Current Affairs

World Sanskrit Day observed on Shravana Poornima (19 August 2024)

World Sanskrit Day, or Vishva-Samskrita-Dinam, is celebrated annually to honor the ancient Indian language, Sanskrit. Observed on Shravana Poornima, usually in August, this year it was celebrated on August 19, 2024.

The day emphasizes the revival and preservation of Sanskrit, a language of immense historical and cultural significance in India. Initiated by the Indian government in 1969, World Sanskrit Day features activities like poetry gatherings, seminars, and verse recitation competitions. The celebration often coincides with Raksha Bandhan, highlighting the cultural values embedded in Sanskrit literature.

Q.: When is World Sanskrit Day typically observed?

A) Makar Sankranti
B) Akshaya Tritiya
C) Shravana Poornima
D) Dushara

Answer: C) Shravana Poornima
World Sanskrit Day, or Vishva-Samskrita-Dinam, is celebrated annually to honor the ancient Indian language, Sanskrit. Observed on Shravana Poornima, usually coincides with Raksha Bandhan this year it was celebrated on August 19, 2024.

Hockey India retires jersey number 16 in honour of PR Sreejesh

Hockey India has retired jersey number 16 from the national senior men’s team in honour of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. The sports body said that no player from the senior team will wear jersey number 16. Sreejesh recently announced his retirement from Hockey after a successful Paris Olympics.

Sreejesh’s decision to retire came after an 18-year-long career that included securing back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in 2020 and 2024. Hockey India has also decided to appoint Sreejesh as the coach of the junior men’s hockey team.

Q.: What major achievement is associated with PR Sreejesh’s hockey career?

a) Winning a World Cup
b) Securing back-to-back Olympic bronze medals
c) Winning the Asian Games
d) Becoming the highest goal-scorer

Answer: b) Securing back-to-back Olympic bronze medals
Hockey India has retired jersey number 16 from the national senior men’s team in honour of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. Recently, Sreejesh decided to retire after an 18-year-long career that included securing back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in 2020 and 2024.

Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2024 Concludes Peacefully with Over 5 Lakh Pilgrims Participating

The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra concluded on August 19, 2024, in Jammu and Kashmir, with over 5 lakh pilgrims participating. The Yatra, which began on June 29, ended with the arrival of the holy mace “Chhari Mubarak” at the Shri Amarnath Ji Cave Shrine in the South Kashmir Himalayas, marking the formal end of the 43-day pilgrimage. The mace was carried by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Deependra Giri. Pilgrims visited the shrine using both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. The Yatra concluded peacefully on the occasion of Shravan-Punima, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan, with a pooja at sunrise.

Q.: On which occasion did the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2024 conclude?

a) Diwali
b) Maha Shivaratri
c) Shravan-Punima
d) Navratri

Answer: c) Shravan-Punima
The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra concluded on August 19, 2024, in Jammu and Kashmir, on the occasion of Shravan-Punima, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan, with a pooja at sunrise.

17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held in Beijing from August 8th to 16th, 2024

A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024. The four-member team, consisting of students from Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, competed in categories like the Earth System Project and International Team Field Investigation. Minister of State of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the team for their achievement. The Olympiad is a student-focused event organized under the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ REACHOUT scheme.

Q.: Where was the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held from August 8th to 16th, 2024?

a) Tokyo, Japan
b) Beijing, China
c) New Delhi, India
d) Seoul, South Korea

Answer: b) Beijing, China
A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024.

Voice of Global South Summit 2024 was hosted by India on August 17, 2024

The Voice of Global South Summit 2024 was hosted by India on August 17, 2024, with the theme “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.” The summit aimed to amplify the voices of developing nations and address their unique challenges and aspirations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s focus on cooperation in infrastructure, digital, and energy sectors to empower developing countries.

The summit provided a platform for discussing shared challenges like conflicts, food and energy security crises, and climate change, which disproportionately affect developing nations.

About the Voice of Global South

The Voice of Global South initiative was launched by India, with the first summit held on January 12-13, 2023.

Member Countries: The initiative includes over 100 countries from the Global South across various regions:

  • Latin America & Caribbean: 29 countries
  • Africa: 47 countries
  • Europe: 7 countries
  • Asia: 31 countries
  • Oceania: 11 countries

Q.: How many countries from the Global South are part of the Voice of Global South initiative?

a) Over 50 countries
b) Over 75 countries
c) Over 100 countries
d) Over 150 countries

Answer: c) Over 100 countries
The Voice of Global South initiative was launched by India, with the first summit held on January 12-13, 2023. The initiative includes over 100 countries from the Global South across various regions.

Assembly Elections in Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana: Schedule, Phases Announced

Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Haryana are scheduled for September and October 2024. J&K will hold elections in three phases, starting on 18th September, with subsequent phases on 25th September and 1st October. Haryana will conduct its elections in a single phase on 1st October. Counting for both states will take place on 4th October.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced the election schedule on 16th August 2024, highlighting the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct. He emphasized the commitment to inclusive and accessible elections, noting that over 87 lakh voters in J&K and over two crore voters in Haryana will participate.

In J&K, 11,800 polling stations will be set up, and the increased voter participation in recent Lok Sabha elections indicates a strengthening democracy. The CEC assured impartiality and adequate security measures for a free, fair, and peaceful election process in both regions.

Q.: When will the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir begin in three phases?

a) 1st September 2024
b) 18th September 2024
c) 25th September 2024
d) 1st October 2024

Ans : b) 18th September 2024
J&K will hold Assembly elections in three phases, starting on 18th September, with subsequent phases on 25th September and 1st October.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra elected as Thailand’s new Prime Minister

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old leader of the Pheu Thai party and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has been elected as Thailand’s new prime minister.

She is the youngest person to hold this position in the country. Her election follows the removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for a serious ethical breach related to bribery.

Paetongtarn is the third member of the Shinawatra family to become prime minister, after her father and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.

The Constitutional Court also recently dissolved the Move Forward party, which had won the last general election but was prevented from assuming power.

Q.: Who was elected as Thailand’s new prime minister at the age of 37?

a) Yingluck Shinawatra
b) Srettha Thavisin
c) Paetongtarn Shinawatra
d) Thaksin Shinawatra

Ans : c) Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old leader of the Pheu Thai party and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has been elected as Thailand’s new prime minister.

70th National Film Awards: Rishabh Shetty wins Best Actor for ‘Kantara’, ‘Aattam’ named Best Film

At the 70th National Film Awards, Rishab Shetty won the Best Actor award for his role in the film Kantara, which also received the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The film is set in a fictional village in Dakshina Kannada and follows Shetty’s character, a Kambala champion, in a clash with a Forest Range officer.

The Malayalam film Aattam, directed by Anand Ekarshi, won Best Feature Film, addressing sexual violence.

The Best Actress award was shared by Nithya Menen for Thiruchitrambalam and Manasi Parekh for Kutch Express.

Gulmohar, starring Manoj Bajpayee, was named Best Hindi Film and received a Special Mention. Directed by Rahul V. Chittella, it explores family dynamics as they prepare to leave their long-time home.

Veteran filmmaker Sooraj R. Barjatya won Best Director for Uunchai, with Neena Gupta winning Best Supporting Actress for the same film.

The awards, announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in New Delhi on 16 August 2024, recognized the best films and achievements of 2022, with the jury led by Rahul Rawail, Nila Madhab Panda, and Gangadhar Mudalair.

Q,: Who won the Best Actor award at the 70th National Film Awards for his performance in the film ‘Kantara’?

a) Manoj Bajpayee
b) Rishab Shetty
c) Suraj Sharma
d) Rahul V. Chittella

Ans : b) Rishab Shetty
At the 70th National Film Awards, Rishab Shetty won the Best Actor award for his role in the film Kantara, which also received the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

Q,: Which Malayalam film won the Best Feature Film award at the 70th National Film Awards?

a) Gulmohar
b) Uunchai
c) Aattam
d) Kantara

Ans : c) Aattam
The Malayalam film Aattam, directed by Anand Ekarshi, won Best Feature Film, addressing sexual violence.

ISRO launches its latest earth observation satellite, SSLV D3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Mission Details: The mission, named SSLV-D3/EOS-08, is the third and final developmental flight for the SSLV, after which the rocket will become fully operational.

SSLV Rocket: The SSLV rocket is shorter at 34 meters compared to the 44-meter tall PSLV rockets. It is designed to place mini, micro, or nano satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Payload: The satellites carried in the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission weigh 175.5 kg.

Key Features of SSLV: The SSLV provides low-cost access to space, offers low turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, and requires minimal launch infrastructure. The SSLV missions are expected to be 20-30% cheaper than PSLV missions, which use bigger rockets designed for deep space missions.

Q.: What is the name of the earth observation satellite launched by ISRO on 16 August 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.?

a) EOS-08
b) SSLV-D1
c) PSLV-C50
d) EOS-03

Answer: a) EOS-08
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

CAS dismissed Vinesh Phogat appeal for silver medal in the women’s 50kg event at the Paris Olympics

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application to be awarded a silver medal in the women’s 50kg event at the Paris Olympics was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Vinesh was disqualified from the final match after exceeding the 50kg weight limit by 100 grams.

Despite reaching the gold medal match by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, her disqualification prevented her from competing against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States. Vinesh had requested CAS to award her the silver medal, but her application was rejected.

Following the disqualification, she announced her retirement from wrestling.

Q.: Why was Vinesh Phogat disqualified from the women’s 50kg final at the Paris Olympics?

a) She was injured
b) She was late for the match
c) She exceeded the 50kg weight limit
d) She was disqualified due to a technical fault

Answer: c) She exceeded the 50kg weight limit
Vinesh was disqualified from the final match after exceeding the 50kg weight limit by 100 grams.

78th Independence Day: PM Modi outlines a series of futuristic goals

On August 15, 2024, during his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined India’s ambitious vision for the future. He emphasized the country’s goal to become a global leader in semiconductor production, reducing dependency on imports and enhancing technological self-sufficiency. Modi also focused on making India a hub for manufacturing, gaming, and design, with an aim to achieve ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047.

The Prime Minister revived the spirit of Nalanda University, advocating for India to become a global education center by promoting higher learning and research. He highlighted initiatives to train India’s youth and transform the country into a skill capital. Additionally, Modi stressed the importance of green jobs, combating climate change, and inducting new talent into the political system to fight nepotism and casteism.

Modi’s speech touched on various sectors, including banking, space, and defense, where India is making significant progress. He underscored the need for modern infrastructure, ease of living, and reducing government interference in people’s lives. The Prime Minister also addressed issues of women’s empowerment, violence against women, and the importance of a Uniform Civil Code.

In his address, Modi expressed concern over the situation in Bangladesh and reiterated India’s commitment to peaceful and prosperous relations with its neighbors. He announced plans to increase medical seats and emphasized the importance of skill development under the new education policy. Modi concluded his speech by expressing the nation’s gratitude to freedom fighters and highlighting India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics.

Q.: Which ancient institution’s spirit did Prime Minister Modi seek to revive during his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2024.

a) Takshashila University
b) Nalanda University
c) Vikramshila University
d) Aligarh University

Answer: b) Nalanda University
The Prime Minister revived the spirit of Nalanda University, advocating for India to become a global education center by promoting higher learning and research.

Q.: Which future event did Prime Minister Modi express India’s dream of hosting, during his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2024. ?

a) FIFA World Cup 2030
b) Commonwealth Games 2026
c) Olympics 2036
d) Asian Games 2034

Answer: c) Olympics 2036
During his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2024, PM Modi highlighting India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics.

India’s Ramsar Sites Count Reaches 85 with Three New Additions

India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85. Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance, designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

Importance of Ramsar Sites

Ramsar sites play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. These wetlands also provide essential services such as water purification, flood control, and groundwater replenishment. Additionally, they are vital for the livelihoods of local communities, offering resources like fish and plants.

Recent Additions

The three new Ramsar sites in India are:

  1. Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
  2. Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
  3. Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh

Distribution Across India

India’s Ramsar sites are spread across 18 states, with Tamil Nadu having the highest number at 18 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10. These sites cover a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude lakes in Ladakh to coastal wetlands in Tamil Nadu.

Notable Ramsar Sites

  • Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.
  • Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan: A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its avian population.
  • Sundarbans Wetland in West Bengal: Part of the largest mangrove forest in the world.

Q.: What is the total number of Ramsar sites in India after added three more wetlands in August 2024?

A) 75
B) 80
C) 85
D) 90

Ans : C) 85
India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85.

Q.: Which Ramsar site in India is known as Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon?

A) Keoladeo National Park
B) Sundarbans Wetland
C) Chilika Lake
D) Loktak Lake

Ans : C) Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.

Govind Mohan, IAS appointed as the new Union Home Secretary

Govind Mohan, IAS appointed as the new Union Home Secretary on 14 August 2024. He will succeed Ajay Kumar Bhalla whose tenure is going to end on 22nd August. A 1989 batch IAS Officer, Mr Mohan is currently Secretary in Culture Ministry. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his name.

Question: Who has been appointed as the new Union Home Secretary of India in August 2024, succeeding Ajay Kumar Bhalla?

a) Anil Kumar
b) Govind Mohan
c) Rajiv Kumar
d) Sanjay Verma

Answer: b) Govind Mohan
Govind Mohan, IAS appointed as the new Union Home Secretary on 14 August 2024. He will succeed Ajay Kumar Bhalla whose tenure is going to end on 22nd August.

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day : August 14

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, also known as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, is observed annually on August 14th in India. This day commemorates the victims and the immense suffering endured during the partition of India in 1947.

Historical Context

The partition of British India in 1947 led to the creation of two independent nations, India and Pakistan. This division was marked by intense communal violence, mass displacement, and significant loss of life. It is estimated that between 10 to 20 million people were displaced, and around 200,000 to 2 million people lost their lives.

Significance

The day was first observed in 2021, following an announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The purpose of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is to honor the memory of those who suffered and perished during this tragic period. It serves as a reminder of the need to overcome social divisions and promote unity, social harmony, and human empowerment.

Q.: When is Partition Horrors Remembrance Day observed?

A) August 15th
B) August 14th
C) January 26th
D) October 2nd

Ans : B) August 14th
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, also known as Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas, is observed annually on August 14th in India.

DRDO Successfully Tests Long Range Glide Bomb ‘GAURAV’ from Su-30 MK-I

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

GAURAV, an indigenously developed air-launched glide bomb weighing one thousand kilograms, accurately hit a target on Long Wheeler’s Island. Designed by the Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, this successful test marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance its indigenous defence capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement as a step forward in strengthening the Armed Forces.

Q: On August 13, 2024, DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight test of which indigenously developed glide bomb?

A) SHAURYA
B) PRAHAR
C) GAURAV
D) NIRBHAY

Answer: C) GAURAV
DRDO conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

Rape and Murder of Trainee Doctor at Kolkata Hospital Sparks National Outrage and CBI Investigation

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been tasked with investigating the rape and murder of a female post-graduate trainee (PGT) doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, following an order from the Calcutta High Court on 13 August 2024.

A 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was tragically raped and murdered on August 9, 2024. The victim’s semi-nude body was found in a seminar hall on the hospital premises. The accused, Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, was arrested after being identified through CCTV footage.

The incident has led to widespread protests among the medical community, with demands for justice and enhanced security measures. The Calcutta High Court has ordered a CBI investigation due to concerns about potential evidence tampering. The court directed the Kolkata Police to promptly transfer all case documents to the CBI.

Q.: A female trainee doctor was tragically raped and murdered on August 9, 2024, at which institution?

A) AIIMS Delhi
B) RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata
C) Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi
D) King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

Answer: B) RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata
A 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was tragically raped and murdered on August 9, 2024.

Paris Olympics 2024 concluded: 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles

Paris Olympics 2024 concludes with the glittering closing ceremony at Stade de France. The Olympic Games took place from July 26 to August 11, 2024. 

India’s Performance: India won 6 medals (1 silver, 5 bronze) and finished 71st in the overall medal tally, a drop from their 48th position in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where they won 7 medals (1 gold, 2 silver, 4 bronze).

Olympic Medal Count:

  • United States: 1st with 126 medals, including 40 gold.
  • China: 2nd with 91 medals, including 40 gold.
  • Japan: 3rd with 45 medals, including 20 gold.
  • Australia: 4th with 53 medals, including 18 gold.

Next Olympic Game

2028 Summer Olympics: Scheduled to be held in Los Angeles, marking the third time the city hosts the games (previously in 1932 and 1984). New sports include flag football, cricket, lacrosse, squash, and the return of baseball and softball.

Q.: In which year will the next Summer Olympics be held, and where?

a) 2026, Tokyo
b) 2028, Los Angeles
c) 2030, Paris
d) 2028, New York

Answer: b) 2028, Los Angeles
2028 Summer Olympics: Scheduled to be held in Los Angeles, marking the third time the city hosts the games (previously in 1932 and 1984).

Q.: Which new sports will be introduced in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles?

a) Cricket, Lacrosse, Squash, Flag Football
b) Kabaddi, Polo, Rugby, Baseball
c) Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate, Fencing
d) Table Tennis, Archery, Equestrian, Diving

Answer: a) Cricket, Lacrosse, Squash, Flag Football
New sports in 2028 Summer Olympics include flag football, cricket, lacrosse, squash, and the return of baseball and softball.

Direct tax collections 24% higher at Rs 8.13 lakh crore

The Indian government’s gross direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2024-25 increased by 24% year-on-year, reaching Rs.8.13 lakh crore, compared to Rs.6.55 lakh crore in the previous year, as reported by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Net direct tax collections also rose by 22.5% to Rs.6.92 lakh crore, while tax refunds surged by 33.5% to Rs.1.2 lakh crore.

Key contributors to these collections include corporate tax, personal income tax, and various other taxes like securities transaction tax and equalization levy. Additionally, there was a significant increase in Income Tax Return (ITR) filings, with over 7.28 crore returns filed for the assessment year 2024-25, marking a 7.5% rise from the previous year. Notably, 72% of taxpayers opted for the New Tax Regime. The Ministry of Finance has urged taxpayers to verify their ITRs within 30 days of filing and encouraged those who missed the deadline to submit their returns promptly.

Q.: What was the percentage increase ( year-on-year) in the Indian government’s gross direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2024-25?

A) 20%
B) 22%
C) 24%
D) 26%

Ans : C) 24%
Indian government’s gross direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2024-25 increased by 24% year-on-year, reaching Rs.8.13 lakh crore, compared to Rs.6.55 lakh crore in the previous year.

IIT Madras tops in overall category : National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024

IIT Madras has been ranked first in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024 for Higher Education Institutes in the overall category, with IISc Bengaluru and IIT Bombay taking second and third places, respectively. The rankings, released on August 12, 2024, by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, also highlighted top institutions in specific categories:

  • Overall Category: IIT Madras – first, IISc Bengaluru – second and IIT Bombay- third place
  • University Category: IISc Bengaluru, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Jamia Millia Islamia ranked first, second, and third, respectively.
  • Engineering Category: IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, and IIT Bombay were the top three.
  • Management Category: IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Kozhikode led the rankings.
  • Medical Category: AIIMS Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, and Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore were the top three.

The 2024 rankings introduced three new categories: State Public Universities, Open Universities, and Skill Universities. Anna University, Chennai, ranked first among State Public Universities. IGNOU topped the Open University category. In the top 100 College list, Hindu College, Miranda College, and St. Stephen’s College, all from Delhi, secured the top three ranks. Over 6,500 institutions participated in the rankings, with more than 10,000 applications submitted across different categories.

Q.: Which institution was ranked first in the Overall category of the NIRF 2024 rankings?

A) IIT Bombay
B) IISc Bengaluru
C) IIT Madras
D) IIT Delhi

Answer: C) IIT Madras
IIT Madras has been ranked first in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024 for Higher Education Institutes in the overall category

Q.: Which institution topped the Management category in the NIRF 2024 rankings?

A) IIM Bangalore
B) IIM Kozhikode
C) IIM Ahmedabad
D) IIM Lucknow

Answer: C) IIM Ahmedabad
Management Category: IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Kozhikode are in top 3 rankings.

Q,: In the Medical category of NIRF 2024, which institution ranked first?

A) AIIMS Delhi
B) PGIMER Chandigarh
C) CMC Vellore
D) JIPMER Puducherry

Answer: A) AIIMS Delhi
Medical Category: AIIMS Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, and Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore were the top three.

World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th

World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th to protect and preserve elephants. The day focuses on raising awareness and finding solutions for the conservation of wild and captive elephants.

India has the largest and most stable population of Asian elephants, with 29,964 recorded in 2017. Indian elephants, native to the Indian subcontinent, make up about 60% of the total Asian elephant population. These elephants are intelligent and have complex social structures; females live in family groups, while males often live alone. Indian elephants have smaller, rounded ears and more compact bodies compared to African elephants. The IUCN Red List has classified Indian elephants as endangered since 1986, with an 11% population decline over the last 30 years.

Q.: When is World Elephant Day observed annually?

A) July 12th
B) August 12th
C) September 12th
D) October 12th

Answer: B) August 12th
World Elephant Day is observed on August 12th to protect and preserve elephants.

President Droupadi Murmu was awarded the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste

President Droupadi Murmu was awarded the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste on August 10, 2024, the highest civilian honor in Timor-Leste. The award recognizes her contributions to public service, education, social welfare, and the empowerment of women.

This is the first-ever Head of State visit from India to Timor-Leste. She arrived in Timor-Leste after visits to Fiji and New Zealand. President Murmu was warmly welcomed by President Jose Ramos-Horta and greeted by children at the airport. She held a bilateral meeting with the Timor-Leste President in Dili to discuss enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

Question: Which award was conferred upon President Droupadi Murmu by Timor-Leste on August 10, 2024?

a) Order of Merit
b) Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste
c) Presidential Medal of Freedom
d) Timor-Leste Ratna

Answer: b) Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste
President Droupadi Murmu was awarded the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste on August 10, 2024, the highest civilian honor in Timor-Leste

T.V Somanathan Appointed Cabinet Secretary

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of T.V. Somanathan as Cabinet Secretary for two years, starting from August 30th, 2024. T.V. Somanathan is an officer from the 1987 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Tamil Nadu cadre.

The Committee also approved his appointment as Officer on Special Duty in the Cabinet Secretariat.This appointment as Officer on Special Duty will begin from the date he joins and continue until he takes over as Cabinet Secretary.

Q.: Who has been appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary?

a) Rajiv Gauba
b) T.V. Somanathan
c) Ajay Kumar Bhalla
d) P.K. Mishra

Answer: b) T.V. Somanathan
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of T.V. Somanathan as Cabinet Secretary for two years, starting from August 30th, 2024.

Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 took place in Kuantan, Malaysia, from August 5th to 9th, 2024

The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent returned to India after participating in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024. The exercise took place in Kuantan, Malaysia, from August 5th to 9th, 2024. It was a joint air exercise conducted with the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter jets participated in air combat missions alongside the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s Su-30MKM fighters. The exercise aimed to bolster operational efficiency and enhance technical expertise of both air forces.

Q.: Where did the Indian Air Force (IAF) participate in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 from August 5th to 9th, 2024?

a) Singapore
b) Kuantan, Malaysia
c) Jakarta, Indonesia
d) Bangkok, Thailand

Answer: b) Kuantan, Malaysia
The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent participated in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 in Kuantan, Malaysia, from August 5th to 9th, 2024. It was a joint air exercise conducted with the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

World Lion Day is celebrated on August 10th

World Lion Day is celebrated annually on August 10th to raise awareness about lion conservation. The day was first observed in 2013, initiated by conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert with National Geographic’s Big Cat Initiative.

Lions are known as the “Kings of the Jungle” but face threats like habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Lions are classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 50,000 remaining in the wild.

India has a significant population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir National Park. Conservation efforts in India have led to an increase in Asiatic lion numbers, with around 674 lions recorded in the 2020 census.

Q.: When is World Lion Day celebrated annually?

a) August 1st
b) August 10th
c) August 20th
d) August 30th

Answer: b) August 10th
World Lion Day is celebrated annually on August 10th to raise awareness about lion conservation. The day was first observed in 2013, initiated by conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert with National Geographic’s Big Cat Initiative.

Aman Sehrawat won a bronze medal in the Men’s 57kg freestyle event at the Paris Olympics

On August 9, 2024, Indian wrestler Aman Sehrawat won a bronze medal in the Men’s 57kg freestyle event at the Paris Olympics, defeating Puerto Rico’s Darian Cruz with a score of 13-5. Aman Sehrawat, 21-year-old from Haryana became India’s youngest medal winner at the Olympics, surpassing PV Sindhu’s record, at 21 years and 24 days old.

This marked India’s sixth medal at the Games and the first in wrestling, continuing the country’s streak of winning wrestling medals at the Olympics since 2008. Despite a strong performance that led him to the semifinals, the 21-year-old from Haryana lost to Japan’s Rei Higuchi 0-10 by technical superiority. Sehrawat began his campaign with a commanding 10-0 victory over North Macedonia’s Vladimir Egorov and followed it with a 12-0 win against Albania’s Zelimkhan Abakarov in the quarterfinals.

India has now secured five bronze medals and one silver at the Paris Olympics.

Question: Who is the youngest medal winner for India at the Olympics?

A) PV Sindhu
B) Neeraj Chopra
C) Aman Sehrawat
D) Sushil Kumar

Answer: C) Aman Sehrawat
Explanation:
Aman Sehrawat became the youngest medal winner for India at the Olympics by clinching a bronze medal in the Men’s 57kg freestyle event at the Paris Olympics on August 9, 2024. He achieved this feat at the age of 21 years and 24 days, surpassing the previous record held by PV Sindhu, who won a medal at the age of 22 years.

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approves 8 projects of Ministry of Railways

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 9 Aug 2024, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved eight railway projects worth ₹24,657 crore. The projects will benefit 14 districts across seven states: Odisha, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Telangana, and West Bengal.

Key projects include:

  • Gunupur-Therubali and Junagarh-Nabrangpur lines in Odisha.
  • Malkangiri-Pandurangapuram line spanning Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
  • Buramara-Chakulia rail route covering Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha.
  • Bikramshila-Katareah rail route in Bihar.
  • Jalna-Jalgaon project in Maharashtra, enhancing connectivity to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ajanta Caves.

The projects are crucial for transporting commodities like agricultural products, fertilizer, coal, iron ore, steel, and cement. Capacity enhancements are expected to add 143 million tonnes of freight traffic annually. These projects support climate goals and reduce logistics costs by leveraging the eco-friendly and energy-efficient nature of railways.

Question: What is the primary role of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)?

A) To oversee foreign relations of India
B) To approve economic policies and projects
C) To manage defense strategies and operations
D) To regulate the education system in India

Answer: B) To approve economic policies and projects

Explanation:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) is is responsible for making crucial decisions related to the economic policies of the country, including the approval of significant economic projects, financial proposals, and policies that impact the country’s economy.

Both Houses of Parliament adjourned sine die on 9 Aug 2024

On August 9, 2024, both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die, concluding the Budget Session that began on July 22.

12 government bills were introduced during the session of which four were passed by the Lok Sabha. The Finance Bill, the Appropriation Bill, the Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill, and the Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak were passed in the Lower House.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted Budget discussions in the Upper House.

Question: What does the term “sine die” mean when used in the context of parliamentary sessions?

A) Without setting a future date for resumption
B) With a fixed date for the next session
C) After passing all pending bills
D) After the session ends with a final vote

Answer: A) Without setting a future date for resumption
Explanation:
“Sine die” is a Latin term that means “without a day.” In the context of parliamentary sessions, it refers to the adjournment of a session without assigning a specific date for the next meeting.

Question: Who is the Chairman of Rajya Sabha ?

A) Om Birla
B) Nirmala Sitharaman
C) Jagdeep Dhankhar
D) Venkaiah Naidu

Answer: C) Jagdeep Dhankhar
The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is the Vice President of India. Jagdeep Dhankhar holds the position of Vice President, making him the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, from August 9 to August 15

The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, scheduled from August 9 to August 15, 2024, aiming to strengthen patriotism among citizens. Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat urged citizens to hoist the national flag at their homes and share selfies with the flag on the campaign’s website.

Launched in 2022 during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the campaign saw over ten crore flag selfies uploaded last year. This year’s event includes over 200 cultural programs nationwide and a Tiranga Bike Rally on August 13, featuring Members of Parliament and other ministers. The campaign seeks to strengthen national pride and unity.

Question: What is the primary objective of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign taking place from August 9 to August 15?

A) To promote tourism in India
B) To strengthen patriotism among citizens
C) To celebrate Indian festivals
D) To conduct a nationwide cultural competition

Answer: B) To strengthen patriotism among citizens
The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, scheduled from August 9 to August 15, 2024, aiming to strengthen patriotism among citizens

India’s men’s hockey team win bronze medal at the Paris Olympics

India’s men’s hockey team claimed the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics with a thrilling 2-1 win over Spain, led by two goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh.

The Indian team was initially down by a goal, but Harmanpreet leveled the score just before halftime.

Spain’s captain, Marc Miralles, had opened the scoring 11 minutes into the second quarter.

Q.: Which medal did India’s men’s hockey team win at the Paris Olympics 2024, and who scored both goals in their 2-1 victory over Spain?

A) Gold; Manpreet Singh
B) Silver; PR Sreejesh
C) Bronze; Harmanpreet Singh
D) Bronze; Amit Hohidas

Answer: C) Bronze; Harmanpreet Singh
India’s men’s hockey team claimed the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics with a thrilling 2-1 win over Spain, led by two goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh.

Paris Olympics 2024 : Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal in the men’s javelin throw, Arshad Nadeem took the gold

At the Paris Olympics 2024, Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal in the men’s javelin throw with a season-best throw of 89.45 meters.

Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem took the gold, setting a new Olympic record with a throw of 92.97 meters, making him the first individual Olympic gold medalist from Pakistan. Nadeem also surpassed the previous Olympic record of 90.57 meters.

Grenada’s Anderson Peters won the bronze with a throw of 88.54 meters.

Q.: Which medal did Neeraj Chopra win in the men’s javelin throw at the Paris Olympics 2024?

A) Gold
B) Silver
C) Bronze
D) No medal

Answer: B) Silver
At the Paris Olympics 2024, Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal in the men’s javelin throw with a season-best throw of 89.45 meters.

Q.: Who won the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw at the Paris Olympics 2024?

A) Neeraj Chopra
B) Anderson Peters
C) Andreas Thorkildsen
D) Arshad Nadeem

Answer: D) Arshad Nadeem
Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem took the gold, setting a new Olympic record with a throw of 92.97 meters, making him the first individual Olympic gold medalist from Pakistan.

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