Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 20th June 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) In June 2024, What was the estimated nominal GDP of India in 2023–24, at current prices, based on the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation website?

(a) Rs 295.36 lakh crore

(b) Rs 285.36 lakh crore

(c) Rs 275.36 lakh crore

(d) Rs 265.36 lakh crore

(e) Rs 255.36 lakh crore

2) On which date is the global awareness-raising event for sickle cell disease in humans observed as World Sickle Cell Day?

(a) June 18

(b) June 19

(c) June 20

(d) June 21

(e) June 17

3) The Central government is expected to declare that India has adopted the "Pillar-2" tax regime, which is based on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). In order to prevent profit shifting, the Pillar 2-GloBE Rules, which establish a worldwide minimum tax for "multinational enterprises" (MNEs), make sure that these businesses maintain a minimum Effective Tax Rate (ETR) of what percentage in every country where they do business?

(a) 12%

(b) 10%

(c) 15%

(d) 18%

(e) 20%

4) Which department has organized the biggest public service event across several locations in India, earning a place in the esteemed Limca Book of Records?

(a) NHAI

(b) Indian Railways

(c) DRDO

(d) NTPC

(e) CBI

5) With the help of Miyawaki Plantations, NHAI will increase the amount of greenery alongside national highways. Which strategy, known as the Miyawaki method, will be put into practice by NHAI to quickly establish dense native forests?

(a) Japanese

(b) German

(c) Chinese

(d) Spanish

(e) Russian

6) Which of the following ministries is focusing on transformative developments for the future of the industry and promoting its agenda in a technical approach by supporting startups that drive innovation and sustainability?

(a) Ministry of Textiles

(b) Ministry of Agriculture

(c) Ministry of Home Affairs

(d) Ministry of Heavy Industry

(e) Ministry of Jal Shakthi

7) The __________ National Yoga Olympiad (NYO) 2024 was officially opened by the Karnataka Governor in the convocation hall of Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), located in Mysuru.

(a) 7th

(b) 8th

(c) 9th

(d) 6th

(e) 10th

8) According to a European think tank, which nation has outperformed its rival superpowers in terms of increasing its nuclear weapon stockpile?

(a) USA

(b) China

(c) Japan

(d) South Korea

(e) Russia

9) Vinod Ganatra receives the Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award.The award was presented to him at the_________ Nelson Mandela Children's Film Festival, making him the first Indian to earn such a prestigious accolade.

(a) 5th

(b) 6th

(c) 7th

(d) 9th

(e) 10th

10) In June 2024, Sudhakararao Papa is expected to become the next Director (Enterprise) of which company?

(a) Paytm

(b) Phonepe

(c) Jio

(d) Airtel

(e) BSNL

11) Which bank has recruited Ajith Kumar KK as its Managing Director?

(a)  Canara bank

(b) Karnataka bank

(c) City Union Bank

(d) Federal bank

(e) Dhanlaxmi bank

12) A team of scientists from which state along with Odisha, China, and the UK created a water-repellent catalyst that can significantly reduce the cost of making "environmentally benign" biodiesel compared to existing levels?

(a) West Bengal

(b) Uttar Pradesh

(c) Assam

(d) Jharkhand

(e) Nagaland

13) Google releases its Gemini mobile app in India, with support for how many Indian languages. In addition to India, how many other countries did Google launch the Gemini app?

(a) 9,4

(b) 8,5

(c) 11,6

(d) 9,3

(e) 12,8

14) Anil Chauhan issued India's first Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations. Which country has developed a significant cyberwarfare capabilities, such as cyberweapons capable of degrading or destroying an adversary's military assets and strategic networks?

(a) USA

(b) China

(c) Japan

(d) South Korea

(e) Russia

15) Which ministry claimed that the Skin bank facility will follow the highest quality control and safety requirements, ensuring the integrity and dependability of the skin grafts?

(a) Ministry of Defence

(b) Ministry of Agriculture

(c) Ministry of Home Affairs

(d) Ministry of Heavy Industry

(e) Ministry of Jal Shakthi

16) The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of India, has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with which country's Public Service Commission?

(a) Armenia

(b) Spain

(c) Madagascar

(d) Gambia

(e) Finland

17) Who is the top celebrity, according to the ninth edition of Kroll's Celebrity Brand Valuation Study, titled "Brands, Business, and Bollywood"?

(a) Ranveer Singh

(b) Alia Bhatt

(c) MS Dhoni

(d) Virat Kohli

(e) Sachin Tendulkar

18) Which country hosted the Paavo Nurmi Games where Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic and world champion from India, won his first gold medal?

(a) Armenia

(b) Spain

(c) Madagascar

(d) Gambia

(e) Finland

19) When was Resolution 55/76 of the UN General Assembly enacted, which is the source of World Refugee Day?

(a) 2000

(b) 2001

(c) 2003

(d) 2005

(e) 2007

20) Parameswaran Thankappan Nair (91), also known as the "barefoot historian," spent almost 60 years in which city and was regarded as an authority inthe city’s history?

(a) Mumbai

(b) Kochi

(c) Kolkata

(d) Hyderabad

(e) Jaipur

Answers :

1) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) are keeping a close watch on the surging volume in the equity derivatives segment whose volumes have even dwarfed the nominal GDP of the country.
• Options and futures volumes are larger than the nominal GDP of the country stated RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.
• He further highlighted the fact that SEBI is actively addressing the issue and will take appropriate actions if needed. The discussions took place within the framework of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC), he stated.
• India's nominal GDP or GDP at Current Prices was estimated to be Rs 295.36 lakh crore in the year 2023-24, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation website.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) are keeping a close watch on the surging volume in the equity derivatives segment whose volumes have even dwarfed the nominal GDP of the country.
• Options and futures volumes are larger than the nominal GDP of the country stated RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.
• He further highlighted the fact that SEBI is actively addressing the issue and will take appropriate actions if needed. The discussions took place within the framework of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC), he stated.
• India's nominal GDP or GDP at Current Prices was estimated to be Rs 295.36 lakh crore in the year 2023-24, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation website.
• The combined average F&O turnover for BSE and NSE stood at Rs 362 trillion in FY24.
• Data from the Futures Industry Association (FIA), a global trade organisation for the derivatives market, shows that India’s National Stock Exchange (NSE) occupies the numero uno position in terms of the number of options contracts traded only to be followed by another Indian bourse – BSE.
• In April 2024, NSE saw a total of nearly 8,494 million contracts being traded with options contracts accounting for the bulk of the share. BSE, on the other hand, saw 2,224 million contracts being traded in April.
• Incidentally, the combined volume of the two Indian bourses accounted for almost 81% of the global volume, which was pegged at 13,255 million
• Meanwhile, a recent SEBI discussion paper suggested that the regulator has proposed stricter eligibility criteria for stocks in the futures and options segment, aiming to update a framework unchanged since 2016.
• SEBI's discussion paper has further proposed new criteria for selecting stocks in futures and options trading, aiming to ensure sufficient liquidity and market interest.
• The SEBI discussion paper proposed that stocks must have traded on 75 percent of trading days, with at least 15 percent participation from active derivatives traders.
• Additional requirements included daily turnover thresholds and limits on open contracts to mitigate risks like market manipulation and volatility.

2) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Every year on June 19th, World Sickle Cell Day is commemorated to raise awareness of the human Sickle Cell illness.
• The theme of 2024 is “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Care Globally.”
• The United Nations General Assembly declared World Sickle Cell Day in 2008 to promote awareness of sickle cell illness.

Detailed Explanation:

• Every year on June 19th, World Sickle Cell Day is commemorated to raise awareness of the human Sickle Cell illness.
• The theme of 2024 is “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Care Globally.”
• The UN declared the day, and it has served to raise awareness of the condition, its organization, the care and measures that should be taken, and the treatment that should be given to someone who is suffering from it.
• The United Nations General Assembly declared World Sickle Cell Day in 2008 to promote awareness of sickle cell illness.
• They also highlighted the agony and emotional devastation that a patient with the condition must endure.
• As a result, on June 19, 2009, World Sickle Cell Day was commemorated for the first time. Sickle cell disease has spread throughout the world and has gradually evolved into a hereditary and genetic illness. Due to the fact that a large population is now infected with the illness, it is critical that sufferers receive increased knowledge, effective care, and treatment.
• Furthermore, correct diagnosis and early therapy aid in the better management and treatment of the condition. In addition to the UN, the WHO now offers a number of options for treating illness patients in a more humane manner.
• According to official data and sources, more than 1000 newborns die of the condition before they reach the age of five.
• The illness has spread rapidly over Africa and the United States, affecting more than 90,000 to 100,000 people.
• In addition, sickle cell anaemia affects people in India, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the Arabic peninsula, Brazil, Surinam, Guiana, Southern Italy, Greece, and other nations.

3) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• The Central government is likely to announce India’s adoption of the “Pillar-2” tax regime anchored by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in the coming Budget, as part of the country’s efforts to support and benefit from the global system combating tax avoidance.
• The Finance Bill, 2024, passed after the interim Budget presentation, will be amended after the tabling of the full Budget in the second half of July to this effect, an official said, on condition of anonymity.
• The Pillar 2-GloBE Rules – which provides for a global minimum tax for “multinational enterprises” (MNEs), aims to deter profit shifting by ensuring that these firms maintain a minimum Effective Tax Rate (ETR) of 15% across all jurisdictions in which they operate.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Central government is likely to announce India’s adoption of the “Pillar-2” tax regime anchored by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in the coming Budget, as part of the country’s efforts to support and benefit from the global system combating tax avoidance.
• The Finance Bill, 2024, passed after the interim Budget presentation, will be amended after the tabling of the full Budget in the second half of July to this effect, an official said, on condition of anonymity.
• The Pillar 2-GloBE Rules – which provides for a global minimum tax for “multinational enterprises” (MNEs), aims to deter profit shifting by ensuring that these firms maintain a minimum Effective Tax Rate (ETR) of 15% across all jurisdictions in which they operate.
• MNEs, as per the rules, are defined as those entities with a global turnover exceeding 750 million euros.
• To make Pillar 2 operational in India, the Centre would have to amend the tax laws to include the rules, namely Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (QDMTT), Income Inclusion Rule (IIR), Undertaxed Profits Rule (UTPR), and Subject to Tax Rule (STTR).
• Essentially, all these rules enable countries, in this case, India, to impose a ‘top-up tax’ on either the intermediate parent entity (IPE) or the ultimate parent entity (UPE) of a company that artificially reports profits in a low-tax jurisdiction.
• Consider for instance, an MNE group headquartered in India, pays corporate tax at a rate of 9% in UAE through its subsidiary.
• This would mean the remaining 6%, it will have to be paid as a top-up tax, if India implements the pillar-2 regime.
• The pillar-2 regime, in simple words, aims to prevent MNEsfrom shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions.
• Since January 1, 2024, over 27 countries (of 130 that signed the multilateral convention) have incorporated the pillar-2 rules in their domestic laws.

4) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone by entering the prestigiousLimca Book of Records for organizing the largest public service event across multiple venues in India.
• The event, orchestrated by the Ministry of Railways garnered participation from an impressive 40,19,516 people spread across 2,140 venues

Detailed Explanation:

• Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone by entering the prestigiousLimca Book of Records for organizing the largest public service event across multiple venues in India.
• The event, orchestrated by the Ministry of Railways garnered participation from an impressive 40,19,516 people spread across 2,140 venues
• This recognition not only celebrates Indian Railways' organizational capabilities but also commemorates its ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity, infrastructure, and public services across the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Event Details:

• Purpose: The event was convened for the inauguration of road over/road under railway bridges and for laying the foundation stones of railway stations. It was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, underscoring its national importance and scale.
• Organizational Effort: Indian Railways orchestrated a mammoth effort to coordinate simultaneous events across numerous locations, showcasing its logistical prowess and operational capabilities.
• Recognition: The meticulous planning and successful execution of this expansive event have earned Indian Railways a distinguished entry into the Limca Book of Records, highlighting its commitment to public service and infrastructure development.

Significance:

• National Impact: The record-breaking event underscores Indian Railways' integral role in India's infrastructure development and public service initiatives.
• Limca Book of Records: Being featured in the Limca Book of Records acknowledges Indian Railways' achievement as a remarkable feat in the realm of public service events.

5) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has embarked on a pioneering initiative to establish Miyawaki plantations along various stretches of National Highways, aimed at enhancing ecological restoration and biodiversity.

• Miyawaki Plantation Method: NHAI will implement the Miyawaki method, a Japanese technique for creating dense, native forests in a short span of time. This approach is renowned for its ability to foster biodiversity, enhance groundwater recharge, and serve as effective barriers against sound and dust.

Detailed Explanation:

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has embarked on a pioneering initiative to establish Miyawaki plantations along various stretches of National Highways, aimed at enhancing ecological restoration and biodiversity.

Objective and Method:

• Miyawaki Plantation Method: NHAI will implement the Miyawaki method, a Japanese technique for creating dense, native forests in a short span of time. This approach is renowned for its ability to foster biodiversity, enhance groundwater recharge, and serve as effective barriers against sound and dust.
• Benefits: By focusing on indigenous plant species adapted to local climate and soil conditions, NHAI aims to maximize the environmental benefits of these plantations. These forests are expected to grow ten times faster than traditional forests, thereby accelerating the restoration process.
• Locations: NHAI has identified over 53 acres of land adjacent to National Highways in and around Delhi-NCR for Miyawaki plantations. Key sites include:
  • 4.7 acres along the Haryana section of Dwarka Expressway
  • 4.1 acres near Sohna on the Delhi – Vadodara section of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway
  • Approximately 5 acres each at Chabri and Kharkhara interchanges on NH 152D (Ambala – Kotputli corridor)
  • Over 12 acres at Shamli bypass on NH-709B
  • 9.2 acres at Duhai interchange on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway near Ghaziabad
  • 5.6 acres near the Meerut-Najibabad section of NH-34 in Uttar Pradesh

Implementation Timeline:

• Ground Preparation: Preparation work has already commenced at the selected sites.
• Plantation Schedule: NHAI plans to undertake the plantation activities during the upcoming monsoon season, with completion targeted by the end of August 2024.

Environmental Impact:

• Water Conservation: Miyawaki plantations are expected to contribute significantly to groundwater recharge due to their dense and diverse vegetation cover.
• Ecological Restoration: These initiatives align with NHAI’s broader environmental goals, promoting sustainability and biodiversity along the National Highway corridors.

Conclusion: NHAI’s initiative to establish Miyawaki plantations marks a significant step towards enhancing green cover, biodiversity conservation, and ecological resilience along India’s National Highways. By leveraging innovative afforestation methods, NHAI aims to contribute positively to environmental sustainability and community well-being across these regions.

6) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• The Ministry of Textiles is advancing its agenda in Technical Textiles by endorsing startups to propel innovation and sustainability, emphasizing transformative developments for the sector's future.
• Rachna Shah, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, articulated this during the 7th meeting of the Empowered Programme Committee of the National Technical Textiles Mission in New Delhi.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Ministry of Textiles is advancing its agenda in Technical Textiles by endorsing startups to propel innovation and sustainability, emphasizing transformative developments for the sector's future.
• Rachna Shah, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, articulated this during the 7th meeting of the Empowered Programme Committee of the National Technical Textiles Mission in New Delhi.

1. National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM):
   • The mission aims to stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship in Technical Textiles.
   • It supports young innovators, scientists, technologists, and startup ventures to translate their ideas into commercial products.
   • Focus areas include developing functional prototypes and commercializing technologies to enhance India's self-reliance in Technical Textiles.
2. GREAT Scheme:
   • The Empowered Programme Committee has approved 7 startup proposals under the GREAT (Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles) scheme.
   • Each startup can receive a maximum fund support of Rs 50 lakhs from the government.
3. Approved Startups and Focus Areas:
   • Under the NTTM, a total of 8 startup proposals have been sanctioned.
   • These startups are dedicated to various domains such as sustainability, composites, high-performance textiles, Meditech (medical textiles), and smart textiles.
   • The goal is to drive substantial advancements in these critical sectors through innovative solutions and entrepreneurial initiatives.

7) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Karnataka Governor inaugurated the ninth National Yoga Olympiad (NYO) 2024, at the convocation hall of Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), in Mysuru.
• Yogahas been a part of Indian culture and tradition since ancient times.
• The importance of yoga is mentioned in our scriptures and it is a part of the whole world today. That is why India is considered as 'Guru of Yoga', stated Governor of Karnataka Thawar Chand Gehlot.
• On September 27, 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all the countries of the world to adopt yoga and proposed to celebrate Yoga Day every year.
• The proposal was adopted and implemented by the United Nations General Assembly in 90 days.

Detailed Explanation:

• Karnataka Governor inaugurated the ninth National Yoga Olympiad (NYO) 2024, at the convocation hall of Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), in Mysuru.
• Yogahas been a part of Indian culture and tradition since ancient times.
• The importance of yoga is mentioned in our scriptures and it is a part of the whole world today. That is why India is considered as 'Guru of Yoga', stated Governor of Karnataka Thawar Chand Gehlot.
• On September 27, 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all the countries of the world to adopt yoga and proposed to celebrate Yoga Day every year.
• The proposal was adopted and implemented by the United Nations General Assembly in 90 days.
• Since then, International Yoga Day has been celebrated on June 21, in our country and the world, Gehlot stated.
• More than 400 students and 100 teachers are participating in the three-day NYO, at the Regional Institute of Education (RIE) of National Council National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT),Mysuru.
• The theme for NYO 2024 is 'Yoga for Self and Society'.
• It is an inclusive event and the students are selected at the district-level and they participate in the state-level to participate in the state-level to reach the national-level.
• Professor Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director, NCERT, RIE Principal Y Sreekanth and others were present.

The students also demonstrated yoga as part of the programme.

8) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• Chinahas beaten its fellow superpowers when it comes to growing its stockpile of nuclear warheads, a European think tank stated in a report.
• According to SIPRI, China has increased its nuclear warheads from 410 in 2023 to 500 at the start of this year.
• But China, Kristensen stated, isn't the only country that's been busy expanding its nuclear arsenal.
• North Korea has increased its warheads by two-thirds over the past year, going from 30 in 2023 to 50 this year, per the think tank.

Detailed Explanation:

• Chinahas beaten its fellow superpowers when it comes to growing its stockpile of nuclear warheads, a European think tank stated in a report.
• According to SIPRI, China has increased its nuclear warheads from 410 in 2023 to 500 at the start of this year.
• But China, Kristensen stated, isn't the only country that's been busy expanding its nuclear arsenal.
• North Korea has increased its warheads by two-thirds over the past year, going from 30 in 2023 to 50 this year, per the think tank.
• To be sure, China's and North Korea's growing nuclear stockpiles still cannot compare to what the US and Russia have.
• In terms of total inventory, the US has 5,044 warheads while Russia has 5,580, and their combined stockpile makes up almost 90% of the world's nuclear weapons, per
• China could have over 1,000 warheads by 2030
• Expanding its nuclear arsenal isn't China's only military goal.
• The country has also been focused on bolstering its naval capabilities.
• According to a 2021 US Navy Institute report, China has the world's largest navy, with over 355 vessels in its fleet.
• In July, leaked US Navy intelligence revealed that China's shipbuilding capacity is 232 times greater than the US.

9) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Vinod Ganatra, a distinguished children’s filmmaker from India, has been honoured with South Africa’s prestigious 'Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award' for his exceptional contributions to children’s cinema.
• The award was bestowed upon him at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival, making him the first Indian to receive this esteemed recognition.
• Vinod Ganatra’s receipt of the Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award underscores his significant impact on children’s cinema and his dedication to storytelling that inspires and educates young audiences.

Detailed Explanation:

• Vinod Ganatra, a distinguished children’s filmmaker from India, has been honoured with South Africa’s prestigious 'Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award' for his exceptional contributions to children’s cinema.
• The award was bestowed upon him at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival, making him the first Indian to receive this esteemed recognition.
• Vinod Ganatra’s receipt of the Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award underscores his significant impact on children’s cinema and his dedication to storytelling that inspires and educates young audiences.
• His contributions have not only enriched Indian cinema but also resonated globally, earning him acclaim and admiration across borders.

Background and Achievements:

• Based in Mumbai, Vinod Ganatra is globally recognized for his work as a filmmaker and editor.
• He has edited and directed approximately 400 documentaries and newsreels throughout his career.
• Ganatra has produced 25 multilingual television programs aimed at children and youth.
• His first television program, ‘Baingan Raja,’ was awarded the ‘Janakinath Gaur Award’ by Doordarshan.
• His Gujarati film, ‘Harun Arun,’ filmed on the India-Pakistan border, received the prestigious 'Liv Ullmann Peace Prize' at the 26th Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, making him the sole Indian recipient of this honour.
• Ganatra has garnered 36 national and international awards in recognition of his cinematic achievements.
• He was honoured with the ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award’ by the Association of Film and Video Editors for his significant contributions to the field.
• Ganatra has served as a jury member for over 100 national, regional, and international film festivals globally.

10) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Sudhakararao Papa is set to be the next Director (Enterprise) of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).
• He has been recommended for the post by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel on June 15.

Presently, he is serving as Chief General Manager (Chennai Telecom District Circle) in the same organisation.

Detailed Explanation:

• Sudhakararao Papa is set to be the next Director (Enterprise) of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).
• He has been recommended for the post by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel on June 15.
• Presently, he is serving as Chief General Manager (Chennai Telecom District Circle) in the same organisation.
• As Director (Enterprise) of BSNL, Papa will be a member of the Board of Directors and reports to the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD).
• He will act as head of the Enterprise Business unit and will be responsible for business from big corporate customers and small & medium enterprises (SMEs).
• He will be responsible for all aspects of the business including product design, product pricing, sales, marketing, customer service etc.

11) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• Private sector Dhanlaxmi Bank stated it has appointed Ajith Kumar KK as Managing Director (MD) of the bank.
• He will take charge on June 20,Kerala-based Dhanlaxmi Bank stated in a regulatory filing.
• The board at its meeting approved the appointment of Ajith Kumar KK as Managing Director & CEO of the bank for a period of three years with effect from June 20, 2024, and on such remuneration as approved by RBI vide letter dated April 18, it stated.

Detailed Explanation:

• Private sector Dhanlaxmi Bank stated it has appointed Ajith Kumar KK as Managing Director (MD) of the bank.
• He will take charge on June 20,Kerala-based Dhanlaxmi Bank stated in a regulatory filing.
• The board at its meeting approved the appointment of Ajith Kumar KK as Managing Director & CEO of the bank for a period of three years with effect from June 20, 2024, and on such remuneration as approved by RBI vide letter dated April 18, it stated.
• The bank will seek approval of the shareholders for the stated appointment within the prescribed time period in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI regulations, it stated.
• He is a seasoned banker with over 36 years of experience with the Federal Bank in various facets of banking including Credit, Human Resources, Business, Branch Banking etc.
• He is presently the Chief Human Resources Officer at Federal Bank in the cadre of president, it stated.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• A team of scientists from Assam, Odisha, China, and the United Kingdom have developed a water-repellent catalyst that can cut the cost of producing “environmentally benign” biodiesel substantially from the current levels.
• The process of arriving at the “spherical superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst” to withstand water by-product during the production of biodiesel – pursued as a substitute for diesel, an exhaustible fossil fuel – has been published in the latest issue of the peer-reviewed Advanced Functional Materials, a high impact journal of the international materials science community.

Detailed Explanation:

• A team of scientists from Assam, Odisha, China, and the United Kingdom have developed a water-repellent catalyst that can cut the cost of producing “environmentally benign” biodiesel substantially from the current levels.
• The process of arriving at the “spherical superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst” to withstand water by-product during the production of biodiesel – pursued as a substitute for diesel, an exhaustible fossil fuel – has been published in the latest issue of the peer-reviewed Advanced Functional Materials, a high impact journal of the international materials science community.
• The authors of the study are Arpita Das, Kangkana Saikia, and Samuel Lalthazuala Rokhum of Southern Assam’s Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Silchar, Chandrakanta Guchhait and Bimalendu Adhikari of NIT Rourkela in Odisha, Da Shi of the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, and Hu Li of the Guizhou University in
• Superhydrophobic catalysts, imitating the anti-wetting or water-repulsing properties of natural surfaces such as lotus leaves, are deemed crucial for their ability to prevent the poisoning of active sites by water, produced in situ or as a by-product.
• The catalyst, derived from biomass (cellulose), is ecologically benign, abundant, and highly affordable.
• At present, the cost of biodiesel in India is about ₹100 or UD$1.2 per litre.
• Using the superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst can bring down the cost to about 37 cents per litre. A litre of less fuel-efficient diesel costs at least ₹87 in India.

13) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Google has launched the Gemini app in India, supporting 9 Indian languages.
• The AI chatbot, which was only available in English, now lets users type or talk in Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.
• To get Gemini on Android, users can either download the app from the Play Store or opt-in using Google Assistant.
• Apart from India, Google also launched the Gemini app in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Turkey.

Detailed Explanation:

• Google has launched the Gemini app in India, supporting 9 Indian languages.
• The AI chatbot, which was only available in English, now lets users type or talk in Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.
• To get Gemini on Android, users can either download the app from the Play Store or opt-in using Google Assistant.
• As for iOS, Gemini will be accessible from the Google app in the coming weeks.
• Similar to Google’s previous voice assistant, which appears as an overlay, you can summon Gemini by saying ‘Hey Google’.
• Just like OpenAI’s ChatGPT,you can use the Gemini app can help you draft messages, help write emails, analyse images and upload files and ask questions about them.
• The chatbot can also search the internet for information on your behalf and is integrated with various Google services like Gmail and Maps.
• Powered by Gemini 1.0 Pro, the free-to-use AI chatbot also offers a paid option that gives access to Gemini Advanced based on Gemini 1.5 Pro, an advanced large language model with a 1 million token context window.
• The tech giant says Gemini 1.5 Pro will be able to “understand vast amounts of information, from lengthy documents and emails to even hours of video and extensive codebases” in the near future.
• The company also announced that it is rolling out Gemini into Google Messages in English for Indian users today.
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• At the Google I/O developer conference last month, Google showed how it is planning to integrate Gemini into apps like Gmail, YouTube, Google Messages and Android.
• Apart from India, Google also launched the Gemini app in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Turkey.

14) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

• The Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan released India’s first joint doctrine for cyberspace operations, acknowledging that cyberspace has emerged as a crucial and challenging domain in modern warfare.
• Cyber warfare is actions taken in cyberspace (dynamic and virtual space that connects the different computer systems) by state or non-state actors that
• Are conducted in response to a perceived threat against a nation’s security.
• Unlike territorial limits in the traditional domains of warfare (such as land, sea, and air),cyberspace is a global common and hence has shared sovereignty.
• Hostile actions in cyberspace can impact the nation’s economy, cohesion, political decision-making, and the ability to defend itself.
• Chinahas built major capabilities in the cyber warfare domain, including cyberweapons to degrade or destroy an adversary's military assets and strategic networks.
• India has been lagging far behind in this arena, with the government only approving the creation of a small tri-service Defence Cyber Agency in 2019 instead of the full-fledged Cyber Command that the armed forces wanted.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan released India’s first joint doctrine for cyberspace operations, acknowledging that cyberspace has emerged as a crucial and challenging domain in modern warfare.
• Cyber warfare is actions taken in cyberspace (dynamic and virtual space that connects the different computer systems) by state or non-state actors that
• Are conducted in response to a perceived threat against a nation’s security.
• Unlike territorial limits in the traditional domains of warfare (such as land, sea, and air),cyberspace is a global common and hence has shared sovereignty.
• Hostile actions in cyberspace can impact the nation’s economy, cohesion, political decision-making, and the ability to defend itself.
• The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In):It acts as the central agency for incident response, vulnerability handling, and security management in India's cyberspace.
• Cyber Surakshit Bharat: It was launched by the MeitY with the National Electronic Governance Division (NeGD) to ensure more awareness about the latest cybercrimes and the cybersecurity challenges of India.
• Cyber Swachhta Kendra:It provides free tools for malware analysis and helps improve the security of systems and devices.
• National Cybersecurity Policy 2013:It provides a framework for creating a secure cyber ecosystem and aims to protect information and other critical infrastructure.
• NCIIPC:The National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) was established for the protection of critical information infrastructure in the country.
• Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):The Central Government has rolled out a scheme for the establishment of I4C to handle issues related to cybercrime in the country in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
• Chinahas built major capabilities in the cyber warfare domain, including cyberweapons to degrade or destroy an adversary's military assets and strategic networks.
• India has been lagging far behind in this arena, with the government only approving the creation of a small tri-service Defence Cyber Agency in 2019 instead of the full-fledged Cyber Command that the armed forces wanted.
• The doctrine comes at a time when the Army is operationalising dedicated specialised units in each of its six operational or regional commands to handle the cyberspace domain.
• The doctrine will guide tri-services in planning and conducting cyberspace operations in the current complex military operating environment.
• It will give impetus to the ongoing process of integration being actively pursued by the Army, IAF and Navy.
• Significance of the doctrine:This doctrine –
• Lays emphasis on understanding military aspects of cyberspace operations,
• Provides conceptual guidance to commanders, staff and practitioners in the planning, and conduct of operations in cyberspace, and

Raise awareness of the Indian warfighters at all levels.

15) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• The Indian Army announced the opening of a state-of-the-art skin bank facility at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral).
• The facility offers the latest modern treatment for severe burn injuries received by armed forces personnel and their families.
• The MoD stated that the facility will adhere to the highest quality control and safety standards, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the skin grafts.
• The skin bank now completes the organ donation programme the Army is pushing to save the lives of its soldiers and their families.
• The Army Hospital (R&R) already has a set of skin, donated on May 29, in its bank.
• A doctor explained that only a few millimetres from the top layer, not the entire skin, is scalped through an instrument, ‘electrical dermatomes’.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Indian Army announced the opening of a state-of-the-art skin bank facility at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral).
• The facility offers the latest modern treatment for severe burn injuries received by armed forces personnel and their families.
• This will be the first of its kind to be established within the Armed Forces Medical Services to cater to the three kinds of patients the Army hospitals see: injuries from domestic fire accidents, electrical incidents, and kerosene warmers jawans and officers use to keep themselves warm at high altitudes.
• The skin bank will be staffed by highly-trained medical professionals, including plastic surgeons, tissue engineers, and specialised technicians.
• The MoD stated that the facility will adhere to the highest quality control and safety standards, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the skin grafts.
• DGMS(Army) & Colonel Commandant General Arindam Chatterjee termed the launch of the skin bank as a testament to the unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of service members as it would enhance the quality of care.
• The skin bank now completes the organ donation programme the Army is pushing to save the lives of its soldiers and their families.
• The Army Hospital (R&R) already has a set of skin, donated on May 29, in its bank.
• A doctor explained that only a few millimetres from the top layer, not the entire skin, is scalped through an instrument, ‘electrical dermatomes’.
• To keep the sensitivity of family members of organ donors, the Army doctors take out skin only from the lower limbs and back and leave hands and other portions of the dead to avoid the body getting mutilated.
• The skin is then immersed in 85% glycerol solution and kept at a certain desired temperature in a refrigerator so that it’s alive for grafting or transplant, Army hospital sources pointed out.
• The Army believes that more awareness of skin donation must be created in the country to bridge the demand and supply gap.

16) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of India, has extended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Public Service Commission of the Republic of the Gambia.
• The extension, effective from July 8, 2024, continues the collaboration for another five years.

Detailed Explanation:

• The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of India, has extended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Public Service Commission of the Republic of the Gambia.
• The extension, effective from July 8, 2024, continues the collaboration for another five years.
• This extended partnership aims to enhance governance and administrative efficiencies, drawing from India's policy initiatives and digital transformation strategies.

Key Details:

• MoU Extension: Originally signed on July 8, 2021, for three years, the MoU focuses on refurbishing personnel administration and governance reforms.
• Signing Ceremony: The extension was signed by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary of DARPG, and H.E. Mr. Mustapha Jawara, High Commissioner of Gambia, in a ceremonial function held at CSoI, New Delhi.
• Objectives: The agreement aims to:
  • Strengthen bilateral partnership through sharing best practices in administrative reforms and good governance.
  • Conduct webinars, research publications, and capacity building programs.
  • Implement good governance practices such as performance management systems, contributory pension schemes, and e-recruitment in government.
• Joint Working Group: A Joint Working Group on Public Administration and Governance Reforms will outline the roadmap for collaboration under the MoU.
• Indian Vision: During the event, India presented its vision of "Maximum Governance – Minimum Government," emphasizing a "Digitally Empowered Citizen" and a "Digitally Transformed Institution," reflecting Prime Minister Modi's Next Generation Reforms.

17) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

• Kroll, a leading global risk and financial advisory solutions firm, has unveiled the ninth edition of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study, ‘Brands, Business, Bollywood.’
• The study reveals significant shifts in the brand values of India's top celebrities for 2023.

Top 5 Celebrity Brand Values:

1. Virat Kohli: The Indian cricketer has reclaimed the top spot with a brand value of $227.9 million.
2. Ranveer Singh: Bollywood star Ranveer Singh takes second place with a brand value of $203.1 million.
3. Shah Rukh Khan: The iconic actor secures third place with a brand value of $120.7 million, boosted by three blockbuster hits in 2023.
4. Akshay Kumar: Dropping to the fourth position, Akshay Kumar has a brand value of $111.7 million.
5. Alia Bhatt: Rising to fifth place, Alia Bhatt's brand value stands at $101.1 million.

Detailed Explanation:

• Kroll, a leading global risk and financial advisory solutions firm, has unveiled the ninth edition of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study, ‘Brands, Business, Bollywood.’
• The study reveals significant shifts in the brand values of India's top celebrities for 2023.

Top 5 Celebrity Brand Values:

1. Virat Kohli: The Indian cricketer has reclaimed the top spot with a brand value of $227.9 million.
2. Ranveer Singh: Bollywood star Ranveer Singh takes second place with a brand value of $203.1 million.
3. Shah Rukh Khan: The iconic actor secures third place with a brand value of $120.7 million, boosted by three blockbuster hits in 2023.
4. Akshay Kumar: Dropping to the fourth position, Akshay Kumar has a brand value of $111.7 million.
5. Alia Bhatt: Rising to fifth place, Alia Bhatt's brand value stands at $101.1 million.

• Overall Market Growth: The combined brand value of the top 25 Indian celebrities in 2023 is estimated at $1.9 billion, an 18% increase from the previous year.
• Top Digital Platform Advertisements:
• Pepsi: Endorsed by Ranveer Singh.
• Livspace: Endorsed by Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli.
• JioCinema: Endorsed by Alia Bhatt, MS Dhoni, and Sachin Tendulkar.
• Notable Movements:
  • Kiara Advani: Jumped from rank 16 to rank 12, showcasing a significant rise in brand value.
  • Katrina Kaif: Re-entered the list of India’s most valued celebrity brands after a five-year hiatus.

Study Basis:

• The rankings are based on the celebrities' brand endorsement portfolios and their relative presence on social media, reflecting their influence and marketability.
• This edition of Kroll’s Celebrity Brand Valuation Study underscores India's dynamic nature of celebrity brand values, driven by endorsements, media presence, and recent professional successes.

18) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

• India's Olympic and world champion javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, claimed his maiden gold medal at the Paavo Nurmi Games,Finland showcasing his dominance upon returning to competitive action after a month-long break.
• Gold Medal Performance: Neeraj Chopra secured the gold with a throw of 85.97m in his third attempt, leading the field for most of the competition.
• Silver and Bronze: Toni Keranen won the silver with a personal best of 84.19m, while 2022 gold-medallist Oliver Helander took bronze with 83.96m.

Detailed Explanation:

• India's Olympic and world champion javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, claimed his maiden gold medal at the Paavo Nurmi Games,Finland showcasing his dominance upon returning to competitive action after a month-long break.
• Gold Medal Performance: Neeraj Chopra secured the gold with a throw of 85.97m in his third attempt, leading the field for most of the competition.
• Silver and Bronze: Toni Keranen won the silver with a personal best of 84.19m, while 2022 gold-medallist Oliver Helander took bronze with 83.96m.
• Previous Performances:
  • Doha Diamond League: Chopra began his season in May, finishing second with a throw of 88.36m, the ninth-best mark of his career.
  • National Federation Cup: He also secured gold at the National Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar with a throw of 82.27m.
• Upcoming Events: Chopra will compete next at the Paris Diamond League on July 7.
• Event Background: The Paavo Nurmi Games, held annually since 1957 at the Paavo Nurmi Stadium in Turku, Finland, became part of the IAAF World Challenge in 2017.

19) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

• Every year on June 20th, World Refugee Day is commemorated to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and the difficulties they face.
• World Refugee Day traces its origins to Resolution 55/76 of the United Nations General Assembly, adopted on December 4, 2000.
• The 1951 Refugee Convention emerged in the aftermath of World War II and established the foundational legal framework for protecting and ensuring the rights of refugees.

Detailed Explanation:

• Every year on June 20th, World Refugee Day is commemorated to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and the difficulties they face.
• World Refugee Day traces its origins to Resolution 55/76 of the United Nations General Assembly, adopted on December 4, 2000.
• This resolution was introduced to raise awareness about the increasing global refugee population and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
• The 1951 Refugee Convention emerged in the aftermath of World War II and established the foundational legal framework for protecting and ensuring the rights of refugees.
• It set forth the criteria for identifying individuals as refugees, delineated their entitlements, and defined the responsibilities of nations in providing them with safety and support.
• This convention has played a pivotal role in upholding the rights and welfare of those compelled to flee their homes due to persecution or conflict.

20) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

• Researcher, historian and author Parameswaran Thankappan Nair (91), who spent more than six decades in Kolkata and was considered an authority on the city’s history, died in Kochi, Kerala.
• Known as the “barefoot historian” of Kolkata.
• He wrote about the city streets, its police force and history.

Detailed Explanation:

• Researcher, historian and author Parameswaran Thankappan Nair (91), who spent more than six decades in Kolkata and was considered an authority on the city’s history, died in Kochi, Kerala.
• Known as the “barefoot historian” of Kolkata.
• In Calcutta in the 1950s, Nair’s first job was the role of a typist at a private firm.
• He soon grew bored of it but became fascinated with Kolkata, its rich colonial past, intellectual heft and ability to carry together both the rich and the downtrodden.
• Later, he took up jobs in Guwahati (Assam) and Mumbai (Maharashtra) as well but within a short period, returned to
• In 1976, he started living in the Kansaripara Road area and in 2018, after six decades, the 86-year-old eventually gave in to the requests of his family members in Kerala and bid farewell to Kolkata, a city he lovingly chronicled in more than 60 books.
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• He wrote about the city streets, its police force and history.
• In the decades spent in Calcutta, mostly on foot, soaking in the sights and meeting people, Nair proved to be more than a temporary migrant.
• His meticulous documentation of the city earned him the moniker of Calcutta’s “barefoot historian”.