Correct Answer : New Zealand
India and New Zealand formalized a Bilateral Customs Cooperation Arrangement on 8 August 2024 during President Droupadi Murmu’s official visit to New Zealand. This agreement aims to simplify trade procedures between the two nations. President Murmu’s visit to New Zealand was part of a broader three-nation tour, which also included Fiji and Timor Leste, highlighting the strengthening of international ties and cooperation.
Correct Answer : 109
On August 11, 2024, the Prime Minister introduced 109 new seed varieties designed to be high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified. Developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, these seeds cover 61 different crops, including both field and horticultural varieties. The goal of this initiative is to boost farm productivity, enhance nutritional quality, and improve the income of farmers. This release represents a significant step towards advancing agricultural practices and adapting to climate challenges.
Correct Answer : 2009
The Right to Education (RTE) Act was enacted in 2009 by the Indian Parliament to operationalize the 86th Constitutional Amendment, which introduced Article 21 A. This article ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years. The RTE Act, which became effective on April 1, 2010, mandates that no fees be charged for education and sets out the duties of state governments and local authorities. It also establishes guidelines for teacher-student ratios and prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment in schools.
Correct Answer : Nepal
NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of India's National Payments Corporation, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 100,000 cross-border Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Person-to-Merchant (P2M) transactions in Nepal. This accomplishment follows NIPL's collaboration with Fonepay, Nepal's largest payment network, which was launched in March 2024. Additionally, NIPL has partnered with Nepal SBI Bank Limited to operationalize RuPay cards in Nepal, further strengthening cross-border financial transactions between India and Nepal.
Correct Answer : August 10
World Biofuel Day is observed annually on August 10th. This day commemorates the pioneering achievement of Sir Rudolf Diesel, who successfully ran an engine using peanut oil on August 9, 1893. World Biofuel Day serves as a global platform to highlight the importance of biofuels as a sustainable energy source and their role in mitigating climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. In 2024, the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) hosted a special event to explore advancements in biofuels and their contribution to global Net Zero CO2 emission targets.
Correct Answer : India
India has launched the "AI Bharat 5G/6G Sandbox" hackathon in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This initiative aims to integrate Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies into 5G and 6G networks. The hackathon provides global mentorship opportunities and rewards for the winners, marking a significant contribution to technological innovation. It also serves as a prominent feature of the upcoming World Telecommunications Standardization Assembly (WTSA) in New Delhi, highlighting India's commitment to advancing global telecommunications standards.
Correct Answer : Tata Group
The Tata Group has recently launched a significant semiconductor assembly and testing facility in Assam, with an investment of ?27,000 crore. This facility is set to produce 15 billion chips annually and aims to create 27,000 job opportunities. It represents a crucial step in advancing India’s semiconductor industry and enhancing the region's role in the global electronics market. Tata Electronics, a part of the Tata Group, will lead this project, which is expected to contribute significantly to the technological and economic growth of Assam.
Correct Answer : Assam
Assam has launched the 'HaatiApp' to mitigate Human-Elephant conflicts, which is supported by Aaranyak and the SBI Foundation. This early warning system aims to alert communities about the presence of wild elephants, thus reducing the frequency of conflicts. Additionally, the app helps streamline applications for ex-gratia compensation for damages caused by elephants. To further support these efforts, Aaranyak has also introduced an Assamese handbook on solar-powered fences, providing essential guidance on installation and maintenance to protect both humans and elephants.
Correct Answer : Harish Dudani
Harish Dudani was appointed as a Member of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) on August 6, 2024. His appointment was announced by the Power Ministry, and he took the Oath of Office and Secrecy on the same day. CERC, established under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act of 1998 and functioning under the Electricity Act of 2003, is responsible for regulating tariffs, licensing for inter-state transmission, and adjudicating disputes within the electricity sector.
Correct Answer : Goa
The Goa ST Reservation Bill 2024 was introduced to address the representation of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa Assembly. While Goa's Assembly currently has a reserved seat for Scheduled Castes (SCs), it lacks reserved seats for STs despite its growing population. This bill aims to amend the delimitation order to include ST reservations, reflecting longstanding demands and the demographic changes in the state. The move is a significant step towards more equitable representation of ST communities in Goa’s legislative process.
