January 2024 Spotlight Lyst8332-1

SPOTLIGHT
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January 2024
National News
1. Finance Ministry has imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of 'Wheel
Loaders' from China.
e Key points-
e This anti-dumping duty will remain valid for a period of five years, unless it is revoked
earlier.
o The duty ranges from 18.84% to 82.71% of the CIF value in US dollars, depending on
the producer.
o Whatis Wheel Loader?
o Itis a piece of heavy machinery used to load and carry materials across a job site.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
What is anti-dumping duty?
e Itis ameasure to rectify the situation arising out of the dumping of goods and
its trade distortive effect.
e Dumping is said to occur when the goods are exported by a country to another
country at a price lower than the price it normally charges in its own home
market.
e This is an unfair trade practice which can have a distortive effect on international
trade.
Source: Hindu Businessline
2. Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has visited Russia from 25-29 December as a
part of high-level exchange between India and Russia.
e Key highlights of the visit-
o Three agreements were signed, covering the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant,
pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and Foreign Office Consultations.
e About Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant-
o Itis the biggest powerplant in India, located 650km south of Chennai, in the Tirunelveli
district of Tamil Nadu, India.
Source: mea
3. Pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) has signed a tripartite
Memorandum of Settlement (peace pact) with the Central Government and the Assam
government.
e Key points-
o ULFA was formed in 1979 and it is the oldest insurgent group in Assam.
o It was labelled a terrorist organisation and banned in India since 1990.
o Faction has demanded constitutional and political reforms for the protection of identity
and resources for indigenous people of Assam.
Source: India Today
January 2024
4. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has launched National Single
Window System (NSWS) to streamline the import, clinical investigations, and testing of
medical devices.
e More about National Single Window System (NSWS)-

© Developed by- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
o It acts as a one-stop shop for all the approvals required by the investor and facilitates
ease of doing business.
o It facilitates applications for the certificate of registration and licences to manufacture

or import medical devices for various purposes, including clinical investigations, etc.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CDSCO-
e Itis the national regulatory body for Indian pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
e The CDSCO is responsible for ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of drugs,
cosmetics, and medical devices, and it regulates their import, manufacture, and
distribution in India.
e It works under Directorate General of Health Services,Ministry of Health & Family

Welfare,Government of India
e Headquarters- New Delhi
e Drug Controller General of India- Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi
Source: Business Standard, CDSCO
5. Central government has amended Central Civil Services (CCS) (pension) rules, 2021, to
allow female government servants and pensioners to nominate her child/children for
family pension in precedence to her husband.
e Key points of amendments-
o A female government servant or pensioner facing marital discord or legal cases can
request that family pension be granted to her eligible child in precedence to her spouse
in the event of her death.
o Disbursement after Death:
« In case of the female government servant's or pensioner's death during the

mentioned legal proceedings:
January 2024
(a) If the widower has no eligible children, family pension goes to the widower.
(b) If the widower has minor children or children with a disorder or disability of
mind:
e family pension is payable to the widower (acting as a guardian).
e If the widower ceases to be the guardian, the pension is redirected to the child
through the actual guardian.
e Upon attaining majority, the child receives the pension until they are ineligible.
(c) If the widower has children who have attained majority but are still eligible for
family pension, the pension is payable to the child/children.
« If achild or children cease to be eligible under Rule 50 of the CCS (Pension) Rules,
2021, family pension passes to other eligible child/children.
After all children become ineligible under Rule 50, the widower receives family
pension until death or remarriage, whichever comes first.
Source: PIB
6. President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to two bills.

¢ Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment,
Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023:
© It has replaced the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election

Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991.
o It specifies the process for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and
other Election Commissioners.
© It defines the conditions of service and tenure for the Chief Election Commissioner and
other Election Commissioners.
¢ Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill, 2023:

© It has replaced the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867.
© Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is the concerned ministry overseeing the

implementation of the bill.
o It intends to ease procedures for publishers, reducing the number of declarations and
filings required.
o It focuses on bringing the registration and declaration process in line with

contemporary needs and technological advancements.
Source: The Hindu
January 2024
7. Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has extended deadline for Employers to
upload wage details for Pension on Higher Wages.
e Key points-
o New deadline- May 31, 2024
o Old deadline- December 31, 2023
o Employers have been given 5 months for uploading wage details of higher pension
options online.
Knowledge Nuggets
About EPFO-
e Employees Provident Fund Organization is one of the World's largest Social

Security Organisations in terms of clientele and the volume of financial
transactions undertaken.
e It was established by the Employees’ Provident Funds Act, 1952.
e Ministry- Ministry of Labour and Employment
e Central Provident Fund Commissioner- Neelam Shami Rao
Source: PIB
8. Union Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah has launched ‘e-samridhi portal’ for
procurement and payment of tur dal in New Delhi.
e« About e-samridhi portal-
o Developed by- National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd.

(NAFED)and National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Limited (NCCF).
© Portal is launched during national symposium organized on ‘Self-reliance in Pulses’.
© Through the portal, farmers will be able to sell tur dal to NAFED or NCCF at the
minimum support price (MSP) or market price, whichever is higher.
o NAFED and NCCF will undertake procurement of pulses on behalf of the government to
maintain a buffer stock.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About NAFED-
e Itis an organisation of marketing cooperatives for agricultural produce, set up

under the Multi State Cooperative Societies Act.
e Objective- To promote co-operative marketing of agricultural produce that would

benefit farmers.
e Established- 1958
e Chairman- Dr. Bijender Singh
Source: livemint
9. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary S Krishnan has

launched ‘'ERNET', newly developed integrated web portal of India for educational
institutes in the country.
e Key points-
o Portal will offer domain registration, DNS and value-added services namely Website as
a Service (WaaS) and Learning Management as a Service (LMaaS).
eo Users can select from the variety of available templates for schools, colleges,
universities as per their requirement and create their own website and Learning
Management System.
o Web portal has been developed by utilizing open-source software and emerging
technologies such as Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.
e About ERNET India-
eo ERNET India is a not-for-profit scientific society under MeitY.
o Itis the exclusive domain registrar for all the education & research institutes having
‘ac.in’, ‘edu.in’ & ‘res.in’ as domain name.
o It provides web accessibility service, campus Wi-Fi services, smart classrooms and
connectivity through Terrestrial and Satellite based systems to the educational &
research institutes in the country.
Source: PIB
January 2024
10. Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched refreshed
PAiSA Portal and PM SVANidhi Portal at a seminar on 'Grievance Redressal Committee
(GRC) for Street Vendors’.
e Objectives of seminar-
eo To sensitize all States and Union Territories on the importance of robust Grievance
Redressal Committees.
© To bring together key stakeholders to enhance their understanding of the legal

provisions within the Street Vendors Act 2014.
e These portals will provide real-time progress updates on the mission and scheme, and
improve transparency and accountability.
Knowledge Nuggets
¢ About PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi)-
o Itis a Central Sector Scheme i.e., fully funded by Ministry of Housing and
Urban Affairs, Government of India.
o Its objective includes providing working capital loan, incentivize regular

repayment, and reward digital transactions.
o In addition to the existing 1st and 2nd term loans of %10,000 and €20,000
respectively, a new 3rd term loan of up to $50,000 has been introduced.
o Interest subsidy- On timely/early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy

of 7% per annum will be credited to the bank accounts on a six monthly basis.
o Launch date- March 24, 2020
e About PAiSA Portal-
o Itis an acronym for Portal for Affordable Credit and Interest Subvention
Access (PAiSA).
o It is a centralised portal for the processing of interest subvention on bank

loans to beneficiaries under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana — National Urban
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM).
Source: Pl
11. Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated the
1st Healthy & Hygienic Food Street of country, 'PRASADAM,' at Neelkanth Van, Mahakal
Lok, in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
January 2024
e Key points-
o PRASADAM will connect common citizens in every corner of the country with pure and
safe local and traditional food.
o Other initiatives launched-
» Union Health Minister and the Chief Minister also jointly launched the ‘Mannhit app’
which is an initiative facilitating screening for mental health.
» He has also launched 30 bedded additional wards under the Emergency Covid
Response Package, 3 Community Health Centers and 8 primary health centers
under PM-ABHIIM.
« Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has released “The DART
Book” to check common food adulterations at home with simple tests.
Source: PIB
12. Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made mandatory machine-to-machine

(M2M) and Wireless Personal Area Network/ Wireless Local Area Network
(WPLAN/WLAN) registration to all entities.
e Key points-
o Entities can register with DoT through a simple and transparent online process via
SalarSanchar portal.
o Non-compliance may lead to withdrawal or disconnection of telecom resources.
ec Decision has been taken to extend the scope of registration in order to generate
standard based and secure M2M/loT ecosystem.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SaralSanchar Portal-
e ‘SARAL SANCHAR' ( Simplified Application For Registration and Licenses) is a

Web based Portal, for Issuing of various types of Licenses and Registration
certificates.
Source: dot.gov.in
13. Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has approved the
comprehensive scheme “PRITHvi Vigyan (PRITHVI)” of Ministry of Earth Sciences.
January 2024
¢ More about PRITHvi Vigyan (PRITHVI)-
o Duration- From 2021-2026
o Cost of scheme- Rs. 4,797 crore.
o Scheme comprises 5 ongoing sub-schemes-
» Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services

(ACROSS)
« Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)
« Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)

» Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE)
« Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT)
e Objectives of the Prithvi Scheme are:
°o To strengthen and maintain continuous observations of the atmosphere, ocean,

geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth to monitor vital Earth System indicators and
changes.
o To explore polar and high seas regions of the Earth to discover new phenomena and
resources.
o To develop technology for exploring and sustainably harnessing oceanic resources for
societal applications.
© To translate knowledge and insights from Earth systems science into services for
societal, environmental, and economic benefits.
Source: PIB
14. Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to declare Ayodhya Airport in Uttar Pradesh as
an International Airport and naming it as "Maharishi Valmiki International Airport,
Ayodhyadham.
e key point-
o Airport is named "Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham," in honor of

Maharishi Valmiki, the sage known for writing the Ramayana, adding a cultural touch to
its identity.
Source: PIB
15. 1st Inland Waterways Development Council (IDWC) chaired by the Union Minister of
India, Sarbananda Sonowal has committed Rs 45,000 crore for development of River
January 2024
Cruise Tourism.
e Objective-
o To boost the economy and trade, make rivers and other inland water routes usable as
channels.
e Key points-
o Of this $45,000 crore, an estimated ¥35,000 crore has been earmarked for cruise
vessels and another 10,000 crore for development of cruise terminal infrastructure.
o Union Minister has also launched ‘Harit Nauka’ guidelines for Green Transition of Inland
Vessels and ‘River Cruise Tourism Roadmap, 2047’ at the inaugural session of IWDC.
Source: PIB
16. India is set to chair and host 46th session of UNESCO's World Heritage Committee in
New Delhi from 21st to 31st July 2024.
e Key point-
© The decision is taken at 19th extraordinary session (UNESCO, 2023) of the World
Heritage Committee.
Knowledge Nuggets
About UNESCO-
e United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a

specialized agency of the United Nations.
e QObjective- Promoting world peace and security through international cooperation

in education, arts, sciences and culture.
e Headquarters- Paris, France
e Established- 1945
e Director General- Audrey Azoulay
Source: livemint
17. Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest &
Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has launched the 5th training program under the Amrit
January 2024
Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme in Chilika Lake, Odisha.
e Key points-
° Two training programmes of 15 days each namely the Alternative Livelihood program
(ALP), and the Paryatan Navik Certificate (PNC) will be conducted.
© A total of 60 participants (30 for each course) were identified from the local
communities in and around Chilika Lake to impart trainings and subsequently certifying
them as nature-guides.
o Itis part of the ongoing effort of enhancing livelihood opportunities for local
communities through harnessing the nature-tourism potential of the Ramsar Sites
across the country under the Amrit Dharohar Initiative of the MoEF&CC.
INDIA
ae
wenee
ODISHA
e
, Chilika Lake
Bay of Bengal
Knowledge Nuggets
About Amrit Dharohar Scheme-
e It was launched to highlight the importance of local communities in conserving

the wetland ecosystem and to promote their unique conservation values.
e Its objective is to encourage optimal use of wetlands, and enhance bio-diversity,

carbon stock, eco-tourism opportunities and income generation for local
communities.
e Launched in- June 2023 (Announced in Union Budget 2023-24)
e Nodal Ministry- Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC)
Source: PIB
January 2024
18. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has notified the revised rules under
Schedule M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.
Objective-
© To bring better compliance with quality standards.
What is Schedule M?
o Schedule M prescribes the good manufacturing practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical

products.
Major changes introduced in the revised Schedule M include-
o Introduction of a pharmaceutical quality system (PQS),
© Quality risk management (QRM), product quality review (PQR),

© Qualification and validation of equipment, and
oc Computerised storage system for all drug products
How revised regulations of Schedule M will help ?
© It will enhance adherence to global quality standards, ensuring the production of safe
and effective drugs for the benefit of patients and the industry.
How new rules will be implemented?
© Revised rules will be implemented on the basis of company turnovers.
o Medium and small manufacturers with an annual turnover of less than Rs 250 crore will
have to implement the revised rules within 12 months from its date of publication.
eo Large manufacturers with an annual turnover of over Rs 250 crore will be given 6
months to do so.
Source: Business Standard
19. Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has submitted proposals for
Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands for cities of
Indore, Bhopal and Udaipur.
Key points-
° These are the first 3 Indian cities for which nominations have been submitted for WCA.
o Nominations are based on the proposals received from respective State Wetlands
Authorities in collaboration with the Municipal Corporations.
What is Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)?
January 2024
It is a voluntary accreditation system established by the Ramsar Convention during the
Conference of Parties (COP) 12, 2015.
Objective-
» To promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands and
recognize cities which have taken exceptional steps to safeguard their urban
wetlands.
For the Wetland City Accreditation, city should satisfy the standards used to implement
each of the 6 international criteria mentioned Operational Guidance for WCA of the
Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
e Wetlands which are situated in and around the nominated Indian cities are-
3 Indore (Madhya Pradesh) - Sirpur Wetland (Ramsar site) and Yashwant Sagar
(Ramsar site)
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)- Bhoj Wetland (Ramsar site)

Udaipur (Rajasthan)- City is surrounded by 5 major wetlands, namely, Pichola, Fateh
Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai
January 2024
Ramsar Sites of India
Wular Lake Hokera Wetland ;—— Renuka Wetland
Jammu & Kashmir Jammu & Kashmir Himachal Pradesh
Marcn 23, 1990 November 3, 2005 November 8, 2005
Chandertal Wetland
Himachai Pradesh
Surinsar-Mansar Lake: November 8, 2005
Jammu & Kashmir
7— Asan Conservation Reserve
November 8, 2005 -Tso Kar Wetland Complex
Lada: Catena
duly 21, 2020
November 17,2020 — Upper Ganga River
Keshopur-Miani Community Reserv: Tsomoriri Uttar Pradesh, November 8, 2005
Punjab Ladakh ;———Saman Bird Sanctuary
September 26, 2019 Fe Seis Utar Pradesh
December 2, 2019
Beas Conservation Reserve— es — = 2 - Cee
Punjab po
September 2, 2019°/) August 19. 2002 September 26, 2019
= > Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
2 Uttar Pradesh
Kanjl Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary September 19, 2019
Punjab Punjab :
January 22, 2002 September 26,2019 Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary
Uttar Pradesh
Harike Lake December 2, 2019
Punjab
RON SS TRO khira Wildlife Sanctuary
Haiderpur Wetland |< ; * Uttar Pradesh, June 29, 2021
Uttar Pradesh, April 13, 2021 —h
Sultanpur National Park— eas ae
Hariyana, May 25, 2021 Pris Despor Beel
Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary___f Assam
Hariyana, May 25,2021 R { August 19,2002
Sambhar Lako——____-»
Rajasthan, March 23, 1999
Saat ot
Nati 1 Park:
Rajasthan
October 1.1981 #9 Loktak Lake
Tho! Lake Wildjife Sanctuary—, jf Manipur
Gujarat; Apri 5, 2024 March 23, 1990
q tNY Rudrasagar Lake

Tripura
Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary ; — | November 8, 2605
Gujarat, April 13, 2021
S poeta SY Sundarban Wetland
West Bengal
Nalsarova: January 30, 2019
Gujarat, September 24, 2012
Wadhvana Wetia
Gujarat, Apri 5, 2021 East Kolkata Wetlands
West
Bhoj Wotland so August 19, 2002
7
Madhya Pradesh
August 19, 2002 \
Nandur Madhameshwar w7 —————— Bhitarkanika Mangroves
, Odisha 0
Maharashtra t
June 21, 2019 Lonar Lake ) August 19, 20024
Maharashtra y 4
July eect
Vembanad-Kol Wetlan ¥ Chilika Lake 9
Kerala W i Odisha
August 19, 2002 October
1, 1984
Sasthamkotta Lake———@_4
Kerala Xt Kolleru Lake a
August 19, 2002
Andhra Pradesh “
August 19, 2002 ,
Ashtamudi Wetland Point Calimere Wildlife Bird Sanctuary

Kerala Tamil Nadu
August 19, 2002 August 19, 2002
5) Wetlands
(INTERNATIONAL
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Ramsar Site-
e« A Ramsar site refers to a wetland of international significance designated under

the Ramsar Convention, also recognized as the 'Convention on Wetlands:.'
e This environmental treaty was established by UNESCO in 1971 and takes its name
from Ramsar, lran, where the convention was initially signed.
e Ramsar recognition involves identifying globally significant wetlands, particularly

those serving as habitats for waterfowl, encompassing approximately 180 bird
species.
e India currently has 75 sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance

(Ramsar Sites).
e« Sundarbans in West Bengal is the largest Ramsar site in India.
Source: Pl
20. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made significant changes in the
regulations related to Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) for flight crew to address fatigue
among pilots and crew and enhance overall flight safety.
e Key Highlights of the revised FDTL Regulations:
o Revised FDTL regulations are effective forthwith and the airline operators are required
to comply with the revised regulations latest by 1st June, 2024.
o The changes have been done in following-
» Extended Weekly Rest Periods for flight crew
» Night Duty
» Maximum Flight Time, Maximum Flight Duty Periods and Number of Landings
during night
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About DGCA-
e Itis the regulatory body in the field of Civil Aviation primarily dealing with safety
issues.
e Headquarter- New Delhi
e¢ Director General- Vikram Dev Dutt
Source: PIB
21. National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) project has
introduced a mobile app ‘Report Fish Disease’ to track and monitor fish diseases across
the country.
e Key points-
oe Developed by- ICAR(Indian Council of Agricultural Research)-NBFGR(National

Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources) in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh).
© App will support aquaculture farmers by offering a complete solution for diagnosing,
preventing, controlling, and treating aquatic animal diseases.
°o App uses technology to revolutionize disease management in aquaculture.
o It enhances sustainability and productivity through early disease detection, data-driven

decision-making, capacity building, and efficient resource allocation.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NSPAAD-
e It was launched for early detection of diseases
e Launched in- 2013
Source: Hindu BusinessLine
22. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras to open new campus at Kandy in Sri Lanka in
2024.
January 2024
Source: Al
23. Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra has become 1st Dark Sky Park of India and the 5th
in Asia, protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution.
What is a Dark Sky Park?
ce A dark-sky preserve is an area, usually surrounding a park or observatory, that restricts

artificial light pollution.
o Purpose of the dark-sky movement is generally to promote astronomy.
Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), a high-altitude astronomy station located in

Hanle, Ladakh and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, is 1st dark-sky
preserve of India.
Situated in the Western Himalayas at an elevation of 4,500 meters (14,764 ft), the IAO is
one of the world's highest located sites for optical, infrared and gamma-ray telescopes.
Source: livemint
. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the 'New Solar Power
Scheme’ with an outlay of Rs 515 crore for electrification in habitations and villages of
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG).
Objective-
© To provide solar power in 1 lakh un-electrified households identified by the Ministry of

Tribal Affairs (MoTA) in 18 states across India and the Union Territories (UT) of
Andaman & Nicobar.
Key points-
o Scheme was launched under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Abhiyan (PM-
JANMAN) programme.
o Tenure- From Financial Year 2023-24 (FY24) to Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26).
o Scheme has made provisions for 0.3 kiloWatt (kW) off-grid solar systems in places
where power supply is not techno-economically feasible through the grid.
o It also provides solar lighting in 1,500 Multi-Purpose Centres (MPCs) in PVTG areas
where electricity through the grid is not possible.
o Funding-
» Out of the allocated fund, 20 crore will be allocated in FY24, Rs.255 crore in FY25,
and Rs 240 crore in FY26.
January 2024
» Out of Rs 515 crore, Rs 500 crore will be used for electrification of houses in tribal
areas, which includes setting up of 0.3 kW solar off-grid system for one lakh PVTG
houses.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PM JANMAN-
e Itis a government scheme that aims to bring tribal communities into the
mainstream.
e It has been implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in collaboration with
the State governments and the PVTG communities.
e Launched- November 15, 2023
Who are PVTGs?
e PVTG is a sub-classification of Scheduled Tribe or section of a Scheduled Tribe,

that is considered more vulnerable than a regular Scheduled Tribe.
e Criteria for identifying Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups are:
Pre-agricultural level of technology

°
Low level of literacy

9°
Economic backwardness
°
A declining or stagnant population

°
Source: EW, Pl
25. World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the International Classification of
Diseases (ICD-11), Traditional Medicine (TM) Chapter Module 2 at the event held in India
Habitat Centre in New Delhi.
e Key points-
e ICD 11TM module 2 includes data and terminology related to diseases based on
Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani(ASU) Systems.
o Terms defining diseases in these traditional systems are indexed as morbidity codes
and included in the WHO Disease Classification Series ICD-11.
e What is International Classification of Diseases ?
January 2024
° ICD-11, or the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases, is a global
standard for recording health information and causes of death.
eo ICD-11 undergoes annual updates by the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure its
relevance and accuracy in reflecting the current understanding of diseases and health
conditions.
© It was officially adopted by the 72nd World Health Assembly in 2019.
o It came into effect on January 1, 2022, marking the transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 for
health information recording.
WHO Collaboration Centre:
© The Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI), under the Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare (MoHFW), serves as the WHO Collaboration Centre for ICD-related
activities.
Source: PIB
26. Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri Nhava
Sheva Atal Setu has been inaugurated.
e More about MTHL-
© Itis longest sea bridge covering 21.8 km out of which 16.5 km is over the sea link.
© It connects Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Raigad district in Navi Mumbai.
A connection, 60 years in the making

The idea for a bridge to connect Mumbai and New Mumbai was first floated more than 60 years ago, and
the project will finally be inaugurated today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A look at its key features.
21.8km
_Totallength
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of itis over
the sea
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January 2024 19
Source: HT
27. National Institution for Transforming India (NIT|) Aayog and World Food Programme
(WFP) have launched a compendium in New Delhi featuring the field stories showcasing
the use of millets in Asian and African countries.
e More about Compendium-
o Compendium will help in capacity building and scaling up the best practices in the
adoption of millets across the world.
o It includes inspiring case stories to help countries learn and invest in traditional climate
resilient crops such as millet.”
© Itis expected to act as a reference for integrating millets into mainstream food systems,
offering insights for making informed decisions and exchange through South-South
Cooperation and policy dialogues.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NITI Aayog-
¢ Established- 2015
e Chairman- Prime Minister of India (Current PM- Narendra Modi)
e CEO- B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
About World Food Programme-
e World Food Programme (WFP) is the leading humanitarian organization saving

lives and changing lives, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working
with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience.
e It was founded in 1961 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA) with its headquarters in Rome, Italy.
Source: PIB
28. Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation (MoSPI), Rao Inderjit Singh has launched the ‘MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile
Application’ in New Delhi.
e Objective-
eo To enable the Members of Parliament (MPs) to recommend works of developmental

nature with emphasis on the creation of durable community assets based on the locally
felt needs.
e Key points-
° Mobile app would offer convenience and accessibility, allowing MPs to propose, track,
and oversee the projects at their fingertips.
o Real-time access is expected to improve decision-making processes, and enable swift

responses to emerging needs or issues.
© It will promote transparency by providing MPs with instant updates on the status and
progress of their proposed projects.
o Mobile application has the features for budget management, ensuring MPs can monitor
expenditures.
Knowledge Nuggets
About MPLADS Scheme-
e Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) is a Central

Sector Scheme which was announced in December 1993.
e Under the scheme MPs can suggest projects that focus on building lasting
community resources like clean water, basic education, public health, sanitation,
and roads in their constituencies.
e MPs receive Rs. 5 crore annually, distributed in two installments of Rs. 2.5 crore
each. The funds allocated under MPLADS do not expire and can be carried
forward.
Source: PIB
29. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the 'One Vehicle, One FASTag'
initiative.
e Objectives-
January 2024
© To enhance efficiency of the Electronic Toll Collection system and provide seamless
movement at the Toll Plazas.
© To discourage user behavior of using single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking
multiple FASTags to a particular vehicle.
e Key points-
o NHAI is also encouraging FASTag users to complete ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC)
process of their latest FASTag by updating KYC as per RBI guidelines.
o FASTags with valid balance but with incomplete KYC will get deactivated/blacklisted
by banks post 31st January 2024.
Source: PIB
30. Ist National Highway Steel Slag Road of India section on NH- 66 Mumbai-Goa
National Highway has been inaugurated.
e Key points-
° Steel Slag Road Technology developed by- CSIR-Central Road Research Institute
(CSIR-CRRI)
o Under the guidance of CSIR-CRRI technological, JSW Steel has constructed the 1
km long four lane steel slag road section on Indapur-Panvel Section of NH-66
Mumbai-Goa.
Knowledge Nuggets
e Central Road Research Institute established in 1952
Source: PIB
31. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released commemorative postage stamps on the
Ram temple in Ayodhya and a book of stamps issued on Lord Ram around the world.
e Key points-
o The six stamps are on the Ram temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu,
Kevatraj and Ma Shabri.
January 2024
o Stamp book is an attempt to showcase the international appeal of Lord Ram and the
48-page book covers stamps issued by more than of 20 countries, including the
US, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, Cambodia, and organisations like the UN.
Source: Indian Express
32. Central government has set up a high-level committee to examine the administrative
steps that can be taken to safeguard the interests of Scheduled Caste (SC)
communities like the Madigas and their sub-categorisation in the SC reservation.
e Committee will be headed by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba.
Source: asianage
33. Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has
inaugurated two significant initiatives in Kerala.
¢ Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent Internet of Things (IloT) Sensors-

o Itis a unique facility established at Makers Village Kochi by MeitY, Gol and Govt. of
Kerala.
o Its main purpose is to facilitate the growth of smart loT systems by advancing
diverse applications of intelligent sensors across networks, devices, and sensor
systems.
e Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG)-
© Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the first
Graphene Centre, IICG, at Makers Village in Kochi.
© Its main purpose is to encourage research and development, promoting product

innovation, and enhance expertise in the field of Graphene and 2D material
systems.
Source: PIB
34. India has been elected as the First Vice Chair of the Food and Agriculture
Organization FAO COFI Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management.
e Key points-
o India will serve as member of a FAO Fisheries Bureau on 'Capture Fisheries' for
the first time in 57 years.
© India is one of the top fishing nations with over 28 million inland and marine fishers.
January 2024
e What is Capture fisheries?
oO It is the practice of the removal of aquatic organisms from natural or enhanced

inland waters.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Food and Agriculture Organisation-

e Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is a specialized
agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger
and improve nutrition and food security.
e Headquarters- Rome, Italy
e Established- 1945
e Director General- Qu Dongyu
¢ Motto- fiat panis in Latin (Let there be bread)
Source: AIR
35. Central government has directed schools and higher education institutions to provide
study material for all courses in Indian languages digitally within the next 3 years.
e Objective-
oO To provide students the opportunity to study in their own language.
e Key points-
° These directions are in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) for
promoting multilingualism in education at every level.
It provides students with the chance to learn in a natural environment, providing

innovative thinking without language barriers.
Content creation in local languages will boost this multilingual asset and pave way
for its better contribution to 'Viksit Bharat' to make our country as developed nation
by 2047.
Translation of Engineering, Medical, Law, UG, PG and Skill books being done
through the ‘Anuvadini Al’ based App.
These books are available on the e-KUMBH portal.
January 2024 24
Knowledge Nuggets
About Anuvadini Al-
e Itis an Al-powered translation tool specifically for Indian languages, which

higher education institutions can use for translation.
¢ Developed by- All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
About e-KUMBH portal-
e Itis a portal to provide free, open access to high-quality technical textbooks

in English and 12 Indian languages.
¢ Launched by- All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
36. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched first pilot project to make jet fuel
from alcohol in Pune.
e Key points-
o This project will produce sustainable biological aviation fuel or SAF.
o This pilot project has been set up in the research and development department of
Praj Udyog Group in Pirangut Industrial Estate near Pune.
Source: AIR
37. Ram Temple has been inaugurated in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh on 22nd January, 2024.
¢ Key points-
o Temple has been built in Indian Nagara Style.
o Chief Architect- Chandrakant Sompura
o Construction company- Larsen and Toubro (L&T)
© Sculptor- Arun Yogiraaj
e Major construction materials used in the construction of Ram Mandir are-
January 2024 25
o Bansi Paharpur Pink Sandstone from Bharatpur district of Rajasthan have been
used in the main temple structure.
© Granite Stones have been used in the plinths
o White Makrana and Colored Marbles have been used for the inlay work.
o Teakwood has been used for the construction of the doors of the temple.
o Other Materials Used: Shaligram Rock, Copper Plates, Gold, and Ashtdhatu
se Ex
Completion time
3T0 3.5 YEARS
be
> 3-storey Ram temple Prabhakarji Sompura had

will have 5 dome-shaped designed the Somnath temple
mandaps and L‘shikhar’ > Nagar style Ram temple has
P Original design had 2 been designed keeping in mind
storeys, 3 mandaps and Shilpa Shastra specifications
1shikhar. Sanctum Stones from Banshi
sanctorum will be BCulelts
mountains in Rajasthan
octagonal tas
em ie)
will be used
> Number of 141 feet to > 4 more temples,
pillars increased 161 feet smaller in size, will
from 212 to 360 surround the main
P Temple design based structure
keeping in consideration P Over 2 lakh bricks with ‘Sri
Vastu Shastra, says chief Ram’ inscribed on them in
architect Chandrakantbhai various languages, collected
Sompura who also designed over 30 years ago fram across
the Akshardham temple of the country, will form the
Gujarat. His grandfather foundation of the temple
Total columns | 360

Total floors| 3
Total mandaps | 5 (kudu, rang,
nritya, Kirtan and prarthana)
Width of stairs
Source: TOI
38. Union Minister Parshottam Rupala, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and
Dairying (MoFAHD) has virtually launched the project of depositing artificial reefs in
January 2024 26
the seabed in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
e Objective-
© To increase the income of fishermen by enhancing the fish population in Kerala.
e More about project-
© Itis a joint initiative of the Government of India (Gol) and the Government of
Kerala.
o Project is implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

(PMMSY).
o Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation (KSCADC) will implement the
project with technical assistance from the Central Marine Fisheries Research
Institute.
© Total budget for project is Rs 13.02 crore: 60% (Rs 7.812 crore) by Central
Government and 40% (Rs 5.208 crore) by the Government of Kerala.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana-
e Itis a flagship scheme for focused and sustainable development of the

fisheries sector in the country with an estimated investment of 20,050 crore.
e It is implemented as part of Aatmanirbhar Bharat package during 2020-21 to

2024-25.
e Objective-
© To improve fish production by an additional 70 lakh tonne by 2024-25.
e Launched- September 2020
Source: AIR, Pl
39. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched "Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana" to
provide Rooftop Solar (RTS) power systems to 1 crore households.
e Objective-
© To provide electricity through solar rooftop installations, along with offering

additional income for surplus electricity generation.
e More about scheme-
January 2024 27
© Scheme will support India to achieve the target of 40 Gigawatt (GW) rooftop solar
capacity.
© It will help poor and middle-income households to lower their electricity bills.
o Interested beneficiary may install the solar rooftop systems through project
developers after taking approval from respective DISCOMS within the capacity limit.
Source: ET
AO. 9th edition of the India International Science Festival (lISF) 2023 has been held in
Faridabad, Haryana from January 17th-20th, 2024.
e Key points-
o Theme- Science and Technology Public Outreach in Amrit Kaal
© Objective-
= To provide a platform for inspiring public at large and individuals with diverse
levels of interests.
o More about IISF-
» IISF 2023 will have a total of 17 themes to showcase scientific achievements

offering diverse benefits to participants and the general public.
» Organised by- Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Earth
Sciences in association with Vijnana Bharati.
Source: PIB
41. 5th International and 44th All India Criminology Conference has been held at
National Forensic Science University (NFSU) at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
e Key points-
e Organised by- National Forensic Science University (NFSU) and Indian Society of
Criminology (ISC)
© Topic- "Behavioral Forensics: Exploring the Evolving Boundaries of Criminology

and Criminalistics.”
o Centre of Excellence in Digital Forensics at NFSU to support capacity building and

investigation has been inaugurated.
o Themes of the conference-
» Criminology and Behavioural forensics: Transdisciplinary Foundations
January 2024
co
nN
= Contours of Victim Support, Justice and Challenges
=» Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice System
» Forensic Algorithms in Justice Delivery System
Source: PIB, nfsu
42. NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) and Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) have jointly launched the ‘Investment Forum for
Advancing Climate Resilient Agrifood Systems in India’ in New Delhi.
e Objective-
ce To create a plan to strengthen climate-resilient agrifood systems in India through

collaboration between the government, private sector, farmers’ organizations, and
financial institutions.
e Key point-
o Forum will facilitate the identification of national priorities and policy platforms for
financing climate resilient agrifood systems.
o Forum has facilitated discussions and deliberations on six key areas namely-
« (i) Climate resilient agriculture (experiences and pathways)
= (ii) Digital infrastructure and solutions
« (iii) Financing climate resilient agrifood systems (domestic and global)
» (iv) Climate resilient value chains
» (v) Production practices and inputs for climate resilience and
» (vi) Gender mainstreaming and social inclusion for climate resilience.
January 2024 29
Knowledge Nuggets
About NITI Aayog-
e Headquarters-New Delhi
e Established-2015
e Chairman-Prime Minister of India (Current PM- Narendra Modi)
¢ CEO-B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
About FAO-
e Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is a specialized

agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger
and improve nutrition and food security.
e Headquarters-Rome,
Italy
e Established-1945
¢ Director General-Qu Dongyu
¢ Motto- fiat panis in Latin (Let there be bread)
Source: PIB
43. Union Minister, Shri Pralhad Joshi has inaugurated the second State Mining
Ministers’ Conference in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
e Key points-
oO Conference focuses to promote sustainable mining in the country.
oO An exhibition “Beyond Mining” has been organized on the sidelines of the

Conference.
A new online platform called the Average Sale Price (ASP) module has been
launched.
ASP automatically retrieves real-time data from submitted returns on

ipbmreturns.gov.in.
A New template for Star Rating of Mines, an online platform based on the industry
feedback and the experience of previous years has been launched.
Source: PIB
January 2024
44. Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs, V.Muraleedharan has represented India
and addressed at the Plenary session of the Group of 77 +China (G-77+China) 3rd
South Summit, held in Kampala, Uganda.
e Key points-
o Theme of Summit- Leaving No One Behind
o QObjective-
= To improve South-South cooperation including in the areas of trade, investment,

sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and digital
economy.
Source: ANI
45. 63rd Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) meeting has been organized by
Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of Mines has been held on 22nd January
2024 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
e Key points-
© GSI has released the Mineral Map of the newly carved out UT of Ladakh.
© GSI has formulated about 1055 scientific programs for the year 2024-25.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB)-
e [itis an important platform of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of

Mines wherein the Annual Field Season Program (FSP) of GSI is placed for
discussion and to avoid duplication of work.
About Geological Survey of India (GSI)-
¢ Geological Survey of India (GSI) was set up primarily to find coal deposits for
the Railways.
e Headquarters- Kolkata, West Bengal
e Established- 1851
e Founder- Thomas Oldham
e Director General- Janardan Prasad
Source: PIB
46. Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya M Scindia has inaugurated Largest
Aviation Expo of Asia “Wings India 2024" at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad,
Telangana.
e Key points-
© Theme- Connecting India to the World in Amrit Kaal: Setting the Stage for India Civil
Aviation @2047
o Seven major announcements were made at Wings India 2024-
» Release of the joint knowledge paper on civil aviation by FICC] and KPMG
» Launch of UDAN 5.3
» Launch of the Airbus-Air India Training Centre, with the purchase of more
airplanes and the setting of a flight training center in Gurugram with 10 flight
simulators and 10,000 pilots being trained in the coming years
» Airbus manufacturing contracts with TATA ASL and Mahindra Aerospace

Structures Pvt. Ltd. to foster more pilots.
January 2024 32
= GMR and IndiGo also signed a consortium to collaborate with multiple patterns
in developing sustainable training in the aerospace industry
» Inauguration of the GMR School of Aviation
=» Deal announcement of Akasa Air with a triple order of 200 aircrafts in a period
of 17 months
Knowledge Nuggets
What is UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme?
e It was launched for regional airport development and regional connectivity

enhancement as a part of the National Civil Aviation Policy 2016.
e Scheme is applicable for a period of 10 years.
Source: PIB
47. Ministry of Rural Development has launched Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National

Rural Livelihoods Mission’s (DAY-NRLM's) “SARATHI" app at Krishi Bhawan, New
Delhi.
e Objective-
© To fill the gap between government schemes and their beneficiaries.
e More about SARATHI App-
© Itis developed in partnership with The/Nudge Institute.
© It allows for consistent monitoring and tracking of livelihood planning as well as

progress.
© Real-time usage of the app mitigates the risk of leakage of consumption and
livelihood support being provided to the target households.
© SARATHI has been well-embedded in the LokOS system.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
What is LokOS system?
e LokOS mobile application, is a system to record and register details of

neighbourhood groups, and community and area development societies in
rural areas.
e It is designed and developed under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Rural
Development.
Source: rural.gov.in, The Hindu
State News
1. Uttar Pradesh has ranked 1st in country in Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (|CJS)
for 3rd consecutive year.
e More about ICJS-
e ICJS platform facilitates the seamless transfer of data and information among various
pillars of criminal justice system worldwide.
o It was conceptualized by Supreme court's e -committee and implemented by Ministry

of Home Affairs.
eo Mainly the data related to crime and criminals is exchanged between courts, police,
jails and forensic laboratories through single window system.
e Rankings of Various States in ICJS-
State Rank
Uttar Pradesh 1
Madhya Pradesh 2
Bihar 3
Source: Daily Pioneer
2. Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh will be developed as first Artificial Intelligence (Al) city of India.
e More about Al city-
°o Alcity will include research centres and educational institutions which will be
integrated with cutting edge technology.
January 2024
o Nodal agency for the project is UP Electronics Corporation Limited.
© Expression of Interest (Eol) is issued for inviting real estate developers to build and
operate Al city.
o As per Eol developer will receive financial support in the form of alluring financial
incentives -
» A one-time capital expenditure support of 25% up to Rs 20 crore for IT Park and Rs

100 crore for IT City
» 100% stamp duty exemption in accordance with the IT and ITeS Policy, 2022
Source: DNA
3. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has released new website for resolving issues of
Non Resident Indians (NRIs).
e Key features of website-
o URL - nri.punjab.gov.in
o Purpose - NRIs can access various government services with a single click and get
their documents attested easily on the website.
o Website contains information about NRI police, State Commission for NRIs, and NRI
Sabha.
eo NRIs can learn about and avail government scheme benefits and get legal,
administrative, and general support through helpline, email, and WhatsApp.
Source: ET
4. Leh Ladakh in India and Lam Dong in Vietnam have launched historic cultural exchange
and tourism collaboration.
e Key points-
o Lam Dong boasts a temperate climate and rich cultural heritage will act as a potential
tourist spot.
eo Samten Hills Dalat, a Buddhist site is home to the world's largest prayer wheel.
o Samten Hills Dalat serves as a symbol of friendship and cultural diplomacy.
5. Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social

Justice and Empowerment has organised ‘Divya Kala Mela’ from 29th December 2023 -
January 2024 35
7th January 2024 in Surat, Gujrat.
e Objective-
o To provide a platform for marketing and showcasing the products and skills of
Divyangjan (PwD) from various parts of the country.
Source: PIB
6. Gujarat has set Guiness World Record for the most people performing Surya Namaskar
simultaneously.
e Key points-
eo Over 4,000 participants across 108 locations and 51 different categories have
performed Surya Namaskar.
o Record-breaking event was held at the majestic Modhera Sun Temple.
Source: livemint
7. Gujarat has emerged as the ‘petro capital’ of India due to the presence of significant oil
and petrochemical facilities.
e Why Gujarat is recognised as petro capital?
o Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) operates the world's largest grassroot oil refinery in
Jamnagar, Gujarat, which is the largest and most complex single-site refinery globally,
with a crude processing capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day (MMBPD).
eo Additionally, Gujarat is home to the OPaL petrochemical complex located at Dahej in

Bharuch district.
Knowledge Nuggets
¢ The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIRS) at

Dahej in Gujarat's Bharuch district is one of the four PCPIRS declared by the
Centre under the PCPIR Policy 2007, as per its website.
Source: ET
8. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has launched ‘K-SMART' application to provide
digital access to services offered by local self-government bodies through a unified
January 2024 36
platform across the state.
e More about K-SMART-
o K-SMART stands for ‘Kerala Solutions for Managing Administrative Reformation and
Transformation’.
© Initially, it will provide eight services covering areas such as the registration of births,
deaths, and marriages, business licenses, property taxes, etc.
o Currently, it is implemented in corporations and municipalities across the state, and

from 1 April, 2024, it will be extended to Gram Panchayats.
o Developed by- Information Kerala Mission
o Objective- to streamline local government services in Kerala with its 35 different

modules.
9. Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) has launched a grievance redressal
portal 'Awaam Se, Awaam Ke Liye’ for people and force personnel.
e Objective-
© To listen and address issues faced by citizen and police personnel in a more structure
and decentralised manner.
Source: ANI
10. Jammu and Kashmir has become the 1st Union Territory (UT) to implement the PM
Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY).
e Key points-
© The training program for the first batch of 30 trainees in ‘darzi craft' under the PM
Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY) was virtually inaugurated.
o The training program took place at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Shopian,
Jammu and Kashmir.
© The initiative aims to empower craftsmen through self-employment opportunities,

particularly in the 'darzi craft.’
January 2024 37
Knowledge Nuggets
About PM Vishwakarma Yojana

(PMVY)-
PM Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY) was initiated by the Central government in
September 2023.
Objective- to recognize artisans and craftspeople through PM Vishwakarma

certificates and ID cards.
It includes basic training, advanced training, a stipend of $500 per day, and a free
modern toolkit worth $15,000 for trained Vishwakarmas.
It offers linkage with credit-based soft loans, the first tranche of credit support is
up to Rs 1 lakh, and the second tranche is up to Rs 2 lakh at a concessional
interest rate of 5%.
Scheme encompasses 18 traditional trades, benefitting individuals in both rural

and urban areas.
Source: The Hindu
11. 3 products from Arunachal Pradesh have received Geographical Indication (Gl) tag.
e Details of product-
Products Product type
Adi kekir (Ginger) Agriculture

Handmade carpet by Tibetan settlers Handi Craft
Wooden items made by Wancho community Handi Craft

Knowledge Nuggets
What is GI tag?
e A geographical indication (Gl) is a sign used on products that have a specific

geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that
origin.
e Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 aims to

facilitate the registration and enhance the protection of geographical indications
associated with goods within the territory of India.
e Itis regulated and guided by the World Trade Organization's Agreement on

Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
e In order to function as a Gl, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given

place.
Source: ET
12. West Bengal government has notified ‘Poila Boisakh’ as State Day and ‘Banglar Mati
Banglar Jal’ as State Song.
e Key points-
° Poila Boisakh is the first day of the Bengali New Year.
© Poila Boisakh festival generally falls on 14 or 15 April.
o Banglar Mati Banglar Jal has been written by Rabindranath Tagore.
Source: The Hindu
13. Assam has celebrated 14th Chandubi Festival from January 1 to January 5, 2024.
e More about Chandubi festival-
eo Chandubi Festival is an annual 5-day event that highlights and celebrates the cultural
heritage of Assam's tribal communities.
© The festival takes place near the Chandubi lake, located 64 km away from Guwahati
city in Assam.
°o 2024 edition of the festival was organized by the residents of Rajapara village in the
Kamrup district, under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC).
January 2024 39
Source: SAssam
14. Jharkhand has reduced the age limit for old age pension.
e Key points-
o Age limit is reduced to 50 years from 60 years for receiving old age pension.
eo Reduction in age limit is applicable to SC, ST and OBC communities.
Source: TOI
15. 3 varieties of handloom sarees in West Bengal and 7 products from Odisha have received
Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
e Details of products-
Products State Product Type
Tangail Sarees West Bengal Handloom
Korial Sarees West Bengal Handloom
Garad Sarees West Bengal Handloom
Kapdaganda shawl Odisha Handioom
Lanjia Saura Painting Odisha Art
Koraput Kala Jeera Rice Odisha Food
Similipal Kai chutney Odisha Food
Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal Odisha Food
Odisha Khajuri Guda Odisha Food
Dhenkanal Magji Odisha Food
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Gl tag?
e A geographical indication (Gl) is a sign used on products that have a specific

geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that
origin.
e Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 aims to

facilitate the registration and enhance the protection of geographical indications
associated with goods within the territory of India.
e Itis regulated and guided by the World Trade Organization's Agreement on

Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
Source: NIE, Indian Express
16. Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu has launched 2 governance portals.
¢ Portals launched- Report Management Portal (RMP) and Meeting Management Portal
(MMP)
e Objective- To revolutionise communication, decision-making and data management within

the government.
e Developed by- Department of Digital Technology and Governance
Source: Tribune India
17. Assam government has launched ‘Baayu’, India’s 100% electric bike taxi service.
e Objective-
°o To improve the air quality and public health of cities by deploying electric vehicles in
transport and logistics sector.
e Key points-
© Itis an initiative of of state government run Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC)
in collaboration of Bikizee Ecotech.
o Baayu aims to generate 5000 livelihood opportunities.
o Itis supported by NITI Aayog's Shoonya Zero pollution mobility campaign
Source: ET
January 2024
18. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has inaugurated the ‘International Kite Festival 2024’ in
Ahmedabad.
e Key points-
o Venue- Sabarmati Riverfront, Vallabh Sadan in Anmedabad
o Date- January 7th to 14th
o 153 international kite flyers from 55 countries, 68 national kite flyers from 12 states, and
865 kite flyers from 23 cities in Gujarat are participating in the International Kite
Festival.
Source: cmogujarat
19. West Bengal government has launched ‘Yogyasree’ scheme for Scheduled
Caste/Scheduled Tribes students.
¢ Details of Yogyasree Scheme-
o Itis anew welfare scheme for students aimed at providing training for various entrance
and competitive exams.
eo 50 centres will be opened across the state where SC and ST students will be able to
take training completely free of cost for competitive examinations.
© Similar 46 centres will offer free training to SC and ST students aspiring for government
jobs, civil services etc.
o Other initiative-
» Aninternship program for students has also been launched to provide internship to
2500 students.
Source: ET
20. Punjab has become the first state to map accident black spots as part of the Road Safety.
e Objective-
© To elevate the overall safe driving experience on roads of Punjab.
e key points-
o Punjab Police has mapped all 784 accident black spots across the state on their
navigation system Mappls App in collaboration with MapMyIndia.
January 2024 42
© Citizens navigating using Mappls App will now receive voice alerts in Punjabi alerting
the commuters about the black spot ahead.
21. Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched 'Mukhya Mantri Mahila
Udyamita Abhiyan' scheme.
e Objective-
o To develop 4 million Self-Help-Group (SHG) women as rural micro-entrepreneurs and

help them become lakhpati baidos (elder sister)'.
e About Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan-
o Under the scheme, eligible women gets Rs 35,000 over the period of 3 years.
« Phase | - Each eligible woman will get Rs 10,000 in the first year (Entrepreneurship
Fund).
« Phase Il - Loan amount of Rs 25,000 will be availed to the SHG Members from the
bank over the next two years.
» Rs 25,000 will be split into two halves for which Rs 12,500 is of government's
money (Capital Subsidy, non-refundable) and Rs 12,500 of the bank must be repaid.
° To access the grant, beneficiaries need a government-supported business plan.
ce Beneficiaries of the scheme will have to fulfill certain socio-economic criteria-
» women belonging to OBC category should not have more than 3 children
» women belonging to SC/ST category should not have more than 4 children
» SHG member with girl children must enroll them in school
22. 9th edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival, a state festival of Arunachal Pradesh, has
been celebrated at Seijosa in the Pakke Kessang district from January 18-20, 2024.
e Objective-
© To recognise the role played by the Nyishi tribe in conserving hornbills in Pakke Tiger
Reserve of Arunachal Pradesh.
e Key points-
o Festival focuses on wildlife conservation, with a particular emphasis on hornbills.
January 2024 43
°o Theme of festival for 2024- Domutoh Domutoh, Paga hum Domutoh (Let Our
Hornbills Remain)
o Four species of the birds are found in the Pakke Tiger Reserve-
» Wreathed hornbill
« Great Indian hornbill

» Oriental Pied hornbill
» Rufous-necked hornbill
°o Nyishi tribe had formerly hunted hornbills and used their bills to craft traditional
headgear, but later they had turned hornbill conservationists.
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Source: DTE
23. Goa has become the 1st state in the country to launch a model for “regenerative tourism”.
e Objective-
January 2024
© Toredefine tourism by promoting environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and
community empowerment.
e What is regenerative tourism?

© Itis an approach of travel and tourism that aims to not only minimize the negative
impacts of tourism but also actively contribute to the restoration and enhancement of
the natural and cultural resources of destination.
Source: Financial Express
24. Kachchhi Kharek, indigenous dates of Kutch has become 2nd fruit from Gujarat to get Gl
tag.
e Key points-
© It has received Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Controller General of Patents,
Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDT) of India.
© Presence of dates in Kachchh (Kutch) is believed to be around 400-500 years old.
25. 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 has been held from 10th to 12th
January.
e Key points-
o Theme- Gateway to the Future
© Chief guest- United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
ec Event has witnessed the participation of 34 partner countries and delegates from over
130 countries.
oe Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for 41,299 projects with investment

proposals worth Rs 26.33 lakh crore were signed during the event.
Source: HT, BS
26. Prime Minister has inaugurated the new State-of-Art campus of the National Academy of
Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) at Palasamudram, Sri Sathya Sai District,
Andhra Pradesh.
e Objective-
o To improve governance through Civil Service Capacity Building.
e Key points-
January 2024
°o NACIN will focus on the use of new age technologies such as Augmented & Virtual
Reality, Block-chain as well as Artificial Intelligence and other emerging Technologies
for training and capacity building.
o He also released a book titled 'Flora of Palasamudra’
Source: DH
27. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated projects worth more than Rs 4000 crore in
line with the Prime Minister's vision to transform India's ports, shipping, and waterways
sector, and build capacity and self- sufficiency in it.
e Key projects-
o New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

© International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) of CSL
o LPG import terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited Puthuvypeen, Kochi
Source: ET
28. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated the opening ceremony of the Khelo India
Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
e Key points-
o Khelo India Youth Games will be held in Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, and Coimbatore
from 19th to 31st January 2024.
o Mascot- Veera Mangai, inspired by Rani Velu Nachiyar who fought a war against
British colonial rule.
o Logo for the games incorporates the figure of poet Thiruvalluvar.
© It includes 26 sporting disciplines, including Silambam, a traditional sport of Tamil

Nadu, is being introduced as a demo sport for the first time in the history of the Khelo
India Youth Games.
Source: livemint
29. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new state-of-the-art Boeing India
Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC) campus in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
e Key points-
o Itis built with an investment of Rs 1,600 crores, and is Boeing's largest such
investment outside the USA.
January 2024 46
° Prime Minister has also launched the Boeing Sukanya Program.
» It aims to support the entry of more girl children from across India into the growing
aviation sector of country.
» It will provide opportunities for girls and women from across India to learn critical
skills in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) fields and train for
jobs in the aviation sector.
» It will create STEM Labs at 150 planned locations to help spark interest in STEM
careers.
» It will also provide scholarships to women who are training to be pilots.
Source: Pl
30. Himachal Pradesh Government has launched the 'My School-My Pride’ campaign under
the 'Apna Vidyalay' programme, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020.
e Objective-
° To improve the quality of education in government schools by fostering collaboration

among various stakeholders.
e More about Apna Vidyalay Programme-
° This initiative will encourage active participation from individuals and organisations to
adopt schools and contribute to various aspects of students’ growth.
Stakeholders will be requested to provide career counselling, offer remedial teaching,

coach students for examinations, and engage in community support services.
It also involves monetary contributions for infrastructure development, event

sponsorship, scholarships, and support for the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme.
Retired employees, housewives or any other member of the society will be encouraged
to to teach the students without taking any payment under ‘Giving back to society’
initiative.
Members of Parliament, MLAs, and government officers are encouraged to adopt at

least one government school as patrons.
‘Systematic adolescent management and value addition dialogue’ (SAMVAD)

component will educate school going adolescents on moral values, drug awareness,
nutrition, legal knowledge, and empowerment schemes.
Source: HT
January 2024 47
31. Gujarat Chief Minister has launched "Smritivan, An Unparalleled Apotheosis Of
Commemoration To 2001 Victims Of Gujarat Earthquake" Coffee-Table Book.
e Key points-
o Published by- Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA)
© Book narrates the tale of the transformation of Bhujia Dungar and Gujarat's
developmental trajectory after the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake
o Smritivan was created to honour the earthquake victims, has now evolved into the
world's largest Miyawaki Forest, with a plantation of 5,50,000 trees.
Source: cmogujarat
International News
1. 5 New countries have joined BRICS in 2024.
e Key points-
eo BRICS bloc, consisting of India, Russia, China, and others, has expanded its
membership by inducting five new full members.
o Argentina, initially approved for BRICS membership but withdrew its participation under
its new President Javier Milei.
o New BRICS members-
» Egypt
Ethiopia
» |ran
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About BRICS-
e BRICS refers to a consortium of prominent emerging economies, encompassing

Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
e The term BRIC, initially coined by British Economist Jim O'Neill in 2001, identified
the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China.
e The formal establishment of this grouping took place during the inaugural
meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers in 2006.
e South Africa joined BRIC in December 2010, leading to the adoption of the
acronym BRICS.
e BRICS unites five major developing nations, representing 41% of the global
population, 24% of the global GDP, and contributing to 16% of the global trade.
e The chairmanship of the BRICS forum rotates annually among its members, in
accordance with the acronym B-R-I-C-S.
e India assumed the chairmanship for the BRICS Summit in 2021, marking its turn in
the rotational leadership.
e 2024 BRICS Chairmanship: Russia
2. India and Saudi Arabia have signed bilateral Haj Agreement 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi
Arabia.
e Key points-
© A total quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India has been finalised for Haj 2024.
© Out of total seats, 1,40,020 seats reserved for pilgrims to proceed through Haj
Committee whereas 35,005 pilgrims would be permitted to proceed through private
operators.
Source: The Hindu
3. Japan has launched an H-TIA rocket carrying Cabinet Satellite Information Center's
Information-Gathering Satellite (IGS) "Optical-8” into a 500- kilometre-altitude sun-
synchronous orbit (SSO).
January 2024
e More about IGS-
© It was the 48th launch of Japan's flagship launch vehicle since 2001.
o IGS satellites serve both Japan's national defense and civil natural disaster monitoring
and capture high-resolution images at night and in bad weather.
¢ What is a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) ?

o A Sun synchronous orbit is like a walking path in space that is designed to match the
solar orbit period of planet, making its orbital plane follow the sun's path closely.
Source: reuters
4. Denmark has started a new project called "Green Fuels Alliance India" to strengthen
teamwork between India and Denmark in the field of sustainable energy solutions.
e Objective-
°o To boost sustainable growth in India by fostering collaboration among businesses,

government entities, research institutions, and financial stakeholders from both Indian
and Danish sectors.
e Key points-
© Project will help both countries work together to achieve the shared global aim of
carbon neutrality.
eo Danish Embassy and the Consulate General of Denmark in India are leading this
initiative.
Knowledge Nugget
About GFAI-
e GFAI is crucial for advancing the green fuels sector, especially green hydrogen,
by promoting innovation, collaboration, and partnerships between Danish
industries and their Indian counterparts.
e India aims for carbon neutrality by 2070.
Source: ET
5. China has launched new satellite 'Einstein Probe' shaped like a lotus to observe violent
cosmic phenomena.
January 2024 50
e Objective-
o To observe mysterious transient phenomena in the universe that flicker like fireworks.
e More about Einstein Probe-
o It uses X-ray detection technology inspired by functioning of lobster eye.
eo It was launched by Long March-2C carrier.
Source: DH
6. World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Cabo Verde (also known as Cape Verde)
as a malaria-free country.
e Key points-
o It became the 3rd country to acquire the status in the African region.
o It has now joined Mauritius and Algeria, who were certified in 1973 and 2019,
respectively.
o Africa has the highest malaria burden and accounted for roughly 95% of global malaria
cases and 96% of related deaths in 2021.
January 2024 51
Knowledge Nuggets
About WHO-
e¢ World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations

responsible for international public health.
e Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland
e Established- 1948
e Director General- Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Source: DTE
7. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has led the Indian delegation to 19th Non-
Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in, Kampala, Uganda.
¢ More about Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit-
co Uganda has assumed the NAM chairmanship for 2024-2027.
o Last Chairmanship was with Azerbaijan for the period of 2019-2023.
o Ist NAM Summit Conference took place in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in September 1961.
o Theme of 19th NAM summit- 'Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence.’
o More than 120 developing countries including India, Nepal, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Vietnam,
and Iran, among other have participated in the summit.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is NAM-
e« NAM is a forum of 120 countries that are not formally aligned with or against any
major power bloc.
e It was formed during the Cold War as an organization of States that did not seek
to formally align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union, but
sought to remain independent or neutral.
e Former Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru was founding members of

NAM.
January 2024 52
Source: DD News
8. Cameroon in Africa has became the 1st country in the world to launch the RTS, S malaria
vaccine for children into its routine national immunisation services.
e Key points-
oe Cameroon will use the first of two recently approved malaria vaccines, known as
Mosauirix.
o Africa experiences an annual burden of approximately 250 million cases of a parasitic

disease, resulting in around 600,000 deaths.
Knowledge Nuggets
v
About Malaria-
¢ Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito borne blood disease caused by

plasmodium parasites.
e¢ World Malaria Day is observed on 25 April.
Source: The Hindu
January 2024 53
Banking and Economy
1. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended the deadline for introduction of new penal
charges regime by 3 months upto April 1, 2024.
e Key points -
° The original effective date for these changes was January 1, 2024.
° The extension applies to new loans, and regulated entities (banks) must implement the
new instructions for all fresh loans taken from April 1, 2024, onwards.
For existing loans, the transition to the new penal charges regime should happen on the
next review/renewal date on or after April 1, 2024, but no later than June 30, 2024.
These guidelines were introduced to prevent banks from using penal charges as a way
to increase revenue instead of promoting credit discipline among borrowers.
Penalties for loans granted to individual borrowers for non-business purposes should
not exceed those applicable to non-individual borrowers for similar non-compliance.
These guidelines do not apply to credit cards, as they are covered under specific
directions for that product.
Source: livemint
2. Bandhan Bank has introduced ‘INSPIRE’ program designed exclusively for senior citizens.
e Key features of ‘INSPIRE’ program-
° Senior citizens will receive various perks, including preferential interest rates, priority
banking services, and doorstep banking facilities, from the bank.
The bank also provides life care benefits, such as exclusive discounts on medication
purchases, diagnostic services, and medical treatments.
Senior citizens can take advantage of fixed deposit interest rates of up to 8.35% fora
500-day tenure.
For tax-saver fixed deposits, senior citizens can enjoy a 7.5% per annum interest rate.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bandhan Bank
e Headquarters- Kolkata
e Established- 2001
¢« CEO- Chandra Shekhar Ghosh
Source: livemint
3. Central government has appointed former Niti Aayog vice chairman and Columbia
University professor Arvind Panagariya as the chairman of the 16th Finance Commission.
e Key points-
o Commission will recommend the tax revenue sharing formula between the Centre and
the States for the 5-year period beginning April 2026.
© October 2025 is the deadline set for the Commission to submit its recommendations.
o Commission is tasked with evaluating the existing financing arrangements for Disaster
Management initiatives and propose measures to enhance the States' consolidated
funds to better support disaster management efforts.
o Itis also suggest states to supplement resources available to Panchayats and

Municipalities for effective disaster response at the grassroots level.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Finance Commission?
e Itis a constitutional body set up under Article 280 of the Constitution.
e Itis set up every five years to make recommendations on the distribution of

financial resources between the Union and the states.
Source: The Hindu
4. Indian economy is expected to comfortably surpass the government's growth estimate of

6.5% in FY24 as per Finance Ministry's Half-Yearly Economic Review 2023-24 report.
January 2024
°
e Key points-
° Real GDP grew by 7.7% in the first half of FY24, which is primarily driven by strong
domestic consumption and investment.
Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) has increased by 4.5%, contributing to

60.4% of the GDP.
India became the fastest-growing major economy in the first half of FY24 due to better-
than-expected growth in Q2.
Headline inflation is on a declining trend and projected to average 5.4% in FY24.
Core inflation remains stable at 4.1%, while food inflation stood at 8.7% in November
2023.
Urban unemployment rate has decreased from 7.2% in Q2 FY23 to 6.6% in Q2 FY24.
Net payroll additions under EPFO has grew by 18.9% in H1 FY24, showing broad-based
growth across age groups.
Net tax revenue has increased by 11.2% YoY to 213 lakh crore (Apr-Oct 2023).
Direct taxes displayed robust collections, with a 17.4% YoY growth in corporate taxes.
GST collections have reflected the momentum of economic activity, with a 12% YoY
increase in November 2023.
Merchandise exports have contracted by 8.8% in H1 FY24.
Overall trade deficit has reduced to $39.9 billion in H1 FY24 from $75.3 billion in H1
FY23.
Source: livemint
5. Ministry of Heavy Industries has extended the tenure of the Production Linked Incentive
(PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components by 1 year.
e Objective-
° To provide clarity and flexibility to the scheme and to ensure a level playing field for all
approved companies and safeguard those who front-loaded their investments.
e Key points-
° Amendments are effective from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
° Incentive will be applicable for a total of five consecutive financial years, starting from
the financial year 2023-24 and disbursement of the incentive will take place in the
financial year 2024-25.
January 2024 56
© Approved applicants will be eligible for benefits for five consecutive financial years, but
not beyond the financial year ending on March 31, 2028.
o Total indicative incentive amounting to Rs. 25,938 crore will be provided under the
initiative.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is PLI Scheme?
e Production Linked Incentive is a government initiative that provides incentives to

manufacturers to boost domestic production in specific industries.
e Under the PLI scheme, companies receive financial incentives based on the
increase in their production, encouraging them to scale up manufacturing
capabilities, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to economic growth.
e Objective-
eo To reduce dependency on imports, promote self-sufficiency, and generate

employment in the targeted sectors.
e Launched in- March 2020
Source: Pl
6. Bank of India has introduced Super Special Fixed Deposit with an attractive interest rate of
7.50% per annum exclusively for domestic rupee term deposits.
e Key features-
o Deposit Amount- between %2 Crores and below Rs. 50 Crores
o Maturity period- Fixed maturity period of 175 days
oe Scheme start date- January 1st, 2024
ec Benefit for senior citizens-

» Senior citizens aged 60 and above but below 80 will get an extra 0.50% interest on
retail term deposits (below Rs. 2 Crores) with a tenor of 6 months and above, up to
3 years.
» Those aged 80 years and above will be eligible for an additional interest rate of
0.65%.
e Whatis term deposit?
January 2024
o Aterm deposit refers to investments like a fixed deposit or recurring deposit that are
made for a predetermined period of time to earn higher interest than a savings account.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Bank of India-
e Itis a public sector bank.
¢ Headquarters- Mumbai
e Established- 1906
e MD &CEO- Rajneesh Karnatak
Source: livemint
7. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised guidelines for classifying accounts and deposits as
inoperative accounts and unclaimed deposits by banks.
e Whatis an inoperative account?
o A savings or current account becomes inoperative if there are no 'customer induced

transactions’ for a period exceeding two years.
e How unclaimed deposit is defined?
o Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 10 years or term deposits

unclaimed for 10 years are classified as 'unclaimed deposits.’
e RBI Guidelines:
o RBI directs banks to conduct an annual review for accounts with no customer induced
transactions for over a year.
ce Account holders can reactivate inoperative accounts/unclaimed deposits by submitting

KYC documents at any bank branch, including non-home branches.
co Banks must credit interest on savings accounts regularly, irrespective of the operational
status of the account.
8. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted payment aggregator (PA) license to Tata Pay,
TATA group's digital payment app and Bengaluru based identity verification startup DigiO.
January 2024 58
Knowledge Nuggets
What are payment aggregators (PA)?
e Payment aggregators (also known as merchant aggregators) mean third-

party service providers that allow merchants to accept payments from customers
by integrating them into their websites or apps.
Source: ET
9. Bajaj Finserv has launched first credit pass of India powered by Credit Information Bureau
(India) Limited (CIBIL).
e Objective-
° To provide customers with real-time access to their credit dashboard for tracking and
monitoring credit health.
Knowledge Nuggets
About CIBIL-
e Itis a credit information company which maintains credit files of a number of

citizens and companies.
e Established- 2000
e Headquarters- Mumbai
e Managing Director- Rajesh Kumar
Source: ANI
10. World Bank has issued bonds in 3 currencies to finance green and social projects in
member countries.
e Bonds launched-
Bonds Tenure Amount
Australian Dollar Sustainable

5 years 2 billion
Bond
January 2024 59.

Bonds Tenure Amount
US Dollar Sustainable Bond 7 years 5 billion
ian
Canadian Doll tainabl
Dollar Sustainable veare 1.4 billion
Bond
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Bank-
e Itis an international financial institution which provides loans and grants to the
governments of low and middle-income countries for the purpose of pursuing
capital projects.
e It was created at Bretton Woods Conference, along with the International

Monetary Fund (IMF).
e¢ Headquarters- Washington DC, USA
e Established- 1944
e President- Ajay Banga
Source: World Bank
11. OLA Electric has become 1st Electronic Vehicle (EV) company to get Production Linked
Incentive (PL!) approval.
e Key points-
eo OLA Electric has successfully passed the eligibility requirements such as minimum of
50% domestic value addition to its vehicle.
o PLI certification will provide financial incentives which will increase the affordability of
electric vehicles.
e Whatis PLI scheme?
o Production Linked Incentive is a government initiative that provides incentives to

manufacturers to boost domestic production in specific industries.
Source: ET
12. RBI has directed Regulated entities (REs) and their Internal Ombudsmen (IOs) to ensure
that a final decision is communicated to customers within a period of 30 days from the date
January 2024 60
of receipt of complaint.
e Objective-
o To improve consumer grievance redressal within the regulated entities and improve
customer service standards.
e Other directives-
o Regulated entities must create automated software to manage rejected complaints, and
escalate them to the Internal Ombudsman for a final decision within 20 days.
o REs have to provide “read-only” access to their Complaint Management Software so

that all complaints are accessible to the IO.
°o Decision of Internal Ombudsman will be binding on the regulated entity, except in cases
where the latter has obtained approval for disagreeing with such decision.
e Age and tenure of Internal Ombudsman (IO) and Deputy Internal Ombudsman (DIO)-
o Age- Should not be over 70 years of age before the completion of the tenure.
eo Tenure- Fixed term of not less than 3 years, but not exceeding 5 years.
o They are not be eligible for reappointment or for extension of term in the same
regulated entity.
Source: Hindu Business Line
13. State Bank of India has raised $250 million through Green Bonds to finance green
projects.
e Key points-
o SBI has raised amount through senior unsecured Green floating rate notes, referred to
as ‘The Green Notes’.
o Tenure- 5 years
o Maturity date- December 29, 2028.
o Green Notes are rated BBB- by S&P, and they are issued on a floating rate basis of
1.20% above Secured Overnight Financing Rates (SOFR).
eo Green bonds are listed on the India International Exchange and proceeds will be
allocated to eligible green projects according to the bank’s ESG Financing Framework.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Green Bond?
e [tis a type of fixed-income instrument that is specifically earmarked to raise

money for climate and environmental projects.
What is Secured Overnight Financing Rates (SOFR)?
e Secured Overnight Financing Rate is a secured overnight interest rate.
e It is a benchmark interest rate for dollar-denominated derivatives and loans that

replaced LIBOR.
Source: The Hindu
14. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has relaxed norms on
investment in infrastructure debt funds (IDFs) of non-banking financial companies
(NBFCs) by insurance companies.
e Objective-
© To encourage investments by insurers in the sector and to increase the ease of doing
business.
e Relaxed norms-
© Insurers are allowed to make investments in IDF-NBFCs which are registered with the
RBI.
o IDF-NBFCs must have a minimum credit rating of AA or its equivalent by a Credit Rating
Agency registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi).
co Debt securities will have a residual tenure of not less than 5 years.
January 2024 62
Knowledge Nuggets
About IRDAI-
e Itis a statutory body tasked with regulating and licensing the insurance and re-
insurance industries in India.
e Headquarters- Hyderabad, Telangana
e Chairperson- Debasish Panda
e Established- 1999
e Ministry- Ministry of Finance, Government of India
15. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has successfully priced USD 5 billion in dual-tranche
global benchmark bond, securing USD 3 billion for a 3-year issuance and USD 2 billion for
a 10-year issuance.
e Objective-
© To promote social and economic development across the expansive region of Asia and
the Pacific.
e Details of 3-year bond-
o Coupon rate- 4.125% per annum
o Payment frequency- semi-annually
© maturity date- January 12, 2027
o Priced at- 99.663%

o yields- 11.9 basis points over the 4.375% US Treasury notes due December 2026.
e Details of 10-year bond-
o Coupon rate- 4.125% per annum
o Payment frequency- semi-annually
o maturity date- January 12, 2027
o Priced at- 99.530%
o yields- 21.3 basis points over the 4.5 per cent US Treasury notes due November 2033.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Asian Development Bank-
e« Asian Development Bank is a regional development bank for social and economic
development.
e Headquarter- Manila, Philippines
e Established- 1966
e President- Masatsugu Asakawa
Source: The Print
16. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the minimum capital requirement for Small
Finance Banks (SFBs) from Rs 100 crore to Rs 200 crore.
e Objective-
© To improve the financial resilience of SFBs and ensure their long- term sustainability.
e Key points-
o RBI has also permitted Payments Banks to upgrade as Small Finance Banks.
o Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) which are transitioning to Small Finance Banks
(SFBs) need an initial net worth of Rs 100 crore, to be increased to Rs 200 crore within
5 years.
o Payments Banks which are eligible as per guidelines, can apply for SFB conversion
after 5 years of operation.
o SFBs will be granted scheduled bank status immediately upon commencement of

operations, and will get immediate general permission to open banking outlets.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Small Finance Bank-
e |tis a category of bank established to provide basic banking services and credit
facilities to underserved sections of the population, including small business
owners, micro and small industries, farmers, and the unorganized sector.
e They are regulated by RBI.
January 2024 64
Source: ET
17. Indusind Bank has launched UPI-enabled ‘Samman RuPay Credit Card’ for Government
Employees.
e Objective-
© To provide government employees with a range of exclusive benefits and enhance their
overall banking experience.
e Features of Cards-
o It uniquely blends the benefits of a traditional credit card with the advanced features of
UPI.
o It offers number of advantages, including cashback on diverse expenditures,

complimentary movie tickets, no charges on cash advances, and waivers on
surcharges for transactions done through IRCTC and fuel purchases.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indusind Bank-
e Established- 1994
e CEO- Sumant Kathpalia
Source: Indusind Bank
18. Indian Overseas Bank has introduced 'Savings Account Portability Online’ to offer an
easier savings account portability process for customers who move to different locations.
e Key points-
o Now, customers are not required to fill out multiple forms and wait for days or weeks for
the account transfer to materialize.
© To initiate an account transfer, customers need to log in to the IOB website (www.iob.in)
and access the ‘Transfer of Savings Accounts’ section.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Overseas Bank (IOB)-
e Indian Overseas Bank is an Indian public sector bank.
e Headquarters- Chennai
e Established- 1937
e CEO and MD- Ajay Kumar Srivastava
19. Zerodha Fund House has announced the launch of 1st Growth Liquid Exchange-Traded
Fund (ETF) of India.
e Key points-
o Listing date- Expected to list on NSE and BSE exchanges by 24th January 2024.
co Minimum application amount- 500
o ETF is named Zerodha Nifty 1D Rate Liquid ETF, it will replicate the Nifty 1D Rate Index.
© It primarily invests in TREPS (Treasury Bills Repurchase) traded on CCIL (Clearing

Corporation of India Limited) platform.
© It carries low credit risk and low-interest rate risk because the investment is made in
short term debt product backed by treasury bills.
o It offers a Growth NAV for the first time in India
Knowledge Nuggets-
About Zerodha Fund House-
e Zerodha fund house is a joint venture between Zerodha and Fintech platform
smallcase.
What is Nifty 1D Rate Index?
e It is an index which measures the returns generated by market participants

lending in the overnight market.
Source: ET
20. Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL) has become the 1st ISO 27001:2022 certified
petrochemical organisation in the industry by BSI (British Standards Institution).
e About ISO 27001:2022 is the standard-
© Itis the standard of ISMS (Information Security Management System) program to

protect the information asset of the organization.
e About British Standards Institution-
o Itis the first Standards Body of world and founding member of ISO from the United
Kingdom.
o It produces technical standards on various products, services, and supplies

certification and standards-related services to businesses.
Source: HPC
21. Indian Bank has partnered with FPL Technologies, NPCI, and VISA to launch the ‘Indian
Bank One Co-branded Credit Card’.
e Objective-
oe To provide various features designed for the different needs of tech-savvy Indian
consumers.
e Key feature of card-
eo Indian Bank One co-branded credit card can be used internationally, and it charges a
1% fee for foreign currency transactions.
o OneCard mobile app provides users with full digital control over their credit card,
enabling real-time transaction tracking, expense management, and rewards
redemption.
January 2024 67
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Bank-
e Itis an India public sector bank.
e Headquarters- Chennai, Tamil Nadu
e Established- 1907
« MD &CEO- Shanti Lal Jain
About NPCI-
e National Payments Corporation of India is an umbrella organization for operating

retail payments and settlement systems in India.
¢ Itis an initiative of RBI and Indian Bank Association (IBA).
e It was set up under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act,
2007.
e Established- 2008
e MD&CEO- Dilip Asbe
a2. State Bank of India (SBI) has launched the SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD)
scheme to mobilise funds for environment-friendly initiatives and projects, and to support
the growth of a green finance ecosystem in India.
Key features of SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit-
© Itis open to resident individuals, non-individuals, and NRI customers.
eo Premature withdrawal is allowed and Loan/ overdraft facility is also available against the
deposit.
o It offers investors the flexibility to choose from three distinct tenors-
Tenor Interest Rate (Retail deposit) Interest Rate (Bulk Deposit)
1111 days 6.65 % 6.15 %
1777 days 6.65 % 6.15 %
January 2024
Tenor Interest Rate (Retail deposit) Interest Rate (Bulk Deposit)
2222 days 6.40 % 5.90 %
Source: livemint
23. Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) to establish a wholly-owned finance company at the International Financial
Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City), Gujarat.
e Key points-
© This initiative has opened up new opportunities for PFC, contributing to the growth of
India's power sector.
co PFC operates as an infrastructure finance firm under the governance of the Ministry of
Power.
o Itis registered as a Systematically Important Non-Banking Financial Company (SI-

NBFC) with the RBI, and it plays an important role in the financial sector.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Power Finance Corporation-
e Itis an Indian central public sector undertaking under the ownership of the
Ministry of Power, Government of India.
e It provide a range of fund based and non fund based support to Indian power
sector.
e Established- 1986
e Chairman and Managing Director- Parminder Chopra
About GIFT City-
¢ GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) City is located in Gandhinagar,

Gujarat.
¢ It includes a versatile Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with India's inaugural

International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and a distinct Domestic Tariff Area
(DTA).
What is a Systematically Important Non-Banking Financial Company (SI-NBFC)?
e NBFCs whose asset size is of = 500 cr or more as per last audited balance
sheet are considered as systemically important NBFCs.
Source: ET
24. Narayana Health has received approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development
Authority of India (Irdai) to launch a health insurance business in India.
e Key points-
co IRDAI has approved the registration of Narayana Health Insurance Limited, allowing the
company to operate in the health insurance sector in India after a 5-year gap.
o After the approval, the count of Standalone Health Insurance Companies (SAHI) has
increased from 5 to 6.
eo According to the annual report of IRDAI, insurance penetration in India has decreased
from 4.2% in 2021-22 to 4% in 2022-23.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About IRDAI-
e Itis a statutory body under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
e Itis tasked with regulating and licensing the insurance and re-insurance
industries in India.
e It was established under Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act,

1999.
¢ Headquarters- Hyderabad, Telangana
e Chairperson- Debasish Panda
25. ICICI Bank Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICICI Bank Limited has introduced its
mobile banking application, "Money2india (Canada)".
¢ More about MoneyZ2India (Canada)-
o The app enables instant money transfer from any bank in Canada to any bank in India
eo Customers of other banks can also transfer money to India using this app
eo Users can send up to CAD 30,000 in a single transaction
Source: prnewswire
26. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed monetary penalties of about Rs.2.49 crore on
Dhanlaxmi Bank Limited, Punjab & Sind Bank and ESAF Small Finance Bank Limited for
contravention of regulatory norms.
e Details of penalty-
o Penalty of Rs 1.20 crore has been imposed on Dhanlaxmi Bank for non-compliance
with certain directions on 'Loans and Advances Statutory and Other Restrictions’,
KYC and certain norms related to interest rate on deposits.
o Penalty of Rs 1crore has been imposed on Punjab and Sind Bank for non-compliance
with certain directions on 'Loans and Advances Statutory and Other Restrictions’.
January 2024 71
o Penalty of Rs 29.55 lakh has been imposed on ESAF Small Finance Bank for non-
compliance with the directions issued by it on ‘Customer Service in Banks.
27. RBI has imposed monetary penalties on 5 cooperative banks for deficiencies in regulatory
compliance.
e RBI has imposed these penalties in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the
provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking
Regulation Act, 1949.
e List of Banks-
Bank Name Headquarters Amount of Penalty
eee Ankleshwar, dist. Bharuch,

Industrial
oe Co-operative Bank : Rs. 7 lakh
Gujarat
Limited
Mehsana = ill a aera t Mehsana, Gujarat Rs. 3 lakh

Karmachari Co-operative Bank
Halal Urban Co-operative Bank Halol, Gujarat Rs. 2 lakh

Limited
=nesianina
hadri Co-operati
Co- i Urban
ve Khammam, Telangana Rs. 50,000
Bank Limited
Subramanianagar Co-operative Salem, Tamil Nadu Rs. 25,000

Urban Bank Limited
Source: livemint
28. DLabs at the Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad, Telangana, has introduced a
startup accelerator program called "Build for Billions”.
e Objective-
°o To bridge gap between financial services and informal economy.
e More about Build for Billions-
e Itis a collaboration with the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) and Union Bank of
India (UB)).
© It will support fintech startups in developing financial inclusion solutions for informal
economy, including gig workers, migrant workers, etc.
January 2024 72
Knowledge Nuggets
About RBIH-
e Reserve Bank Innovation Hub is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Reserve Bank
of India (RBI) set-up to promote and facilitate an environment that accelerates
innovation across the financial sector.
e CEO- Rajesh Bansal
About Union Bank of India-

e Itis an Indian Public Sector Bank.
e Established- 1919
¢ MD &CEO- A. Manimekhalai
Source: TOI, rbihub
29. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has allowed investors to freeze or block
their trading account any suspicious activity is detected.
e Key points-
© Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has directed stock brokerages to lay out
a framework on this by April 1 and implement it from July 1, 2024.
© Guidelines will be formulated by the Industry Standards Forum (ISF) of Brokers under
the aegis of stock exchanges, and in consultation with the capital markets regulator.
° Guidelines will have a detailed policy for voluntary freezing or blocking the online
access of the trading account of the client.
o Stock exchanges are supposed to submit compliance report on this to SEBI by August
31, 2024.
January 2024 73
Knowledge Nuggets
What is a trading account?
e A trading account is an investment account which helps retail investors to buy or

sell securities.
e While trading in the stock market, the first step is opening of a demat account and
the second is opening of a trading account which enables investors to buy and
sell shares in the domestic market.
e Trading account is opened with a stock broking firm which, in turn, provides
access to the trading platform of a stock exchange, and allows the execution of
trades on behalf of the account holder.
30. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the licence of Hiriyur Urban Co-operative Bank
due to inadequate capital and earning prospects.
e Head office of Hiriyur Urban Co-operative Bank is located at Hiriyur, Karnataka.
Source: The Hindu
31. REC Limited, has successfully issued its inaugural Japanese Yen (JPY) 61.1 billion 5-year,
5.25-year and 10-year Green bonds, issued under its US$ 10 billion Global Medium Term
Notes Programme.
e Proceeds from the issue of the Bonds will be applied to finance the Eligible Green Projects
Source: PIB
32. US aircraft maker Boeing has announced the opening of a warehousing facility at Khurja in
Uttar Pradesh for parts supply.
e Key points-
© Itis one of eight distribution centres around the world that holds and ships spare parts
specifically for Boeing's commercial customers.
o It will support the emergent needs of spare parts for Boeing aircraft in India, reducing
lead times, improving availability, and supporting the MRO industry.
January 2024 74
33. Max Life has launched first-of-its-kind Midcap Momentum Index Fund in unit linked
insurance plan (ULIP) segment.
e More about Mid-cap Momentum Index Fund-
© New fund offering (NFO) is structured around the Nifty Midcap 150 Momentum 50
Index.
°o NFO aligns with the surging trend of index funds in India which have witnessed 175%
CAGR growth in asset under management (AUM) over the last three years (FY20-
FY 23).
Knowledge Nuggets
What is an Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP)?
e ULIP is an insurance plan that offers the dual benefit of investment to fulfil your
long-term goals, and a life cover to financially protect your family in case of an
unfortunate event.
e The premium paid towards a ULIP is divided into two parts.
e Apart of it is contributed to life cover, and the remaining is invested in the fund of
your choice.
e One can choose to invest in equity, debt, or a combination of both funds as per
your risk appetite and goals.
Source: moneycontrol, ICICI
34. World Economic Forum Center for Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), 1st thematic centre
in India to focus on life sciences and healthcare will be set up in Hyderabad, Telangana.
e Key points-
© Telangana government and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have signed a
collaboration agreement between the during the annual meeting of WEF in Davos.
o Centre - C4IR Telangana will be an autonomous, non-profit organization, leading on

policy and governance for healthcare and life sciences.
o It will play an important role in transforming the regional, national and global healthcare
sector, and improving patient access and outcomes.
January 2024 75
© Itis the only centre of the World Economic Forum in India with a thematic focus on
healthcare and life sciences.
Knowledge Nuggets
About WEF-
e Itis an international non-governmental organization for public-private sector

collaboration.
e It was founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab, a business professor at the University of
Geneva.
e Headquarters- Cologny, Switzerland
e President- Borge Brende
Source: DH
35. Life Insurance Corporation of India has overtaken State Bank of India to become the most
valuable Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in term of market capitalization.
Source: livemint
36. ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has introduced ICICI Pru Guaranteed Pension Plan Flexi
with ‘benefit enhancer’.
¢ More about Guaranteed Pension Plan Flexi-
o Annuity plan offers customers the flexibility to receive a full premium refund at any
point from the date of purchase.
© It offers a variety of annuity options such as-
» Customers can opt for a single life option, ensuring income for their lifetime
» They can also choose a joint life option, in which after one annuitant passes away,
the income is extended to the spouse, child, parent, or sibling, referred to as the
secondary annuitant.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About ICICI Prudential Life Insurance-
e MD &CEO- Anup Bagchi
Source: livemint
37. National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has emerged as the largest derivative exchange
of world in 2023 by the number of contracts traded based on statistics published by
Futures Industry Association (FIA), a derivatives trade body.
e Key points-
o It has been ranked 3rd in the world in the equity segment by number of trades
(electronic order book).
o Market capitalization of listed companies on NSE has surpassed USD 4 trillion in 2023.
o The number of unique registered investors on the exchange has also crossed the 8.5
crore mark by the end of 2023
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Stock Exchange

of India-
e MD &CEO- Ashishkumar Chauhan
Source: livemint
38. Unity Small Finance Bank Limited (Unity Bank) has collaborated with Uncia Technologies
Private Limited for its advance Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform 'Uncia Chain’.
e Objective-
° To facilitate efficient processing and accurate daily lending transactions.
e More about Uncia Chain-
77
January 2024
eo Uncia Chain platform unites buyer, seller and lender under one umbrella.
o It offers a complete product suite for the physical supply chain industry, addressing all
business aspects, especially financing needs.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Unity Small Finance Bank-
¢ Founded by- Centrum Financial Services and BharatPe
e¢ Headquarters- Mumbai
e Established- 2021
Source: BWI
39. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has invested 486 Crore in Sustainable
Energy Infra Trust (SEIT) for project 'India: Project Meridian’ of AlIB.
e Objective-
o To support the development of InviTs as an infrastructure asset class in India.
e key points-
© InviT (Sustainable Energy Infra Trust or SEIT), has eight operating solar power
generation assets of 1.54 gigawatt-peak total capacity located nationwide in India.
o It is co-sponsored by Mahindra Susten Private Limited and Ontario Teachers’ Pension

Plan.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank-
e Itis a multilateral development bank and international financial institution that

aims to collectively improve economic and social outcomes in Asia.
It is the world's second largest multilateral development institution.
Headquarters- Beijing
Established- 2016
President- Jin Liqun
January 2024
Source: AIIB
40. Yes Bank has became the 1st Indian bank to execute an export finance transaction on the
International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC Limited (RXIL).
e Objectives-
© To attract global capital to support development of India.
© To create a globally competitive financial hub offering a comprehensive range of

international financial services at both regional and global levels.
e key points-
eo A strategic partnership streamlines credit arrangements for exporters and importers

worldwide.
o It will offer competitive trade financing services, including Factoring and Forfaiting,
through a digital platform for quick and efficient transactions.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is International Trade Financing Services Platform?
e Itis an electronic platform for facilitating the trade finance requirements of

exporters and importers by providing access to multiple financiers.
Source: ET
41. SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch has launched two multi-lingual initiatives of Central
Depository Services Ltd. (CDSL).
e Objective-
o To increase the inclusivity and accessibility in the capital market.
e Two initiatives-
i. CDSL has introduced an upgrade in investor CAS through the ‘Apka CAS - Apki
Zubaani’ initiative to enable investors to receive their statements in their preferred
language.
e Itis accessible in 23 Indian languages, and provides investors with a unified

overview of their securities held in a demat account, presented in their preferred
January 2024 79
language.
ii. Another initiative is the unique multilingual chatbot on CDSL website, ‘CDSL Buddy
Sahayta 24*7’.
e It has been launched to simplify investors’ processes.
Other initiatives-
i. SEBI Chairperson has also unveiled a thought leadership report titled ‘Reimagine Digital
Trust in Capital Markets’.
e Itis prepared in collaboration with knowledge partners KPMG.
ii. CDSL has also announced completion of ‘Neev' - a 25-city pan-India financial literacy
campaign, covering the armed forces and rural areas, with the goal to deepen market
awareness among the masses.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SEBI-
e Itis the regulatory body for securities and commodity market in India under the
administrative domain of Ministry of Finance within the Government of India.
e Established- April 12, 1988
e Chairperson- Madhabi Puri Buch
About CDSL-
e Itis the largest securities depository in India, measured by the number of demat
accounts opened.
e Established- 1999
e MD &CEO- Nehal Vora
January 2024 80
42. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has announced the launch of a non-linked, non-
participating, individual savings deferred annuity plan ‘Jeevan Dhara-ll’.
e More about Jeevan Dhara-ll -
o Scheme offers guaranteed annuity from inception, and 11 annuity options are available
to prospective policyholders.
o Plan is available for individual aged 20 years to 80 years.
© It provides life cover during the deferment period and offers a higher annuity rate at
higher ages.
o A loan facility would be available during or after the deferment period under annuity
options with the return of premium/purchase price
Knowledge Nuggets
About LIC-
e Established- 1956
e Chairperson- Siddhartha Mohanty
43. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has collaborated with IIM Ahmedabad to
develop ‘Vision 2049’.
e Objective-
°o To position itself as a globally recognised leader in the accounting profession.
e More about ICAI Vision 2049-
© It will empower chartered accountants as catalysts for economic progress,
© It will provide a dynamic environment that seamlessly integrates with fundamental

objectives of India.
o ICAI will celebrate its 100th year of existence in the year 2049.
January 2024
44. SBI Life Insurance has recently launched two products-— ‘SBI Life - Saral Swadhan
Supreme’ and ‘SBI Life - Smart Swadhan Supreme’ to provide a life cover along with
benefit of the return of premiums at maturity.
e Objective-
o To fulfill customer's financial objectives and empower customers by catering to the

growing awareness of the essential link between insurance and financial well-being.
e Key points-
o Upon maturity, policyholders are entitled to receive 100% of the total premiums (total of
all the premiums received, excluding any extra premium, any rider premiums, and taxes.
© Both these policies offer a minimum sum assured of Rs. 25 lakhs, which is capped at
Rs. 50 lakhs SBI Life - Saral Swadhan Supreme.
o Tax Benefits: As per the prevailing norms under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Source: livemint
45. Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. has launched Smart Wealth Annuity Guaranteed
Pension Plan (SWAG Pension Plan).
e Key points-
°o Itis a Non-Linked, Non-Participating Individual/Group General Annuity Savings Plan.
© Itis in line with new-age consumers’ needs for solutions tailored to their specific needs.
o Key features of SWAG Pension Plan-
» Increasing annuity up to 6% per annum ensuring readiness for the rising inflation
» Early Return of Premium on attaining milestone age which varies from 70 years to
85 years
Knowledge Nuggets
About Max Life Insurance Company Ltd-
e Itis a 80:20 joint venture between Max Financial Services and Axis Bank.
e CEO- Prashant Tripathy
Source: livemint
January 2024 82
46. Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has released a circular summarizing the
framework for offer for sale (OFS) of shares to employees through stock exchanges such
as BSE and NSE.
e Key provisions of circular-
°o Bidding will be allowed during trading hours on T+1 day only
© Employees will place bids only at cut-off price of T+1 day
© Maximum bid amount will be %5 lakh
o Each employee is eligible for allotment of equity shares up to %2 lakh
Knowledge Nuggets
What is offer for sale (OFS)?

e Offer for sale (OFS) is a simpler method of share sale through the exchange
platform for listed companies.
e It was first introduced by SEBI in 2012.
Source: livemint
47. General Insurance Council, in consultation with all general and health insurance
companies has launched the 'Cashless Everywhere’ initiative.
e Key points-
eo ‘'Cashless Everywhere’ initiative is a significant collaboration within the health insurance

industry.
© Policyholders can receive treatment at any hospital of their choice even if the hospital
is not part of the insurance company's network.
o Under the cashless facility, policyholders are not required to pay for treatment out of
pocket in the event of hospitalisation, subject to admissibility of the claim.
© To use the 'cashless everywhere' service, customers need to inform their insurance
company 48 hours before planned treatments and within 48 hours after emergency
admissions.
January 2024 83
Knowledge Nuggets
About General Insurance Council (GI Council)-
¢ Itis a representative organization for general insurers, including Stand-alone

Health Insurers, Specialized Insurers, Reinsurers, Foreign Reinsurer Branches
(FRBs), and Lloyd's India.
e Itis registered with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India
(IRDAI).
48. Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the merger of Fincare Small
Finance Bank Limited (Fincare) and AU Small Finance Bank Limited (AU).
Knowledge Nuggets
About Competition Commission of India
e« Competition Commission of India is the chief national competition regulator in

India.
e Itis a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is responsible for
enforcing the Competition Act, 2002
e Objective-
© To promote competition and prevent activities that have an appreciable

adverse effect on competition in India.
¢ Established- 2003
e Chairperson- Ravneet Kaur
Source: PIB
49. 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), also known as "Davos Summit
2024" has been held at Swiss Alpine School, Davos in Switzerland from 15th to 19th
January 2024.
e Key points-
° Theme- Rebuilding Trust
°o Key Focus Areas-
» Achieving security and cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions
» Creating growth and jobs for a New Era
« Artificial Intelligence (Al) as a driving force for the economy and society
» ALong-Term strategy for Climate Nature, and Energy
Health industry leaders discussed the importance of preplanning for the outbreak of a
hypothetical "Disease X"
« What is Disease X?
e Disease X is a mysterious disease as cause of disease is not known yet. It is

considered as a serious microbial threat similar to COVID-19.
e WHO added Disease X in priority list of pathogens in 2017 along with Severe
Acute Respiratory Syndrome(SARS) and Ebola virus.
India is at top position in terms of trust in businesses and Non-Government

Organisations(NGOs) as per "Edelman Trust Barometer 2024".
January 2024 85
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Davos Summit?
e World Economic Forum (WEF) holds its Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
Who initiated the World Economic Forum?
e German professor Klaus Schwab founded the WEF in 1971, originally known as
the European Management Forum.
e He introduced the concept of “stakeholder capitalism”.
o What is stakeholder capitalism?
» According to Schwab, “It is a form of capitalism in which companies do

not only optimize short-term profits for shareholders, but seek long term
value creation, by taking into account the needs of all their stakeholders,
and society at large.
What is Edelman Trust Barometer 2024?
e The 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a rift between innovation and society
that has become the new factor causing further polarization.
Source: WEF, Indian Express
30. Canara HSBC Life Insurance has introduced iSelect Guaranteed Future Plus, a
comprehensive plan designed to deliver life insurance and assured benefits, ensuring the
safeguarding of goals and providing peace of mind.
e Key point-
° Policy offers four different plans namely Endowment Option, Regular Income Option,
Early Income Option and Long Term Income with Return of Premium Option.
Source: livemint
51. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the timeline for complying
with rumour verification norms to June 1, 2024.
e Key points-
o Earlier deadline- February 1, 2024.
January 2024 86
° Top 100 listed companies will now have to confirm, deny, or verify reports in the media
from June 1.
© Timeline for the top 250 listed companies has been moved to December 2024.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SEBI-
52. Zomato Payment Pvt Ltd (ZPPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zomato Limited, has
received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as an online payment
aggregator.
e Key points-
© Authorisation is effective from January 24 2024.
53. World Bank (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, IBRD) has
introduced innovative 7-year USD 100 million plastic waste reduction-linked bond to
tackle plastic pollution.
e Objectives-
© To reduce and recycle plastic waste in vulnerable communities and address the global
challenge of plastic leaking into nature and oceans.
© To improve the local pollution and air quality, reduce associated health impacts, and
create job in marginalized communities.
e Key features of the Bond-
°o Bond is 100% principal protected.
37
January 2024
© Investors in the bond will forego a portion of ordinary coupon payments, instead they
receive equivalent amount through hedge transactions.
e Investors will receive annual coupons composed of a fixed amount and payments
linked to the sale of a portion of plastic and carbon credits produced by the projects.
Knowledge Nuggets
About World Bank-
e It is an international financial institution which provides loans and grants to the

capital projects.

e Headquarters-Washington DC, USA
e Established-1944
e President-Ajay Banga
World Bank Group

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34. Bank of Baroda’s wholly-owned subsidiary for cards, ‘BOB Financial Solutions Limited’,
has been rebranded as ‘BOBCARD Limited’.
January 2024 88
¢ More about BOBCARD Limited-
© Tagline for - Credit Reimagined
o New logo - Baroda Sun
© It is anon-banking Financial Company(NBFC) established in 1994.
55. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) to increase its stake in HDFC Bank.
e Key points-
o RBIhas allowed LIC to acquire an additional 4.8% stake in HDFC Bank, raising its total
stake to 9.99% by January 24, 2025.
o LIC has already owned a 5.19% stake in HDFC Bank as of December 2023.
Source: ET
Reports and Indices

1. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh have collectively contributed nearly 40% of
all registered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India, as per a CBRE-
CREDAI report.
« Key points-
eo Maharashtra leads with highest number of MSMEs, followed by Tamil Nadu and Uttar
Pradesh respectively.
o Table for top MSMEs contributors-
Rank State Number of MSMEs % Share
1 Maharashtra 38.09 lakh 17.2
2 Tamil Nadu 22.32 lakh 10
3 Uttar Pradesh 20.95 lakh 9.4
eo According to the official data from the Ministry of MSME, 2.21 crore MSMEs are
registered (excluding registrations through the Udyam Assist Portal).
o Rajasthan with 16 lakh and Gujarat with 15.96 lakh MSMEs were 4th and Sth top
destinations for registered units in the country.
o Sector wise overview-
January 202
» Report highlighted that the construction sector, contributing approximately 8% to
the GDP, is a strategic opportunity for Indian MSMEs.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Udyam Portal-
e It's an online system for registering MSMEs, launched by the Union MSME
ministry.
e launched- 1st July, 2020.
Source: Financial Express
. Income inequality has declined in India during FY14-FY22 as per the report of Economic
Research Department of the State Bank of India.
Reason for decline-
° Inequality has declined due to higher tax base and a shift in taxpayers from lower
income to higher income tax bracket.
Key observations of the report-
o Gini coefficient (one of the most widely used measures of income inequality) of
taxable income has declined significantly from 0.472 to 0.402 during FY14-FY22.
About 36.3% of taxpayers have moved from lower income to higher income tax
bracket resulting in 21.3% additional income.
Top 2.5% of taxpayers’ contribution in income declined from 2.81% in FY14 to 2.28% in
FY 21.
Total number of persons filing income tax increased to 7.4 crore in assessment year 23
from 7 crore in assessment year 22.
Female tax filers are around 15% of the individual tax filers with certain states such as
Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab and West Bengal having highest share.
Report stated that 47% of the population lives below $3.65 per day and only 80% of
the remaining 73.1 crore, that is, 58.5 crore people work in the formal economy.
Growth in ITR filing according to earning-
January 2024
Growth between assessment years (AY) 2013-
ITR Range
14 and AY 2021-22
Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh 295%
Rs 10 lakh and Rs 25 lakh 291%.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is Lorenz curve?
e Lorenz Curve (the actual distribution of income curve), a graphical distribution of

wealth developed by Max Lorenz in 1906, shows the proportion of income
earned by any given percentage of the population.
e Line at the 45° angle shows perfectly equal income distribution, while the other
line shows the actual distribution of income.
100%
earned
share of income
Cumulative
100%
Cumulative share of people from
lowest to highest incomes
What is Gini Coefficient?
e Gini Coefficient measures the degree of income equality in a population.
e Gini Coefficient can vary from O (perfect equality) to 1 (perfect inequality).
e Gini Coefficient of zero means that everyone has the same income, while a
Coefficient of 1 represents a single individual receiving all the income.
January 2024
3. Henley Passport Index 2024 Global Ranking has been released by Henley and Partners.
e Key points-
oO Indian passport has been ranked 80th by providing visa-free or visas on arrival
access to 62 countries.
In the Middle East, UAE has been ranked highest at rank 11.
Low ranking countries on the index are Pakistan (101), Iraq (102), Syria (103) and
Afghanistan (104).
Rankings are based on the analysis of data provided by the International Air Transport
Association (IATA).
¢ Most powerful passports of the World:
Rank Country/ Countries

1
France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Spain
2 Finland, South Korea, Sweden
3 Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands
4 Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom
5 Greece, Malta, Switzerland
80 India
e Rank of neighbours of India:
Rank Country/ Countries
58 Maldives
62 China
87 Bhutan
92 Myanmar
96 Sri Lanka
97 Bangladesh
98 Nepal
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About Henley Passport Index-
e [tis an annual list put together by Henley & Partners, a London-based global
citizenship and residence advisory firm.
e It claims to be the “original ranking of all the world’s passports”.
e The index covers 227 destinations and 199 passports.
4. India has surpassed Taiwan in the MSCI Emerging Markets index, securing the 2nd
position after China.
e Key points-
o Share of India in MSCI Emerging Markets index saw an increase in over eight years
from 7% to 17.1% and is projected to rise further to 20% by early 2024.
o India has witnessed the highest inflows observed in the last 11 years.
© It has made India as an attractive investment option in emerging markets.
Knowledge Nuggets
About MSCI Emerging Markets Index-
e MSCI Emerging Markets Index captures large and mid cap representation across
24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries
e Launched in- 1988
Source: livemint
5. Dun & Bradstreet has introduces the Indian Railway Freight Activity (IRFA) Index in
collaboration with Jupiter Wagons.
e Objective-
eo To provide a comprehensive and data-driven assessment of the dynamics of Indian

Railway freight activity.
January 2024 93
e Key points-
o Itis a quarterly report which comprises two important sub-indices -
« Activity sub-index- It is based on data released by the Indian Railways.
» Experience sub-index- It is derived from a survey of railway freight users for the
current quarter.
o The index value ranges from 0-100, where 50 is the neutral level of railway freight
activity on a year-on-year basis.
Source: prnewswire
6. Bloomberg Index Services has proposed to include Fully Accessible Route (FAR) bonds of
India in the Bloomberg Emerging Market (EM) Local Currency Index from September
2024.
e Key points-
o Indian FAR bonds will be included in the EM Local Currency indices with an initial
weight of 20% of their full market value in September 2024.
o The weight of FAR bonds will be increased in increments of 20% of their full market
value every month over the 5-month period ending in January 2025
e« What are Fully Accessible Route (FAR) bonds?
© Fully Accessible Route (FAR) bonds are those bonds in which foreign investors can buy
without any limits.
Source: livemint
7. International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a report titled "World Employment
and Social Outlook: Trends 2024".
e« Global Unemployment and Social Inequalities:
o Report has predicted an increase in the global unemployment rate to 5.2% in year
2024 as compared to 5.1% in year 2023.
e Growing social inequalities are identified as a significant concern.
« Positive Economic Aspects in 2023:
o Despite the economic slowdown, global growth in 2023 has exceeded expectations.
o Labour markets have showed surprising resilience with strong job growth.
January 2024 94
o Both the unemployment rate and the jobs gap has decreased below pre-pandemic
levels.
e Real Wages and Extreme Poverty:
o Real wages have declined in the majority of G20 countries due to failure in keeping
pace with inflation.
o In 2023, the number of workers in extreme poverty (earning less than $2.15 per day)
has increased globally by about 1 million.
Knowledge Nuggets
About International Labour Organization-
e Itis a United Nations agency whose mandate is to advance social and economic
justice by setting international labour standards.
e It was established as a part of the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War |, to
reflect the belief that universal and lasting peace can be accomplished only if it's
based on social justice.
e Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland
e Established- 1919
e Director General- Gilbert F. Houngbo
Source: The Hindu, ILO
8. Indian economy is expected to surpass USD 4 trillion in the financial year 2024-25 and
reach USD 5 trillion by the financial year 2026-27, according to a report by PHDCCI.
e Key observations-
© Retail inflation is estimated to be around 4.5% on average in 2024.
eo Report has outlined that Indian economy has remained resilient despite global
challenges, showing evidence of strong growth.
© According to report India is on track to attain the status of a developed economy by

2047 under the initiative of 'Viksit Bharat.’
o PHDCCI expects Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut the repo rate by 100 basis points in
a calibrated manner by the end of 2024.
January 2024 95
o Report has stressed the need for careful and adaptable policy actions to mitigate
dangers from the global economy.
eo Report has suggested a focus on the informal sector and ground level reforms to
accelerate economic growth.
Knowledge Nuggets
About PHDCCI-
e PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry acts as a catalyst in the promotion of

industry, trade and entrepreneurship.
e PHD Chamber, through its research-based policy advocacy role, positively

impacts the economic growth and development of the nation.
e Itis one of the Premier Chambers in India to have been accredited with “Diamond
Grade” by NABET(QC\), at national and international level.
e Established- 1905
Source: ET
9. Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) has released a report on 'Engendering Land Ports in
India‘ in New Delhi.
¢ Objective-
© To develop a framework for gender inclusive cross border trade and tourism through
land Ports in the country.
Source: AIR
10. Over 24.8 crore people have moved out of poverty in India in 9 years as per NITI Aayog
Multidimensional Poverty Index.
e Key points-
o Multidimensional poverty in India has declined from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in

2022-23, with about 24.82 crore people moving out of this bracket during this period.
oe National multidimensional poverty measures simultaneous deprivations across 3

equally weighted dimensions of-
« Health,
January 2024 96
» Education, and
» Standard of living
o National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) by Niti Aayog has used the Alkire Foster
methodology to assess the decline in poverty rates.
e State level performance-
o At the State level, Uttar Pradesh has topped the list with 5.94 crore people escaping
poverty followed by Bihar at 3.77 crore and Madhya Pradesh at 2.30 crore.
© Recent National MPI was based on National Family Health Surveys 4 (2015-16) and
National Family Health Surveys 5 (2019-21).
co Percentage reduction in multidimensional poverty (MDP) in 2019-21 since 2015-16:

Bihar, U.P., M.P., Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Assam showed a
reduction of over 13%
Dimension _ Indicator A Household is Considered Deprived If Weight (W)
Any child between the ages of 0 to 59 months, or woman between the ages of
Nutrition 15 to.49 years, or man between the ages of 15 to 54 years -for whom nutritional 1/6
information is available - is found to be undernourished,
Child-Adolescent A child/adolescent under 18 years of age has died in the family in the five-year a9
Mortality period preceding the survey. A
Any woman in the household who has given birth in the 5 years preceding the
Mat I Health survey, has not received at least 4 antenatal care visits for the most recent birth n/12
———— or has not received assistance from trained skilled medical personnel during the am
most recant childbirth.
' Not even one member of the household aged 10 years or older has completed 1/6
Education Years of Schoolin: 9 sixi: years of schooling.
i
da Any y Si school-aged
ag child is not t attending
attend sc hool up to the age at whichwhic he/sh
‘she 1/6
School Attendance would ta Glee B:
Cooking Fuel A household cooks with dung, agricultural crops, shrubs, wood, charcoal or coal. 1/21
pala The household has unimproved or no sanitation facility or it is improved but shared
Sanitation with eholds. 1/21
ee a The household does not have access to improved drinking water or safe drinking
ae water is at least a 30-minute walk from home (as a round trip). a
Electricity The household has no electricity. 1/21
Houels The household has inadequate housing: the floor is made of natural materials, 1/21
ng or the roof or wall are made of rudimentary materials.
The household does not own more than one of these assets: radio, TV, telephone,
Assets computer, animal cart, bicycle, motorbike, or refrigerator, and does not own a car 1/21
or truck.
Bank Account No household member has a bank account or a post office account. 1/21
Source: The Hindu
11. International Energy Agency (IEA) has released "Renewables 2023" report.
January 2024 97
e Key observations-
°o India is expected to add 203 GW of renewable capacity.
o China will account for 56% of renewable energy capacity additions (2,060 gigawatts)
in between 2023-28, and rest of the world will add 1,574 GW.
© China will be followed by European Union and the United States as the next biggest
builders of renewable energy, at 429 GW and 337 GW respectively.
© 11 countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are
expected to boost capacity by a combined 63 GW.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ASEAN-
Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a regional organization which was

established to promote political and social stability.
Established- 1967 ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration)
Members- Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam,

Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Source: ET
12. United States has been ranked as the strongest military of the world in Global
Firepower's 2024 rankings.
e Key points-
°o Ranking evaluates 145 nations on 60 factors, the rankings offer Detailed insights into
military prowess.
co Bhutan is the least powerful country and Pakistan has been ranked 9th on the list.
°o Top 5 Countries-
Rank Country
1 United States
2 Russia
3 China
4 India
5 South Korea
Source: ET
January 2024 99
13. Jio has retained its position as the strongest Indian brand according to the latest report
'Global-500 2024' published by Brand Finance.
e Key points-
© Jio has been placed at the 17th position among the strongest brands of the world with
a Brand Strength Index of 88.9 in the list.
o LIC has been placed at the 23rd place on the list, followed by SBI at 24th rank.
14. CoRover Private Limited (Corover.ai) has launched India's 1st indigenous Generative Al
(GenAl) Large Language Model (LLM) called BharatGPT.
« Key points-
© Itis the only Indian Indigenous GenAl platform available across channels in 14+ Indian
languages.
o About BharatGPT-
« BharatGPT is integrated for voice modality in more than 14 Indian languages and 22
languages for text modality, in partnership with BHASHINI (BHASHa INterface for
India).
Knowledge Nuggets
What is BHASHINI (BHASHa INterface for India)?
e Itis a National Language Translation Mission (NLTM) under the Ministry of

Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
Source: TOI
15. Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2023: Beyond Basics) report has been released
by NGO Pratham.
e About ASER 2023: Beyond Basics-
o Itis anationwide citizen-led household survey that provides a snapshot of the status
of children's schooling and learning in rural India.
January 2024
© It collects information about enrollment in preschool and school for children in the age
group of 3 to 16 and assesses children aged 5 to 16 one-on-one to understand their
foundational reading and arithmetic abilities.
o First implemented in 2005, the 'basic’ ASER survey was conducted annually until
2014 and switched to an alternate-year cycle in 2016.
e Objective-
o 2023 survey has focused specifically on the ability to apply reading and math skills to
everyday situations, and aspirations of 14-to-18-year-old children in rural India.
e ASER 2023: Beyond Basics has explored following domains-
© Activity: What activities are India’s youth currently engaged in?
© Ability: Do they have basic and applied reading and math abilities?
o Digital awareness and skills: Do they have access to smartphones? What do they use
smartphones for, and can they do simple tasks on their smartphones?
o Aspirations: What do they aspire to become? Who are their role models?
e Key Findings of the Report-
°o Activity-
« Increased Enrollment: Overall, 86.8% of 14-18-year-olds are enrolled in an

educational institution.
« Vocational Training: Youth at the college level are the most likely to be taking
vocational training (16.2%).
© Ability-
« Foundational Skills: About 25% of this age group (14-18) still cannot read a Std Il
level text fluently in their regional language.
» Everyday Calculations: Nearly 85% of surveyed youth can measure length using a
scale when the starting point is 0 cm.
« Financial Calculations: Of the youth who can do subtraction or more, over 60% are
able to do the budget management task, about 37% can apply a discount, but only
about 10% can calculate repayment.
oe Digital Awareness and Skills-
« Digital Access: Close to 90% of all youth have a smartphone in the household and
know how to use it.
» Communication and Online Safety: Of all youth who used social media, only about
half are familiar with the online safety settings that were included in the survey.
January 2024 101

» Digital Tasks: 70% of youth can browse the internet to find the answer to a
question and about two-thirds can set an alarm for a specific time.
Source: ASER
GDP Forecast
1. India Ratings has raised GDP growth forecast of India for 2023-24 (FY24) to 6.7% from
6.2%.
e Key points-
o Revision in growth rate is attributed to higher-than-expected growth during the

September quarter and sustained government expenditure.
o Economy of India has demonstrated a robust growth, with a 7.6% expansion in the July-
September quarter.
o Export-
» Due to uncertain external demand, merchandise exports are expected to decline by

9.3% Year-on-Year in FY24, and goods imports are expected to fall by 7.9% Year-
on-Year.
o Trade deficit-
» Trade deficit is estimated to be $260.7 billion (7.3% of GDP), but sustained

remittances and software exports are expected to provide relief to the current
account.
e GDP projection by other organisations for FY24-
Organisation GDP growth rate
Reserve Bank of India 7%
International Monetary Fund 6.3%
Source: livemint
2. Economy of India is projected to grow at 7.3% in the ongoing financial year, as per the
initial advance estimate report released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
e Key observations-
o Nominal growth projection for FY24 is 8.9%, a significant deceleration from the 16.1%
recorded in the previous financial year (FY23).
o Government has anticipated a year-on-year Gross Value Added (GVA) growth of 6.9%
for fiscal year 2024, slightly lower than the 7% recorded in fiscal year 2023.
January 2024 102

°e Positive economic indicators, including the strong GDP figure for the September
quarter, led several private economists to revise their annual estimates upward.
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Statistical Office-
e It acts as the nodal agency under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation for planned development of the statistical system in the country.
e It lays down and maintains norms and standards in the field of statistics
e It consists Central Statistical Office (CSO), the Computer center and the National
Sample Survey Office (NSSO).
Source: livemint
3. World Bank has kept GDP growth of India in FY25 (2024-2025) estimate unchanged at
6.4% in its biannual ‘Global Economic Prospects’ report.
e Growth projection for India-
o Estimated growth in FY24 (2023-24)- 6.3%
o Estimated growth in FY26 (2025-26)- 6.5%

oe Projection of 6.4% growth for FY25 is based on strong domestic demand, increased
public infrastructure spending, and robust private-sector credit growth.
eo Growth of India is driven by robust public investment and vibrant services activity.
e Global Economic Outlook-
oc Global economy is expected to slow for a 3rd consecutive year in 2024.
January 2024 103

Knowledge Nuggets
About World Bank-
e [tis an international financial institution which provides loans and grants to the
capital projects.

e Headquarters- Washington DC, USA
e Established- 1944
e¢ President- Ajay Banga
4. UBS Securities India Private Limited has reduced the growth of the Indian economy for
the financial year 2024-25 (FY25) to 6.2% from 6.3%.
e Key points-
o Gross domestic product (GDP) of India is projected to reach USD 3.9 trillion in FY25, up
from USD 3.57 trillion in FY24.
© Consumption growth is expected to stabilize at 4.7% in FY25, compared to 4.5% in

FY24.
Source: ET
Defence News
1. India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) have commenced joint military exercise ‘Desert
Cyclone’ in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
e Objectives-
o TO improve interoperability in Sub-conventional Operations including Fighting in Built-

Up Area (FIBUA) in desert/ semi desert terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations
Charter on Peace Keeping Operations.
o To improve cooperation and interoperability between both the sides during Peace
Keeping Operations.
January 2024 104

e Key points-
o Exercise is scheduled to take place from 2nd to 15th January 2024.
o Participating Forces-
» UAE contingent is represented by troops from the Zayed First Brigade.
» Indian Army contingent comprising 45 personnel is being represented by

Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
Source: Pl
2. Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) has launched 'Ugram’ assault
rifle for Indian Army.
e Key points-
o It was developed at the Armament Research and Development Establishments (ARDE),

Pune-based laboratory of DRDO.
e Itis designed to meet the Indian Army's 'GSQR' (General Staff Qualitative Requirement)
of a rifle weighing less than 4 kg.
Knowledge Nuggets
About DRDO-
e Itis the main research & development agency under the Ministry of Defence.
e Established- 1958
¢ Chairman- Samir V Kamat
3. Indian Navy's (IN) P81 aircraft has participated in the ongoing 4th edition of the anti-
submarine warfare (ASW) ‘Exercise Sea Dragon 24' from January 10th to January 22nd,
2024 at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, United States of America (USA).
e Objective-
© To achieve high levels of synergy and coordination between friendly navies, which is
based on their shared values and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo Pacific.
January 2024 105

e About Exercise Sea Dragon 24-
© Participants- Six countries that are participating in the exercise are India, USA,
Australia, Japan, Canada, and the Republic of Korea (South Korea).
o Itis 4th edition of the coordinated multi-lateral ASW exercise for Long Range MR ASW
aircraft conducted by US Navy.
o It would stress on coordinated anti-submarine warfare amongst the participating

countries.
Source: indiannavy.nic.in
4. Indian Navy has received Drishti 10 Starliner (also known as Elbit Hermes 900), 1st
indigenously manufactured Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial
Vehicle (UAV).
e About Drishti 10 Starliner-
© Manufactured by- Adani Defence and Aerospace (ADA)
© It is produced by Adani Group in partnership with Elbit Systems of Israel, upto 70% of
the drone has been manufactured indigenously.
o Itis an advanced ISR platform with 36 hours endurance, 450 kgs payload capacity.
o It the only all-weather military platform with STANAG 4671 certification, and clear to fly
in both segregated and unsegregated airspace.
5. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted a successful

flight-test of the New Generation AKASH (AKASH-NG) missile from the Integrated Test
Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.
e Key points-
eo Missile system has underwent a successful flight-test against a high-speed unmanned

aerial target at very low altitude.
o Flight-test has validated the functioning of the entire weapon system, including the
missile with an indigenously developed Radio Frequency Seeker, Launcher, Multi-
Function Radar, and Command, Control & Communication system.
o Performance of the system has been verified through data captured by various Radars,
Telemetry, and Electro Optical Tracking Systems deployed by ITR, Chandipur.
e About AKASH-NG-
January 2024 106

o Itis a state-of-the-art missile system designed to intercept high-speed, agile aerial
threats.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Akash Missile-
e Itis a medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile system developed by the

Defence Research and Development Organisation and produced by Bharat
Dynamics Limited.
e Produced- 2009
Source: Pl
6. Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Japan Coast Guard (JCG) have conducted a 5-day annual
joint exercise, 'Sahyog Kaijin, off the coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
e Key points-
o Exercise has been held as per the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed between
India and Japan in 2006, promoting interactions between the 2 Coast Guard
organisations.
o MoC also includes high-level visits, annual joint exercises, training exchanges, and
participation in workshops and seminars.
© 5-day training and exercise covers important aspects of chemical pollution at sea, and
safety equipment including hands-on practical training on the response equipment.
°o Focus areas- chemical pollution response training, search and rescue and maritime law
enforcement.
Source: ET
7. Indian Army has indigenously developed an end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem called
SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) to enhance national defense capabilities.
e Key points-
o It operates on 5G technology with multi layer encryption.
o It has been developed in close collaboration with national centres of excellence from
academia and industry.
January 2024
Source: ET
8. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal to launch a Group (Term)
Insurance Scheme for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs) engaged by Border Roads
Organisation/General Reserve Engineer Force for the ongoing project works.
e Scheme will provide the insured value of Rs 10 lakh as an insurance in any kind of death to
CPLs family/Next of Kin.
Source: PIB
9. Defence Research & Development Organisation has started development trials of

indigenous light tank ‘Zorawar'.
e Tank has been named Zorawar, after the 19th-century general who conquered Ladakh and
Baltistan for his Dogra overlords.
10. 225T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug named Bhishm has been launched by Commodore S.
Sreekumar, Warship Production Superintendent (Kolkata), at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd
(M/s TRSL) in Kolkata.
e Tug acts as a representative of the "Make in India" initiative of the Government of India.
Source: PIB
11. Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy have conducted a maiden bilateral exercise, named 'Ex-
Ayutthaya’.
e Key points-
° 'Ex- Ayutthaya’ means 'The Invincible One' or 'Undefeatable’
O° ‘Ex-Ayutthaya', symbolises the significance of ‘Ayodhya’ in India and Ayutthaya in

Thailand, which holds historic legacies and has rich cultural ties.
Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56 have participated in the inaugural edition of the
exercise.
Royal Thai Navy side was represented by His Thai Majesty's Ship (HTMS) Prachuap
Khiri Khan.
36th edition of the India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was also
conducted along with the maiden bilateral exercise.
January 2024 108

Source: ET
12. 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has commenced
at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
e Objective-
ec To share experiences and best practices in Counter-Terrorism and Special Forces

Operations in urban and mountainous areas under Chapter VII of the United Nations
Charter.
o Participants-
» Indian Army contingent -20 personnel from The Parachute Regiment (Special
Forces).
» Kyrgyzstan contingent- 20 personnel from Scorpion Brigade.
e About Exercise Khanjar:
o Itis an annual exercise held alternatively in India and Kyrgyzstan.
© ‘1st edition of Ex Khanjar was held in 2011 in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh.
© 10th edition of Exercise (Ex Khanjar 2023) was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan from 6th to
18th March 2023.
Source: PIB
13. Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel has reached Egypt to take part in the 2nd
edition of India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise CYCLONE.
e Objective-
o Introduce both parties to each other's procedures for Special Operations in desert or
semi-desert terrain, following Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
e More about Exercise CYCLONE-
o WVenue- Anshas, Egypt
© 1st edition of the exercise was conducted last year in India.
o Participating units-
« Indian contingent- Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
« Egyptian contingent- Egyptian Commando Squadron and Egyptian Airborne Platoon
Source: PIB
January 2024 109

14. Indian Air Force (IAF) has conducted Exercise Desert Knight along with French Air and
Space Force (FASF) and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force.
e Objective-
© To improve synergy and interoperability between the three air forces.
Source: PIB
15. ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 19 (Yard 129)’, 5th Barge of 11 x
ACTCM Barge Project has been launched.
e Built by- MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd
Source: PIB
16. Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth 1,070 crore with Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders for the acquisition of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) to boost the capabilities of
the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
e Objective-
© To boost ICG's capability and reinforces the increased focus of the government
towards maritime security.
e More about Fast Patrol Vessels-
°o ICG's will be equipped with multipurpose drones and wirelessly controlled remote
water rescue craft lifebuoy and Al capability etc.
° ICG's will be indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by Mazagon Dock

Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL).
Source: livemint
17. Indian Army has opened the ‘India Selfie Point' near the Line of Control in Uri sector of
Jammu and Kashmir.
¢ More about India Selfie Point-
© The 'India Selfie Point! has been gifted by acclaimed artist Rouble Nagi.
o Inaugurated by- Dagger Division of Indian Army
o Itis located along the National Highway 44 (NH 44), which is the longest national
highway in India and connects Srinagar (J&K) to Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu).
Source: ET
January 2024 110

18. Inaugural edition of India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ has
commenced at Mahajan, Rajasthan.
e Objectives-
© To train troops of both sides for Joint Operations in Semi Desert terrain under Chapter
VII of the United Nations Charter.
° To achieve shared security objectives, improve the level of defence cooperation and
strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
¢ Participation-
o Indian Army contingent- 45 personnel from Battalion from the Brigade of the Guards
(Mechanised Infantry)
© Saudi Arabian contingent- 45 personnel from Royal Saudi Land Forces
Source: PIB
Science and Tech

1. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched its first polarimetry mission X-
ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat).
e Key points about XPoSat-
© X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) is India’s maiden mission dedicated to analysing the
polarisation of X-rays emanating from bright celestial sources in the medium frequency
band.
o Itis the world's second satellite-based mission dedicated to making X-ray polarimetry
measurements.
o It carries two payloads, including Indian X-ray Polarimeter (POLIX) and X-ray
Spectroscopy and Timing (XSPECT).
o Payloads have been built by Raman Research Institute and UR Rao Satellite Centre,
both located in Bengaluru.
eo It has an estimated mission life of about five years during which XPoSat will observe
sources that emit polarised X-rays.
o This mission will help us broaden our understanding of the space.
e What is the polarisation of X-rays?
o X-rays comprise electric and magnetic waves that are constantly in motion, and being
sinusoidal waves, they do not follow a patterned direction of motion.
January 2024 111

o Whereas, a polarised X-ray is both organised and has two waves vibrating in the same
direction.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISRO-
e Indian Space Research Organisation is the national space agency of India.
e Headquarters- Bengaluru
e Established- 1969
e Chairman- S Somanath
2. SpaceX has launched its first ‘direct-to-cell’ Starlink satellite.
¢ What is direct-to-cell satellite?
eo These satellites allow users to directly connect their cell phones to mobile networks
without a Starlink terminal.
o Essentially the Direct-to-Cell Starlink satellites have advanced modems that act as cell
phone towers in space.
o This could potentially be used to eliminate cell phone service dead zones on the
ground.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SpacexX-
e Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) is a versatile space company

involved in various aspects of the space industry.
e Itis engaged in spacecraft manufacturing, launch services, satellite

communications, and even serves as a defense contractor.
e Headquarters-California, USA
e Established- 2002
January 2024 112

3. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully tested a fuel cell that uses
hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity and releases heat and water as byproducts.
e More about fuel cell-
o Designed by- Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)

o Importance- These cells are ideal for human space missions because the heat and
water generated as byproducts are also essential, meaning a single system can meet
multiple requirements of the mission.
o It was sent to space on the fourth stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
and it generated 180W power during the short duration test.
© Test has successfully demonstrated another Silicon-based cell developed by VSSC.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISRO-
e Established- 1969
e Chairman- S Somanath
4. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched 5 payloads to soft
land on the surface of Moon aboard Peregrine Mission One (PM1).
e Objective-
° To identify water molecules on the Moon, measure radiation and gases around the
lander, and assess the lunar exosphere.
e Key points-
o This is the first lunar mission of NASA after the launch of Apollo 17 in 1972.
o Mission was launched through United Launch Alliance (ULA)'s Vulcan Centaur Launch
Vehicle (VC2S) from Cape Canaveral, Florida, United States of America (USA).
January 2024 113

o PM1is the first commercial mission of Astrobotic Technology to land on another
planetary body.
© Mission is said to be operated for about 10 Earth days.
© Components of mission-
» consists of a Peregrine Lunar Lander, which carries scientific instruments and other
payloads to the Moon's surface.
» Lunar Lander will land at Sinus Viscositatis (also known as the Bay of Stickiness).
Source: livemint
5. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has successfully tested the 3-
dimensionally (3-D) printed innovative propulsion system called "Rotating Detonation
Rocket Engine (RDRE)" at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, the United
States.
e Objective-
eo To change the structure of future propulsion systems which helps in NASA's Moon to
Mars vision.
e key points-
o RDRE is NASA's first engine which generates thrust using a supersonic combustion
phenomenon known as a detonation.
o Engine can power both human landers and interplanetary vehicles.
Knowledge Nuggets
About NASA-
e Itis an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the
civil space program, aeronautics research, and space research.
e Headquarters- Washington D.C., USA
6. SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket has launched Axiom Space's Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) to the
International Space Station (ISS).
e Key points-
January 2024 114

© It has been launched from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at National Aeronautics and
Space Administration (NASA)'s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
o Ax-3 is carrying Axiom Space's first all-European crew, which includes first astronaut
of Turkey.
Source: space.com
7. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has developed a 2nd generation ‘Distress
Alert Transmitter (DAT), incorporating advanced satellite communication and navigation
capabilities.
e Objectives-
© To allow fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from fishing boats and get
acknowledgement in real time.
o To send advance alert messages whenever there are events of bad weather, cyclone,
tsunami or any other emergencies.
e More about Distress Alert Transmitter-
o It has been operational since 2010 and more than 20,000 of them are currently in use.
°o Itis used for sending messages through a communication satellite and received at a
central control station where the alert signals are decoded for the identity and location
of the fishing boat.
Source: ET
8. Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), has successfully landed Smart Lander for
Investigating Moon (SLIM) on surface of moon.
e Japan has became the 5th nation to soft land on lunar surface after the United States of
America (USA), Russia, China, and India.
Source: BT
9. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has launched Sorayya satellite using a
three-stage solid-fuel Qaem 100 satellite carrier.
e |tis a telecommunication satellite.
Source: Ul
January 2024 115

10. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Lockheed Martin have
unveiled ‘X-59 quiet Supersonic Jet’, a one-of-a-kind experimental aircraft known as the
‘Son of Concorde’.
e Objective-
° To collect data that could revolutionize air travel, paving the way for a new generation
of commercial aircraft that can travel faster than the speed of sound.
e Key points-
o X-59 is at the center of NASA's Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) mission
° aims to demonstrate the ability to fly supersonic while generating a gentle "sonic
thump" without making loud sonic booms.
© 59 is expected to fly at speeds of 925 miles per hour (mph) or 1,489 kilometer/h(kmph),
or 1.4 times the speed of sound (about 768 miles per hour (1,236 kmph) at sea level).
Source: NASA
Agriculture and Rural Development

1. Union Minister Piyush Goyal has inaugurated the ‘Indus Food 2024' exhibition to
showcase vibrant and diverse food ecosystem of India in India Exposition Mart, Greater
Noida.
e Major facts related to export of processed food-
o Processed food exports have grown 150% over the last nine years.
© Agricultural exports of India stood at an aggregate of about US$ 53 Billion.
Source: PIB
2. Swedish researchers have developed electronic soil (eSoil) to enhance plant growth.
e Key points-
oe Developed by-
» Electronic Plants group at the Laboratory of Organic Electronics at Linképing

University led by associate professor Eleni Stavrinidou.
eo Newly developed ‘eSoil’ has stimulated root systems which has helped barley seedlings
grow an average of 50% more in a new study.
o Low-power bioelectronic scaffolding can be used for soilless cultivation methods like
hydroponics.
January 2024 116

o Whatis bioelectronic scaffolding ?
© Bioelectronic scaffolding typically refers to the use of electronic devices or materials to

support and influence the growth of biological tissues, such as in the field of tissue
engineering.
Knowledge Nuggets
What is hydroponics?
e Hydroponics refers to the technique of growing plants without soil using a water-
based nutrient solution, an aggregate substrate, or growing media like coconut
coir or perlite.
e It uses closed systems that recirculate water to make sure each seedling gets
exactly the nutrients it needs.
e It means that very little water is needed and that all nutrients remain within the
system.
Awards
1. Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has won Pubity Athlete Of The Year 2023 award.
e He has defeated Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi 78-22 in the final vote count.
Source: India Today
2. Prof. B.R. Kamboj has been honoured with the prestigious M.S. Swaminathan Award.
e Key points-
ce He is awarded for his contributions as a scientist and extension specialist in the field of
agronomy.
o Award ceremony has took place at the International Conference on 'One Health One
World,’ held at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University at Gwalior in Madhya
Pradesh.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About M.S. Swaminathan Award-
e Itis instituted by Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TASS) in 2004.
e Objective -
° To recognize lifetime contributions of eminent persons who have made global

impact in the field of agriculture, including food security and sustainability of
agriculture in India.
Source: AIR, TAAS
3. Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has announced ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar'
2023.
e More about Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar-
© Itis given to corporate entities (both in private and public sector), Sports Control
Boards, NGOs, including sports bodies at the State and National level, who have played
a visible role in the area of sports promotion and development.
o Awardees will receive their awards from the President of India at a specially organized
function at Rashtrapati Bhavan on O9th January, 2024.
o List of Awardees for 2023-
Entity awarded for Rashtriya Khel Protsahan

Categor
gery Puruskar 2023
Identification and nurturing of budding / young

Jain Deemed to be University, Bengaluru
talent
Encouragement to sports through Corporate

. vas Odisha Mining Corporate Limited
Social Responsibility
January 2024
co
Knowledge Nuggets
Six core awards which constitute India's National Sports Awards are-
1. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award or simply the Khel Ratna
Arjuna Award
Dronacharya Award
&
Major Dhyan Chand Award

-
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy (MAKA Trophy)

7
Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar

oo
Source: Pl
4. Former US President Barack Obama has won 75th creative arts emmy awards under
Outstanding Narrator category.
e Key point-
o He has won award for his Netflix documentary series Working: What We Do All Day
Source: TIME
5. 81st edition of Golden Globe Awards (2024) has been held on 8th January, 2024 at the
Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, United States of America (U.S.A.).
e Awards in different categories-
Category Winner
Best Motion Picture- Drama Oppenheimer
Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy Poor Things
Best Motion Picture-Non English Language Anatomy of a Fall(France)
Best Performance by a Male Actor in a

Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer)
Motion Picture - Drama
Best Performance by a Female Actor in

Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon)
a Motion Picture - Drama
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About Golden Globe Awards-
¢ Golden Globe Awards are accolades awarded for excellence in both American
and international film and television.
e It is an annual award ceremony held since 1944 to honor artists and professionals
and their work.
Source: Guardian
. Bengali writer Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay has been awarded 2023 Kuvempu Award.
o
He will receive a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, a silver medal, and a citation.
Winner for 2022- Imayam
About Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar
© |tis a national annual literary award that recognises writers who have made significant
contributions to any Indian language.
Source: Srl
7. President Droupadi Murmu has honoured the 4 winners of Tenzing Norgay National
Adventure Award (TNNAA) 2022 during the Sports and Adventure Award 2023 event held
in Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.
e Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award honours the achievements of individuals in

adventure sports.
e List of winners-
Winner Sport category State
Ech Kaniswet Land Adventure Uttarakhand
Tulsi Chaitanya Mothukuri Water Adventure Andhra Pradesh
Anshu Kumar Tiwari Air Adventure Bihar
Parveen Singh Life Time Achievement Himachal Pradesh
Source: PIB
8. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has received the award for International Sports
Personality of the Year at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports
Awards ceremony in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
e More about Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards-
oe It was established in 2009, and it is inspired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al

Maktoum’s love of sport.
© It recognises individual achievement in a broad range of sport-related fields.
Knowledge Nuggets
About FIFA-
e Fédération internationale de football association is the international governing

body of association football.
e Headquarters- Zurich, Switzerland
e Established- 1904
¢ President- Gianni Infantino
Source: FIFA
9. President of India, Droupadi Murmu has conferred Swachh Survekshan awards 2023 at
Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
(MOHUA).
e List of Winners in different category-
Rank Winner Category
1 All India clean city (population

Surat and Indore greater than 1 lakh)
iM : All India clean city (population

- Bee Mumbel greater than 1 lakh)
All India clean city (population

1 Sasvad (Maharashtra)
less than 1 lakh)
: All India clean city (population

2 Patan (Chhattisgarh) less than 1 Bk
All India clean city (population

3 Lonavala (Pune, Maharashtra)
less than 1 lakh)
danuary 2024
e List of winners in Fast Moving City category-
1 Panaji (Goa) population greater than 1 lakh
2 Guntur (Andhra Pradesh) population greater than 1 lakh
Nowrozabad (Madhya
population less than 1 lakh
Pradesh)
2 Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh) population less than 1 lakh
¢ List of winners in other category-
1 Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) Cleanest Ganga Town
2 Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) Cleanest Ganga Town
1 Maharashtra Best Performing State
2 Madhya Pradesh Best Performing State
3 Chhattisgarh Best Performing State
Best Safaimitra Surakshit Shehar Chandigarh
Cleanest Cantonment Board Mhow Cantonment Board
Source: PIB
10. National Startup Awards 2023 have been announced on the occasion of National Startup
Day on 16 January.
e Key points-
eo Announced by- Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT),
Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
o Category A States (population more than 1 crore)-
Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu have been awarded as best performer
states.
Top performer states during the year were Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan
and Telangana.
Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have
been awarded the Leader status.
Bihar and Haryana got aspiring leader award.
o Category B States (population less than 1 crore)-
January 2024
« Himachal Pradesh has won best performer award.
» Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya have been awarded top performer award.
» Goa, Manipur, Tripura have won Leader status.
» Andaman and Nicobar Islands has won Aspiring leader award.
Source: ET
11. Lionel Messi from Argentina has won the Best FIFA Men's Player 2023 Award, while
Aitana Bonmati from Spain has won the Best FIFA Women's Player 2023 Award.
e FIFA Special Award for her outstanding career achievements- Marta (Brazil)
e FIFA Puskas Award 2023- Guilherme Madruga(Brazil)
Source: TOI
12. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 has been announced.
e What is Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar?
eo Itis given to children with exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements.
°o Awards are given to children in the age group 5 - 18 years for their excellence in seven
categories namely-
« Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Innovation, Science & Technology, Social
Service and Sports that deserve national recognition.
eo Award includes a medal, certificate and a citation booklet.
e List of awardees-
Sno. Name Category State
Aaditya Vijay Bramhane

1 Maharashtra Bravery
(posthumous)
2 Anushka Pathak Uttar Pradesh Art & Culture
3 Arijeet Banerjee West Bengal Art & Culture
4 Armaan Ubhrani Chhattisgarh Art & Culture
Hetvi Kantibhai :
5 ‘ : Gujarat Art & Culture
Khimsuriya
6 Ishfaq Hamid Jammu & Kashmir Art & Culture
7 Md Hussain Bihar Art & Culture
8 Pendyala Laxmi Priya Telangana Art & Culture
January 2024 123

Sno. Name Category State
9 Suhani Chauhan Delhi Innovation
10 Aryan Singh Rajasthan Science & Technology
11 Avnish Tiwari Madhya Pradesh Social Service
12 Garima Haryana Social Service
13 Jyotsna Aktar Tripura Social Service
14 Saiyam Mazumder Assam Social Service
15 Aaditya Yadav Uttar Pradesh Sports
16 Charvi A Karnataka Sports
7 Jesicca Neyi Saring Arunachal Pradesh Sports
18 Linthoi Chanambam Manipur Sports
19 R Surya Prasad Andhra Pradesh Sports
Source: PIB
13. Late former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur has been posthumously awarded the
Bharat Ratna, highest civilian honour of India.
Key points-
o Heis the 49th recipient of the country's highest civilian award.
o Award recognizes his efforts as a champion for the marginalised and a loyal, reliable,
and hardworking supporter of equality and empowerment.
About Karpoori Thakur-
o He has served as the Chief Minister of Bihar twice, and was known for championing
the cause of the backward classes.
eo He belonged to a very humble background and was born the son of a barber.
co He was Popularly known as Jan Nayak (people's hero)
o He passed away in February 1988.

Knowledge Nuggets
About Bharat Ratna

e Itis the highest civilian award of the India.
e Itis awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest

order in any field of human endeavour.
e The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made by the Prime Minister to the
President of India.
e The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of three ina

particular year.
¢ Bharat Ratna was last conferred to the late president Pranab Mukherjee in 2019.
Source: HT
14. Shubman Gill has won the best men's international cricketer (Polly Umrigar Award) of
2022-23 in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Awards (Naman Awards) 2024
held in Hyderabad, Telangana.
e List of winners-
o Polly Umrigar Award for Best Men's Cricketer of the Year: Shuoman Gill (2022-23)
© Best International Cricketer, Women: Deepti Sharma (2019-20, 2022-23)
eo Best International Debut, Men: Yashasvi Jaiswal (2022-23)

o Best International Debut, Women: Amanjot Kaur (2022-23)
o Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement award: Ravi Shastri, Farokh Engineer (2019-20)
January 2024 125

Knowledge Nuggets
About BCCI-
¢ Board of Control for Cricket in India is the national governing body of Cricket in
India.
e President- Roger Binny
e Established- December 1928
Source: HT
15. Ajit Mishra, an eminent India-born lawyer based in the United Kingdom, has been awarded
with the esteemed ‘Freedom of the City of London’ award.
e Key points-
eo He is awarded for his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and public life.
o Heis founder and chair of the UK India Legal Partnership (UKILP).
Source: nraf
16. Winner's of ‘Republic Day Parade Awards 2024' on the occasion of 75th Republic Day
parade.
e Winners awarded by Panel of Judges-
o Best Tableaux in State Category-
Rank State Theme
: Woman Empowerment in Viksit

1 Odisha
Bharat
> Gursvat Dhordo: A Global Icon of

Gujarat's Border Tourism
Kudavolai System in Ancient

3 Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu — Mother of
Democracy
co Best Tableaux in Ministries/Department Category-
« Ministry of Culture
¢ Theme- Bharat: Mother of Democracy
o Best Tableaux Marching Contingent Category among 3 Services-
« Sikh Regiment Marching Contingent
o Among CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces-
» Delhi Police Women Marching Contingent
e Winners awarded in People’s Choice category-
co Best Tableaux in State Category-
Rank State Theme
‘ Guiarat Dhordo: A Global Icon of

sae Gujarat's Border Tourism
2 Uttar Pradesh Viksit Bharat Samradh Virasa
Transforming School Education

3 Andhra Pradesh in Andhra Pradesh - Making
Students Globally Competitive
Best Tableaux in Ministries/Department Category-

Qo
» Ministry of Home Affairs
e Theme- Vibrant Villages
Best Tableaux Marching Contingent Category among 3 Services-

°
» Rajputana Rifles Regimental Marching Contingent
Among CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces-

fe)
» CRPF Woman Marching Contingent
Knowledge Nuggets
e India has celebrated its 75th Republic Day on 26th January 2024.
e Chief Guest- French President Emmanuel Macron
e Republic Day theme- 'Viksit Bharat’ and 'Loktatantra ki Matruka’
Source: TOI, livemint
17. Padma Awards 2024 have been announced.

e More about Padma Awards-
o Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian Awards of the country, are conferred in
three categories, namely-
» Padma Vibhushan (awarded for exceptional and distinguished service)
» Padma Bhushan (awarded for distinguished service of high order)
» Padma Shri (awarded for distinguished service in any field)
Established- 1954
These awards are given in various disciplines / fields of activities such as art, social
work, public affairs, science, etc.
Awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year, and are conferred
by the President of India.
e Awards for 2024-
o President has approved conferment of 132 Padma Awards including 2 duo cases (ina
duo case, the Award is counted as one) for the year 2024
© This year 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan and 110 Padma Shri Awards.
© List of 5 Padma Vibhushan awardees-
S. No. Name Field State/Region/Country
1 Ms. Vyjayantimala Bali Art Tamil Nadu
2 Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi Art Andhra Pradesh
3 Shri M Venkaiah Naidu Public Affairs Andhra Pradesh
Shri Bindeshwar
Social Work Bihar
Pathak(Posthumous)
Ms. Padma
Art Tamil Nadu
Subrahmanyam
List of 17 Padma Bhushan awardees-

°
. No. Name Field State/Region/Country
Ms. M Fathima
Public Affairs Kerala
Beevi(Posthumous)
Literature & Education

Hormusji N Cama Maharashtra
- Journalism
Mithun Chakraborty Art West Bengal
Sitaram Jindal Trade & Industry Karnataka
Young Liu Trade & Industry Taiwan

Ashwin Balachand Mehta Medicine Maharashtra
Satyabrata
Public Affairs West Bengal
Mookherjee(Posthumous)
Ram Naik Public Affairs Maharashtra
Tejas Madhusudan Patel Medicine Gujarat
10 Shri Olanchery Rajagopal Public Affairs Kerala
Dattatray Ambadas
11 Art Maharashtra
Mayaloo alias Rajdutt
Togdan Rinpoche
12 Others - Spiritualism Ladakh
(Posthumous)
13 Pyarelal Sharma Art Maharashtra
Chandreshwar Prasad
14 Medicine Bihar
Thakur
15 Usha Uthup Art West Bengal
16 Vijaykanth (Posthumous) Art Tamil Nadu
Literature & Education

17 Kundan Vyas Maharashtra
- Journalism
o List of important Padma Shri Awardees-

1
Charlotte Chopin Yoga France
Pierre Sylvain Filliozat Literature & Education France

ND
Kiran Vyas Others-Yoga France

W
Prakash Singh Science & Engineering Mexico

FB
Sasindran Muthuvel Public Affairs Papua New Guinea

a
Fred Negrit Literature & Education France

oOo
Source: PIB, livemint
Important Days
1. January 1- Global Family Day; Theme- Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families
Source: Quint
2. January 1- 66th Foundation Day of Defence Research and Development Organisation
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About DRDO-
e Established- 1958
e Chairman- Samir V Kamat
Source: DRDO
3. January 3- International Mind-Body Wellness Day
Source: WION
4. January 4- World Braille Day
Source: UN
5. January 6- World Day of War Orphans 2024
Source: Quint
6. January 8- Earth’s Rotation Day
e On this day the world celebrates the anniversary of French physicist Leon Foucault's 1851
proof that the Earth rotates on its axis.
7. January 9- Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day)
e ‘1st Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was observed on 9th January 2003 in Delhi.
e It has been celebrated as an annual event till 2003, but in 2015 government revised its
format to once every 2 years (biennial).
* 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was observed from 8th- 10th January with the theme-
‘Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal’.
e 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be observed on 9 January 2025.
January 2024 130

e Why 9 January is celebrated as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
o It is celebrated to mark the return of Mahatma Gandhi on the same date from South
Africa in 1915.
Source: livemint
8, January 10- World Hindi World 2024
e Day marks the commemoration of the first time Hindi was spoken in the United Nation
General Assembly (UNGA) in 1949.
e lt was first observed in 2006.
Source: TO]
9, January 11 to January 17 - National Road Safety Week
Source: Quint
10. January 11- National Human Trafficking Awareness Day
11. January 12- National Youth Day
e lt is observed to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Source: Outlook
12. January 15- Indian Army Day; Theme- Year of Technology Absorption
e Itis observed to remember General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa taking over the
command of Indian Army from General Sir FRR Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief
in 1949.
e Chief of Army Staff has announced that the Indian Army will observe the year 2024 as the
‘Year of Technology Absorption,' a theme that underscores the focus of Army and efforts
to leverage technology as a catalyst for transformative change.
Source: ET
13. January 15- 150th Year of its establishment of India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Source: PIB
January 2024 131

14. January 19- 19th National Disaster Response Force
Source: PIB
15. January 23- Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour)
e It is observed to commemorate the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Subhash Chandra

Bose.
Source: HT
16. January 24- National Girl Child Day
e QObjective- To engage the nation in creating a positive environment that values the girl
child.
e Painting competition on the theme "Mere Viksit Bharat Ka Sapna” has been organised to
mark the day.
Source: PIB
17. January 24- International Day of Education 2024; Theme- Learning for Lasting Peace
Source: UN
18. 25 January- 14th National Voters Day; Theme- Nothing Like Voting, | Vote For sure
e Key events on 25th January 2024-
o President has presented the Best Electoral Practices Awards for the year 2023 to
State and District level officers for their outstanding performance in the conduct of
elections.
oe Short voter awareness film ‘My Vote My Duty’ produced by ECI in association with
renowned filmmaker Shri Raj Kumar Hirani has been screened.
Source: PIB
19. January 25- National Tourism Day; Theme- Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories
Source: HT
January 2024 132

20. January 26- International Customs Day; Theme- Customs Engaging Traditional and New
Partners with Purpose
Source: HT
21. January 26- First-ever UN International Day of Clean Energy
e Objective-
© To raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition to clean
energy for the benefit of people and the planet.
e 26 January is also the founding date of the International Renewable Energy Agency
(IRENA).
Source: UN
22. January 27- International day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the
Holocaust 2024; Theme- Recognizing the Extraordinary Courage of Victims and Survivors
of the Holocaust
e The date marks the anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi Concentration and
Extermination Camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau by Soviet troops on 27 January 1945.
Source: auschwitz
23. January 28- World Leprosy Day; Theme- Beat Leprosy
Source: WHO
24. January 30- World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day; Theme- Unite. Act. Eliminate.
Source: worldntdday
Sports
1. Magnus Carlsen has won Gold medal in men category and Koneru Humpy from India has
won silver in women category of 2023 International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Rapid
Chess title held at Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
e Medal tally for Men-
Rank Player Country Medals
1 Magnus Carlsen Norway Gold Medal and Trophy
January 2024 133

2 Vladimir Fedoseev Slovenia Silver Medal
> Yu Yangyi China Bronze medal
e Medal tally for women-
1 Anastasia Bodnaruk Russia Gold Medal and Trophy
2 Koneru Humpy India Silver Medal
3 Lie Tingjie China Bronze medal
Source: FIDE
2. Indian teenager Anahat Singh has won girls’ under-19 title at 2023 Scottish Junior Open
Squash held in Edinburgh, Scotland.
e Key points-
o Anahat has defeated Robyn McAlpine of Scotland to win the title.
o Subhash Chaudhary of India has won in under-15 category and Shresth lyer has won in
under-13 category.
Source: Deccan Herald
3. Australian cricket player David Warner has retired from one-day international (OD!)
cricket format.
Source: ET
4. Germany has won United cup 2024 title by defeating Poland in finals held in Sydney,
Australia.
e About United cup 2024?
© Itis an international outdoor hard court Mixed-sex team tennis competition held by the
Association of Tennis Professionals and the Women's Tennis Association.
o List of winners-
Match category Winner Country
Men's single Alexander Zverev Germany
Women's single Iga Swiatek Poland
January 2024 134

Match category Winner Country
Mined doubles RICKS NG RY Zverev & Laura Géerriany

Siegemund
Source: atptour
5. Madhya Pradesh has been emerged overall champion in the 1st ever Beach Games held in
Diu.
e Key points-
o It was organized at the blue flag certified Ghoghla Beach in Diu.
oc Mascot- Pearl (a dolphin representing the abundant marine life near Diu)
o Players will compete in 8 sports (volleyball, pencak silat, beach soccer, mallakhamb,
beach kabaddi, sea swimming, and tug of war)
o Medal tally of various states-
State Medal tally
Madhya Pradesh 18
Maharashtra 14
Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and Dadra, Nagar

12
Haveli, Diu & Daman
Knowledge Nuggets
About Blue Flag certification-
e |tis an internationally recognised eco-label that is accorded based on 33

criterias.
e Itis conferred by a distinguished international jury comprising members from the
° United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),

o United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO),
o Denmark-based NGO Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), and
° International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
January 2024 135

Location of 12 Blue Flag beaches in India
Source: PIB
6. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced TATA Group as the title
sponsor for the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2024 to 2028.
e Key points-
o This deal has extended their partnership for a 5-year term.

eo Amount of sponsorship right is $2500 crore, making it highest-ever sponsorship
amount in IPL history.
January 2024 136

Knowledge Nuggets
About BCCI-
e Board of Control for Cricket in India is the national governing body of Cricket in
India.
e Established- 1928
e President- Roger Binny
Source: espn
7. Indian badminton pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have won the silver
medal in the men's doubles of Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024.
e List of winners-
Category Winner
Men's singles Shi Yu Qi (China)
Women's singles Tai Tzu Ying (Chinese Taipei)
Men's doubles Kang Min Hyuk - Seo Seung Jae (South Korea)
Women's doubles Mayu Matsumoto - Wakana Nagahara (Japan)
Dechapol Puavaranukroh - Sapsiree

Mixed doubles ; .
Taerattanachai (Thailand)
Knowledge Nuggets
About India Open
e Itis a BWF World Tour Super 750 international badminton tournament.
e 2024 India Open was the second tournament of the 2024 BWF World Tour.
e Prize money-USD 850,000
Source: olympics.com
January 2024
8. Indian contingent has won 8 medals in the Asian Shotgun Championships 2024 held at
the Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex in Kuwait City, Kuwait.
Key points-
o India has ranked 5th in the medal tally with 8 medals, China secured 1st position with
13 medals.
o Winner's List from India-
Winner Event Category Medal
Ganemat Sekhon, Maheshwari

women's skeet team gold medal
Chauhan and Raiza Dhillon
Anantjeet Singh Naruka men's skeet silver medal
Raiza Dhillon women’s S keet silver medal
Manisha Keer, Shreyasi Singh

women’s trap team silver medal
and Bhavya Tripathi
Maheshwari Chauhan women’s s keet bronze medal
Anantjeet Singh Naruka,

Munek Battula and Gurjoat men's skeet team bronze medal
Khangura
Gurjoat Singh Khangura and

mixed skeet team bronze medal
Raiza Dhillon
Lakshay Sheoran men's trap bronze medal
Source: olympics.com
9. International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced ICC Awards 2023.
List of ICC Awards 2023-
Category Winner Country
ICC Men's Twenty20 International (T201)

Suryakumar Yadav India
Cricketer of the Year 2023
ICC Women's Twenty20 International (T201)

Hayley Matthews West Indies
ICC Men's One Day International (ODI)

Virat Kohli India
ICC Women's One Day International (ODI)

Chamari Athapaththu Sri Lanka
ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer of the Year

Rachin Ravindra New Zealand
2023
January 2024
Category Winner Country
ICC Women's Emerging Cricketer of the Year

Phoebe Litchfield Australia
2023
ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year 2023 Usman Khawaja Australia
ICC Umpire of the year 2023 Richard Illingworth England
ICC Spirit of Cricket Award 2023 Zimbabwe Team Zimbabwe
Rachael Heyhioe Flint Trophy for ICC Nat SciveBrunt England

Women's Cricketer of the Year 2023
Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men's Pee caminine Rosivails
Cricketer of the Year
Knowledge Nuggets
About ICC-
e International Cricket Council is the global governing body of cricket.
e Headquarters- Dubai, UAE
e Established- 1909
e Chairman- Greg Barclay
Source: TOl
10. East Bengal FC has defeated Odisha FC in Kalinga Super Cup 2024 Final Fourth edition of
the 2024 Indian Super Cup (2024 Kalinga Super Cup) at the Kalinga Stadium in
Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Source: sportstar
11. Jannik Sinner of Italy has won the men's singles title, Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus won
the women's singles title at the Australian Open 2024.
e Key points-
o Indian player Rohan Bopanna has became the oldest man (at 43 years and 329 days)
to win a Grand Slam.
o He has won doubles title with his partner Matthew Ebden (Australia) in Australian
Open.
January 2024
© Australian Open 2024 has been held at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia.
List of winners in Australian Open 2024 under different category-
Category Winner Runner-up
Men's Singles Jannik Sinner (Italy) Daniil Medvedev (Russia)

Women's Singles Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus) Zheng Qinwen (China)
Rohan Bopanna (India) and Simone Bolelli (Italy) and Andrea

Men's Doubles
Matthew Ebden(Australia) Vavassori (Italy)
Hsieh Su-Wei (Taiwan) and Elise Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia) and

Women's Doubles
Mertens(Belgium) Lyudmyla Kichenok (Ukraine)
Hsieh Su-wei (Chinese Taipei) Desirae Krawczyk (USA) and

Mixed Doubles
and Jan Zielinski(Poland) Neal Skupski (United Kingdom)
Source: The Hindu, HT
Memorandum of Understanding
i National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has entered into a Memorandum of
Understanding with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to develop and report a
"Green Cover Index”.
More about MoU-
°o Duration of partnership- 3 years
o NRSC will establish a "Green Cover Index" for National Highways using high-resolution
satellite imagery.
o Green Cover Index will enable targeted interventions in areas lacking sufficient green
cover.
© Subsequent annual cycles will help in estimating the growth patterns of green cover for
National Highways using scientific techniques.
January 2024 140

Knowledge Nuggets
About NRSC-
e It is one of the centres of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
e Itis responsible for remote sensing satellite data acquisition and processing, data
dissemination, aerial remote sensing and decision support for disaster
management.
e Location- Hyderabad, Telangana
Source: Pl
2. Quality Council of India (QC!) and Khadi Village and Industries Commission (KVIC) have
signed an MoU to introduce made in India labelled khadi merchandise.
¢ Objective-
o To improve the quality of khadi products and empower khadi artisans.
e Key points-
© QCI will support KVIC by providing third party assessment framework, capacity building
to improve productivity and promote khadi products.
© Collaboration will provide increased income and new employment opportunities for
artisans.
January 202
Knowledge Nuggets
About QCI-
e Quality Council of India (QCI) is an autonomous organization under the

Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of
Commerce and Industry.
e It was established for raising the quality and standards related to every aspect of
life for the overall development of the nation.
e Established- 1997
About KVIC-
« Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is a statutory body established

by an Act of Parliament.
e Itis charged with the planning, promotion, organisation and implementation of

programs for the development of Khadi and other village industries in the rural
areas.
e Established- 1957
Source: ET
3. Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed Rs 802 crore contract with Jupiter Wagons for
indigenous military equipment procurement.
4. REC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of Baroda
(BoB) to jointly finance projects in the power, infrastructure, and logistics sectors over
the next 3 years.
e Objective-
°o To catalyse transformative projects that will positively impact communities and drive
socio-economic progress
January 2024 142

5. Union Cabinet has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between
the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Mauritius Research and Innovation
Council (MRIC) for cooperation on the development of a Joint Small Satellite.
e Key points-
o MoU will enable the establishment of a framework for cooperation between ISRO and
MRIC on the development of a joint satellite and cooperation on the use of the MRIC's
Ground Station.
o It also enable the joint realisation of small satellites between ISRO and MRIC.
° Satellite realisation is proposed to be completed in a 15-month time frame.
Knowledge Nuggets
About ISRO-
e Established- 1969
¢ Chairman- S Somanath
6. Union Cabinet has approved the MoU signed between Indian Railways and the United
States Agency for International Development to support Indian Railways to achieve Net
Zero Carbon Emission by 2030.
e Key points-
o MoU will be effective for 5 years or until the effective end of the South Asia Regional
Energy Partnership (SAREP) whichever period is shorter.
o Under the SAREP initiative USAID will provide technical assistance for the services.
January 2024
Knowledge Nuggets
About USAID-
e United States Agency for International Development is an independent agency of

the United States government that is primarily responsible for administering
civilian foreign aid and development assistance.
e Headquarters- Washington, D.C., USA
e Established- 1961
Source: ET
7. Odisha government has signed an MoU with National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
to set up new Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility to produce Anthrax and ENT
Vaccines in Ganjam District, Odisha.
e The agreement for the Rs 52-crore facility to be set up at the satellite unit of Odisha
Biological Products Institute in Berhampur.
Knowledge Nuggets
About National Dairy Development Board
e National Dairy Development Board is a statutory body set up by National Dairy

Development Board Act, 1987 of the Parliament of India.
e Founder- Verghese Kurien
e Ministry- Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Source: PT]
8. Karnataka Bank has partnered with fintech company Digivriddhi (DGV) to offer financial
services catering to the needs of dairy farmers and milk societies.
e Objective-
© To facilitate institutional credit, streamline payment processes, and introduce

digitalization throughout the dairy value chain.
January 2024 144

e Key points-
o Services will be provided at village dairy co-operative societies associated with milk
unions of Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF).
o ‘'DGV Pay’ product will simplify the payments value chain for dairy farmers and micro-
enterprises helping with their basic banking needs.
o ‘'DGV Money’ product is built with a unique underwriting mechanism that facilitates
digital working capital and bovine loans to farmers.
eo ‘DGV Connect’ is built to address the gaps in bovine discovery, pricing and productivity
with embedded financing options
Knowledge Nuggets
About Karnataka Bank-
e Itis an Indian private sector bank.
e Headquarters- Mangalore, Karnataka
e« Established- 1924
9. India & United Kingdom have signed 2 MoU during the visit of Union Defence Minister
Rajnath Singh to United Kingdom.
e More about MoUs-
i. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and U.K. on

conduct of bilateral international cadet exchange programme.
ii. A Letter of Arrangement has been signed between Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO) and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
(DSTL) of UK on defence collaboration in research and development.
January 2024 145

Knowledge Nuggets
About DRDO-
e Established- 1958
e Chairman- Samir V Kamat
Source: Pl
10. India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to transform the financial landscape of rural
Rajasthan.
e Objective-
© To redefine financial inclusion and empower HZL’s community beneficiaries with

access to advance financial services.
e More about MoU-
© It will help in providing support and empowering more than 3.5 Lakhs beneficiaries
covering SHG women, farmers, and youth to become Individual Business
Correspondents for various IPPB services.
o It will promote government social welfare Schemes through the IPPB banking channels
and assist beneficiaries in availing income-generating loans through IPPB’s lending
partners.
Knowledge Nuggets
About India Post Payment Bank-
e Established- 2017
¢ MD and CEO- J. Venkatramu
Source: PIB
January 2024
11. Ministry of Rural Development and State Bank of India have signed a memorandum of
understanding (MoU) to facilitate enterprise financing for rural self-help groups (SHG).
e Key points-
oe State Bank of India has launched a financial product called Svyam Siddha, specifically
designed for women entrepreneurs in self-help groups (SHGs).
co Product is designed for loans up to Rs 5 lakhs and aims to address challenges related
to extensive documentation requirements for loan applications.
o Svyam Siddha has removed the requirement for heavy paperwork like quotes and
detailed project reports.
© The application process is simplified, requiring only a simple loan application with KYC
details, which can be submitted at local SBI bank branches.
o DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission) will

facilitate the loan application process and oversee loan repayment through its
dedicated field cadre.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SBI-
e State Bank of India is an Indian multinational public sector bank and financial
services statutory body.
¢ Headquarters- Mumbai
e Established- 1955
e Chairman- Dinesh Kumar Khara
About DAY-NRLM-
e |tis acentrally sponsored scheme launched by Ministry of Rural Development.
e Launched- 2011
e Objective-
o To reduce rural poverty by helping families in rural areas with various income-
generating activities and better access to financial services throughout the
country.
January 2024 147

12. Central Government has signed an agreement to acquire five lithium brine blocks for
exploration and development in Argentina.
e Key points-
eo Agreement has been signed between Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) and Catamarca
Minera Y Energética Sociedad Del Estado (CAMYEN).
o KABIL will start exploration and development of five lithium brine blocks covering an
area of about 15,703 hectares in the Catamarca province.
Knowledge Nuggets
About KABIL-
e Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) is a Joint Venture Company among NALCO,
HCL and MECL.
e Objective- To identify, acquire, develop, process and make commercial use of

strategic minerals in overseas locations for supply in India.
e Established- August, 2019
Source: Business Standard, mines.gov.in
13. Google India Digital Services and NPCI International Payments, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding to expand UPI to countries beyond India.
e MoU has three key objectives-
o To increase the use of UPI payments for travelers outside of India, enabling them to
conveniently make transactions abroad.
© To assist in establishing UPI-like digital payment systems in other countries.
oc To focus on easing the process of remittances between countries by utilizing the UPI
infrastructure, and simplifying cross-border financial exchanges.
January 2024 148

Knowledge Nuggets
About NPCI International Payment Ltd (NIPL)-
e It is a wholly owned subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India (NPC\I).
e Itis devoted for deployment of RuPay (domestic card scheme) and UPI (mobile
payment solution) outside of India.
Source: The Hindu, NPCl
14. International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) has signed a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) and Gujarat State Petroleum
Corporation (GSPC) to establish a global hydrogen trading mechanism.
e Objective-
o To improve transparency, boost investor confidence, and facilitate the growth of the
green hydrogen market on global scale.
Source: ET
15. Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the National
Farmers’ Welfare Programme Implementation Society, IndiaAl under Digital India
Corporation, and Wadhwani Foundation.
e Objective-
o To use cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (Al) technologies for the benefit of farmers
and to increase overall productivity.
e Key points-
°o 'Kisan e-Mitra,' an Al-powered chatbot addressing farmers' queries about the PM

Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.
© Itis championing the India Digital Ecosystem Architecture (InDEA) 2.0's network
approach, designed by the Ministry of Electronics & IT
Source: PIB
16. Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) under the Ministry of Defence and All India
Institute of Medical Sciences (AlIMS), New Delhi have signed a Memorandum of
January 2024
Understanding (MOU).
e Objectives-
oe To collaborate on mutual interests, involving joint research and academic initiatives to

address diverse scientific and technological challenges.
© To explore possibilities of faculty exchange program.
Source: PIB
17. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) for co-lending and loan
syndication for a diverse spectrum of Renewable Energy projects across the nation.
e Key points-
o It includes provisions for co-lending and co-origination support for all Renewable
Energy projects.
o Partnership aims to streamline loan syndication and underwriting processes,

management of Trust and Retention Account (TRA) for IREDA borrowers, and
°o To work towards fixed interest rates over a 3-4-year period for IREDA borrowings.
Source: PIB
18. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Communications of
the Republic of Cuba.
e Objective-
© TO promote cooperation in the field of sharing successful digital solutions implemented

at a population scale for digital transformation.
e More about MoU-
o It focuses on promoting digital transformation(INDIA STACK) through Capacity Building

Programs to mutually benefit the digital ecosystems of India and Cuba.
© India will collaborate with Cuba by building the development partnership on digital
transformation to facilitate a seamless adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure in Cuba.
January 2024 150

Knowledge Nuggets
About India Stack-
e India Stack is the name used to describe a collection of disparate technology

products and frameworks.
e It is aa set of open Application Programming Interface (APIs) and digital public

goods that aim to unlock the economic primitives of identity, data, and payments
at population scale.
Source: PIB
19. Gurgaon-based ACME Group has signed an offtake term sheet for the supply of green
ammonia from its project in Odisha to IHI Corporation, a Japanese integrated heavy
industry company.
e Key points-
o Green hydrogen and ammonia project of ACME in Odisha has a planned capacity of 1.2
MMTPA to be developed in phases, and the first production is likely to be expected by
2027.
o Whatis Green Ammonia?
» Ammonia is a chemical which is used mainly in the manufacture of nitrogenous

fertilizers, like urea and ammonium nitrate, but can be put to other uses too, such
as to run engines.
» Green ammonia production is where the process of making ammonia is 100%

renewable and carbon-free.
20. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana — National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of
Rural Development (MoRD), and Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi, have renewed a
5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for ROSHNI - Centre of Women Collectives
led Social Action (CWCSA).
e Objective-
° To strengthen interventions for better results of Food, Nutrition, Health and WASH
(FNHW) for rural communities.
e More about MoU-
January 2024 151

© MOoRD will collaborate with ROSHNI-CWCSA to enhance the results of Food, Nutrition,
Health, and WASH (FNHW) for rural communities.
o Partnership will strengthen nutrition, gender equity and livelihoods for women.
Knowledge Nuggets
About DAY-NRLM-
e DAY-NRLM, launched in 2011, is a flagship poverty alleviation program
implemented by the MoRD.
Source: Pl
21. REC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National
Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL).
e« Objective-
© To collaborate on a suite of funding solutions for Renewable Energy Projects as well as

large-scale infrastructure projects in India.
Knowledge Nuggets
About REC Limited-
e Itis a 'Maharatna’' CPSE under the Ministry of Power, and is registered with RBI as
Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), and Infrastructure Financing Company
(IFC).
e |Itis a Maharatna company under the administrative control of the Ministry of

Power.
e Established- 1969
e Chairman & Managing Director- Vivek Kumar Dewangan
About National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited-

e Itis the country's largest sovereign-linked alternative-asset manager.
e Established- 2015
e Md &CEO- Rajiv Dhar
Source: PIB, PIB
Appointment
1. Durga Shankar Mishra has been re-appointed as Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh.
e He has got 3rd extension and will serve till June 30, 2024.
Source: ET
2. Nadia Calvino of Spain has took over as 1st woman president of European Investment
Bank (EIB).
« Key points-
o She has replaced Werner Hoyer and is now the 8th president of the EU Bank.
January 2024 153

Knowledge Nuggets
About European Investment Bank-
e European Union's investment bank and is owned by the 27 member states.
e Itis the largest multilateral financial institution in the world.
e Headquarters- Luxembourg
e Established- 1958
e President- Nadia Calvino
Source: El
3. Vice-Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi has took over as the Vice-Chief of the Naval Staff
(VCNS).
¢ Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh has took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief
(FOCINC), Western Naval Command.
Source: The Hindu
4. Randhir Jaiswal has assumed the charge as official Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
spokesperson.
Source: The Hindu
5. Puneet Chhatwal has been appointed as the Chairman of Federation of Associations in

Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH).
e What is FAITH?
°o FAITH is the apex body of the tourism and hospitality industry in the private sector in
India. It includes all the national associations as its members.
Source: ET
6. Success Masra has been appointed as new Prime Minister of Chad.
e Chad is a country in north-central Africa.
Source: ABC
January 2024 154

7. Emir of Kuwait has appointed Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah as prime
minister.
Source: Reuters
8. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has appointed G Ram Mohan Rao as
Executive Director for 3 years.
e He will handle the investigation department and the internal inspection department.
Knowledge Nuggets
About SEBI-
9. Sanjiv Aggarwal has been appointed as chief executive officer and managing director of
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL).
January 2024 155

Knowledge Nuggets
About NIIFL-
It maintains infrastructure investments funds for international and Indian investors

anchored by the Government of India.
It was announced in budget 2015-16, and Central government has 49%

ownership in it.
Headquarters- Mumbai
Established- 2015
MD & CEO- Rajiv Dhar
Sources: livemint
10. Ravindra Kumar Tyagi has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of
Powergrid Corporation of India Ltd.
Source: ET
11. Canara Bank chief general manager P Santhosh has been appointed as Chief Executive
Officer of National Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd. (NARCL).
Knowledge Nuggets
About NARCL-
NARCL has been incorporated under the Companies Act as an Asset

Reconstruction Company (ARC).
NARCL has been set up by banks to aggregate and consolidate stressed assets
for their subsequent resolution.
Public Sector Banks have 51% ownership in NARCL.
Established- 2021
Source: ET , Pl
January 2024
12. Indian Olympic Association (OA) has appointed former Indian Premier League official
Raghuram lyer as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IOA.
Knowledge Nuggets
About Indian Olympic Associatio

n-
e IOC is responsible for selecting athletes to represent India at the Olympic Games,
Asian Games and other international sports competitions, and managing Indian
teams at these events.
e Established- 1927
e¢ President- P.T. Usha
13. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has won 5th term as the Prime Minister of the
country.
e Key points-
eo She has won a record 4th consecutive term as the country’s Prime Minister.
o Her party Awami League has won two-third of the seats.
Source: India Today
14. Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Aruna Nayar as Secretary of
the Railway Board.
Source: PIB
15. Gabriel Attal has been appointed as the youngest ever Prime Minister of France.
Source: CNN
16. Senior diplomat of India, Indra Mani Pandey has assumed the position of Secretary
General (SG) of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
January 2024
e Key points-
o Tenure- 3 Years
oc He will succeed Tenzin Lekphell of Bhutan, who is the 4th SG of BIMSTEC.
o He became the ‘st Indian to hold this post.
Knowledge Nuggets
About BIMSTEC-
e Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
(BIMSTEC) is a regional multilateral organisation.
e It consists 7 members out of which 5 are from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and 2 are from Southeast Asia (Myanmar and
Thailand).
e It was established in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration.
Source: AIR
17. Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra
Modi has approved the reappointment of Michael Debabrata Patra as Deputy Governor of
the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
e Key points-
o The appointment is effective from January 15.
o He was first appointed as a Deputy Governor in January 2020 for a three-year term.
o He oversees the monetary policy department and serves as a member of the Monetary
Policy Committee (MPC), which decides on interest rates.
Source: DH
18. Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has appointed Maheshwar Rao as the new
Full-time Managing Director (MD) of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited
(BMRCL).
19. Incumbent Vice President of Taiwan Lai Ching-te has been elected President of Taiwan.
January 2024 158

e He belongs to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of Taiwan.
20. Reserve Bank of India has approved the appointment of Praveen Achuthan Kutty as the
Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DCB Bank Limited.
e Appointment is for 3 years with effect from April 29, 2024.
Source: ET
21. Frederik André Henrik Christian, Crown Prince of Denmark has been proclaimed as the
new king of Denmark by it's Prime Minister (PM) Mette Frederiksen.
Source: reuters
22. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Indian
Police Service (IPS) officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary as the Director General (DG) of
Sashastra Seema Bal.
e SSB guards border of India with Nepal and Bhutan.
e Whatis Appointments Committee of the Cabinet?
°o This committee takes decision regarding all higher level appointments in Cabinet
Secretariat, public enterprises, banks and financial institutions.
© Composition- It is headed by Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, and minister in-
charge of concerned Ministry.
Source: ET
23. Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja has been appointed as the brand ambassador premium
electronic product brand ‘VARNI’.
Source: ANI
24. Tshering Tobgay, leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has been elected for his
2nd term as Prime Minister of Bhutan.
e Key points-
o Heis 4th freely elected prime minister of Bhutan since democracy was established in
Bhutan in 2008.
January 2024 159

o Heis a former bureaucrat and an was previously prime minister from 2013 to 2018.
Knowledge Nuggets
India has constructed Hydroelectric Projects (HEPs) in Bhutan:
e Chukha Hydroelectric Power Project
e Kurichhu Hydroelectric Power Project
e Tala Hydroelectric Power Project
e Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Power Project
Source: reuters
25. Janata Dal (United) chief Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of Bihar for the 9th
time.
e« He has formed alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BUP)-led National Democratic
Alliance (NDA).
Source: HT.
26. Sharat Chauhan has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of
Puducherry.
Source: The Hindu
27. Azali Assoumani has been re-elected as the President of Comoros for 4th term.
e Key points-
o India-Comoros partnership forms strong pillar of India-Africa partnership and the

‘Vision Sagar’.
o Whatis Vision SAGAR?
» Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) is India's policy or doctrine of
maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
» |t was announced on March 12, 2015.
January 2024 160

Knowledge Nuggets
v
About Comoros-
« Comoros is an island country in the Indian Ocean.
e Itis situated in the Mozambique Channel, between the African coast (nearest to
Mozambique and Tanzania) and Madagascar, with no land borders.
Miscellaneous
1. Felix Tshisekedi has been elected as the President of Democratic Republic of Congo.
Source: BBC
2. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Vivek
Srivastava as Director General of Fire Service, Civil Defence & Home Guards under the
Ministry of Home Affairs.
Source: PSW.
January 2024 161

3. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad has launched book named ‘Ram Mandir Rashtra Mandir
Ak Sajhi Virasat’ at Rang Bhawan Auditorium, Delhi.
e Written by- Geeta Singh and Arif Khan Bharti
Source: ANI
4. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has released book title ‘Maha Kavithai' by poet
Vairamuthu in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
e The book explores five elements - soil, wind, fire, sky, and water.
Source: TOI
5. Padma Bhushan awardee and Prominent Indian-American legal scholar, Professor Ved
Prakash Nanda has passed away.
e He was awarded Padma Bhushan for literature and education in 2018.
Source: Quint
6. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, General VK Singh has released a book ‘Sanskriti K
Aayam’ written by Manorama Mishra.
e Book is based on Indian culture.
e Published by- National Book Trust
Source: ANI
7. Former Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane has written his memoir titled ‘Four
Stars of Destiny’.
e Published by- Penguin Veer
Source: The Hindu
8. Hindustani classical singer and music maestro Rashid Khan has passed away.
e More about Ustad Rashid Khan-
© Born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, Rashid Khan has received his initial training from his
maternal grand-uncle, Ustad Nissar Hussain Khan (1909-1993).
o He was an exponent of the Rampur-Sahaswan gayaki (style of singing) which is closely
related to the Gwalior gharana.
eo Awards won-
» He has won several awards including Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi
Award in 2006.
» He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2022.
» He was awarded the Banga Bibhushan and Sangeet Mahasamman by West Bengal
government.
Source: The Hindu
9. Noted Hindi and Bhojpuri poet, lyricist and litterateur Pandit Hariram Dwivedi has passed
away.
e Poetry collection by Pandit Hariram Dwivedi-
o Anganaiya
o Jeevandayini Ganga
10. Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav has launched book titled 'Modi: Energising a Green
Future’.
e More about book-
o Published by- Pentagon Press in association with Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee
Research Foundation
o The book analyzes PM Narendra Modi's environmental leadership, which highlighting

ambitious contributions of India to a sustainable and eco-friendly future.
Source: ANI
11. Union Minister Giriraj Singh has released a handbook titled "Panchayats Free From
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) - A Handbook for Elected Representatives” in New Delhi.
e Handbook was launched during the virtual inauguration of the one-day National Workshop
on Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Source: PIB
January 2024 163

12. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kodagu District, Karnataka State.
e |t derives its name from the highest peak of the mountain range, Brahmagiri Peak.
e It is famous for large density of Elephants and Sambar .
e Established- 5 June 1974

Source: crot
13. Hindustani classical vocalist Prabha Atre has passed away in Pune, Maharashtra.
e Key points-
o She represents the Kirana Gharaanaa of Hindustani classical music.
e« Awards-
o She has been honoured with the Padma Shri in 1990; Padma Bhushan in 2002; and
Padma
Vibhushan in 2022 for Arts.
o She has received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1991 as an appreciation for her
outstanding role in enriching, preserving, and popularizing Indian art, and music.
o Her first book ' Swaramayee' which is a compilation of many of her articles on music.
14. Renowned Urdu poet Munawwar Rana has passed away at the age of 71 in Lucknow, Uttar
Pradesh (UP).
e Key points-
o His expertise lay notably in ghazals, a poetic structure characterized by rhyming

couplets and a recurring refrain, for which he gained significant recognition.
e Awards:
o He has been awarded Sahitya Akademi Award in 2014 for his poetry book 'Shahdaba’.
co He was also awarded the Gyanpeeth Award in 2014.
15. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has released the book 'Fertilising the Future: Bharat's
March Towards Fertilizer Self-Sufficiency’.
e Key point-
January 2024 164

°o Written by- Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya
o Hindi version of the book is titled 'Urvarak-Atmanirbharta ki Raah’.
o Book outlines the journey of making India self-reliant in the fertilizer sector under the
leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the revolutionary changes that have
taken place till date.
Source: AIR
16. “An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and Narayana Murthy” book has been
written by Indian-American author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni.
e Key points-
o Published by- Juggernaut Books
o Biography covers the early years of Sudha Murty's and Narayana Murthy's lives.
Source: HT
17. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah has released the book
'Assam's Braveheart Lachit Barphukan' in Guwahati, Assam.
e Key points-
o Written by- Arup Kumar Dutta
eo Book has been published by the State government in English language and translated in
24 Scheduled Indian languages.
Source: AIR
18. Union Minister, Amit Shah has launched a book titled, 'A Promised Nation Hon'ble Shri
Narendra Modi- the Maker of New India‘, written on the life and works of PM Modi in
Braille script in New Delhi.
e Published by- VRL Logistics Limited (formerly Vijayanand Roadlines Limited)
Source: PIB
19. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has released the first Volume of ‘Political
History of Assam (1947-1971)' in Guwahati, Assam.
e Published by- Assam government
e Edited by- Famous historian Dr. Rajen Saikia
January 2024 165

e More about book-
© Book will provides an insight into the political events that have shaped socio-economic
life of Assam.
Source: TOI!
20. 1st hockey Olympian from Chandigarh, Sukhbir Singh Gill has passed away.
e He represented India at the Sydney Olympics (2000), Hockey World Cup in Kuala Lumpur
(2002), and FIH Champions Trophy in Cologne (Germany) in 2002.
Source: HT
21. Rana Talwar, 1st person from Asia to head a global bank (Standard Chartered) has passed
away.
Source: HT
Questions
Q.1) Recently, Finance Ministry has imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of
‘Wheel Loaders' from China. Anti-dumping is defined as a measure to rectify the situation
arising out of the dumping of goods and its trade distortive effect. What is meant by dumping
of goods in similar context?
[A] It is the practice of exporting goods by a country to another country at a price higher than
the price it normally charges in its own home market.
[B] It is the practice of importing goods from another country at a price lower than the price it
normally charges in its own home market.
[C] It is the practice of exporting goods by a country to another country at a price lower than
the price it normally charges in its own home market.
[D] It is the practice of exporting goods by a country to another country at the same price it
normally charges in its own home market.
[E] It is the practice of exporting goods by a country to another country at a variable price,
fluctuating based on the demand in its own home market.
Q.2) "During the high-level exchange between India and Russia, which took place from
December 25th to 29th during the visit of Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, a bilateral
agreement was signed regarding the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant between the two
nations." Which statement is correct related to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant?
[A] It is the only powerplant in India based on nuclear fusion technology, located in the
Alappuzha district of Kerala.
January 2024 166

[B] It is the biggest powerplant in India, located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
[C] It is renowned as the oldest power plant in India, positioned in the Tirunelveli district of
Tamil Nadu.
[D] It is the most recent power plant in India, located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
[E] It is the most modern and sophisticated power plant in India, located in the Alappuzha
district of Kerala.
Q.3) ICUS platform facilitates the seamless transfer of data and information among
various pillars of criminal justice system worldwide. _____—~—SSSSsras ranked ‘st in country in
Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) for 3rd consecutive year.
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Bihar
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
[E] Maharashtra
Q.4) Which city in India will be developed as first Artificial Intelligence (Al) city, equipped with
research centres and educational institutions which will be integrated with cutting edge
technology?
[A] Mumbai, Maharashtra
[B] Pune, Maharashtra
[C] Kolkata, West Bengal
[D] Indore, Madhya Pradesh
[E] Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Q.5) ___ sas: Set Guiness World Record for the most people performing Surya
Namaskar simultaneously. Over 4,000 participants across 108 locations and 51 different
categories have performed Surya Namaskar.
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Gujarat
[D] Madhya Pradesh
[E] Karnataka
Q.6) In past RBI has introduced guidelines to prevent banks from using penal charges as a way
to increase revenue instead of promoting credit discipline among borrowers. Recently, Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) has extended the deadline for introduction of new penal charges regime by
Upto.
[A] 2 months, March 1, 2024
January 2024 167

[B] 6 month, April 1, 2024
[C] 3 months, April 1, 2024
[D] 4 months, April 1, 2024
[E] 1 month, February 1, 2024
Q.7) Central government has appointed former Niti Aayog vice chairman and Columbia
University professor _____———SSSsaas the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission. Finance
Commission is a constitutional body set up under____———————S—S——sof thee Cconsstitution.
[A] Suman Bery, Article 280

[B] Arvind Panagariya, Article 280
[C] A Muthukumar, Article 268
([D] Urvashi Prasad, Article 278
[E] Geetu Makhija, Article 258
Q.8) Indian economy is expected to comfortably surpass the government's growth estimate of
6.5% in FY24 as per Finance Ministry's Half-Yearly Economic Review 2023-24 report. What is
the projection for Real GDP growth in the first half of FY24?
[A] 6.7%
[B] 7.7%
[C] 5.8%
[D] 5.9%
[E] 6.1%
Q.9) Indiaand___ Cave Commenced joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’ in

Mahajan, Rajasthan. The objective of exercise is to improve cooperation and interoperability
between both the sides during Peace Keeping Operations.
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] United Arab Emirates
[C] Oman
[D] Australia
[E] Mongolia
Q.10) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has recently launched its inaugural
polarimetry mission, the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat). This satellite features two
payloads: POLIX, representing the Indian X-ray Polarimeter, and XSPECT. What does XSPECT
stand for in the context of ISRO's XPoSat mission?
[A] X-ray Synthesis and Temperature
[B] X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing
[C] Xerox Spectral Telemetry
vanuary 2024 4
[D] Xenolith Spectral Topography
[E] X-ray Synthesis Tool
Q.11) January 1is observed as the 66th Foundation Day of Defence Research and Development
Organisation, which t is the main research & development agency under the Ministry of
Defence. The headquarters of DRDO is located in____—~——_—soaarnd it was established in
[A] New Delhi, 1961

[B] Hyderabad, 1958
[C] New Delhi, 1958
[D] Pune, 1961
[E] Bengaluru, 1964
Q12) ___SS—sShas won gold medal in men category and____ has won silver
in women category of 2023 International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Rapid Chess title held
at Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
[A] Magnus Carlsen, Lie Tingjie
[B] Magnus Carlsen, Koneru Humpy
[C] Yu Yangyi, Anastasia Bodnaruk
[D] Vladimir Fedoseev, Lie Tingjie
[E] Vladimir Fedoseev, Koneru Humpy
Q.13) Who has won girls’ under-19 title at 2023 Scottish Junior Open Squash held in Edinburgh,
Scotland?
[A] Tanvi Khanna
[B] Anahat Singh
[C] Anaka Alankamony
[D] Surbhi Mishra
[E] Anwesha Reddy
Q.14) What is the statutory status of National Institution for Transforming India (NIT!) Aayog in
India?
[[a] Statutory body
[A] Constitutional body

[B] non-statutory body
[C] non- constitutional body
[D] both optionc &d
Q.15) Recently, Bandhan Bank has introduced ‘INSPIRE’ program designed exclusively for
January 2024 169

senior citizens. Headquarters of Bandhan Bank is located at
[A] Mumbai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Kolkata
[D] Pune
[E] Bengaluru
Q.16) Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has launched National Single
Window System (NSWS) to streamline the import, clinical investigations, and testing of medical
devices. Which entity has developed National Single Window System (NSWS)?
[A] Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
[B] Wipro
[C] Infosys
[D] Tech Mahindra
[E] IBM
Q.17) What is the purpose of K-SMART application launched by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi
Vijayan?
[A] To provide access to the medical service portal of the state.
[B] To provide a unified platform to access job cards of registered workforce.
[C] To provide digital access to services offered by local self-government bodies.
[D] To provide a portal for accessing electricity and water supply services of state.
[E] To provide a digital platform for application of tenders launched by state government.
Q.18) Which state/ union territory has launched a grievance redressal portal 'Awaam Se,
Awaam Ke Liye’ for people and force personnel?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Jammu and Kashmir
[C] Lakshadweep
[D] Ladakh
[E] Chandigarh
Q.19) Jammu and Kashmir has become the ‘st Union Territory (UT) to implement the PM
Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY). When PM Vishwakarma Yojana was initiated by the Central
government?
[A] October 2021
[B] October 2022
[C] September 2023
January 2024 170

[D] April 2023
[E] April 2022
Q.20) BRICS refers to a consortium of prominent emerging economies, encompassing Brazil,

Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and 5 New countries have joined BRICS in 2024. Among
the recently admitted member countries to BRICS in the year 2024, identify the country that is
not included among the newly added 5 countries?
[A] Egypt
[B] Ethiopia
[C] Saudi Arabia
[D] Argentina
[E] United Arab Emirates
Q.21) Ministry of Heavy Industries has extended the tenure of the Production Linked Incentive
(PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components by 1 year. In which year Production Linked
Incentive scheme was launched?
[A] 2018
[B] 2019
[C] 2020
[D] 2022
[E] 2021
Q.22) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised guidelines for classifying accounts and
deposits as inoperative accounts and unclaimed deposits by banks. How unclaimed deposits is
defined?
[A] Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 10 years or term deposits unclaimed
for 10 years
[B] Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 5 years or term deposits unclaimed
for 5 years
[C] Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 8 years or term deposits unclaimed
for 8 years
[D] Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 20 years or term deposits
unclaimed for 20 years
[E] Balances in savings/current accounts not operated for 12 years or term deposits unclaimed
for 12 years
Q.23) Which Indian cricketer has won ‘Pubity Athlete of The Year 2023’ award by defeating
Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi 78-22 in the final vote count?
January 2024
[A] Sachin Tendulkar
[B] Rohit Sharma
[C] Virat Kohli
[D] Mohammad Shami
[E] Shubhman Gill
Q.24) Who has taken over as 1st woman president of European Investment Bank (EIB)?
[A] Adena Friedman
[B] Christine Lagarde
[C] Abigail Johnson
[D] Nadia Calvino
[E] Ursula Von Der Leyen
Q.25) ___=SSsrnas emerged as the ‘petro capital’ of India due to the presence of
significant oil and petrochemical facilities.
[A] Telangana
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Gujarat
[D] Andhra Pradesh
[E] Rajasthan
Q.26) Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has extended deadline for Employers to
upload wage details for Pension on Higher Wages to___———s from...
[A] May 31, 2024, December 31, 2023

[B] January 31, 2024, August 31, 2023
[C] March 31, 2024, December 31, 2023
[D] September 30, 2024, February 28, 2024
[E] June 30, 2024, January 31, 2024
Q.27) Recently, 3 products from Arunachal Pradesh have received Geographical Indication (Gl)
tag. Which among the following is the correct combination of these 3 products?
[A] Majuli masks, Adi kekir, and Handmade carpet by Tibetan settlers
[B] Adi kekir, Handmade carpet by Tibetan settlers, and Wooden items made by Wancho
community
[C] Adi kekir, Handmade carpet by Tibetan settlers, and Muga Silk
[D] Chokuwa Rice, Handmade carpet by Tibetan settlers, and Muga Silk
[E] Judima, Adi kekir, and Chokuwa Rice
January 2024 172

Q.28) Which state has recently reduced the age limit for old age pension to 50 years from 60
years for receiving old age pension for the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC communities?
[A] Assam
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Telangana
[D] Himachal Pradesh
[E] Punjab
Q.29) Bajaj Finserv has recently launched first credit pass of India powered by CIBIL to provide
customers with real-time access to their credit dashboard for tracking and monitoring credit
health. What is the full form of CIBIL?
[A] Central Information Bureau of India Limited
[B] Credit Information Bureau (India) Limited
[C] Corporate Investment and Banking Institute Limited
[D] Cybernetic Insurance and Brokerage Inclusion Limited
[E] Consumer Intelligence and Banking Integration Limited
Q.30) ____ sass celebrated 14th Chandubi Festival from January 1 to January 5,
2024 to highlights and celebrates the cultural heritage of tribal communities.
[A] West Bengal
[B] Mizoram
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Assam
[E] Arunachal Pradesh
Q.31) World Bank has issued bonds in 3 currencies to finance green and social projects
in member countries. Function of World Bank includes providing loans and grants to the
governments of low and middle-income countries for the purpose of pursuing capital projects.
It was created at , along with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
[A] General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade

[B] Conference of the Parties
[C] Conference on International Economic Cooperation (CIEC)
[D] Bretton Woods Conference
[E] Vienna Convention
Q.32) Which company has become ‘st Electronic Vehicle (EV) company to get Production
Linked Incentive (PLI) approval after fulfilling the eligibility requirements such as minimum of
50% domestic value addition to its vehicle?
January 2024
[A] Tata Motors
[B] Hero Electric
[C] OLA Electric
[D] Ather Energy
[E] Ampere evs
Q.33) India Ratings has raised GDP growth forecast of India for 2023-24 (FY24) to 6.7% from
6.2%. What is the GDP growth forecast of India for 2023-24 (FY24) by Reserve Bank of India
and International Monetary Fund respectively?
[A] 7.6% and 6.9%
[B] 8.1% and 7.9%
[C] 7.2% and 7.5%
[D] 6.9% and 6.5%
[E] 7% and 6.3%
Q.34) SpaceX has launched its first_________—_ Starlink satellite. These satellites allow users
to directly connect their cell phones to mobile networks without a Starlink terminal.
[A] Direct-to-phone
[B] Direct-to-cell
[C] Direct-to-home
[D] Direct-to-mobile
[E] Direct-to-earth
Q.35) Who has been honoured with the prestigious M.S. Swaminathan Award for his
contributions as a scientist and extension specialist in the field of agronomy at the International
Conference on 'One Health One World,’ held at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural
University at Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh?
[A] Prof. B.R. Kamboj
[B] Dr YK Alagh
[C] Dr SK Vasal
([D] Dr Surinder (Suri) M. Sehgal
[E] Prof. SK Singh
Q.36) On Which date World Braille Day is observed every year?

[A] January 4
[B] December 30
[C] January 9
[D] February 11
[E] December 26
lanuarv 202
January 202
Q.37) National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has entered into a Memorandum of
Understanding with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to develop and report
a
[A] Nature Cover Quotient
[B] Environmental Foliage Index

[C] Ecological Canopy Score
[D] Green Cover Index
[E] Sustainable Vegetation Measurement
Q.38) Who has recently assumed the charge as official Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
spokesperson?
[A] Dinesh K. Tripathi
[B] Jasjit Singh
[C] Arindam Bagchi
[D] Randhir Jaiswal
[E] Amrit Pandey
Q.39) Quality Council of India (QCI) and Khadi Village and Industries Commission
(KVIC) have signed an MoU to introduce made in India labelled khadi merchandise. In which
year Khadi Village and Industries Commission (KVIC) was established?
[A] 1976
[B] 1982
[C] 1957
[D] 1961
[E] 1975
Q.40) _._ sas been appointed as the Chairman of Federation of Associations in

Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH).
[A] Puneet Chhatwal
[B] Deep Kalra
[C] Inder Sharma
[D] Ajay Bhatt
[E] Nakul Sahoo
Q.41) Union Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah has launched ‘e-samridhi portal’, developed
by- National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) and National
Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Limited (NCCF). What is the primary purpose of
January 2024
the ‘e-samridhi portal’?
[A] To provide financial assistance to farmers
[B] To provide a platform for the procurement and payment of tur dal
[C] To facilitate grievance redressal of the cooperative farmers
[D] To provide unified platform for milk procurement by dairies
[E] To provide platform for crop insurance and subsidies
Q.42) recently, 3 varieties of handloom sarees in West Bengal and 7 products from Odisha
have received Geographical Indication (Gl) tag. GI tag is regulated and guided by the World
Trade Organization's Agreement on TRIPS. What is the full form of TRIPS?
[A] Transnational Regulations for Intellectual Property Standards

[B] Treaty Respecting Intellectual Property Safeguards
[C] Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights
[D] Trade Rules on Intellectual Property Security
[E] Technology Rights and Intellectual Property Standards
Q.43) Which state has recently launched 2 governance portals namely Report Management
Portal (RMP) and Meeting Management Portal (MMP) to revolutionise communication,
decision-making and data management within the government?
[A] Assam
[B] Punjab
[C] Telangana
[D] Himachal Pradesh
[E] Uttar Pradesh
Q.44) Reserve Bank of India has recently directed Regulated entities (REs) and their Internal
Ombudsmen (IOs) to ensure that a final decision is communicated to customers within a period
of__ CCF thee date of
[A] 15 days, receipt of complaint
[B] 21 days, receipt of complaint
[C] 14 days, redressal of complaint
[D] 21 days, redressal of complaint
[E] 30 days, receipt of complaint
Q.45) Recently, State Bank of India has raised ___

through Green Bonds to finance
green projects. It has raised amount through senior unsecured Green floating rate, referred to
as
[A] $250 million, Green Notes
[B] $150 million, P-notes
January 2024 176

[C] $200, ESG Bond
[D] $300, Sustainable Bond
[E] $250, SDG Notes
Q.46) Economy of India is projected to grow at____in the ongoing financial year, as per
the initial advance estimate report released by the National Statistical Office
(NSO).
[A] 8.5%
[B] 7.3%
[C] 8.9%
[D] 6.9%
[E] 7%
Q.47) National Statistical Office (NSO) acts as the nodal agency under the Ministry of Statistics
and Programme Implementation for planned development of the statistical system in the
country. It consists Central Statistical Office (CSO), the computer center and the
(NSSO).
[A] National Statistics Survey Office

[B] National Social Statistic Organization
[C] Numerical Statistics and Survey Organization
[D] National Sample Survey Office
[E] National Sampling and Statistical Oversight date
Q.48) Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has announced ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar'’
2023. Which entity has been awarded Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar 2023 under
‘Encouragement to sports through Corporate Social Responsibility’ category?
[A] Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation
[B] Rajasthan Mining and Geology Department
[C] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
[D] Odisha Mining Corporate Limited
[E] Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority
Q.49) Which of the following awards is not included among the six core awards that make up
the National Sports Awards of India?
[A] Arjuna Award
[B] Major Dhyan Chand Award
[C] Major Dnyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
[D] Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award
[E] Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy
January 2024
Q.50) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has appointed G Ram Mohan Rao as
Executive Director for 3 years. Which among the following is not a function of SEBI?
[A] Safeguarding the interests of Indian investors

[B] Regulation of forex markets
[C] Facilitating the development and seamless functioning of the securities market
[D] Regulate the business operations within the securities market
[E] Monitoring company takeovers and acquisition of shares
Q.51) The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) manages infrastructure
investment funds for both international and Indian investors, with the Government of India as its
anchor. It was introduced in the budget of ____——————_—, and the Central government holds
_____ sd ownership in the fund.
[A] 2016-17, 51%
[B] 2015-16, 49%
[C] 2017-18, 51%
[D] 2016-17, 49%
[E] 2019-20, 51%
Q.52) Canara Bank chief general manager P Santhosh has been appointed as Chief
Executive Officer of National Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd. (NARCL). NARCL has been
incorporated under the Companies Act as an Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC).
have 51% ownership in NARCL and It was established in
[A] Public Sector Banks, 2020

[B] Central Government & State Governments, 2020
[C] Public Sector Banks, 2021
[D] Private Sector Banks, 2019
[E] Central Government, 2021
Q.53) The memoir penned by the former Army chief, General Manoj Mukund Naravane, is titled
[A] India’s Most Fearless

[B] Four Stars of Destiny
[C] Leadership
[D] Stepping Beyond Boundary Lines
[E] Galwan: Battle for the Homeland
January 2024
oO
Q.54) Monetary policy refers to the policy of the central bank with regard to the use of
monetary instruments under its control to achieve the goals specified in the Act. Currently, RBI
Act, 1934 also provides for the inflation target of to be set by the Government of India, in
consultation with the Reserve Bank, once in every years.
[A] (5% +-1%), 2

[B] (6% +-3%), 4
[C] (4% +2%), 5
[D] (5% +-2%), 3
[E] (4% +-2%), 5
Q.55) Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary S Krishnan has
launched, newly developed integrated web portal of India for educational institutes in the
country to offer domain registration, DNS and value-added services.
[A] ARPNET
[B] ERNET
[C] DIGINET
[D] EDUFI
[E] TELEFI
Q.56) Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched refreshed
‘PAiSA’ Portal and ‘PM SVANidhi Portal’ at a seminar on 'Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC)
for Street Vendors’. What does PAiSA acronym stand for?
[A] Portal for Affordable Insurance and Subsidized Advances
[B] Progressive Assistance in Securing Affordable Loans
[C] Portal for Affordable Instalments and Subsidized Advances
[D] Program for Affordable Interest Subsidy and Assistance
[E] Portal for Affordable Credit and Interest Subvention Access
Q.57) Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated the
Ist Healthy & Hygienic Food Street of country, __._-—~————s at Neelkanth Van, Mahakal Lok, in
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
[A] NAIVEDYAM
[B] PRASADAM
[C] CHARANAMRIT
[D] ARCHANA
[E] MAHAPRASAD
January 2024
Q.58) Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made mandatory machine-to-machine
(M2M) and Wireless Personal Area Network/ Wireless Local Area Network (WPLAN/WLAN)
registration to all entities. Entities can register with DoT through a simple and transparent online
process via which portal?
[A] AnuvaadSanchar Portal
[B] SaralSanchar Portal
[C] DigiLAN Portal
[D] WPA Connect Portal
[E] Twarit Sampark Portal
Q.59) Which state government has launched ‘Baayu’, India's 100% electric bike taxi service to
improve the air quality and public health of cities by deploying electric vehicles in transport and
logistics sector?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Assam
[E] Mizoram
Q.60) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has released____———_—sito
check common food adulterations at home with simple tests.
[A] Culinary Chronicle
[B] The DART Book
[C] The Swift Guidebook
[D] TEST book
[E] The CARE book
Q.61) Recently, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has relaxed
norms on investment in infrastructure debt funds (IDFs) of non-banking financial companies
(NBFCs) by insurance companies. As per the new relaxed norms Debt securities will have a
residual tenure of not less than
[A] 2 years
[B] 10 years
[C] 5 years
[D] 15 years
[E] 15 years
Q.62) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully tested a fuel cell that uses
and to generate electricity and releases heat and water as
January 2024 180

byproducts.
[A] carbon, oxygen
[B] oxygen, lithium
[C] hydrogen, oxygen
[D] hydrogen, oxygen
[E] lithium, germanium
Q.63) On which date, Earth's Rotation Day is observed to mark the anniversary of French
physicist Leon Foucault's 1851 proof that the Earth rotates on its axis?
[A] November 9
[B] January 8
[C] December 5
[D] January 5
[E] December 31
Q.64) has won United cup 2024 title by defeating Poland in finals held in
Sydney, Australia.
[A] Spain
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] France
[E] Germany
Q.65) Indian Olympic Association (l1OA) has appointed former Indian Premier League official
Raghuram lyer as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IOA. In which year Indian Olympic
Association was established?
[A] 1965
[B] 1927
[C] 1935
[D] 1951
[E] 1971
Q.66) Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has approved the
comprehensive scheme “PRITHvi Vigyan (PRITHVI)" of Ministry of Earth Sciences to
strengthen and maintain continuous observations of the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere,
cryosphere, and solid earth to monitor vital Earth System indicators and changes. The scheme
will be implemented during the period from ____?
[A] 2021-2026
[B] 2023-2028
January 2024 181

[C] 2024-2028
[D] 2023-2026
[E] 2024-2027
Q.67) Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to declare____——=——ESSSin Uttar Pradesh
as an International Airport and naming it as “Maharishi Valmiki International Airport”.
[A] Kushinagar Airport
[B] Varanasi Airport
[C] Ayodhya Airport
[D] Agra Airport
[E] Lucknow Airport
Q.68) Which state has inaugurated the ‘International Kite Festival 2024' in which 153
international kite flyers from 55 countries, 68 national kite flyers from 12 states of India are
participating?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Telangana
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Rajasthan
[E] Gujarat
Q.69) Recently (in the month of January), Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the
minimum capital requirement for Small Finance Banks (SFBs) from to Rs
to improve the financial resilience of SFBs and ensure their long- term
sustainability.
[A] Rs 200 crore, Rs 500 crore
[B] Rs 300 crore, Rs 500 crore
[C] Rs 100 crore, Rs 200 crore
[D] Rs 50 crore, Rs 100 crore
[E] Rs 200 crore, Rs 400 crore
Q.70) Which 3 states have collectively contributed nearly 40% of all registered micro, small
and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India, as per a CBRE-CREDAI report?
[A] Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka
[C] Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra
[D] Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh
[E] Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh
January 2024 182

Q.71) Income inequality has declined in India during FY14-FY22 as per the report of Economic
Research Department of the State Bank of India published recently (in the month of January).
Which of the following measures the degree of income equality in a population?
[A] Philips curve
[B] Lorenz curve
[C] Gini coefficient
[D] Laffer curve
[E] Coefficient of variation
Q.72) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched 5 payloads to soft
land on the surface of ___————C AlOar'd Peregrine Mission One (PM1).
[A] Moon
[B] Asteroid Bennu
[C] Mars
[D] Lagrange point1
[E] Saturn
Q.73) Which movie has won Best Motion Picture (Drama) in 81st edition of Golden Globe
Awards (2024) held on 8th January, 2024 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California,
United States of America (U.S.A.)?
[A] Killers of the Flower Moon
[B] Poor Things
[C] Oppenheimer
[D] Anatomy of a Fall
[E] American Fiction
Q.74) On which day Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day) is celebrated to mark
the return of Mahatma Gandhi on the same date from South Africa in 1915?
[A] October 31
[B] December 18
[C] December 15
[D] January 5
[E] January 9
Q.75) Union Cabinet has approved the MoU signed between Indian Railways and the United
States Agency for International Development to support Indian Railways to achieve Net Zero
Carbon Emission by
[A] 2025
[B] 2027
January 2024 183

[C] 2024
[D] 2035
[E] 2030
Q.76) 1st Inland Waterways Development Council (IDWC) chaired by the Union Minister of
India, Sarbananda Sonowal has committed _____ crore for development of River Cruise
Tourism.
[A] Rs 55,000
[B] Rs 60,000
[C] Rs 45,000
[D] Rs 38,000
[E] Rs 48,000
Q.77) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a

specialized agency of the United Nations. is set to chair and host 46th session of
UNESCO's World Heritage Committee in___ Ss from 21st to 31st July 2024.
[A] USA, New York
[B] France, Paris
[C] India, New Delhi
[D] Japan, Tokyo
[E] China, Shanghai
Q.78) Which state government has launched ‘Yogyasree’ scheme for Scheduled
Caste/Scheduled Tribes students to provide training for various entrance and competitive
exams?
[A] Karnataka
[B] West Bengal
[C] Maharashtra
{[D] Rajasthan
[E] Gujarat
Q.79) Recently (in the month of January), Indian Overseas Bank has introduced ‘Savings
Account Portability Online’ to offer an easier savings account portability process for customers
who move to different locations. Where is the headquarters of Indian Overseas Bank is
located?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Mumbai
[C] Chennai
> )
January 2024
[D] New Delhi
[E] Kolkata
Q.80) Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) has launched

assault rifle for Indian Army to meet the Indian Army's 'GSQR' (General Staff Qualitative
Requirement) of a rifle weighing less than 4 kg.
[A] Prabal
[B] Tej
[C] Ghatak
[D] Ugram
[E] Rakshak
Q.81) Union Minister Piyush Goyal has inaugurated the ____—__— exhibition to showcase
vibrant and diverse food ecosystem of India in India Exposition Mart, Greater Noida.
[A] Indus Food 2024
[B] Food Fest 2024
[C] APEDA Expo 2024
[D] Regional Food Haat 2024
{E] Cultural Cuisine Expo
Q.82) Recently (in the month of January), Swedish researchers have developed
soil to enhance plant growth by stimulating root systems which has helped barley seedlings
grow an average of 50% more in a new study.
[A] Organic
[B] Advanced
[C] Engineered
[D] Environmental
[E] Electronic
Q.83) On Which date ‘World Hindi Day 2024’ to marks the commemoration of the first time
Hindi was spoken in the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) in 1949?
[A] January 10
[B] December 22
[C] January 12
[D] December 18
[E] February 2
Q.84) Odisha government has signed an MoU with National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
to set up new Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility to produce and
lanuarv 2024
January 202
in Ganjam District, Odisha.
[A] Lumpy skin disease, ENT Vaccines
[B] Lumpy skin disease, Anthrax
[C] Avian botulism, ENT Vaccines
[D] Anthrax, ENT Vaccines
[E] Foot and mouth disease, Avian botulism
Q.85) National Dairy Development Board is a statutory body set up by National Dairy
Development Board Act, ____ of the Parliament of India.
[A] 1999
[B] 1988
[C] 1987
[D] 2003
[E] 2001
Q.86) Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest &
Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has launched the 5th training program under the Amrit Dharohar
Capacity Building Scheme in.
[A] Loktak Lake, Manipur

[B] Chilika Lake, Odisha
[C] Bhoj Wetland, Madhya Pradesh
[D] Pong Dam Lake, Himachal Pradesh
[E] Lonar Lake, Maharashtra
Q.87) Amrit Dharohar Schemet was launched to highlight the importance of local communities
in conserving the wetland ecosystem and to promote their unique conservation values. It was
announced in in the union budget of which year?
[A] 2021-2022
[B] 2019-2020
[C] 2023-2024
[D] 2020-2021
[E] 2022-2023
Q.88) Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has submitted proposals for
Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands for cities of,
and
[A] Srinagar, Indore, Nainital
January 2024 186

[B] Nainital, Bhopal, Srinagar
[C] Jabalpur, Gwalior, Jaipur
[D] Gwalior, Jaipur, Udaipur
[E] Indore, Bhopal, Udaipur
Q.89) Which state has become the first state to map accident black spots as part of the Road
Safety to elevate the overall safe driving experience on roads?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Mumbai
[C] Punjab
[D] New Delhi
[E] Kolkata
Q.90) ___ sas announced the launch of 1st Growth Liquid Exchange-Traded Fund
(ETF) of India to primarily invests in TREPS (Treasury Bills Repurchase) traded on CCIL
(Clearing Corporation of India Limited) platform.
[A] Zerodha Fund House
[B] SBI Mutual Fund
[C] ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund
[D] HDFC Mutual Fund
[E] Nippon India Mutual Fund
Q.91) World Bank has kept GDP growth of India in FY25 (2024-2025) estimate unchanged at
in its biannual ‘Global Economic Prospects’ report. Further, estimated growth in FY26
(2025-26) is ‘
[A] 6.8%, 7.1%
[B] 6.4%, 6.5%
[C] 5.9%, 6.2%
[D] 6.2%, 6.5%
[E] 5.9%, 6.4%
Q.92) Recently (in the month of January), Karnataka Bank has partnered with fintech company
Digivriddhi (DGV) to offer financial services catering to the needs of dairy farmers and milk
societies. Where is the headquarters of Karnataka Bank is located?
[A] Mysuru
[B] Mangalore
[C] Hubballi
[D] Bengaluru
[E] Udupi
January 2024 187

Q.93) Indian Navy's (IN) P8lI aircraft has participated in the ongoing 4th edition of the anti-
submarine warfare (ASW) ___
CSCSCSCSCSCfr'om
ss January 10th to January 22nd, 2024 at
Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, United States of America (USA).
[A] Exercise Bright Star 24
[B] Exercise Malabar 24
[C] Exercise Sea Dragon 24
[D] Rim of the Pacific Exercise 24 (RIMPAC 24)
[E] Exercise Joint Warrior 24
Q.94) Senior diplomat of India, Indra Mani Pandey has assumed the position of Secretary
General (SG) of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Which among the following is not a member of BIMSTEC?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Bhutan
[C] Nepal
[D] Vietnam
[E] Thailand
Q.95) On which date National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is observed?

[A] December 18
[B] January 11
[C] December 28
[D] October 25
[E] January 5
Q.96) Recently (In the month of January), Henley Passport Index 2024 Global Ranking has
been released by Henley and Partners. In the ranking, Indian passport has been ranked
by providing visa-free or visas on arrival access to
[A] 80th, 62 countries
[B] 84th, 60 countries
[C] 78th, 82 countries
[D] 92th, 50 countries
[E] 98th, 55 countries
Q.97) India has surpassed Taiwan in the MSCI Emerging Markets index, securing the 2nd
position after China. What is MSCI Emerging Markets Index?
[A] It is an index which captures large and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging
Markets (EM) countries
January 2024 188

[B] It is an index which captures small and mid-cap representation across 14 Emerging
[C] It is an index which captures large and mid-cap representation across 16 Emerging
[D] It is an index which captures small and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging
[E] It is an index which captures small and mid-cap representation across 16 Emerging
Q.98) Which state has been emerged overall champion in the 1st ever Beach Games held in
Diu?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Uttar Pradesh
[E] Karnataka
Q.99) President Droupadi Murmu has honoured the 4 winners of Tenzing Norgay National
Adventure Award (TNNAA) 2022 during the Sports and Adventure Award 2023 event held in
Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. Who has won the award under Air adventure category?
[A] Tulsi Chaitanya Mothukuri
[B] Parveen Singh
[C] MS Savita Kanswal
[D] Anshu Kumar Tiwari
[E] Prabal Sisodia
Q.100) National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) project has
introduced a mobile app ____———S—S—S—S—SSS———_ to. track arnd monitor fish diseases across the
country.
[A] Report Fish Disease
[B] Declare Marine Disease
[C] Detect Fish Disease
[D] Monitor Aquatic Health
[E] Fish Disease Tracker
Q.101) Who has received the award for International Sports Personality of the Year at the
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards ceremony in Dubai, United Arab
Emirates?
[A] Hasan Arat
[B] Sebastian Coe
January 2024 189

[C] Gianni Infantino
[D] Abby Hoffman
[E] Jackson Tuwei
Q.102) On which date, National Youth Day is observed to mark the birth anniversary of Swami
Vivekananda?
[A] January 18
[B] January 12
[C] December 18
[D] December 12
[E] October 25
Q.103) Recently (in the month of January), a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been
signed between India and___——SSSSS—S—S—
On Conduct of bilateral international cadet exchange
programme.
[A] U.K.
[B] USA
[C] Japan
[D] Russia
[E] Australia
Q.104) India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to transform the financial landscape of rural
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttar Pradesh
[E] Rajasthan
Q.105) Indian Navy has received___—————S—S—CS (alco KNtOWn. ass Elbit Hermes 900), 1st
indigenously manufactured Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
(UAV).
[A] Aerial 10 Nomad
[B] Vaayu 10 Voyager
[C] Akash 10 Explorer
[D] Drishti 10 Starliner
[E] Sky Seeker 10 Pathfinder
January 2024 190

Q.106) Indian Army Day is observed on January 15 to remember General (later Field Marshal)
KM Cariappa taking over the command of Indian Army from General Sir FRR Bucher, the last
British Commander-in-Chief in 1949. Indian Army will observe the year 2024 as the
[A] Year of Intensive Training

[B] Year of Zero Tolerance Towards Terrorism
{C] Year of Indigenization
[D] Year of Technology Absorption
[E] Year of Global Collaboration
Q.107) ___ sas bECOMe the 1st ISO 27001:2022 certified petrochemical
organisation in the industry by BSI (British Standards Institution), after it has demonstrated its
ability to protect sensitive information and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability
of valuable data and systems.
[A] Manali Petrochemicals Ltd
[B] Panama Petrochem Ltd
[C] Goa Carbon Limited
[D] Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd
[E] Kothari Petrochemicals Ltd
Q.108) ___ in Maharashtra has become ‘st first Dark Sky Park of India and the
Sth in Asia, protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution.
[A] Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
[B] Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
[C] Pench Tiger Reserve
[D] Nawegaon Nagzira Tiger Reserve
[E] Sahayadri Tiger Reserve
Q.109) International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a report titled "World Employment
and Social Outlook: Trends 2024". The report predicts an increase in the global unemployment
rate to in year 2024 as compared to______in year 2023.
[A] 6.3%, 6.5%
[B] 5.2%, 5.1%
[C] 5.9%, 6.2%
[D] 6.4%, 5.9%
[E] 6.4%, 6.1%
Q.110) Indian economy is expected to surpass ____in the financial year 2024-25 and
reach____———__sébyy the financial year 2026-27, according to a report by PHD Chamber of
Commerce and Industry (PHDCC)).
January 20 24 191
[A] USD 4 trillion, USD 6 trillion
[B] USD 4 trillion, USD 5 trillion
[C] USD 3 trillion, USD 4 trillion
[D] USD 3 trillion, USD 5 trillion
[E] USD 2 trillion, USD 4 trillion
Q.111) Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched

scheme to develop 4 million Self-Help-Group (SHG) women as rural micro-entrepreneurs and
help them become lakhpati baidos (elder sister).
[A] Gram Panchayat Kisan Samriddhi Abhiyan
[B] Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan
[C] Mahila Udhyam Abhiyaan
[D] Women Startup Scheme
[E] Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyam Nidhi
Q.112) State Bank of India (SBI) has launched the SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD)
scheme to mobilise funds for environment-friendly initiatives and projects, and to support the
growth of a green finance ecosystem in India. Who is the current Chairman of SBI?
[A] RK Chhibber
[B] Partha Pratim Sengupta
[C] Padmaja Chunduru
[D] Dinesh Kumar Khara
[E] Mrutyunjay Mahapatra
Q.113) Recently (in the month of January) Indian Bank has partnered with FPL Technologies,
NPCI, and VISA to launch the ‘Indian Bank One Co-Branded Credit Card’. What is the full form
of NPCI?
[A] National Payment Corporation of India
[B] National Pension Contribution Institute
[C] Non-Performing Credit Institution
[D] National Payment Clearing Corporation of India
[E] National Payment Commission of India
Q.114) Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) to establish a wholly-owned finance company at the International Financial Services
Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat.
[A] Gujarat Indian Finance Tec-City
[B] Gujarat International Financial Tec-City
{C] Gujarat International Finance Tec-City
lanuarv 202
January 202
[D] Gujarat Information Finance Tec-City
[E] Gujarat Internationalized Finance Tec-City
Q.115) International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a report titled "World Employment
and Social Outlook: Trends 2024". It was established as a part of the______————_—sthaat
ended World War |, to reflect the belief that universal and lasting peace can be accomplished
only if it's based on social justice.
[A] Treaty of Westphalia
[B] Treaty of Versailles
[C] North Atlantic Treaty
[D] Helsinki Accords
[E] Potsdam Agreement
Q.116) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted a successful
flight-test of the ______————Ss missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off
the coast of Odisha.
[A] BrahMos
[B] Agni-5 Prime
[C] New Generation AKASH
[D] Dhanush New Generation
[e Nirbhay Ballistic Missile
Q117) ___ Cas released a report on 'Engendering Land Ports in India' in New
Delhi to develop a framework for gender inclusive cross border trade and tourism through land
Ports in the country.
[A] Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
[B] Shipping Corporation of India
[C] Land Ports Authority of India
[D] Central Inland Water Transport Corporation Limited
[e Sagarmala Development Company Limited
Q.118) Ministry of Rural Development and State Bank of India have signed a memorandum of
understanding (MoU) to facilitate enterprise financing for rural self-help groups (SHG). Under
the MoU, a financial product called___ CSS, Specifically designed for women
entrepreneurs in self-help groups (SHGs).
[A] Samman Rin
[B] Svyam Siddha
[C] Vyapaar Rin
January 2024 193

[D] Svyam Sahay
[e Vyapaar Mitra
Q.119) State Bank of India (SBI) has launched the SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD)
scheme to mobilise funds for environment-friendly initiatives and projects, and to support the
growth of a green finance ecosystem in India. It offers investors the flexibility to choose from
distinct tenors.
[A] Three
[B] Two
[C] Four
[D] Six
[e Five
Q.120) Headquarters of International Labour Organization (ILO) is located at which place?

[A] Washington DC, USA
[B] London, UK
[C] Paris, France
[D] Geneva, Switzerland
[e New York, USA
Q.121) Recently (In the month of January), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has
launched the 'New SolarPower Scheme' with an outlay of Rs 515 crore for electrification in
habitations and villages of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG). This scheme is
launched under which important programme.
[A] Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana
[B] Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Abhiyan (PM- JANMAN)
[C] Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (PMJVM)
[D] Pradhan Mantri Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana
[E] Eklavya Model Scheme
Q.122) Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri
Nhava Sheva Atal Setu has been inaugurated. It is longest sea bridge covering 21.8 km out of
which 16.5 km is over the sea link. It connects which two places?
[A] Worli to Mumbai
[B] Mumbai to Pune
[C] Mumbai to Navi Mumbai
[D] Bandra to Worli
[E] Navi Mumbai to Pune
January 2024 194

Q.123) _____sihas started a new project called "Green Fuels Alliance India" to strengthen
teamwork between India and itself in the field of sustainable energy
solutions.
[A] USA
[B] Denmark
[C] United Kingdom
[D] France
[E] Japan
Q.124) Which country has recently launched new satellite 'Einstein Probe' shaped like a lotus
to observe violent cosmic phenomena in the universe that flicker like fireworks.
[A] China
[B] Japan
[C] France
[D] USA
[E] Germany
Q.125) Over 24.8 crore people moved out of poverty in India in nine years as per recently
released NITI Aayog's Multidimensional Poverty Index. National multidimensional poverty
measures simultaneous deprivations across three equally weighted dimensions
of____ , and standard of living that are represented by 12 sustainable development
goals-aligned indicators.
[A] Income, life expectancy
[B] Health, Income
[C] Life expectancy, inequality
[D] Income, inequality
[E] Health, education
Q.126) ____sihas topped the list with 5.94 crore people escaping poverty in NITI Aayog
Multidimensional Poverty Index.
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Bihar
[D] Uttar Pradesh
[E] Punjab
Q.127) Which agency has released "Renewables 2023" report in which India is expected to add
203 GW of renewable capacity?
January 2024 4 195

[A] Council for Environmental Quality
[B] International Energy Agency
[C] International Solar Alliance
[D] World Bank
[E] Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
Q.128) UBS Securities India Private Limited has reduced the growth of the Indian
economy for the financial year 2024-25 (FY25) to from 6.3%.
[A] 5.9%
[B] 6.1%
[C] 6.2%
[D] 5.8%
[E] 5.7%
Q.129) Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Japan Coast Guard (JCG) have conducted a 5- day
annual joint exercise, =, Of f the Coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
[A] Sahyog Kaijin
[B] NATPOLREX-IX
[C] DOSTI
[D] JIMEX 23
[E] Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX)
Q.130) President of India, Droupadi Murmu has conferred Swachh Survekshan awards 2023 at
Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Which city has been awarded as cleanest Ganga town?
[A] Varanasi
[B] Haridwar
[C] Rishikesh
[D] Prayagraj
[E] Kolkata
Q.131) National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and__________ have
launched a compendium in New Delhi featuring the field stories showcasing the use of millets
in Asian and African countries.
[A] World Food Programme (WFP)
[B] Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)
[C] World Bank
[D] United Nations Standing Committee on Nutrition (UNSCN)
[E] International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
January 2024 196

Q.132) Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation (MoSPI), Rao Inderjit Singh has launched the MPLADS in New
Delhi.
[A] e-SAMARTH Mobile Application
[B] e-SUMPOORN Mobile Application
[C] e-SAKSHI Mobile Application
[D] e-SAKSHI Mobile Application
[E] e-SAKSHAM Mobile Application
Q.133) DLabs at the Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad, Telangana, has introduced a
startup accelerator program called____————S—S—Sto. bridge gasp between financial services
and informal economy.
[A] Build for India
[B] Build in India
[C] Build for Billions
[D] Build for World
[E] Make for India
Q.134) Recently, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has allowed investors to freeze
or block their trading account any suspicious activity is detected. Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI) has directed stock brokerages to lay out a framework on this by
and implement it from , 2024.
[A] February 1, April1
[B] March 1, May1
[C] April 1, July 1
[D] July 1, September1
[E] August 1, October1
Q.135) US aircraft maker Boeing has announced the opening of a warehousing facility at
in Uttar Pradesh for parts supply.
[A] Tundla
(B] Kanpur
[C] Mahoba
[D] Khurja
[E] Aligarh
Q.136) Recently (in the month of January), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a
proposal to launch a Group (Term) Insurance Scheme for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs)
engaged by Border Roads Organisation/General Reserve Engineer Force for the ongoing
project works. Scheme will provide the insured value of as an insurance in any kind of
death to CPLs family/Next of Kin.
[A] Rs 12 lakh
[B] Rs 8 lakh
[C] Rs 5 lakh
[D] Rs 15 lakh
[E] Rs 10 lakh
Q.137) Defence Research & Development Organisation has started development trials of
indigenous light tank
[A] Bhishma
[B] Zorawar
[C] Arjuna
[D] Karna
[E] Lion
Q.138) Recently (in the month of January) Central Government has signed an agreement to
acquire five lithium brine blocks for exploration and development in
[A] Mexico
[B] Argentina
[C] USA
[D] Bolivia
[E] Chile
Q.139) National Startup Awards 2023 have been announced on the occasion of National
Startup Day on 16 January. Which state has been awarded as the best performer award in
category B states (population less than 1 crore)?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Goa
[D] Manipur
[E] Tripura
Q140) Which company has successfully issued its inaugural Japanese Yen (JPY) 61.1 billion 5-
year, 5.25-year and 10-year green bonds, issued under its US$ 10 billion Global Medium Term
Notes Programme?
[A] ONGC
[B] BPCL
[C] RITES Limited
January 2024 198

[D] REC Limited
[E] Adani Green Energy Limited
Q.141) National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the ____——_initiative
to enhance efficiency of the Electronic Toll Collection system and provide
seamless movement at the Toll Plazas.
[A] 'One Country, One FASTag'

[B] 'Single Vehicle, Single FASTag'
[C] 'One Vehicle, One FASTag'
[D] 'Single Country, Single FASTag'
[E] 'One Country, Single FASTag'
Q.142) 1st National Highway Steel Slag Road of India section on NH- 66 Mumbai-Goa National
Highway has been inaugurated. Steel Slag Road Technology has been developed by CSIR-
Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI). Where is the headquarters of CSIR-CRRI located?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Kolkata
[D] Pune
[E] Gurugram
Q143) ___ sass Iaurnched first-of-its-kind Midcap Momentum Index Fund in unit
linked insurance plan (ULIP) segment.
[A] ICICI Prudentials
[B] Max Life
[C] HDFC Life
{D] Bajaj Allianz
{E] Aditya Birla Sun Life
Q.144) World Economic Forum Center for Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), 1st thematic
centre in India to focus on life sciences and healthcare will be set up in
[A] Hyderabad, Telangana
[B] Mumbai, Maharashtra
[C] Pune, Maharashtra
[D] Ahmedabad, Gujarat
[E] Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
Q.145) In the month of January 2024, has surpassed State Bank of India
(SBI) to become the most valued PSU firm of country by market valuation.
January > )
202 4 199
[A] Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
[B] Coal India Limited (CIL)
[C] Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
[D] Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
[E] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
Q.146) What is the rank of India in Global Firepower's 2024 rankings, which evaluates 145
nations on 60 factors, the rankings offer Detailed insights into military prowess?
[A] 3rd
[B] 2nd
[C] 4th
[D] 7th
[E] 5th
Q147) 225T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug named ___ has been launched by Commodore S.
Sreekumar, Warship Production Superintendent (Kolkata), at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd
(M/s TRSL) in Kolkata.
[A] Bhishm
[B] Buland
[C] Arjuna
[D] Zorawar
[E] Agraj
Q.148) Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy have conducted a maiden bilateral exercise, Named
[A] Ex Samudra Manthan

[B] Siam Bharat
[C] Maitree Exercise
[D] Ex-Ayutthaya
[E] CORPAT
Q.149) Who has won the Best FIFA Men's Player 2023 Award after beating Erling Haaland and
Kylian Mbappe to top prize?
[A] Mohamed Salah
[B] Harry Kane
[C] Robert Lewandowski
[D] Cristiano Ronaldo
[E] Lionel Messi
January 2024 200

Q.150) World Economic Forum is an international non-governmental organization for public-
private sector collaboration. Where is the headquarters of World Economic Forum located?
[A] USA
[B] Switzerland
[C] France
[D] Germany
[E] UK
Q.151) Central government has set up a high-level committee to examine the administrative
steps that can be taken to safeguard the interests of Scheduled Caste (SC) communities like
the Madigas and their sub-categorisation in the SC reservation. Who will head this committee?
[A] Rajiv Gauba
[B] Arvind Pangariya
[C] RK Singh
[D] Arjun Munda
[E] Lakshmi Naryain
Q.152) Recently (in the month of January), Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology (MeitY) has inaugurated Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent
Internet of Things (IloT) Sensors. In which state this Centre of Excellence is located?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Kerala
[D] Karnataka
[E] Uttar Pradesh
Q.153) Recently, 9th edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival, a state festival of Arunachal
Pradesh, has been celebrated at Seijosa in the Pakke Kessang district from January 18-20,
2024. Which tribe is associated with this festival?
[A] Momba tribe
[B] Mishmi tribe
[C] Nyishi tribe
[D] Singpho tribe
[E] Khampti tribe
Q.154) ______—_—srhas become the ‘st state in the country to launch a model for
“regenerative tourism” to redefine tourism by promoting environmental restoration, cultural
preservation, and community empowerment.
January 2024 201

[A] Rajasthan
[B] Kerala
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Goa
[E] Maharashtra
Q.155) In the month of January 2024 World Health Organization (WHO) has certified
as a malaria-free country, and it became the 3rd country to acquire the status
in the African region.
[A] Morocco
[B] Ghana
[C] Algeria
[D] Tanzania
[E] Cape Verde
Q.156) ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has introduced ICICI Pru Guaranteed Pension
Plan Flexi with ‘benefit enhancer’. Who is the current MD and CEO of ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance (in month of January 2024)?
[A] Anup Bagchi

[B] Vibha Padalkar
[C] Mahesh Balasubramanian
[D] Prashant Tripathy
[E] Ashish Vohra
Q.157) __ Chas emerged as the largest derivative exchange of world in 2023

by the number of contracts traded based on statistics published by Futures Industry
Association (FIA), a derivatives trade body.
[A] Shanghai Stock Exchange
[B] Hong Kong Stock Exchange
[C] London Stock Exchange
[D] Bombay Stock Exchange
[E] National Stock Exchange
Q.158) Unity Small Finance Bank Limited (Unity Bank) has collaborated with Uncia
Technologies Private Limited for its advance Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform
to facilitate efficient processing and accurate daily lending transactions
[A] Crypto Chain
[B] Uncia Chain
[C] Finance Chain
January 2024 202

[D] Signia Chain
[E] Unity Chain
Q.159) Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has invested 2486 Crore in Sustainable
Energy Infra Trust (SEIT) for project____————_of AIIB to support the development of
InviTs as an infrastructure asset class in India.
[A] India Solar Mission
[B] India: Project Meridian
[C] Project Sunrise
[D] India: Project Suryoday
[E] Project Horizon
Q.160) Jio has retained its position as the strongest Indian brand according to the latest
report 'Global-500 2024' published by Brand Finance. has been placed at the 23rd
place on the list, followed by at 24th rank.
[A] IRCTC, Mahindra

[B] HDFC, SBI
[C] HDFC, Mahindra
[D] LIC, SBI
[E] IRCTC, LIC
Q.161) has developed a 2nd generation ‘Distress Alert Transmitter

(DAT), incorporating advanced satellite communication and navigation capabilities to allow
fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from fishing boats and
get acknowledgement in real time.
[A] Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

[B] Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
[C] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
[D] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
[E] Raman Research Institute (RRI)
Q.162) India Meteorological Department is an agency of the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the
Government of India, and it is the principal agency responsible for meteorological
observations, weather forecasting and seismology. Recently, India Meteorological Department
(IMD) has observed 150th Year of its establishment on
[A] December 15
[B] January 18
[C] January 22
January 2024
[D] January 15
[E] December 28
Q.163) Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced__._—S_ Ss as thee
title sponsor for the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2024 to 2028.
[A] Dream 11
[B] TATA Group
[C] Vivo
[D] Pepsi
[E] DLF
Q.164) Board of Control for Cricket in India is the national governing body of Cricket in India.
Who is the current President of BCCI (as of January 2024)?
[A] Jay Shah
[B] Rahul Dravid
[C] Ravi Shastri
[D] Ajay Jadeja
[E] Roger Binny
Q.165) World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations
responsible for international public health. Where is the headquarters of WHO is located?
[A] Washington DC
[B] Paris
[C] London
[D] Geneva
[E] Rome
Q.166) India has been elected as the First Vice Chair of the Food and Agriculture Organization
FAO COFI Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management. India will serve as member of a FAO
Fisheries Bureau on___———————_sfoor the first time in 57 years.
[A] Inland Fisheries
[B] Capture Fisheries
[C] Culture Fisheries
[D] Marine Fisheries
[E] Recreational Fisheries
Q.167) Recently (in the month of January), Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has launched
first pilot project to make jet fuel from alcohol in
January 2024 204

[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Kolkata
[D] Pune
[E] Ahmedabad
Q.168) Kachchhi Kharek, indigenous dates of Kutch has become ____ fruit from Gujarat
to get GI tag.
[A] 4th
[B] Sth
[C] 1st
[D] 3rd
[E] 2nd
Q.169) Recently, 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 has been held from
10th to 12th January at Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar,
Gujarat, India. What was the theme for Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024?
[A] From Aatmanirbhar Gujarat to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
[B] Industry 4.0
[C] Gateway to the Future
[D] Towards Greener Future
[E] Gateway to Prosperity
Q.170) _____——SSS—srAnas become the 1st Indian bank to execute an export finance
transaction on the International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC
Limited (RXIL).
[A] Yes Bank
[B] SBI
[C] HDFC
[D] ICICI Bank
[E] Axis Bank
Q.171) Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has announced the launch of a non-linked,
non-participating, individual savings deferred annuity plan Jeevan Dhara-ll’. Who is the current
chairperson of LIC?
[A] Debasish Panda
[B] Pradip Kumar Das
[C] Deepak Mohanty
[D] Siddhartha Mohanty
[E] Sivasubramanian Ramann
5
January 2024
Q.172) _ sas Collaborated with IIM Ahmedabad to develop ‘Vision 2049'
to position itself as a globally recognised leader in the accounting profession.
[A] Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] Competition Commission of India
[D] Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry
[E] Solar Energy Corporation of India
Q.173) Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), has successfully landed Smart Lander for
Investigating Moon (SLIM) on surface of moon. Japan has become the nation to soft
land on lunar surface.
[A] 3rd
[B] 5th
[C] 2nd
[D] 4th
[E] 6th
Q.174) Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 has been announced. It is given to children
with exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements, and who are in the age group
for their excellence in seven categories.
[A] 5-18 years
[B] 6-18 years
[C] 5-21 years
[D] 8-21 years
[E] 6-16 years
Q.175) Recently (in the month of January), who has been appointed as the Director General
(DG) of Sashastra Seema Bal?
[A] Nina Singh
[B] Anish Dayal Singh
[C] Daljit Singh Chaudhary
[D] Rahul Rasgotra
[E] Sheel Vardhan Singh
Q.176) Union Minister Parshottam Rupala, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and
Dairying (MoFAHD) has virtually launched the project of depositing artificial reefs in the seabed
in , Kerala.
[A] Kottayam
January 2024 206

[B] Alappuzha
[C] Thiruvananthapuram
[D] Wayanad
[E] Kasaragod
Q.177) Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is a flagship scheme for focused and
sustainable development of the fisheries sector in the country with an estimated investment of
20,050 crore. The scheme was launched in which year?
[A] 2018
[B] 2020
[C] 2021
[D] 2019
[E] 2016
Q.178) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched____—S_—stto. provide Rooftop Solar
(RTS) power systems to 1 crore households. The scheme will provide electricity through solar
rooftop installations, along with offering additional income for surplus electricity generation.
[A] Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana
[B] Pradhanmantri Ujala Yojana
[C] Pradhanmantri Abhiyuday Yojana
[D] Pradhanmantri Solar Rooftop Scheme
[E] Pradhanmantri Harit Urja Yojana
Q.179) In which state, Prime Minister has inaugurated the new State-of-Art campus of the
National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN)?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Gujarat
[C] Karnataka
[D] Telangana
[E] Andhra Pradesh
Q180) Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated the opening ceremony of the Khelo
India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. What is the mascot of Khelo India Youth
Games 2023?
[A] Asha
[B] Ujjwala
[C] Veera Mangai
[D] Mowgli
[E] Jaya
January 2024
Q.181) Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new state-of-the-art Boeing India
Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC) campus in. It is built with an investment of Rs 1,600
crores, and is Boeing's largest such investment outside the USA.
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Madhya Pradesh
{E] Gujarat
Q.182) Which state government has launched the 'My School-My Pride' campaign under the
‘Apna Vidyalay' programme, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 to improve
the quality of education in government schools by fostering collaboration among various
stakeholders?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
[E] Uttar Pradesh
Q.183) CoRover Private Limited (

Corover.ai) has launched India's 1st indigenous Generative Al (GenAl) Large Language Model
(LLM) called_____. It is the only Indian Indigenous GenAl platform available across
channels in 14+ Indian languages.
[A] IndiaGPT
[B] BharatAl!
[C] KrutimAl
[D] BharatGPT
[E] IndiaChatAl
Q.184) Recently (in the month of January), Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2023:
Beyond Basics) report has been released by
[A] Smile Foundation
[B] Pratham
[C] Goonj
[D] Nanhi Kali
[E] CARE India
Q.185) Recently (in the month of January), 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces
has commenced at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal
January 2024
Pradesh. [a] Exercise KAZIND
[A] Exercise Tarkash
[B] Sada Tanseeg
[C] Desert Cyclone
[D] Exercise KHANJAR
Q.186) 9th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023 has been held in
Faridabad, Haryana from January 17th-20th, 2024. What is the theme for the event?
[A] Science and Technology for Rural Transformation
[B] Science and Technology for Atmanirbhar Bharat
[C] Science and Technology for Vision 2047
[D] Science and Technology Public Outreach in Amrit Kaal
[E] Science and Technology for Urban Transformation
Q.187) 5th International and 44th All India Criminology Conference has been held at National
Forensic Science University (NFSU) at
[A] Jaipur, Rajasthan

[B] Gandhinagar, Gujarat
[C] Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
[D] Mumbai, Maharashtra
[E] Hyderabad, Telangana
Q.188) Recently (in the month of January), External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has led
the Indian delegation to 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in, Kampala, Uganda.
Uganda has assumed the NAM chairmanship for.
[A] 2024-2029
[B] 2024-2025
[C] 2024-2028
[D] 2025-2028
[E] 2024-2027
Q.189) Which country in Africa has become the 1st country in the world to launch the RTS, S
malaria vaccine for children into its routine national immunisation services?
[A] Cameroon
[B] Ghana
[C] Kenya
January 202
[D] Angola
[E] Somalia
Q.190) Who has been awarded Polly Umrigar Award for Best Men's Cricketer of the Year in the
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Awards (Naman Awards) 2024 held in Hyderabad,
Telangana?
[A] Shubman Gil
[B] Ayush Badoni
[C] Tilak Varma
[D] Sai Sudarshan
[E] Yashasvi Jaiswal
Q.191) On which date, National Girl Child Day is observed to engage the nation in creating a
positive environment that values the girl child?
[A] January 24
[B] January 12
[C] December 25
[D] February 1
[E] December 31
Q192) Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel has reached Egypt to take part in the
2nd edition of India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise
[A] TRIUMPH
[B] AL-HIND
[C] TARKASH
[D] CYCLONE
[E] UDGHOSH
Q.193) External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has led the Indian delegation to 19th Non-
Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, which among the following statement is incorrect about
Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)?
[A] 1st NAM Summit Conference took place in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in September 1961
[B] More than 120 developing countries including India, Nepal, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and
Iran, among other have participated in the summit.
[C] NAM is a forum of 60 countries that are not formally aligned with or against any major
power bloc.
[D] It was formed during the Cold War as an organization of States that did not seek to
formally align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union, but sought to
remain independent or neutral
[E] | Former Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru was founding members of NAM.
A
January 202
Q.194) SBI Life Insurance has recently launched two products- ‘SBI Life - Saral Swadhan
Supreme’ and ‘SBI Life - Smart Swadhan Supreme’ to provide a life cover along with benefit of
the return of premiums at maturity. The scheme offers tax benefits as per the prevailing norms
under the Income Tax Act,
[A] 1969
[B] 1985
[C] 1976
[D] 1982
[E] 1961
Q.195) International Day of Education 2024 is observed on January 24, what is the theme for
the event?
[A] Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation
[B] Learning for Lasting Peace
[C] To Invest in People, Prioritize Education
[D] Changing Course, Transforming Education
[E] Learning for people, planet, prosperity and peace
Q.196) NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) and
have jointly launched the ‘Investment Forum for Advancing Climate
Resilient Agrifood Systems in India’ in New Delhi.
[A] UN World Food Programme (WFP)
[B] National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED)
[C] Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
[D] International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
[E] Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP)
Q197) Recently (in the month of January), Union Minister, Shri Pralhad Joshi has inaugurated
the second State Mining Ministers’ Conference in
[A] Jaipur, Rajasthan
[B] Gandhinagar, Gujarat
[C] Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
[D] Mumbai, Maharashtra
[E] Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Q.198) Recently (in the month of January), Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. has launched
Smart Wealth Annuity Guaranteed Pension Plan (SWAG Pension Plan). Where is the
headquarters of Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. is located?
January 2024 211

[A] Mumbai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Kolkata
[D] Hyderabad
[E] Bengaluru
Q.199) What is the maximum bid amount as per the circular released by Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI) summarizing the framework for offer for sale (OFS) of shares to
employees through stock exchanges such as BSE and NSE?
[A] 10 Lakh
[B] 2 Lakh
[C] 5 Lakh
[D] 4 Lakh
[E] 1 Lakh
Q.200) General Insurance Council, in consultation with all general and health insurance
companies has launched the____———S_sinitiative to provide to policyholders’ treatment
at any hospital of their choice even if the hospital is not part of the insurance company's
network
[A] Cashless Bharat
[B] Cashless India
[C] Cashless Everywhere
[D] Digital Payment
[E] Zero Cash
Q.201) Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the merger of Fincare Small
Finance Bank Limited (Fincare) and AU Small Finance Bank Limited (AU). Competition
Commission of India is a_______—_— within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is responsible
for enforcing the Competition Act,
[A] Constitutional body, 2005
[B] Statutory body, 2001
[C] Statutory body, 2002
[D] Constitutional body, 2003
[E] Constitutional body, 2002
Q.202) Indian Air Force (IAF) has conducted Exercise Desert_____ along with French Air
and Space Force (FASF) and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force.
[A] Triumph
[B] Knight
[C] Game
January 2024
[D] Cyclone
[E] Symposium
Q.203) Recently (in the month of January), Indian Army has opened the 'India Selfie Point'
near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The 'India Selfie Point’ has been
gifted by acclaimed artist
[A] Bhanu Palam
[B] Rouble Nagi
[C] Mazarine Memon
[D] Ganesh Haloi
[E] Paresh Maity
Q.204) In order to encourage more young voters to take part in the political process,
Government of India has celebrated 14th National Voters Day on 25 January. On this occasion
a short voter awareness film__._——SSS—CO#Pr'codduced by ECI in association with renowned
filmmaker Shri Raj Kumar Hirani has been screened.
[A] Celebrating Democracy
[B] My Vote My Duty
[C] Empowering through Votes
[D] Vote for India
[E] Young Democracy
Q.205) National Tourism Day is observed on January 25 to spread awareness about the
importance of tourism and its impact on the economy. What is the theme for National Tourism
Day 2024?
[A] Carbon-Neutral Memory Imprinting Retreat
[B] Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories
[C] Time-Traveling Ecotourism Expedition
[D] Eternal Life Photography Exhibition
[E] Aware Tourist, Safe Environment
Q.206) Recently (in the month of January), 63rd Central Geological Programming Board
(CGPB) meeting has been organized by Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of Mines has
been held on 22nd January 2024 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The headquarters of Geological
Survey of India (GSI) is located at
[A] Kolkata
[B] Hyderabad
[C] New Delhi
243
January 2024
[D] Mumbai
[E] Noida
Q.207) Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya M Scindia has inaugurated Largest
Aviation Expo of Asia “Wings India 2024" at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Telangana. The
theme for the event is-
[A] Advanced Air Mobility
[B] Flying for All
[C] Connecting India to the World in Amrit Kaal: Setting the Stage for India Civil Aviation
@2047
[D] India@75: New Horizon for Aviation Industry
[E] India-Global Aviation Hub: making India a Developed Economy by 2047
Q.208) In the recently held, 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), also
known as "Davos Summit 2024" from 15th to 19th January 2024, health industry leaders
discussed the importance of preplanning for the outbreak of a hypothetical
[A] Disease Alpha
[B] Disease X
[C] Disease omega
[D] Disease Z
[E] Disease Y
Q.209) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the timeline for complying
with rumour verification norms to_____———s—, 202.4 from the earlier deadline of February 1,
2024.
[A] September1
[B] April 31
[C] June 31
[D] Aoril 1
[E] June 1
Q.210) Who has been awarded with the esteemed ‘Freedom of the City of London’ award for
his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and public life?
[A] Priyank Kumar
[B] Ajit Mishra
[C] Uday Maheshwari
[D] Arpit Sardana
[E] Amrish Kumar
January 2024 214

Q.211) Which state has won best Tableaux in State Category winner of ‘Republic Day Parade
Awards 2024' on the occasion of 75th Republic Day parade awarded by Panel of Judges?
[A] Odisha
(B] Gujarat
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Gujarat
[E] Uttar Pradesh
Q.212) What is the theme of the Tableaux of Ministry of Culture which has won the award for
Best Tableaux in Ministries/Department Category?
[A] India: Melting pot of diverse culture
[B] India: Vibrant Democracy
[C] Bharat: Mother of Democracy
[D] Unity in Diversity
[E] Proud Democracy, Young Country
Q.213) Recently (in the month of January), Padma Awards 2024 have been announced. This
year Padma Vibhushan,____——Ss Padma Bhushan and _____—s Padma Shri Awards.
[A] 8, 16, 90
[B] 6, 12, 100
[C] 4,18, 120
[D] 5, 17, 110
[E] 6, 13, 100
Q.214) Who among the following is not a Padma Vibhushan awardee for the year 2024?
[A] Vyjayantimala Bali
[B] Konidela Chiranjeev
[C] M Venkaiah Naidu
[D] Bindeshwar Pathak
[E] Sitaram Jindal
Q.215) India has celebrated its 75th Republic Day on 26th January 2024. Who was the chief
guest for the event?
[A] Joe Biden
[B] Emmanuel Macron
[C] Rishi Sunak
[D] Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
[E] Anthony Albanese
15
January 2024
Q.216) Ministry of Rural Development has launched Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National
Rural Livelihoods Mission's (DAY-NRLM's) _______ app at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.
[A] LokOS
[B] SARATHI
[C] PRAHARI
[D] AGRANI
[E] SHAKTI
Q.217) World Bank (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, IBRD) has
introduced innovative 7-year USD 100 million plastic waste reduction-linked bond to tackle
plastic pollution. Which among the following is not a world bank group organization?
[A] International Development Association (IDA)
[B] International Finance Corporation (IFC)
[C] Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
[D] International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)
[E] Private Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF)
Q.218) In the month of January, Bank of Baroda’s wholly-owned subsidiary for cards, ‘BOB
Financial Solutions Limited’, has been rebranded as ‘BOBCARD Limited’. What is the new tagline
of BOBCARD Limited?
[A] Experience More, Spend Less
[B] Credit Reimagined
[C] Fuel Your Dreams, Not Debts
[D] Swipe with Confidence
[E] Your Credit, Your Control
Q.219) With which country India has recently conducted Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA
TANSEEQ' has commenced at Mahajan, Rajasthan?
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] UAE
[C] Qatar
[D] Jordan
[E] Israel
Q.220) On which date First-ever UN International Day of Clean Energy to raise awareness and
mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition to clean energy for the benefit of people and
the planet?
[A] December 28
January 202
[B] January 28
[C] January 26
[D] December 18
[E] November 18
Q.221) Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by
Mycobacterium leprae. The disease affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces
of the upper respiratory tract and the eyes. What was the theme for World Leprosy Day
observed on January 28, 2024?
[A] Eliminate Leprosy
[B] Defeat Leprosy
[C] Eradicate Leprosy
[D] Beat Leprosy
[E] Cure Leprosy
Q.222) Who has won ICC Men's Twenty20 International (T20I) Cricketer of the Year 2023 in
recently announced ICC Awards 2023?
[A] Richard Illingworth
[B] Usman Khawaja
[C] Virat Kohli
[D] Rachin Ravindra
[E] Suryakumar Yadav
Q.223) ___s*haass defeated Odisha FC in Kalinga Super Cup 2024 Final Fourth
edition of the 2024 Indian Super Cup (2024 Kalinga Super Cup) at the Kalinga Stadium in
Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
[A] East Bengal FC
[B] Goa FC
[C] Kerala Blasters FC
[D] Mohun Bagan FC
[E] Chennaiyin FC
Q.224) Recently, who has become the oldest man (at 43 years and 329 days) in the history of
Tennis to win a Grand Slam in Australian Open 2024?
[A] Matthew Ebden
[B] Rafael Ndal
[C] Daniil Medvedev
[D] Novak Djokovic
[E] Rohan Bopanna
January 2024
Q.125) ___—srhas won the men's singles title, _.._=~=~=~—~—_—soof Belarus won the
women's singles title at the Australian Open 2024.
[A] Jannik Sinner, Zheng Qinwen
[B] Daniil Medvedev, Aryna Sabalenka
[C] Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka
[D] Matthew Ebden, Andrea Vavassori
[E] Hsieh Su-wei, Jan Zielinsk
Solutions
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Q.2) B Q.52) Cc Q.102) B
Q.3) D Q.53) B Q.103) A
Q.4) E Q.54) E Q.104) E
Q.5) Cc Q.55) B Q.105) D
Q.6) Cc Q.56) E Q.106) D
Q.7) B Q.57) B Q.107) D
Q.8) B Q.58) B Q.108) G
Q.9) B Q.59) D Q.109) B
Q.10) B Q.60) B Q.110) B
Q.11) Cc Q.61) Cc Q.111) B
Q.12) B Q.62) D Q.112) D
Q.13) B Q.63) B Q.113) A
Q.14) D Q.64) E Q.114) c
Q.15) Cc Q.65) B Q.115) B
Q.16) A Q.66) A Q.116) c
Q.17) Cc Q.67) Cc Q.117) C
Q.18) B Q.68) E Q.118) B
Q.19) G Q.69) Cc Q.119) A
Q.20) D Q.70) A Q.120) D
Q.21) Cc Q.71) Cc Q.121) B
Q.22) A Q.72) A Q.122) CG
January 2024
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January 2024 220

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SPOTLIGHT

o Whatis Wheel Loader?

What is anti-dumping duty?

Source: Hindu Businessline

e Key highlights of the visit-

e About Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant-

o It was labelled a terrorist organisation and banned in India since 1990.

Source: India Today

e More about National Single Window System (NSWS)-

o It facilitates applications for the certificate of registration and licences to manufacture

e It works under Directorate General of Health Services,Ministry of Health & Family

e Headquarters- New Delhi

e Drug Controller General of India- Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi

Source: Business Standard, CDSCO

e Key points of amendments-

o Disbursement after Death:

« In case of the female government servant's or pensioner's death during the

e family pension is payable to the widower (acting as a guardian).

6. President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to two bills.

© It has replaced the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election

¢ Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill, 2023:

© Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is the concerned ministry overseeing the

o It focuses on bringing the registration and declaration process in line with

Source: The Hindu

o New deadline- May 31, 2024

o Old deadline- December 31, 2023

e Employees Provident Fund Organization is one of the World's largest Social

e It was established by the Employees’ Provident Funds Act, 1952.

e Headquarters- New Delhi

e Ministry- Ministry of Labour and Employment

e Central Provident Fund Commissioner- Neelam Shami Rao

e« About e-samridhi portal-

o Developed by- National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd.

© Portal is launched during national symposium organized on ‘Self-reliance in Pulses’.

e Itis an organisation of marketing cooperatives for agricultural produce, set up

e Objective- To promote co-operative marketing of agricultural produce that would

e Headquarters- New Delhi

e Chairman- Dr. Bijender Singh

9. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary S Krishnan has

e About ERNET India-

eo ERNET India is a not-for-profit scientific society under MeitY.

© To bring together key stakeholders to enhance their understanding of the legal

¢ About PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi)-

o Its objective includes providing working capital loan, incentivize regular

o Interest subsidy- On timely/early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy

o Launch date- March 24, 2020

e About PAiSA Portal-

o It is a centralised portal for the processing of interest subvention on bank

o Other initiatives launched-

12. Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made mandatory machine-to-machine

o Non-compliance may lead to withdrawal or disconnection of telecom resources.

About SaralSanchar Portal-

e ‘SARAL SANCHAR' ( Simplified Application For Registration and Licenses) is a

o Scheme comprises 5 ongoing sub-schemes-

» Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services

« Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)

« Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)

« Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT)

e Objectives of the Prithvi Scheme are:

°o To strengthen and maintain continuous observations of the atmosphere, ocean,

o Airport is named "Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham," in honor of

e United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a

e QObjective- Promoting world peace and security through international cooperation

e Headquarters- Paris, France