Current Affairs

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  • 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

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Mother’s Day : Second Sunday in May

Mother’s Day is a special occasion celebrated in various countries around the world to honor mothers and mother-figures. In the United States, Mother’s Day is observed on the second Sunday in May.

Origin:

The modern form of Mother’s Day originated in the United States. Anna Jarvis, inspired by her mother Ann Reeves Jarvis (a peace activist during the American Civil War), campaigned to establish Mother’s Day as a recognized holiday.

The first Mother’s Day service took place in 1907 at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia.

Q: Mother’s Day is celebrated ?

A) First Sunday in May
B) Second Sunday in May
C) Third Sunday in May
D) Fourth Sunday in May

Answer: B) Second Sunday in May

Magnus Carlsen win World Rapid and Blitz Poland Chess Tournament

Magnus Carlsen claimed victory in the World Rapid and Blitz Poland event after defeating all nine other players in a row on May 12, 2024. Magnus Carlsen claimed victory after defeating all nine other players in a row.

  • R Praggnanandhaa, an Indian chess player, defeated Magnus Carlsen, the world number one, on May 11, 2024.
  • Wei Yi , China Chess player secured second position.
  • The event featured three Indian prodigies: D Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Arjun Erigaisi, along with other top grandmasters like Anish Giri, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, and Vincent Keymer.
  • Praggnanandhaa finished in fourth place with 19 points, while Erigaisi secured the fifth position with 18 points.
  • D Gukesh, the World Chess Championship challenger, ended in the last spot with 12.5 points.

Q: Who won the World Rapid and Blitz Poland chess tournament in May 2024?

a) Wei Yi
b) Arjun Erigaisi
c) R Praggnanandhaa
d) Magnus Carlsen

Correct Answer: d) Magnus Carlsen

Q: Which Indian Chess Player defeated world number one Magnus Carlsen in the Superbet rapid and blitz chess tournament in May 2024?

a) Vishwanath Anand
b) R Praggnanandhaa
c) Arjun Erigaisi
d) D. Gukesh.

Ans : b) R Praggnanandhaa

Powerful Solar Storm hit Earth causing Celestial Light Displays in Skies from Australia to Britain

An unusually powerful solar storm hit Earth on the night of May 10, causing celestial light displays from Australia to Britain. The solar storm poses a threat of potential disruptions to Earth’s communications networks, satellites, and power grids as it continues into the weekend.

  1. The solar storm was caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun.
  2. It was upgraded to an ‘extreme’ geomagnetic storm, the first since the ‘Halloween Storms’ of October 2003.
  3. More Coronal Mass Ejections are expected to impact the planet in the upcoming days.
  4. Social media was filled with images of auroras from northern Europe to Australia, New Zealand, and neighboring islands in the Pacific Ocean.
  5. The solar flares originated from a large cluster of sunspots, 17 times wider than Earth.
  6. The Sun is nearing the peak of an 11-year cycle, resulting in increased solar activity.
  7. Fluctuating magnetic fields during geomagnetic storms can create currents in long wires, potentially causing power outages and issues in engineering.
  8. Spacecraft are vulnerable to high levels of radiation during solar storms, but Earth’s atmosphere shields the planet.
  9. Pigeons and other species with internal biological compasses may be impacted by geomagnetic storms.
  10. The Carrington Event, the most powerful geomagnetic storm in recorded history, occurred in September 1859.

Q: What caused the powerful solar storm that hit Earth on May 10, 2024?

a) Solar flares
b) Coronal mass ejections (CMEs)
c) Lunar eclipse
d) Solar eclipse

Ans : b) Coronal mass ejections (CMEs)

Q:What is the approximate frequency of the solar activity cycle mentioned in the passage?

a) 7 years
b) 11 years
c) 50 years
d) 100 years

Ans : b) 11 years

Aman Sehrawat qualify for 2024 Paris Olympics in the men’s 57kg freestyle category

Indian wrestler Aman Sehrawat has become the first Indian male wrestler to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. He secured a Paris quota in the men’s 57kg freestyle category at the World Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers in Istanbul, Turkiye.

Sehrawat beat Chongsong Han of Korea 12-2 in the semi-final to secure quota for Paris Olympic. This is India’s secure sixth quota in wrestling for the 2024 Olympics. All of the previous five quotas were obtained by the Indian women wrestlers.

Q: Who is the first Indian male wrestler to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics?

a) KD Jadhav
b) Aman Sehrawat
c) Sushil Kumar
d) Yogeshwar Dutt

Ans : b) Aman Sehrawat

Q: In which category did Aman Sehrawat secure a Paris quota for the Olympics?

a) Men’s 65kg freestyle
b) Men’s 57kg freestyle
c) Men’s 74kg freestyle
d) Men’s 86kg freestyle

Ans: b) Men’s 57kg freestyle

ISRO successfully conducts hot testing of PS4, Additive Manufactured Liquid Engine

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) achieved a milestone by successfully hot testing a liquid rocket engine manufactured through Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology on May 9, 2024.

  1. The engine tested was the PS4 engine of the PSLV upper stage, traditionally manufactured through machining and welding methods.
  2. The redesigned engine, using the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) concept, was produced in a single-piece using Laser Powder Bed Fusion, eliminating 19 weld joints and reducing raw material usage and production time significantly.
  3. Manufacturing of the engine was carried out by M/s WIPRO 3D, an Indian industry, and hot testing was conducted at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri.
  4. Prior to hot testing, detailed flow, thermal modeling, structural simulation, and cold flow characterization were carried out, leading to four successful developmental hot tests of integrated engine, validating performance parameters.
  5. The engine successfully passed the full qualification duration of 665 s during hot testing, meeting expected performance parameters.
  6. Plans are underway to incorporate this Additive Manufactured PS4 engine into the regular PSLV program.

Q: Which liquid rocket engine did ISRO successfully hot test through Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology on May 9, 2024?

a) PS1 engine
b) PS2 engine
c) PS3 engine
d) PS4 engine

Ans : d) PS4 engine

Dileep Sanghani elected as Chairman of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO)

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) conducted its 15th RGB elections for its Board of Directors, covering members from over 36,000 cooperative societies at IFFCO Sadan, New Delhi. Dileep Sanghani emerged as the Chairman of IFFCO, with Balvir Singh as the Vice Chairman.

  1. The elections for 21 Directors were held on May 9, 2024.
  2. Managing Director IFFCO, Dr. US Awasthi, lauded the fair and transparent conduct of the elections and congratulated the Chairman, Vice Chairman, and all board members.
  3. The election process began with the launch of an innovative election portal, ensuring fair, equal, and transparent participation.
  4. With over 36,000 cooperative societies, IFFCO undertook the monumental task of electing RGB members, reflecting the vastness and complexity of its operations.

Q: Who emerged as the Chairman of IFFCO following the elections in May 2024?

a) Balvir Singh
b) Dileep Sanghani
c) Dr. US Awasthi
d) Jagdeep Singh Nakai

Ans : b) Dileep Sanghani

United Nations General Assembly supported a Palestinian bid for full U.N. membership

The United Nations General Assembly supported a Palestinian bid for full U.N. membership on May 10. The General Assembly recommended the U.N. Security Council to reconsider the matter favorably.

  • The vote reflected global support for the Palestinian bid after the U.S. vetoed it in the Security Council the previous month.
  • The resolution passed with 143 votes in favor, 9 against (including the U.S. and Israel), and 25 abstentions.
  • This resolution doesn’t grant full U.N. membership to Palestine but acknowledges its qualification to join.

Q: What is the outcome of the General Assembly’s resolution on May 10, regarding Palestinian membership?

a) Grants full U.N. membership to Palestine
b) Rejects Palestinian membership entirely
c) Acknowledges Palestine’s qualification to join the U.N.
d) Recommends military intervention in the region

Ans : c) Acknowledges Palestine’s qualification to join the U.N.

Supreme Court gave temporary bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal

The Supreme Court gave temporary bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on 10 May 2024. He is allowed to campaign in the ongoing general elections.

The Enforcement Directorate arrested Kejriwal, a key leader of Aam Admi Party (AAP), on March 21 in connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s liquor policy.

Lok Sabha Election began on April 19 and more than half the total 543 seats were completed with the third phase on May 7. The Delhi will vote on May 25. Voting concludes on June 1 and counting is set for June 4.

Q: Why was Arvind Kejriwal arrested by the Enforcement Directorate?

a) In connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s healthcare policy
b) In connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s education policy
c) In connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s liquor policy
d) In connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s transportation policy

Ans : c) In connection with corruption allegations related to Delhi’s liquor policy

India surpasses Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power generator

India surpasses Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power generator in 2023, according to Ember report. Global Electricity Review 2024 released alongside the world’s first open dataset on electricity generation, covering 80 countries representing 92% of global electricity demand.

  • Solar power’s share in global electricity production reaches a record 5.5% in 2023.
  • India sees the fourth-largest increase in solar generation (+18 TWh) in 2023, following China, the United States, and Brazil, accounting for 75% of overall growth.
  • India expands solar generation capacity significantly from ranking ninth in 2015 to 5.8% share in 2023.
  • Globally, solar power generation increases sixfold between 2015 and 2023, with India experiencing a seventeen-fold increase during the same period.
  • IEA forecasts solar power to constitute 22% of global electricity generation by 2030.
  • COP28 goal to triple global renewables capacity by 2030 could help achieve this trajectory.
  • India aims to triple renewable capacity by 2030, but Ember’s analysis highlights the need for substantial annual capacity additions to meet this target.

Q: According to the Global Electricity Review 2024, which country has overtaken Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power generator in 2023?

a) China
b) India
c) Brazil
d) United States

Ans : b) India

Baba Kedarnath Dham portals reopen on May 10, 2024

Baba Kedarnath Dham portals reopening on May 10, 2024, after six months closure during winter.

  • Devotees gathering at Sonprayag and Gaurikund, last halt before Kedarnath.
  • Pilgrims booking rides on horses/mules or trekking on foot to reach the shrine.
  • Lord Kedarnath’s Panchmukhi Doli arrived at Gaurikund after stopovers at Guptkashi and Ukhimath.
  • Char Dham Yatra starting on May 10 with opening of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath shrines.
  • Badrinath Dham portals to open on May 12.
  • Char Dham Yatra significant for Hindus, taking place from April-May to October-November.

Q: Which of the following shrines are part of the Char Dham Yatra mentioned in the passage?

a) Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath
b) Rameswaram, Dwarka, Puri, and Kedarnath
c) Tirupati, Vaishno Devi, Shirdi, and Kedarnath
d) Mahabalipuram, Amarnath, Somnath, and Badrinath

Ans : a) Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath

Air India Express Crew Members go on mass ‘Sick Leave’

Air India Express experienced a major disruption with over 70 flights cancelled or delayed due mass sick leave of senior crew members.

  1. Flight cancellations and delays began on 7 May night and continued into 8 May morning, leading to grounded flights on both domestic and international routes.
  2. Some senior crew members reportedly switched off their mobile phones just before flight operations, citing health issues, leaving no alternative staff available.
  3. Civil Aviation authorities are investigating the issue while Air India Express issued an apology to affected passengers.
  4. Passengers affected by cancellations are offered full refunds or complimentary rescheduling to another date.
  5. The incident underscores operational challenges faced by the airline industry, following a similar situation with Vistara on April 1, where over 100 flights were impacted due to pilots calling in sick.

Q: The senior crew member of which airline go on mass sick leave suddenly on 7 & 8 May 2024, causing disruption of more than 70 flights?

a) Indigo b) Vistara c) Air India Express d) Emirates

Ans : c) Air India Express

Raireshwar Fort, the highest polling booth of Maharashtra in the Baramati constituency

The Election Commission accomplished a logistical marvel by facilitating voting for 160 voters at Raireshwar Fort, the highest polling booth of Maharashtra in the Baramati constituency, located at 4,491 feet altitude.

  1. Journey to the Polling Station: Driving to the foothills of Raireshwar and further trekking 18 km via Rairi village. From there, a one-hour arduous trek, assisted by an iron ladder, led them to the polling station.
  2. Dedicated Election Staff: Despite the rugged terrain, election staff and officers were determined to ensure the democratic process, carrying essential voting machinery like EVMs and VVPAT devices to the polling station.
  3. Significance of Raireshwar Fort: Raireshwar Fort, historically significant and situated at a height of 4,505 feet, falls under the Baramati constituency, comprising six assembly seats.
  4. Maharashtra’s Contribution to Lok Sabha: With 48 Lok Sabha seats, Maharashtra is the second-largest contributor to the lower house of Parliament.

Q: How many Lok Sabha seats does Maharashtra contribute, making it the second-largest contributor to the lower house of Parliament (Lok Sabha) ?

a) 28 b) 38 c) 48 d) 58

Ans : c) 48

Indian Coast Guard partners with Jindal Steel & Power for the supply of indigenous marine-grade steel

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Jindal Steel & Power (JSP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on May 7 in New Delhi to increase indigenous content in shipbuilding, particularly focusing on enhancing the supply of indigenous marine-grade steel.

  1. The partnership highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing complex security challenges, emphasizing collaboration between government agencies and the private sector.
  2. Key benefits outlined in the MoU include ensuring quality, grades, and dimensions of marine-grade steel, with designated steel plants earmarked for manufacturing.
  3. The timely supply of marine-grade steel to shipbuilding yards serving the ICG is a crucial aspect of the partnership.

Q: Indian Coast Guard (ICG) partnered with which private company for the supply of indigenous marine-grade steel?

a) Reliance Industries
b) Tata Steel
c) Jindal Steel & Power (JSP)
d) Bharat Forge Limited

Ans : c) Jindal Steel & Power (JSP)

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day : May 8

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed annually on May 8 to celebrate the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

  • The date was chosen because it marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
  • Henry Dunant was born on May 8, 1828, in Geneva, Switzerland, and passed away on October 30, 1910.
  • Dunant was also the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.
  • The idea for an annual international action to promote peace was introduced after World War I.
  • The proposal for an annual International Red Cross Day was adopted in 1948, with the first celebration occurring on May 8 of that year.
  • The official title of the day evolved over time, becoming “World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day” in 1984.

Q: When is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day observed?

a) May 7 b) May 8 c) May 9 d) May 10

Ans : b) May 8

Q: Why was May 8 chosen as the date for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?

a) It marks the end of World War I
b) It is the birthday of Henry Dunant
c) It is the anniversary of the International Red Cross
d) It is the anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize

Ans : b) It is the birthday of Henry Dunant

Q: Who is Henry Dunant?

a) Founder of the United Nations
b) Founder of the International Red Cross
c) Founder of the World Health Organization
d) Founder of the European Union

Ans : b) Founder of the International Red Cross

Lok Sabha Election : 3rd Phase Voter turnout – 64.58%

Voter turnout for the 3rd phase of Lok Sabha elections on June 7, 2024, was approximately 64.58%.

  • Assam recorded the highest turnout at 81.61%, while Maharashtra had the lowest at 53.95%.
  • Other states’ turnout percentages: Bihar (58.18%), Chhattisgarh (71.06%), Goa (75.20%), Gujarat (58.98%), Karnataka (70.41%), Madhya Pradesh (66.05%), Maharashtra (61.44%), Uttar Pradesh (57.34%), and West Bengal (75.79%).
  • Union Territory Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu had a turnout of 69.87%.
  • Over 1300 candidates, including about 120 women, contested in this phase.
  • In the 2019 elections, BJP won 72 of the 93 seats contested in this phase.
  • The elections span seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with counting scheduled for June 4.

Q: Which state recorded the highest voter turnout during the 3rd phase of Lok Sabha elections?

a) Bihar
b) Assam
c) Maharashtra
d) Uttar Pradesh

Ans : b) Assam

Russia’s Vladimir Putin Sworn in as President of Russia for fifth term 

President Vladimir Putin sworn in for for his fifth term  on May 7, 2024 at a ceremony held at Kremlin, Moscow, Russia

  • Putin has been in power since 1999, now starting a new mandate amidst the conflict in Ukraine.
  • Russian forces have regained initiative in Ukraine and seek to advance further in the east.
  • At 71, Putin maintains dominance in domestic politics and confronts Western countries over Ukraine, accusing them of aiming to weaken Russia.

Q: Vladimir Putin has been President of Russia since:

a) 2000
b) 1999
c) 2005
d) 2008

Ans : b) 1999

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) from 6th to 9th May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) took place from 6th to 9th May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in Dubai, UAE. It is a premier global trade show that brings together travel professionals, industry leaders, and visionaries.

Theme: Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship:

Record-Breaking Participation: ATM 2024 featured a record-breaking 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries. Approximately 41,000 visitors attended the event, making it a vibrant hub for travel professionals.

Ministry of Tourism, Government of India is also participating in Arabian Travel Mart 2024.

Networking and Opportunities: ATM provided a unique opportunity to make long-lasting business relationships. Attendees explored breathtaking destinations, travel technology solutions, airlines, hotels, and more.

Question : What is the Arabian Travel Market?

A) A global trade show for travel professionals and industry leaders.
B) A popular travel blog focused on Middle Eastern destinations.
C) A sustainable tourism initiative in Dubai.
D) A luxury hotel chain in the UAE.

Ans : A) A global trade show for travel professionals and industry leaders.

Indian 4x400m relay teams, both men and women, secured spots in the Paris Olympics

Indian 4x400m relay teams, both women and men, secured spots in the Paris Olympics after finishing second in their respective second-round heats at the World Athletics Relays in Nassau, Bahamas.

  1. The men’s team, consisting of Muhammad Anas Yahiya, Muhammad Ajmal, Arokia Rajiv, and Amoj Jacob, secured second place in their heat, trailing only behind the USA.
  2. In the women’s tournament, Jamaica finished first in the first heat, with the Indian team comprising Rupal Chaudhary, M R Poovamma, Jyothika Sri Dandi, and Subha Venkatesan securing second place.
  3. The top two teams from each of the three heats during the second round advanced to the Olympics, scheduled from July 26 to August 11.
  4. With these achievements, India now has 19 track and field competitors heading to Paris, including Neeraj Chopra, the reigning javelin throw champion.

Q: Which Indian athletes comprised the men’s 4x400m relay team qualifying for the Paris Olympics?

a) Rupal Chaudhary, M R Poovamma, Jyothika Sri Dandi, and Subha Venkatesan
b) Muhammad Anas Yahiya, Muhammad Ajmal, Arokia Rajiv, and Amoj Jacob
c) Neeraj Chopra, Muhammad Ajmal, Arokia Rajivand Rajesh Ramesh
d) Amoj Jacob, Neeraj Chopra, Muhammad Ajmal and Subha Venkatesan

Ans : b) Muhammad Anas Yahiya, Muhammad Ajmal, Arokia Rajiv, and Amoj Jacob

Sanjaya Kumar Mishra sworn in as President of GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT)

Justice (Retd.) Sanjaya Kumar Mishra sworn in as President of GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) on May 6, 2024, in New Delhi by Nirmala Sitharaman. Mishra, former Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court, appointed as first President of GSTAT after selection process led by Search-cum-Selection Committee headed by Chief Justice of India.

  1. GSTAT serves as Appellate Authority under Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, handling appeals against orders of first appellate authority under the Act and respective State/Union Territories GST Acts.
  2. Government designates Principal Bench in New Delhi and 31 State Benches. Process underway for appointing Judicial and Technical Members.

Aim of GSTAT: Provide swift, fair, and effective resolution of GST disputes, reduce burden on higher courts, enhance efficiency of GST system, promote transparency in tax environment.

Who is the first President of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT)?

A) Justice Sanjay Kumar Mishra
B) Justice (Retd.) Sanjaya Kumar Mishra
C) Justice Ramesh Gupta
D) Justice (Retd.) Rajesh Singh

Ans : B) Justice (Retd.) Sanjaya Kumar Mishra

Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup from 3 to 20 October in Bangladesh

The ninth ICC Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup 2024 is scheduled to take place from 3 to 20 October in Bangladesh. The schedule was announced at an event in Dhaka, attended by officials from the ICC and the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, along with the captains of the Indian and Bangladesh women’s teams.

  1. Ten teams will participate in the tournament, playing a total of 23 matches over 18 days.
  2. The matches will be held at two venues in Bangladesh: the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka and the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet.
  3. The opening match of the T20 World Cup will be between South Africa (runners-up of 2023) and England on the first day.
  4. On the same day, Bangladesh will face Qualifier 2 in the evening match in Dhaka.
  5. India will play New Zealand on 4th October at Sylhet in their first match of the tournament.

Q. : When and where is the ninth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 scheduled to take place?

a) 3 to 20 October in England
b) 3 to 20 October in Bangladesh
c) 1 to 18 November in Australia
d) 5 to 22 September in India

Ans : b) 3 to 20 October in Bangladesh

Indian Women 4×400 Meter Relay Team Qualifies For Paris Olympics 2024

The Indian women’s 4×400 metre relay team has qualified for Paris Olympics 2024. Team finishing second in its second-round heat at the World Athletics Relays at Nassau in Bahamas.

Rupal Chaudhary, M R Poovamma, Jyothika Sri Dandi and Subha Venkatesan clocked 3 minutes and 29.35 seconds to finish second behind Jamaica to book a Paris Games ticket.

Q.: Which of the following athletes was NOT a part of the Indian women’s 4×400 metre relay team that qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024?

a) Rupal Chaudhary
b) M R Poovamma
c) Hima Das
d) Jyothika Sri Dandi

Ans : c) Hima Das

International delegation to observes India’s General Election

75 delegates from 23 countries participate in the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) hosted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in New Delhi.

  • Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar highlights India’s role in global democracy, emphasizing voluntary registration and voting, with the ECI promoting participation through awareness programs.
  • The scale of India’s electoral process is emphasized, with 970 million eligible voters and over 15 million polling personnel expected to be involved across 1 million polling stations.
  • Briefings cover various aspects of the Indian General Elections 2024, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), IT initiatives, and media and social media’s role.
  • Delegates will visit six states to observe polling and preparedness in different constituencies, with the programme ending on May 9, 2024.
  • The delegation, comprises representatives from countries such as Bhutan, Mongolia, Australia, Madagascar, Fiji, among others, along with participation from organizations like the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and media teams from Bhutan and Israel.

Q.: How many countries’ representatives participated in the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) hosted by the Election Commission of India (ECI)?

a) 75
b) 23
c) 6
d) 15

Ans : b) 23

Q.: Who is the Chief Election Commissioner of India as on May 2024.

A) Sunil Arora 
B) Sushil Chandra 
C) Om Prakash Rawat 
D) Rajiv Kumar

Ans : D) Rajiv Kumar

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed as National Ambassador for UNICEF India

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed as National Ambassador for UNICEF India in May 2024. She will support UNICEF India’s mission focusing on children’s rights, including early childhood development, health, education, and gender equality.

  • Kareena Kapoor Khan has been associated with UNICEF India since 2014 as a Celebrity Advocate, advocating for girls’ education, gender equality, foundational learning, immunization, and breastfeeding.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasized the importance of children’s learning and safe return to school.
  • She has participated in UNICEF’s global campaigns on #EveryChildRights.

Question : Who was appointed as the National Ambassador for UNICEF India in May 2024?

a) Priyanka Chopra
b) Kareena Kapoor Khan
c) Deepika Padukone
d) Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Answer: b) Kareena Kapoor Khan

International Sun Day on May 3rd

Government of India commemorates International Sun Day on May 3rd, 2024, highlighting the benefits of solar energy for a greener planet.

  • Ministry of New and Renewable Energy organizes ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi to raise awareness about solar power’s role in mitigating climate change.
  • Marathon demonstrates India’s commitment to solar energy and environmental sustainability.
  • Solar Stops set up in six Indian cities to educate citizens about solar energy through interactive installations.
  • Solart, an All-India Intra-School Solar Art Competition, announced to promote awareness of solar energy among school students through artistic expressions.

Question : When is International Sun Day celebrated ?

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

Ans : c) May 3rd

Mount Ruang Volcano Eruptions: Recent Activity and Impact

Mount Ruang is a 725-meter (2,400-foot) volcano located on Ruang Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is one of approximately 130 active volcanoes in the country. Ruang island, North Sulawesi, home to 9,800 people, evacuated due to continuous explosive eruptions. Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado closed due to volcanic ash spread.

Recent Eruptions:

  • On April 17, 2024, Mount Ruang erupted.
  • On April 30, 2024, Mount Ruang erupted again, spewing ash almost 2 kilometers (more than a mile) into the sky.
  • The Indonesian geological service raised the alert level of the volcano to the highest level after detecting increased volcanic activity.

Previous Eruptions:

  • Mount Ruang has a history of eruptions dating back to at least 1808.
  • Indonesia situated on the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” an area of high seismic activity.

Q: What is the location of Mount Ruang volcano?

A) Java, Indonesia
B) Bali, Indonesia
C) North Sulawesi, Indonesia
D) Sumatra, Indonesia

Ans : C) North Sulawesi, Indonesia

World Press Freedom Day observed on May 3rd

World Press Freedom Day observed on May 3rd every year to celebrating press freedom and independence.

  • Theme for this year: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.”
  • United Nations General Secretary António Guterres emphasizes journalists’ role in informing the public about environmental and climate emergencies.
  • Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following UNESCO General Conference recommendations.
  • Marks the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a statement of free press principles.

Windhoek Declaration ?

The Windhoek Declaration is a statement of free press principles that was put together during a UNESCO seminar on “Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press” in Windhoek, Namibia, in 1991. It emphasizes the importance of press freedom, independence, and pluralism as essential components of democratic societies. The declaration calls for the establishment, maintenance, and fostering of an independent, pluralistic, and free press, both in print and broadcast media, in countries transitioning to democracy. It serves as a landmark document advocating for press freedom globally.

Q: What does World Press Freedom Day mark the anniversary of?

a) The establishment of the United Nations
b) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
c) The Windhoek Declaration
d) The Birth Anniversary of William Shakespeare

Ans : c) The Windhoek Declaration

Q: Windhoek Declaration of UNESCO is related to:

a) Education standards in developing countries
b) Protection of cultural heritage sites
c) Promotion of free press principles
d) Wildlife conservation efforts

Ans : c) Promotion of free press principles

97.76% of Rs 2000 Currency Notes Returned to Banking System : RBI

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has provided an update on the withdrawal of Rs 2000 denomination banknotes from circulation.

  1. As of April 30, 2024, the total value of Rs 2000 banknotes in circulation has significantly decreased from Rs 3.56 lakh crore on May 19, 2023, to Rs 7961 crore.
  2. This decrease indicates that 97.76% of the Rs 2000 banknotes in circulation as of May 19, 2023, have been returned.
  3. The withdrawal process was initially announced through a press release dated May 19, 2023, with periodic updates from the RBI.
  4. Initially, the facility for deposit and/or exchange of Rs 2000 banknotes was available at all bank branches until October 7, 2023.
  5. Subsequently, the exchange facility has been available at the 19 Issue Offices of the Reserve Bank (RBI Issue Offices) since May 19, 2023.
  6. Starting from October 9, 2023, these offices also started accepting Rs 2000 banknotes from individuals/entities for deposit into their bank accounts.
  7. Additionally, members of the public have been able to send Rs 2000 banknotes through India Post from any post office within the country to any RBI Issue Office for credit to their bank accounts.
  8. Despite the withdrawal process, Rs 2000 banknotes continue to be legal tender.

Question: Despite the withdrawal process, what is the status of Rs 2000 banknotes?

a) They are no longer legal tender
b) They can only be used for specific transactions
c) They are still legal tender
d) They can only be exchanged at specific locations

Ans : c) They are still legal tender

Jeremiah Manele elected as the new Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands

Jeremiah Manele was elected as the new Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands on May 2, 2024, succeeding incumbent Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

  1. Manele, a former foreign minister, won 31 votes against Opposition leader Matthew Wales’ 18 votes in the 50-seat parliament.
  2. The national election saw Sogavare’s government lose half of its seats, prompting intense lobbying from both government and opposition parties to win support from independents.
  3. The election outcome was closely watched by China, the U.S., and Australia due to its potential impact on regional security, especially considering Sogavare’s controversial security pact with China in 2022.
  4. Manele pledged to continue the Solomon Islands’ international policy of being “friends to all and enemies to none.”
  5. Manele’s OUR party won 15 seats, and formed a renewed coalition with two micro parties to gain a majority in the parliament.

Question : Who was elected as the new Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands on May 2, 2024?

a) Manasseh Sogavare
b) Jeremiah Manele
c) Matthew Wales
d) Anthony Albanese

Ans : b) Jeremiah Manele

ECI issues direction for handling and storage of Symbol Loading Units (SLU) in compliance of Supreme Court Order

The Election Commission of India (ECI) issues a new protocol on 1 May 2024 for handling and storing Symbol Loading Units (SLU) in compliance with a Supreme Court order.

  • Under the new guidelines, SLUs are sealed and stored after completing the symbol loading process in VVPATs (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails).
  • SLUs are to be stored along with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for at least 45 days following the declaration of election results.
  • The ECI directs Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to establish infrastructure to implement the revised protocols.
  • The protocols are applicable to all symbol loading processes in VVPATs from May 1, 2024, onwards.

Q: What is SLU in the context of elections?

a) Single Log Unit
b) Symbol Loading Unit
c) Security Locking Unit
d) Surveillance Logging Unit

Ans : b) Symbol Loading Unit

SMART : Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo system

DRDO conducted a successful flight test of the Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system on May 1, 2024,  from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.

  • SMART system aims to bolster the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities beyond conventional ranges.
  • The system comprises advanced sub-systems like a two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuator system, and precision inertial navigation system.
  • It carries an advanced light-weight torpedo as its payload with a parachute-based release mechanism.
  • The missile was launched from a ground mobile launcher, and various mechanisms like symmetric separation, ejection, and velocity control were validated during the test.

Q: What is the Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system designed to enhance?

a) Airborne surveillance
b) Anti-submarine warfare capabilities
c) Ground-based missile defense
d) Cybersecurity operations

Ans : b) Anti-submarine warfare capabilities

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