Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 09th November 2024. Daily GK quiz online for bank & competitive exam. Here we have given the Daily Current Affairs Quiz based on the previous days Daily Current Affairs updates. Candidates preparing for IBPS, SBI, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 & other competitive exams can make use of these Current Affairs Quiz.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) Recently the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has added 10-year Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs) to the list of designated government securities in which non-residents can invest through the Fully Accessible Route (FAR). In which year was FAR introduced?

(a) 2019

(b) 2020

(c) 2018

(d) 2017

(e) 2021

2) Recently (Nov’24), Which organization has suggested changes to the Regulatory Sandbox guidelines?

(a) PFDRA

(b) IRDAI

(c) SEBI

(d) SIDBI

(e) NABARD

3) Which bank has made changes to its short-term selected Marginal Cost of Funds-Based Lending Rates (MCLR)?

(a) Axis bank

(b) HDFC bank

(c) ICICI bank

(d) YES bank

(e) DBS bank

4) The Securities and Exchange Board of India will consider the proposal to merge equities exchanges and clearing organizations. What year did interoperability go into force, allowing CCs to clear trades not only for their parent exchange but also across several equity exchanges?

(a) 2010

(b) 2012

(c) 2016

(d) 2018

(e) 2015

5) The CAC was reorganized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to recommend changes that would boost industry participation in apprenticeships. How many members will the new CAC have throughout its three-year term?

(a) 52

(b) 54

(c) 56

(d) 58

(e) 50

6) The CEO of Niti Aayog recently advocated for India's involvement in China-backed trade blocs, citing concerns about trade deficits. India has free trade agreements (FTAs) with almost all RCEP members, with the exception of which country (currently negotiating) and China?

(a) Japan

(b) Australia

(c) New Zealand

(d) South Korea

(e) Azerbaijan

7) Due to scheduling issues, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi may not attend the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in which country next month?

(a) Japan

(b) Australia

(c) New Zealand

(d) South Korea

(e) Azerbaijan

8) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) hosted the Anti-Terrorism Conference-2024 in New Delhi, which was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. How many number of NIA medal winners honoured for their exceptional national security contributions?

(a) 10

(b) 11

(c) 12

(d) 13

(e) 15

9) For a period of three years, Reliance Power and its subsidiaries are not permitted to participate in clean energy bids by the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), the country's leading renewable energy organization. How many gigawatts of renewable energy capacity does India currently have installed?

(a) 154 GW

(b) 124 GW

(c) 144 GW

(d) 164 GW

(e) 184 GW

10) At the 2024 WAN-IFRA Asian Media Awards, which honor excellence in journalism, the Hindu shines. The Small/Medium Media category highlighted the expansion of smaller journalism organizations by recognizing media companies with yearly revenues under how many million?

(a) USD 10 million

(b) USD 5 million

(c) USD 15 million

(d) USD 20 million

(e) USD 25 million

11) Which country has declared that it intends to join South Africa's case against Israel before the end of the year at the International Court of Justice (ICJ)?

(a) Libya

(b) Mexico

(c) Ireland

(d) Kazakhstan

(e) Azerbaijan

12) Which nation created the high-energy laser weapon system Iron Beam to combat aerial threats like mortars, rockets, drones, and missiles?

(a) China

(b) Japan

(c) Russia

(d) South Korea

(e) Israel

13) Bengaluru will launch its first digital population clock to monitor demographic changes in real time. How many seconds does India's population update?

(a) 1sec

(b) 2sec

(c) 3sec

(d) 4sec

(e) 5sec

14) In which state has the Indian government opened an investigation into the deaths of ten elephants at the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve?

(a) Madhya Pradesh

(b) Uttar Pradesh

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Gujarat

(e) Arunachal Pradesh

15) The projected Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park in Bankhandi, Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, would be India's first zoo to receive IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) certification for sustainable and environmentally friendly methods. Where is the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)'s headquarters located?

(a) Kolkata

(b) Bengaluru

(c) Hyderabad

(d) Chennai

(e) New Delhi

16) Which government will soon release policies centered on the semiconductor and global capability centers (GCC) as announced by Babul Supriyo, minister of the IT and electronics department?

(a) Madhya Pradesh

(b) Uttar Pradesh

(c) Maharashtra

(d) West Bengal

(e) Arunachal Pradesh

17) Ritwik Bhattacharjee has been appointed as acting CEO of Embassy Office Parks REIT, effective immediately. Who did he succeed?

(a) Ananda Bose

(b) Arvind Maiya

(c) Rajesh Khanna

(d) Ravi Agarwal

(e) Arun Bansal

18) Recently (Nov’24), Donald Trump defeated Democratic nominee Kamala Harris to win a non-consecutive second term as the ________ President of the United States.

(a) 45th

(b) 46th

(c) 47th

(d) 48th

(e) 49th

19) Dr. Jacqueline d'Arros Hughes, Director General of ICRISAT, was appointed Secretary General of the World Agricultural Forum. Where is ICRISAT's headquarters located?

(a) Karnataka

(b) Telangana

(c) New Delhi

(d) Maharashtra

(e) Madhya Pradesh

20) What percentage of Airtel has been acquired by Bharti Telecom, the company that promotes Bharti Airtel, from Indian Continent Investment Limited, the investment company owned by the Bharti family?

(a) 1.1%

(b) 1.2%

(c) 1.3%

(d) 1.4%

(e) 1.5%

21) Recently, the Google launches AI acceleration initiatives for Indian entrepreneurs during the Bengaluru summit. How many weeks of hands-on help for AI startups are included in the Emerging ISV Partner Springboard?

(a) 12-week

(b) 10-week

(c) 15-week

(d) 20-week

(e) 16-week

22) In a historic move for the country's space exploration efforts, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched India's first analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh.Which of the following does not support the Human Spaceflight Center's mission at ISRO?

(a) AAKA Space Studio

(b) University of Ladakh

(c) IIT Delhi

(d) Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

(e) IIT Bombay

23) For the third time in five years, Shiv Nadar, the founder of HCL Technologies Ltd., has maintained his position as India's leading philanthropist. At 38, who was acknowledged as the youngest philanthropist?

(a) Krishna Chivukula

(b) Nikhil Kamath

(c) Susmita

(d) Nandan Nilekani

(e) Subroto Bagchi

24) According to Counterpoint Research, India's smartphone industry grew to be the second-largest in the world by unit volume and the third-largest by value in Q3 2024. Which nation was at the top of the list?

(a) China

(b) USA

(c) Russia

(d) Australia

(e) UK

25) Which state is home to 21-year-old Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, who has risen to the second position in the world's live chess rankings?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Andhra Pradesh

(c) Arunachal Pradesh

(d) Madhya Pradesh

(e) Maharashtra

Answers :

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the list of specified Government securities that non-residents can invest in under the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) by including 10-year Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs).

The 10-year SGrBs, to be issued by the Government of India in the second half of the fiscal year 2024-25, are designated as specified securities under FAR.

Purpose of FAR:FAR was introduced in 2020 to allow non-residents to invest in specified Government of India dated securities without investment ceilings.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the list of specified Government securities that non-residents can invest in under the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) by including 10-year Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs).

The 10-year SGrBs, to be issued by the Government of India in the second half of the fiscal year 2024-25, are designated as specified securities under FAR.

Purpose of FAR:FAR was introduced in 2020 to allow non-residents to invest in specified Government of India dated securities without investment ceilings.

Eligible investors include Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs), Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and other entities allowed to invest in Government securities under Debt Regulations.

G-Secs will also be included in Bloomberg EM Local Currency Government indices starting January 2025.

FTSE Russell will include G-Secs in the FTSE Emerging Markets Government Bond Index (EMGBI) starting September 2025.

Government's Borrowing Plans:In the second half of 2024-25, the Government plans to raise ₹6.61 lakh crore through Government dated securities.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has proposed amendments to the Regulatory Sandbox norms.

The changes aim to incorporate a principle-based approach instead of the current rule-based approach.

Detailed Explanation:

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has proposed amendments to the Regulatory Sandbox norms.

The changes aim to incorporate a principle-based approach instead of the current rule-based approach.

Purpose of Amendments:The amendments are designed to facilitate the adoption of innovative ideas and new concepts across the entire insurance value chain.

Committee's Role:IRDAI constituted an internal committee to review the existing IRDAI (Regulatory Sandbox) Regulations.

Public Consultation:IRDAI has issued an exposure draft of the IRDAI (Regulatory Sandbox) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

HDFC Bank has revised its Marginal Cost of Funds-Based Lending Rates (MCLR) for select short-term tenures.

The revision, effective from November 3, 2024, includes an increase of up to 5 basis points (bps) for the overnight, one-month, and three-year tenures.

Detailed Explanation:

HDFC Bank has revised its Marginal Cost of Funds-Based Lending Rates (MCLR) for select short-term tenures.

The revision, effective from November 3, 2024, includes an increase of up to 5 basis points (bps) for the overnight, one-month, and three-year tenures.

New MCLR Rates:

Overnight MCLR: Increased to 9.15% from 9.10%.

One-month MCLR: Increased to 9.20% from 9.15%.

Three-year MCLR: Increased to 9.50% from 9.45%.

Unchanged MCLR Rates:

The three-month, six-month, one-year, and two-year MCLRs remain unchanged:

Three-month MCLR: 9.30%.

Six-month MCLR: 9.45%.

One-year MCLR: 9.45%.

Two-year MCLR: 9.45%.

Impact on Borrowers:Borrowers with loans linked to MCLR will experience a change in their EMIs as a result of the revised MCLR rates.

Loans linked to the base rate or BPLR (Benchmark Prime Lending Rate), which were taken before 2016, will not be affected by this MCLR revision.

4) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is evaluating the demerger of equity stock exchanges and their associated equity clearing corporations (CCs) to ensure more diversified ownership and enhance independence.

Introduction of Interoperability:Since 2018, interoperability has been introduced, allowing CCs to clear trades across multiple equity exchanges rather than only for their parent exchange. This change has led to better redundancy and ease of trading in the securities market.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is evaluating the demerger of equity stock exchanges and their associated equity clearing corporations (CCs) to ensure more diversified ownership and enhance independence.

Objective for Independence and Self-Sufficiency:The proposal aims to make Clearing Corporations (CCs) independent and self-sufficient, with broad-based ownership and risk-based participation from clearing members to ensure fairness across Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs).

Clearing Corporations' Role:Clearing Corporations (CCs) act as central counterparties for clearing and settlement, ensuring the smooth processing of trades.

Ownership Structure of CCs:Currently, CCs are 100% owned by their parent exchanges, but they are not listed separately.

Introduction of Interoperability:Since 2018, interoperability has been introduced, allowing CCs to clear trades across multiple equity exchanges rather than only for their parent exchange. This change has led to better redundancy and ease of trading in the securities market.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has reconstituted the CAC to suggest reforms to increase apprenticeship engagement in industries.

The new CAC will have a three-year tenure with 54 members representing industry associations, PSUs, state governments, and independent experts—up from 46 members in the 2019 council.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has reconstituted the CAC to suggest reforms to increase apprenticeship engagement in industries.

The new CAC will have a three-year tenure with 54 members representing industry associations, PSUs, state governments, and independent experts—up from 46 members in the 2019 council.

The reconstitution falls under Section 24 of the Apprentices Act, 1961, emphasizing MSDE’s commitment to strengthening the apprenticeship ecosystem.

The new CAC includes 6 public sector undertakings (PSUs): BHEL, IOC, South Eastern Coalfields Limited, Neyveli Lignite Corporation, Bharat Electronics Limited, and HAL.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of Niti Aayog, suggested that India should join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

RCEP includes the 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners: China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

India has free trade agreements (FTAs) with nearly all RCEP members except New Zealand (currently in negotiations) and China.

Detailed Explanation:

B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of Niti Aayog, suggested that India should join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

This stance contrasts with the Indian government’s 2019 decision to exit RCEP negotiations, citing potential challenges from free trade with China.

RCEP includes the 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners: China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

India has free trade agreements (FTAs) with nearly all RCEP members except New Zealand (currently in negotiations) and China.

India-China trade has increased but is heavily imbalanced, with a trade deficit of $85 billion in 2023.

Post-RCEP, ASEAN's trade deficit with China increased from $81.7 billion in 2020 to $135.6 billion in 2023, raising concerns that RCEP favours China disproportionately.

7) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi may skip the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Azerbaijan next month due to scheduling issues.

India is scheduled to speak at COP29 either on November 19 or 20, as part of the Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDC) group.

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi may skip the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Azerbaijan next month due to scheduling issues.

The absence will also rule out the potential for a meeting between Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, which had been a point of interest after S. Jaishankar's recent visit to Islamabad.

COP conferences are used by leaders for informal bilateral discussions.

PM Modi had previously met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at COP26 in Glasgow, showcasing the forum’s importance for diplomatic exchanges.

India is scheduled to speak at COP29 either on November 19 or 20, as part of the Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDC) group.

One major issue is the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, with a focus on raising funds beyond the $100 billion target for post-2025 climate action.

India has emphasized the need for developed countries to meet their climate finance commitments, a stance PM Modi highlighted in previous summits.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Anti-Terrorism Conference-2024 in New Delhi, organized by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Shah unveiled the motto of NIA and released the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for investigations under the UAPA.

11 NIA medal winners were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to national security.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Anti-Terrorism Conference-2024 in New Delhi, organized by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Shah unveiled the motto of NIA and released the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for investigations under the UAPA.

11 NIA medal winners were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to national security.

Shah emphasized the significant progress India has made under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, particularly with a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.

He announced the introduction of a National Counter-Terrorism Policy & Strategy aimed at combating terrorism comprehensively.

NIA Act Amendments (2019) have extended the agency's reach by enabling extraterritorial investigations and the designation of individuals and organizations as terrorists.

A 25-point integrated plan has been implemented to counter-terrorism financing and other threats, resulting in effective coordination among various agencies.

9) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), India's top renewable energy agency, has banned Reliance Power and its subsidiaries from participating in clean energy tenders for three years.

As of now, India’s installed renewable energy capacity stands at approximately 154 GW. The nation aims for a net-zero goal by 2070.

Detailed Explanation:

The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), India's top renewable energy agency, has banned Reliance Power and its subsidiaries from participating in clean energy tenders for three years.

The ban follows SECI’s findings of a forged bank guarantee in a bid submission for a renewable energy tender.

Reliance Power, led by Anil Ambani, denied any wrongdoing, stating that it was a victim of fraud by a third party responsible for arranging the bank guarantee.

The company announced its decision to legally challenge the ban and has filed a complaint with the Delhi Police's economic offence wing.

This ban comes at a time when Indian companies are accelerating their renewable energy initiatives to meet India’s target of 500 GW by 2030.

As of now, India’s installed renewable energy capacity stands at approximately 154 GW. The nation aims for a net-zero goal by 2070.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Gold in Best Breaking News Article: Awarded to “Making Sense of the Electoral Bonds Data”, highlighting The Hindu's impactful journalism.

Silver in Best Feature Article: Awarded to “Kota’s Crash Course”, a Ground Zero report capturing the lives of students in Kota's coaching centres.

Location: The awards were presented at a cocktail reception at Mount Faber Peak, Singapore as part of the Asian Media Leaders Summit.

Recognition of Small/Medium Media: This category celebrated media companies with annual revenues under USD 10 million, emphasizing the growth of smaller firms in journalism.

Detailed Explanation:

Gold in Best Breaking News Article: Awarded to “Making Sense of the Electoral Bonds Data”, highlighting The Hindu's impactful journalism.

Silver in Best Feature Article: Awarded to “Kota’s Crash Course”, a Ground Zero report capturing the lives of students in Kota's coaching centres.

South China Morning Post (SCMP): Secured three Golds and one Silver across various categories including front page design, photography, and infographics.

SPH Media: Awarded two Golds and two Silvers, recognized for design and storytelling excellence.

Kumparan: Garnered four awards in the small/medium media category, showcasing the strength of emerging media companies.

Sponsored by Roche, awards for Best in Healthcare Reporting and Best in Healthcare Infographics underscore the importance of informative healthcare journalism.

The Japan Times and Malayala Manorama took home awards for outstanding reporting in this critical field.

The Korea Economic Daily and Nhan Dan Newspaper won awards, marking their debut at this prestigious event.

Location: The awards were presented at a cocktail reception at Mount Faber Peak, Singapore as part of the Asian Media Leaders Summit.

Recognition of Small/Medium Media: This category celebrated media companies with annual revenues under USD 10 million, emphasizing the growth of smaller firms in journalism.

11) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Ireland has expressed its intention to join South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), set to occur before the end of the year.

South Africa's Role: South Africa initiated the case at the ICJ in December, accusing Israel of breaching the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention.

Detailed Explanation:

Ireland has expressed its intention to join South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), set to occur before the end of the year.

The Irish parliament passed a non-binding motion accusing Israel of perpetrating genocide in Gaza, as part of the broader international debate surrounding the ongoing conflict.

South Africa's Role: South Africa initiated the case at the ICJ in December, accusing Israel of breaching the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention.

Israel has strongly denied the accusations.

Other Supporting Nations: Other countries, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya, have joined or supported the case in solidarity with South Africa.

ICJ Filing: South Africa filed a "memorial" with the ICJ, a comprehensive document of over 750 pages, supported by more than 4,000 pages of evidence, claiming genocide by Israel in Gaza.

Irish Government's Stance: Ireland has been a vocal critic of Israel's actions following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and its subsequent military response in Gaza

12) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Iron Beam is a high-energy laser weapon system developed by Israel to counter aerial threats such as missiles, drones, rockets, and mortars.

It was unveiled in 2014 and is a 100kW class High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS).

Detailed Explanation:

Iron Beam is a high-energy laser weapon system developed by Israel to counter aerial threats such as missiles, drones, rockets, and mortars.

It is expected to be operational within a year and will significantly enhance Israel's defence capabilities.

It was unveiled in 2014 and is a 100kW class High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS).

The operational range of Iron Beam extends up to 7 km (4.3 miles).

It is developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, in partnership with Elbit Systems.

It will play a crucial role in Israel’s multi-layered defence strategy, especially amid escalating tensions with neighbouring regions and groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

13) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Bengaluru City’s first digital population clock, which will display real-time estimates of the population of Karnataka and the country, will be inaugurated at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) in the city.

It is a joint project of ISEC and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

Purpose and Functionality:The population clock will display real-time estimates of:

Karnataka's population, updating every 1 minute 10 seconds.

India's population, updating every 2 seconds.

Detailed Explanation:

Bengaluru City’s first digital population clock, which will display real-time estimates of the population of Karnataka and the country, will be inaugurated at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) in the city.

It is a joint project of ISEC and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

Purpose and Functionality:The population clock will display real-time estimates of:

Karnataka's population, updating every 1 minute 10 seconds.

India's population, updating every 2 seconds.

Technology and Features:The clock is satellite-connected for precise timekeeping.

It operates autonomously with all components integrated into the system.

Objectives:Population Awareness: Serves as a constant reminder of rapid population growth and the need for sustainable development.

Research and Data Access: Provides authentic demographic data for researchers and scholars.

Related Initiatives:The MoHFW has set up population clocks in 18 Population Research Centres (PRCs) across India.

14) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Indian government has initiated an investigation into the deaths of 10 elephants at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has formed a team to independently investigate the deaths.

The Madhya Pradesh government has set up a five-member committee at the state level to investigate the elephant deaths and submit a report.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian government has initiated an investigation into the deaths of 10 elephants at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has formed a team to independently investigate the deaths.

The Madhya Pradesh government has set up a five-member committee at the state level to investigate the elephant deaths and submit a report.

The deaths were first detected on October 29, 2024, in the Salkhania beats of the Pataur and Khiatuli ranges within Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.

Four elephants were found dead initially, and six others were found sick or unconscious in the vicinity and later died.

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The upcoming Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park at Bankhandi in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, will be India's first zoo to receive IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) certification for sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives.

The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and was established in 2001.

Its headquarters are in Hyderabad.

Detailed Explanation:

The upcoming Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park at Bankhandi in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, will be India's first zoo to receive IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) certification for sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives.

This was announced by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

IGBC Certification:The zoo has been registered with the IGBC for both building and landscape certifications, which will validate its adherence to high environmental standards.

The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and was established in 2001.

Its headquarters are in Hyderabad.

Project Details and Phases:Phase 1:Covers an area of 25 hectares with an estimated cost of ₹230 crore.

Expected completion by the third quarter of 2025.

Entire Project:Total project outlay is ₹619 crore.

Aims to boost tourism in Kangra and nearby distri

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

IT and Electronics department minister Babul Supriyo announced that the West Bengal government will soon announce policies focused on global capability centres (GCC) and semiconductor industries.

Detailed Explanation:

IT and Electronics department minister Babul Supriyo announced that the West Bengal government will soon announce policies focused on global capability centres (GCC) and semiconductor industries.

The goal is to position West Bengal as the next IT destination in India.

Incentives for Technological Companies:The state plans to offer incentives to attract technology companies, including:

100% electric duty waiver

100% stamp duty waiver

50% property tax waiver

Focus on Digital Infrastructure:The policies aim to create digital infrastructure in the state, facilitating the growth of the tech industry.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Ritwik Bhattacharjee has been appointed as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Embassy Office Parks REIT with immediate effect.

The appointment follows the SEBI order to suspend Arvind Maiya as CEO of Embassy Office Parks Management Services.

Detailed Explanation:

Ritwik Bhattacharjee has been appointed as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Embassy Office Parks REIT with immediate effect.

The appointment follows the SEBI order to suspend Arvind Maiya as CEO of Embassy Office Parks Management Services.

Reason for Suspension:SEBI's decision is based on a directive from the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), which barred Maiya for 10 years from conducting audits related to financial statements or internal audits of any corporate entity.

A ₹50 lakh penalty was also imposed on Arvind Maiya by NFRA.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Donald Trump won a non-consecutive second term as the 47th President of the United States, defeating Vice-President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee.

Republicans gained control of the Senate with at least 52 seats out of 100.

Significance:Trump becomes only the second U.S. President to serve non-consecutive terms and, at 78 years old, is now the oldest U.S. President to enter office.

Detailed Explanation:

Donald Trump won a non-consecutive second term as the 47th President of the United States, defeating Vice-President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee.

Republicans gained control of the Senate with at least 52 seats out of 100.

Significance:Trump becomes only the second U.S. President to serve non-consecutive terms and, at 78 years old, is now the oldest U.S. President to enter office.

Joe Biden, the incumbent President (82 years), withdrew due to party concerns regarding age-related cognitive issues.

Electoral College and Popular Vote:Trump had secured 292 Electoral College votes to Harris's 224 (270 votes are needed to win).

He was projected to win the popular vote, marking the first Republican to do so since George W. Bush in 2004.

Key Issues Influencing Trump’s Victory:Voters were motivated by concerns around inflation, the economy, and illegal migration — central themes in Trump's campaign.

Trump’s policy promises included border security, mass deportations, and tariff-based tax cuts.

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes, Director General of International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), has been appointed as the Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) in November 2024.

International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) located in Telangana.

Detailed Explanation:

Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes, Director General of International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), has been appointed as the Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) in November 2024.

She is a distinguished plant virologist with a focus on remote sensing, digitalization, gender equity, and ethical use of intellectual property in agriculture.

She has worked on integrating modern technologies to improve agricultural outcomes.

During her leadership at ICRISAT, Dr. Hughes guided the organization through a number of notable achievements:

Africa Food Prize (2021): ICRISAT was recognized for its positive impact on African agriculture.

International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) located in Telangana.

20) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Bharti Telecom, the promoter of Bharti Airtel, has purchased 1.2% stake in Airtel from Indian Continent Investment Limited, the Bharti family's investment firm.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharti Telecom, the promoter of Bharti Airtel, has purchased 1.2% stake in Airtel from Indian Continent Investment Limited, the Bharti family's investment firm.

Post-Transaction Stakeholding:After the transaction, Bharti Telecom holds a 40.33% stake in Bharti Airtel.

Indian Continent Investment Limited now holds a 3.31% stake in Airtel.

Estimated Transaction Value:The 1.2% stake is valued at approximately ₹11,650 crore, based on Airtel's closing share price of ₹1,598.75 on the BSE.

Ownership of Bharti Telecom:Sunil Bharti Mittal's family holds 50.56% stake in Bharti Telecom.

21) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Google announced a suite of initiatives at the AI Startups Summit in Bengaluru, targeting early-stage AI startups to help them build, grow, and scale AI-driven solutions using Google Cloud.

The Emerging ISV Partner Springboard is a 12-week programme that provides hands-on support for AI startups.

Detailed Explanation:

Google announced a suite of initiatives at the AI Startups Summit in Bengaluru, targeting early-stage AI startups to help them build, grow, and scale AI-driven solutions using Google Cloud.

The Emerging ISV Partner Springboard is a 12-week programme that provides hands-on support for AI startups.

Startups receive guidance in product development, technical architecture, go-to-market strategies, and onboarding to Google Cloud Marketplace.

Financial Support - Cloud Credits:Google for Startups Cloud Program: Offers $200,000 in Google Cloud credits over two years for early-stage founders.

AI-Specific Credits: An additional $350,000 in credits is available for AI-first startups, acknowledging the high computational requirements of AI projects.

Partnerships for Enhanced Resources:Google has partnered with accelerators and incubators such as Y Combinator, 500, StartX, and Berkeley Skydeck.

22) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched India’s inaugural analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh, marking a pioneering step in the nation’s space exploration efforts.

The mission, spearheaded by ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, brings together partners from AAKA Space Studio, the University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and is supported by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched India’s inaugural analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh, marking a pioneering step in the nation’s space exploration efforts.

The mission, spearheaded by ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, brings together partners from AAKA Space Studio, the University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and is supported by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

This mission aims to simulate interplanetary habitat conditions, helping scientists explore the feasibility of establishing a sustainable base station beyond Earth.

Ladakh’s extreme isolation, dry climate, and barren, high-altitude terrain make it ideal for simulating conditions similar to Mars and the Moon.

The environment presents an opportunity for researchers to gather critical data that will support India’s Gaganyaan program and future missions.

23) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Shiv Nadar, founder of HCL Technologies Ltd., retained his title as India’s top philanthropist for the third time in five years.

Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha was recognised as the youngest philanthropist at 38.

Detailed Explanation:

Shiv Nadar, founder of HCL Technologies Ltd., retained his title as India’s top philanthropist for the third time in five years.

He donated ₹2,153 crore (equivalent to ₹5.9 crore per day) in 2023-24, topping the Edelgive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2024.

Mukesh Ambani and his family ranked second, contributing ₹407 crore through Reliance Foundation.

The top 10 philanthropists collectively contributed ₹4,625 crore in the fiscal year.

Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha was recognised as the youngest philanthropist at 38.

The list saw 96 new entrants, bringing the total count of philanthropists to 203 with a combined donation of ₹8,783 crore.

24) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

India has become the second-largest smartphone market globally by unit volume and the third-largest by value in Q3 2024, as per Counterpoint Research.

India accounted for 15.5% of global smartphone shipments, behind only China (22%) and the United States (12%).

Detailed Explanation:

India has become the second-largest smartphone market globally by unit volume and the third-largest by value in Q3 2024, as per Counterpoint Research.

India accounted for 15.5% of global smartphone shipments, behind only China (22%) and the United States (12%).

By market value, India captured 12.3%, showing a slight increase from 12.1% in the same period last year.

The smartphone average selling price (ASP) in India grew by 8%, reaching US$ 294, as more consumers opted for premium models.

The premium segment saw a significant rise, with Samsung and Apple holding a combined 44.6% market share by value in India.

25) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Arjun Erigaisi, the 21-year-old Indian Grandmaster from Warangal, Andhra Pradesh, has surged to world No. 2 in the live chess rankings, following an impressive win over Russian Grandmaster Alexey Sarana at the ongoing Chennai Grand Masters.

Erigaisi now has an Elo rating of 2805.8, making him only the second Indian player to cross the 2800 Elo barrier, a feat previously achieved by Viswanathan Anand.

Detailed Explanation:

Arjun Erigaisi, the 21-year-old Indian Grandmaster from Warangal, Andhra Pradesh, has surged to world No. 2 in the live chess rankings, following an impressive win over Russian Grandmaster Alexey Sarana at the ongoing Chennai Grand Masters.

Erigaisi now has an Elo rating of 2805.8, making him only the second Indian player to cross the 2800 Elo barrier, a feat previously achieved by Viswanathan Anand.

His performance this year has been stellar, and his victory in Chennai has propelled him to the No. 2 spot, just behind Magnus Carlsen, the five-time World Chess Champion.

Arjun’s ranking in the FIDE Circuit is noteworthy, and if he ends 2024 at the top of the standings, he will qualify for the FIDE Candidates Tournament—a crucial event for competing in the World Chess Championship.

He played a pivotal role in helping India win its first-ever gold medal in the open section at the 45th Chess Olympiad, where he earned individual gold on Board 3 with an outstanding score of 10/11 (nine wins, two draws).