Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 20th 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 bank provides business banking clients with specialized green loans to fund solar and environmentally friendly projects?

(a) IndusInd bank

(b) Federal bank

(c) South Indian bank

(d) HDFC bank

(e) ICICI bank

2) A significant decision pertaining to the 5 rupee currency has been jointly taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Central Government.Which of the following statements is incorrect?

(a) The thicker 5 rupee coins have become scarce in circulation, and their production has been stopped, leaving only brass coins in circulation.

(b) The material used in these coins is repurposed to make blades, leading to a significant illegal blade business worth crores. A single coin can produce 4–5 blades.

(c) Thicker 5 rupee coins are no longer being produced, and only brass 5 rupee coins will remain in circulation.

(d) There is no need to deposit thicker coins in the bank.

(e) All are true

3) As per a report, the National Housing Bank (NHB) and Aditya Birla Housing Finance (ABHFL) collaborate on the PM Awas Yojana. ABHFL has made house loans up to ₹25 lakh available to families earning how many lakhs a year in an effort to increase access to homeownership for marginalized groups?

(a) Rs.2lakh

(b) Rs.3lakh

(c) Rs.4lakh

(d) Rs.5lakh

(e) Rs.1lakh

4) With which bank has Reliance Nippon Life Insurance (RNLI), a division of indebted Reliance Capital (RCAP), started plans to form a bancassurance partnership?

(a) IndusInd bank

(b) Federal bank

(c) South Indian bank

(d) HDFC bank

(e) ICICI bank

5) A co-branded premium metal credit card is being offered by Times Internet and ICICI Bank.This card belongs to _______platform

(a) Mastercard

(b) Visa

(c) RuPay

(d) Maestro

(e) Discover

6) According to a blog post by World Bank economists, India became the largest recipient of remittances in 2024, with an expected influx of how many billions of dollars?

(a) $125billion

(b) $126billion

(c) $127billion

(d) $129billion

(e) $120billion

7) For the fiscal year 2025–2026, the Indian government is expected to set a target for the budget deficit of what percentage of GDP, indicating a shift towards fiscal restraint while preserving economic expansion?

(a) 4.2%

(b) 4.1%

(c) 4.3%

(d) 4.4%

(e) 4.5%

8) According to India Ratings and Research, the country's economic growth is expected to reach what percentage in FY26, up from 6.4% in FY25, due to a stronger investment climate?

(a) 6.5%

(b) 6.6%

(c) 6.7%

(d) 6.8%

(e) 6.9%

9) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has tightened restrictions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that want to list through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). The Offer for Sale (OFS) portion of an IPO cannot exceed what percentage of the total issue size?

(a) 10%

(b) 15%

(c) 20%

(d) 25%

(e) 30%

10) The top 200 self-made entrepreneurs in India are honored on the IDFC First Private Banking and Hurun India list for 2024, which highlights their revolutionary contributions to the country's economy. Which company is at the top of the list?

(a) Dmart

(b) Swiggy

(c) Zomato

(d) Zepto

(e) Nykaa

11) Recently(Dec’24),Lt Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena inaugurated the country's longest golf course in Dwarka, marking a significant advance in sports facilities in the national capital. How many holes are there on the golf course in Sector 24, Dwarka?

(a) 15

(b) 16

(c) 17

(d) 18

(e) 19

12) Which state's chief minister declared that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be enacted in the state starting in January 2025, making it the first Indian state to do so after gaining independence?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Karnataka

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Gujarat

(e) Uttarakhand

13) In which city did Infosys open a cutting-edge development center, a crucial step towards transforming the region into an IT hub?

(a) Gandhinagar

(b) Kolkata

(c) Hyderabad

(d) Bhopal

(e) Kochi

14) With the help of the Bihar government's Transport Department, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. has set up how many automated driving license test tracks?

(a) 4

(b) 3

(c) 5

(d) 6

(e) 8

15) How many border villages in the districts of Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipore that are close to the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir have seen improved connections via Bharti Airtel and the Indian Army?

(a) 5

(b) 6

(c) 7

(d) 8

(e) 9

16) Which business has joined forces with Sastra Deemed University to initiate the BEST Center initiative's second phase, which aims to improve India's technical workforce?

(a) Mahindra

(b) TATA

(c) Bajaj

(d) TVS

(e) Hyundai

17) In New Delhi, PepsiCo India launched the RevolutioNari Conference and Awards 2024, reaffirming its dedication to women's development in agriculture. How many female farmers were chosen from nominations around the country to receive recognition for their outstanding contributions to agriculture?

(a) 5

(b) 15

(c) 12

(d) 8

(e) 10

18) At which iteration of Bhutanese National Day ceremonies in Thimphu did Arun Kapur get the Red Scarf and title of 'Dasho', indicating remarkable achievement?

(a) 115th

(b) 116th

(c) 117th

(d) 118th

(e) 119th

19) How many writers and poets from different Indian languages were honored with the Sahitya Akademi Awards 2024 for their outstanding contributions?

(a) 21

(b) 20

(c) 22

(d) 23

(e) 25

20) Recently(Dec’24), Rama Mohan Rao Amara became the MD of SBI. In which year did Amara start working as a probationary officer with SBI?

(a) 1991

(b) 1990

(c) 1992

(d) 1993

(e) 1994

21) The Managing Director (MD) and CEO of Brookfield India Real Estate Trust, Alok Aggarwal, has been named the new Chairman of the Indian REITs Association (IRA). In which year IRA was established?

(a) 2022

(b) 2021

(c) 2023

(d) 2020

(e) 2019

22) Recent news, R. Ashwin, India's top all-round player, accomplished a noteworthy feat at the MCA Stadium in Pune during the second Test match against which country?

(a) Pakistan

(b) New Zealand

(c) Sri Lanka

(d) West Indies

(e) Australia

23) When was the International Human Solidarity Day observed?

(a) December 16

(b) December 18

(c) December 19

(d) December 20

(e) December 17

24) Where was the Valley of Flowers National Park located?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Karnataka

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Gujarat

(e) Uttarakhand

25) How many member countries are there in the World Bank so far?

(a) 188

(b) 189

(c) 187

(d) 186

(e) 190

Answers :

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, has joined hands with Ecofy, India’s first green-only non-banking financial company (NBFC) supported by Eversource Capital, to provide innovative financing solutions for MSMEs investing in commercial rooftop solar installations.

Green Loan Schemes: Federal Bank offers dedicated loans to finance solar and eco-friendly projects for Business Banking customers.

Detailed Explanation:

Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, has joined hands with Ecofy, India’s first green-only non-banking financial company (NBFC) supported by Eversource Capital, to provide innovative financing solutions for MSMEs investing in commercial rooftop solar installations.

This collaboration is among the first co-lending initiatives in India designed specifically to cater to the solar financing needs of MSMEs.

Rooftop Solar Financing Target: The program aims to finance 3,600 kW of rooftop solar installations annually, helping MSMEs reduce over 2,500 tons of CO2 emissions per year.

Decarbonisation and Cost Benefits: MSMEs, predominantly operating during daytime, benefit from reduced electricity costs and contribute to India's climate goals.

Green Loan Schemes: Federal Bank offers dedicated loans to finance solar and eco-friendly projects for Business Banking customers.

Focus on MSMEs: MSME loans constitute over 20% of the bank's total loan book, reflecting its active engagement in supporting this sector.

Expertise in Solarisation: Ecofy has successfully solarized residential and commercial rooftops over the past two years.

Partnerships with Top OEMs: Collaborations with leading brands such as Tata Power, Waaree, Luminous, and Mahindra Solarize enable effective solutions.

2) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

The Central Government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have jointly made an important decision regarding the 5 rupee coin.

Detailed Explanation:

The Central Government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have jointly made an important decision regarding the 5 rupee coin.

A particular type of this coin is being withdrawn from circulation, primarily due to specific challenges and concerns.

With the advancement of Digital India, more people are using payment apps like GPay and PhonePe, reducing the need for carrying small denominations like coins.

Many find it inconvenient to carry a lot of change.

Coins of 1 rupee to 20 rupees are currently in circulation, with various types of 5 rupee coins, including those made of brass and thicker metals.

The thicker 5 rupee coins have become scarce in circulation, and their production has been stopped, leaving only brass coins in circulation.

The primary reason is their misuse.

The material used in these coins is repurposed to make blades, leading to a significant illegal blade businessworth crores.

A single coin can produce 4–5 blades.

The Central Government decides on the annual production of coins and gives instructions to the RBI.

Any withdrawal or issuance of coins or currency requires government approval.

Thicker 5 rupee coins are no longer being produced, and only brass 5 rupee coins will remain in circulation.

There is no need to deposit thicker coins in the bank.

3) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Aditya Birla Housing Finance (ABHFL) has entered into a partnership with the National Housing Bank (NHB) to advance the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) vision of 'Housing for All'.

Loan Offerings:ABHFL has introduced home loan options of up to ₹25 lakh for families earning ₹3 lakh annually, aiming to make homeownership more accessible to underserved populations.

Detailed Explanation:

Aditya Birla Housing Finance (ABHFL) has entered into a partnership with the National Housing Bank (NHB) to advance the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) vision of 'Housing for All'.

Loan Offerings:ABHFL has introduced home loan options of up to ₹25 lakh for families earning ₹3 lakh annually, aiming to make homeownership more accessible to underserved populations.

About Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):

Launched in 2015, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing to urban poor by 2022. The scheme offers interest subsidies on housing loans, with rates varying based on income categories:

EWS and LIG: Interest subsidy of 6.5% for loans up to ₹6 lakh.

MIG-I: Interest subsidy of 4% for loans up to ₹9 lakh.

MIG-II: Interest subsidy of 3% for loans up to ₹12 lakh.

4) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Reliance Nippon Life Insurance (RNLI), a subsidiary of debt-ridden Reliance Capital (RCAP), has initiated discussions with IndusInd Bank to establish a bancassurance partnership.

This development follows the acquisition of RCAP by IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL), the parent entity of IndusInd Bank, and the nearing completion of RCAP’s resolution process.

Detailed Explanation:

Reliance Nippon Life Insurance (RNLI), a subsidiary of debt-ridden Reliance Capital (RCAP), has initiated discussions with IndusInd Bank to establish a bancassurance partnership.

This development follows the acquisition of RCAP by IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL), the parent entity of IndusInd Bank, and the nearing completion of RCAP’s resolution process.

Acquisition by IIHL:

IIHL, part of the Hinduja Group, won the bid to acquire RCAP and its subsidiaries.

The acquisition is expected to conclude by January 2025, following necessary approvals and procedures.

Focus on Bancassurance:

RNLI is in active dialogue with IndusInd Bank to finalize a win-win bancassurance deal for all stakeholders.

Bancassurance will enable RNLI to expand its reach by leveraging IndusInd Bank’s extensive customer base of 41 million through 3,040 branches and 3,011 ATMs across India

5) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Times Internet, in collaboration with ICICI Bank, has unveiled the Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card, an ultra-premium offering tailored for high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and affluent customers.

Powered by Visa, this card combines luxury, innovation, and tradition with a host of exclusive privileges and benefits.

Detailed Explanation:

Times Internet, in collaboration with ICICI Bank, has unveiled the Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card, an ultra-premium offering tailored for high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and affluent customers.

Powered by Visa, this card combines luxury, innovation, and tradition with a host of exclusive privileges and benefits.

Metallic Card with Historic Design:
The card features a metallic build and incorporates historic printing plates from The Times of India, representing innovation, tradition, and legacy.

Target Audience:
Designed for India’s affluent segment, the card aims to redefine luxury and provide exclusive lifestyle experiences.

6) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

India emerged as the largest recipient of remittances in 2024, with an estimated inflow of $129 billion, according to a blog post by World Bank economists.

India was followed by Mexico, China, Philippines, and Pakistan.

The surge was fueled by a recovery in job markets in high-income countries, particularly those in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

Detailed Explanation:

India emerged as the largest recipient of remittances in 2024, with an estimated inflow of $129 billion, according to a blog post by World Bank economists.

India was followed by Mexico, China, Philippines, and Pakistan.

The surge was fueled by a recovery in job markets in high-income countries, particularly those in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Remittance Growth:

Global remittance inflows grew by 5.8% in 2024, compared to 1.2% in 2023.

Remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are expected to reach $685 billion.

South Asia’s Dominance:

The region recorded the highest increase in remittance flows at 11.8%, driven by strong contributions from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Remittances vs. FDI:

In the past decade:

Remittances increased by 57%.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) declined by 41%.

The gap between remittances and FDI is anticipated to widen further in 2024.

7) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Indian government is anticipated to set a fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP for the financial year 2025-26, signaling a move towards fiscal discipline while maintaining economic growth.

This target is expected to be announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, scheduled for February 1, 2024.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian government is anticipated to set a fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP for the financial year 2025-26, signaling a move towards fiscal discipline while maintaining economic growth.

This target is expected to be announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, scheduled for February 1, 2024.

Current and Target Deficits:

FY24 fiscal deficit target: 5.9% of GDP.

FY26 target: 4.5% of GDP.

Proposed FY26 target: 4.4%, reflecting sharper deficit reduction efforts.

Economic Priorities:

Focus on public investment in infrastructure, health, and education.

Balancing growth momentum amid global economic uncertainties.

Revenue and Expenditure Management:

Revenue strategies:

Increased tax compliance.

Sustained GST collection growth.

Privatisation initiatives.

Expenditure focus:

Capital investments to drive long-term economic growth.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India Ratings and Research has projected a positive economic trajectory for India in FY26, with growth, investments, and fiscal consolidation as key highlights.

India Ratings and Research has projected the country's economic growth to accelerate to 6.6% in FY26, up from 6.4% for FY25, supported by a stronger investment climate.

Detailed Explanation:

India Ratings and Research has projected a positive economic trajectory for India in FY26, with growth, investments, and fiscal consolidation as key highlights.

India Ratings and Research has projected the country's economic growth to accelerate to 6.6% in FY26, up from 6.4% for FY25, supported by a stronger investment climate.

This growth is expected to be driven by a rise in gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), which is anticipated to increase by 7.2% in FY26, up from 6.7% in FY25.

Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) is forecasted to grow at 6.9% in FY26, a slight improvement over the 6.7% in FY25, but still below the pre-pandemic levels.

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced tighter regulations for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) seeking to list through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in order to safeguard investor interests and ensure that only financially sound companies access the public capital markets.

The Offer for Sale (OFS) portion of the IPO cannot exceed 20% of the total issue size.

Detailed Explanation:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced tighter regulations for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) seeking to list through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in order to safeguard investor interests and ensure that only financially sound companies access the public capital markets.

An SME must have an operating profit of at least ₹1 crore from operations in at least two of the previous three financial years to be eligible for an IPO.

Funds raised through an SME IPO cannot be used to repay loans to promoters, promoter groups, or related parties.

The Offer for Sale (OFS) portion of the IPO cannot exceed 20% of the total issue size.

Selling shareholders are not allowed to sell more than 50% of their holdings.

The funds allocated for General Corporate Purpose in an SME IPO are capped at 15% of the issue size or ₹10 crore, whichever is lower.

The allocation for non-institutional investors will be determined by a "draw of lots", similar to the system used for retail investors.

10) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The IDFC First Private Banking and Hurun India list for 2024 celebrates India’s top 200 self-made entrepreneurs, showcasing their transformative contributions to the nation’s economy.

Top Entrepreneurs:

Radhakishan Damani (DMart): Retained the top spot.

DMart's market valuation surged 44% to ₹3.4 lakh crore.

Deepinder Goyal (Zomato): Ranked second.

Zomato's valuation rose 190% to ₹2.51 lakh crore.

Sriharsha Majety and Nandan Reddy (Swiggy): Ranked third.

Swiggy's valuation scaled to ₹1.01 lakh crore.

Detailed Explanation:

The IDFC First Private Banking and Hurun India list for 2024 celebrates India’s top 200 self-made entrepreneurs, showcasing their transformative contributions to the nation’s economy.

Top Entrepreneurs:

Radhakishan Damani (DMart): Retained the top spot.

DMart's market valuation surged 44% to ₹3.4 lakh crore.

Deepinder Goyal (Zomato): Ranked second.

Zomato's valuation rose 190% to ₹2.51 lakh crore.

Sriharsha Majety and Nandan Reddy (Swiggy): Ranked third.

Swiggy's valuation scaled to ₹1.01 lakh crore.

Rising Stars:

Zepto: Achieved 14th place with a 259% surge in valuation to ₹41,800 crore.

Founders Kaivalya Vohra (21) and Aadit Palicha (22) are the youngest entrepreneurs on the list.

Cumulative Impact:

Combined valuation of the 200 companies: ₹36 lakh crore, equivalent to Maharashtra's GDP.

Top Sectors:

Financial Services: 50 companies.

Healthcare and Retail: 25 companies each.

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The inauguration of the country's longest golf course in Dwarka by Lt Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena marks a significant development in sports infrastructure for the national capital.

Location & Size: The 18-hole golf course is located in Sector 24, Dwarka, spanning 7,377 yards and covering 158 acres.

Detailed Explanation:

The inauguration of the country's longest golf course in Dwarka by Lt Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena marks a significant development in sports infrastructure for the national capital.

LG Saxena emphasized the importance of the Fit India Movement, which has been instrumental in promoting sports across the country and contributing to the success of Indian athletes in international events.

Location & Size: The 18-hole golf course is located in Sector 24, Dwarka, spanning 7,377 yards and covering 158 acres.

Facilities:

Longest driving range in the country with 375 yards and 52 bays.

Use of North Shore SLT grass for fairways, which is the first of its kind in India.

A clubhouse offering restaurant, snack kiosks, cafeteria, conference hall, pro-shops, swimming pool, sauna, and more.

Golf Academy being established as a center of excellence.

Cost & Features: The project cost is approximately ₹250 crore. It features an automatic irrigation system for water conservation, underground drainage systems, and a storm water recharge well.

12) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be implemented in the state from January 2025, making it the first state in India to do so post-Independence.

Detailed Explanation:

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be implemented in the state from January 2025, making it the first state in India to do so post-Independence.

This move is expected to bring significant changes to the legal framework in Uttarakhand, with a focus on unifying personal laws for citizens across different communities.

Announcement & Implementation Timeline: The UCC will be enforced in January 2025 after all necessary preparations have been completed.

Legislative Process:

A five-member expert committee, chaired by retired judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, was formed to guide the process.

The Uniform Civil Code Bill 2024 was passed by the State Legislative Assembly on 7 February 2024.

The bill received Presidential assent on 12 March 2024.

UCC in the Constitution: While UCC is a part of the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution, it is non-justiciable, meaning it is not enforceable by the courts.

13) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Infosys, one of India's leading IT services companies, inaugurated a cutting-edge development centre in New Town, Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in the region's transformation into an IT hub.

Facility Details

Investment: Built at a cost of ₹426 crore.

Size and Capacity: Spans 50 acres with the capacity to employ 4,000 IT professionals.

Technological Focus: Innovation in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Detailed Explanation:

Infosys, one of India's leading IT services companies, inaugurated a cutting-edge development centre in New Town, Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in the region's transformation into an IT hub.

Facility Details

Investment: Built at a cost of ₹426 crore.

Size and Capacity: Spans 50 acres with the capacity to employ 4,000 IT professionals.

Technological Focus: Innovation in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Sustainability Features

Green Building Standards:

Energy-efficient cooling systems.

Smart building automation.

Rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling.

Aligns with Infosys’ broader commitment to sustainable development.

14) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. has partnered with the Transport Department, Government of Bihar, to establish five automated driving license test tracks in Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia, and Saran.

Detailed Explanation:

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. has partnered with the Transport Department, Government of Bihar, to establish five automated driving license test tracks in Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia, and Saran.

Automation: The test tracks utilize high-definition cameras and integrated IT systems to conduct assessments with minimal human intervention.

Standardized Evaluation: Tests adhere to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), ensuring rigorous skill assessment and objective, automated results.

First Driving Institute in Bihar: Established the Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR) in Aurangabad in 2018.

Existing Automated Tracks:

Aurangabad (2020)

Patna (2021)

Automated 27 driving test tracks across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Haryana.

Additional 17 tracks under development, including 12 in Uttar Pradesh and 5 in Bihar.

Target: 44 automated test tracks across India.

15) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Bharti Airtel has collaborated with the Indian Army to improve connectivity in around 7 border villages of Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipore districts near the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir.

The initiative is part of the PM Vibrant Village Programme and enhances network services in remote villages and military bases.

Detailed Explanation:

Bharti Airtel has collaborated with the Indian Army to improve connectivity in around 7 border villages of Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipore districts near the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir.

The initiative is part of the PM Vibrant Village Programme and enhances network services in remote villages and military bases.

Deployment of Mobile Towers:
Airtel has installed 15 mobile towers in regions like Keran, Machhal, Tangdhar, Gurez, and Uri, ensuring telecom access for locals and soldiers.

Unique Position:
Airtel is the only private telecom operator serving these challenging terrains.

Enhanced network services in remote military bases such as Galwan River and Daulat Beg Oldie, India’s northernmost military post.

16) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Bajaj Auto Limited has partnered with Sastra Deemed University to launch the second phase of the Bajaj Engineering Skill Training (BEST) Centre initiative, aiming to strengthen India's technical workforce.

Detailed Explanation:

Bajaj Auto Limited has partnered with Sastra Deemed University to launch the second phase of the Bajaj Engineering Skill Training (BEST) Centre initiative, aiming to strengthen India's technical workforce.

Success of Phase 1:

Trained over 150 students in advanced manufacturing techniques.

Focus of Phase 2:

Specialized training in electronics manufacturing, firmware development, systems validation, and e-mobility.

Targeting 500+ engineering and diploma graduates, with priority for students from tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

17) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

PepsiCo India reinforced its commitment to women empowerment in agriculture by launching the RevolutioNari Conference and Awards 2024 in New Delhi.

Recognition: 10 women farmers were honored for their exceptional contributions to agriculture, selected from nominations nationwide.

Detailed Explanation:

PepsiCo India reinforced its commitment to women empowerment in agriculture by launching the RevolutioNari Conference and Awards 2024 in New Delhi.

This initiative, grounded in PepsiCo India’s philosophy of "Partnership in Progress", recognizes and celebrates the achievements of women farmers across India.

Objective: Empower 1 million women in agriculture across India by 2026.

Launch of the RevolutioNari Anthem, symbolizing PepsiCo India’s dedication to women empowerment.

Recognition: 10 women farmers were honored for their exceptional contributions to agriculture, selected from nominations nationwide.

Jury: A panel of experts led by Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, evaluated entries across five categories.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Arun Kapur, a renowned educationist with remarkable contributions to the education sector in India, Bhutan, and Oman, was honored by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

At the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations in Thimphu, he was conferred the Red Scarf and the title of ‘Dasho’, signifying an extraordinary achievement.

Detailed Explanation:

Arun Kapur, a renowned educationist with remarkable contributions to the education sector in India, Bhutan, and Oman, was honored by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

At the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations in Thimphu, he was conferred the Red Scarf and the title of ‘Dasho’, signifying an extraordinary achievement.

Award: Red Scarf (Bura Marp) and ceremonial sword (Patang).

Significance: These honors, along with the title ‘Dasho’, are traditionally reserved for senior Bhutanese officials, making it a rare distinction for a non-resident.

Druk Thuksey (2019): Acknowledged for his immense contributions to Bhutanese education.

19) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Sahitya Akademi Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable contributions of 21 writers and poets across various Indian languages.

This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding works in novels, poetry, short stories, essays, plays, literary criticism, and research.

Detailed Explanation:

The Sahitya Akademi Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable contributions of 21 writers and poets across various Indian languages.

This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding works in novels, poetry, short stories, essays, plays, literary criticism, and research.

Diverse Categories:

8 Poetry Collections

3 Novels

2 Short Story Collections

3 Essays

3 Literary Criticism Works

1 Play

1 Research Work

Notable Winners:

Hindi: Gagan Gill for her poetry collection Main Jab Tak Aai Bahar.

English: Easterine Kire for her novel Spirit Nights.

Kashmiri: Sohan Kaul for her novel Psychiatric Ward.

Punjabi: Paul Kaur for her poetry book Sun Gunvanta Sun Budhivanta: Itihaasnama Punjab.

Poetry Winners:

Malayalam: K Jayakumar

Manipuri: HaobamSatyabati Devi

Gujarati: Dileep Jhaveri

Assamese: Sameer Tanti

Rajasthani: Mukut Maniraj

Sanskrit: Dipak Kumar Sharma

Novel Winners:

Bodo: Aron Raja for Swrni Thakhai.

Short Story Winners:

Nepali: Yuva Baral for Chhichimira.

Sindhi: Hundraj Balwani for Purzo.

Essays:

Konkani: Mukesh Thali

Maithili: Mahendra Malangia

Odia: Baishnab Charan Samai

Recognition: Winners receive a plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.

Ceremony Date: Awards to be presented on March 8, 2025.

20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Rama Mohan Rao Amara as the Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a term of three years, effective from the date he assumes charge, or until further orders.

Amara began his career with SBI in 1991 as a probationary officer.

Detailed Explanation:

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Rama Mohan Rao Amara as the Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a term of three years, effective from the date he assumes charge, or until further orders.

Tenure: The appointment is for three years, with a possible extension based on a performance review, until he reaches the age of superannuation on 29 February 2028.

Amara began his career with SBI in 1991 as a probationary officer.

Over the years, he has gained significant expertise in credit, risk, and international banking, with stints in Singapore and the US.

Notably, he served as CEO of SBI’s Chicago branch and later as President and CEO ofSBI California.

21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Indian REITs Association (IRA) has appointed Alok Aggarwal, the Managing Director (MD) and CEO of Brookfield India Real Estate Trust, as its new Chairman.

IRA: Established in 2023, the Indian REITs Association is a non-profit trade organization that focuses on promoting the REITs sector in India.

Detailed Explanation:

The Indian REITs Association (IRA) has appointed Alok Aggarwal, the Managing Director (MD) and CEO of Brookfield India Real Estate Trust, as its new Chairman.

Appointment: Alok Aggarwal has been appointed as the new Chairman of IRA, a role in which he will support the growth and development of the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) sector in India.

IRA: Established in 2023, the Indian REITs Association is a non-profit trade organization that focuses on promoting the REITs sector in India.

22) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

India's premier all-rounder, R. Ashwin, achieved a significant milestone during the second Test against New Zealand at the MCA Stadium in Pune.

Detailed Explanation:

India's premier all-rounder, R. Ashwin, achieved a significant milestone during the second Test against New Zealand at the MCA Stadium in Pune.

On Day 1, Ashwin claimed the wickets of Tom Latham and Will Young, surpassing Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon to become the highest wicket-taker in the history of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC).

WTC Wicket-Taker Standings

R. Ashwin: 188 wickets in 39 matches.

Nathan Lyon: 187 wickets in 43 matches.

Pat Cummins: 175 wickets in 42 matches.

Jasprit Bumrah: 124 wickets in 30 matches (seventh place).

Second-highest wicket-taker for India, behind Anil Kumble (619 wickets).

23) Answer: D

International Human Solidarity Day is observed on the 20th of December 2024.

On December 22, 2005, the UN General Assembly recognized solidarity as one of the fundamental and enduring values of the twenty-first century by passing Revolution 60/209.

The idea of solidarity was propagated through the creation of the World Solidarity Fund to end poverty and the declaration of International Human Solidarity Day.

24) Answer: E

About Uttarakhand:

Capitals: Winter: Dehradun, Summer: Bhararisen

Chief Minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami

Governor: Gurmit Singh

National parks: Nanda Devi National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park, Rajaji National Park, Gangotri National Park, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

Capitals: Winter: Dehradun, Summer: Bhararisen

Chief Minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami

Governor: Gurmit Singh

National parks: Nanda Devi National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park, Rajaji National Park, Gangotri National Park, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

25) Answer: B

About World Bank:

Established: July 7, 1944

Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S.

Membership: 189 countries

President: Ajay Banga