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

Three new criminal laws came into force on July 1, 2024

The three new criminal laws in India—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023; and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023— come into force with effect from 1 July 2024. These laws were passed by the Parliament during the winter session in 2023.

Key provisions

  • Report incidents online, file FIRs at any police station, and provide victims with a free copy of the FIR.
  • Individuals arrested have the right to inform a person of their choice about their situation.
  • Investigations for offenses against women and children must be completed within two months of recording information.
  • Forensic experts must visit crime scenes for serious offenses to collect evidence.
  • Summons can now be served electronically to expedite legal processes and reduce paperwork.

Training for police and investigating authorities has been conducted to ensure a smooth transition. Awareness programs, news bulletins, discussions, and informational websites have been utilized to inform the public. Course modules on the new laws have been included in schools and higher education institutes.

Q: When the three new criminal laws in India came into force?

A) June 30, 2024
B) July 1, 2024
C) August 1, 2024
D) January 1, 2024

Ans : B) July 1, 2024
The three new criminal laws in India—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023; and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023— come into force with effect from 1 July 2024.

Q: Which of the following is NOT one of the three new criminal laws in India?

A) Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
B) Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
C) Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
D) Bharatiya Dand Adhiniyam, 2023

Ans : D) Bharatiya Dand Adhiniyam, 2023
The three new criminal laws in India are :
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023;
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023; and
Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2024

India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2024 on 29 June 2024 at Kensington Oval. India defeated South Africa by seven runs.

India posted a total of 176 for 7 in 20 overs, the highest score in a men’s T20 World Cup final. Virat Kohli scored 76 runs and Axar Patel scored 47 runs.

South Africa scored 169 runs for 8 wickets. Heinrich Klaasen scored 52 runs.

Hardik Pandya took three wickets. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh took two wickets each.

  • Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match.
  • Jasprit Bumrah was named Player of the Tournament, with 15 wickets in eight games and an economy rate below six.

This victory marked India’s second T20 World Cup win, the first being in 2007.

Q: Which team did India defeat to win the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2024?

A) England
B) Australia
C) South Africa
D) New Zealand

Ans : C) South Africa
India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2024 on 29 June 2024 at Kensington Oval. India defeated South Africa by seven runs.

Q: Who was named Player of the Match in the 2024 T20 World Cup final?

A) Rohit Sharma
B) Virat Kohli
C) Hardik Pandya
D) Jasprit Bumrah

Ans : B) Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli scored 76 runs in final and named Player of the Match.

Q: Who was named Player of the Tournament in the 2024 T20 World Cup?

A) Rohit Sharma
B) Virat Kohli
C) Jasprit Bumrah
D) Hardik Pandya

Ans : C) Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah was named Player of the Tournament, with 15 wickets in eight games and an economy rate below six.

India becomes World’s Third-Largest Domestic Aviation Market

India has become the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, after the U.S. and China. This ranking is based on data from aviation analytics firm Official Airline Guide (OAG).

India’s domestic airline capacity doubled in the last 10 years, from 7.9 million seats in April 2014 to 15.5 million in April 2024. India replaced Brazil as the third-largest market; Brazil is now fourth with 9.7 million seats, followed by Indonesia in fifth with 9.2 million seats. India posted the highest annual average capacity growth rate among the top five countries at 6.9%, followed by China at 6.3% and the US at 2.4%.

IndiGo and Air India, which have over 1,000 planes on order, account for 90% of domestic seats in India. Low-cost carriers (LCCs) dominate Indian domestic capacity, accounting for 78.4% in April 2024. Comparatively, LCCs account for 68.4% of domestic capacity in Indonesia, 62.4% in Brazil, 36.7% in the US, and 13.2% in China.

Q: Which country did India surpass to become the third-largest domestic aviation market?

A) Indonesia
B) Germany
C) Brazil
D) Japan

Ans : C) Brazil
India has become the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, after the U.S. and China.

António Costa’s elected as the next President of the European Council

António Costa’s was elected as the next President of the European Council on June 28,2024 in Brussels, Belgium. His mandate will last for two and a half years, succeeding Charles Michel on December 1, 2024.

António Costa is a Portuguese politician and member of the Socialist Party. He served as the Prime Minister of Portugal from 2015 to 2022.

Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni was the only leader who voted against his appointment.

Q: Who has been elected as the next President of the European Council?

A) Angela Merkel
B) Emmanuel Macron
C) António Costa
D) Pedro Sánchez

Answer: C) António Costa
António Costa’s was elected as the next President of the European Council on June 28,2024 in Brussels, Belgium. His will succeeding Charles Michel on December 1, 2024.

Vikram Misri appointed as the new Foreign Secretary of India

The Indian government appointed Vikram Misri as the new Foreign Secretary. Misri, a 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, will succeed Vinay Mohan Kwatra on July 15, 2024.

Misri is currently the Deputy National Security Adviser and will assume his new role on July 15, 2024. He has served as private secretary to three Prime Ministers: Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi.

He was born in Srinagar in 1964, educated in Gwalior, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in history from Delhi University’s Hindu College and an MBA from XLRI.

Misri’s diplomatic career includes notable postings, such as India’s ambassador to China during the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, ambassador to Spain in 2014, and ambassador to Myanmar in 2016. His early career included positions at Indian embassies in Brussels and Tunis and in various Indian diplomatic missions across Africa and North America.

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

A) Vinay Mohan Kwatra
B) S. Jaishankar
C) Vikram Misri
D) Ruchira Kamboj

Ans : C) Vikram Misri
The Indian government appointed Vikram Misri as the new Foreign Secretary. Misri, a 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, will succeed Vinay Mohan Kwatra on July 15, 2024.

Film City in Greater Noida : YEIDA and Babu Project sign Agreement

The Uttar Pradesh state government signed an agreement on 27 June 2024 to develop a film city in Greater Noida. Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP, owned by film producer Bonnie Kapoor and Ashish Bhootani.

The project has an estimated cost of 1,510 crore rupees. The film city is planned to be completed within the next eight years. The initial phase, expected to be completed in three years, will focus on establishing essential film-related facilities and a film institute.

The film city will offer world-class film production amenities, including studios, open sets, hospitality services, and office spaces. The aim is to position the film city as a premier destination for filmmakers.

Q: Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP signed an agreement to develop a Film City at which location?

A) Faridabad
B) Yamuna Nagar
C) Greater Noida
D) Lucknow

Ans : C) Greater Noida
The Uttar Pradesh state government signed an agreement on 27 June 2024 to develop a film city in Greater Noida. Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) and Bebu Project LLP, owned by film producer Bonnie Kapoor and Ashish Bhootani.

Kiran Pahal qualified for the Paris Olympics in women’s 400m

Kiran Pahal from Haryana qualified for the Paris Olympics. She clocked 50.92 seconds in the semifinals of the women’s 400m at the National Inter-state Athletics Championships in Panchkula. She secured her spot at the Paris Games by finishing within the automatic standard of 50.95 seconds for the Olympics.

Pahal, 24, became the second fastest women’s 400m runner in Indian history, behind Hima Das (50.79 seconds). Pahal finished ahead of Devy Aniba Zala of Gujarat (53.44) and Sneha K from Kerala (53.51).

Q: Who qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024 in the women’s 400m event?

A) Hima Das
B) Devy Aniba Zala
C) Sneha K
D) Kiran Pahal

Ans : D) Kiran Pahal
Kiran Pahal from Haryana qualified for the Paris Olympics. She clocked 50.92 seconds in women’s 400m at the National Inter-state Athletics Championships in Panchkula.

India reached the final of T20 World Cup after defeating England

India defeated England by 68 runs in Guyana and reached into the finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Team India score 171 and bowled out the England for 103 in 16.4 overs.

Brief score:

  • India 171/7 (Rohit Sharma 57, Suryakumar Yadav 47; Chris Jordan 3-37)
  • England 103 (Harry Brook 25, Jos Buttler 23; Axar Patel 3-23, Kuldeep Yadav 3-19).

Axar Patel was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his vital three-wicket haul and a quickfire 10 runs off 6 balls.

India’s victory marks their third entry into a T20 World Cup final, following their triumph against Pakistan in 2007 and their loss to Sri Lanka in 2014.

Q: Who won the 2024 T20 World Cup semifinal between India and England?

A) India
B) England
C) The match was abandoned
D) It ended in a tie

Ans : A) India
India defeated England by 68 runs in Guyana and reached into the finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

International Solar Alliance (ISA) : Paraguay become the 100th country to join

Paraguay has become the 100th country to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a full member. Paraguay handed over its Instrument of Ratification to the ISA in New Delhi on 26 June 2024.

The ceremony involved Paraguay’s Ambassador to India, Fleming Raul Duarte, and Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary of Economic Diplomacy and States Division at India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

What is International Solar Alliance (ISA)?

The ISA was co-founded by India and France during the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris. The ISA aims to promote the deployment of solar energy worldwide, increase energy access, ensure energy security, and drive the transition to sustainable energy sources. The primary goal of the ISA is to contribute to the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement through rapid and massive deployment of solar energy technologies.

The ISA Framework Agreement has 119 signatory countries, with 100 having completed the ratification process to become full members. Spain joined as the 99th full member in May 2024.

Q: Which country became the 100th full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in June 2024?

a) Spain
b) Paraguay
c) India
d) France

Ans : b) Paraguay
The ISA was co-founded by India and France during the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris. Paraguay has become the 100th country to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a full member in New Delhi on 26 June 2024.

Harmanpreet Singh to Caption of Indain Hockey Team at Olympic 2024

Hockey India announced a 16-member Indian men’s hockey team for the Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled from 26th July to 11th August.

The team will be led by Harmanpreet Singh (Caption), with Hardik Singh as the vice-captain.

  • Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh is part of the squad.
  • The defence line consists of Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Sumit, and Sanjay.
  • The midfield includes Raj Kumar Pal, Shamsher Singh, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad.
  • The forward line features Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Mandeep Singh, and Gurjant Singh.
  • Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, midfielder Nilakanta Sharma, and defender Jugraj Singh are named as alternate.

India is placed in Pool B with Belgium, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand, and Ireland. To advance to the Quarter-Finals, India must secure a top-four finish in their pool. Pool A includes the Netherlands, Germany, Great Britain, Spain, South Africa, and France.

The Indian men’s team has a rich Olympic history with 12 medals: 8 Gold, 1 Silver, and 3 Bronze. The current team aims to add another medal to this tally.

Q: Who is the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team for the Paris 2024 Olympics?

a) PR Sreejesh
b) Manpreet Singh
c) Harmanpreet Singh
d) Hardik Singh

Ans : c) Harmanpreet Singh
Hockey India announced a 16-member Indian men’s hockey team for the Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled from 26th July to 11th August.

DRDO handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy on 26 June 2024 in New Delhi.

The Microwave Obscurant Chaff is a niche technology developed by DRDO’s Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur. This technology obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield around platforms and assets, reducing radar detection.

Special type of fibres have been assembled in the medium range chaff rocket. When fired, the rocket forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space, spreading over a sufficient area.

Q: What happens when the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) is fired?

a) It explodes on impact
b) It forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space
c) It releases flares
d) It emits a high-frequency sound

Ans : b) It forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy on 26 June 2024 in New Delhi.

Om Birla elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha

BJP MP Om Birla was re-elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha on 26 June 2024. He was elected with a voice vote as the opposition, which fielded Congress MP K. Suresh, did not press for voting.

After his election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorted Mr. Birla to the Speaker’s chair.

Om Birla had previously served as the Speaker in the 17th Lok Sabha since 2019.

Q: Who was re-elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha on 26 June 2024?

a) K. Suresh
b) Rahul Gandhi
c) Om Birla
d) Kiren Rijiju

c) Om Birla
BJP MP Om Birla was elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha. He had previously served as the Speaker in the 17th Lok Sabha.

Rahul Gandhi appointed Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha

On 25 June 2024, the Congress party announced Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha. Rahul Gandhi is won from Raebareli constituency.

The position of LoP had been vacant since 2014, as no opposition party met the required minimum of 10% of the total Lok Sabha seats.

The LoP is recognized as the leader of the largest opposition party with not less than one-tenth of the Lok Sabha seats. The Congress party secured 100 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, an improvement from 52 seats in 2019.

The LoP is a member of crucial committees such as Public Accounts (Chairman), Public Undertakings, Estimates, and various Joint Parliamentary Committees.

The LoP is entitled to membership in selection committees for heads of statutory bodies like the Central Vigilance Commission, Central Information Commission, CBI, NHRC, and Lokpal.

The LoP in both Houses were accorded statutory recognition under the Salaries and Allowances of Leader of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, with salary and allowances equivalent to a cabinet minister. The office of the LoP is not mentioned in the Constitution.

Q: Who was appointed as the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha on 25 June 2024?

A) Mallikarjun Kharge
B) Sonia Gandhi
C) Rahul Gandhi
D) KC Venugopal

Ans : C) Rahul Gandhi

Q: Why was the position of Leader of Opposition vacant for 2014 to 2024?

A) No opposition party met the required minimum of 10% of the total Lok Sabha seats
B) The position was abolished
C) The ruling party opposed the appointment
D) There was a lack of eligible candidates

Ans : A) No opposition party met the required minimum of 10% of the total Lok Sabha seats
The position of LoP had been vacant since 2014, as no opposition party met the required minimum of 10% of the total Lok Sabha seats.

Wikileaks Founder Julian Assange released from UK Prison after deal with US Authorities

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was released from a UK prison on June 24, 2024, ending a years-long legal battle. This came after he struck a plea deal with US authorities.

As per the conditions finalised in a tentative deal with the US Justice Department, Assange will plead guilty to criminal charges but will serve no time in US custody. Assange was charged with conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defense information. The Wikileaks files, which revealed information about the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, had been a point of contention.

Assange spent seven years in Ecuador’s London embassy before being taken into custody in the UK. Swedish authorities dropped separate charges of rape and sexual assault against him in 2019.

Julian Assange will return to Australia after his release.

Question: Who is the founder of WikiLeaks?

A) Julian Assange
B) Edward Snowden
C) Chelsea Manning
D) Glenn Greenwald

Answer: A) Julian Assange
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was released from a UK prison on June 24, 2024, ending a years-long legal battle. This came after he struck a plea deal with US authorities.

Men’s T20 World Cup: India Advanced to Semi-Finals by defeating Australia 

India advanced to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after defeating Australia by 24 runs on 24 June 2024 in St. Lucia.

  • India posted a target of 206 runs.
  • Rohit Sharma scored 92 off 41 deliveries and was awarded Player of the Match.
  • Suryakumar Yadav contributed 31 runs off 16 balls.
  • Australia scored 181 for seven in 20 overs, with Travis Head scoring 76 runs from 43 balls.

India will face England in the semi-final in Guyana on 27 June 2024.

Q: India will face which team in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup?

A) Australia
B) West Indies
C) England
D) New Zealand

Ans : C) England
India advanced to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after defeating Australia by 24 runs on 24 June 2024 in St. Lucia. India will face England in the semi-final in Guyana on 27 June 2024.

Extension of Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Kumar Deka for one-year

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the extension of Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Kumar Deka for one-year until June 2025. Tapan Kumar Deka is a 1988-batch IPS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre.

The tenure of Bharat Lal as Secretary General of the National Human Rights Commission has also been extended for one year up to June 30, 2025.

Q: Who has been given a one-year extension as the Chief of the Intelligence Bureau in June 2024?

A) Ajit Doval
B) Rajiv Jain
C) Tapan Kumar Deka
D) Arvind Kumar

Ans : C) Tapan Kumar Deka
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the extension of Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Kumar Deka for one-year until June 2025.

India is hosting 64th International Sugar Organisation (ISO) Council meeting from June 25 to 27 in New Delhi

India is hosting the 64th International Sugar Organisation (ISO) Council Meeting from June 25 to 27 in New Delhi. Delegates from over 30 countries and representatives of many international organisations are participating.

Discussions will focus on critical issues of the sugar and biofuel sector. An industrial tour to a grain-based distillery in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh will showcase India’s biofuel technology. A workshop titled ‘Sugar and Biofuels – Emerging Vistas’ will be held at Bharat Mandapam, inaugurated by Minister Pralhad Joshi.

India is nominated as the Chair of ISO for 2024 due to being the largest consumer and second-largest producer of sugar. ISO has about 85 member countries, covering nearly 90% of global sugar production. ISO aims to foster mutual understanding and progressive approaches among major sugar-producing, consuming, and trading nations.

Q: Where is the 64th International Sugar Organisation (ISO) Council Meeting held in India ?

A) Mumbai
B) New Delhi
C) Bengaluru
D) Hyderabad

Ans : B) New Delhi
India hosted the 64th International Sugar Organisation (ISO) Council Meeting from June 25 to 27 in New Delhi.

Q: Which country is the largest consumer and second-largest producer of sugar?

A) Brazil
B) India
C) China
D) Thailand

Ans : B) India
Brazil is the largest producer of Sugarcane.

First Session of the 18th Lok Sabha from June 24 to July 3, 2024.

First Session of the 18th Lok Sabha which began on June 24, and scheduled to run up to July 3, 2024.

Oath-taking ceremony: All newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs), including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took oath. This session marked the historic first swearing-in ceremony in the new Parliament building.

Speaker election: The session will witness the election of the new Lok Sabha Speaker.

President’s address: The President of India will address the House, outlining the government’s agenda.

Possible stormy sessions: The opposition, strengthened after the elections, staged protests highlighting concerns about democracy and the controversial NEET-UG 2024 exam.

The 264th Session of Rajya Sabha will also commence on June 27 and conclude on July 3.

Q: What is a significant aspect of this first Session of the 18th Lok Sabha which began on June 24, 2024?

a) Introduction of a new voting system
b) First oath-taking ceremony in a newly built Parliament building
c) Introduction of a no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister
d) Farewell address by the outgoing President

Ans : b) First oath-taking ceremony in a newly built Parliament building
This session marked the historic first swearing-in ceremony of newly elected Members of 18th Lok Sabha, in the new Parliament building.

53rd GST Council meeting held on June 22, 2024, in New Delhi

The 53rd meeting of the GST Council, presided over by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on June 22 2024. The next GST Council meeting tentatively scheduled for mid to late August.

Decision’s of 53rd GST Council meeting,:

  • Aadhaar-based authentication: The council decided to implement a phased rollout of Aadhaar-based biometric authentication for registration throughout India. This aims to curb fake invoicing and improve compliance.
  • Tax rate changes:
    • Milk cans: A uniform 12% GST rate was set for milk cans.
    • Platform tickets: Platform tickets for railway travel will now be exempt from GST.
    • Cartons: The GST rate on cartons was reduced from 18% to 12% to provide relief to apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Relief for students: Hostel accommodation services with a monthly rent exceeding ₹20,000 will be subject to GST. However, hostels charging up to ₹20,000 per month will be exempt, providing relief for students.

GST Council in India:

Function:

  • Established under the Constitution to oversee the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
  • Acts as a joint forum between the Central Government (Union Finance Minister) and all Indian states and union territories (represented by their Finance Ministers).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Decides on GST tax rates (currently 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%).
  • Determines exemptions for certain goods and services.
  • Sets deadlines for filing GST returns and compliance procedures.
  • Recommends changes to GST laws and regulations.
  • Addresses revenue sharing between central and state governments.

Q: Who chairs the meetings of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council?

a) The President of India
b) The Prime Minister of India
c) The Union Finance Minister
d) The Governor of the RBI

Ans : c) The Union Finance Minister
The 53rd meeting of the GST Council, presided over by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on June 22 2024.

Q. How many tax rate slabs are currently recommended by the GST Council (as of June 2024)?

a) Two
b) Three
c) Four
d) Five

Ans : c) Four
GST tax rates (currently 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%).

ISRO successfully conducted the third and final landing experiment of its Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the third and final landing experiment of its Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’ on June 23, 2024 at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

The experiment, named RLV LEX-03, demonstrated autonomous landing capability.

The Chinook helicopter released Pushpak from an altitude of 4.5 kilometers. Pushpak autonomously executed cross-range correction maneuvers and accomplished a precise horizontal landing at the runway center line, approaching with a speed of 320 kmph.

The experiment reaffirmed ISRO’s expertise in acquiring critical technologies for the development of a reusable launch vehicle, which will help reduce launch costs and advance space exploration.

Pushpak employed multi-sensory fusion including an inertial sensor, radar altimeter, flush air data system, Pseudolite system, and NavIC navigation system.

Q: Where was the third and final landing experiment of ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’ successfully conducted?

A) Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
B) Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka
C) Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Kerala
D) Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

Ans : B) Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka

NEET (UG) Examination 2024; Director NTA removed, CBI to enquire into the alleged irregularities

Subodh Kumar Singh, Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA), was removed from his position on June 23, 2024, amid controversy over the NEET examination. Pradeep Singh Kharola, Chairman and MD of India Trade Promotion Organisation, has been given additional charge of NTA’s Director General.

Investigation into NEET Irregularities: The Ministry of Education has handed over the investigation of alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) Examination 2024 to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Legislation: The Central Government has enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, to prevent unfair practices in public examinations.

High-Level Committee Formation: A High-Level Committee of Experts chaired by former ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Radhakrishnan and includes six other prominent members has been formed to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations by the NTA.

Q: Who was removed from the position of Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA) in June, 2024 after irregularities in the NEET (UG) Examination 2024?

A) Pradeep Singh Kharola
B) Subodh Kumar Singh
C) Dr. K. Radhakrishnan
D) Dr. Randeep Guleria

Ans : B) Subodh Kumar Singh
Subodh Kumar Singh, Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA), was removed from his position on June 23, 2024, amid controversy over the NEET examination. Pradeep Singh Kharola, Chairman and MD of India Trade Promotion Organisation, has been given additional charge of NTA’s Director General.

Q: What act has the Central Government enacted to prevent unfair means in public examinations?

A) Public Examination (Prevention of Cheating) Act, 2024
B) Public Examination (Prevention of Malpractices) Act, 2024
C) Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024
D) Public Examination (Integrity and Fairness) Act, 2024

Ans : C) Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024
The Central Government has enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, to prevent unfair practices in public examinations.

Q: Who is the chairperson of the High-Level Committee of Experts constituted to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations by the NTA. ?

A) Dr. Randeep Guleria
B) Prof. B. J. Rao
C) Dr. K. Radhakrishnan
D) Prof. Aditya Mittal

Ans : C) Dr. K. Radhakrishnan
A High-Level Committee of Experts chaired by former ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Radhakrishnan and includes six other prominent members has been formed to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations by the NTA.

National Testing Agency (NTA) postponed the Joint CSIR-UGC-NET

The National Testing Agency (NTA) postponed the June edition of the Joint CSIR-UGC-NET on June 21, 2024, amid controversies regarding irregularities in the NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams.

  1. Purpose of CSIR-UGC-NET: The Joint CSIR-UGC-NET determines eligibility for junior research fellowships and admissions to PhD programs in science courses.
  2. New Law to Address Exam Malpractices: The Central Government notified a stringent law to combat malpractices and irregularities in competitive exams. The new law includes severe penalties for offenders, with a maximum jail term of 10 years and fines up to ₹1 crore.

Q: What is the purpose of the Joint CSIR-UGC-NET exam?

A) To determine eligibility for undergraduate admissions
B) To determine eligibility for junior research fellowships and PhD admissions in science courses
C) To assess eligibility for government jobs
D) To qualify for medical school admissions

Ans : B) To determine eligibility for junior research fellowships and PhD admissions in science courses
National Testing Agency (NTA) postponed the June 2024 exam of the Joint CSIR-UGC-NET on June 21, 2024, amid controversies regarding irregularities in the NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams.

“The Golden Thread,” won the Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary in Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF)

The closing ceremony of 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) took place in Mumbai, on 21 June 2024.

  1. Best Documentary Award: “The Golden Thread,” an Indian documentary, won the Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary in the international category. Actress Poonam Dhillon presented the award to director Nishita Jain during the closing ceremony.
  2. Special Category Award: In the ‘India in Amrit Kaal’ special category, Edmond Ranson received the Best Short Film award for “Life In Loom.”
  3. Best Debut Director: Sreemoyi Singh won the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari Award for Best Debut Director for her film “And, Towards Happy Alleys.”
  4. National Competition Winners:
  • “6-A Akash Ganga” won the Silver Conch Award for Best Documentary.
  • “Salt” won the Silver Conch for Best Short Fiction.
  • “Nirjara” from NID Ahmedabad won the Silver Conch for Best Animation.
  1. International Competition Winners:
  • “Zima” from Poland won the Silver Conch for Best Animation.
  • “Sour Milk” from Estonia won the Silver Conch for Best Short Fiction.

Q: Which Indian documentary won the Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary in the international category at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival?

A) Life In Loom
B) And, Towards Happy Alleys
C) The Golden Thread
D) 6-A Akash Ganga

Ans : C) The Golden Thread
“The Golden Thread,” an Indian documentary, directed by director Nishita Jain won the Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary in the international category during closing ceremony of 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) took place in Mumbai, on 21 June 2024.

New Recruitment Policy in Uttar Pradesh to Ensure Fair Competitive Exams

The Uttar Pradesh government is planning new policies to ensure fair recruitment exams due to alleged irregularities in competitive exams.

Key points of the new policies include:

  1. Appointment of Agencies: Four agencies will conduct the recruitment examinations.
  2. Exam Location Restrictions: Candidates must take exams outside their home board area, with exceptions for disabled individuals and women.
  3. Phased Exams for Large Numbers: Exams with more than four lakh candidates will be conducted in two phases.
  4. OMR Sheet Scanning: Scanning of OMR sheets will be done by the Commission and the Board to prevent result rigging.
  5. Examination Centers: Two categories of examination centers will be established:
  • Category 1: Government Inter Colleges, Medical Colleges, and Engineering Colleges.
  • Category 2: Aided schools.
    Centers will not be set up in schools and colleges without financial support.
  1. Police Exam Controversy: The UP Police Recruitment and Promotion Board canceled the constable recruitment exam due to a leaked question paper, affecting over 48 lakh candidates. Following this, the chairperson of the Board, Renuka Mishra, was sacked and replaced by Rajeev Krishna.
  2. Investigation of Irregularities: An order has been issued to investigate alleged irregularities in the Review Officer/Assistant Review Officer (RO/ARO) exams.

These measures are aimed at restoring the integrity of the recruitment process in the state.

Q: What is the primary reason for the Uttar Pradesh government implementing new policies for recruitment exams in June 2024?

A) To increase the number of candidates
B) To ensure exams are conducted in a free and fair manner
C) To reduce the duration of exams
D) To lower the exam fees

Ans : B) To ensure exams are conducted in a free and fair manner
The Uttar Pradesh Police constable recruitment exam was cancelled due to a leaked question paper, affecting over 48 lakh candidates.

10th International Day of Yoga celebrated on 21 June 2024

The 10th International Day of Yoga was celebrated across India on 21 June 2024. The main function led by PM Modi was held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

The theme for this year is “Yoga for Self and Society,” emphasizing yoga’s role in individual well-being and societal harmony.

Indian Army personnel performed yoga in icy heights on the northern frontier and in Eastern Ladakh.

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel performed yoga at Muguthang Sub Sector in Sikkim at an altitude of more than 15,000 feet.

Border Security Force (BSF) personnel performed yoga at zero line at the Joint Check post at Attari, Amritsar.

Q: Where was the main function for the 10th International Day of Yoga held in 2024?

A) New Delhi
B) Leh
C) Srinagar
D) Lucknow

Ans : C) Srinagar
The main function led by PM Modi was held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

Chenab Rail Bridge : World’s highest railway bridge

Indian Railways conducted a successful trial run on 20 June 2024 across the newly constructed Chenab Rail Bridge.

Chenab Rail Bridge Height: The bridge stands at 359 meters (1,178 feet) above the Chenab River, making it the world’s highest railway bridge.

Bridge Length and Significance: The Chenab Rail Bridge is 1,315 meters long and is a vital part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, aimed at connecting the Kashmir Valley with India’s national railway network. Officials expect the entire USBRL project to be completed by the end of this year.

Q: How high is the Chenab Rail Bridge above the Chenab River?

A) 250 meters
B) 300 meters
C) 359 meters
D) 400 meters

Ans : C) 359 meters
Chenab Rail Bridge stands at 359 meters (1,178 feet) above the Chenab River, making it the world’s highest railway bridge.

North Korea and Russia sign pact to provide all available military help if other is attacked

North Korea and Russia agreed to provide immediate military assistance if either faced armed aggression, under a newly signed pact during Putin’s visit to North Korea on 20 June 2024.

The agreement signifies a “comprehensive strategic partnership” between Russia and North Korea. The pact specifies that if either country faces armed invasion, the other will provide military and other assistance per Article 51 of the U.N. Charter and their national laws.

UN Charter Article 51: This article provides the right for collective self-defense actions by member countries.

Historical Context: This agreement revives a mutual defense agreement under a 1961 treaty between North Korea and the Soviet Union, which was annulled in 1990.

Q: What did North Korea and Russia agree to provide under their newly signed pact during Putin visit to North Korea on 20 June 2024?

A) Economic assistance
B) Military assistance
C) Diplomatic support
D) Humanitarian aid

Ans : B) Military assistance
North Korea and Russia agreed to provide immediate military assistance if either faced armed aggression.

Q: Article 51 of the U.N. Charter, provides for the right of:

A) Economic sanctions
B) Collective self-defense actions
C) Environmental protection
D) Humanitarian intervention

Ans : B) Collective self-defense actions
North Korea and Russia signed “comprehensive strategic partnership” under UN Charter Article 51 to provide all available military help if other is attacked

Government cancelled the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination; order CBI Enquiry

The government has cancelled the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination on 18 June 2024 in two shifts across different cities. A fresh examination will be conducted later, with information to be shared separately.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) received inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation.

UGC-NET, which is a Test to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for ‘Assistant Professor’ as well as ‘Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professor’ in Indian Universities.

Q.: Which agency conducted the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination?

A) University Grants Commission (UGC)
B) Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)
C) National Testing Agency (NTA)
D) UPSC

Answer: C) National Testing Agency (NTA)
The government has cancelled the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination on 18 June 2024

Q.: What is the purpose of the UGC-NET exam conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) ?

A) To determine eligibility for undergraduate admissions in Indian universities
B) To determine eligibility for ‘Assistant Professor’ and ‘Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professor’ in Indian universities
C) To evaluate the performance of Indian university staff
D) To certify the quality of higher education institutions in India

Answer: B) To determine eligibility for ‘Assistant Professor’ and ‘Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professor’ in Indian universities

Cabinet approves Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 June 2024, approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Kharif crops for the Marketing Season 2024-25.

The MSP increase aims to ensure remunerative prices for growers. The highest absolute MSP increases are for nigerseed (Rs. 983 per quintal), sesamum (Rs. 632 per quintal), and tur/arhar (Rs. 550 per quintal). The Paddy (Common) has been fixed Rs. 2300 per quintal, increase of Rs 117 from the Rs 2183 in Season 2023-24.

The Full list of Cabinet approves Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25

Ques:What is the new MSP for Paddy (Common) for the Marketing Season 2024-25?

A) Rs. 2183 per quintal
B) Rs. 2300 per quintal
C) Rs. 2203 per quintal
D) Rs. 2625 per quintal

Answer: B) Rs. 2300 per quintal
Union Cabinet on 19 June 2024, approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Kharif crops for the Marketing Season 2024-25.

Vinod Ganatra receive the ‘Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his contribution to films

Vinod Ganatra has become the first Indian to receive the prestigious ‘Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award’ from South Africa for his contribution to films. He was honored with the award at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival for his contributions to children’s cinema.

Ganatra has won 36 national and international awards, including the ‘Janakinath Gaur Award’ from Doordarshan for his children’s program ‘Baingan Raja.’ He is the only Indian filmmaker to receive the ‘Liv Ullmann Peace Prize’ in Chicago for his Gujarati film ‘Harun-Arun.’

Ganatra has served on the jury of over 100 national, regional, and international film festivals in the past three decades. He has edited and directed more than 400 documentaries and newsreels. He has produced 25 multilingual television programs for children and youth.

Q: Who is the first Indian to receive the prestigious ‘Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award’ from South Africa for his contribution to films?

a) Satyajit Ray
b) Vinod Ganatra
c) Mira Nair
d) Shyam Benegal

Ans : b) Vinod Ganatra
He was honored with the award at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival for his contributions to children’s cinema.

Scroll to Top