Dear Readers, Daily Current Affairs Questions Quiz for SBI, IBPS, RBI, RRB, SSC Exam 2024 of 22nd & 23rd 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.

 

Start Quiz

 

1) Recently(Dec’24), Which bank was fined ₹27.30 lakh by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for failing to follow the "Reserve Bank of India (Interest Rate on Deposits) Directions, 2016"?"

(a) RBL bank

(b) IndusInd bank

(c) Karnataka bank

(d) IDBI bank

(e) YES bank

2) How many million dollars in loans are signed between India and the Asian Development Bank to strengthen multimodal logistics as part of the program to strengthen multimodal and integrated logistics ecosystems?

(a) $350 million

(b) $250 million

(c) $150 million

(d) $450 million

(e) $550 million

3) Recently(Dec’24), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) fined Manappuram Finance Limited how many lakhs for failing to follow the RBI's "Know Your Customer (KYC) Directions, 2016?

(a) Rs.5lakh

(b) Rs.10lakh

(c) Rs.15lakh

(d) Rs.20lakh

(e) Rs.25lakh

4) For the Union Budget FY 2025–2026, pre-budget consultations with state and union territory finance ministers were presided over by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. In order to build capital assets, states have embraced the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).In 2024–2025, how many crores more were allotted as "Untied Funds" under SASCI?

(a) Rs.10,000crore

(b) Rs.20,000crore

(c) Rs.30,000crore

(d) Rs.40,000crore

(e) Rs.50,000crore

5) According to reports, after how many years of cooperation, Bajaj Finance has decided to withdraw from the co-branded credit card market with RBL Bank and DBS Bank India?

(a) 12years

(b) 3years

(c) 5years

(d) 8years

(e) 10years

6) The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, which will be held throughout Delhi NCR from January 17 to 22, 2025, will highlight India's rising stature in the world of mobility. How many nations will present delegations to showcase innovative solutions throughout the automotive value chain?

(a) 10

(b) 11

(c) 12

(d) 13

(e) 15

7) With effect from the beginning of next year, Bulgaria and Romania have been granted full membership in the Schengen zone by the European Union (EU). Which year did Bulgaria and Romania become members of the EU?

(a) 2002

(b) 2005

(c) 2007

(d) 2009

(e) 2003

8) By signing a framework agreement to promote renewable energy, Moldova joins the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Which state in India was home to the ISA headquarters?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Odisha

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Haryana

(e) Gujarat

9) Which state's Kurukshetra will host the International Gita Mahotsav from November 28 to December 15 with Tanzania as a partner country?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Odisha

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Haryana

(e) Gujarat

10) Which nation, along with Brazil and India, released a historic joint declaration centered on data for governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital public infrastructure (DPI)?

(a) USA

(b) South Africa

(c) North Korea

(d) Vietnam

(e) Germany

11) In Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal unveiled the Sanjeevani Yojana. Out of the following statements, which is false?

(a) Under the scheme, elderly citizens will receive free treatment at both government and private hospitals with no upper limit on the treatment costs.

(b) AAP workers will visit homes for registration and provide a card for the scheme.

(c) All senior citizens over 60 years of age, regardless of socio-economic background.

(d) All the above are correct

(e) None of the above correct

12) Recently the Haryana government is undergoing a major administrative restructuring, with plans to create four new districts following the municipal elections. Which is a crucial center for manufacturing and logistics hub, with significant industrial and urban development?

(a) Assandh

(b) Dabwali

(c) Manesar

(d) Gohana

(e) Hansi

13) Which nation's Orbital Lasers and India’s InspeCity have partnered strategically to employ cutting-edge technologies and broaden their cooperation in the space industry in order to tackle the growing problem of space debris?

(a) Germany

(b) China

(c) Japan

(d) Australia

(e) France

14) Which Indian city is the hometown of 19-year-old Indian-American Caitlin Sandra Neil, who won the title of Miss India USA 2024 at the yearly pageant in New Jersey?

(a) Kolkata

(b) Patna

(c) Jaipur

(d) Chennai

(e) Kochi

15) The French President appointed Francois Bayrou as France's new Prime Minister. In 2024, Francois Bayrou was become the ______Prime Minister of the country.

(a) 3rd

(b) 4th

(c) 5th

(d) 7th

(e) 6th

16) In the November 27, 2024 election, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah received what percentage of the vote to become Namibia's first female president?

(a) 51%

(b) 57%

(c) 53%

(d) 55%

(e) 59%

17) Recently(Dec’24), Masato Kanda was chosen to serve as the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) _______ president.

(a) 10th

(b) 11th

(c) 12th

(d) 13th

(e) 15th

18) Which state tourism has named actor Pankaj Tripathi as its brand ambassador?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Andhra Pradesh

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Maharashtra

(e) Karnataka

19) Recently, Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former sports player, was elected president of Georgia. Which sport did he relate to?

(a) Tennis

(b) Football

(c) Boxing

(d) Hockey

(e) Basketball

20) The proposed acquisition of The India Cements Limited (India Cements) by UltraTech Cement Ltd (UltraTech) was approved by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). When UltraTech first revealed its acquisition strategy in July 2024, it planned to pay how many crores to acquire a 32.72% stake in India Cements?

(a) ₹3,954 crore

(b) ₹3,854 crore

(c) ₹3,754 crore

(d) ₹3,554 crore

(e) ₹3,654 crore

21) In order to supply the Indian Army with 155 mm/52 calibre ________ VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) entered into an agreement with Larsen & Toubro (L&T).

(a) K7

(b) K5

(c) K9

(d) K6

(e) K8

22) On December 20, 2024, Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong broke the previous record for the longest single spacewalk. They broke the previous record of ________ by completing their spacewalk in 9 hours and 9 minutes.

(a) 8 hours 56 minutes

(b) 8 hours 54 minutes

(c) 8 hours 55 minutes

(d) 8 hours 58 minutes

(e) 8 hours 50 minutes

23) The first native macrolide antibiotic in India, Nafithromycin, was created by Wockhardt with funding from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). How many crores was the investment required for development?

(a) Rs.200crores

(b) Rs.300crores

(c) Rs.100crores

(d) Rs.500crores

(e) Rs.400crores

24) The Zhongshan National Atmospheric Background Station, China's first atmospheric monitoring facility in Antarctica, started up. This is China's first monitoring station overseas and its _______ operational atmospheric monitoring station.

(a) 5th

(b) 7th

(c) 8th

(d) 9th

(e) 11th

25) A significant turning point in India's athletic history will be reached when it hosts the 2025 Para Athletics World Championships for the first time. In Which stadium will going to host the event?

(a) Narendra Modi Stadium

(b) Eden Gardens

(c) DY Patil Stadium

(d) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium

(e) Greenfield International Stadium

26) Which state's former chief minister and union minister, SM Krishna, passed away at the age of 92?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Andhra Pradesh

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Maharashtra

(e) Karnataka

27) Recently, Amiya Kumar Bagchi, an economic historian, has passed away. From 1976 to 1998, he served as the official historian of which bank?

(a) Reserve Bank of India

(b) Punjab National Bank

(c) State Bank of India

(d) Union Bank of India

(e) Indian Bank

28) When was National Mathematics Day 2024 observed?

(a) December 19

(b) December 20

(c) December 21

(d) December 22

(e) December 23

29) When was Kisan Diwas 2024 observed?

(a) December 19

(b) December 20

(c) December 21

(d) December 22

(e) December 23

30) What is the name of Georgia's currency?

(a) Naira

(b) Lari

(c) Dinar

(d) Yen

(e) Kyat

Answers :

1) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹27.30 lakh on IndusInd Bank Limited. for non-compliance with the ‘Reserve Bank of India (Interest Rate on Deposits) Directions, 2016’.

The penalty was imposed under Section 47A(1)(c) read with Section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹27.30 lakh on IndusInd Bank Limited. for non-compliance with the ‘Reserve Bank of India (Interest Rate on Deposits) Directions, 2016’.

The penalty was imposed under Section 47A(1)(c) read with Section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

The penalty follows findings from the Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE 2023) based on the bank’s financial position as of March 31, 2023.

The penalty was imposed due to non-compliance with RBI directions, specifically related to opening savings deposit accounts in the name of ineligible entities.

2) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

The Government of India (GoI) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $350 million policy-based loan under the second subprogram of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) program.

The SMILE program aims to support the government in implementing reforms in India’s logistics sector.

Detailed Explanation:

The Government of India (GoI) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $350 million policy-based loan under the second subprogram of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) program.

The SMILE program aims to support the government in implementing reforms in India’s logistics sector.

It is a programmatic policy-based loan (PBL) with two subprograms to enhance India’s manufacturing sector and improve supply chain resilience.

Institutional Strengthening: Focus on strengthening the institutional framework for multimodal logistics infrastructure development.

Standardization: Standardizing warehousing and logistics assets to boost supply chains and attract private sector investment.

Trade Logistics: Enhancing efficiencies in external trade logistics.

Smart Systems: Adoption of smart, low-emission logistics systems to improve efficiency.

3) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹20 lakh on Manappuram Finance Limited for non-compliance with RBI’s “Know Your Customer (KYC) Directions, 2016.”

The penalty was imposed under Section 58G(1)(b) and Section 58B(5)(aa) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

Detailed Explanation:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹20 lakh on Manappuram Finance Limited for non-compliance with RBI’s “Know Your Customer (KYC) Directions, 2016.”

The penalty was imposed under Section 58G(1)(b) and Section 58B(5)(aa) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

Reason for Penalty:The company failed to verify the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of customers using the verification facility of the issuing authority during customer acceptance.

The company allotted multiple identification codes to certain customers instead of assigning a Unique Customer Identification Code (UCIC) for each customer.

The penalty follows the findings of RBI’s statutory inspection, based on the financial position as of March 31, 2023.

4) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired pre-budget consultations with Finance Ministers of States and Union Territories at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, for the Union Budget FY 2025-26.

Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI):First introduced in Union Budget 2020-21, SASCI has been well-received by States for constructing capital assets.

Additional Allocation Under SASCI for FY 2024-25:An additional Rs. 30,000 crore allocated as "Untied Funds" under SASCI-2024-25.

Detailed Explanation:

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired pre-budget consultations with Finance Ministers of States and Union Territories at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, for the Union Budget FY 2025-26.

Devolution of Funds:Sitharaman highlighted that, due to a healthy macroeconomic environment, the funds devolved to States between April 2021 to December 2024 under the 15th Finance Commission exceeded those devolved in the 60 months under the 14th Finance Commission.

Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI):First introduced in Union Budget 2020-21, SASCI has been well-received by States for constructing capital assets.

The Union Finance Minister acknowledged the States' request to enhance the outlay under SASCI, which supports critical infrastructure development.

Additional Allocation Under SASCI for FY 2024-25:An additional Rs. 30,000 crore allocated as "Untied Funds" under SASCI-2024-25.

5) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Bajaj Finance has decided to exit the co-branded credit card space by ending its eight-year tie-up with RBL Bank and DBS Bank India.

Reason for the Exit:The exit follows a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) direction that restricted co-brand partners to only sourcing cards and providing access to cardholders for goods/services offered.

Detailed Explanation:

Bajaj Finance has decided to exit the co-branded credit card space by ending its eight-year tie-up with RBL Bank and DBS Bank India.

Reason for the Exit:The exit follows a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) direction that restricted co-brand partners to only sourcing cards and providing access to cardholders for goods/services offered.

Details of Bajaj Finance's Partnerships:RBL Bank partnered with Bajaj Finance in 2016 to issue co-branded credit cards for five years, and the partnership was renewed for another five years in 2021.

DBS Bank India launched its credit card with Bajaj Finance in June 2022, with a credit card base of 500,000, most of which were co-branded.

6) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 will take place from January 17 to 22 across Delhi NCR, showcasing India's growing prominence in the global mobility landscape.

Participation: Delegations from 13 countries, including Germany, Japan, and the USA, will present cutting-edge solutions across the automotive value chain.

Detailed Explanation:

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 will take place from January 17 to 22 across Delhi NCR, showcasing India's growing prominence in the global mobility landscape.

With over 1,500 exhibitors and an anticipated 500,000 visitors, the event is poised to become the world's second-largest auto show.

It will feature leading automotive giants and focus on sustainable and electric mobility technologies.

Key Segments:

Auto Expo Motor Show

Auto Expo Components Show

Construction Equipment Expo

Participation: Delegations from 13 countries, including Germany, Japan, and the USA, will present cutting-edge solutions across the automotive value chain.

Spotlight on electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel, and biofuel-powered vehicles.

Participation from EV pioneers like Ather Energy, Ola Electric, and Vayve Mobility.

7) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The European Union (EU) has approved Bulgaria and Romania as full members of the Schengen zone, effective from the start of next year, ending a 13-year wait.

Bulgaria and Romania, EU members since 2007, were partially integrated into the Schengen zone in March 2024, allowing air and sea travel without border checks.

Detailed Explanation:

The European Union (EU) has approved Bulgaria and Romania as full members of the Schengen zone, effective from the start of next year, ending a 13-year wait.

Bulgaria and Romania, EU members since 2007, were partially integrated into the Schengen zone in March 2024, allowing air and sea travel without border checks.

Established in 1985, the Schengen zone currently has 29 members, including 25 EU member states and four non-EU countries: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

It is the world's largest borderless area, allowing free travel for over 400 million people within the zone.

8) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Moldova has officially signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, reinforcing its commitment to promoting renewable energy.

The ISA was conceptualized during COP21 in Paris in 2015 as a collaborative initiative between India and France.

Headquarters: The ISA is headquartered in Gurugram,Haryana, India.

Detailed Explanation:

Moldova has officially signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, reinforcing its commitment to promoting renewable energy.

The ISA was conceptualized during COP21 in Paris in 2015 as a collaborative initiative between India and France.

Headquarters: The ISA is headquartered in Gurugram,Haryana, India.

ISA's Mission and Goals:The mission of the ISA is to unite global efforts in combating climate change through the implementation of solar energy solutions.

Key goals under the ISA’s 'Towards 1000' strategy:

Mobilizing USD 1,000 billion of investments in solar energy by 2030.

Providing energy access to 1,000 million people.

Achieving the installation of 1,000 GW of solar energy capacity.

Membership and Eligibility:The ISA currently has 104 member countries and 16 signatory countries.

The ISA Framework Agreement came into force in 2017, and following its amendment in 2020, all United Nations member states became eligible to join the ISA.

9) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Tanzania will be the partner country for the International Gita Mahotsav held from November 28 to December 15 in Kurukshetra, Haryana.

Tanzania also participated as a partner country in the International Surajkund Crafts Fair held in February.

Detailed Explanation:

Tanzania will be the partner country for the International Gita Mahotsav held from November 28 to December 15 in Kurukshetra, Haryana.

Tanzania also participated as a partner country in the International Surajkund Crafts Fair held in February.

The International Gita Mahotsav will help enhance the partnership between India and Tanzania.

Tanzanian ministers are expected to participate in the event.

The International Gita Mahotsav is a cultural event celebrating the Bhagavad Gita, along with Indian culture, spirituality, and heritage.

The 2024 International Gita Mahotsav will be held in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from November 28 to December 15.

10) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Leaders from the G20 Troika — India, Brazil, and South Africa unveiled a landmark joint declaration focused on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data for governance.

The declaration was made amidst global economic growth at just over 3%, the lowest rate since the turn of the century.

Detailed Explanation:

Leaders from the G20 Troika — India, Brazil, and South Africa unveiled a landmark joint declaration focused on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data for governance.

The declaration was made amidst global economic growth at just over 3%, the lowest rate since the turn of the century.

The declaration emphasizes the transformative power of technology to address global inequality and accelerate progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Principles for Digital Systems:The declaration proposes that digital systems should follow key foundational principles to ensure inclusivity and adaptability:

Open

Modular

Interoperable

Scalable

11) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), announced the Sanjeevani Yojana for senior citizens (60+ years) in Delhi.

Under the scheme, elderly citizens will receive free treatment at both government and private hospitals with no upper limit on the treatment costs.

Detailed Explanation:

Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), announced the Sanjeevani Yojana for senior citizens (60+ years) in Delhi.

Under the scheme, elderly citizens will receive free treatment at both government and private hospitals with no upper limit on the treatment costs.

This announcement follows a dispute between AAP and BJP regarding the Ayushman Bharat scheme's non-implementation in Delhi.

BJP MPs filed a petition in the Delhi High Court seeking directions for the Delhi government to implement the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi directed the Health Department to create a mechanism that incorporates the Ayushman Bharat benefits without withdrawing the existing free healthcare services in Delhi.

Sanjeevani Yojana is being presented as an extension of the free healthcare system in Delhi.

12) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Haryana government is undertaking a major administrative restructuring, with plans to create four new districts after municipal elections.

Manesar is a crucial center for manufacturing and logistics, with substantial industrial and urban development.

Proposals are also under consideration to grant district status to Assandh (Karnal), Hansi (Hisar), Dabwali (Sirsa), and Gohana (Sonipat).

Detailed Explanation:

The Haryana government is undertaking a major administrative restructuring, with plans to create four new districts after municipal elections.

Manesar, currently part of Gurgaon, is a prime candidate for district status due to its industrial importance and demographic growth.

A committee headed by Cabinet Minister Krishan Lal Panwar has been set up to evaluate proposals for new districts.

Manesar is a crucial center for manufacturing and logistics, with substantial industrial and urban development.

Proposals are also under consideration to grant district status to Assandh (Karnal), Hansi (Hisar), Dabwali (Sirsa), and Gohana (Sonipat).

The initiative is part of a broader strategy coinciding with the 2026 delimitation exercise, which may increase Haryana's assembly seats from 90 to 126 and Lok Sabha constituencies from 10 to 14 by 2029.

13) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

India and Japan have formed a strategic alliance to address the increasing challenge of space debris, leveraging advanced technologies and expanding their collaboration in the space sector.

This partnership not only focuses on space debris removal using laser-equipped satellites but also includes joint efforts in lunar exploration, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing global space endeavors.

Detailed Explanation:

India and Japan have formed a strategic alliance to address the increasing challenge of space debris, leveraging advanced technologies and expanding their collaboration in the space sector.

This partnership not only focuses on space debris removal using laser-equipped satellites but also includes joint efforts in lunar exploration, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing global space endeavors.

Collaborators:

Orbital Lasers (Japan)

InspeCity (India)

Objective: Develop and deploy laser-equipped satellites to vaporize space debris, clearing orbital pathways for safer spacecraft operations.

Progress:

Orbital Lasers has raised $5.8 million, while InspeCity secured $1.5 million in funding.

Testing of the laser technology is planned post-2027.

LUPEX Mission Overview:

Scheduled for 2026, the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission will explore the Moon’s polar regions for water ice and other resources.

14) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old Indian-American born in Chennai, India, has been crowned Miss India USA 2024 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey.

Currently a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, Caitlin aspires to empower women and promote literacy while pursuing her dreams in web design, modeling, and acting.

Detailed Explanation:

Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old Indian-American born in Chennai, India, has been crowned Miss India USA 2024 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey.

Currently a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, Caitlin aspires to empower women and promote literacy while pursuing her dreams in web design, modeling, and acting.

Other Category Winners

Mrs. India USA 2024: Sanskriti Sharma (Illinois).

Miss Teen India USA 2024: Arshita Kathpalia (Washington).

Runners-Up

Miss India USA

First Runner-Up: Nirali Desia (Illinois).

Second Runner-Up: Manini Patel (New Jersey).

Mrs. India USA

First Runner-Up: Sapna Mishra (Virginia).

Second Runner-Up: Chinmayee Ayachit (Connecticut).

Miss Teen India USA

First Runner-Up: Dhriti Patel (Rhode Island).

Second Runner-Up: Sonali Sharma.

15) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Francois Bayrou as the new Prime Minister of France following a no-confidence vote against the previous government.

Francois Bayrou is the 4th Prime Minister appointed in 2024, with Michel Barnier being the previous Prime Minister, who served only three months.

In January 2024, Gabriel Attal became the youngest Prime Minister of France.

Detailed Explanation:

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Francois Bayrou as the new Prime Minister of France following a no-confidence vote against the previous government.

Francois Bayrou is the 4th Prime Minister appointed in 2024, with Michel Barnier being the previous Prime Minister, who served only three months.

Michel Barnier holds the record for the shortest serving Prime Minister in French history, having served for only three months.

The Prime Minister of France is the head of government in the French Republic, holding the second-highest office in the country after the President.

In January 2024, Gabriel Attal became the youngest Prime Minister of France.

16) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been elected as Namibia’s first female president, securing 57% of the vote in the November 27, 2024 election.

Detailed Explanation:

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been elected as Namibia’s first female president, securing 57% of the vote in the November 27, 2024 election.

Nandi-Ndaitwah represents Namibia's ruling party, SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization), which has been in power since Namibia's independence in 1990.

She defeated PanduleniItula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), who garnered 26% of the vote.

17) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Masato Kanda has been elected as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Kanda, aged 59, is currently serving as Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.

Detailed Explanation:

Masato Kanda has been elected as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Kanda, aged 59, is currently serving as Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.

He will assume office as ADB President on February 24, 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa, whose term ends on February 23, 2025.

Kanda will complete the remainder of Asakawa’s term, which runs until November 23, 2026.

18) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Actor Pankaj Tripathi has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Madhya Pradesh Tourism.

The Madhya Pradesh government is planning to develop 50 offbeat destinations to attract more tourists.

Detailed Explanation:

Actor Pankaj Tripathi has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Madhya Pradesh Tourism.

The Madhya Pradesh government is planning to develop 50 offbeat destinations to attract more tourists.

The Madhya Pradesh Tourism department aims to promote the state's diverse offerings, which include:

Wildlife sanctuaries

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Spiritual landmarks

Cultural landmarks

19) Answer: B

Short Explanation:

Former football player Mikheil Kavelashvili became the President of Georgia.

Kavelashvili won the election with an easy victory, being the sole candidate on the ballot.

Detailed Explanation:

Former football player Mikheil Kavelashvili became the President of Georgia.

Kavelashvili won the election with an easy victory, being the sole candidate on the ballot.

Salome Zourabichvili, a pro-Western leader, has served as the President of Georgia since 2018.

Her six-year term ended with the election of Mikheil Kavelashvili.

Mikheil Kavelashvili started his career at Dinamo Tbilisi, a major Georgian football club.

He won three premier division titles with Dinamo Tbilisi before transferring to Manchester City in 1995.

20) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Detailed Explanation:

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved UltraTech Cement Ltd's (UltraTech) proposed acquisition of The India Cements Limited (India Cements).

Proposed Acquisition Details:UltraTech will acquire 32.72% of India Cements' paid-up equity share capital from promoters and Sri Saradha Logistics Private Limited.

Additionally, UltraTech will acquire up to 26% of India Cements’ paid-up equity capital through an open offer.

Financials of the Deal:UltraTech's acquisition plan was first announced in July 2024, intending to purchase a 32.72% stake in India Cements for ₹3,954 crore.

Regulatory Process:The CCI issued a notice on December 6, 2024, under Section 29(1) of the Competition Act, 2002, seeking clarifications from UltraTech regarding potential competition concerns.

Legal Advisory:J Sagar Associates (JSA) acted as the sole advisor to UltraTech in securing the unconditional approval from the CCI.

21) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the procurement of 155 mm/52 calibre K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for the Indian Army.

The total cost of the procurement is Rs 7,628.70 crore.

Detailed Explanation:

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the procurement of 155 mm/52 calibre K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for the Indian Army.

The total cost of the procurement is Rs 7,628.70 crore.

Purpose: The procurement is aimed at modernizing the artillery and enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Army.

Capabilities of K9 VAJRA-T:It offers cross-country mobility and precision in deep strikes.

Equipped with advanced technology for long-range, accurate, and high-rate-of-fire capabilities.

Employment Generation: The project will generate over nine lakh man-days of employment over the next four years.

22) Answer: A

Short Explanation:

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong set a new world record for the longest single spacewalk on December 20, 2024.

Their spacewalk lasted for 9 hours and 9 minutes, surpassing the previous record of 8 hours 56 minutes set by NASA astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms in 2001 during a mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

Detailed Explanation:

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong set a new world record for the longest single spacewalk on December 20, 2024.

Their spacewalk lasted for 9 hours and 9 minutes, surpassing the previous record of 8 hours 56 minutes set by NASA astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms in 2001 during a mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

It highlights China’s advancements in space technology and the growing capabilities of its astronauts and space missions.

Spacesuit Technology:The astronauts wore the second-generation ‘Feitian’ spacesuits, which were designed to support up to eight hours of external work.

Astronaut Milestones:SongLingdongbecame the first Chinese astronaut born in the 1990s to complete a spacewalk.

23) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

Nafithromycinis India’s first indigenous Macrolide antibiotic, developed by Wockhardt with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).

Development involved an investment of ₹500 crores.

Detailed Explanation:

Nafithromycinis India’s first indigenous Macrolide antibiotic, developed by Wockhardt with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).

The drug is marketed as "Miqnaf" and specifically targets Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria, which significantly affects vulnerable groups, including children.

It showcases India's capability in addressing AMR through pharmaceutical advancements.

Clinical Trials and Investment:The drug has undergone extensive clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.

Development involved an investment of ₹500 crores.

24) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

China's first atmospheric monitoring station in Antarctica, the Zhongshan National Atmospheric Background Station, began operations.

It aims to monitor climate changes in Antarctica and support the global response to climate change.

This station is China's ninth operational atmospheric monitoring station, marking its first overseas monitoring station.

China is also testing 10 new atmospheric monitoring stations within its own borders.

Global Research Presence in Antarctica:There are 70 permanent research stations in Antarctica from 29 countries, highlighting the global interest in climate and environmental monitoring.

Detailed Explanation:

China's first atmospheric monitoring station in Antarctica, the Zhongshan National Atmospheric Background Station, began operations.

It aims to monitor climate changes in Antarctica and support the global response to climate change.

This station is China's ninth operational atmospheric monitoring station, marking its first overseas monitoring station.

China is also testing 10 new atmospheric monitoring stations within its own borders.

Global Research Presence in Antarctica:There are 70 permanent research stations in Antarctica from 29 countries, highlighting the global interest in climate and environmental monitoring.

India's Presence in Antarctica:India has two active research stations: Maitri and Bharti.

The first Indian research station, Dakshin Gangotri, was set up in 1983 but was abandoned after sinking in snow.

Other Countries in Antarctica:The US operates six research stations, and Australia has three in Antarctica.

Antarctic Treaty:China signed the Antarctic Treaty in 1983, which designates Antarctica as a natural reserve and bans commercial resource extraction.

25) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

India is set to host the 2025 Para Athletics World Championships for the first time, marking a historic milestone in its sporting journey.

The event will be held from September 26 to October 5, 2025, at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, further cementing India’s growing role in promoting inclusivity in sports.

Detailed Explanation:

India is set to host the 2025 Para Athletics World Championships for the first time, marking a historic milestone in its sporting journey.

The event will be held from September 26 to October 5, 2025, at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, further cementing India’s growing role in promoting inclusivity in sports.

The stadium will also host the World Para Athletics Grand Prix from March 11-13, 2025.

Participants: Over 1,000 athletes from more than 100 nations.

Qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games.

The event is a key step in India’s bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.

Strengthens its case for a potential bid to host the 2036 Olympics.

26) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Union Minister SM Krishna passed away at the age of 92.

Detailed Explanation:

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Union Minister SM Krishna passed away at the age of 92.

SM Krishna served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka from October 11, 1999, to May 20, 2004.

He served as the Governor of Maharashtra from December 6, 2004, to March 8, 2008.

He was a delegate for India at the United Nations in 1982 and participated in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in New Zealand in 1965.

He was also a delegate at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Seminar at Westminster in 1990.

27) Answer: C

Short Explanation:

Economic historian Amiya Kumar Bagchi passed away.

He was the official historian of the State Bank of India (SBI) from 1976 to 1998.

He was the founder-director of the Institute of Development Studies, Kolkata. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2005.

Detailed Explanation:

Economic historian Amiya Kumar Bagchi passed away.

He authored books such as Private Investment in India 1900-1939, The Political Economy of Underdevelopment and Perilous Passage.

In the beginning, he was a mathematical economist and game theorist.

He later turned to economic history.

He was the official historian of the State Bank of India (SBI) from 1976 to 1998.

He was the founder-director of the Institute of Development Studies, Kolkata. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2005.

28) Answer: D

Short Explanation:

National Mathematics Day 2024 is observed on the 22nd of December 2024.

The theme for National Mathematics Day 2024 is "Mathematics: Bridge to innovation".

Detailed Explanation:

National Mathematics Day 2024 is observed on the 22nd of December 2024.

The theme for National Mathematics Day 2024 is "Mathematics: Bridge to innovation".

The renowned mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, whose works had a widespread impact both in India and around the world, is the driving force behind the establishment of Mathematics Day in that country.

Ramanujan was born in 1887 to an Iyengar Brahmin family in Erode, Tamil Nadu. Despite having little formal schooling, he mastered trigonometry at the age of 12 and created a number of his own theorems.

29) Answer: E

Short Explanation:

Kisan Diwas 2024 is observed on the 23rd of December 2024.

Kisan Diwas 2024 is celebrated for the birth anniversary of Chaudhry Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India.

Detailed Explanation:

Kisan Diwas 2024 is observed on the 23rd of December 2024.

Kisan Diwas 2024 is celebrated for the birth anniversary of Chaudhry Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India.

By promoting and helping pass many measures for farmers' reforms, Singh was instrumental in changing India's agricultural sector both before and after independence.

After the Janata Party was defeated, Singh succeeded Prime Minister Morarji Desai, serving in that position from 1979 to 1980.

Singh worked to improve the lives of Indian farmers throughout his brief tenure as prime minister.

30) Answer: B

About Georgia :

Prime Minister : Irakli Kobakhidze

Capital : Tbilisi

Currency : Georgian Lari