Current Affairs MCQs : 27 Aug 2024

Q.: Which organization developed India’s first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’?

A) ISRO
B) DRDO
C) Space Zone India
D) NASA

Answer
Answer: C) Space Zone India
RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group.

Q.: When and where will the 2024 Paralympic Games be held?

A) July 24 to August 9, 2024, in Tokyo
B) August 28 to September 8, 2024, in Paris
C) September 1 to September 15, 2024, in London
D) August 15 to August 25, 2024, in Los Angeles

Answer
Ans : B) August 28 to September 8, 2024, in Paris
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be held from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

Q.: How many new districts have been created in the Union Territory of Ladakh by the Central Government?

A) 3
B) 4
C) 5
D) 6

Answer
Answer: C) 5
The Central government announced the formation of five new districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh: Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang. At present, Ladakh has two districts; Leh and Kargil.

Q.: Krishna Janmashtami is observed on which day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada?

A) First day (Pratipada)
B) Fifth day (Panchami)
C) Eighth day (Ashtami)
D) Fifteenth day (Amavasya)

Answer
Ans : C) Eighth day (Ashtami)
Krishna Janmashtami is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.

Janmashtami celebrated across the country

Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami or Janmashtami, is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. This festival is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September. This year Krishna Janmashtami was celebrated on 26 August across the country.

Significance and History

Krishna Janmashtami marks the birth of Krishna, who is considered a divine hero, teacher, and philosopher in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna was born in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva. His birth is celebrated with great fervor, especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, where he spent his childhood.

Q.: Krishna Janmashtami is observed on which day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada?

A) First day (Pratipada)
B) Fifth day (Panchami)
C) Eighth day (Ashtami)
D) Fifteenth day (Amavasya)

Ans : C) Eighth day (Ashtami)
Krishna Janmashtami is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.

Central government announced the formation of five new districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh

The Central government on 26 August 2024, announced the formation of five new districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh: Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang. Ladakh is a very large Union Territory in terms of area. At present, Ladakh has two districts; Leh and Kargil. It is one of the least populated areas of India.

Background of Article 370: The announcement follows the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, which ended the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and split the region into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Q.: How many new districts have been created in the Union Territory of Ladakh by the Central Government?

A) 3
B) 4
C) 5
D) 6

Answer: C) 5
The Central government announced the formation of five new districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh: Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang. At present, Ladakh has two districts; Leh and Kargil.

Paris 2024 Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be held from August 28 to September 8, 2024. This marks the first time France will host the Summer Paralympics. The event will feature around 4,400 athletes competing in 549 medal events across 22 sports.

This time, India is sending its largest contingent ever in the history of games, with 84 athletes.

The Games aim to promote inclusivity and showcase the incredible talents of para-athletes from around the world.

Q.: When and where will the 2024 Paralympic Games be held?

A) July 24 to August 9, 2024, in Tokyo
B) August 28 to September 8, 2024, in Paris
C) September 1 to September 15, 2024, in London
D) August 15 to August 25, 2024, in Los Angeles

Ans : B) August 28 to September 8, 2024, in Paris
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be held from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’

RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group. RHUMI-1 carried 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites to collect data on global warming and climate change.

Technology: RHUMI-1 is equipped with a generic-fuel hybrid motor and an electrically triggered parachute deployer. It is 100% pyrotechnic-free and contains no TNT. The rocket uses a combination of liquid and solid fuel propellant systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Leadership: The mission was led by Anand Megalingam, founder of Space Zone, with mentorship from Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre.

Space Zone India: SZI is an aero-technology company based in Chennai that provides low-cost, long-term space industry solutions and offers training in Aerodynamics, Satellite, Drone, and Rocket Technology.

Education Initiatives: SZI partners with private and government institutions to raise awareness about careers in the space industry and provides hands-on training. In 2023, SZI led the ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch’ project, engaging over 2,500 students in the design and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle capable of carrying 150 PICO satellites.

Q.: Which organization developed India’s first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’?

A) ISRO
B) DRDO
C) Space Zone India
D) NASA

Answer: C) Space Zone India
RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group.

Current Affairs MCQs : 26 Aug 2024

Q.: Who is the founder and CEO of Telegram?

A) Mark Zuckerberg
B) Jack Dorsey
C) Pavel Durov
D) Sundar Pichai

Answer
Ans : C) Pavel Durov
Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging application Telegram, was recently arrested by French police at Le Bourget Airport.

Q.: What is the title given to the women earning more than one lakh rupees per year who were felicitated by the Prime Minister?

a) Kisan Didis
b) Lakhpati Didis
c) Udyami Didis
d) Mahila Shakti Didis

Answer
Answer: b) Lakhpati Didis
On 25 Aug 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed certificates to 11 lakh new “Lakhpati Didis” in Jalgaon, Maharashtra.

Q.: Which astronauts, stuck on the ISS due to a fault in the Boeing spacecraft, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX?

a) Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
c) Chris Hadfield and Peggy Whitson
d) Mark Kelly and Scott Kelly

Answer
Answer: b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

Q.: Who won the U-15 girls’ singles title at the Asia Under-17 & Under-15 junior badminton championships in Chengdu, China in 2024?

a) Tasnim Mir
b) Samiya Imad Farooqui
c) Tanvi Patri
d) Nguyen Thi Thu Huygen

Answer
Answer: c) Tanvi Patri
Tanvi Patri, won the U-15 girls’ singles title at the Asia Under-17 & Under-15 junior badminton championships in Chengdu, China on 25 Aug 2024.

Telegram Founder and CEO Pavel Durov arrested at Le Bourget Airport, by French Police

Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging application Telegram, was recently arrested by French police at Le Bourget Airport, located north of Paris. Durov, who is 39 years old, was detained after his private jet landed at the airport.

The arrest was made under a warrant related to various offences connected to Telegram. The investigation focuses on allegations that Telegram has not taken sufficient steps to curb criminal activities on its platform, including drug trafficking, child sexual content, and fraud. Telegram has previously denied these allegations, asserting that its moderation practices are within industry standards.

Durov, who holds dual citizenship in the United Arab Emirates and France, founded Telegram in 2013. The app is known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security, which has made it popular worldwide, especially in Russia, Ukraine, and former Soviet Union states. 

Q.: Who is the founder and CEO of Telegram?

A) Mark Zuckerberg
B) Jack Dorsey
C) Pavel Durov
D) Sundar Pichai

Ans : C) Pavel Durov
Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging application Telegram, was recently arrested by French police at Le Bourget Airport.

PM Modi Distributed Certificates to 11 Lakh New ‘Lakhpati Didis’ at Jalgaon, Maharashtra

On 25 Aug 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed certificates to 11 lakh new “Lakhpati Didis” in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. The 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis achieved this status during the third term of the NDA Government. These women, now over one crore in number across India, earn more than one lakh rupees per year.

A revolving fund called the Community Investment Fund of 2,500 crore rupees was released, benefiting 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs). A bank loan of 5,000 crore rupees was also released, benefiting 25.8 lakh members of 2.35 lakh SHGs.

Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadanvis and Ajit Pawar, and others attended the event. The program was connected virtually to about 30,000 locations in 34 states and Union Territories, including state capitals and district headquarters.

Q.: What is the title given to the women earning more than one lakh rupees per year who were felicitated by the Prime Minister?

a) Kisan Didis
b) Lakhpati Didis
c) Udyami Didis
d) Mahila Shakti Didis

Answer: b) Lakhpati Didis
On 25 Aug 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed certificates to 11 lakh new “Lakhpati Didis” in Jalgaon, Maharashtra.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

  • Initially, their mission was planned for eight days, but they have been in orbit for around eight months due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
  • The astronauts are aboard the International Space Station (ISS) longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances, making the rescue mission critical.
  • SpaceX will send a specially modified Crew Dragon spacecraft to the ISS equipped with advanced life support systems and additional provisions for their safe return.

Q.: Which astronauts, stuck on the ISS due to a fault in the Boeing spacecraft, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX?

a) Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
c) Chris Hadfield and Peggy Whitson
d) Mark Kelly and Scott Kelly

Answer: b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

Tanvi Patri clinches girls’ U-15 Singles title at Asia Championships Championships

Tanvi Patri, India’s top junior badminton player, won the U-15 girls’ singles title at the Asia Under-17 & Under-15 junior championships in Chengdu, China on 25 Aug 2024.

  • Tanvi defeated Vietnam’s second seed, Nguyen Thi Thu Huygen, 22-20, 21-11 in the final.
  • The 13-year-old won the title without dropping a single game and defeated Thailand’s sixth seed, Kungkaew Kakanik, in the semifinals with a score of 21-19, 21-10.
  • In the U-17 boys’ singles, Gnana Dattu TT lost to Indonesia’s Radithya Bayu Wardhana, 9-21, 21-13, 21-13, and earned a bronze medal.
  • India previously won gold in U-15 boys’ singles and silver in U-17 girls’ singles.
  • Notable past winners in the U-15 girls’ singles category include Samiya Imad Farooqui (2017) and Tasnim Mir (2019).

Q.: Who won the U-15 girls’ singles title at the Asia Under-17 & Under-15 junior badminton championships in Chengdu, China in 2024?

a) Tasnim Mir
b) Samiya Imad Farooqui
c) Tanvi Patri
d) Nguyen Thi Thu Huygen

Answer: c) Tanvi Patri
Tanvi Patri, won the U-15 girls’ singles title at the Asia Under-17 & Under-15 junior badminton championships in Chengdu, China on 25 Aug 2024.

Current Affairs MCQs : 25 Aug 2024

Q.: What does UPS stand for in reference to benefits for government employees?

(a) Unified Payment System
(b) Unified Pension Scheme
(c) Universal Pension Service
(d) Union Payment Scheme

Answer
Answer: (b) Unified Pension Scheme
The Union Cabinet, on 24 August 2024 approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for the central government employees.

Q.: What is the assured family pension percentage of the employee’s pension after their demise?

(a) 50%
(b) 55%
(c) 60%
(d) 65%

Answer
Answer: (c) 60%
Assured Pension under UPS: 50% of average basic pay for the last 12 months prior to retirement for a minimum service of 25 years

Q.: Which country won the first-ever team title in women’s wrestling at the Under-17 World Wrestling Championship 2024?

(a) Japan
(b) Kazakhstan
(c) India
(d) USA

Answer
Answer: (c) India
Indian Women’s Team won its first-ever team title with 185 points, ahead of Japan (146 points) and Kazakhstan (79 points) at Under-17 World Wrestling Championship in Amman, Jordan, (Aug 19-25, 2024).

Indian women won first-ever team title at U17 Wrestling World Championships

Indian Women’s Team won its first-ever team title with 185 points, ahead of Japan (146 points) and Kazakhstan (79 points) at Under-17 World Wrestling Championship in Amman, Jordan, (Aug 19-25, 2024).

Indian women team win eight medals, including five gold, one silver and three bronze. Aditi Kumari (43kg), Neha Sangwan (57kg), Pulkit (65kg), Mansi Lather (73kg) and Kajal(69kg) had won Gold in their respective categories.

Total Medals for India: India won a total of 10 medals in the championship, including two bronze in Greco-Roman wrestling.

Q.: Which country won the first-ever team title in women’s wrestling at the Under-17 World Wrestling Championship 2024?

(a) Japan
(b) Kazakhstan
(c) India
(d) USA

Answer: (c) India
Indian Women’s Team won its first-ever team title with 185 points, ahead of Japan (146 points) and Kazakhstan (79 points) at Under-17 World Wrestling Championship in Amman, Jordan, (Aug 19-25, 2024).

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for central government employees

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on 24 August 2024 approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for the central government employees.

The features of UPS are:

  1. Assured Pension: 50% of average basic pay for the last 12 months prior to retirement for a minimum service of 25 years (proportionate for service less than 25 years, minimum 10 years).
  2. Assured Family Pension: 60% of the pension immediately after the employee’s demise.
  3. Assured Minimum Pension: ₹10,000 per month after 10 years of service.
  4. Inflation Indexation: Applied to pension, family pension, and minimum pension.
  5. Dearness Relief: Based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (AICPI-IW).
  6. Lump Sum Payment: At retirement, 1/10th of monthly emoluments for every completed six months of service, in addition to gratuity.
  7. Beneficiaries: 23 lakh central government employees.
  8. Effective Date: From 1st April 2025.

Q.: What does UPS stand for in reference to benefits for government employees?

(a) Unified Payment System
(b) Unified Pension Scheme
(c) Universal Pension Service
(d) Union Payment Scheme

Answer: (b) Unified Pension Scheme
The Union Cabinet, on 24 August 2024 approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for the central government employees.

Q.: What is the assured family pension percentage of the employee’s pension after their demise?

(a) 50%
(b) 55%
(c) 60%
(d) 65%

Answer: (c) 60%
Assured Pension under UPS: 50% of average basic pay for the last 12 months prior to retirement for a minimum service of 25 years

Current Affairs MCQs : 24 Aug 2024

Q.: Where did Neeraj Chopra achieve his season-best throw of 89.49 metres, finishing second in the men’s javelin throw event in August 2024?

a) Brussels Diamond League
b) Paris Olympics
c) Lausanne Diamond League
d) Tokyo Diamond League

Answer
Answer: c) Lausanne Diamond League

Q.: Where was the 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI, which concluded on August 25, 2024, held?

a) Pune, India
b) Colombo, Sri Lanka
c) Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka
d) New Delhi, India

Answer
Answer: c) Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka
The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI took place at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. MITRA SHAKTI is an annual event, alternating between India and Sri Lanka, with the 14-day exercise concluding on August 25, 2024.

Q.: Who assumed the charge as the new Union Home Secretary on 23 August 2024?

a) Ajay Kumar Bhalla
b) Rajiv Gauba
c) Govind Mohan
d) P.K. Mishra

Answer
Answer: c) Govind Mohan

Q.: Who was the President of Ukraine during PM Modi’s visit in August 2024?

a) Viktor Yanukovych
b) Petro Poroshenko
c) Volodymyr Zelensky
d) Oleksii Reznikov

Answer
Answer: c) Volodymyr Zelensky
On 23 August 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv. Prime Minister Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts.

PM Modi Visit to Kyiv: A Diplomatic Push for Peace Talks Amid Ukraine-Russia Conflict

On 23 August 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv, marking the first visit by an Indian leader to Ukraine since its independence in 1991.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts, with Modi emphasizing India’s commitment to peaceful resolution through dialogue. The visit is part of Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts to involve non-Western nations in potential settlement talks with Russia.

Q.: Who was the President of Ukraine during PM Modi’s visit in August 2024?

a) Viktor Yanukovych
b) Petro Poroshenko
c) Volodymyr Zelensky
d) Oleksii Reznikov

Answer: c) Volodymyr Zelensky
On 23 August 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv. Prime Minister Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts.

Govind Mohan, IAS assumed the charge of the new Union Home Secretary

Govind Mohan, IAS assumed the charge of the new Union Home Secretary on 23 August 2024. He has succeeded Ajay Kumar Bhalla whose tenure ended on 22 August 2024. A 1989 batch IAS Officer, Mr. Mohan was earlier holding charge of Secretary in the Culture Ministry.  

Q.: Who assumed the charge as the new Union Home Secretary on 23 August 2024?

a) Ajay Kumar Bhalla
b) Rajiv Gauba
c) Govind Mohan
d) P.K. Mishra

Answer: c) Govind Mohan

India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI concluding at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka.

The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI took place at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. MITRA SHAKTI is an annual event, alternating between India and Sri Lanka, with the 14-day exercise concluding on August 25, 2024.

High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, and Sri Lanka’s State Minister of Defence, Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, witnessed the final exercise.

The Indian contingent, comprising 106 personnel from the Rajputana Rifles and other services, trained alongside the Sri Lankan Gajaba Regiment. The exercise, focused on tactical drills in sub-conventional scenarios, aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen ties between the two forces.

Q.: Where was the 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI, which concluded on August 25, 2024, held?

a) Pune, India
b) Colombo, Sri Lanka
c) Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka
d) New Delhi, India

Answer: c) Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka
The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI took place at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. MITRA SHAKTI is an annual event, alternating between India and Sri Lanka, with the 14-day exercise concluding on August 25, 2024.

Neeraj Chopra finished second in the men’s javelin throw at the Lausanne Diamond League 2024

Neeraj Chopra finished second in the men’s javelin throw at the Lausanne Diamond League 2024 in Switzerland on 23 Aug 2024. Neeraj Chopra achieved a season-best throw of 89.49 metres.

Winner: Anderson Peters from Grenada won the event with a throw of 90.61 metres in his final attempt.

Other Participants:

  • Julian Weber (Germany) finished third with a throw of 87.08 metres.
  • Jakub Vadlejch (world no. 1) finished seventh with 82.03 metres.
  • Roderick Genki Dean (Japan) finished fifth with a season-best of 83.19 metres.

Q.: Where did Neeraj Chopra achieve his season-best throw of 89.49 metres, finishing second in the men’s javelin throw event in August 2024?

a) Brussels Diamond League
b) Paris Olympics
c) Lausanne Diamond League
d) Tokyo Diamond League

Answer: c) Lausanne Diamond League

Current Affairs MCQs : 23 Aug 2024

Q.: When is National Space Day celebrated in India?

A) July 20
B) August 23
C) September 15
D) October 4

Answer
Ans : B) August 23
National Space Day is celebrated on August 23 to commemorate the remarkable achievements in space exploration, particularly highlighting India’s advancements. 

Q.: What significant event led to the declaration of National Space Day?

A) Launch of Mangalyaan
B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
C) Launch of Gaganyaan
D) Discovery of water on Mars

Answer
Ans : B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
This day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the Moon’s southern polar region on August 23, 2023.

Q.: Which scientist received the Vigyan Ratna Award 2024?

a) Dr. Anandharamakrishnan
b) Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan
c) Dr. Avesh Kumar Tyagi
d) Prof. Jayant Bhalchandra Udgaonkar

Answer
Answer: b) Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan
President Droupadi Murmu conferred Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024 on 22 August 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan received the Vigyan Ratna award.

Q. What does SLCR stand for in the context of the India-Denmark collaboration project in Varanasi?

a) Sustainable Laboratory on Clean Rivers
b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers
c) Scientific Lab for Clean Rivers
d) Strategic Laboratory on Clean Rivers

Answer
Answer: b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers

Q. The SLCR project in Varanasi focuses on rejuvenating which river?

a) Ganga
b) Yamuna
c) Varuna
d) Godavari

Answer
Answer: c) Varuna

Q. Which countries are involved in the Green Strategic Partnership that led to the creation of the SLCR?

a) India and Germany
b) India and Denmark
c) India and Japan
d) India and France

Answer
Answer: b) India and Denmark

Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) Project in Varanasi : India – Denmark Collaboration for Clean Rivers

On 22 August 2024, the Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark led to the creation of the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) in Varanasi.

  • SLCR is a collaboration between the Government of India, IIT-BHU, and the Government of Denmark focused on rejuvenating the Varuna River using sustainable methods.
  • The initiative involves a hybrid lab at IIT-BHU and a living lab at the Varuna River for real-world testing.
  • Key bodies, including the Indo-Danish Joint Steering Committee and Multi-Stakeholder Working Group, provide guidance and oversight.
  • Initial funding includes Rs. 16.80 crore from the Ministry of Jal Shakti and Rs. 5 crore from Denmark.
  • Four projects have been approved, focusing on water management, pollutant analysis, heritage preservation, and river-aquifer dynamics.
  • The SLCR aims to integrate academic, governmental, and international efforts for small river rejuvenation and sustainable solutions.

1. What does SLCR stand for in the context of the India-Denmark collaboration project in Varanasi?

a) Sustainable Laboratory on Clean Rivers
b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers
c) Scientific Lab for Clean Rivers
d) Strategic Laboratory on Clean Rivers

Answer: b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers

2. The SLCR project in Varanasi focuses on rejuvenating which river?

a) Ganga
b) Yamuna
c) Varuna
d) Godavari

Answer: c) Varuna

3. Which countries are involved in the Green Strategic Partnership that led to the creation of the SLCR?

a) India and Germany
b) India and Denmark
c) India and Japan
d) India and France

Answer: b) India and Denmark

President Droupadi Murmu confers Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar at Rashtrapati Bhavan

President Droupadi Murmu conferred Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024 to distinguished scientists on 22 August 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Vigyan Ratna Award 2024: Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan received the Vigyan Ratna award.

Vigyan Shri Awards:

  • Dr. Anandharamakrishnan received the Vigyan Shri award in Agricultural Science.
  • Dr. Avesh Kumar Tyagi from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, received the Vigyan Shri award in Atomic Energy.
  • Prof. Jayant Bhalchandra Udgaonkar from IISER, Pune, was awarded the Vigyan Shri award in Biological Sciences.

Q.: Which scientist received the Vigyan Ratna Award 2024?

a) Dr. Anandharamakrishnan
b) Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan
c) Dr. Avesh Kumar Tyagi
d) Prof. Jayant Bhalchandra Udgaonkar

Answer: b) Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan
President Droupadi Murmu conferred Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024 on 22 August 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prof. Govindarajan Padmanabhan received the Vigyan Ratna award.

National Space Day : 23 August

National Space Day is celebrated on August 23 to commemorate the remarkable achievements in space exploration, particularly highlighting India’s advancements. This day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the Moon’s southern polar region on August 23, 2023. The landing site is now known as Shiv Shakti Point.

Significance of National Space Day

  • Celebration of Achievements: It marks India’s status as the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to reach its southern polar region.
  • Inspiration for Future Generations: The day aims to inspire young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
  • Public Awareness: It enhances public awareness about the importance and benefits of space exploration.

Q.: When is National Space Day celebrated in India?

A) July 20
B) August 23
C) September 15
D) October 4

Ans : B) August 23
National Space Day is celebrated on August 23 to commemorate the remarkable achievements in space exploration, particularly highlighting India’s advancements. 

Q.: What significant event led to the declaration of National Space Day?

A) Launch of Mangalyaan
B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
C) Launch of Gaganyaan
D) Discovery of water on Mars

Ans : B) Successful landing of Chandrayaan-3
This day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the Moon’s southern polar region on August 23, 2023.

Current Affairs MCQs : 22 Aug 2024

Q.: Which countries did Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit in August 2024?

a) Poland and Germany
b) Ukraine and Russia
c) Poland and Ukraine
d) France and Ukraine

Answer
Answer: c) Poland and Ukraine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Warsaw on 21 August 2024 as part of a two-nation visit to Poland and Ukraine.

Q.: What is the capital of Poland?

a) Kraków
b) Gdańsk
c) Warsaw
d) Wrocław

Answer
Answer: c) Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is famous in history for its role in World War II.

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

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

Answer
Answer: b) Shaktikanta Das

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Visit to Poland and Ukraine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Warsaw on 21 August 2024 as part of a two-nation visit to Poland and Ukraine.

Modi received a warm welcome at the Warsaw Military Airport and laid wreaths at the Jam Saheb Nawanagar Memorial, Monte Cassino monument, and the Kolhapur Memorial in Poland.

The visit marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Poland and is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years. Modi will meet with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda during his two-day official visit.

Modi’s visit to Ukraine is at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and is the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister since bilateral relations began in 1992.

Modi expressed hope for the return of peace and stability in Ukraine and aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation with a focus on a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.

Q.: Which countries did Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit in August 2024?

a) Poland and Germany
b) Ukraine and Russia
c) Poland and Ukraine
d) France and Ukraine

Answer: c) Poland and Ukraine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Warsaw on 21 August 2024 as part of a two-nation visit to Poland and Ukraine.

Q.: What is the capital of Poland?

a) Kraków
b) Gdańsk
c) Warsaw
d) Wrocław

Answer: c) Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is famous in history for its role in World War II.

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

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

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

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

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

Answer: b) Shaktikanta Das

Current Affairs MCQs : 21 Aug 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Current Affairs MCQs : 20 Aug 2024

Q.: When is World Sanskrit Day typically observed?

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

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

Q.: What are the initial symptoms of Mpox?

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

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

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

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

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