Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 15th & 16th December 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.

 

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1) Recently(Dec’24), Which company has been fully authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to act as a payment aggregator under the framework of Payment and Settlement Systems?

(a) Stripe

(b) Instamojo

(c) In-Solutions Global

(d) Mollie

(e) Digio

2) What percentage did CARE Ratings change their prediction of 6.8% for India's GDP growth in FY25?

(a) 6.2%

(b) 6.4%

(c) 6.0%

(d) 6.6%

(e) 6.5%

3) With an emphasis on capital expenditure-driven industries like roads, railroads, and civil aviation, what percentage of the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is anticipated for India's infrastructure investment over the coming years?

(a) 12%

(b) 11%

(c) 10%

(d) 15%

(e) 20%

4) In order to update India's statistics systems and make use of cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) is scheduled to introduce an ambitious five-year plan (2025–2029).How many days after survey completion does MOSPI hope to release the results?

(a) 15days

(b) 30days

(c) 45days

(d) 60days

(e) 90days

5) The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the acquisition of how many more K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), as well as progress on Zorawar light tank trials?

(a) 120

(b) 100

(c) 150

(d) 200

(e) 250

6) Recently(Dec’24), Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the final session of the fourth National Conference of Chief Secretaries in New Delhi. How many critical sectors were recognized as requiring priority attention?

(a) 5

(b) 4

(c) 6

(d) 7

(e) 8

7) Which Department plans to build a "future-ready" consumer grievance redressal platform with the e-Jagriti app and an updated portal?

(a) Department of Corporate affairs

(b) Department of Consumer affairs

(c) Department of Statistics &Programme

(d) Department of Labor & Employment

(e) Department of Agriculture

8) Which state hosted the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways' (MoPSW) India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024), which was a major step in acknowledging India's rich maritime heritage and concentrating on its future as a worldwide maritime leader?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Odisha

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Kerala

(e) Gujarat

9) Which nation has suspended the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement's (DTAA) Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause with India?

(a) Singapore

(b) Switzerland

(c) Russia

(d) China

(e) France

10) In order to position the state to become India's first $1 trillion economy by 2028–2030, which state's chief minister outlined ambitious economic plans at the World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) 2024?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Odisha

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Kerala

(e) Gujarat

11) Which nation's president, following a historic parliamentary vote that overthrew the previous government, named centrist ally Francois Bayrou as prime minister on December 13, 2024?

(a) Singapore

(b) Switzerland

(c) Vietnam

(d) Thailand

(e) France

12) How many crores in cash was announced by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin for Grandmaster D Gukesh of Chennai following his historic victory as the youngest World Chess Champion?

(a) Rs.1crore

(b) Rs.2crore

(c) Rs.3crore

(d) Rs.4crore

(e) Rs.5crore

13) With the 2024–25 season scheduled to commence on December 28, 2024, how many years has the Hockey India League (HIL) secured a historic media rights agreement with Sony Sports Network (SSN)?

(a) 2years

(b) 1years

(c) 3years

(d) 4years

(e) 5years

14) An important step in using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve healthcare has been taken with the signing of an MOU by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, with which firm to create an AI Health Innovations Hub?

(a) Accenture

(b) TCS

(c) Wipro

(d) Infosys

(e) Tech Mahindra

15) What percentage of ICICI Bank's affiliate firm, ICICI Merchant Services Private Ltd (IMSPL), has been sold by the bank's board of directors, subject to the required regulatory approvals?

(a) 15%

(b) 16%

(c) 17%

(d) 18%

(e) 19%

16) When was Vijay Diwas 2024 observed on?

(a) December 12

(b) December 13

(c) December 14

(d) December 15

(e) December 16

17) Which country's star all-rounder, Imad Wasim, has announced his retirement from international cricket after a phenomenal nine-year career?

(a) Bangladesh

(b) Pakistan

(c) Sri Lanka

(d) West Indies

(e) New Zealand

18) To improve access to high-quality education throughout India, Google collaborates with the National Council of Educational Research and Training. How many Indian languages are covered by the channels?

(a) 27

(b) 23

(c) 24

(d) 25

(e) 29

19) A space firm from Chennai called Space Kidz is aiming for September 2026 with an all-female scientific lunar trip.How many kilograms will be carried by the satellite?

(a) 50kg

(b) 60kg

(c) 70kg

(d) 80kg

(e) 90kg

20) How many million dollars in additional military aid was announced by the United States (US) to help Ukraine defend against Russia's continuous attacks?

(a) $200million

(b) $100million

(c) $300million

(d) $400million

(e) $500million

Answers :

1) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

In-Solutions Global (ISG) has received full authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a payment aggregator under the Payment and Settlement Systems framework.

Detailed Explanation:

In-Solutions Global (ISG) has received full authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a payment aggregator under the Payment and Settlement Systems framework.

As a fully authorised payment aggregator, ISG will continue to play a key role in India’s digital payments ecosystem, providing robust and reliable payment processing services to merchants and enterprises.

ISG processes over 28 billion transactions annually and serves more than 70% of banks in India

The authorisation strengthens ISG’s position as a trusted partner for enterprises and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by providing scalable payment solutions.

The company aims to empower businesses with secure, compliant, and seamless payment solutions.

ISG offers an integrated suite of payment solutions, including:Online platforms, Retail transactions, Transit payments, Prepaid payment instruments (PPI), National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), Gift cards.

2) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

CARE Ratings revised India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for FY25 to 6.5% from the earlier estimate of 6.8%.

This revision is attributed to:

Contraction in corporate profitability.

Decline in public capital expenditure (capex) in the first half of FY25.

Weak urban consumption demand.

Detailed Explanation:

CARE Ratings revised India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for FY25 to 6.5% from the earlier estimate of 6.8%.

This revision is attributed to:

Contraction in corporate profitability.

Decline in public capital expenditure (capex) in the first half of FY25.

Weak urban consumption demand.

Expected Economic Pickup in H2 FY25:Despite the slowdown in the first half, the economy is expected to improve in the second half of FY25, driven by:

Increased government capex.

Strong agricultural output, which would support rural consumption.

Projected GDP Growth for FY26:The economy is expected to grow at 6.7% in FY26.

Corporate Sector and Investment Outlook:The corporate sector is facing challenges due to uncertain global conditions, leading to hesitancy in long-term investments.

However, private investment is expected to improve in 2025, supported by anticipated monetary policy easing.

Inflation Projections:Food inflation is expected to moderate in the coming quarters due to a strong kharif harvest and favorable rabi sowing.

FY25 inflation is expected to remain at 4.8%.

CARE Ratings anticipates a 50-75 basis points rate cut in 2025.

3) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

India's infrastructure investment is expected to grow at a 15% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the next few years, with a focus on capex-driven sectors like roads, railways, and civil aviation.

Current infrastructure investment stands at 5.3% of GDP, projected to rise to 6.5% of Gross domestic product (GDP) by 2029, indicating a CAGR of 15.3%.

Detailed Explanation:

India's infrastructure investment is expected to grow at a 15% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the next few years, with a focus on capex-driven sectors like roads, railways, and civil aviation.

Current infrastructure investment stands at 5.3% of GDP, projected to rise to 6.5% of Gross domestic product (GDP) by 2029, indicating a CAGR of 15.3%.

Historic Budget Allocation:A historic budget of ₹111 lakh crore has been allocated for infrastructure projects, which is greater than the total GDP of many developing nations.

Road Sector Development:The Budget allocation for roads has increased ninefold from ₹31,130 crore in 2013-14 to ₹2.7 lakh crore in 2024-25.

India's national highway network has grown to 146,126 km as of July 2024, marking a 60% increase from 91,287 km in March 2014.

Improved road construction has led to a 20% reduction in freight truck transit times, resulting in potential savings of ₹2.4 lakh crore annually in logistics costs.

India aims to reduce logistics costs to 9% of GDP by 2025.

4) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) is set to launch an ambitious five-year plan (2025-2029) to modernize India’s statistical systems and leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).

MOSPI aims to release survey results within 90 days of completion.

Detailed Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) is set to launch an ambitious five-year plan (2025-2029) to modernize India’s statistical systems and leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).

The ministry plans to integrate AI/ML technologies into statistical processes for better accuracy and data-driven decision-making.

Enhanced use of computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI) for surveys, ensuring streamlined and efficient data collection.

Collaborative efforts with state governments to improve statistical systems at the district level.

Leveraging Goods and Services Tax (GST) data for refining value-added statistics.

Partnering with e-commerce platforms to track online price data, providing insights into consumer behavior and inflation.

MOSPI aims to release survey results within 90 days of completion.

Enhanced focus on real-time data monitoring and ensuring data transparency.

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved the acquisition of 100 additional K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), along with progress on Zorawar light tank trials.

This reflects India's focus on bolstering its firepower and mobility in challenging terrains.

Detailed Explanation:

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved the acquisition of 100 additional K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), along with progress on Zorawar light tank trials.

This reflects India's focus on bolstering its firepower and mobility in challenging terrains.

Quantity: 100 additional K-9 Vajra guns.

Cost: Estimated at over ₹4,500 crore to account for inflation and upgraded features.

Delay: The procurement faced delays, likely due to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, despite being initiated over a year ago.

Type: 155-mm, 52-calibre self-propelled howitzers.

Range: Over 50 km.

Mobility: Designed for extreme heat and cold, capable of deployment in deserts and high-altitude areas along the LAC (China) and LoC (Pakistan).

Manufacturing: Produced at L&T's Armoured Systems Complex in Hazira, Gujarat, with technology transferred from Hanwha Defense (South Korea).

Indigenization: L&T has significantly increased domestic components to support Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence.

6) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the concluding session of the fourth National Conference of Chief Secretaries, held in New Delhi.

Discussions revolved around six key sectors identified for priority attention:

Manufacturing

Services

Rural Non-Farming

Urban Development

Renewable Energy

Circular Economy

Detailed Explanation:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the concluding session of the fourth National Conference of Chief Secretaries, held in New Delhi.

This three-day event, which began, aims to enhance collaboration between the central and state governments by evolving a common development agenda.

Theme: The overarching theme for this year’s conference is:
"Promoting Entrepreneurship, Employment & Skilling - Leveraging the Demographic Dividend."

Discussions revolved around six key sectors identified for priority attention:

Manufacturing

Services

Rural Non-Farming

Urban Development

Renewable Energy

Circular Economy

7) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Department of Consumer Affairs is set to launch a “future-ready” consumer grievance redressal platform featuring the e-Jagriti app and an updated portal.

This initiative, aimed at enhancing accessibility and efficiency in resolving consumer complaints, will be unveiled on National Consumer Day, 24 December 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

The Department of Consumer Affairs is set to launch a “future-ready” consumer grievance redressal platform featuring the e-Jagriti app and an updated portal.

This initiative, aimed at enhancing accessibility and efficiency in resolving consumer complaints, will be unveiled on National Consumer Day, 24 December 2024.

User-Friendly Experience:
The new system will allow consumers to:

File complaints online.

Attend hearings virtually.

Enhanced Accessibility:
The platform is designed to address the evolving needs of consumers, especially with the rise of quick delivery services across sectors such as groceries, medicines, cosmetics, and fashion.

Efficiency in Complaint Resolution:
India’s consumer forums currently handle over 500,000 complaints annually. The revamped system aims to ensure speedy and hassle-free resolution of grievances.

8) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024), held on December 11-12, organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), marked a significant milestone in recognizing India’s rich maritime history while focusing on its future as a global maritime leader.

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal

Location: Lothal, Gujarat, with historical importance dating back to 2600 BCE.

Significance: The NMHC will showcase ancient shipbuilding methods and trade practices, highlighting India’s maritime contributions to global culture and commerce.

Detailed Explanation:

The India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024), held on December 11-12, organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), marked a significant milestone in recognizing India’s rich maritime history while focusing on its future as a global maritime leader.

Ancient Maritime Legacy: India’s maritime history dates back to the Rig Veda and the Indus Valley Civilization, where maritime trade was central to cultural exchanges and commerce.

Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

Messages of support were delivered by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Making India a Global Maritime Hub: Discussions centered on employment generation, sustainable maritime practices, and preserving India’s maritime heritage.

Exhibition and International Participation: The event featured an exhibition showcasing India’s historical maritime techniques, with over 20 international exhibitors from countries like Greece, Italy, and the UK.

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal

Location: Lothal, Gujarat, with historical importance dating back to 2600 BCE.

Significance: The NMHC will showcase ancient shipbuilding methods and trade practices, highlighting India’s maritime contributions to global culture and commerce.

9) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Switzerland has suspended the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause in the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India.

Effective from January 1, 2025, Indian companies operating in Switzerland will face a higher tax rate of 10% on dividends, up from the earlier 5%.

Historical Context:The India-Switzerland DTAA was signed on November 2, 1994, and amended in 2000 and 2010.

Detailed Explanation:

Switzerland has suspended the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause in the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India.

Effective from January 1, 2025, Indian companies operating in Switzerland will face a higher tax rate of 10% on dividends, up from the earlier 5%.

Reason for Suspension:The decision follows a 2023 Supreme Court of India ruling that the MFN clause does not automatically apply when a country joins the OECD unless a notification under Section 90 of the Income Tax Act is issued.

India-Switzerland Trade Partnership:Bilateral trade in FY 2023-24: $23.76 billion, with imports from Switzerland accounting for $21.24 billion.

Switzerland is a major trading partner within the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

10) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled ambitious economic plans at the World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) 2024, positioning the state to become India’s first $1 trillion economy by 2028-2030.

The state’s GDP is currently ₹42.7 lakh crore (approximately $500 billion).

A council has been formed to accelerate the state's economic growth, with input from top CEOs and industry leaders, including Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran.

Detailed Explanation:

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled ambitious economic plans at the World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) 2024, positioning the state to become India’s first $1 trillion economy by 2028-2030.

The state’s GDP is currently ₹42.7 lakh crore (approximately $500 billion).

A council has been formed to accelerate the state's economic growth, with input from top CEOs and industry leaders, including Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran.

The state plans to increase its renewable energy share to 52% by 2030.

Environmental and Social Initiatives:Water Conservation and forest cover improvement are key environmental goals.

Maharashtra is actively contributing to India’s poverty reduction efforts, with 250 million people lifted out of poverty.

11) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Francois Bayrou, a centrist ally, as Prime Minister on December 13, 2024, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government.

Bayrou, aged 73, is a veteran politician and a crucial partner in Macron's centrist alliance.

He has been a key figure in French politics for decades and is known for his political experience.

Detailed Explanation:

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Francois Bayrou, a centrist ally, as Prime Minister on December 13, 2024, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government.

Bayrou, aged 73, is a veteran politician and a crucial partner in Macron's centrist alliance.

He has been a key figure in French politics for decades and is known for his political experience.

Bayrou was recently cleared of embezzlement charges related to European Parliament funds.

He is tasked with navigating France’s political crisis, as there is no single majority party in the National Assembly.

His priority will be to pass a special law to roll over the 2024 budget.

A battle over the 2025 budget legislation looms early next year, following pushback from Parliament that led to the fall of the previous government under Prime Minister Michel Barnier.

12) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a ₹5 crore cash reward for Chennai-based Grandmaster D Gukesh after his historic achievement of becoming the youngest World Chess Champion.

Detailed Explanation:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a ₹5 crore cash reward for Chennai-based Grandmaster D Gukesh after his historic achievement of becoming the youngest World Chess Champion.

Youngest World Chess Champion

At just 18 years old, D Gukesh became the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren of China in the final game of the 14-match series in Singapore.

Gukesh secured 7.5 points to Ding's 6.5, clinching victory in the classical time-control format.

Prize and Recognition

As the winner, Gukesh will receive USD 1.3 million (₹11.03 crore) from the tournament's USD 2.5 million prize pool.

Chief Minister Stalin's Cash Reward: Announced as recognition for the pride and joy Gukesh’s victory has brought to the nation.

Historical Context

Gukesh is the second Indian to win the World Chess Championship, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Hockey India League (HIL) has secured a landmark three-year media rights deal with Sony Sports Network (SSN), starting with the 2024-25 season, set to begin on December 28, 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

The Hockey India League (HIL) has secured a landmark three-year media rights deal with Sony Sports Network (SSN), starting with the 2024-25 season, set to begin on December 28, 2024.

This agreement positions SSN as the exclusive broadcaster of one of the premier franchise-based hockey leagues in the world.

Live telecast in multiple languages and formats:

English: Sony Sports Ten 1 (SD & HD)

Hindi: Sony Sports Ten 3 (SD & HD)

Tamil & Telugu: Sony Sports Ten 4 (SD & HD)

Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer at SSN, emphasized the growing popularity of hockey in India, fueled by the national team's Olympic successes.

The partnership aligns with Sony’s vision of becoming the “Home of Hockey”, further diversifying its sports portfolio.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has signed an MoU with Wipro GE Healthcare to establish an AI Health Innovations Hub, marking a major step in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for healthcare advancements.

Detailed Explanation:

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has signed an MoU with Wipro GE Healthcare to establish an AI Health Innovations Hub, marking a major step in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for healthcare advancements.

Enhanced Healthcare Delivery: Developing products and solutions for precise diagnosis, innovative treatment protocols, and real-time patient data tracking.

Focus Areas: Special emphasis on cardiology, oncology, and neurology.

Wipro GE Healthcare will contribute $1 million over five years to co-develop and test AI-enabled systems and solutions.

Wipro GE Healthcare: Technology partner providing AI-based systems.

AIIMS Delhi: Clinical partner offering real-world clinical inputs, research, and evaluation.

15) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

ICICI Bank's Board of Directors has approved the sale of a 19% stake in its associate company, ICICI Merchant Services Private Ltd (IMSPL), subject to necessary regulatory approvals.

Detailed Explanation:

ICICI Bank's Board of Directors has approved the sale of a 19% stake in its associate company, ICICI Merchant Services Private Ltd (IMSPL), subject to necessary regulatory approvals.

Transaction Details:The stake will be sold to First Data Holdings 1 (Netherlands) BV, a global leader in electronic commerce and payment services.

The transaction is expected to generate ₹160 crore to ₹190 crore in funds for ICICI Bank.

Impact on IMSPL’s Status:After the completion of the sale, IMSPL will cease to be an associate of ICICI Bank.

Approval and Timeline:The sale is contingent upon receiving requisite regulatory and statutory approvals.

The transaction is expected to be completed before June 30, 2025.

16) Answer: E

Vijay Diwas 2024 is observed on the 16th of December 2024.

Vijay Diwas is celebrated for the remembrance of the victory of the Indian ArmedForces in ‘Operation: Vijay’ against the infiltrating Pakistani troops.

Rich tributes are given to the Armed Soldiers who lost their lives in the war.

Pakistani troops attacked 11 Indian airfields that proved the war on December 3, 1971.

At that time Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Pakistan’s star all-rounder, Imad Wasim, announced his retirement from international cricket marking the end of a remarkable nine-year career.

International Debut: Imad made his debut for Pakistan in May 2015, in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Lahore.

Matches Played: He represented Pakistan in 130 international matches across ODIs and T20Is.

Detailed Explanation:

Pakistan’s star all-rounder, Imad Wasim, announced his retirement from international cricket marking the end of a remarkable nine-year career.

International Debut: Imad made his debut for Pakistan in May 2015, in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Lahore.

Matches Played: He represented Pakistan in 130 international matches across ODIs and T20Is.

T20I Stats: Imad scored 554 runs and claimed 73 wickets in 75 T20I matches.

Champions Trophy 2017: He was a key player in Pakistan’s victorious Champions Trophy campaign in 2017.

Comeback in 2024: After initially retiring, Imad made a return to international cricket, earning a spot in the T20 World Cup squad following a standout performance in the Pakistan Super League.

18) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Tech giant Google announced a partnership with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to bring quality education to far corners of India.

The channels, covering 29 Indian languages, including Indian Sign Language, will offer educational content in engaging and accessible formats, empowering students, parents, and teachers across the country.

Detailed Explanation:

Tech giant Google announced a partnership with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to bring quality education to far corners of India.

YouTube Channels for Education : As part of the partnership, NCERT will launch multiple YouTube channels that are aligned to the curriculum of grades 1 to 12, over the coming months.

The channels, covering 29 Indian languages, including Indian Sign Language, will offer educational content in engaging and accessible formats, empowering students, parents, and teachers across the country.

Collaboration with NPTEL : In addition, Google also announced a collaboration with the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning to roll out Credentialled Courses.

This will be available through the NPTEL-SWAYAM website. Notably, the website is operated by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the NPTEL.

19) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Space Kidz, a Chennai-based space startup, is planning an all-women scientific lunar mission targeting September 2026.

The mission will involve girl students from classes 8 and 9 across 108 countries working alongside Space Kidz's team.

The satellite will have a payload of 80 kg, including an orbiter, lander, and propulsion module, with a goal of crash-landing on the moon’s surface.

If successful, it will be the first private player from India to conduct a mission to the lunar surface.

Detailed Explanation:

Space Kidz, a Chennai-based space startup, is planning an all-women scientific lunar mission targeting September 2026.

The mission will involve girl students from classes 8 and 9 across 108 countries working alongside Space Kidz's team.

The satellite will have a payload of 80 kg, including an orbiter, lander, and propulsion module, with a goal of crash-landing on the moon’s surface.

If successful, it will be the first private player from India to conduct a mission to the lunar surface.

Collaboration and Partnerships:The mission, named ShakthiSAT, will involve collaboration with global players and educational institutions, aiming to train 12,000 girls in satellite technology.

IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) is supporting the mission for academic assistance.

Launch and Training:The launch vehicle for the mission is likely to be India’s PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), which can carry up to 1,750 kg.

Government and International Support:The project has received backing from NITI Aayog, Hexaware Technologies, Ananth Technologies, and Lumina Datamatics.

Mission Timeline and Goals:The mission is targeted for launch in September 2026, with a preparatory start in January 2025.

The mission aims to spread the Indian ethos of "VasudhaivaKutumbakam" (the world is one family).

20) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The United States (US) announced a new military aid package of US$500 million for Ukraine to support its defense against Russia’s ongoing attacks.

Previous Aid Packages: The announcement follows two other large security assistance packages:

A US$988 million package.

A US$725 million package.

Detailed Explanation:

The United States (US) announced a new military aid package of US$500 million for Ukraine to support its defense against Russia’s ongoing attacks.

Contents of the Aid Package: The package includes:

Ammunition for HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems).

Artillery ammunition and drones.

Armored vehicles.

Protection equipment against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear attacks (CBRN).

Other military equipment.

The aid will be drawn from U.S. military stockpiles.

The aid package comes amid concerns about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine following the election of President-elect Donald Trump, who has expressed intentions to potentially reduce military aid to Ukraine once he assumes office in January 2025.

Previous Aid Packages: The announcement follows two other large security assistance packages:

A US$988 million package.

A US$725 million package.