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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.

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the Head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government

On 8 August 2024, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amid violent protests.

Born on 28 June 1940, Mr Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi entrepreneur, banker, and economist. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance.

As chief adviser, Yunus will oversee the interim government responsible for organizing new elections in Bangladesh, which has a population of 170 million. The protests that led to Hasina’s ousting originated from a student-led movement against quotas in government jobs and escalated due to harsh economic conditions and political repression. The government’s response faced global criticism, although officials denied allegations of excessive force.

Q.: Who was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government on 8 August 2024?

A) Sheikh Hasina
B) Muhammad Yunus
C) Khaleda Zia
D) Abdul Hamid

Answer: B) Muhammad Yunus
On 8 August 2024, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amid violent protests.

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024: Honoring Excellence in Science, Technology, and Innovation

The Government has announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024, one of India’s highest recognitions in science, technology, and innovation. This award honors significant contributions by individuals or teams in these fields.

  • The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.
  • Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.
  • The Vigyan Shri Award recipients include Anandharamakrishnan C, Umesh Varshney, Bhim Singh, Adimurthi Adi, Syed Wajh Ahmad Naqvi, Sanjay Behari, and Rahul Mukherjee.
  • The Vigyan Yuva Award nominees are Dr. Bappi Paul, Dr. Abhilash, Radha Krishnan Mahalakshmi, Purabi Saikia, Digendranath Swain, Prabhu Rajagopal, and Prashant Kumar.

Full List of Award winners : Download PDF

The awards ceremony will take place on the 23rd August on the National Space Day.

Q.: Who will receive the Vigyan Team Award on 23 August 2024?

a) The ISRO-Mangalyaan Team
b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
c) The DRDO Team
d) The Indian Institute of Science Team

Ans : b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.

Q.: Professor G. Padmanabhan will receive the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in which field?

a) Physical Sciences
b) Chemical Sciences
c) Biological Sciences
d) Environmental Sciences

Ans : c) Biological Sciences
Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.

10th National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7, 2024

10th National Handloom Day is celebrated on August.2024. National Handloom Day is celebrated annually on August 7th to honor the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of India’s handloom weavers. This day marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905, promoting the use of indigenous products.

The handloom sector, a vital part of India’s socio-economic fabric, employs millions, especially women in rural areas, and is known for its eco-friendly production. First observed on August 7, 2015, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the day aims to raise awareness about the handloom industry’s significance and support weavers through various government initiatives.

Question: When is National Handloom Day celebrated annually?

a) August 1st
b) August 7th
c) August 15th
d) August 21st

Ans : b) August 7th
This day marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905, promoting the use of indigenous products.

Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Paris Olympics for being overweight; announces retirement

On 7 August 2024, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat faced a setback at the Paris Olympics when she was disqualified from the 50kg freestyle wrestling category final for being overweight by 100 grams.

The Indian Olympics Association stated that despite the team’s efforts, she was a few grams over the weight limit during the morning weigh-in. Prior to this, Phogat had an impressive run, defeating World No.1 and Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki of Japan to reach the quarterfinals. She then overcame Ukraine’s Oksana Livach with a score of 7-5 in the quarterfinals and beat Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semifinals, becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the Olympic final.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement, she was disqualified from the wrestling final at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. In a social media post, she announced her retirement.

Q.: Which Indian wrestler was disqualified from the 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics for being overweight?

a) Sakshi Malik
b) Vinesh Phogat
c) Pooja Dhanda
d) Babita Kumari

Ans : b) Vinesh Phogat
On 7 August 2024, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat faced a setback at the Paris Olympics when she was disqualified from the 50kg freestyle wrestling category final for being overweight by 100 grams.

Bangladesh president dissolves parliament, frees former PM Begum Khaleda Zia

On August 7, 2024, Bangladesh’s president dissolved parliament, paving the way for an interim government and new elections following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and flight after a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising. President Mohammed Shahabuddin also announced the release of opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from house arrest.

The student protests, sparked by opposition to public sector job quotas favoring families of veterans from the 1971 independence war, led to widespread violence with about 300 deaths and thousands injured since July. The unrest climaxed with the storming and looting of the prime minister’s residence.

Following the dissolution of parliament, Dhaka saw relative peace with businesses and schools remaining closed. Garment factories, crucial to the economy, were set to reopen on Wednesday.

The decision to dissolve parliament came after consultations with military leaders, political figures, and civil society representatives. Ongoing negotiations are aimed at forming the interim government, which will organize upcoming elections.

Hasina’s departure marked the end of her 15-year second term and 20 years of leadership over the past 30 years, a tenure marked by a long-standing feud with rival Zia, both inheriting their political movements from their assassinated fathers.

Q.: The President of Bangladesh freed which former Prime Minister from house arrest following the dissolution of parliament on August 7, 2024?

A) Sheikh Hasina
B) Ziaur Rahman
C) Begum Khaleda Zia
D) Mohammed Shahabuddin

Answer: C) Begum Khaleda Zia
On August 7, 2024, Bangladesh’s president dissolved parliament and announced the release of opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from house arrest.

Namami Gange Mission 2.0: Projects worth Rs 920 crore completed in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

The central government has completed and operationalized four major projects under the Namami Gange Mission 2.0 in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, totaling Rs 920 crore. These projects aim to enhance sewage treatment capacity by 145 megaliters per day (MLD) and improve sewer networks. Key highlights include:

  • Technology and Standards: Utilizes Hybrid Annuity PPP (HAM) model and Advanced Sequencing Batch Reactor technology, adhering to National Green Tribunal (NGT) standards.
  • Environmental Impact: Aims to significantly improve the water quality of the Ganga and its tributaries by treating sewage and preventing untreated discharge.

Project Locations and Details:

  • Munger, Bihar: Cost: Rs 366 crore, Sewerage Network: 175 km, STP Capacity: 30 MLD, Benefits: Approximately 300,000 residents
  • Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 129 crore, Sewage Treatment: Two new STPs (Pakka Pokhra and Bisunderpur) with 8.5 MLD capacity each
  • Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 153 crore, Network: 1.3 km interception and diversion, STP Capacity: 21 MLD
  • Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 271 crore, Focus: Intercepting, diverting, and treating sewage to prevent Ganga pollution

Community Benefits:

  • Enhances water quality and sanitation infrastructure.
  • Connects households to the sewer network, preventing untreated sewage discharge.

These initiatives are part of the broader Namami Gange Mission, aiming to rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga for future generations.

Q.: What is the primary goal of the Namami Gange Mission?

A) To build new dams
B) To rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga
C) To promote tourism along the Ganga
D) To construct new bridges over the Ganga

Ans : B) To rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga
Namami Gange Mission, aim to rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga for future generations.

Vinesh Phogat reaches Olympic final of women’s freestyle 50kg

Vinesh Phogat made history on August 6, 2024, becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. She achieved this after a dominant 5-0 victory over Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the women’s freestyle 50kg semi-final.

Key highlights of her journey include:

  • Defeating world No. 1 and defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan in the Round of 16.
  • Overcoming Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in a closely contested quarterfinal.

Vinesh’s semi-final win has assured her of at least a silver medal, a significant milestone for Indian wrestling. She now aims for gold in the final, raising hopes for a historic victory.

Q.: Who became the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final on August 6, 2024?

A) Geeta Phogat
B) Babita Kumari
C) Sakshi Malik
D) Vinesh Phogat

Answer: D) Vinesh Phogat
Vinesh Phogat on August 6, 2024, reached in Olympic final. She achieved this after a 5-0 victory over Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the women’s freestyle 50kg semi-final.

President Droupadi Murmu conferred highest honour – Companion of the Order of Fiji

President Droupadi Murmu, on a two-day visit to Fiji, was conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest honor of Fiji, by President Williame Katonivere. She received a ceremonial guard of honor from the Fiji Military Force upon arrival in Suva and attended a traditional welcome ceremony with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

During her address to the Fijian Parliament, President Murmu highlighted the 75-year diplomatic association between the countries, thanked Fiji for supporting the Aditya L1 Mission, and recalled India’s assistance to Fiji during the COVID-19 crisis through the Vaccine Maitri initiative. She also stressed the importance of the Global South in advocating for climate justice for developing nations.

Q.: President Droupadi Murmu was conferred which, the highest honor of Fiji, by President Williame Katonivere during her visit in August 2024?

A) Order of the Star of Fiji
B) Companion of the Order of Fiji
C) Grand Cross of the Order of Fiji
D) Order of the Pacific Star

Answer: B) Companion of the Order of Fiji
President Droupadi Murmu, on a two-day visit to Fiji, was conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest honor of Fiji, by President Williame Katonivere.

Lakshya Sen misses out on bronze medal at Paris 2024

On 5 August 2024, Lakshya Sen narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the men’s singles badminton event at the Paris Olympics, concluding a remarkable campaign.

Sen was on the brink of making history as the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal in this category but lost to Malaysia’s Zii Jia Lee with scores of 21-13, 16-21, 11-21, finishing fourth. Despite winning the first set with strong defense and powerful smashes, Sen couldn’t maintain his lead in the subsequent sets. Lee’s comeback in the second set and dominance in the third set led to Sen’s defeat and the loss of the bronze medal.

Q.: Who defeated Lakshya Sen in the bronze medal match at the Paris Olympics 2024?

A: Kento Momota
B: Viktor Axelsen
C: Zii Jia Lee
D: Anthony Ginting

Answer: C: Zii Jia Lee
Lakshya Sen missed out on a bronze medal in the men’s singles lost to Malaysia’s Zii Jia Lee with scores of 21-13, 16-21, 11-21, finishing fourth.

Sheikh Hasina Resigns as Bangladesh Prime Minister, Army Chief Announces Formation of Interim Government

On 5 August 2024, amid violent student protests, Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister and left the country in a military aircraft.

  • Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation in a televised address, announcing the formation of an interim government and urging citizens to maintain peace.
  • PM Hasina left after protestors stormed Gonobhaban, the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka.
  • Approximately 100 people were killed, and over 1,000 injured in clashes between police and protesters on 4 August 2024.
  • Students were protesting against a 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters, arguing the system is discriminatory and favors supporters of Hasina’s Awami League party.
  • The quota system, established in 1972 and briefly abolished in 2018, was restored by a High Court order, which sparked the protests.
  • The Supreme Court reduced the reservations to 5% last month, but protests reignited due to the government’s alleged inaction on releasing student leaders.
  • Hasina’s resignation became the primary demand of the protestors.
  • After resigning, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on 6 August evening and discussed the situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad.

Q.: Who announced the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh after PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation?

A: The President of Bangladesh
B: The Chief Justice of Bangladesh
C: Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman
D: The Speaker of the Parliament

Answer: C: Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman
On 5 August 2024, amid violent student protests, Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister and left the country in a military helicopter. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation, announce the formation of an interim government.

Q.: What was the main issue that led to the student protests in Bangladesh in 2024?

A: Economic reforms
B: 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters
C: Election rigging
D: Environmental policies

Answer: B: 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters
Students were protesting against a 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters, arguing the system is discriminatory and favors supporters of Sheik Hasina’s Awami League party.

Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla selected as ‘Prime Astronaut’ for Indo-US Mission to Space Station

Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS), announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The National Mission Assignment Board recommended Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as the prime Mission Pilot and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair as the backup.

The selected Gaganyatris will begin training in the first week of August 2024. The mission involves scientific research, technology demonstrations, and space outreach activities, benefiting the Indian Human Space Program and strengthening ISRO-NASA cooperation.

This mission is part of a joint effort between ISRO and NASA, formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in June 2023. ISRO’s Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) has signed a Space Flight Agreement (SFA) with Axiom Space Inc. for the Axiom-4 mission to the ISS.

Q.: Who has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station ?

a) Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair
b) Group Captain Ajit Krishnan
c) Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla
d) Group Captain Angad Pratap

Answer: c) Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla
Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS), announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Indian hockey team reached the semifinals by defeating Great Britain 4-2 in a penalty shootout

At the Paris Olympics, the Indian hockey team reached the semifinals by defeating Great Britain 4-2 in a penalty shootout on 4 August 2024. Despite playing one man short for 42 minutes due to Amit Rohidas receiving a red card, the team managed to dominate.

Indian skipper Harmanpreet Singh scored the first goal by converting a penalty corner in the 22nd minute. Britain’s Lee Mortoon equalized five minutes later, leading to a tie breaker.

Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, made crucial saves during the shootout. India will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Argentina and Germany in the semifinals.

Q.: Which team did the Indian hockey team defeat to reach the semifinals at the Paris Olympics?

a) Germany
b) Argentina
c) Great Britain
d) Australia

Answer: c) Great Britain
At the Paris Olympics, the Indian hockey team reached the semifinals by defeating Great Britain 4-2 in a penalty shootout on 4 August 2024.

14th Indian Organ Donation Day observed on 3 Aug 2024

The 14th Indian Organ Donation Day was observed across the country on 3 Aug 2024. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) organized an awareness program in New Delhi. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, felicitated families who donated organs of brain-dead members, organ recipients, and doctors. She noted that the organ donation rate has quadrupled in the last ten years.

Indian Organ Donation Day has been observed annually since 2010 to raise awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, dispel myths, and encourage organ and tissue donation after death.

Q.: Indian Organ Donation Day is observed annually on which date?

a) 1st August
b) 2nd August
c) 3rd August
d) 4th August

Answer: c) 3rd August
Indian Organ Donation Day has been observed annually since 2010 to raise awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, dispel myths, and encourage organ and tissue donation after death.

Govt Approves 8 National High-Speed Corridor projects

On 2 August 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the development of 8 National High-Speed Corridor projects.

  • Total length: 936 km.
  • Total cost: Rs. 50,655 crore.
  • Employment generation: Estimated 4.42 crore mandays (direct and indirect).

Project Details:

  1. 6-Lane Agra – Gwalior Corridor: Length: 88 km, Cost: Rs. 4,613 crore, Mode: Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT),
  2. 4-Lane Kharagpur – Moregram Corridor: Length: 231 km, Cost: Rs. 10,247 crore, Mode: Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM),
  3. 6-Lane Tharad – Ahmedabad Corridor: Length: 214 km, Cost: Rs. 10,534 crore, Mode: BOT, Reduces travel time by 60%.
  4. 4-lane Ayodhya Ring Road: Length: 68 km, Cost: Rs. 3,935 crore, Mode: HAM.
  5. 4-Lane Pathalgaon – Gumla Corridor: Length: 137 km, Cost: Rs. 4,473 crore, Mode: HAM.
  6. 6-Lane Kanpur Ring Road: Length: 47 km, Cost: Rs. 3,298 crore, Mode: Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC).
  7. 4-Lane Northern Guwahati Bypass: Length: 121 km, Cost: Rs. 5,729 crore, Mode: Build Operate Toll (BOT).
  8. 8-Lane Elevated Nashik Phata – Khed Corridor: Length: 30 km, Cost: Rs. 7,827 crore, Mode: BOT.

Q.: Who chaired the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs that approved the development of 8 National High-Speed Corridor projects on 2 August 2024?

A) Rajnath Singh
B) Amit Shah
C) Narendra Modi
D) Nitin Gadkari

Answer: C) Narendra Modi
On 2 August 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the development of 8 National High-Speed Corridor projects.

Lakshya Sen becomes first male Indian shuttler to qualify for the semi-finals of Olympics

Lakshya Sen becomes the first male Indian shuttler to qualify for the semi-finals of an Olympics on 2 August 2024. He defeated Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien-chen with a score of 19-21, 21-15, 21-12 in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Previously, the best performances by Indian male shuttlers in the Olympic men’s singles badminton tournament were by Parupalli Kashyap (London 2012) and Kidambi Srikanth (Rio 2016), both of whom reached the quarter-finals.

Lakshya Sen will compete in the semi-final on August 4, against either Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen or Loh Kean Yew of Singapore.

Q.: Who became the first male Indian shuttler to qualify for the semi-finals of an Olympics ?

A) Parupalli Kashyap
B) Kidambi Srikanth
C) Lakshya Sen
D) P.Padukon

Ans : C) Lakshya Sen
Lakshya Sen become the first male Indian shuttler to qualify for the semi-finals of an Olympics on 2 August 2024. He defeated Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien-chen with a score of 19-21, 21-15, 21-12 in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Pingali Venkayya: Designer of India’s National Flag – Birth Anniversary on August 2

Pingali Venkayya’s birth anniversary is celebrated every year on August 2. He was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter and the designer of our national flag. He was born on August 2, 1876 (or 1878, according to some sources) in Bhatlapenumarru, Andhra Pradesh. Venkayya served in the British Indian Army during the Second Boer War and realized the need for an Indian flag.

Inspired by the Indian National Congress, he designed the first draft of the national flag in red and green, with a white stripe added later. He presented this flag to Mahatma Gandhi on April 1, 1921. The flag was informally used at Congress meetings and was formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947.

Q.: Pingali Venkayya was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter known for designing what?

A) The Indian Constitution
B) The Indian national flag
C) The Indian national anthem
D) The Indian Parliament

Ans : B) The Indian national flag
Pingali Venkayya’s birth anniversary is celebrated every year on August 2. He was a remarkable Indian freedom fighter and the designer of our national flag.

Q.: When was the national flag formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly?

A) January 26, 1950
B) August 15, 1947
C) July 22, 1947
D) November 26, 1949

Ans : C) July 22, 1947
Pingali Venkayya presented this flag to Mahatma Gandhi on April 1, 1921. The flag was informally used at Congress meetings and was formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947.

Surge in UPI Transactions, Reaches 20.64 Lakh Crore in July 2024, NPCI Reports

In July 2024, Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based transactions surged to 20.64 lakh crore rupees, reflecting a 35% year-on-year increase, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

The total number of UPI transactions grew by nearly 4% month-on-month to 14.44 billion, with an average daily transaction volume of 466 million. UPI is now gaining up to 60 lakh new users every month, driven by the integration of RuPay credit cards on UPI and its expansion into foreign countries.

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) latest report on Currency and Finance (2023-24) highlights India’s emergence as a leading digital economy, supported by robust digital infrastructure, a dynamic fintech ecosystem, and favorable policies.

Q.: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Transactions Reaches 20.64 Lakh Crore in July 2024. UPI is developed by?

A) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
B) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
C) Ministry of Finance
D) State Bank of India (SBI)

Ans : B) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
In July 2024, Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based transactions surged to 20.64 lakh crore rupees, reflecting a 35% year-on-year increase, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). UPI, is an Indian instant payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in 2016.

Swapnil Kusale won the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3P event at the Paris Olympics

India shooter Swapnil Kusale won the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3P event at the Paris Olympics on 01 August 2024. Kusale clinched the bronze medal for India in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions Men’s Final after finishing in third place with an aggregate of 451.4.

Swapnil Kusale finished third with 195 in standing after 156.8 in the prone and 153.3 in the kneeling rounds.

With this, Swapnil has now become the first Indian shooter to win an Olympic medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event. This is also the first time that the Indian shooting contingent have won three medals in a single edition of any Olympics.

Q.: In which event did Swapnil Kusale win the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024?

A) Archery
B) Shooting
C) Wrestling
D) Boxing

B) Shooting
India shooter Swapnil Kusale won the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3P event at the Paris Olympics on 01 August 2024.

Q.: Swapnil Kusale’s bronze medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event at the Paris Olympics 2024 made him the first Indian shooter to achieve what?

A) Win a gold medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions
B) Win an Olympic medal in the men’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions event
C) Win multiple Olympic medals in shooting
D) Win a medal in any shooting event

Ans : B) Win an Olympic medal in the men’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions event
Swapnil has now become the first Indian shooter to win an Olympic medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event.

Wayanad Landslides : Deadliest in Kerala’s history

On July 30, 2024, devastating landslides occurred in Wayanad district, Kerala, India. These landslides resulted in more than 276 deaths and over 200 injuries, making them the deadliest landslides in Kerala’s history.

Wayanad, a hilly district in the Western Ghats mountain range, is prone to landslides during the monsoon season. Despite alerts issued by the district administration, some residents stayed in their houses, leading to tragic consequences. The affected villages include Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome.

Rescue operations were hindered by strong river currents and heavy rains, but relief teams, including the Indian Army, worked tirelessly to assist those affected.

Q.: Which district in Kerala experienced the deadliest landslides in its history during July 2024?

A) Idukki
B) Malappuram
C) Wayanad
D) Kozhikode

Answer: C) Wayanad
On July 30, 2024, devastating landslides occurred in Wayanad district, Kerala, India. These landslides resulted in more than 276 deaths and over 200 injuries, making them the deadliest landslides in Kerala’s history.

India will host its first multinational air exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’, from 6th August 2024

India will host its first multinational air exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’, in two phases starting on the 6th August 2024 in Sular, Tamil Nadu. In this exercise, nearly 30 countries will participate, and out of 30, ten countries will join the exercise with their fighter aircraft. The exercise will showcase India’s defence prowess and provide a platform for participating militaries to foster interoperability.

The first phase is to be held in Sular, Tamil Nadu, from 6th to 14th August, and the second phase in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 29th August to 14th September. 10 countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Greece, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the USA, and Singapore, will join the exercise with their aircraft, and 18 countries will attend as observers.

India’s fighter aircraft, including Tejas, Rafale, Mirage 2000, Jaguar, MIG 29 aircraft, and more, will take part in the exercise.

Q.: What is the name of India’s first multinational air exercise, which will be held in August 2024?

a) Vijay Shakti 2024
b) Yudh Abhyas 2024
c) Tarang Shakti 2024
d) Garuda Shakti 2024

Answer: c) Tarang Shakti 2024
India will host its first multinational air exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’, in two phases starting on the 6th August 2024 in Sular, Tamil Nadu. In this exercise, nearly 30 countries will participate, and out of 30, ten countries will join the exercise with their fighter aircraft.

Preeti Sudan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Former Union Health Secretary Preeti Sudan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), effective from 1st August 2024. She succeeds Dr. Manoj Soni, who resigned earlier this month.

About Preeti Sudan

  • She is an IAS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, 1983 batch, with nearly 37 years of experience in government administration.
  • Education: Degrees in Economics and Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics, trained in public finance management in Washington.

Career Highlights:

  • Union Health Secretary for three years until July 2020, key strategist during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Secretary of Department of Food and Public Distribution, roles in Women and Child Development, Defence Ministry, Finance and Planning, Disaster Management, Tourism, and Agriculture.
  • Consultant with the World Bank.
  • Chair of COP-8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Vice Chair of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Chair of Global Digital Health Partnership, member of WHO’s Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.

Contributions:

  • Key initiatives: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ayushman Bharat.
  • Actions: Ban on E-cigarettes, legislation on the National Medical Commission.

Q.: Who has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) from 1st August 2024?

a) Dr. Manoj Soni
b) Preeti Sudan
c) Amitabh Kant
d) Sunita Sharma

Answer: b) Preeti Sudan
Former Union Health Secretary Preeti Sudan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), effective from 1st August 2024. She is an IAS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, 1983 batch. She succeeds Dr. Manoj Soni, who resigned earlier this month.

Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh win Bronze in 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team Event at Paris Olympics 2024

Manu Bhaker made history on 30 July 2024 by becoming the first Indian woman in independent India to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games. She clinched a bronze medal in the 10m pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh, defeating South Korea 16-10 at the Paris Olympics.

With this achievement, Manu Bhaker joins P.V. Sindhu as the only Indian women to have won two Olympic medals.

Earlier, Manu had opened India’s medal tally at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event.

In the pre-independence Olympics, Norman Pritchard, a British-Indian, won two medals at the 1900 Summer Games. He won a silver medal in both the men’s 200m sprint and the 200m hurdles.

Sure, here’s the MCQ:

Q.: Who became the first Indian woman in independent India to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games?

(A) Mary Kom
(B) Saina Nehwal
(C) P.V. Sindhu
(D) Manu Bhaker

Ans : (D) Manu Bhaker
Manu Bhaker made history on 30 July 2024 by becoming the first Indian woman in independent India to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games.

Q.: Who was Manu Bhaker’s partner in the 10m pistol mixed team event at the 2024 Paris Olympics?

(A) Abhishek Verma
(B) Sarabjot Singh
(C) Saurabh Chaudhary
(D) Rajiv Sharma

Ans : (B) Sarabjot Singh
Manu Bhaker clinched a bronze medal in the 10m pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh, defeating South Korea 16-10 at the Paris Olympics.

56th International Chemistry Olympiad : Indian Team Wins one Gold, Two Silver, and a Bronze

The 56th International Chemistry Olympiad was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024. The Indian team won one Gold, two Silver, and one Bronze medal.

  • Devesh Bhaiyya from Jalgaon, Maharashtra won the Gold medal.
  • Avanish Bansal from Mumbai and Harshin Posina from Hyderabad won Silver medals.
  • Kashyap Khandelwal from Mumbai won the Bronze medal.

Prof. Gulshanara Shaikh and Dr. Shraddha Tiwari guided the Indian team.

327 students from 94 countries participated in the Olympiad.

Q.: Who won the Gold medal for India at the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024?

(A) Avanish Bansal
(B) Harshin Posina
(C) Kashyap Khandelwal
(D) Devesh Bhaiyya

Ans : (D) Devesh Bhaiyya
Devesh Bhaiyya from Jalgaon, Maharashtra won the Gold medal in the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024

India accounts for 48.5 percent of the global digital payments: RBI report

India accounts for nearly half of the world’s digital payments, holding a 48.5 percent share in global real-time payment volumes, according to a report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The report also highlights India’s leadership in global remittances, receiving USD 115.3 billion in 2023.

Key points from the report include:

  • India’s digital economy makes up about a tenth of the GDP, expected to grow to a fifth by 2026.
  • Digital payments in India have grown with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50 percent in volume and 10 percent in value over the last seven years, amounting to 164 billion transactions worth Rs 428 lakh crore in 2023-24.
  • The digital revolution in India includes the India Stack, comprising biometric identification, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), mobile connectivity, digital lockers, and consent-based data sharing.
  • Cybersecurity remains a significant challenge, with a sharp increase in security incidents from 53,117 in 2017 to 13,20,106 in January-October 2023, with unauthorized network scanning/probing accounting for over 80 percent of incidents.
  • India’s digital technology infrastructure, focusing on next-generation communication technologies like 6G and satellite networks, alongside expanding the 5G network to rural and uncovered urban areas, is identified as a key growth engine.
  • Achieving self-sufficiency in chip manufacturing is crucial for harnessing the full potential of the digital revolution.

Question : What percentage of the world’s digital payments is accounted for by India?

A) 35.2 percent
B) 48.5 percent
C) 52.1 percent
D) 60.7 percent

Answer: B) 48.5 percent
India accounts for nearly half of the world’s digital payments, holding a 48.5 percent share in global real-time payment volumes, according to a report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

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