Author name: Ajay Gulia

"Ajay Kumar Gulia is the lead editor at gknow.in. With a deep background in competitive exam coaching, he has helped thousands of students stay updated with daily current affairs. He meticulously vets every MCQ to ensure it meets the standards of UPSC and SSC boards."

PM Modi presented first ever “National Creators Award” in New Delhi

The National Creators Award, a prestigious recognition, was presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on 8 March 2024. This inaugural award aims to celebrate excellence and impact across various domains, including storytelling, social change advocacy, environmental sustainability, education, and gaming. It serves as a launchpad for using creativity to drive positive change.

The award witnessed remarkable public engagement, with over 1.5 lakh nominations received across twenty categories. In the subsequent voting round, approximately 10 lakh votes were cast for digital creators in various award categories. The winners, including three international creators, were selected based on this overwhelming public participation, truly reflecting the people’s choice.

Here are some of the twenty award categories:

  1. Best Storyteller Award
  2. Disruptor of the Year
  3. Celebrity Creator of the Year
  4. Green Champion Award
  5. Best Creator for Social Change
  6. Most Impactful Agri Creator
  7. Cultural Ambassador of the Year
  8. International Creator Award
  9. Best Travel Creator Award
  10. Swachhta Ambassador Award
  11. The New India Champion Award
  12. Tech Creator Award
  13. Heritage Fashion Icon Award
  14. Most Creative Creator (Male & Female)
  15. Best Creator in Food Category
  16. Best Creator in Education Category
  17. Best Creator in Gaming Category
  18. Best Micro Creator
  19. Best Nano Creator
  20. Best Health and Fitness Creator

Q: Which “National Creators Award” category honors creators making a significant contribution to environmental sustainability?

a) Best Storyteller Award
b) Disruptor of the Year
c) Green Champion Award
d) Tech Creator Award

Ans : c) Green Champion Award

Sahityotsav, the world’s largest literary festival from March 11th to 16th 2024

Sahityotsav, the world’s largest literary festival organized by Sahitya Akademi, will be held from March 11th to 16th 2024.

  • Commemorating 70 years of Sahitya Akademi, the festival will feature over a hundred renowned writers and scholars.
  • More than 190 sessions will take place, representing over 175 languages of India.
  • The Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023 presentation ceremony will be a highlight on March 12th in New Delhi, with distinguished Odia writer Pratibha Rai as the Chief Guest.
  • Renowned Urdu writer and lyricist Gulzar will deliver the Samvatsar lecture on March 13th.
  • Key highlights of the festival include multilingual poetry reading, short story reading, panel discussions on various literary topics like Bhakti Literature, Children’s Literature, Tribal Poets’ and Writers’ Meet, etc.
  • Special programs include All India Differently Abled Writers’ Meet, LGBTQ Writers’ Meet, Seminar on the birth centenary of Mir Taqi Mir, and a symposium on Gopichand Narang.
  • Activities for children include painting competitions, literary quizzes, and other competitions expected to involve over a thousand participants from Delhi and NCR.

Q: What is the name of the world’s largest literary festival organized by Sahitya Akademi in March 2024 in New Delhi?

a) Sahitya Mahotsav
b) Kavyotsav
c) Sahityotsav
d) Kathautsav

Correct answer: c) Sahityotsav

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the remarkable contributions of women worldwide. Let’s delve into the significance and theme for International Women’s Day 2024:

History: International Women’s Day originated from women’s movements in the early 20th century. Designated by the United Nations in 1975, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality.

2024 Theme: Inspire Inclusion: The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion”.

Q: What is the date of International Women’s Day?

A) March 8
B) April 15
C) May 1
D) June 21

A) March 8

United States Presidential Election 2024: Nikki Haley Suspends Campaign, Trump Emerges as Leading Republican Candidate

Nikki Haley, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Republican candidate, has suspended her 2024 presidential campaign.

  • Donald Trump remains the last major candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination following Haley’s decision.
  • The 2024 United States presidential election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.
  • President Joe Biden running for re-election as a Democrat and Donald Trump seeking re-election as a Republican.
  • If both Biden and Trump are nominated, it would mark the first presidential rematch since 1956, with Trump becoming the first former president on the ballot since 1912.

Q: Who remains as the leading Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential nomination after Nikki Haley’s exit?

a) Joe Biden
b) Nikki Haley
c) Donald Trump
d) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Ans : c) Donald Trump

President Droupadi Murmu Conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards To Ninety-Four Eminent Artists

President Droupadi Murmu conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for the Years 2022 and 2023 to ninety-four eminent artists in New Delhi on 6 March 2024.

  • Awards were given in various fields such as music, dance, drama, folk and tribal arts, puppetry, and allied theatre art forms.
  • Seven eminent artists were bestowed with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (Akademi Ratna).
  • Union Minister for Culture G Kishan Reddy hailed the awards as an honor for the entire field of art and praised the Akademi’s efforts in promoting and protecting Indian arts.
  • Notable recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship included Vinayak Khedekar, R Visweswaran, Nitu Kumari Nootan, Shailesh Shrivastava, and Maddali Usha Gayatri.
  • The fellowship is the highest honor in the performing arts field, recognizing exceptional contributions with a purse money of three lakh rupees, while the Akademi Award carries a purse money of one lakh rupees.

Q: What fields were the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards given in?

a) Music only
b) Dance only
c) Multiple fields including music, dance, drama, and folk arts
d) Literature

Ans : c) Multiple fields including music, dance, drama, and folk arts

Yatin Bhaskar Duggal from Haryana Wins First Prize in National Youth Parliament Festival 2024

Yatin Bhaskar Duggal from Haryana secured the first prize in the National Youth Parliament Festival 2024, with Vaishna Pitchai from Tamil Nadu and Kanishka Sharma from Rajasthan claiming the second and third prizes respectively.

  • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the importance of youth in India’s progress towards becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, highlighting their thinking capability, innovation, and work ethic. He stressed India’s role in leading the world.
  • The finals of the Youth Parliament saw the participation of eighty-seven State-level winners in New Delhi.

Q: Who won the first prize in the National Youth Parliament Festival 2024?

a) Vaishna Pitchai
b) Kanishka Sharma
c) Yatin Bhaskar Duggal
d) Om Birla

ans : c) Yatin Bhaskar Duggal

Shehbaz Sharif sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan

Shehbaz Sharif was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan on 4 March 2024.

  • Background:
    • Shehbaz Sharif hails from the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) party.
    • He emerged as the nominated candidate of a new eight-party coalition formed after no single party secured an outright majority in the election held on February 8.
    • His opponent was Omer Ayub, representing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, which will now serve as the opposition in parliament.
  • Previous Stint as Prime Minister:
    • Shehbaz Sharif previously held the position of Prime Minister from April 2022 until August 2023. His tenure began after the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
  • Formation of Coalition:
    • Following the contentious February election, the PML-N engaged in negotiations with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and other smaller parties.
    • The coalition agreement stipulated that Shehbaz Sharif would serve as Prime Minister, while Asif Ali Zadari of the PPP would assume the role of President.
    • Smaller parties joining the coalition were promised cabinet posts.

Q: Who was recently sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan?

A) Nawaz Sharif
B) Imran Khan
C) Shehbaz Sharif
D) Asif Ali Zadari

Correct Answer: C) Shehbaz Sharif

Q: Which political party does Shehbaz Sharif belong to?

A) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
B) Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)
C) Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N)
D) Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

Correct Answer: C) Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N)

India’s first underwater metro rail service in Kolkata inaugurated by PM Modi

On March 6, 2024,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first-ever underwater metro section in Kolkata. This remarkable feat of engineering spans a distance of 16.6 kilometers beneath the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata’s twin cities: Howrah and Salt Lake.

Here are the key points about this groundbreaking project:

  1. Underwater Marvel:
    • The metro tunnel runs beneath the River Hooghly, making it the first transportation tunnel under any mighty river in India.
    • The Howrah Metro Station, located beneath the river, is the deepest station in the country, with tunnels extending 32 meters below the water level.
    • The underwater metro section covers a 520-meter stretch under the river, allowing commuters to traverse this distance in just 45 seconds.
  2. East-West Metro Corridor:
    • The underwater metro is part of the East-West Metro corridor, linking Howrah Maidan to the IT hub Salt Lake Sector V.
    • In April 2023, Kolkata Metro made history by running a train through the tunnel under the Hooghly River as part of trials, a first in India. This section is 4.8 kilometers long and connects Howrah Maidan to the Esplanade.
  3. Automatic Train Operation (ATO):
    • The metro uses a system called Automatic Train Operation (ATO). After the motorman presses a button, the train moves automatically to the next station.
    • Out of the total 16.6 kilometers of the East-West Metro, 10.8 kilometers are underground, including the tunnel under the Hooghly River. The rest is above ground.

Q: Which station is the deepest in the underwater metro system?

A) Salt Lake Sector V
B) Howrah Maidan
C) Esplanade
D) Howrah Metro Station

Answer: D) Howrah Metro Station

Q: Which river does the underwater metro tunnel pass beneath?

A) Yamuna
B) Ganges
C) Brahmaputra
D) Hooghly

Answer: D) Hooghly

‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ for Farmers’ Fair Prices and Easy Warehousing launched by Piyush Goyal

The ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative was launched on March 4, 2024 by Shri Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Commerce and Industry, and Textiles.

The ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ is initiative of Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA).

‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative will ease the farmers’ warehousing logistics with the help of technology and aid the farmers in receiving fair prices for their produce. 

Q: What is the primary objective of the ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ initiative?

  • A) To promote organic farming
  • B) To ease farmers’ warehousing logistics
  • C) To provide subsidies for fertilizers
  • D) To enhance irrigation facilities

Ans : Answer: B To ease farmers’ warehousing logistics

France becomes the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution

France becomes the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution.

  • The amendment is passed by French lawmakers with an overwhelming majority of 780 to 72 in a special session of both houses of Parliament.
  • The amendment guarantees freedom to abortion in France.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron announces a formal ceremony to celebrate the passage of the amendment on International Women’s Rights Day, which falls on Friday.
  • Abortion has been legal in France since 1975 under a law named after Simone Veil, the health minister who advocated for it. Initially allowing abortion up to the tenth week of pregnancy, it was extended to the twelfth week in 2001 and further to the fourteenth week in 2022. The procedure has been covered by France’s national healthcare system since the 1980s.

Q: What is the first country globally to embed abortion rights into its constitution?

a) United States
b) France
c) Canada
d) United Kingdom

Correct answer: b) France

RBI to Launch Interoperable Payment System for Internet Banking in 2024

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to launch interoperable payment system for internet banking in 2024.

  • System will be implemented by NPCI Bharat BillPay and aims to facilitate quicker settlement of funds for merchants.
  • This addresses delays and settlement risks for merchants using payment aggregators for internet banking transactions.
  • India accounts for nearly 46% of global digital transactions and UPI is the leading payment system with close to 80% share.
  • UPI transactions have grown significantly and new user registrations are increasing.
  • RBI emphasizes trust in digital payments is built on transparency, ease of use, and security and promotes awareness programs.

Q. Which organization will be responsible for implementing the new interoperable payment system?

a) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
c) NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (Correct)
d) Payment Aggregators (PAs)

Ans : b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

Amrit Udyan of Rashtrapati Bhavan open for public viewing till 31st of March

Udyan Utsav 2024, India’s flowering extravaganza at Amrit Udyan, is open to the public from February 2nd to March 31st, 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

  • Amrit Udyan spans 15 acres and is considered the soul of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, comprising various gardens including East Lawn, Central Lawn, Long Garden, Circular Garden, Herbal-I, Herbal-II, Tactile Garden, Bonsai Garden, and Arogya Vanam.
  • This edition of Udyan Utsav 2024 features Tulips, Daffodils, Asiatic Lily, Oriental Lily, and other rare seasonal flowers, with the key attractions being the floral patterns of Tulips and over 100 varieties of Roses.
  • Visitors can explore multiple attractions including Bal Vatika, a garden for children with a 225-year-old Sheesham tree, a treehouse, and Nature’s classroom. Other attractions include Bonsai, Circular Gardens, and a vibrant food court with ongoing exhibitions.
  • The gardens are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM) and entry is from Gate No. 35 of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, near North Avenue.
  • On specific days (February 26th, 27th, March 1st, and 5th, 2024), the Udyan will be open only for special visitations from select diverse groups. The Gardens will be closed on all Mondays for maintenance and on Holi (March 25th, 2024) for a Gazetted Holiday.

Q: What is Udyan Utsav 2024, celebrated at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, from February 2nd to March 31st, 2024?

a) A music festival
b) A flowering extravaganza
c) A food carnival
d) A cultural exhibition

Ans : b) A flowering extravaganza

DefConnect 2024 to encourage indigenous defence innovation

Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on 4 March 2024.

  • The event aims to encourage indigenous defence innovation and marks a significant milestone in the country’s defence innovation landscape.
  • DefConnect 2024 brings together key stakeholders including the Armed Forces, defence industry leaders, start-ups, academia, and policymakers.
  • Its goal is to facilitate meaningful engagements, showcase cutting-edge technologies, and foster collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the Defence sector.
  • It is being organised by Innovations for Defence Excellence-Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO), under the Department of Defence Production.
  • The iDEX framework enables military personnel to collaborate with innovators in a co-development model.
  • iDEX was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018 to provide a unified platform for stakeholders in the defence and aerospace sectors, overseeing technology development and potential collaborations.

Q: What is the primary objective of DefConnect 2024?

a) To promote international defence cooperation
b) To showcase defence procurement procedures
c) To encourage indigenous defence innovation
d) To facilitate diplomatic engagements

Ans : c) To encourage indigenous defence innovation

World Wildlife Day : Every year on 3rd of March

World Wildlife Day, held annually on March 3rd, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the immense value of wild animals and plants. This year’s theme, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” highlights the critical role technology can play in protecting our planet’s precious biodiversity.

Theme for World Wildlife Day 2024: Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.

Q: What is the main theme of World Wildlife Day 2024?

a) Celebrating the beauty of wildlife
b) Exploring the dangers of climate change
c) Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation
d) Raising awareness about illegal wildlife trade

Ans : c) Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation

Dharma Path: Connecting Jaunpur, Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mirzapur

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, laid the foundation stone of Dharma Path in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh on March 1, 2024.

  1. The Dharma Path will link Jaunpur with Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mirzapur.
  2. A four-lane road costing 3,405 crore rupees will be built from Hauz to Purvanchal University and from Purvanchal University to Shahganj.

Q: What is the purpose of the Dharma Path project in Uttar Pradesh?

a) To connect rural villages with urban centers
b) To improve transportation infrastructure in Jaunpur
c) To connect Jaunpur with Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mirzapur
d) To construct highways for industrial development

Ans : c) To connect Jaunpur with Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mirzapur

National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC) launched to Empower Urban Cooperative Banking Sector

Amit Shah launched the National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC) in New Delhi on March 2, 2024.

  1. The NUCFDC serves as the umbrella organization for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs).
  2. The initiative aligns with the goal of ‘Sahakar se Samriddhi’ to foster self-reliance in India.
  3. The aim is to modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector.
  4. NUCFDC has received a Certificate of Registration from the Reserve Bank of India to function as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC).
  5. It will also operate as a Self-Regulatory Organization for the sector.
  6. NUCFDC will provide specialized functions and services to cooperative banks, facilitate communication between banks and regulators, and address challenges faced by UCBs.

Q: What does NUCFDC stand for?

a) National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation
b) National Union of Cooperative Financial Development Corporations
c) National Unified Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation
d) None of the above

Ans : a) National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation

Q: What is the primary goal of the NUCFDC?

a) To regulate rural cooperative banks
b) To strengthen the agricultural sector
c) To modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector
d) To promote digital payments in urban areas

Ans : c) To modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector

Khelo India University Games 2023 : Chandigarh University emerged as the overall champion

The Khelo India University Games 2023 concluded on February 29, 2024, in Guwahati.

  1. Chandigarh University emerged as the overall champion of the games with 71 medals, including 32 gold, 18 silver, and 21 bronze.
  2. Chandigarh University’s boxers contributed significantly to their victory, securing five gold, one silver, and four bronze medals.
  3. Lovely Professional University and Guru Nanak Dev University secured the second and third positions, respectively.
  4. Defending champions Panjab University finished fourth, with notable achievements in boxing.
  5. Jain University, known for dominance in swimming, finished fifth overall.
  6. Chandigarh University’s success was attributed to its performance across various sports, including wrestling, athletics, weightlifting, swimming, fencing, kabaddi, rugby, judo, and badminton.
  7. Swimmer Pratyasa Ray of Utkal University and Xavier Michael Dsouza of Jain University were recognized as the most successful female and male athletes, respectively.
  8. Five new Games records were set in athletics during the event, showcasing outstanding performances by athletes from various universities.

Q: Which university clinched the overall championships in the 4th Khelo India University Games 2023?

a) Lovely Professional University
b) Guru Nanak Dev University
c) Chandigarh University
d) Jain University

Ans : c) Chandigarh University

Govt approves PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana for installing rooftop solar systems

Government approval for PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to install rooftop solar systems in one crore households with a total outlay of 75,021 crore rupees.

  1. Each household will receive 300 units of free electricity and have the opportunity to earn 15,000 rupees.
  2. The scheme aims to enable households to save on electricity bills and earn additional income by selling surplus power to DISCOMs.
  3. Anticipated addition of 30 GW of solar capacity through rooftop solar systems in the residential sector.

Q: What is the primary objective of the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana?

a) To provide free electricity to rural households
b) To install rooftop solar systems in one crore households
c) To provide financial assistance for agricultural activities
d) To provide subsidized fertilizers to farmers

Ans : b) To install rooftop solar systems in one crore households

Leopard population in the country has increased by more than 1,000 in last four years

The leopard population in the country has increased by more than one thousand from 2018 to 2022.

  1. The Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Ministry released a report indicating the leopard population has reached 13,874, up from 12,852 in 2018.
  2. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav released the report in New Delhi.
  3. Central India, particularly Madhya Pradesh, recorded the highest leopard population with 3,907 individuals.
  4. The fifth cycle leopard population estimation was conducted by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and Wildlife Institute of India in collaboration with State Forest Departments.
  5. This exercise is crucial for conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of Protected Areas in conserving leopard populations.

Q: Which Indian state recorded the highest leopard population according to the report?

a) Rajasthan
b) Kerala
c) Madhya Pradesh
d) Uttar Pradesh

Ans : c) Madhya Pradesh

Six eminent personalities named Akademi Fellows or Akademi Ratna by Sangeet Natak Akademi

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s national academy for music, dance, and drama, confers two prestigious awards to recognize and celebrate excellence in the performing arts:

  • Akademi Ratna (Akademi Fellow): This is the highest honor bestowed by the Akademi, limited to a maximum of 40 living individuals.
  • Akademi Puraskar (Akademi Award): This award recognizes outstanding contributions from artists across various performing arts disciplines.

On February 21-22, 2024, the General Council of the Sangeet Natak Akademi selected six eminent personalities as Akademi Fellows (Akademi Ratna):

  1. Vinayak Khedekar (Hindustani classical vocalist): A renowned exponent of the Agra gharana of Hindustani classical music, known for his soulful renditions and mastery of intricate taals.
  2. R. Visweswaran (Kathakali exponent): A prolific Kathakali artist and scholar, he has significantly contributed to the preservation and propagation of this classical dance form from Kerala.
  3. Sunayana Hazarilal (Odissi dancer): A leading Odissi dancer and choreographer, known for her grace, innovative interpretations, and dedication to promoting the dance form globally.
  4. Raja & Radha Reddy (Kuchipudi dancers): This husband-and-wife duo are legendary Kuchipudi dancers and teachers who have revolutionized the art form through their innovative choreography and dedication to its propagation.
  5. Dulal Roy (Folk singer and researcher): A renowned Baul singer and researcher from West Bengal, known for his evocative renditions and commitment to preserving and promoting Baul music, a mystical Bengali folk tradition.
  6. D.P. Sinha (Scholar and administrator): A distinguished scholar and administrator who has made significant contributions to the field of Indian theatre and performing arts through research, writing, and leadership roles.

These six individuals have enriched the Indian cultural landscape through their exceptional talent, dedication, and contributions to their respective art forms. They serve as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of India’s performing arts tradition.

Q. What is the highest honor bestowed by the Sangeet Natak Akademi?

  • a) Sangeet Natak Ratha
  • b) Akademi Purana
  • c) Akademi Ratna (Akademi Fellow)
  • d) Natya Natak Samman

Ans : c) Akademi Ratna (Akademi Fellow)

India’s Gaganyaan Mission and its Astronauts

India is poised to take a giant leap in its spacefaring journey with the ambitious Gaganyaan mission, its first human spaceflight program. Named after the Sanskrit word for “celestial vehicle,” Gaganyaan aims to send a crew of four astronauts into low Earth orbit for a three-day mission.

The Astronauts:

On February 27, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the identities of the four Indian Air Force pilots chosen for the prestigious mission:

  • Gp Capt Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair
  • Gp Capt Angad Prathap
  • Gp Capt Ajit Krishnan
  • Wg Cdr Shubanshu Shukla

These individuals have undergone rigorous training at the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) astronaut training facility in Bengaluru, preparing them for the physical and mental demands of space travel. While only three astronauts will form the crew for the first mission, all four individuals will continue their training, fostering a pool of qualified astronauts for future endeavors.

Mission Details:

While the initial crewed mission is targeted for 2025, India plans to launch its first uncrewed test flight of the Gaganyaan spacecraft before the end of 2024. This crucial step will provide valuable data on the spacecraft’s performance and pave the way for the historic crewed mission.

MCQs based on the passage on India’s Gaganyaan Mission:

1. What is the name of India’s first human spaceflight program?

  • a) Chandrayaan
  • b) Aditya-1
  • c) Gaganyaan
  • d) LVM3

Ans : c) Gaganyaan

2. What is the literal meaning of the word “Gaganyaan” in Sanskrit?

  • a) Lunar Chariot
  • b) Celestial Vehicle
  • c) Solar Probe
  • d) Orbital Station

Ans : b) Celestial Vehicle

3. How many astronauts will be part of the first crewed Gaganyaan mission?

  • a) 1
  • b) 2
  • c) 3
  • d) 4

Ans : c) 3

Sunil Bharti Mittal becomes the first Indian citizen to be conferred an honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King

Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has been conferred an honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King Charles III for his services to UK and India business relations. This prestigious recognition makes him the first Indian citizen to receive the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) under King Charles III.

In a list of honorary British awards, Mittal has been awarded the KBE, which is one of the highest honors conferred by a British monarch. The KBE is granted in an honorary capacity to foreign nationals who have made pre-eminent contributions in various fields of activity. While UK nationals receiving the Knighthood are titled Sir or Dame, non-UK nationals like Mittal add KBE (or DBE for women) after their names.

Q: Who is the first Indian to receive an honorary Knighthood under King Charles III?

A) Ratan Tata
B) Sachin Tendulkar
C) Sunil Bharti Mittal
D) Naredndra Modi

Ans : C) Sunil Bharti Mittal

National Science Day: February 28th

Celebrating Innovation and Discovery

Every year on February 28th, India observes National Science Day.expand_more This day commemorates the remarkable discovery of the “Raman Effect” by Indian physicist Sir C. V.expand_more Raman on the same date in 1928. This groundbreaking discovery earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, marking a significant milestone in Indian science.

2024 Theme: “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat”

This year’s National Science Day theme focuses on promoting the development and application of indigenous technologies for a developed and self-reliant India (“Viksit Bharat”).

MCQs on National Science Day

Q: National Science Day in India is celebrated on which date?

  • a) January 26th
  • b) February 28th
  • c) March 12th
  • d) May 11th

Ans : b) February 28th

Q: Which scientist is credited with the discovery of the “Raman Effect”?

  • a) S. N. Bose
  • b) Homi J. Bhabha
  • c) C. V. Raman
  • d) Vikram Sarabhai

Ans : c) C. V. Raman

Q: What year did Sir C. V. Raman win the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the Raman Effect?

  • a) 1928
  • b) 1930
  • c) 1935
  • d) 1940

Ans : a) 1928

New Lokpal of India : Justice AM Khanwilkar

  1. Justice AM Khanwilkar appointed as the new Lokpal of India by President Droupadi Murmu.
  2. Six members appointed alongside Justice Khanwilkar.
  3. Judicial Members of the Lokpal include Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Justice Sanjay Yadav, and Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi.
  4. Additional members of the Lokpal are Sushil Chandra, Pankaj Kumar, and Ajay Tirkey.

Q: Who has been appointed as the new Lokpal of India?

a) Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy
b) Justice AM Khanwilkar
c) President Droupadi Murmu
d) Sushil Chandra

Ans : b) Justice AM Khanwilkar

India’s first septic tank cleaning robot, named “Homosep Atom”

India’s first septic tank cleaning robot, named Homosep Atom, aims to eradicate manual scavenging and bolster the Swachhata Abhiyan across the nation.

  • Developed by a startup incubated in the Department of Science and Technology (DST)-Technology Business Incubator (TBI) of IIT Madras, this technology revolutionizes traditional manual cleaning methods into robotic ones.
  • The Ministry of Science and Technology highlighted in a statement that the Homosep Atom robot has been deployed in 16 cities across India.
  • Its capabilities include extensive blade cleaning, solid waste desilting, suction, and storage, all integrated into one device.

Q: What is the name of India’s first septic tank cleaning robot?

a) Swachhata Atom
b) Homosep Atom
c) RoboCleaner 1.0
d) Sanitech Pro

Ans : b) Homosep Atom

Three new Criminal Laws to become effective from July 1

The Centre announced that the provisions of three significant laws – Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 – will become effective on July 1, 2024.

  • The Home Ministry conveyed this information through a gazette notification.
  • These laws were passed by Parliament in December 2023.
  • Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 are slated to replace the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1898, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.

Q: When will the provisions of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 come into force?

a) July 1, 2023
b) July 1, 2024
c) January 1, 2023
d) December 31, 2023

Ans : b) July 1, 2024

Veteran singer Pankaj Udhas passes away

Veteran singer Pankaj Udhas passed away in Mumbai on February 26, 2024, at the age of 73, following a prolonged illness.

  • Pankaj Udhas was renowned for his ghazals, including hits like “Chitthi Aayi Hai” from Naam, “Na Kajre Ki Dhar” from Mohra, “Chandi Jaisa Rang”, “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar”, and “Ahista”.
  • Pankaj Udhas is survived by his wife Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, both of whom are also singers.

Q: What was Pankaj Udhas famous for?

a) Pop music
b) Bollywood item songs
c) Ghazals
d) Classical music

Ans : c) Ghazals

Country’s longest signature stayed bridge, ‘Sudarshan Setu’ inaugurated by PM Modi in Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the country’s longest signature stayed bridge, ‘Sudarshan Setu’, spanning about 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwatka island at Dwarka in Gujarat on 25 February 2024.

  1. The bridge is hailed as an engineering marvel and features footpaths adorned with verses from the Srimad Bhagavad Gita and images of Lord Krishna.
  2. Sudarshan Setu incorporates solar panels on its footpaths, generating one megawatt of electricity, and is expected to ease transportation and reduce travel time between Dwarka and Bet-Dwarka significantly.
  3. Previously, pilgrims had to rely on boat transport to reach Bet Dwarka, but the bridge will now provide easier access.
  4. The inauguration of Sudarshan Setu was accompanied by the launch and foundation laying for projects worth over 4150 crore rupees, including a pipeline project at Vadinar and three Rail Electrification projects.

Q: What is the name of the country’s longest signature stayed bridge, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat?

a) Bharati Setu
b) Sudarshan Setu
c) Dwarka Bridge
d) Vishwa Setu

Ans : b) Sudarshan Setu

Age of admission to Grade 1 is 6 plus years from 2024-25 session onwards

The Education Ministry has sent letters to all states and Union Territories (UTs) requesting them to ensure that the age of admission to Grade 1 is 6 years starting from the 2024-25 session.

  1. This directive aligns with the provisions outlined in both the National Education Policy 2020 and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.
  2. The Department of School Education and Literacy issued the letter on the 15th of the month, emphasizing the need for states and UTs to adjust the age requirement for Grade 1 admission accordingly for the upcoming 2024-25 session.

Q: According to the Education Ministry, from which academic session onwards should the age of admission to Grade 1 be 6 years?

a) 2026-27
b) 2023-24
c) 2024-25
d) 2025-26

Ans : c) 2024-25

Q: What legislation mandates the age of admission to Grade 1 to be 6 years?

a) National Education Policy Act
b) Right to Education Amendment Act
c) Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009
d) Educational Reforms Act, 2010

Ans : c) Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009

PM Narendra Modi inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, one of largest global textile events in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024 on February 26, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

  1. Bharat Tex 2024 is one of the largest-ever global textile events organized in India, with participation from over 100 countries.
  2. The event will feature over 65 knowledge sessions with more than 100 global panelists discussing various issues in the textile sector.
  3. It is expected to host major policymakers, global CEOs, over 3,500 exhibitors, and over 3,000 buyers.
  4. More than 40,000 business visitors are attending, along with students, weavers, artisans, and textile workers.

Q: Bharat Tex 2024 event, inaugurated by PM Modi in Feb 2024 in New Delhi is related to which sector:

a) Technology
b) Agriculture
c) Textiles
d) Tourism

Ans : c) Textiles

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