Current Affairs

Current Affairs is the most important part of every competitive exam in India. At gknow.in, we provide accurate, exam-focused, and easy-to-read current affairs to help aspirants prepare confidently for SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, State PCS, and other government exams.

This parent category covers all major current affairs topics, including:

  • National Current Affairs – Government updates, policies, bills, and major developments

  • International Affairs – Global events, agreements, and geopolitical updates

  • Awards & Honours – National and international recognitions

  • Culture & Heritage – Festivals, traditions, and notable cultural events

  • Science & Technology – ISRO, DRDO, space missions, innovations, discoveries

  • Polity & Governance – Constitutional amendments, committees, judicial updates

  • Important Days & Themes – Monthly observances and exam-relevant themes

  • Government Schemes – New initiatives, updates, launches, and budgets

Our content is:
✅ Daily updated
✅ Exam-oriented
✅ Available in simple language

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das received an “A+” rating in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards for the second consecutive year

Shaktikanta Das (RBI Governor) received an “A+” rating in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards for the second consecutive year. Das shares the top honor with Christian Kettel Thomsen of Denmark and Thomas Jordan of Switzerland. The RBI’s policies under Das’s leadership have been effective in managing inflation and economic growth in India.

Global Finance magazine evaluates central bank governors from nearly 100 key economic regions worldwide. The grading system ranges from “A+” to “F”, assessing factors like inflation control, economic growth, currency stability, and interest rate management. The Central Banker Report Cards have been a tradition since 1994, recognizing leaders for originality, creativity, and tenacity. Global Finance magazine has a global readership across 193 countries, influencing major investment and strategic decisions.

Q.: Who is the current Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) who received an “A+” rating in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards for the second consecutive year in Aug 2024?

a) Urjit Patel
b) Shaktikanta Das
c) Raghuram Rajan
d) D. Subbarao

Answer: b) Shaktikanta Das

Supreme Court set up a national task force to ensure the safety of medical professionals

On 20 August 2024, the Supreme Court of India set up a national task force to ensure the safety of medical professionals, particularly women. This decision came after the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata. The task force, consisting of prominent doctors, is asked to provide an interim report within three weeks and a final report in two months.

The Court also ordered the removal of any social media content related to the victim and directed the deployment of CISF to protect doctors at RG Kar Hospital. The Court criticized the West Bengal government and hospital authorities for mishandling the case and expressed concern over the lack of laws ensuring the safety of medical professionals. Several states have laws against violence on doctors, but these do not address institutional safety properly.

Q.: What did the Supreme Court set up on 20 August 2024 to ensure the safety of medical professionals?

a) A national advisory council
b) A national task force
c) A government committee
d) A special police force

Answer: b) A national task force
On 20 August 2024, the Supreme Court of India set up a national task force to ensure the safety of medical professionals, particularly women. This decision came after the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata.

UPSC cancels advertisement for lateral entry in bureaucracy following govt’s direction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has cancelled the advertisement related to lateral entry in the bureaucracy following the directions from the Department of Personnel and Training on 20 August 2024.

The UPSC had issued an advertisement for 45 positions of Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries in Central Ministries. The advertisement was questioned by opposition parties, who claim it undermines the reservation rights of OBCs, SCs, and STs.

Q.: Which positions were included in the UPSC’s advertisement for lateral entry before it was cancelled?

a) Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries
b) Cabinet Ministers and Secretaries
c) Under Secretaries and Assistant Directors
d) Chief Ministers and Governors

Answer: a) Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries
The UPSC had issued an advertisement for 45 positions of Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries in Central Ministries.

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 shifted to UAE from Bangladesh

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been relocated to the UAE due to political instability in Bangladesh. Originally scheduled to be held in Bangladesh, the tournament will now take place from October 3 to October 20, 2024, in Dubai and Sharjah. The dates for the event remain unchanged.

This will be the ninth edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will retain its hosting rights and co-host the event with the Emirates Cricket Board. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe had also submitted bids to host the tournament, but the UAE was selected.

Q.: Why was the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 relocated to the UAE from Bangladesh?

a) Financial issues
b) Political instability in Bangladesh
c) Weather concerns
d) Lack of infrastructure in Bangladesh

Answer: b) Political instability in Bangladesh
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been relocated to the UAE due to political instability in Bangladesh. Originally scheduled to be held in Bangladesh, the tournament will now take place from October 3 to October 20, 2024, in Dubai and Sharjah.

Ashok Kumar Singh, IAS took over as the Director General of the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)

Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, an IAS officer of the 1999 Kerala cadre, took over as the Director General of the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on August 19, 2024. He has extensive experience in governance and management at both district and state levels, having previously served as Principal Secretary of the Water Resources Department in Kerala.

Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC):

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. It was established in 1952 to provide social security and health insurance to Indian workers. ESIC offers a range of benefits, including medical care, cash benefits during sickness, maternity, and employment injury, as well as pension for dependents. The organization operates through a network of hospitals, dispensaries, and branch offices across India, ensuring comprehensive coverage and support for insured workers and their families.

Q.: Who took over as the Director General of Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) in Aug 2024?

A) Shri Rajesh Kumar
B) Shri Ashok Kumar Singh
C) Shri Anil Kumar
D) Shri Suresh Chandra

Ans : B) Shri Ashok Kumar Singh
Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, an IAS officer of the 1999 Kerala cadre, took over as the Director General of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on August 19, 2024.

Mpox; Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

Recent outbreaks have occurred in various countries, including the UK, Sweden, and Pakistan, with higher transmission rates and mortality than previous outbreaks. Health authorities are responding by stockpiling vaccines and issuing travel advisories.

Mpox, (monkeypox)

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus, related to the smallpox virus.

Transmission:

  • Human-to-Human: Mpox spreads through direct contact with infectious sores, body fluids, or respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact, including intimate interactions like kissing or sexual contact.
  • Animal-to-Human: In West and Central Africa, the virus can be contracted from infected animals, such as rodents, through bites, scratches, or handling infected meat.

Symptoms:

  • Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.
  • Rash Development: A rash appears 1 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. It progresses from raised spots to fluid-filled blisters, which eventually scab and fall off.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Vaccination: Smallpox vaccines are effective against Mpox, recommended for high-risk individuals.
  • Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) are crucial for prevention.
  • Treatment: There is no specific treatment for Mpox, but supportive care and possibly antiviral drugs like tecovirimat can help manage symptoms.

Q.: What are the initial symptoms of Mpox?

A) Diarrhea and vomiting
B) Fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes
C) Cough and shortness of breath
D) Nausea and dizziness

Answer: B) Fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes
Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion.
Rash Development: A rash appears 1 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.

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.

Scroll to Top