Part 2: Top and Important Current Affairs January 2024

 Part 2: Top and Important Current Affairs January 2024

Question 51: Which company is the first in India to receive ISCC-Plus certification?

A) Tata Group  

B) Reliance Industries  

C) Adani Enterprises  

D) Mahindra Group  

Answer: B) Reliance Industries

Explanation: Reliance Industries has become the first company in India to receive ISCC-Plus certification for its Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat. The certification ensures transparency and traceability of sustainable feedstocks, tracking bio-based, circular, or renewable content throughout the value chain.

Question 52: Which Indian state recently launched 200 electric buses, to achieve a 100% green public transportation system by 2025?

A) Assam  

B) Gujarat  

C) Maharashtra  

D) Kerala  

Answer: A) Assam

Explanation: Assam Chief Minister Sarma inaugurated 200 electric buses in Guwahati as part of the state's commitment to achieving a pollution-free and green public transportation system by 2025.

Question 53: In a recent announcement, which state has reduced the age limit for old-age pensions from 60 to 50, with a focus on tribals and Dalits?

A) Jharkhand  

B) Rajasthan  

C) Uttar Pradesh  

D) Bihar  

Answer: A) Jharkhand

Explanation: Chief Minister Hemant Soren of Jharkhand has reduced the age limit for old-age pensions from 60 to 50, with a specific focus on tribals and Dalits, aiming to enhance financial support for marginalized communities in the state.

Question 54: What is the name of Binny Bansal's latest startup in the e-commerce space?

A) Binny's Bazaar  

B) OppDoor  

C) Snapdeal 2.0  

D) Flipkart Plus  

Answer: B) OppDoor

Explanation: Binny Bansal, co-founder of Flipkart, has re-entered the e-commerce arena with his latest startup, OppDoor, which focuses on providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions for the global expansion of e-commerce firms.

Question 55: Which digital payments app recently secured a payment aggregator (PA) license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for e-commerce transactions?

A) Paytm  

B) PhonePe  

C) Google Pay  

D) Tata Pay  

Answer: D) Tata Pay

Explanation: Tata Pay, the digital payments app under Tata Digital, has secured a payment aggregator (PA) license from the RBI. This significant development places Tata Pay among industry leaders for efficiently handling e-commerce transactions within its subsidiary entities.

Question 56: Who has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kia India?

A) Tae Jin Park  

B) Gwanggu Lee  

C) Jin Woo Kim  

D) Ji Hoon Sohn  

Answer: B) Gwanggu Lee

Explanation: Gwanggu Lee has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kia India, succeeding Tae Jin Park. The transition signifies a significant leadership change for the company.

Question 57: On which date is International Mind-Body Wellness Day observed annually?

A) January 1  

B) January 3  

C) February 2  

D) March 8  

Answer: B) January 3

Explanation: International Mind-Body Wellness Day is observed globally on January 3 each year, dedicated to promoting the harmonious coexistence of physical and mental health.

Question 58: Which of the following organizations celebrated its 66th Foundation Day on January 1, 2024?

A) ISRO  

B) DRDO  

C) BARC  

D) CSIR  

Answer: B) DRDO

Explanation: India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) commemorated its 66th Foundation Day on January 1, 2024.

Question 59: Who has been recently appointed as the new Managing Director of Nivea India?

A) Geetika Mehta  

B) Rahul Sharma  

C) Deepak Verma  

D) Anjali Kapoor  

Answer: A) Geetika Mehta

Explanation: Geetika Mehta has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Nivea India, leveraging her extensive experience in the FMCG sector.

Question 60: Which Indian state is proposing to integrate its Chiranjeevi health insurance scheme with Ayushman Bharat?

A) Punjab  

B) Rajasthan  

C) Maharashtra  

D) Gujarat  

Answer: B) Rajasthan

Explanation: The Rajasthan government is seeking approval to integrate its health insurance scheme, Chiranjeevi, with Ayushman Bharat, proposing the creation of a unified initiative named the Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme.

Question 61: Which mission is the focus of the €100 million loan discussions between France's AFD and Germany's KfW Bank with India?

A) AMRUT  

B) Smart Cities Mission  

C) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan  

D) Make in India  

Answer: A) AMRUT

Explanation: France's AFD and Germany's KfW Bank with India centre around a €100 million loan for urban infrastructure, specifically targeting the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0.

Question 62: Where did the National Street Food Festival 2023 conclude, marking the first-ever zero-waste street food festival in India? 

A) New Delhi  

B) Mumbai  

C) Kolkata  

D) Chennai  

Answer: A) New Delhi

Explanation: The National Street Food Festival 2023 concluded at JLN Stadium in New Delhi, marking the first-ever zero-waste street food festival in India. The festival aimed to showcase street foods from across the country and was successfully hosted by the National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI).

Question 63: What is the name of the community cat sterilization centre launched by Murty Trust in collaboration with Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA)?

A) MeowMed  

B) Stray Care  

C) Paws Haven  

D) Maitri  

Answer: D) Maitri

Explanation: The collaboration between Murty Trust and CUPA resulted in the launch of 'Maitri,' a cutting-edge community cat sterilization centre in Bangalore, aimed at advancing animal welfare.

Question 64: Which country is set to export 10,000 MW of power to India in the next 10 years, solidifying a long-term energy partnership?

Answer: Nepal

Explanation: India and Nepal have strengthened their energy partnership, with Nepal exporting 10,000 MW of power to India over the next decade, enhancing bilateral connectivity and cooperation in the energy sector.

Question 65: Which Indian state has become the first to map all 784 accident-prone sites using the Mappls App for road safety?  

Answer: Punjab

Explanation: Punjab has achieved a significant milestone in road safety by becoming the first state in India to meticulously map all 784 accident black spots using the Mappls App, a state-of-the-art navigation system developed by MapMyIndia, showcasing its commitment to enhancing road safety.

Question 66: Which company won the CII National Award for Excellence in Water Management and has set a goal to become 500% water-positive by 2025?

Answer: Hero MotoCorp

Explanation: Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, received the CII

 National Award for Excellence in Water Management and aims to achieve a remarkable goal of becoming 500% water-positive by 2025, showcasing its commitment to water conservation.

Question 67: Who has recently been appointed as the new President of the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA)?

Answer: Shashi Singh

Explanation: Shashi Singh has been elected as the new President of the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA), succeeding Ramesh Kejriwal. This leadership change signifies a new era for AIRIA, with Singh poised to advance the association’s mission and goals.

Question 68: In which Indian state was a 10th-century inscription found, written in both Kannada and Sanskrit?

Answer: Goa

Explanation: The 10th-century inscription, written in Kannada and Sanskrit, was discovered in the Mahadeva temple at Cacoda in southern Goa, providing valuable insights into the region's history during the Kadamba period.

Question 69: In which state did Adani Group collaborate for Data Centre and Aerospace Park investment?  

Answer: Telangana

Explanation: Adani Group, led by CEO Karan Adani, collaborated with Telangana's CM Reddy for Data Centre and Aerospace Park investment, receiving support from the state government.

Question 70: Which Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), established under the Ministry of Power, recently signed an MoU with Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) for diverse infrastructure projects over the next 5 years?

Answer: REC Limited (Rural Electrification Corporation)

Explanation: REC Limited (Rural Electrification Corporation), a Maharatna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, has collaborated with RVNL, pledging Rs. 35,000 Crores for various infrastructure projects over the next 5 years, reflecting their commitment to sectoral development.

Question 71: Who has been appointed as the Managing Director of the National Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL)?

Answer: P Santhosh  

Explanation: P Santhosh, Chief General Manager at Canara Bank, has been appointed as the Managing Director of National Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL), succeeding Natarajan Sundar, marking an unexpected change in leadership at the government-promoted asset reconstruction organization.

Question 72: Who inaugurated the Tur Dal Procurement Portal, allowing farmers to register and sell their produce at MSP or market rates to NAFED and NCCF?

Answer: Amit Shah

Explanation: The Tur Dal Procurement Portal was inaugurated by Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, facilitating farmers to sell their produce at MSP or market rates to NAFED and NCCF, marking a significant move towards agricultural reform.  

Question 73: Who has been honoured with the 2023 Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar for his significant contributions to Indian languages?

Answer: Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay

Explanation: Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay, a celebrated Bengali writer, has been honoured with the 2023 Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar for his remarkable contributions across various genres, including travelogues and children's fiction. The prestigious award includes a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, a silver medal, and a citation, highlighting his significant impact on Indian literature.

Question 74: What is the name of the comprehensive scheme launched under the Ministry of Earth Sciences?

Answer: PRITHVI (PRITHvi VIgyan)

Explanation: The PRITHVI (PRITHvi VIgyan) scheme is a comprehensive initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, with a substantial budget of Rs. 4,797 crore, marking a new era in the study and understanding of Earth sciences in India.

Question 75: Which Indian state has launched the Nation's first-ever Report and Meeting Management Portal? 

Answer: Himachal Pradesh

Explanation: The groundbreaking Report and Meeting Management Portals, designed to streamline communication, decision-making, and data management within the government, were first launched in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

Question 76: In collaboration with NRSC under ISRO, which organization has signed a 3-year MoU to develop and report a "Green Cover Index" for the National Highways network in alignment with the Green Highways Policy?

Answer: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)

Explanation: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in collaboration with NRSC (National Remote Sensing Centre) under ISRO, has signed a 3-year MoU to develop and report a "Green Cover Index" for the extensive National Highways network, emphasizing the greening of Highway Corridors as per the Green Highways Policy initiated in 2015.

Question 77: What government department is responsible for launching the PRERANA program?

Answer: Ministry of Education

Explanation: The PRERANA program is launched by the Ministry of Education to empower students with leadership qualities and provide a unique learning experience.

Question 78: In which Indian state is Adidas establishing its first and only Global Capacity Centre (GCC) in Asia outside of China?

Answer: Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Adidas is strategically setting up its first and only Global Capacity Centre (GCC) in Asia outside of China, and the chosen location is Tamil Nadu. This move reflects the trend of multinational corporations selecting India, specifically Tamil Nadu, as a prime destination for establishing their GCCs.

Question 79: Which Indian state's Wancho Wooden Craft recently received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag?

Answer: Arunachal Pradesh

Explanation: Wancho Wooden Craft from Arunachal Pradesh, an integral part of the Wancho tribes' culture, recently received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This ethnic art form is traditionally used for home decoration and gifting.

Question 80: What is the name of the robotic system introduced by Stanford University to enhance bimanual mobile manipulation capabilities?  

Answer: Mobile ALOHA

Explanation: Stanford University has revealed Mobile ALOHA, a robotic system that builds on Google DeepMind's ALOHA, focusing on mobility and dexterity to elevate bimanual mobile manipulation capabilities.

Question 81: Who has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL)?

Answer: Sanjiv Aggarwal

Explanation: Sanjiv Aggarwal, formerly a partner at Actis, a UK-based private equity firm, has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL).

Question 82: By which year does the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and USAID aim to assist Indian Railways in achieving 'net zero carbon emission'?

Answer: 2030

Explanation: The approved MoU between India and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) aims to assist Indian Railways in achieving 'net zero carbon emission' by the ambitious target year of 2030, as a significant step toward sustainable development.

Question 83: In which Indian state is the initiative 'Gunotsav 2024' taking place to assess the performance of approximately 40 lakh students across government schools?

Answer: Assam

Explanation: The Assam government is initiating the fifth edition of 'Gunotsav 2024,' a state-wide assessment to evaluate around 40 lakh students in government schools, aiming to enhance education quality and improve learning outcomes in the state.

Question 84: Who has become the first

 woman Director General of Police (DGP) in Maharashtra?

Answer: Rashmi Shukla

Explanation: Rashmi Shukla, a distinguished 1988 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been appointed as the Director General of Police (DGP) in Maharashtra, marking a groundbreaking achievement as the first woman to hold this prestigious position in the state.

Question 85: On which date is the World Day of War Orphans observed?  

Answer: January 6

Explanation: The World Day of War Orphans is observed on January 6, 2024, dedicated to highlighting the struggles and needs of children who are the most vulnerable victims of war.

Question 86: Which country declares January 5 as National Bird Day to raise awareness about the significance of birds in the ecosystem?

Answer: United States of America

Explanation: The United States of America declares January 5 as National Bird Day to emphasize the importance of birds in the ecosystem and advocate for their complete freedom, discouraging captivity for monetary profit or human entertainment.

Question 87: Who has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)?

Answer: Vikas Sheel

Explanation: Mr. Vikas Sheel, a seasoned bureaucrat, has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila, reflecting India's commitment to international development.

Question 88: In which city did the inauguration of the 58th DGsP/IGsP Conference 2023 take place?  

Answer: Jaipur

Explanation: The 58th DGsP/IGsP Conference 2023 was inaugurated at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur, with the participation of law enforcement officers in both physical and virtual modes.

Question 89: In which Indian state did NHPC Limited sign an MoU for a Rs 4,000 crore investment in the 750 MW Kuppa Pumped Hydro Storage Project?

Answer: Gujarat

Explanation: NHPC Limited has signed an MoU with Gujarat Power Corporation Limited for a Rs 4,000 crore investment in the 750 MW Kuppa Pumped Hydro Storage Project located at Chhota Udaipur, Gujarat, aligning with national goals for renewable energy and the "Net Zero" target.

Question 90: Where does the Indian government plan to establish 'Bharat Park,' a dedicated trade zone for showcasing and storing Indian goods for a global audience?

Answer: UAE  

Explanation: The Indian government aims to set up 'Bharat Park,' a trade zone in the UAE, with showrooms and warehouses to display and store Indian-made goods, facilitating international transactions and showcasing products globally.

Question 91: What significant milestone have researchers from IIT Madras and Mandi achieved in the field of biotechnology?

Answer: Production of the anti-cancer drug

Explanation: Researchers from IIT Madras and Mandi have achieved a significant milestone by metabolically engineering plant cells to boost the production of the anti-cancer drug camptothecin (CPT). 

Question 92: With which organization did Indian Railways renew its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for green initiatives to reduce energy and water use and greenhouse gas emissions?

Answer: Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)  

Explanation: Indian Railways renewed its MoU with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to collaborate on green initiatives, focusing on reducing energy and water consumption along with lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Question 93: Who has been appointed as the CEO of the Indian Olympic Association? 

Answer: Raghuram Iyer

Explanation: The Indian Olympic Association has appointed Raghuram Iyer as its new CEO, a seasoned professional chosen through a meticulous selection process.

Question 94: Who has been appointed as the Executive Director (ED) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a tenure of three years?

Answer: G Ram Mohan Rao

Explanation: G Ram Mohan Rao has been appointed as the Executive Director (ED) of SEBI for a term of three years, where he will be responsible for overseeing the investigation and internal inspection departments, strengthening SEBI's commitment to market integrity.

Question 95: Under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, which country recently exchanged lists with India through diplomatic channels?

Answer: Pakistan

Explanation: India and Pakistan exchanged lists of their respective nuclear installations and facilities in compliance with the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between the two countries.

Question 96: Which country chartered the MV Vasiliy Golovnin for the 43rd Scientific Expedition to Antarctica?  

Answer: India

Explanation: India chartered the MV Vasiliy Golovnin for the 43rd Scientific Expedition to Antarctica. The expedition includes 21 members from India, one from Bangladesh, and two from Mauritius. Dr. Yogesh Ray, a senior scientist from the Antarctic Operations Group of NCPOR, leads the air support with two helicopters.

Question 97: Which Indian state is hosting the International Purple Fest 2024?

Answer: Goa

Explanation: Goa is the host state for the International Purple Fest 2024, India's first inclusive festival for persons with disabilities. The event, organized by the State Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities and supported by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, showcases unity and diversity until January 13.

Question 98: Who has recently been appointed as the CEO of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone?

a) D Muthukumaran

b) Ashwani Gupta

c) Rajesh Sharma

d) Nisha Singh

Explanation: Ashwani Gupta's recent appointment as CEO of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone signifies a pivotal moment, bringing substantial changes to the leadership structure of India's foremost ports and logistics company.

Question 99: Which city was ranked as the best Indian city for women in inclusivity and support for working women in 2023?

a) Mumbai

b) Chennai

c) Bengaluru

d) Delhi

Explanation: Chennai secured the top position in Avtar Group’s TCWI 2023 study, highlighting its leadership in inclusivity and support for working women.

Question 100: In which Indian state is VinFast Auto, the Vietnamese electric vehicle giant, investing $2 billion to establish an integrated electric vehicle facility?

a) Maharashtra

b) Tamil Nadu

c) Karnataka

d) Gujarat

Explanation: VinFast Auto is investing $2 billion to establish an integrated electric vehicle facility in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, as part of its commitment to break into the world's third-largest automobile market.

Question 101: The global headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) is located in which country?

a) United States

b) United Kingdom

c) Australia

d) Canada

Explanation: The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) has its global headquarters situated in the United Kingdom. India's approval to join this world's largest radio telescope project is a significant step towards becoming a member of the intergovernmental organization.

Question 102: On which date is Earth's Rotation Day celebrated annually?  

a) January 1

b) January 8

c) February 15

d) March 21

Explanation: Earth's Rotation Day is celebrated every year on January 8, honouring the significant discovery of Earth's rotation on its axis.

Question 103: Who won the Bangladesh 2024 elections and secured a historic fifth term as the Prime Minister?

a) Khaleda Zia

b) Sheikh Hasina  

c) Begum Zia

d) H. M. Ershad

Explanation: In a momentous turn of events, Sheikh Hasina emerged victorious in the 2024 elections, securing a historic fifth term as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Her triumph reaffirms her position as the world's longest-serving female head of government.

Question 104: With which country has the Union Cabinet of India approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration in the hydrocarbon sector?

a) Brazil

b) Guyana

c) Nigeria

d) South Africa

Explanation: The Union Cabinet approved an MoU between the Ministries of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India, and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Republic of Guyana, aiming to enhance collaboration in various aspects of the hydrocarbon sector's value chain.         

Question 105: Who also known as 'Polar Preet,' claimed the fastest solo ski across Antarctica?

a) Harpreet Chandi

b) Gurbir Kaur

c) Priya Singh

d) Jasleen Kaur

Explanation: British Sikh Army medic Harpreet Chandi, aka 'Polar Preet,' achieved the fastest solo ski across Antarctica, covering 1,130 km in 31 days, 13 hours, and 19 minutes, pending verification from Guinness World Records.

Question 106: The Prime Minister of India inaugurated the submarine optical fiber connection project between which city and Lakshadweep islands?

a) Mumbai

b) Kochi

c) Chennai

d) Visakhapatnam

Explanation: The Prime Minister inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI-SOFC) project, bringing high-speed internet connectivity to Lakshadweep and opening up new possibilities and opportunities for the region.

Question 107: Which government ministry has announced the 'Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar' for the year 2023?

a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

b) Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

c) Ministry of Human Resource Development

d) Ministry of Finance

Explanation: The 'Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar' for the year 2023 has been declared by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, acknowledging the significant contributions of corporate entities, Sports Control Boards, NGOs, and sports bodies towards the promotion and development of sports in India.

Question 108: How many languages did Suchetha Satish sing in, setting a world record during a single concert?

a) 100 languages

b) 140 languages

c) 200 languages

d) 250 languages

Explanation: Suchetha Satish set a world record by singing in an unprecedented 140 languages during a single concert, held at the Indian Consulate Auditorium in Dubai, UAE, as part of the "Concert for Climate" to raise awareness about climate change.

Question 109: Who is the author of the book 'Sanskriti ke Ayaam' released by General VK Singh?

a) Manorama Mishra

b) Vikram Singh

c) Anjali Sharma

d) Amit Kumar

Explanation: The book 'Sanskriti ke Ayaam' was authored by Manorama Mishra and released by General VK Singh. It explores Indian knowledge, tradition, and culture.

Question 110: What are India Ratings and Research's revised GDP growth estimate for India in the current fiscal year (FY'24)?

a) 5.2%

b) 6.0%

c) 6.7%

d) 7.5%

Explanation: India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) raised the GDP growth estimate for the current fiscal year to 6.7%, citing a robust economy, sustained government capital expenditure, and the potential for new private corporate capital expenditure. The revision reflects the agency's optimism despite acknowledged risks such as weak global growth, trade uncertainties, and volatile geopolitical situations.

Question 111: Which state/union territory did the government approve the formation of a draft committee for the establishment of a Madrasa board?

a) Jammu and Kashmir

b) Delhi

c) Uttar Pradesh

d) Haryana

Explanation: The J&K government approved the formation of a draft committee to propose the establishment of a Madrasa board. This development has been welcomed by scholars in Anantnag, expressing gratitude to LG Manoj Sinha and Chief Secretary Atul Dilu for their prompt approval of the draft committee, bringing joy to both the people and students in Jammu and Kashmir.

Question 112: Which state has been leading in ICJS entry rates for the third consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to technology in justice administration?  

a) Maharashtra

b) Uttar Pradesh

c) Tamil Nadu

d) Karnataka

Explanation: Uttar Pradesh has consistently demonstrated the highest entry rates on the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform for three years, emphasizing the state's dedication to incorporating technology into the administration of justice. The ICJS platform, initiated by the Supreme Court’s e-committee and implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs, plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of India's criminal justice system.

Question 113: Which country has taken a digital

 leap by introducing fully digital Schengen visas for the 2024 Olympics?

a) Italy

b) Spain

c) France 

d) Germany

Explanation: France has pioneered the implementation of fully digital Schengen visas for the 2024 Paris Olympics through the "Olympic Consulate" system, making it the first European Union member to adopt such an online visa processing approach. This innovative system, operational since January 1, 2024, simplifies the application process for international athletes, journalists, and foreign delegations.

Question 114: On which date is World Braille Day annually observed?

a) January 2

b) January 4

c) January 6

d) January 8

Explanation: World Braille Day is observed annually on January 4, paying profound tribute to Louis Braille, the visionary mind behind the transformative braille system. Louis Braille, born in 1809 in France, overcame adversity and created one of history's most revolutionary systems.

Question 115: Which country is hosting the FIH Hockey5s World Cup qualifiers?

a) India

b) Oman

c) Japan

d) Australia

Explanation: Oman is set to unveil its latest sports complex to host the FIH (International Hockey Federation) Hockey5s World Cup qualifiers, showcasing the country's commitment to excellence in sports, particularly in the realm of hockey. The event is scheduled just ahead of the Summer 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Question 116: Which bank recently concluded a successful issuance of $1 billion through a Syndicated Social Loan for the domestic ESG financing market?

a) HDFC Bank

b) ICICI Bank

c) State Bank of India

d) Axis Bank

Explanation: The State Bank of India, in response to the growing demand in the domestic Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) financing market, secured $1 billion through a Syndicated Social Loan. The issuance comprised $750 million, with an additional $250 million as a green shoe option, as disclosed in the regulatory filing made by SBI.

Question 117: Who has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH)? 

a) Rakesh Kumar

b) Puneet Chhatwal

c) Meenakshi Sharma

d) Deep Kalra

Explanation: Puneet Chhatwal, the Managing Director and CEO of Indian Hotels Company Limited, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of FAITH, succeeding Nakul Anand.

Question 118: Who is the newly appointed president of the European Investment Bank?

a) Christine Lagarde

b) Angela Merkel

c) Ursula von der Leyen

d) Nadia Calvino

Explanation: Nadia Calvino assumed office as the new president of the European Investment Bank on January 1, making her the first woman and the first Spaniard to hold this position in the institution's history.

Question 119: Which communication satellite is set for launch in the historic collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX?

a) GSAT-18

b) GSAT-20

c) GSAT-22

d) GSAT-24

Explanation: The collaboration between ISRO's commercial arm, NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), and SpaceX involves the launch of the communication satellite GSAT-20. This marks a historic moment as it signifies India's first partnership with SpaceX for space exploration and satellite deployment.

Question 120: At which institution was the Rs 400 crore Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant inaugurated, marking a significant stride in enhancing India's nuclear prowess?

a) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)

b) Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR)

c) Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)

d) Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC)

Explanation: The Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant (DFRP) was inaugurated at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, by the Prime Minister, marking a significant stride in enhancing India's nuclear prowess.

Question 121: Who has been appointed as the Executive Chairperson of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), succeeding Justice S. K. Kaul?

a) Justice A. M. Khanwilkar

b) Justice Sanjiv Khanna

c) Justice D. Y. Chandrachud

d) Justice R. Banumathi

Explanation: Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, has been appointed as the Executive Chairperson of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), succeeding Justice S. K. Kaul, who retired on December 25. This appointment follows the convention of appointing the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court to the crucial position of NALSA Executive Chairman.

Question 122: What is the theme for the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit?

a) Shaping the Future Together

b) Gateway to the Future

c) Vision 2030: Global Partnerships for Sustainable Growth

d) Sustaining Growth, Connecting Communities

Explanation: The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit, taking place from January 10 to 12, 2024, features the theme "Gateway to the Future." Notably, the Chief Guest for the event is Czech Republic's Prime Minister Petr Fiala. This theme emphasizes the summit's crucial role as a platform for global policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and investors to collaborate, form partnerships, and explore diverse investment opportunities, thereby contributing to shaping a promising future.

Question 123: What is the nationality of Beatrice Chebet, the woman who broke the world record for the women's 5 km marathon at the Cursa dels Nassos in Barcelona?

a) Ethiopia

b) Kenya

c) Uganda

d) Nigeria

Explanation: Beatrice Chebet of Kenya displayed athletic prowess by breaking the world record for the women's 5 km marathon in Barcelona, concluding her remarkable year on a triumphant note. The clocking of an astounding 14:13 marked a memorable achievement, pending World Athletics' ratification.

Question 124: Who officially took over as the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Western Naval Command (WNC) in Mumbai on January 3, 2024?

a) Vice Admiral Bimal Verma

b) Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh

c) Vice Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh

d) Vice Admiral G. Ashok Kumar

Explanation: Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, AVSM, NM, officially assumed the role of the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Western Naval Command (WNC) from Vice Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, AVSM, NM, marking a significant transition in naval leadership.

Question 125: Under the new traffic law for hit-and-run cases, what is the increased maximum jail term for drivers who flee and fail to report a fatal accident?

a) 5 years

b) 7 years

c) 10 years

d) 12 years

Explanation: The recent amendment in traffic laws has increased the jail term for drivers involved in hit-and-run cases to a maximum of 10 years, compared to the previous provision allowing up to two years under Section 304A of the IPC for causing death by negligence.

Question 126: Which country declared the Snow Leopard as its

 National symbol, symbolizing dedication to conservation and ecological balance?  

a) Nepal

b) Bhutan

c) Mongolia

d) Kyrgyzstan

Explanation: Kyrgyzstan declared the Snow Leopard as its National symbol, reflecting the country's commitment to conservation and ecological balance, with the leopard holding cultural significance in Kyrgyz folklore and recognized for its role in maintaining ecological balance globally.

Question 127: Which organization was honoured for Encouragement to Sports via Corporate Social Responsibility in the 'Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar'?

a) JSW Group

b) Tata Group

c) Reliance Industries Limited

d) Odisha Mining Corporate Limited

Explanation: Odisha Mining Corporate Limited was honoured for its encouragement of sports through Corporate Social Responsibility in the 'Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar.'

Question 128: Which city in Chhattisgarh unveiled a Green Corridor system for organ transplants, promising efficient and timely transportation in collaboration with the Government of India and Bangalore?

a) Raipur

b) Bilaspur

c) Durg

d) Bhilai

Explanation: Raipur Smart City introduced a Green Corridor system for organ transplants, in collaboration with the Government of India and Bangalore. Equipped with GPS-enabled ambulances, the initiative ensures swift and efficient transportation, promoting a sustainable and life-saving approach in critical situations.

Question 129: In a significant MoU for financing infrastructure projects, which organization collaborated with RVNL and is involved in an investment of up to Rs. 35,000 Crores over the next 5 years?

a) PFC Limited

b) REC Limited

c) LIC Housing Finance Limited

d) HUDCO

Explanation: REC Limited (REC) collaborated with Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) in a significant MoU for financing infrastructure projects. This involves an investment of up to Rs. 35,000 Crores over the next 5 years, covering multi-modal logistics hub projects, rail infrastructure, road, port, and metro projects.