PIB 247 – 1st to 2nd December 2023

Q.1) Which organisation has launched ‘Zero Waste Life on Campus (Shoonya apashisht
Jeevan)’ program aimed at achieving sustainability through application and adoption of
knowledge and technologies?

[a] NITI Aayog

[b] BRIC

[c] DRDO

[d] NCERT

[e] NABARD

Answer: [b]
 Zero Waste Life on Campus Program
➢What: ‘Zero Waste Life on Campus (Shoonya apashisht Jeevan)’ program
has been launched on the occasion of first Society Meeting of
Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC).
About Zero Waste Life on Campus Program

• Objectives:
▪ To achieve sustainability through application and adoption of
knowledge and technologies
▪ To promote management models focused on co-responsibility, on
each BRIC campus.
• It is aligned with Mission LiFE (LiFEStyle For Environment).
• It will forge a new direction for research towards integrated waste
management by the community at large.
About BRIC

• It is a centralized organisation for unified governance to maximize impact

of biotech research across the country.
• Parent Ministry: Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and
Technology
• It serves as one apex autonomous society for promotion of Biotechnology
in the country.
• It has been established to rationalize DBT’s 14 top autonomous
institutions under it.
• NOTE: Each of the 14 subsumed BRIC Institutions will maintain their
distinct research mandates, governed by one Governing Body.
Q.2) Which Ministry supported by the All-India Football Federation and Sports Authority of
India is implementing Football for Schools (F4S) initiative of FIFA in India?

[a] Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs

[b] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

[c] Ministry of Women and Child Development

[d] Ministry of Education

[e] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Answer: [d]
 Football for Schools Initiative
➢What: Footballs were distributed recently in PM Shri Jawahar Navodaya
Vidyalaya in Mundali, Cuttack as part of the Football for Schools (F4S)
initiative of FIFA.
About F4S Initiative

• Objective: To contribute to the education, development, and

empowerment of around 700 million children across the world.
• It is initiative of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
• It seeks to make football more accessible to both boys and girls by
incorporating football activities into the education system, in partnership
with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
Implementation of F4S Initiative in India
• For its implementation, MoU was signed between the Ministry of
Education, AIFF and FIFA in October 2022.
• Nodal organisation of F4S programme in India: Jawahar Navodaya
Vidyalaya
▪ Under it, FIFA is contributing more than 11 lakh footballs for
distribution in various schools pan India.
▪ Total beneficiary Schools: 1.50 lakh schools
▪ 1st phase: 16 districts from 5 states (Odisha, Goa, Uttar Pradesh,
Maharashtra, and Kerala).
Q.3) Who amongst the following are not eligible to avail scholarship under Ministry of
Education’s National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme?

[a] Students having parental income of Rs. 5,50,000/- per annum from all sources

[b] Students having 45% marks or equivalent grade in Class VII examination

[c] Students of NVS, KVS and residential schools

[d] A and C

[e] A, B and C

Answer: [e]
 National Means-cum Merit Scholarship Scheme
➢What: Ministry of Education has notified last date for submission of
applications National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) for
the year 2023-24.
About NMMSS

• Objective: To award scholarships to meritorious students of economically

weaker sections to arrest their drop out at class VIII and encourage them
to continue their education at secondary stage.
• Launch Year: 2008
▪ It has been continued from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26 with total
allocation of Rs.1827 crores.
• Type: Central Sector Scheme.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education
• Amount of scholarship: Rs. 12000/- per annum.
Eligibility criteria for students
• Parental income from all sources is not more than Rs. 3,50,000/- per
annum.
• Must have minimum of 55% marks or equivalent grade in Class VII
examination for appearing in the selection test of scholarship
▪ It is relaxable by 5% for SC/ST students
• Students should be studying as regular student in a Government,
Government-aided and local body school.
• NOT Eligible: Students of NVS, KVS and residential schools.
 National Awards for the Empowerment of PwDs 2023
➢What: President Droupadi Murmu has conferred National Awards
National Awards for the Empowerment of PwDs (Divyangjan) 2023 on the
occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities

➢Why: To honour outstanding Persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) and

Individuals/organizations, who are working for the empowerment of
PwDs.
About Awards

• They are conferred every year by Ministry of Social Justice and

Empowerment on Individuals, Institutions, Organizations, State/District
etc.
• It recognises their outstanding achievements and work done towards
empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
2023 edition of awards are being given under following categories:

1. National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities-2023

Individual Excellence
• Sarvshrestha Divyangjan (awardees are below)
✓Satyaprakash Tiwari
✓Taha Indrees Haaziq
✓Vaibhav Sangle
✓Sunita Gupta
✓Swarnalatha Guruprasad
▪ Shrestha Divyangjan
✓ Locomotor Disability- (Locomotor, Muscular Disability. Dwarfism, Acid
Attack VictiSushri, Leprosy Cured, Cerebral Palsy)
✓ Visual Impairment - (Blindness, Low Vision)
✓ Hearing Impairment (Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Speech & Language
disability.
✓ Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation, Mental Behavior, Specific
Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder)
✓ Any specified disability except the disabilities not mentioned above
 ▪ Shrestha Divyang Bal/Balika
▪ Sarvshrestha Vyakti - Divyangjano Ke Sashaktikaran Ke Liye Karyarath
▪ Sarvshrestha Punarvas Peshevar (Rehabilitation Professional/ worker)
- Divyangatha Ke Kheshtra Mein Karyarath

2. National Award for Institutions engaged in Empowering Persons with

Disabilities-2023
Questions in Short
Q.4) Where has Ministry of Jal Shakti organized ‘Jal Itihas Utsav’ to raise public consciousness
about safeguarding water heritage sites, creating a sense of ownership among the masses as
well as promoting tourism and restoration of such heritage structures?

[a] Agra

[b] New Delhi

[c] Aurangabad

[d] Patna

[e] Ranchi

Answer: [b]
Q.5) PM Narendra Modi recently launched the program to increase the number of Jan
Aushadhi Kendras from 10,000 to 25,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi
Pariyojana. When will be this proposed target achieved?

[a] 31st March 2026

[b] 1st April 2025

[c] 15th August 2024

[d] 26th January 2026

[e] 2nd October 2025

Answer: [a]
Q.6) Which country is hosting the 4th edition of ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum?

[a] Vietnam

[b] India

[c] Singapore

[d] Malaysia

[e] Thailand

Answer: [d]
Q.7) Which Ministry is organising Kashi Tamil Sangamam Phase 2 of Ek Bharat Shreshtha
Bharat Programme from December 17 to 30, 2023 for fostering people-to-people connect?

[a] Ministry of Culture

[b] Ministry of Home Affairs

[c] Ministry of Education

[d] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

[e] Ministry of Defence

Answer: [c]
Q.8) Which Ministry has been awarded a gold medal for excellent performance in the
‘Ministry & Department’ category of the ‘India International Trade Fair’?

[a] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

[b] Ministry of AYUSH

[c] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

[d] Ministry of Education

[e] Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Answer: [b]
Q.9) Where is National Legal Services Authority, India (NALSA) along with International Legal
Foundation, the UNDP, and UNICEF hosting the first regional conference on Access to Legal
Aid with theme “Strengthening Access to Justice in the Global South”?

[a] New Delhi

[b] Mumbai

[c] Chennai

[d] Lucknow

[e] Jaipur

Answer: [a]
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PIB 247 – 3rd to 4th December 2023
Q.1) Which of the following statements are correct about the
recently launched Global Green Credit Initiative and its portal?

(1) It has been launched by India along with its portal at the 2023 UN
Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 28) in Dubai, UAE [a] 1, 2, 3 and 4
(2) It aims to facilitate global collaboration, cooperation, and [b] 2, 3, 4 and 5
partnership for planning, implementation, and monitoring of [c] 2, 3 and 4
environment-positive actions through programs/mechanisms like [d] 1, 2 and 3
Green Credits
[e] All of the above
(3) It is aligned with the principles of the Green Credit Program of
India

(4) It has three components (purposes) – Science, Policy, and Practice

(5) Its portal will serve as a repository of policies and best practices
that incentivize environment-friendly actions Answer: [e]
 Global Green Credit Initiative
➢What: India has launched the Global Green Credit Initiative and its portal
at the 2023 UNFCCC COP 28 in Dubai, UAE.

➢Why: To incentivize voluntary pro-planet actions, as an effective response

to the challenge of climate change.
➢About Global Green Credit Initiative

• Objective: To facilitate global collaboration, cooperation, and partnership

through the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices in
planning, implementation, and monitoring of environment-positive
actions through programs/mechanisms like Green Credits.
• It is aligned with the principles of the Green Credit Program (GCP) of India
• It envisions the issue of Green Credits for plantations on waste/degraded
lands and river catchment areas, to rejuvenate and revive natural eco-
systems.
• It has the following components (purposes)
▪ Science: Sharing of global technical know-how and experiences.
▪ Policy: Shaping green credit policy instruments.
▪ Practice (Supporting implementation): Creating one common value
chain.
• Global Green Credit Initiative Portal:
▪ It will serve as the digital hub for Global Green Credit Initiative
activities.
▪ It will also serve as a repository of policies and best practices that
incentivize environment-friendly actions
Q.2) Which statement is incorrect regarding the recently released Dynamic Ground Water
Resource Assessment Report for the year 2023 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti?

[a] Total annual groundwater recharge for the entire country is 449.08 billion cubic meters (BCM),
while extraction is 241.34 BCM

[b] Out of the total of 6553 assessment units, 4793 units (73.14 %) have been categorized as
‘Over-exploited’

[c] There is an overall decrease in the number of over-exploited units and also a decrease in the
stage of groundwater extraction level

[d] Over-exploited assessment units in the Northwestern part of the country are mostly located in
Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Western Uttar Pradesh

[e] There is a decrease in the stage of groundwater extraction level, which stands at 59.23%
Answer: [b]
Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report
➢What: The Ministry of Jal Shakti has released the Dynamic Ground Water
Resource Assessment Report for the entire country for the year 2023.

➢Why: To determine the prevailing status of groundwater resources and

the impact of ongoing groundwater management practices.
➢Findings of Assessment Report 2023

• There is an increase in groundwater recharge

• There is an improvement in groundwater conditions in 226 assessment
units in the country compared with the 2022 assessment data
• There is an overall decrease in the number of over-exploited units
• There is also a decrease in the stage of groundwater extraction level.
• Total annual groundwater recharge for the entire country: 449.08
billion cubic meters (BCM)
• Total annual groundwater extraction for the entire country: 241.34
BCM
• There is a decrease in the stage of groundwater extraction level, which
stands at 59.23%
• Out of the total of 6553 assessment units, 4793 units (73.14 %) have
been categorized as ‘Safe’, where the stage of Groundwater extraction is
less than 70%
▪ 736 units (11.23%) have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited’
indicating groundwater extraction exceeding the annually
replenishable groundwater recharge
▪ Over-exploited assessment units are mostly concentrated in
✓ Northwestern part of the country: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and
Western Uttar Pradesh where there is indiscriminate withdrawal
of groundwater
✓ Western part of the country: Rajasthan and Gujarat, where due
to arid climate, groundwater recharge is limited, leading to stress
✓ Southern part of peninsular India: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu,
Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, where due to crystalline
aquifers, the groundwater availability is low.
Q.3) ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum is an annual program focused on fostering a
strengthened relationship between India and ASEAN Member States on the premise of
cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation. It is a collaboration between the ASEAN
Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation and which Indian organization (s)?

[a] Department of Science & Technology

[b] Atal Innovation Mission

[c] National Innovation Foundation

[d] A and C

[e] A and B

Answer: [d]
 ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum
➢What: Two grassroots innovators and one student innovator from India
have won prizes in different categories at the recently concluded 4th
edition of the ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (AIGIF).
About ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum

• Objective: To give exposure to social innovations in different countries, it

also strengthens governance in the grassroots innovation ecosystem.
• It is an annual program focused on fostering a strengthened relationship
between India and the ASEAN Member States on the premise of
cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation.
• It is a collaboration between the
▪ ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation
▪ Department of Science & Technology (India)
▪ National Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India
▪ Science and Technology Ministry of the host nation
✓Malaysia’s MOSTI is the host nation for the year 2023
About 4th AIGIF

• It was hosted by Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and

Innovation
• Winners from India
▪ Dipak Bharali (Assam): 1st prize in the grassroots innovation
competition category for the innovation Weft Insertion Device.
▪ Sunil Shinde (Maharashtra): 3rd prize in the grassroots innovation
competition category for the innovation Silkworm Breeding Net
Folding Machine.
▪ Aanchal Aggarwal (Delhi): 3rd prize in the student innovation
competition for her innovation Parkinson Lathi
Q.4) With which country has India launched Phase II of Leadership Group for Industry
Transition (LeadIT 2.0) at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 28) in
Dubai, UAE?

[a] Sweden

[b] Norway

[c] France

[d] Australia

[e] Canada

Answer: [a]
 LeadIT 2.0

➢What: Prime Minister Modi with his Sweden counterpart have co-
launched Phase II of Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0)
at the 2023 UNFCCC COP 28 in Dubai, UAE.

• Objective: To enable the transition of heavy industry to net zero carbon

emissions by 2050.
• Launch Year: It was launched by India and Sweden at the UN Climate
Action Summit in 2019.
▪ It is supported by the World Economic Forum.
• It brings together countries and companies that are committed to action
to achieve the Paris Agreement.

➢LeadIT 2.0 will focus on

• Inclusive and Just Industry Transition

• Low Carbon Technology Development and Transfer
• Emerging Economy Technology Transfer
Q.5) Which competition(s) have been launched recently by Ministry of Tourism to strengthen
the promotion and development of Rural Tourism in the country?

[a] National Best Tourism Village Competition 2024

[b] National Best Rural Homestay Competition 2024

[c] National Tribal Tourism Competition 2024

[d] A and B

[e] A, B and C

Answer: [d]
 National Best Tourism Village Competition 2024

➢What: The Ministry of Tourism has launched the National Best Tourism
Village Competition 2024 and the National Best Rural Homestay
Competition 2024

➢Why: To strengthen the promotion and development of Rural Tourism in

the country.
About these Competitions:

• Objectives:
▪ To develop healthy competitiveness among the villages and the rural
homestays to identify and reward outstanding contributions to Rural
Tourism
▪ To incentivize communities and individuals for active contribution to
the sustainable development goals.
• National Best Tourism Village Competition 2023: It had recognized 35
villages all over India in Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories.
About Central Nodal Agency Rural Tourism and Rural Homestay (CNA RT &
RH)

• It has been established by the Ministry of Tourism for the effective

implementation of the initiatives for Rural Tourism.
• It is conducting the capacity building session for the states to create the
Master Trainers for the propagation of the competitions to the village
level.
Questions in Short
Q.6) Which Ministry has organised the SARAS Food Festival in New Delhi?

[a] Ministry of Tourism

[b] Ministry of Culture

[c] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

[d] Ministry of Tribal Affairs

[e] Ministry of Rural Development

Answer: [e]
Q.7) Which IIT recently organised SAMRIDHI (Strategic Acceleration for Market, Research,
Innovation & Development: a Holistic Initiative for ICPS Startups) Conclave under National
Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems?

[a] IIT Delhi

[b] IIT Bombay

[c] IIT Kharagpur

[d] IIT Ropar

[e] IIT Roorkee

Answer: [d]
Q.8) What is the name of the of the recently released 5th Edition flagship report on the
occasion of World AIDS Day (1st December) for providing data-driven comprehensive
progress across all components of the National AIDS Control Programme?

[a] SANKALAK

[b] SURAKSHA

[c] SAMRIDHI

[d] SUVIDHA

[e] SUVICHAR

Answer: [a]
Q.9) Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the flagship initiative of Ministry of Defence
has recently reached a milestone with the signing of its 300th contract. When was IDex
initiative launched?

[a] 2016

[b] 2018

[c] 2020

[d] 2021

[e] 2022

Answer: [b]
Q.10) Who is the co-chair from the Indian side of the India-US CEO Forum, comprising CEOs
from leading Indian and US-based companies?

[a] N. Chandrasekaran

[b] Narayan Murthy

[c] Anand Mahindra

[d] Sundar Pichai

[e] Satya Nadella

Answer: [a]
9999466225 w w w. a n u j j i n d a l . i n info@anujjindal.in
PIB 247 – 5th to 6th December 2023
Q.1) The first meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB) recently took place
under the chairmanship of Sunil J. Singhi in New Delhi. NTWB was established in
____________ by ________________. Fill the gap

[a] 2020, Ministry of MSME

[b] 2018, Ministry of Commerce and Industry

[c] 2019, Ministry of Finance

[d] 2021, Ministry of Cooperation

[e] 2020, Ministry of Labour and Employment

Answer: [b]
 National Traders’ Welfare Board
➢What: The first meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB)
recently took place under the chairmanship of Sunil J. Singhi in New Delhi.
About NTWD

• It was constituted for the Welfare of Traders and their employees by the
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of
Commerce and Industry.
• Established: 2018

• Composition:
▪ Chairperson (non-official)
▪ 5 members (non-official) having special knowledge of matters relating
to the technical or other aspects of retail trade
▪ 10 members (non-official) representing Trade Associations
▪ Non-official member representing each State/UT
▪ 9 Ex-officio representatives from Ministries/Departments.
• Functions: It advises the Government on the fulfilment of the following
objectives -
▪ To identify policy measures to achieve the objective of the welfare of
traders and their employees.
▪ To suggest simplifications in the Acts and Rules applicable to traders.
▪ To make recommendations to reduce the compliance burden of
traders.
▪ To improve access to funds for traders.
▪ To make recommendations regarding social security benefits like
insurance, pension, healthcare, etc., for traders and their employees.
▪ To make recommendations to address any other problems and issues
of traders and their employees.
Q.2) When was National Award for Innovations & Good Practices in Educational
Administration instituted by the Ministry of Education to honour innovations and good
practices of the district- and block-level education officers?

[a] 2014

[b] 2016

[c] 2018

[d] 2020

[e] 2022

Answer: [a]
 National Award in Educational Administration
➢What: The National Award for Innovations and Good Practices in
Educational Administration (2020-21 & 2021-22) was conferred recently
on 65 outstanding district and block education officers.
About Awards

• Objectives:
▪ To encourage innovations and good practices in educational
administration at the grassroots level for improving the functioning of
the public system of education.
▪ To create a culture and ecosystem of innovations and good practices in
educational administration at the field level of educational
administration.
▪ To document and disseminate innovations and good practices in
educational administration at district and block levels.
• Instituted by: National Institute of Educational Planning and
Administration (Ministry of Education) for district- and block-level
education officers.
• Launch Year: 2014
• It presents selected officers with an award/certificate of appreciation in
the national function conceding with a national conference on
innovations and good practices in educational administration.
▪ This conference is being organised by NIEPA in New Delhi.
Q.3) Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing a flagship scheme
namely Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with an investment of
___________ crore in all the States/UTs for a period of __________ for holistic development
of the fisheries sector in the country.

[a] Rs. 12345 crores, 10 years

[b] Rs. 15459 crores, 3 years

[c] Rs. 20050 crores, 5 years

[d] Rs. 16030 crores, 6 years

[e] Rs. 13940 crores, 4 years

Answer: [c]
 PM Matsya Sampada Yojana

➢Objective – To bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and

responsible development of fisheries sector in India.

➢Beneficiaries
• Fishers, Fish farmers, Fish workers, Fish vendors, SCs/STs/Women/
Differently abled persons, Fisheries cooperatives/Federations, FFPOs,
Fisheries Development corporations, Self Help Groups (SHGs)/Joint
Liability Groups (JLGs) and Individual Entrepreneurs.

➢Period of implementation – 5 years i.e. from FY 21 to FY 25

➢Targeted benefits
• Augment fish production and productivity at an annual growth rate of 9%
to achieve a target of 22 million metric tons by 2024-25.
• Generate about 55 lakhs direct and indirect employment opportunities in
the fisheries sector along the supply and value chain.
• Double the incomes of fishers, fish farmers and fish workers by 2024.
• Double export earnings from Rs.46,589 crores (2018-19) to about
Rs.1,00,000 crores by 2024-25.
• Enhancing productivity in aquaculture from the present national average of
3 tonnes to about 5 tonnes per hectare.
• Reduction of post-harvest losses from the reported 20-25% to about 10%.
➢Total investment: Rs.20,050 Crore
• Central share: Rs. 9,407 Crore,
• State share: Rs. 4,880 Crore
• Beneficiaries' share: Rs. 5,763 Crore
 Non-beneficiary
Oriented
Central Sector
Scheme (CS)
Beneficiary
Pradhan Mantri Oriented
Matsya
Sampada Yojana Non-beneficiary
Centrally Oriented
Sponsored
Scheme (CSS) Beneficiary
Oriented
➢Assistance during Fishing Ban/Lean Period

• Under the scheme, livelihood and Nutritional support for socio-

economically backward active traditional fisher’s families during the fishing
ban/lean period.
• Governmental financial assistance of Rs. 3000/- per annum is provided to
each enrolled beneficiary and the enrolled beneficiary’s contribution is for
Rs. 1500/- annually.
• Such accumulated amount of Rs. 4500/- is disbursed to each enrolled
beneficiary by the respective State/UT at the rate of Rs. 1500/- per month
during the fishing ban/lean period for three months annually.
Questions in Short
Q.4) How many districts in the country have been identified as the most vulnerable under
the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture?

[a] 230

[b 270

[c] 310

[d] 370

[e] 420

Answer: [c]
Q.5) The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) measures the combined and individual
production performance of eight core industries. Which of the following are part of the eight
core industries?

(1) Fertilizers [a] 1, 2, 3 and 4

(2) Natural Gas [b] 1, 3, 4 and 5

(3) Iron Mining [c] 2, 3, 4 and 5

[d] 1, 2, 4 and 5
(4) Refinery Products
[e] 1, 2, 3 and 5
(5) Electricity

Answer: [d]
Q.6) Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative was launched by ________________ in
______________ to spread awareness, build capacity as well as enable Government
departments on steps that need to be taken to create a cyber-resilient ecosystem.

[a] Ministry of Education, 2021

[b] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, 2018

[c] Ministry of Home Affairs, 2020

[d] Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, 2019

[e] Ministry of Science and Technology, 2022

Answer: [b]
Q.7) Which Ministry has approved One District One Product (ODOP) for 713 districts of 35
States and UTs under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises
(PMFME) scheme on the recommendations of respective States/UTs?

[a] Ministry of Food Processing Industries

[b] Ministry of Commerce and Industry

[c] Ministry of MSME

[d] Ministry of Finance

[e] Ministry of Cooperation

Answer: [a]
Q.8) Which Ministry is implementing the Mega Food Park Scheme (MFPS), a component
scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), to create modern
infrastructure for the food processing sector along the value chain from farm to market?

[a] Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

[b] Ministry of Food Processing Industries

[c] Ministry of Commerce and Industry

[d] Ministry of MSMEs

[e] Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution

Answer: [b]
Q.9) The Ministry of Heavy Industries is implementing the Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II) Scheme for a period
of _______ years commencing from __________ with a total budgetary support of
__________. Fill the gaps

[a] 3, 2023, Rs. 13000 crores

[b] 4, 2022, Rs. 14000 crores

[c] 10, 2020, Rs.12000 crores

[d] 5, 2019, Rs. 10000 crores

[e] 7, 2021, Rs. 15000 crores

Answer: [d]
Q.10) What is the name of the web-based portal launched in 2018 for Pradhan Mantri Fasal
Bima Yojana to digitize its processes like notification, farmer enrolment through various
channels like Banks, CSC, Intermediaries, and claim calculation, etc?

[a] National Crop Insurance Portal

[b] PMFBY Insurance Portal

[c] PMFBY Monitoring Portal

[d] National Agriculture Insurance Portal

[e] National PMFBY Insurance Portal

Answer: [a]
9999466225 w w w. a n u j j i n d a l . i n info@anujjindal.in
PIB 247 – 7th to 8th December 2023
Q.1) Which of the following statements are incorrect about the recently
released first delta rankings of the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)?

(1) It has been released by the Ministry of Rural Development

(2) Kaushambi block of Kaushambi District, Uttar Pradesh has secured the top [a] 1 and 2 Only
position in the overall rankings [b] 2 and 3 Only

(3) Tirla block of Dhar district and Pati block of Barwani District, both in [c] 3 and 4 Only
Madhya Pradesh are top rankers in Zone 5 (Central India) [d] 4 and 5 Only
[e] 2 and 4 Only
(4) Andar, Siwan, Bihar and Ramgarh in Dumka, Jharkhand are top rankers in
Zone 6 (Eastern India)

(5) Sironcha and Aheri blocks in Gadhichiroli district, Maharashtra are top
rankers in Zone 4 (Western India)

Answer: [a]
 1st Delta Rankings of ABP
➢What: NITI Aayog has released the first delta rankings of the Aspirational
Blocks Programme (ABP).
About 1st Delta Ranking of ABP

• Participation: 329 districts and 500 aspirational blocks

• Methodology: The ranking of the blocks has been calculated based on the
performance of blocks and progress achieved in the Key Performance
Indicators (KPIs) in June, 2023.
▪ Total 40 KPIs were chosen to measure the progress of the blocks which
have been grouped into 5 themes.
• Top Rankers (Overall):
▪ 1st Rank - Tiryani Block of Kumaram Bheem Asifabad District,
Telangana
▪ 2nd Rank - Kaushambi block of Kaushambi District, Uttar Pradesh
 Zone Rank Block
Zone 1 (Hilly and North- 1 Amri block, Assam
eastern States as well as 2 Ngopa block, Mizoram
Islands)

Zone 2 (Northern States) 1 Harraiya block, Uttar Pradesh

2 Virno block, Uttar Pradesh
Zone 3 (Southern states) 1 Maski block, Karnataka
2 Narnoor, Telangana
Zone 4 (Western States) 1 Sironcha block, Maharashtra
2 Aheri block, Maharashtra
Zone 5 (Central States) 1 Tirla block, Madhya Pradesh
2 Pati block Madhya Pradesh
Zone 6 (Eastern states) 1 Andar, Siwan, Bihar
2 Ramgarh in Dumka, Jharkhand
• Prize/Recognition: The winners will be felicitated with a prize amount of
Rs. 1.5 crores for top rank and Rs. 1 crore for second rank in all zonal
categories.
▪ Top rankers will be displayed on the Wall Fall made at NITI Aayog.

Aspiration District Programme Rankings (October 2023)

• It was also released along with 1st Delta Ranking of ABP

▪ 1st Rank: Rayagada (Odisha)
▪ 2nd Rank: Jamui (Bihar)
About Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)

• Launch Year: 2023.

• Coverage: 500 blocks from 329 districts across 27 states and 4 Union
Territories.
• It focuses on improving governance to enhance the quality of life of
citizens in the most difficult and relatively underdeveloped blocks of India.
• Its strategy is based on the convergence of existing schemes, defining
outcomes, and monitoring them constantly.
Q.2) Which State/UT in collaboration with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power
has launched 4E Wave- a Student-led National Movement for Energy Conservation?

[a] New Delhi

[b] Gujarat

[c] Himachal Pradesh

[d] Karnataka

[e] Jammu and Kashmir

Answer: [e]
 4E Wave Initiative
➢What: 4E Wave- a Student-led National Movement for Energy Conservation
has been launched recently

➢Why: To invite individuals across the nation to contribute to the cause of

energy conservation
➢About 4E Wave Initiative

• Objective: To promote sustainable practices and instil a sense of

responsibility in individuals and communities to save energy.
• Launched by: J&K Power Development Department, Government of J&K
and Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power.

• 4E Wave Portal: It has been launched to provide an interactive platform to

citizens nationwide for information and resource-sharing related to energy
conservation.
• It encapsulates four key elements:
▪ Eco-friendliness: Promoting energy-saving practices that are
environmentally friendly
▪ Economy: Emphasizing energy-saving solutions that lead to economic
benefits for individuals and communities
▪ Education: Focusing on educating the public about energy- saving
methods and their importance
▪ Empowerment: Empowering individuals and communities to take
active roles in conserving energy
Q.3) The National Mission for Clean Ganga on behalf of River Cities Alliance has signed a
Memorandum of Common Purpose with the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative
(MRCTI) to establish an efficient framework for collaboration between them. MRCTI
represents 124 cities/towns situated along the banks of the Mississippi River located in which
country?

[a] Canada

[b] USA

[c] Mexico

[d] Germany

[e] Australia

Answer: [b]
 River Cities Alliance
➢What: The National Mission for Clean Ganga on behalf of River Cities
Alliance (RCA), has signed a Memorandum of Common Purpose with the
Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI).

➢Why: To establish an efficient framework for collaboration between the

RCA and MRCTI.
• It was signed during the ongoing COP28 currently underway in Dubai,
United Arab Emirates.
• MRCTI represents 124 cities/towns situated along the banks of the
Mississippi River, USA.
• Significance: With this, the total tally of RCA members has increased to
267 river cities.
Q.4) The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Interest Equalisation Scheme
on Pre and Post-Shipment Rupee Export Credit till 30th June 2024 with an additional outlay
of __________. Fill the gap

[a] Rs 2000 Crores

[b] Rs 1000 Crores

[c] Rs 2500 Crores

[d] Rs 3500 Crores

[e] Rs 1500 Crores

Answer: [c]
 Interest Equalisation Scheme

➢What: The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Interest
Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post-Shipment Rupee Export Credit till
30th June 2024.

➢Why: To help exporters from identified sectors and all MSME

manufacturer exporters to avail pre and post-shipment Rupee export
credit at competitive rates.
About the Scheme

• Launch Year: 2015

• Tenure: It was initially valid for 5 years up to 2020.
• It has been continued thereafter, including one-year extension during
COVID, and with further extensions and fund allocations.
• Implemented by: RBI through various Public and non-public Sector banks
that provide pre and post-shipment credit to the exporters.
▪ It is jointly monitored by DGFT and RBI through a consultative
mechanism.
• Benefits: Currently, it provides an interest equalisation (interest subsidy)
benefit at the rate of
▪ 2% on pre and post-shipment Rupee export credit to merchant and
manufacturer exporters of 410 identified tariff lines
▪ 3% to all MSME manufacturer exporters
▪ Benefits to individual exporters have been capped at Rs 10 Crores per
annum.
▪ In addition, the banks that lend to exporters at an average rate of
more than Repo + 4% will be debarred under the Scheme.
▪ Extension: It has been extended now till June 2024
▪ Benefits: It will be provided to manufacturer and merchant exporters
of the identified 410 tariff lines and all manufacturer exporters from
MSME sectors at rates as specified below:

▪ Financial Implications: The additional outlay of Rs 2500 Crores, over

and above the current outlay of Rs. 9538 Crores will be provided.
Questions in Short
Q.5) Which Project is being implemented by the Ministry of Culture for cultural mapping and
documentation of villages across India?

[a] Mera Goan, Mera Bharat Project

[b] Mera Goan, Mera Desh Project

[c] Mera Goan, Mera Ithihas Project

[d] Mera Goan, Meri Suraksha Project

[e] Mera Gaon, Meri Dharohar Project

Answer: [e]
Q.6) Which Ministry(ies) in collaboration with the Gujarat Government are organizing Startup
Conclave 2023 in Gandhinagar?

[a] Ministry of Commerce and Industry

[b]Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology

[c] Ministry of Science & Technology

[d] A and B

[e] A, B and C

Answer: [e]
Q.7) Which online dashboard was set up by the Ministry of Jal Shakti in April 2023 for
continuous monitoring of river water quality, performance of Sewage Treatment Plants,
Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETPs), etc. on the Ganga and Yamuna rivers?

[a] NIRMAL JAL

[b] SHAAF Platform for Real-time Analysis

of Yamuna, Ganga and their
[c] SHUDHI Tributaries

[d] PRAYAG

[e] JAL

Answer: [d]
Q.8) Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is implementing Centrally Sponsored
Scheme of Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) from 2015-16. From the year 2015-16 to 2021-22, it
was implemented as a component of Pradhanmantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana. From year
2022-23, it is being implemented under ____________. Fill the gap

[a] Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana

[b] Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

[c] Krishi UDAN scheme

[d] Mission Amrit Sarovar

[e] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi

Answer: [a]
Q.9) Under AMRUT 2.0, a Sub Scheme on Formulation of GIS-based Master Plans of Class-II
Towns with a population of 50,000 – 99,999’ has been launched for _________ towns with a
total outlay of Rs. 631.13 Crores. Fill the gap

[a] 463

[b] 547

[c] 675

[d] 783

[e] 983

Answer: [c]
Q.10) Ministry of Culture has launched the “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme for engaging
with the private and public sector companies to develop and provide amenities at protected
monuments through CSR funds. Which of the following amenities are covered under the
program?

(1) Hygiene [a] 2, 3 and 4

(2) Accessibility [b] 1, 3, 4 and 5

[c] 1, 2, 4 and 5
(3) Ownership
[d] 1, 2 and 3
(4) Safety [e] 2, 3, 4 and 5
(5) Knowledge

Answer: [c]
9999466225 w w w. a n u j j i n d a l . i n info@anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
09th – 10th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: With which country has India recently launched Electronic Origin
Data Exchange System (EODES) for faster clearance of imported
goods?
[a] Australia
[b] South Korea
[c] Canada
[d] France
[e] Japan

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

Electronic Origin
Data Exchange
System
India-Korea Electronic Origin Data
Exchange System (EODES) has been
launched recently for faster clearance
of imported goods
 www.anujjindal.in

ABOUT:
India-Korea EODES
Objectives:
To facilitate the smooth implementation of the India-Korea Comprehensive
Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

• It will electronically share data fields in a Certificate of Origin (CoO)

shared by the exporting customs administration with the importing
customs, as soon as the certificate is issued.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Which country is hosting 27th World Association of Investment

Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) World Investment Conference under the
theme "Empowering Investors: IPAs Pioneering Future Growth"?
[a] Australia
[b] China
[c] Singapore
[d] India
[e] Canada

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

27th WAIPA World

Investment
Conference
India is hosting 27th World Association
of Investment Promotion Agencies
(WAIPA) World Investment Conference
in New Delhi.
 www.anujjindal.in

ABOUT 27th WAIPA WIC:

• Theme: "Empowering Investors: IPAs Pioneering Future Growth".
• Organiser: Invest India, the National Investment Promotion and
Facilitation Agency of India.
• It is being held for first time in India and is the largest world investment
conference ever.
 www.anujjindal.in

About WAIPA

• Mission:
▪ To empower and support investment promotion agencies in
the important work they do to develop their economies
▪ To be a voice for Investment Promotion Agencies
internationally
▪ To serve as a bridge between the public and private sectors.
• It is a non-governmental organization.
• Established: 1995 by the United Nations Conference on Trade and
Development.
 www.anujjindal.in

About WAIPA

• Membership: It has more than 120 member agencies

representing more than 100 countries.

• WIC: It is an annual flagship event of WAIPA. It serves as a

platform for global investment promotion and innovation
stakeholders.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: In collaboration with which tech company has Ministry of

Electronics & Information Technology launched YUVAi (Youth for
Unnati and Vikas with AI) Programme?
[a] Google
[b] Amazon
[c] Meta
[d] Intel
[e] Apple

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Youth for Unnati

and Vikas with AI –
YUVAi

YUVAi - Youth for Unnati and Vikas with

AI Programme will be featured at the
Global Partnership on Artificial
Intelligence (GPAI) Summit to showcase
its impact and significance.
 www.anujjindal.in

About YUVAi Programme

Objective: To foster a deeper understanding of AI and enable school students
(class 8 to 12) with AI skills and empower them to become human-centric
designers and users of AI.

• Collaborative initiative of: National e-Governance Division and Intel India.

• Implementation: 3 Phases in multiple cohorts
• It is designed to equip the youth with essential AI skills and commitment
to enabling a future-ready workforce.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) led by India’s National Mission for Clean
Ganga has been launched at COP28 United Nations Climate Change Conference
in Dubai, UAE. It is first of its kind unique alliance in the world, covering
__________+ global river-cities in ______________ countries, international
funding agencies and knowledge management partners. Fill the gap
[a] 275, 11
[b] 320, 15
[c] 410, 19
[d] 530, 24
[e] 640, 27

Ans. (a)
 www.anujjindal.in

Global River Cities

Alliance

Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) led

by India’s National Mission for Clean
Ganga (NMCG) has been launched at
COP28 United Nations Climate Change
Conference in Dubai, UAE.
 www.anujjindal.in

ABOUT GRCA
• It first of its kind unique alliance in the world, covering 275+ global river-
cities in 11 countries, international funding agencies and knowledge
management partners.

• Supporting Countries: India, Egypt, Netherlands, Denmark, Ghana,

Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Japan, Australia and Hungary

• Supporting Organisations: World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Asian

Infrastructure Investment Bank and KPMG
 www.anujjindal.in

ABOUT GRCA
• It is modelled on the lines of India’s River Cities Alliance established by
the NMCG (Ministry of Jal Shakti) and the National Institute of Urban
Affairs (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs) in November 2021.

• It will propel sustainable initiatives, knowledge sharing, and

collaborative efforts for a resilient global water future.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: Identify incorrect statement about National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development
Corporation
[a] It is as an apex corporation for the all-round socio-economic upliftment of the Safai
Karamcharis, Scavengers and their dependants throughout India
[b] It is a wholly owned Government of India Undertaking under the Ministry of Rural
Development
[c] It was set in 1997 as a Company "Not for Profit" under Section 25 of the Companies Act,
1956
[d] It works for empowerment of these most vulnerable and deprived sections of society
through its various loan based and non-loan-based schemes/programmes
[e] Its schemes/programmes are implemented through State Channelizing Agencies
nominated by the State Govts/UTs, RRBs and Nationalised Banks

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

National Safai
Karamcharis
Finance and
Development
Corporation
The Annual General Meeting of National
Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development
Corporation (NSKFDC) recently took place in
New Delhi.
 www.anujjindal.in

About NSKFDC
It is as an apex corporation for the all-round socio-economic upliftment of
the Safai Karamcharis, Scavengers and their dependants throughout India.

• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

• Founded: 1997 (as a Company "Not for Profit" under Section 25 of the
Companies Act, 1956)

• Head Office: New Delhi

 www.anujjindal.in

About NSKFDC
• It works for empowerment of these most vulnerable and deprived
sections of society through its various loan based and non-loan-based
schemes/programmes

▪ Its schemes/programmes are implemented through State Channelizing

Agencies nominated by the State Govts/UTs, RRBs and Nationalised Banks.

▪ It provides financial assistance at concessional rates of interest to the

SCAs/RRBs/Nationalised Banks for onward disbursement to the target
group of NSKFDC.
 www.anujjindal.in

Schemes implemented by NSKFDC

❑ Swachhta Udyami Yojana
❑ Mahila Samridhi Yojana
❑ Micro Credit Finance Scheme
❑ General Term Loan
❑ Green Business Schemes
❑ Skill Training: It provides Skill development Training to sanitation workers and
their dependents under SRMS and PM DAKSH Yojana.
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: The Union Government has approved the Dam Rehabilitation and
Improvement Project (DRIP) Phase-II & III Scheme at a total cost of Rs.10,211
Crore. This provision is for ___________ States and 3 Central Agencies, and
the funds will be spent over the period of __________ years. Fill the gaps
[a] 23, 8
[b] 19, 10
[c] 26, 7
[d] 15, 5
[e] 10, 3

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: The Ministry of Labour and Employment has launched eShram portal in
2021 for registration and creation of a comprehensive National Database of
Unorganized Workers. It allows an unorganised worker to register himself or
herself on the portal on self-declaration basis, under 400 occupations in 30
broad occupation sectors. This portal has been integrated with
(1) National Career Service Portal [a] 1, 3 and 4 Only
(2) PM-SYM Maandhan Portal [b] 1 and 2 Only

(3) Skill India Digital portal [c] 2 and 3 Only

(4) myScheme portal [d] 1, 2 and 3 Only

[e] All of the above

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: The Social Security code, 2020 envisages framing of suitable social
security schemes by Central Government for Gig workers and platform
workers on matters relating to
(1) Life and disability cover [a] 1, 4 and 5
[b] 1, 2, 3 and 4
(2) Accident insurance
[c] 2, 3, 4 and 5
(3) Health and maternity benefits
[d] 1, 2 and 3
(4) Old age protection
[e] All of the above
(5) Crèche

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: Self Reliant India (SRI) Fund launched in 2021 aims to provide support
for MSMEs across the country through equity infusion. It has been set up to
infuse ____________ as equity funding in those MSMEs which have the
potential and viability to grow and become large units. Fill the gap
[a] Rs. 15,000 crores
[b] Rs. 25,000 crores
[c] Rs. 30,000 crores
[d] Rs. 50,000 crores
[e] Rs. 45,000 crores

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently has approved

reservation norms for mandatory use of jute in packaging for the Jute Year
2023 -24 under the Jute Packaging Act, 1987. These mandatory packaging
norms provide for __________ reservation of the foodgrains and _________
of sugar to be compulsorily packed in jute bags. Fill the gaps
[a] 90%, 50%
[b] 60%, 10%
[c] 100%, 20%
[d] 70%, 40%
[e] 50%, 30%

Ans. (c)
9999466225 www.anujjindal.in info@anujjindal.in
9999466225 www.anujjindal.in info@anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
11th – 13th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q.1) Which of the following statements are correct about the

recently launched Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme?
(1) It has been launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change [a] 1, 2 and 4
(2) It offers voluntary third-party certification designed to promote [b] All of the above
sustainable forest management and agroforestry in the country [c] 1, 2, 3 and 5
(3) It will provide forest management certification, tree outside [d] 3, 4 and 5
forest management certification, and chain of custody certification
[e] 1, 3 and 4
(4) Forest Research Institute, Dehradun is the operating agency of
this scheme
(5) Its certification will be based on the Indian Forest Management
Standard, consisting of 8 criteria, 69 indicators, and 254 verifiers

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Indian Forest &

Wood Certification
Scheme
The Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change has launched the
Indian Forest & Wood Certification
Scheme to promote Sustainable
Management of forests and
agroforestry
 www.anujjindal.in

About Indian Forest & Wood

Certification Scheme
• Objective: To offer voluntary third-party certification
designed to promote sustainable forest management and
agroforestry in the country.

• It offers three types of certifications

▪ Forest management certification
▪ Tree outside forest management certification
▪ Chain of custody certification
 www.anujjindal.in

About Indian Forest & Wood

Certification Scheme
• It provides market incentives to various entities that adhere
to responsible forest management and agroforestry
practices in their operations. These entities include
▪ State forest departments

▪ Individual farmers or FPOs engaged in agroforestry and

farm forestry
▪ Other wood-based industries in the value chain
 www.anujjindal.in

About Indian Forest & Wood

Certification Scheme

• Its certification will be based on the Indian Forest

Management Standard, consisting of 8 criteria, 69 indicators,
and 254 verifiers
▪ This standard is an integral part of the National Working

Plan Code 2023

 www.anujjindal.in

About Indian Forest & Wood

Certification Scheme
• Institutional arrangement for IFWCS
▪ Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council: It will act

as a multi-stakeholder advisory body.

▪ Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal: It will act

as an operating agency and be responsible for the overall

management of the scheme.
▪ National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies

under the Quality Council of India: It will carry out

independent audits of various entities
 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Which country recently organised the BRICS Technical Forum on

Disability Meeting to establish the BRICS Disability Forum?
[a] Russia
[b] China
[c] India
[d] Brazil
[e] South Africa

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

BRICS Disability
Forum

BRICS Disability Forum has been

established recently at the BRICS
Technical Forum on Disability
Meeting organized virtually by South
Africa (BRICS Sherpa).
 www.anujjindal.in

About BRICS Disability Forum

Objective:
To promote the mainstreaming of disability inclusion across BRICS
processes, priority areas, declarations, and agreements.

• It will serve as a platform for the exchange of best practices, research,

and knowledge related to disability.
• It intends to expedite the implementation of existing commitments,
outlined in international instruments such as
▪ UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
▪ UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: With which international organization has NITI Aayog signed a

Statement of Intent to support NITI's Agriculture Vertical in crucial
areas for 5 years?
[a] World Bank
[b] IFPRI
[c] AIIB
[d] ADB
[e] UN-FAO

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

SoI- NITI Aayog and

IFPRI

The NITI Aayog and the International Food

Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) have signed
a Statement of Intent (SoI) to fortify policy
and program frameworks contributing to
India's developmental objectives.
 www.anujjindal.in

About SoI
• Duration: 5 years
• It grants IFPRI a broad mandate to support NITI's Agriculture
Vertical in crucial areas.

• It will support in
▪ Development and tracking of Rural Transformation Indicators
▪ Design and evaluation of flagship programs.

• Initially it will focus on agriculture, rural development, trade, and

climate change policies in India.
 www.anujjindal.in

About IFPRI
• Mandate: To improve the understanding of national
agricultural and food policies to promote the adoption of
innovations in agricultural technology.
• It is an international agricultural research centre
• Founded: 1975
• Headquarters: Washington (US).
• It provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably
reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: Government has set up the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

(UIDF) through the use of priority sector lending shortfall for creating urban
infrastructure in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Under it, the minimum size of
funding for a project is __________ (excluding hilly and northeastern states)
and the maximum size is __________. Fill the gaps
[a] Rs. 2 crores, Rs. 80 crores
[b] Rs. 5 crores, Rs. 100 crores
[c] Rs. 10 crores, Rs. 150 crores
[d] Rs. 15 crores, Rs. 200 crores
[e] Rs. 20 crores, Rs. 250 crores

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

Urban
Infrastructure
Development Fund

Government has set up the Urban

Infrastructure Development Fund
(UIDF) through the use of priority
sector lending shortfall for creating
urban infrastructure in Tier 2 and Tier 3
cities
 www.anujjindal.in

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

• Objective: To supplement the efforts of the State Governments
for urban infrastructure development works by providing a
stable and predictable source of financing (loans).

• Fund Manager: National Housing Bank.

• Initial Fund Corpus: Rs.10,000 crore.

• It has been established through Priority Sector Lending Shortfall

to create urban infrastructure in Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities.
 www.anujjindal.in

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

• Target Cities: It will focus on cities/ULBs in the population

group of 50,000 to 9,99,999 covering about 40% of the
Urban Population.

▪ Tier 2 cities: 459 towns with a population between 1 lakh

to 9,99,999 (Census 2011)

▪ Tier 3 cities: 580 towns with population between 50,000

to 99,999 (Census 2011)
 www.anujjindal.in

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

• Eligible Activities for availing loans under the UIDF are aligned
with the Missions and programs of the Ministry of Housing and
Urban Affairs.

▪ Its focus is on basic services like sewerage and Solid Waste

Management, water supply and sanitation, construction, and
improvement of drains/storm water drains.
 www.anujjindal.in

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

• Eligible Loan Amount: It will be based on the size of the
project and the geographical location of the project.
▪ Minimum loan size of a project: Rs. 5 crores (Rs. 1
crore for North-East & Hilly States)
▪ Maximum loan Size: Rs. 100 crores.
▪ Rate of Interest: 1.5%
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: The Ministry of Heavy Industries is implementing

the Scheme for “Enhancement of Competitiveness in
the Indian Capital Goods Sector- Phase-II” with a [a] 2, 3 and 5
financial outlay of Rs. 1207 crores. Which of the [b] 1, 2, 4 and 5
following are the main components of this Scheme?
[c] 2, 3, 4 and 5
1) Setting up of New Advanced Centres of Excellence
[d] 1, 2, 3 and 4
and augmentation of Existing Centres of Excellence
[e] All of the above
2) Setting up of Common Engineering Facility Centres
and augmentation of existing CEFCs
3) Augmentation of existing Testing and Certification
Centres
4) Setting up of Industry Accelerators
5) Promotion of skilling in the Capital Goods Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: In which state, India's first six-lane steel slag-based road connecting
NH-6 to Hazira port was constructed in 2022 using processed steel slag
aggregates as a substitute for natural aggregates in all layers of
bituminous pavement?
[a] Odisha
[b] Jharkhand
[c] West Bengal
[d] Gujarat
[e] Maharashtra

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: Recently, one croreth Unique Disability ID (UDID) card has been
presented to beneficiary. When was the UDID project launched by the
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment?
[a] 2017
[b] 2019
[c] 2021
[d] 2022
[e] 2023

Ans. (a)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: Which Ministry has recently launched an indigenous IQ testing

tool?
[a] Ministry of Science and Technology
[b] Ministry of Education
[c] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[d] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[e] Ministry of Women and Child Development
It has been developed by the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with
Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: The Government has set a target of ___________ blending of

ethanol in petrol under the Ethanol Blending Program by 2025-26. Fill
the gap
[a] 13%
[b] 10%
[c] 15%
[d] 20%
[e] 25%

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: What is the share of export of MSME-related products in all

India exports in 2022-23?
[a] 49.77%
[b] 43.59%
[c] 45.56%
[d] 49.35%
[e] 45.56%

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q11: Which platform has been launched to bring Informal Micro

Enterprises under the formal ambit for availing the benefits under
Priority Sector Lending?
[a] MSME Formalisation Platform
[b] Uday Support Platform
[c] Udyam Assist Platform
[d] MSME PSL Platform
[e] MSME Jagran Platform

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q12: Which vertical has been added most recently (in 2019) to the
Namami Ganga Program launched by the Government in 2014?
[a] Nirmal Ganga
[b] Aviral Ganga
[c] Jan Ganga
[d] Gyan Ganga
[e] Arth Ganga

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q13: India is currently amongst the top 12 destinations for

Biotechnology in the world with approximately _________ share in the
Global Biotechnology Industry. India's ‘Bio-Economy’ has grown from
$10 billion to ___________ in the last eight years. Fill the gaps
[a] 6%, $60 billion
[b] 2%, $90 billion
[c] 3%, $80 billion
[d] 4%, $100 billion
[e] 5%, $70 billion

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q14: The provision of safe drinking water is one of the key priorities
under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Accordingly, while allocating the funds
to States/ UTs, __________ weightage is given to the population
residing in habitations affected by chemical contaminants. Fill the gap
[a] 10%
[b] 15%
[c] 20%
[d] 25%
[e] 30%

Ans. (a)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q15: Which PSU has recently launched its retail division for providing
loans to borrowers in the PM-KUSUM scheme, Rooftop Solar, and
other Business-to-Consumer (B2C) sectors?
[a] NTPC Limited
[b] NHPC
[c] REC
[d] NEEPCO
[e] IREDA

Ans. (e)
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
14th – 16th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: India has been recently chosen as the Partner Administration for
the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) program launched in Saint
Lucia. This program is an initiative of which organisation/s?
[a] UN Development Programme
[b] European Union
[c] Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
[d] A and B
[e] A and C

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Tax Inspectors
without Borders
Programme

India has been chosen as the Partner

Administration for the Tax Inspectors
without Borders (TIWB) program
launched in Saint Lucia to provide Tax
experts for it.
 www.anujjindal.in

About TIWB Program

Objective: To aid Saint Lucia in strengthening its tax administration by
transferring technical knowledge and skills to its tax administration, and
through sharing of best practices.

• It is a joint initiative of the UN Development Programme and the

Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
• Duration: 12-18 months.
• NOTE: This is the seventh TIWB program that India has supported by
providing Tax Experts.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Identify incorrect statement about Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan

[a] It is a central school organization that oversees the functioning of
Kendriya Vidyalayas
[b] It was established in 1963 with headquarters in New Delhi
[c] It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Defence
[d] As of April 2023, it has a total of 1,253 schools in India, and three
abroad in Kathmandu, Moscow, and Tehran
[e] None of the above

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Kendriya Vidyalaya
Sangathan
Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan
recently celebrated its diamond
Jubilee in New Delhi
 www.anujjindal.in

About Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan

Mandate: To provide quality education to the children of transferable
central government employees, including defense and para-military
personnel.

• It is a central school organization that oversees the functioning of

Kendriya Vidyalayas, which are a system of central government schools in
India.
• Established: 1963
• Parent Ministry: It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of
Education.
 www.anujjindal.in

About Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan

• School board: Central Board of Secondary Education

• As of April 2023, it has a total of 1,253 schools in India, and three abroad
in Kathmandu, Moscow, and Tehran.
▪ It is one of the world's largest chains of schools and also the largest
chain of schools in India.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: Recently, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) presented the

National Energy Conservation Awards 2023 and National Energy
Efficiency Innovation Awards 2023 on the occasion of National Energy
Conservation Day 2023 (observed on 14th December). When was BEE
established?
[a] 2000
[b] 2002
[c] 2010
[d] 2012
[e] 2014

Ans. (b)
 www.anujjindal.in

National Energy
Conservation
Awards
The President of India has conferred the
following awards on the occasion of National
Energy Conservation Day 2023.
• National Energy Conservation Awards 2023
• National Energy Efficiency Innovation Awards
2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Background
• The National Energy Conservation Day and the Awards are being
organized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under Ministry of
Power.

About BEE
• Objectives:
▪ To reduce the energy intensity of the Indian economy.
▪ To regulate and promote energy efficiency and its conservation in India
• Mandate: To assist in developing policies and strategies for self-regulation and
market principles, within the framework of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
• It was set up in 2002 under the provisions of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001
 www.anujjindal.in

About National Energy Conservation

Awards 2023
• Objective: To raise awareness about energy efficiency and
its conservation
• Nodal Organisation: BEE

• It recognizes and encourages endeavors of industrial units,

institutions, and establishments in reducing energy
consumption
• This year, a total of 63 prizes comprising 20 first prizes, 16
second prizes, and 27 Certificates of Merit are being
awarded.
 www.anujjindal.in

About NEEIA 2023

• Objective: To recognize outstanding work and innovative minds
of India in the area of Energy Efficiency

• Launch Year: 2021.

• Categories:
▪ Category A: Industries, Building and Transport
▪ Category B: Students and Research Scholars.

• This year, a total of 8 prizes comprising 1 first prize, 1 second

prize, and 6 Certificates of Recognition are being awarded.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: India as the Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence

(GPAI) recently hosted the GPAI Summit 2023 in New Delhi. GPAI is a
multi-stakeholder initiative launched in _________. Its Council and
Steering Committee are hosted by ___________. Fill the gaps
[a] 2023, G20
[b] 2022, UNDP
[c] 2021, WEF
[d] 2020, OECD
[e] 2019, EU

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

GPAI Summit 2023

India, the Chair of the Global Partnership on

Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) recently hosted
the GPAI Summit in New Delhi.
 www.anujjindal.in

About GPAI
• Objective: To bridge the gap between theory and practice on AI by
supporting cutting-edge research and applied activities on AI-related
priorities.
• It is a multi-stakeholder initiative launched in 2020 with
15 members (India is its founding member)
▪ Its idea had developed within the G7.
▪ At present, it has 29 members.
 www.anujjindal.in

About GPAI
• Organisational Structure
▪ GAPI Council and a Steering Committee: It is supported by a
Secretariat hosted by the OECD
▪ Two Centres of Expertise:
✓ CEIMIA, the International Centre of Expertise in
Montreal for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence
✓ INRIA, the French National Institute for Research in
Digital Science and Technology, Paris.
• Currently, it has four working groups on the themes of
Responsible AI, Data Governance, the Future of Work, and
Innovation and Commercialization.
 www.anujjindal.in

Major outcomes of GPAI Summit 2023

• GPAI New Delhi Declaration: It has built the consensus among GPAI
members on advancing safe, secure, and trustworthy AI and
commitment to supporting the sustainability of GPAI projects.

• IndiaAI Expo: It was organized by the Ministry of Electronics and

Information Technology.
▪ It featured organizations that are at the forefront of AI innovation.

• AI Pitch Fest: It provided an opportunity for upcoming startups to

pitch for their innovation and value-added products and services.
 www.anujjindal.in

Major outcomes of GPAI Summit 2023

• AI Gamechangers Award: It recognized and celebrated the impactful
AI solutions that are driving responsible AI innovation across two
categories of awards
▪ AI in Governance Leader Award
▪ NextGen Leaders Award

• India brought together all major initiatives for AI – UN Advisory

Group on AI, UK AI Safety Summit – at one event.

• AI Research Analytics and Knowledge Dissemination Platform

(AIRAWAT) and National Program on Artificial Intelligence and its role
in shaping AI ecosystem in India were emphasized.
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: Which financial services group has joined hands with AICTE and
National Skill Development Corporation to introduce the Certificate
Program in Banking, Finance, and Insurance?
[a] Paytm
[b] BharatPe
[c] Cred
[d] Zerodha
[e] Bajaj Finserv

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: The National Highways Authority of India has recently signed an

agreement to develop Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) under the
Public Private Partnership model at an estimated cost of Rs.673 crore.
Where will this MMLP be located?
[a] Nagpur
[b] Bhopal
[c] Jaipur
[d] Varanasi
[e] Ahmedabad

Ans. (a)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: The Government of India recently signed a $200 million loan

agreement with the Asian Development Bank to improve the quality,
efficiency, and reliability of power supply in which State/UT?
[a] Himachal Pradesh
[b] Jammu and Kashmir
[c] Uttar Pradesh
[d] Uttarakhand
[e] Madhya Pradesh

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: The National Highways network in the country has increased

from about 91,287 km in 2014 to about ____________ at present. Fill
the gap
[a] 1,53,249 km
[b] 1,34,455 km
[c] 1,46,145 km
[d] 1,78,585 km
[e] 1,65,349 km

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: The Ministry of Rural Development through DAY-NRLM provides

a Vulnerability Reduction Fund (VRF) up to ___________ per Village
Organization (VO). Fill the gap
[a] Rs. 3,50,000
[b] Rs. 3,00,000
[c] Rs. 2,50,000
[d] Rs. 2,00,000
[e] Rs. 1,50,000

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: The ‘Women Scientist Scheme’ is one of the flagship programs of

the _____________ Scheme of the Ministry of Science and Technology
that provides opportunities to women scientists to pursue research
careers in the field of science and technology, especially those who had a
career break. Fill the gap
[a] INDIA-UPLIFT
[b] EMPOWER-INDIA
[c] VIGYAN-SURAKSHA
[d] STREE-SHAKTI
[e] WISE-KIRAN

Ans. (e)
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
17th – 18th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: Which of the following statements are correct about recently

released Logistics Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023?
(1) LEADS is an annual assessment of NITI Aayog that assesses
performance of logistics eco-system across States and UTs
[a] 1, 3 and 4 Only
(2) It was conceived in 2020 on the lines of Logistics Performance Index
of World Bank [b] 3, 4 and 5 Only
[c] 1, 2 and 5 Only
(3) It measures logistics performance of states/UTs using two pillars-
Objective assessment (Weightage: 23%) and Perception Data [d] 3 and 4 Only
Assessment (77%) [e] 1, 2 and 3 Only
(4) It assesses States/UTs across 4 groups - Coastal, Landlocked, UTs and
North-East
(5) Kerala and Maharashtra have been classified as Achievers in the
Coastal Group of LEADS 2023

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Logistics Ease
Across Different
State (LEADS) 2023
Ministry of Commerce and Industry
has recently released the 5th edition of
the LEADS 2023 report to provide
insights into improvement of logistics
performance at State/UT level
 www.anujjindal.in

About LEADS

• It is an annual assessment of Ministry of Commerce and

Industry, assessing performance of logistics eco-system across
States and UTs.

• It provides valuable insights to States/UTs about key drivers

of logistics performance.

• It was conceived in 2018 on the lines of Logistics Performance

Index (LPI) of World Bank.
 www.anujjindal.in

About Logistics Ease Across Different

States (LEADS)
• Pillars for measuring logistics performance
▪ Objective assessment (23% Weightage)
✓ Support provided by State/UTs for policy & process
improvement of Logistics ecosystem.
✓ Enablers of Logistics – stock of physical infrastructure.
▪ Perception Data Assessment (77% Weightage)
✓ Logistics Infrastructure
✓ Logistics Services
✓ Operating and Regulatory Environment
• It assesses States/UTs across 4 groups: Coastal, Landlocked,
UTs and North-East.
 www.anujjindal.in

LEADS 2023 report

• It is based on a pan-India primary survey, conducted between May
and July 2023, covering over 7,300 responses across 36
States/UTs.
• It has classified States/UTs into three performance levels –
Achievers, Fast Movers and Aspirers, based on their logistics
performance
• It has seen positive shift in States’ performance across the key
pillars –
▪ Logistics Infrastructure
▪ Logistics Services
▪ Operating and Regulatory Environment
 www.anujjindal.in

Performance Highlights from LEADS 2023:

 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Which form of funding support is/are provided for empowering Self-Help
Groups and their federations under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY – NRLM)?

[a] Revolving Fund

[b] Community Investment Fund
[c] Social Security Fund
[d] A and B
[e] A, B and C

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

DAY – NRLM:
Revolving Fund
and Community
Investment Fund
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana –
National Rural Livelihoods Mission
(DAY – NRLM) is the flagship program
of Government
 www.anujjindal.in

About DAY – NRLM Scheme

• Objectives
▪ To organize the rural poor women into Self Help Groups (SHGs)
▪ To continuously nurture and support them till they attain
appreciable increase in incomes over a period of time
▪ To improve their quality of life to bring come out of abject
poverty

• Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development

• Coverage: It is implemented across the country (except Delhi &

Chandigarh).
 www.anujjindal.in

About DAY – NRLM Scheme

▪ Under it, SHGs and their federations are empowered by providing

them funding support in the form of

▪ Revolving Fund (RF)

▪ Community Investment Fund (CIF)
 www.anujjindal.in

About DAY – NRLM Scheme

▪ Revolving Fund (RF):
✓ Purpose: To strengthen institutional and financial
management capacity of SHGs and build a good credit
history within the group.
✓ It is provided to SHGs in existence for a minimum period of
3/6 months and follow the norms of good SHGs, i.e. they
follow ‘Panchasutra’ –
❖ Panchasutra: It comprises of regular meetings, regular
savings, regular internal lending, regular recoveries and
maintenance of proper books of accounts.
✓ RF with a minimum of Rs. 10,000 and up to a maximum of
Rs. 15,000 is provided per SHG.
 www.anujjindal.in

About DAY – NRLM Scheme

▪ Community Investment Fund (CIF):

✓ It is provided to the SHGs in the intensive blocks,

routed through the Village level/Cluster level
Federations, to be maintained in perpetuity by the
Federations.

✓ It is used, by the Federations, to advance loans to the

SHGs or to undertake the common/collective socio-
economic activities.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: Which Ministry has launched National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR)
Portal for accessing, sharing, and analyzing geospatial information across the
nation?
[a] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[b] Ministry of Science and Technology
[c] Ministry of Mines
[d] Ministry of Defence
[e] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

National
Geoscience Data
Repository Portal
Ministry of Mines has launched the
National Geoscience Data Repository
(NGDR) Portal to foster innovation in
exploration.
 www.anujjindal.in

About NGDR Portal

• It is a comprehensive online platform for accessing, sharing, and

analyzing geospatial information across the nation.

• Developed by: Geological Survey of India and Bhaskarachaya

Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG-N)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: Which of the following institute(s) is/are the implementing agencies of 2nd
Phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam?
[a] IIT Madras
[b] Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan
[c] Banaras Hindu University
[d] A and B
[e] A and C

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

2nd Phase - Kashi

Tamil Sangamam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
inaugurated the second phase of
Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi,
Uttar Pradesh.
 www.anujjindal.in

About 2nd Phase of Kashi Tamil Sangam

• Objective: To revive the living bonds between Varanasi and

Tamil Nadu - two important centres of learning and culture in
ancient India - by facilitating people to people connect across
different walks of life.

• Duration: 17th to 30th December, 2023

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education

 www.anujjindal.in

About 2nd Phase of Kashi Tamil Sangam

• Implementing Agencies
▪ IIT Madras in Tamil Nadu
▪ Banaras Hindu University in Uttar Pradesh

• Other Participating Ministries: Ministries of Culture, Tourism,

Railways, Textiles, Food Processing, MSME, Information &
Broadcasting, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, IRCTC
and Government of Uttar Pradesh.
 www.anujjindal.in

About 2nd Phase of Kashi Tamil Sangam

• Groups: 7 groups named after seven sacred rivers of India

will be travelling from Chennai, Coimbatore and
Kanyakumari to Kashi. These groups are
▪ Students (Ganga)
▪ Teachers (Yamuna)
▪ Professionals (Godavari)
▪ Spiritual (Saraswati)
▪ Farmers and Artisans (Narmada)
▪ Writers (Sindhu)
▪ Traders and Businessmen (Kaveri)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: Which of the following statements about International

Cooperation Scheme are incorrect?
(1) It is implemented by Ministry of Commerce and Industry to [a] 1 and 3 Only
provide financial assistance to MSMEs for promoting exports
[b] 1 and 2 Only
(2) It aims to build capacity of MSMEs for entering export market by
[c] 2 and 3 Only
facilitating their participation in international exhibitions/fairs etc
[d] 3 and 4 Only
(3) It is implemented in 456 districts of the country
[e] 1 and 4 Only
(4) It has three sub-components - Market Development Assistance
of MSMEs, Market Development Assistance of MSMEs and
Framework for International Market Intelligence Dissemination

Ans. (a)
 www.anujjindal.in

International
Cooperation
Scheme
The Ministry of Micro, Small and
Medium Enterprises is implementing
‘International Cooperation Scheme’ to
provide financial assistance for
promoting exports by MSMEs
 www.anujjindal.in

About International Cooperation Scheme

• Objectives:

▪ To build capacity of MSMEs for entering export market by

facilitating their participation in international
exhibitions/fairs/conferences/seminar/ buyer-seller meets
abroad
▪ To provide them with market-intelligence and
reimbursement of various costs involved in export of goods
and services.

• Coverage: All the districts of the country

 www.anujjindal.in

About International Cooperation Scheme

• Sub-components:

▪ Sub-Component I: Market Development Assistance of MSMEs

▪ Sub-Component II: Capacity Building of First Time MSE

Exporters

▪ Sub-Component III: Framework for International Market

Intelligence Dissemination
 www.anujjindal.in

About International Cooperation Scheme

• Financial incentives under International Cooperation Scheme
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: The Parliament recently passed the Central Universities (Amendment), Bill,
2023 for establishment Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University at Mulugu.
Where it will be located?
[a] Andhra Pradesh
[b] Odisha
[c] Chhattisgarh
[d] Telangana
[e] Jharkhand

Ans. (d)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has sanctioned Projects
to assess impact of air pollution on human health in __________ selected Cities
across the country under National Environmental Health Profile Study. Fill the gap

[a] 31
[b] 15
[c] 20
[d] 55
[e] 43

Ans. (c)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: The Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)

provides concessional finance to the Eligible Entities, including States/UTs and
State entities for development of identified fisheries infrastructure facilities
through Nodal Loaning Entity/ies. Which of the following are the NLE/s for FIDF?

[a] National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development

[b] National Cooperatives Development Corporation
[c] All scheduled Banks
[d] A and B
[e] A, B and C

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: Under PM SVANidhi Scheme, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has
launched the program of Socio-economic profiling of PM SVANidhi beneficiaries
and their families in selected ULBs under the sub-component of ‘SVANidhi se
Samriddhi’. This program aims to link the eligible Street Vendors to which Central
Government Welfare Schemes?
(1) Pradhan Mantri JeevanJyoti Bima Yojana
[a] 1, 2 and 3
(2) PM Suraksha Bima Yojana [b] 1, 2, 4 and 5
(3) Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana [c] 2, 3, 4 and 5
(4) Janani Suraksha Yojana [d] 1, 2, 3 and 4
(5) Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana [e] All of the above

Ans. (e)
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of girls in Primary and Secondary
Education is almost at par with that of boys. The presence of girls/ women in
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is ___________. Fill
the gap
[a] 35%
[b] 43%
[c] 57%
[d] 62%
[e] 51%

Ans. (b)
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
19th – 20th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: Which of the following statements about the New Swarnima Loan
Scheme are incorrect?
(1) It has been launched by the National Commission for Women to
inculcate the spirit of self-dependence among the women of Backward [a] 1, 2, 3 and 4
Classes
[b] 2, 3 and 4
(2) Women of Backward Classes between the ages of 20 and 60 years
[c] 1 and 2
with a total annual family income less than Rs. 3 lakh per annum are
eligible to avail benefits under it [d] 1, 2 and 4
(3) The loan availed under it is to be repaid in quarterly installments [e] None of the above
with a maximum of 10 years
(4) It provides women entrepreneurs from backward classes a loan
(subsidy) up to Rs. 5,00,000/- @ 5% per annum

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

New Swarnima
Loan Scheme
Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment is implementing the
New Swarnima Loan Scheme to
provide term loans to women
entrepreneurs from backward classes.
 www.anujjindal.in

About New Swarnima Loan Scheme

• Objectives: To inculcate the spirit of self-dependence among
the women of Backward Classes through Term Loans.

• Targeted Beneficiary: Women of Backward Classes

• Benefits:
▪ It provides a loan (subsidy) up to Rs. 2,00,000/- @ 5% per
annum.
▪ Beneficiary woman is not required to invest any amount
of her own on the projects up to the cost of Rs.2,00,000/-.
 www.anujjindal.in

About New Swarnima Loan Scheme

• Eligibility:
▪ The applicant must be a Female entrepreneur from
notified backward classes.
▪ Age: Between 18 and 55 years.
▪ Total Annual Family Income: Less than Rs. 3 lakh per
annum

• Implementation: This scheme has been introduced by the

National Backward Classes Finance and Development
Corporation (NBCFDC)
▪ It is implemented by State Channelising Agencies (SCAs)
which act as the nodal agency.
 www.anujjindal.in

About New Swarnima Loan Scheme

• Features of the Scheme
▪ Maximum Loan Amount: Rs. 2.00 Lakh (per beneficiary)
▪ Pattern of Financing:
✓ NBCFDC Loan: 95% at interest of 2% per annum
✓ Channel Partner Contribution: 5% at interest of 5% per
annum

• Repayment of loan: To be repaid in quarterly instalments

with a maximum of 8 years.
▪ It includes the moratorium period of six months on the
recovery of principals.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: The Ministry of MSME recently launched three sub-schemes under the aegis of the
Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme. Which of the following
sub-schemes are correctly matched with their respective objectives?
[a] MSME GIFT Scheme: To support circular economy projects
[b] MSE SPICE Scheme: To help MSMEs adopt green technology with interest subvention and
credit guarantee support
[c] MSE Scheme on Online Dispute Resolution for Delayed Payments: To synergize legal
support with modern IT tools and Artificial Intelligence to address the incidences of delayed
payments for MSEs
[d] A and B
[e] A, B and C

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

RAMP programme:
3 Sub-schemes
Launched
Ministry of MSME has launched the
three sub-schemes under the aegis of
the Raising and Accelerating MSME
Performance (RAMP) Programme
 www.anujjindal.in

About RAMP Scheme

About RAMP Scheme
• Objectives:
▪ To improve access to market and credit
▪ To strengthen institutions and governance at the Centre
and State,
▪ To improve Centre-State linkages and partnerships
▪ To address issues of delayed payments and greening of
MSMEs.

• Launch Year: 2022

• Type: Central Sector Scheme (assisted by World Bank)

 www.anujjindal.in

About RAMP Scheme

• Total outlay: Rs.6,062.45 crore

▪ Rs.3750 crore is a loan from the World Bank.
▪ Rs.2312.45 crore is funded by Central Government

• Tenure: 5 years (2021-22 to 2025-26)

• Monitoring and policy overview: It is done by National MSME

Council, headed by the Minister of MSME.
 www.anujjindal.in

About RAMP Scheme

• Six DLIs against key results areas

▪ Implementing the National MSME Reform Agenda
▪ Accelerating MSME Sector Centre-State collaboration.
▪ Enhancing the effectiveness of the Technology
Upgradation Scheme
▪ Strengthening Receivable Financing Market for MSMEs
▪ Enhancing Effectiveness of Credit Guarantee Trust for
Micro and Small Enterprises and "Greening and Gender"
delivery
▪ Reducing the incidence of delayed payments
 www.anujjindal.in

Three New sub-schemes of RAMP

• MSME GIFT Scheme: It intends to help MSMEs adopt green
technology with interest subvention and credit guarantee
support.
• MSE SPICE Scheme: It is the first ever scheme in the
Government to support circular economy projects.
▪ It will be done through credit subsidy and will lead to
realizing the dream of the MSME sector towards zero
emissions by 2070.
• MSE Scheme on Online Dispute Resolution for Delayed
Payments: It is a first-of-its-kind scheme to synergize legal
support with modern IT tools and Artificial Intelligence to
address the incidences of delayed payments for MSEs.
 www.anujjindal.in

Other Important Announcements made

by the Ministry of MSME
• Support for Commercialisation of IP Programme (MSME –
SCIP Programme): It will enable the innovators in the MSME
sector to commercialize their IPR.

• Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) Scheme: It has been made
completely free for women-led MSMEs.
▪ The government will now guarantee payment of 100%
financial support for the certification cost.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: Which mobile application has been launched by Ministry of Textiles to provide
important information about MSP and agronomy to jute farmers?
[a] Jute-Support
[b] Paat-Mitro
[c] Jute-Mitra
[d] Suvidha-Jute
[e] Samrath-Jute

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Paat-Mitro
Application
Ministry of Textiles launched a mobile
application “Paat-Mitro” to provide
important information about MSP and
agronomy to jute farmers
 www.anujjindal.in

About Paat-Mitro App

• Developed by: Jute Corporation of India Limited

• Languages: It is available in 6 languages.

• Information Provided:
▪ Agronomic practices
▪ Minimum Support Prices (MSP)
▪ Jute Gradation Parameters
▪ Farmer-centric schemes like ‘Jute-ICARE’
▪ Weather forecasts
▪ JCI’s Purchase Centers’ locations
▪ Procurement Policies
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: The Union Cabinet recently approved the MoU between India and which
country to enhance innovation ecosystems through an innovation handshake?
[a] France
[b] Australia
[c] Japan
[d] Russia
[e] USA

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: The Union Government has increased the health budget in the country from
Rs 33,000 crore in 2013-14 to _______________ in 2023. Fill the gap
[a] Rs. 1,33,000 crore
[b] Rs. 1,20,000 crore
[c] Rs. 1,54,000 crore
[d] Rs. 1,15,000 crore
[e] Rs. 1,47,000 crore

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra aims to create awareness among citizens about
various welfare schemes and seek their participation in the spirit of “Jan Bhagidari”
to ensure 100% saturation of schemes. It is the largest-ever outreach initiative of the
Government of India and will cover __________ Gram Panchayats and __________+
urban local bodies across the nation by January 25, 2024. Fill the gaps
[a] 2.20 lakh, 3200
[b] 2.40 lakh, 3500
[c] 2.60 lakh, 4000
[d] 2.90 lakh, 4300
[e] 3.10 lakh, 4500

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: How many routes so far have commenced operations under the Regional
Connectivity Scheme (RCS) - UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik)?
[a] 450
[b] 517
[c] 623
[d] 756
[e] 875

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: Which dashboard has been developed by NITI Aayog to provide near real-
time data on the energy sector, climate, and related economic datasets based on
government-published sources?
[a] ICED
[b] CEPD
[c] OPED
[d] MOND
[e] TRPD

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: Which Ministry in alliance with the World Bank recently hosted the
“Alleviating Heat Stress by Enhancing Production of Affordable Cooling Devices
(AHEAD)" consultation workshop in New Delhi?
[a] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[b] Ministry of Labour and Employment
[c] Ministry of Heavy Industries
[d] Ministry of MSME
[e] Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: Which portal has been started by the Ministry of Education in collaboration
with IIT Kanpur to provide quality education to every student who intends to
participate in competitive Education such as JEE, NEET, and various State-level
Engineering and other Examinations?
[a] SATHEE Portal
[b] SMART Portal
[c] SUPPORT Portal
[d] SECURE Portal
[e] SIMPLIFY Portal

Solution: [a]
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
21st – 24th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: Which Project has been launched by the International Organisation for Migration
in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs to help Indian workers and
students migrate in a secure, orderly, and regular manner?
[a] Project ABHYAS
[b] Project SAFAR
[c] Project SAFE
[d] Project SAMEER
[e] Project PRAYAS

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Project PRAYAS
The International Organisation for
Migration in partnership with the
Ministry of External Affairs has launched
project PRAYAS (Promoting Regular
Assisted Migration for Youth and Skilled
Professionals) for the year 2023-24
 www.anujjindal.in

About Project PRAYAS

• Objective: To facilitate safe, orderly, and regular migration for

aspiring Indian migrant workers and students in collaboration
with MEA, NITI Aayog, and State Governments.

• It is an IOM Development Fund-assisted Project

• It will strengthen coordination between state and central

governments on international migration practices.
 www.anujjindal.in

About International Organization for

Migration
• It is an intergovernmental organization within the United
Nations system in the field of migration.

• Mandate: To promote humane and orderly migration for the

benefit of all.

• Established: 1951

• Headquarters: Grand-Saconnex, Switzerland

• Member states: 175 (including India)

 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Which Ministry/ies in collaboration with the World Bank recently launched the
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Beginner’s e-course to foster collaboration between
public and private sectors in infrastructure capacity-building?
[a] Ministry of Finance
[b] Ministry of Highways and Road Transport
[c] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[d] A and B
[e] A and C

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

PPP Beginner’s
e-course
World Bank and the Ministry of Finance
have launched a Public-Private
Partnership (PPP) Beginner’s e-course
to foster collaboration between public
and private sectors in infrastructure
capacity-building
 www.anujjindal.in

About PPP Beginner’s e-course

• Objective: To provide foundational knowledge and insights to

individuals keen on understanding and contributing to the dynamic
realm of PPPs in India

• Jointly Developed by: Infrastructure Finance Secretariat (Ministry of

Finance) and World Bank.

• Duration: 7 hours and 15 mins

▪ Those taking up the course need not have any prior experience
in PPP.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: With which e-commerce platform has the Ministry of Rural Development recently
signed an MoU to enhance the outreach of the products of Self-Help Groups of
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)?
[a] Amazon India
[b] JioMart
[c] Flipkart
[d] Swiggy
[e] Zepto

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

MoU- Ministry of
Rural Development
and JioMart
Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD)
has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Reliance
Retail’s JioMart to help enhance the
outreach of the products of Self-Help
Groups (SHGs) of DAY-NRLM.
 www.anujjindal.in

About MoU

• It will enable SHGs to be on-boarded as sellers onto the e-

commerce fold on JioMart

• It will further boost MoRD’s provision under the SARAS

collection to be available to a larger consumer base.

• It will help SHGs to widen their market and visibility and offer
their curated products to customers of JioMart across India.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: Which of the following statement is incorrect about the Palna Scheme?
[a] It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child
Development
[b] It is part of the Sambal sub-component of Mission Shakti
[c] Its target group is children in the age group of 6 months to 6 years
[d] It provides services like daycare facilities, preschool education and supplementary
nutrition, etc
[e] Under it, crèches are open for 26 days a month and seven and half hours per day

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Palna Scheme

A National Level Programme on

Anganwadi-Cum-Crèche Under Palna
was held in New Delhi to release the
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of
the Palna Scheme.
 www.anujjindal.in

About Palna Scheme

• Objectives
▪ To provide day-care facilities for children (6 months to 6
years) of all mothers
▪ To improve nutrition and health status of children
▪ To promote physical, cognitive, social, and emotional
development of children
▪ To educate and empower parents /caregivers for better
childcare
• Parent Scheme: In 2022, it was made part of the Samarthya sub-
component of Mission Shakti

• Type: Centrally Sponsored Scheme

 www.anujjindal.in

About Palna Scheme

• Target Group: Children of 6 months to 6 years.

• Services: It provides an integrated package of the following

services:
▪ Daycare Facilities including Sleeping Facilities
▪ Early Stimulation for children below 3 years
▪ Pre-school Education for 3 to 6 years old children
▪ Supplementary Nutrition (to be locally sourced)
▪ Growth Monitoring
▪ Health Check-up and Immunization
 www.anujjindal.in

About Palna Scheme

• Location of crèche: Near the homes of children or the place of
work of the mothers (at a walkable distance i.e. ½ - 1 km)

• Creche Timings: Crèches shall be open for 26 days a month and

seven and a half (7-1/2) hours per day.

• Number of beneficiaries/Creche: Ideally it should not be more

than 25 children.
▪ Of these, at least 40% of children should, preferably, be
below 3 years of age.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: Which portal has been launched by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public
Distribution for National and State Consumer Commissions to further enhance the
customer experience?
[a] e-OneHelp Portal
[b] e-Consumer Sewa Portal
[c] e-Ghrahak Portal
[d] e-Dakhil Portal
[e] e-JAGRITI portal

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

e-JAGRITI Portal
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food &
Public Distribution has launched various
initiatives on the occasion of National
Consumer Day
 www.anujjindal.in

Initiatives launched
• e-JAGRITI portal: It has been launched for consumer
Commissions to enhance the customer experience further.

• National Consumer Helpline 2.0: It has been launched to serve

as an alternative dispute resolution method.
▪ It is available in over 17 languages, including the newly
added Maithili, Kashmiri, and Santhali.
• Inauguration of Drone certification facility at Nation Test House
▪ The NTH is the largest multi-location, multi-disciplinary
industrial testing laboratory in India under the Ministry of
Consumer Affairs.
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: Where has the Office-cum-Training Centre of Bhaskaracharya National Institute for
Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) for PM GatiShakti been inaugurated
recently?
[a] Chennai
[b] Gandhinagar
[c] Mumbai
[d] Kolkata
[e] New Delhi

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: India has set an ambitious target of a US $3 Trillion tourism economy by

____________, of which adventure tourism will contribute _______________. Fill the
gaps
[a] 2035, US $500 Billion
[b] 2047, US $800 Billion
[c] 2050, US $700 Billion
[d] 2045, US $600 Billion
[e] 2060, US $900 Billion

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: With which organization has Khelo India, the flagship program of the Ministry of
Youth Affairs and Sports joined hands to ensure transportation and infrastructure are
accessible in New Delhi during the Khelo India Para Games?
[a] Svayam
[b] Pratham
[c] Smile Foundation
[d] Kailash Satyarthi Foundation
[e] Samarthanam Trust

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: What is the name of modules developed by the Ministry of Social Justice &
Empowerment under “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan” to increase awareness and
education on life skills and drugs among school students?
[a] Samadhan
[b] Suvichar
[c] Navchetna
[d] Suraksha
[e] Niyam

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: In Union Budget FY 2021-22, the announcement was made to develop 5 Major
fishing harbors (Chennai, Kochi, Paradip, Petuaghat, and Visakhapatnam) at a total cost
of _________ with the central share of ____________. Fill the gap
[a] Rs. 786.67 crore, Rs. 275.34 crore
[b] Rs. 678.34 crore, Rs. 234.56 crore
[c] Rs. 518.68 crore, Rs. 199.75 crore
[d] Rs. 423.45 crore, Rs. 178.34 crore
[e] Rs. 374.56 crore, Rs. 164.55 crore

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q11: On which mobile app, all districts have been requested to either declare themselves
free from manual scavenging or upload the data of insanitary latrines and manual
scavengers associated with it?
[a] Swachhta Abhiyan App
[b] Samarthan Abhiyan App
[c] Ekta Abhiyan App
[d] Samridhi Abhiyan App
[e] Suraksha App

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q12: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma

Gandhi NREGS) is a gender-neutral Scheme. As per the provision of the Act, the State
Government shall link the wages, without any gender bias, with the quantity of work
done. Currently, _________ of the person days have been generated by Women
Beneficiaries. Fill the gap
[a] 44.56%
[b] 59.28%
[c] 64.79%
[d] 69.45%
[e] 71.23%

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q13: What is the tenure of revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan implemented by
the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in all States/UTs?
[a] 2020 to 2024
[b] 2021 to 2025
[c] 2022 to 2026
[d] 2023 to 2017
[e] None of the above

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q14: The Union Government is implementing Soil Health Management & Soil Health
Card Schemes under the National Project on Soil Health & Fertility of National Mission
for Sustainable Agriculture since 2014-15. Now, these schemes have been merged as Soil
Health & Fertility component of which centrally sponsored scheme?
[a] Agriculture Infrastructure Development Fund
[b] Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana
[c] Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
[d] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
[e] Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q15: Under Swachh Bharat: Swachh Vidyalaya Initiative, 4.17 lakh toilets (2.26 lakh boys’
and 1.91 lakh girls’ toilets) were constructed or made functional in 2.61 lakh elementary
and secondary government schools. As per UDISE+, 2021-22 data, ___________of
Government schools have boys’ toilets, ________of Government Schools have girls’
toilets. Fill the gaps
[a] 95.5%, 97.4%
[b] 99.8%, 98.5%
[c] 100%, 100%
[d] 97.7%, 96.4%
[e] 98.3%, 94.6%

Solution: [a]
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
25th – 28th Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: Identify incorrect statement about the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups
[a] It was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Finance as part of the Startup India
Action Plan
[b] It provides collateral-free debt funding to eligible startups through member
lending institutions
[c] Only DPIIT-recognised startups are eligible to avail of benefits under this scheme
[d] The maximum amount of debt eligible for guarantee cover under this scheme is
Rs. 10 crore per borrower startup
[e] None of the Above

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

Credit Guarantee
Scheme for
Startups
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Start-Ups
is being implemented by Ministry of
Commerce and Industry
 www.anujjindal.in

About Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

• Objective: To provide credit guarantee up to a specified limit

against loans extended by Member Institutions (MIs) to finance
eligible borrowers viz. Startups.

• Launch Year: 2016 as part of Startup India Action Plan

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

 www.anujjindal.in

About Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

• It provides collateral-free debt funding to eligible startups

through member lending institutions

• Maximum amount of debt eligible for guarantee cover: Rs. 10

crores per borrower
 www.anujjindal.in

About Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

• Eligibility criteria for Borrower Startup

▪ Recognized by DPIIT

▪ Reached stage of stable revenue stream, as assessed from

audited monthly statements over 12 months

▪ Not in default to any lending/investing institution and not

classified as a Non-Performing Asset as per RBI guidelines

▪ Its eligibility is certified by the member institution for

guarantee cover
 www.anujjindal.in

About Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

• Eligible lending/investing institutions
▪ Scheduled Commercial Banks and Financial Institutions.
▪ RBI registered Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)
having a rating of BBB and having a minimum net worth of
Rs. 100 crores.
▪ SEBI registered Alternative Investment Funds

• This Scheme does not provide guarantee cover to DPIIT-

recognized startups directly, but through a Trustee - National
Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Ltd
 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Which platform has been launched recently by the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare for budding entrepreneurs and innovators to shape their research and get
regulatory approval?
[a] Suraksha Mitra
[b] Arogya Mitra
[c] Swastiya Mitra
[d] MedTech Mitra
[e] HealthTech Mitra

Solution: [d]
 www.anujjindal.in

MedTech Mitra
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
has launched 'MedTech Mitra': A
Strategic Initiative to Empower MedTech
Innovators and Advance Healthcare
Solutions
 www.anujjindal.in

About MedTech Mitra

• Objective: To foster the development of affordable and
accessible indigenous Medical devices by providing strategic
handholding support to MedTech innovators for
▪ Clinical evaluation
▪ Regulatory facilitation
▪ Uptake of new products
• Initiative of NITI Aayog, Indian Council of Medical Research &
Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation

• It will facilitate the reduction in import dependence (presently

around 80%) in MedTech.
 www.anujjindal.in

Q3: Which of the following statements are incorrect about

Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase 1?
(1) It is an umbrella program for the highways sector launched by [a] 1 and 2 Only
the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways [b] 2 and 3 Only
(2) It was launched in 2018 with a total cost of Rs 6.25 lakh crores [c] 3 and 4 Only
(3) It aims to bridge critical infrastructure gaps through the [d] 1 and 4 Only
development of 40,000 km of National Highways by 2025
[e] 1 and 3 Only
(4) It has been recently extended till 2027-28

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Bharatmala
Pariyojana
The Cabinet Committee on Economic
Affairs has extended the deadline for
Bharatmala Phase I to 2027-28 i.e. by six
years from the original schedule.
 www.anujjindal.in

About Bharatmala Pariyojana

• Objectives
▪ To optimize the efficiency of freight and passenger
movement across the country by bridging critical
infrastructure gaps.
▪ To improve the efficiency of existing corridors through the
development of a Multimodal Logistics Park
▪ To improve connectivity in North East

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Highways and Road Transport

• Launch Year: Phase I was approved in 2017

 www.anujjindal.in

About Bharatmala Pariyojana

• Target: Development of 34,800 km of National Highways by 2022

(now extended to FY 2027-28)

▪ About 26,418 km of highway stretches – 76% of the total

length of 34,800 km – have been awarded so far.
▪ Till November 2023, 42% of projects have been completed.

• Cost: Rs. 5.35 Lakh Crore.

www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q4: Three new features were launched recently by the Ministry of Personnel, Public
Grievances & Pensions on the iGOT Karmayogi platform. Which of the following
feature(s) is/are correctly matched with its function?
[a] My iGOT: It will deliver targeted training courses for the individual officer
[b] Blended Programs: It will facilitate equitable access to training methodologies across
all levels and integrate offline classroom courses with online learning components.
[c] VIKAS (Variable & Immersive Karmayogi Advanced Support): It is a new blended
learning program for the management of civil servants in the Central Secretariat
[d] A and B
[e] A, B and C

Solution: [e]
 www.anujjindal.in

Extended Version
of Mission
Karmayogi
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances
& Pensions has launched an extended
version of Mission Karmayogi (National
Program for Civil Services Capacity
Building) on Good Governance Day
(25th December)
 www.anujjindal.in

Features launched as part of the Extended

version
• My iGOT: It will deliver targeted training courses for
individual officers.

• Blended Programs: It will facilitate equitable access to

training methodologies across all levels and integrate offline
classroom courses with online learning components.

• VIKAS (Variable & Immersive Karmayogi Advanced Support):

It is a new blended learning program for the management of
civil servants in the Central Secretariat.
 www.anujjindal.in

Features launched as part of the Extended

version are

• Curated Programs: These will cater diverse learning needs of

Ministries/Departments and Training Institutions.

• 12 domain-specific capacity building e-learning courses:

These will directly address the domain competency
requirements of the Civil Servants working in DoPT
 www.anujjindal.in

Q5: Karmayogi Bharat, in association with NITI Aayog, has recently launched 6
SAMARTH Curated Training Programs on the iGOT Karmayogi Platform for State
Government officials. Which of the following is not among these programs?
[a] SAMARTH Krishi
[b] SAMARTH Policy
[c] SAMARTH Procurement
[d] SAMARTH Rajya
[e] SAMARTH Blocks

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

6 SAMARTH
Curated Programs
Karmayogi Bharat, in association with
NITI Aayog, has launched 6 SAMARTH
Curated Training Programs on the iGOT
Karmayogi Platform for State
Government officials.
 www.anujjindal.in

About SAMARTH Curated Programs

• Objective: To elevate the skills and competencies of government
officials, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving
needs of governance.

• 6 Programs are
▪ SAMARTH Blocks: It offers courses for citizen-facing officials
and local administrators, to build their foundational skills
crucial for effective local governance.
▪ SAMARTH Zila: It offers courses for district-level officials to
equip them with the knowledge and tools required to
address district-level challenges and drive effective service
delivery.
 www.anujjindal.in

About SAMARTH Curated Programs

▪ SAMARTH Rajya: It offers courses for state-level officials, to equip
learners with advanced skills required for steering governance at
the state level.
▪ SAMARTH Rajya Sachiva: It offers courses to senior officials and
state secretaries to empower them with the expertise needed to
navigate complex policy landscapes.
▪ SAMARTH Policy: It offers courses dealing with the intricacies of
policy formulation, policy writing, insights, data analysis, and
evaluation.
▪ SAMARTH Procurement: It caters to officials involved in
procurement processes to provide them with specialized training in
procurement guidelines, rules, strategies, and considerations.
www.anujjindal.in
 www.anujjindal.in

Q6: Government of India and the Asian Development Bank have recently signed a
$100 million loan agreement to improve urban services and tourism facilities in which
state?
[a] Nagaland
[b] Assam
[c] Sikkim
[d] Tripura
[e] Manipur

Solution: [d]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q7: Which of the following organizations has recently constituted Dhruba

Purkayastha Committee on transition finance to formulate a regulatory framework to
promote green and sustainable debt securities?
[a] RBI
[b] SEBI
[c] IFSCA
[d] BSE
[e] NSE

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q8: The Energy Conservation Building Code has been developed by the Ministry of
Power to ensure new Commercial buildings are constructed with features that reduce
energy consumption. The responsibility for the implementation of the Energy
Conservation Building Code lies with the State Government. How many states/UTs
have notified this code till October 2023?
[a] 28
[b] 26
[c] 24
[d] 22
[e] 20

Solution: [c]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q9: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has fixed the Minimum Support
Price for the Fair Average Quality of milling copra at _____________ per quintal and
for ball copra at ___________ per quintal for the 2024 season. Fill the gaps
[a] Rs. 12,456. Rs.11,546
[b] Rs.11,160, Rs.12,000
[c] Rs.12,834, Rs.13,456
[d] Rs.13,567, Rs.14,234
[e] Rs.14,789, Rs.15,567

Solution: [b]
 www.anujjindal.in

Q10: The Union Cabinet has recently approved the Migration and Mobility
Agreement between India and which country?
[a] France
[b] Russia
[c] Australia
[d] Italy
[e] UAE

Solution: [d]
www.anujjindal.in
PIB
24*7
29th – 31st Dec 2023
 www.anujjindal.in

Q1: Which system has been recently introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change to facilitate the seamless transit of timber, bamboo, and other forest
produce across the country?
[a] National Transit Pass System
[b] National Forest Produce Transit System
[c] Forest Transport Management System
[d] Forest Produce Protection System
[e] National Forest Produce Management System

Solution: [a]
 www.anujjindal.in

National Transit
Pass System
Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change has launched the
National Transit Pass System (NTPS) -
‘One Nation-One Pass’ to facilitate the
seamless transit of timber, bamboo, and
other forest produce across the country
 www.anujjindal.in

About National Transit Pass System

• It is envisioned as a "One Nation-One Pass" regime, which
will enable seamless transit across the country.

• It will streamline the issuance of timber transit permits by

providing a unified, online mode for tree growers and farmers
involved in agroforestry across the country, contributing to
the ease of doing business.
▪ Currently, transit permits are issued for the transport of
timber and forest produce based on state-specific transit
rules.
 www.anujjindal.in

About National Transit Pass System

• Features:
▪ It will offer seamless QR-coded transit permits, managing
records for both inter-state and intra-state transportation of
timber, bamboo, and other forest produce.
▪ These transit permits will be issued for tree species that are
regulated.
▪ It also allows users to self-generate No Objection Certificates
for exempted species.

• So far 25 States/UTs have embraced this unified permit system.

 www.anujjindal.in

Q2: Who is the Chairman of the recently constituted Sixteenth Finance Commission by
the President of India in pursuance to Article 280(1) of the Constitution?
[a] N K Singh
[b] Raghuram Rajan
[c] Arvind Panagariya
[d] Sumitra Mahajan
[e] Montek Singh Ahluwalia

Solution: [c]
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16 Finance
th

Commission
President of India has constituted the
Sixteenth Finance Commission, in pursuance
to Article 280(1) of the Constitution.
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About 16th Finance Commission

• Chairman: Dr Arvind Panagariya (former Vice-Chairman, NITI
Aayog).
• Terms of References: It will make recommendations on the
following matters
▪ Distribution between the Union and the States of the net
proceeds of taxes and the allocation between the States of
the respective shares of such proceeds.
▪ Principles governing the grants-in-aid of the revenues of the
States out of the Consolidated Fund of India under Article
275 of the Constitution
▪ Measures needed to augment the Consolidated Fund of a
State to supplement the resources of the Panchayats and
Municipalities.
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About 16th Finance Commission

▪ It may review present arrangements for financing Disaster

Management initiatives concerning the funds constituted
under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

• Duration: The 16th FC has been requested to make its report

available by October 2025 covering a period of five years
commencing from April 2026.
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Q3: Whom amongst the following are not eligible to open an

account under the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana?
[a] 1 and 4 Only
(1) Girl child whose second SSY account is being opened along
with the first operational account [b] 2, 3 and 4 Only
(2) NRI Parents of girl child studying abroad [c] 2 and 3 Only
(3) Resident Indian Family opening third SSY account for their [d] 1, 2 and 3 Only
third daughter [e] All of the above
(4) Girl child who has attained the age of 12 years during the
opening of the account

Solution: [e]
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Sukanya Samriddhi
Scheme
Ministry of Finance has increased the
interest rate on the Sukanya Samriddhi
Yojana (SSY) Account by 20 basis points
from 8% to 8.2% for January - March
2024 quarter (Q4FY24) i.e. from January
1, 2024 to March 31, 2024.
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About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

• Objective: To promote the education of girl children.

• Launch Year: It was launched in 2015 under Government’s

“Beti Bachao Beti Padhao'' campaign.

• Eligibility:
▪ The girl must be an Indian resident.
▪ The account can be initiated by the parent or legal
guardian of the girl child.
▪ The girl child must be below the age of 10 at the time of
opening the account.
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About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

• Limitations/Exclusion
▪ Only one SSY account is allowed per girl child
▪ A family is limited to opening a maximum of two SSY
accounts
▪ NRIs are not eligible to open this account

• Deposits under SSY account

▪ Minimum deposit: Rs 250
▪ Maximum deposit: Rs 1,50,000 in a financial year

• SSY Account Maturity: It matures after 21 years from opening

date or upon account holder's marriage, whichever is earlier
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About Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

• Partial Withdrawal for SSY account:

▪ Up to 50% of the amount in the account at the end of the

FY preceding the year of application for the education of
the account holder.

▪ Such withdrawal shall be allowed only after the account

holder has attained the age of 18 years or has passed the
10th standard, whichever is earlier.
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Q4: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has initiated an Information, Education, and
Communication (IEC) campaign for the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha
Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) to reach out to ____________ Particularly Vulnerable Tribal
Groups (PVTG) majority tribal habitations and PVTG families in __________ districts
across the country. Fill the gaps
[a] 13000, 100
[b] 15000, 110
[c] 18000, 130
[d] 20000, 150
[e] 22000, 200

Solution: [e]
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Q5: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has partnered with Amrita
Vishwa Vidyapeetham to launch the AVSAR Project to facilitate skill training and boost
employment prospects for women in which sector?
[a] Food Processing
[b] Information Technology
[c] Apparel
[d] Leather
[e] Health services

Solution: [c]
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Q6: The Union Cabinet has approved MoU between India and which country for
Cooperation in Broadcasting?
[a] Singapore
[b] Malaysia
[c] Indonesia
[d] Vietnam
[e] Cambodia

Solution: [b]
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Q7: Which online e-mentoring platform has been developed by the Ministry of Skill
Development and Entrepreneurship to handhold and guide aspiring and existing
entrepreneurs and facilitate online mentoring services?
[a] UdyamDisha
[b] StarSkill
[c] SkillSupport
[d] UdayMaitri
[e] UmeedBhavisya

Solution: [a]
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Q8: With which logistics platform has the Directorate General of Foreign Trade recently
signed an MoU for enhancing e-commerce outreach?
[a] Delhivery
[b] Bluedart
[c] Walmart
[d] Amazon
[e] Shiprocket

Solution: [e]
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Q9: Which Ministry has announced extending the benefit of the Scheme for Remission
of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) to e-commerce exports through
courier and postal exports?
[a] Ministry of MSME
[b] Ministry of Finance
[c] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[d] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[e] Ministry of Heavy Industries

Solution: [c]
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Q10: Where has Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah recently
laid the foundation stone of the headquarters of National Cooperative Dairy Federation
of India (NCDFI) Limited?
[a] New Delhi
[b] Aurangabad
[c] Patna
[d] Varanasi
[e] Gandhinagar

Solution: [e]
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