provisions for the safety of migrant workers under the Inter State Migrant Workmen
Act 1979. and Building and Other Construction Workers Act.
317. In which state/UT, Zojila Pass was located?

1) Uttarakhand
2) Ladakh
3) Assam
Answer- 2) Ladakh
Explanation:
The Indian Army "forged thunderstorms" at 11,500 feet near the Zojila Pass to stay battle-ready as the
harsh winter set in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
i. Zojila Pass, also known as ‘The Mountain Pass of Blizzards’, is a high mountain pass located in the
Kargil district of Ladakh. It is located on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway (NH-1) at a height of 11,650
feet.
ii. Zojila Tunnel is an under-construction tunnel situated at an altitude of 11,578 ft (around 3,500
metres) on the Srinagar-Leh Highway in Jammu and Kashmir.
iii. The tunnel would provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh on NH-1. Total
Length: 14.15 km.
• It will be India’s longest road tunnel, and Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel.
• It would be 9.5-meter wide and 7.57-meter high in the shape of a horseshoe.
318. In which state Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Kerala
2) Andhra Pradesh
3) Telangana
4) Karnataka
5) Tamil Nadu
Explanation:
Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is located in the Southern Western Ghats in the Tirunelveli
and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu.
• This reserve is a mixture of three main sanctuaries: Kalakad Sanctuary, Mundanthurai
Sanctuary, and a part of Kanyakumari Sanctuary. Nestled between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the

Agastya Malai Hill Range forms the core area of the sanctuary and is part of one of the world's
18 biodiversity hotspots.
• It is also known as the “River Sanctuary”, with as many as 14 rivers originating from this Tiger
Reserve.
319. According to the latest rankings released by World Archery in November 2023, Indian
para archer ___________ became the World No 1 in the women’s compound archery open
category.
1) Aaliya Mir
2) Priyanka Mohite
3) Naina Dhakad
4) Anita Devi
5) Sheetal Devi
Answer- 5) Sheetal Devi
Explanation:
Indian para archer Sheetal Devi became the World No 1 in the women’s compound archery open
category, according to the latest rankings released by World Archery. Rakesh Kumar, who won three
golds at the Para Asian Championship moved up two spots to secure the third position.
• The Indian is only behind Great Britain’s Nathan Macqueen and Matteo Bonacina of Italy.
• Sheetal, who topped in her category with 230 points, had jumped two places to achieve this
feat.
• She is world’s first-ever armless female archer to compete internationally and hails from
Jammu and Kashmir. Indian para archer Sarita, who returned with a bronze medal at the Asian
Para Championships was the highest gainer, moving up seven places to become world No 6.
• Sheetal also won three medals including two gold and one silver at the Asian Para
Championship.
320. In November 2023, Kambala races were held in ____________ city of Karnataka.
1) Udupi
2) Kalaburagi
3) Vijayapura
4) Bengaluru
5) Raichur
Answer- 4) Bengaluru
Explanation:
Recently, 160 pairs of buffaloes and their jockeys participated in the specially made slush tracks for
Kambala races which were held at City Palace Grounds in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• Kambala It is a folk sport practised in coastal Karnataka districts, especially in regions where
Tulu speakers form a majority. Earlier, races would be organised by various families and
groups in the slushy paddy fields, in the days after the harvest.
• It is a prestigious event for many families, especially from the Bunt community in the coastal
regions. Pairs of buffaloes are groomed by them around the year in hopes of winning a major
Kambala event or other races.

321. In which state ‘Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary ’ is located?

1) Kerala
2) Tamil Nadu
3) Karnataka
4) Odisha
5) West Bengal
Explanation:
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) recently recommended to the authorities that the
Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary abutting the Bandipur Tiger Reserve be declared as a core critical tiger
habitat.
• Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated north of Bandipur National Park in Mysore District,
Karnataka.
• It covers about 30 sq km, and the northern part of the sanctuary is occupied by the Nugu
Reservoir. It is built across the Nugu River, a tributary of the Cauvery.
• In 1974, Nugu was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary, and later, in 2003-2004, the area of Nugu
Wildlife Sanctuary was added to the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
322. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
(UNCTAD) located?
1) Paris, France
2) Rome, Italy
5) Vienna, Austria
Explanation:
About United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD):
UNCTAD is an intergovernmental organization which promotes the interests of developing countries
in world trade.
Secretary-General– Rebeca Grynspan
323. In which state Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located?

1) Odisha
2) West Bengal
3) Jharkhand
4) Madhya Pradesh
5) Maharashtra
Answer- 1) Odisha
Explanation:
About Odisha:
Chief Minister- Naveen Patnaik
Governor – Raghubar Das

Wildlife sanctuaries – Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunabeda

Wildlife Sanctuary
324. The ‘Sri Venkateswara National Park’ is located in which state?

1) Odisha
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Kerala
4) Telangana
5) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation:
About Andhra Pradesh:
Chief Minister– YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
Governor–S. Abdul Nazeer
National Park– Sri Venkateswara National Park
Wildlife Sanctuary– Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary; Krishna Wildlife sanctuary
325. In Which state Kanha Tiger Reserve is located?

1) West Bengal
2) Madhya Pradesh
3) Bihar
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Odisha
Explanation:
Kanha Tiger Reserve stretches over an area of 940 square km in the two districts - Mandla and
Balaghat - of Madhya Pradesh.
i. The present-day Kanha area was divided into two sanctuaries, Hallon and Banjar. Kanha National
Park was created in 1955 and in 1973 was made the Kanha Tiger Reserve.
326. Name the country that has recently (in Nov ‘23) qualified for the men’s T20 World Cup
2024.
1) Namibia
2) Zimbabwe
3) Kenya
4) Nigeria
5) Tanzania
Answer- 1) Namibia
Explanation:
Namibia qualified for the men’s T20 World Cup 2024, courtesy 10 points and a net run rate of
+2.643 that assured them a top-two finish on the Africa region qualifiers points table, the
International Cricket Council announced.
• The T20 World Cup will be played in the West Indies and the USA from June 4-30 next year.
• Uganda had stunned Zimbabwe by five wickets to earn two crucial points in the Qualifiers.

327. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Bharat
Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)?
1) Koppu Sadashiv Murthy
2) Arti Bhatnagar
3) Nalin Shinghal
4) Vijay Mittal
5) K Sivaprasad
Answer- 1) Koppu Sadashiv Murthy
Explanation:
About Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL):
It is a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
Chairman & Managing Director– Koppu Sadashiv Murthy
328. In which year, Tata AIG General Insurance Company was established?
1) 1995
2) 1997
3) 2001
4) 1999
5) 1990
Answer- 3) 2001
Explanation:
About Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited:
Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited is a joint venture (JV) company between Tata Sons and
American International Group (AIG).
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Neelesh Garg
329. Where is the Headquarters of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR) located?
1) Paris, France
2) Rome, Italy
5) Vienna, Austria
Explanation:
About United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR):
High Commissioner– Filippo Grandi
Formally known as the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR was established by the
United Nations General Assembly in 1950.

330. In November 2023, India along with 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS), participated in the
4th edition of the annual ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (AIGIF) held in __________
(country).
1) Vietnam
2) Malaysia
3) Thailand
4) Philippines
5) Myanmar
Answer- 2) Malaysia
Explanation:
India along with 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) were represented by 200 participants, at the 4th
edition of the annual ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (AIGIF) that was launched in
Langkawi, Malaysia on 28th November 2023.
i. The AIGIF is an annual programme focused on fostering a strengthened relationship between India
and AMS on the premise of co-operation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
• While on one side it aims to give exposure to social innovations in different countries, it also
strengthens governance in the grassroots innovation eco-system.
ii. The annual program is a collaboration between the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and
Innovation (COSTI); Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India; National
Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India and the Science and Technology Ministry of the host nation,
Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) in the year 2023.
iii. Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM) is an agency under MOSTI which is executing the AIGIF in 2023.
331. Which city has recently (in Nov ‘23) chosen to host the 2030 World Expo?
1) Vienna, Austria
2) Stockholm, Sweden
3) Paris, France
4) Montreal, Canada
5) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Answer- 5) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Explanation:
Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh was chosen to host the 2030 World Expo following its bid that focused
on shaping a prosperous and sustainable future, beating out Rome and the South Korean port city of
Busan for an event expected to draw millions of visitors.
• Members of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions chose Riyadh with a majority
of 119 out of 165 votes during a closed-door meeting in the suburb of Issy-les-Moulineaux.
Busan got 29 votes and Rome 17.
332. Name the Indian personality who has recently (in Nov ‘23) won the IBSF 6-Red Snooker
World Championship title in Doha, Qatar.
1) Anuja Thakur
2) Arantxa Sanchis
3) Vidya Pillai
4) Amee Kamani
5) Chitra Magimairaj

Answer- 3) Vidya Pillai

Explanation:
Veteran cueist Vidya Pillai clinched the IBSF 6-Red Snooker World Championship title in Doha,
Qatar, triumphing 4-1 against compatriot Anupama Ramachandran.
i. In the semifinal clash against Bai Yulu, Vidya showcased her expertise with a notable run of 33 in the
second frame and an impressive clearance of 63 in the fourth. She dominated Group ‘A’ with an
impeccable all-win record and proceeded to outplay compatriot Varshaa Sanjeev 3-0 in the pre-
quarters.
333. In November 2023, ___________ became India's first certified woman firefighter to operate a
crash fire tender.
1) Meenakshi Vijayakumar
2) Priya Ravindran
3) Harshini Kanhekar
4) Disha Naik
5) Taniya Sanyal
Answer- 4) Disha Naik
Explanation:
Goa's Disha Naik attached to Manohar International Airport (MIA) in North Goa has become India's
first certified woman firefighter to operate a crash fire tender.
i. Disha Naik, a dedicated firefighter in the Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) unit of the
airport, broke gender norms by achieving this feat.
334. In November 2023, ________ (company’s) Flight100, world first 100% Sustainable Aviation
Fuel (SAF) transatlantic flight by a commercial airline, was taken off from London Heathrow to
New York JFK.
1) Aer Lingus
2) Delta Airlines
3) Virgin Atlantic
4) jetBlue
5) Lufthansa
Answer- 3) Virgin Atlantic
Explanation:
Flight100, Virgin Atlantic’s world first 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) transatlantic flight by a
commercial airline is fuelled ahead of its take off from London Heathrow to New York JFK on 28
November 2023.
Note- Shai Weiss is present Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Virgin Atlantic.
335. Name the telescope of ISRO that has recently (in Nov ‘23) detected more than 600 Gamma-
Ray Burst (GRB), each marking the death of a massive star or merging of neutron stars.
1) Hubble Space Telescope
2) Hale Telescope
3) AstroSat space Telescope
4) Spitzer Space Telescope
5) Herschel Telescope

Answer- 3) AstroSat space Telescope

Explanation:
India's AstroSat space telescope has achieved a significant milestone by detecting more than 600
Gamma-Ray Burst (GRB), each marking the death of a massive star or merging of neutron stars.
i. The detection of the 600th GRB is a great demonstration of the continued undiminished
performance of Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI) eight years after launch, and well after its
design lifetime.
ii. Launched in 2015 by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), AstroSat had a design life of
five years, but continues to be in good health, making observations for astronomers.
iii. The satellite is India's first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory, equipped with a suite of
payloads for simultaneously observing celestial objects across different wavelengths, from ultraviolet
to X-rays.
336. In November 2023, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the crest of Yard 12706
(Imphal), the third amongst the four Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyers.
Which company has built the Yard 12706 (Imphal)?
1) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
2) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
3) Hindustan Shipyard Limited
4) Goa Shipyard Limited
5) Cochin Shipyard Limited
Answer- 2) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
Explanation:
• The crest of Yard 12706 (Imphal), the third amongst the four Project 15B stealth guided
missile destroyers, was unveiled by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The unveiling of Imphal’s crest, adorned with the Kangla Palace and ‘Kangla-Sa’ is a befitting
tribute to the sacrifice made by the people of Manipur towards India’s independence,
sovereignty and security.
• Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, this ship is a hallmark of indigenous shipbuilding and
is amongst the most technologically advanced warships in the world. The ship was delivered
by the MDL to the Indian Navy on October 20, 2023.
337. What is the capital of Moldova?

1) Vilnius
2) Chisinau
3) Pristina
4) Valletta
5) Tbilisi
Answer- 2) Chisinau
Explanation:
About Moldova:
Prime Minister(PM)- Dorin Recean
President- Maia Sandu

Currency- Moldovan Leu (MDL)

Capital- Chisinau
338. In which state, the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is located?

1) Sikkim
2) Uttarakhand
3) Himachal Pradesh
4) Uttar Pradesh
5) Bihar
Explanation:
The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, also known as the Nanda Devi National Park, is a spectacular
expanse of wilderness in the upper reaches of the Himalayas.
i. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and the Valley of Flowers, both a part of the prestigious United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List, encompass a
unique transition zone between the Zanskar mountain range and the Great Himalaya.
ii. Located under the guard of the Nanda Devi peak, the rugged and dramatic reserve is spread across
three districts of Uttarakhand, i.e. Chamoli, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar.
339. Who is the current (as of Nov ‘23) Managing Director (MD) & Group Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of Gujarat International Finance Tec-city (GIFT-City)?
1) Sanjeev Kumar
2) Tapan Ray
3) Hasmukh Adhia
4) Rajkumar Beniwal
5) Anjali Bansal
Answer- 2) Tapan Ray
Explanation:
About Gujarat International Finance Tec-city co. ltd. (GIFT-City):
Managing Director & Group Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Tapan Ray
Headquarters – Gandhinagar, Gujarat
340. In which state Ramgarh Visdhari Tiger Reserve is located?

1) Madhya Pradesh
2) Uttar Pradesh
3) Rajasthan
4) Bihar
5) Karnataka
Explanation:
Ramgarh Visdhari Tiger Reserve lies in the southeastern part of Rajasthan in Bindi district with
representation of both Vindhyan and Aaravalli elements.
i. It is in continuation with the buffer area of Ranthambore tiger reserve in the North-eastern side and
Mukundara Hills tiger reserve in the southern side. Mez, a tributary of Chambal river , passes through
the tiger reserve.

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39. In November 2023, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD),

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• The target for ESY 2023–24 (November 2023–October 2024) is 15%.

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4) United Nations Environment Programme

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i. IAEA Data Platform organizes data into three main topics:

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BANKING AND FINANCE

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Answer- 4) IndiaFirst Life Insurance

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Current Affairs Q&A PDF - November 2023 by AffairsCloud New 1

Current Affairs Q&A PDF - November 2023 by AffairsCloud New 1