National

On March 30, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Bharat Ratna Awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and P V Narasimha Rao, Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, and Eminent Scientist M. S. Swaminathan were given Bharat Ratna posthumously. Former Deputy Prime Minister and Veteran BJP leader L K Advani was also given the top civilian award of the country.

Q: Which former Prime Ministers were awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously on March 30, 2024?

a) Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi
b) Rajiv Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee
c) Chaudhary Charan Singh and P V Narasimha Rao
d) Morarji Desai and V P Singh

Ans : c) Chaudhary Charan Singh and P V Narasimha Rao

Sadanand Vasant Date, a senior IPS officer, has been appointed as the Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

1. Date, a 1990-batch Indian Police Service officer, currently serves as the Chief of Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).
2. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved Date’s appointment for a tenure up to his superannuation on December 31, 2026.
3. Rajeev Kumar Sharma, a 1990 batch Rajasthan Cadre IPS officer, has been appointed as the Director General of Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D).
4. Piyush Anand, an IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Anand is currently serving as the Special DG of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Q: Who has been appointed as the Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA)?

a) Sadanand Vasant Date
b) Rajeev Kumar Sharma
c) Piyush Anand
d) Nina Singh

Ans : Sadanand Vasant Date

Q: Who has been appointed as the Director General of Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D)?

a) Sadanand Vasant Date
b) Rajeev Kumar Sharma
c) Piyush Anand
d) Nina Singh

Ans : b) Rajeev Kumar Sharma

Q: Who has been appointed as the Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)?

a) Sadanand Vasant Date
b) Rajeev Kumar Sharma
c) Piyush Anand
d) Nina Singh

Ans : c) Piyush Anand

Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi was sworn-in as the judicial member of Lokpal on March 27, 2024.

1. The oath was administered by Justice A. M. Khanwilkar, who is the Chairperson of Lokpal of India.
2. Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Tirkey also took oath as members of Lokpal on the same day.
3. These appointments were made due to the completion of tenure of existing members on March 26, 2024.
4. Before joining Lokpal, Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi served as the Chairperson of the 22nd Law Commission of India and previously as the Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court.
5. Pankaj Kumar is a 1986 batch IAS officer from Gujarat cadre, previously serving as the Chief Secretary of Gujarat.
6. Ajay Tirkey, a 1987 batch IAS officer from Madhya Pradesh cadre, was serving as Secretary of the Department of Land Resources, Government of India, before joining Lokpal.
7. Praveen Kumar Srivastava, Central Vigilance Commissioner, and other senior officials of CBI and ED attended the swearing-in ceremony.

Q: Who was sworn-in as the judicial member of Lokpal on March 27, 2024?

a) Justice A. M. Khanwilkar
b) Pankaj Kumar
c) Ajay Tirkey
d) Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi

Ans : d) Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi

Q: Who is the Chairperson of Lokpal of India?

a) Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi
b) Praveen Kumar Srivastava
c) Justice A. M. Khanwilkar
d) Pankaj Kumar

Ans : c) Justice A. M. Khanwilkar

The Election Commission utilizes the cVIGIL app to monitor the election process and address violations of the model code of conduct effectively.

1. The cVIGIL app allows citizens to record, report, and resolve instances of model code of conduct violations by submitting online complaints, including photos and videos.
2. It has emerged as a powerful tool for citizens to flag election code violations and report both model code of conduct and expenditure violations.
3. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar highlighted the empowerment of citizens through the cVIGIL app, ensuring action within 100 minutes upon receiving complaints.
4. The cVIGIL app is user-friendly, connecting vigilant citizens with relevant authorities such as the District Control Room, Returning Officer, and Flying Squads Teams.
5. Citizens can report incidents of political misconduct promptly through the app, avoiding the need to visit the returning officer’s office.
6. Upon submitting a complaint via the cVIGIL app, the complainant receives a unique ID for tracking the progress of the complaint on their mobile device.

Q: What is the name of the app of Election Commission of India used for reporting violations of the model code of conduct?

a) cTRACK
b) cVIGIL
c) cREPORT
d) cELECT

Ans : b) cVIGIL

The Union Public Service Commission has decided to postpone the Civil Service Preliminary Examination 2024.

The exam was scheduled to be held on 26th May 20224. The Commission has decided to postpone the schedule due to the ensuing General Elections.

The Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2024 which also serves as screening test for Indian Forest Service Examination, 2024 will now be held on 16th June 2024.

Q: Why has the Union Public Service Commission decided to postpone the Civil Service Preliminary Examination 2024?

a) Due to administrative issues
b) Due to the pandemic
c) Due to the General Elections
d) Due to lack of applicants

Ans : c) Due to the General Elections

The Startup Mahakumbh, held from 18 to 20 March 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, has attracted significant participation from leading investors, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

With over two thousand startups and more than one thousand investors involved, the event has facilitated vibrant discussions, networking, and addresses by industry leaders and policymakers. The event aims to promote collaborations and partnerships among stakeholders.

The event features 10 thematic pavilions focusing on various sectors, providing a platform for fostering connections and showcasing innovative products and services developed by startups.

Q: What is the primary purpose of the Startup Mahakumbh held from 18 to 20 March 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi?

a) To provide a platform for startups to sell their products
b) To facilitate networking between investors and entrepreneurs
c) To organize workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs
d) To conduct research on startup ecosystems

Ans : b) To facilitate networking between investors and entrepreneurs

Vinay Kumar, an IFS officer of the 1992 batch, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Russia. He was serving as India’s ambassador to Myanmar. His appointment fills the vacancy left by the earlier ambassador, Pavan Kapoor, who was appointed as secretary (west) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

India-Russia relations have been a longstanding and time-tested partnership, making this role crucial in steering diplomatic ties between the two nations. Moscow, along with other major capitals like Washington, London, Tokyo, and Canberra, is among the top postings for Indian diplomats.

Q: Who has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Russia?

A) Sanjay Kumar
B) Pavan Kapoor
C) Renee Singh
D) Vinay Kumar

Ans : D) Vinay Kumar

Sheetal Devi, a Para Archer and Arjuna Awardee, has been announced as the National PwD Icon by the Election Commission.

1. The announcement was made during an Exhibition Cricket Match between the Indian Deaf Cricket Association Team and the Delhi and District Cricket Association team held in Delhi on March 17, 2024.
2. The match was organized by the Election Commission in collaboration with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to promote voter education and inclusivity.
3. The event was attended by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.
4. Alongside the announcement, the Election Commission launched a dedicated Voter’s Guide for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and Senior Citizen Electors.
5. The Voter’s Guide provides essential information regarding provisions available to PwDs and senior citizens, including details about infrastructure, information, and procedures at polling stations.

Q: Who has been announced as the National PwD Icon by the Election Commission?

a) Sheetal Devi
b) Avani Lekhara
c) Gyanesh Kumar
d) Pramod Bhagat

Ans : a) Sheetal Devi

Navneet Kumar Sehgal appointed as new Prasar Bharati Chairman on March 16, 2024.

1. Sehgal is a retired IAS officer from the 1988 batch of the UP cadre.
2. He succeeds A Surya Prakash, whose term as Chairman ended in 2020.
3. His appointment came after the Selection Committee for Chairman of Prasar Bharati, led by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, approved his name. He is appointmented by President Droupadi Murmu.

Q: Who recently took charge as the new Chairman of Prasar Bharati?

a) A Surya Prakash
b) Navneet Kumar Sehgal
c) Jagdeep Dhankhar
d) Piyush Goyal

Ans : b) Navneet Kumar Sehgal

Retired IAS officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu have been appointed as Election Commissioners.

The posts of the two Election Commissioners were vacant after the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey and the resignation of Arun Goel.

Prior to this appointment, the Election Commission had only one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Rajiv Kumar.

Q: Who among the following have been recently appointed as an Election Commissioner in India?

A) Umesh Sinha and Gyanesh Kumar
B) Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar
C) Sunil Arora and Sukhbir Sandhu
D) Sushil Chandra and Rajiv Kumar

Ans : B) Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar

On March 12, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed the “Bharat Shakti” exercise held in Pokhran. This exercise showcased the capabilities of indigenously manufactured defense weapons as part of the “atma nirbharta” (self-reliance) campaign. The demonstration highlighted the integrated firepower and maneuvering capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force at the Pokhran field firing range.

During the exercise, the indigenous prowess of the three services was demonstrated through a variety of weaponry. The skies reverberated with the sounds of the LCA Tejas and ALH Mk-IV helicopters, showcasing the aerial capabilities. On the ground, main battle tanks such as the Arjun and K-9 Vajra, as well as artillery gun systems like the Dhanush and Sharang, dominated the firing ranges, demonstrating the ground-based firepower.

Q: What is Exercise Bharat Shakti held in Pokhran on 12 March 2024? 

A) A yoga and meditation event held annually in India.
B) A military exercise showcasing indigenous defense capabilities.
C) A cultural festival celebrating India’s rich heritage.
D) A scientific expedition to Antarctica.

Answer: B) A military exercise showcasing indigenous defense capabilities.

On March 12, 2024, Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, inaugurated Fly91, a regional airline. The Minister flagged off its maiden flight between Manohar International Airport (MOPA) in Goa and the Agatti Islands, Lakshadweep.

Fly91’s scheduled flights are set to commence from March 18, 2024. Initially, the airline will operate routes between Manohar International Airport, Goa, and cities such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jalgaon, Agatti, Pune, and Nanded. Subsequently, additional connections will be established from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune to Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Nanded, and Goa. These new routes aim to enhance connectivity across the nation, boost tourism, facilitate trade, and provide passengers with an affordable, safe, and hassle-free travel experience.

Q: What is Fly91?

• A) A new regional airline
• B) A popular tourist destination
• C) A type of bird
• D) A fictional superhero

Answer: A) A new regional airline

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a paramilitary force, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the assets and infrastructure of our nation. On March 10, every year, the CISF commemorates its establishment with CISF Raising Day.

This year Celebration to marks the 55th anniversary of CISF will take place at RTC Bhilai on March 12th, 2024. Hon’ble MoS (Home) Nityanand Rai to be Chief Guest.

History of CISF:

• The need for specialized security forces in critical sectors led to the establishment of the CISF.
• Under the CISF Act, 1968, the force was formed to address these growing security needs.
• Initially, the CISF had only three battalions and 2,800 personnel. Over time, it has grown to become one of the largest and strongest security forces in India, with 165,000 personnel.
• The CISF’s primary responsibilities include safeguarding government infrastructure projects, industrial establishments, and public sector undertakings.

Q: When is CISF Raising Day celebrated annually?

a) March 12th
b) March 10th
c) March 15th
d) March 20th

Ans : b) March 10th

INS Jatayu, a new naval base, was commissioned at Minicoy Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago on March 6, 2024.

• Minicoy Island is strategically important due to its location in the Arabian Sea and its position along vital sea lines of communication.
• The commissioning of INS Jatayu strengthens India’s naval presence in the Lakshadweep region and enhances operational capabilities.
• The naval base extends India’s operational reach, surveillance capabilities, and contributes to comprehensive development by improving connectivity between the islands and the mainland.
• The commissioning ceremony was attended by Admiral R Hari Kumar (Chief of Naval Staff), Shri Praful K Patel (Hon’ble Administrator of Lakshadweep), and Vice Admiral V Srinivas (Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command).

Q: What is INS Jatayu?

a) A new aircraft carrier commissioned by the Indian Navy
b) A naval base commissioned at Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep
c) A submarine deployed in the Indian Ocean
d) A missile destroyer inducted into the Indian Navy

Ans : b) A naval base commissioned at Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep

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

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

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

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

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