General Knowledge(GK) (or) General Awareness

Correct Answer :   Amit Shah

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Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah released the 'Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Memories Never Die' book in Rameshwaram, 29th July 2023.

The Union Home Minister  visited Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam House, Mission of Life Gallery Museum and Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam National Memorial. He also visited the Vivekananda Memorial. Shri Amit Shah also offered prayers at the world famous Rameshwaram temple.

In his tweet, he said that the Rameswaram temple is  symbol of the ancient and glorious Sanatan Culture. Lord Shri Ram worshiped Lord Shiva at Shri Rameshwaram which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Having darshan here on the auspicious occasion of 'Aadi Thiruvizha', is a very fortunate and a great feeling. I have prayed to Bholenath for the well-being of the countrymen and the prosperity of the nation. Several dignitaries including Union Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan were present on the occasion of the release of the book 'Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Memories Never Die'.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that this book would prove to be very helpful in understanding the struggle of an ordinary boy born in a poor household in Rameshwaram to reach the highest peak of Indian politics. He added that this book brings to the readers  Dr. Kalam's love for literature and art, his exhortations about the poems of Thirukural and Bharthiyar and many unknown aspects of his life. Shri Shah said that Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was a great team player. He implemented the principles of management in his life.

Shri Amit Shah said that Dr. Kalam proved that humanity is the biggest religion. As President, Dr. Kalam set such examples that are worth emulating for people in public life for many years. Shri Shah said that once 52 members of Dr. Kalam's family stayed in Rashtrapati Bhavan for 9 days. The people who live in Rashtrapati Bhavan are state guests, but Dr. Abdul Kalam had deposited the bill of Rs 9.52 Lakh for their stay of 9 days in Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This gesture of Dr. Kalam is a shining example of transparency in public life. He said that Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam never associated himself with His Excellency. This is the reason why the people of India still remember him with great respect as the People's President. He said that Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam had a lot of respect for the officers and brave soldiers of the army in his heart.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister said that Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has said in his book Wings of Fire that my story will end with me as I have no family. But this is not true, 140 crore Indians are his family who will always be proud of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Shri Shah said that in the history of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam will always be remembered by every child of India as a visionary, scientist and simple living person and a great patriot..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   PSLV-C56

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C56) today from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The PSLV-C56 was launched from the first launch pad at around 6.30 am, 30 July 2023.

#WATCH | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches its PSLV-C56 with six co-passenger satellites from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota.

(Source: ISRO) pic.twitter.com/2I1pNvKvBH

— ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2023

Primary Payload Of The PSLV-C56 Mission :

The main payload of the mission is the DS-SAR satellite, equipped with a Synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) capable of generating two-dimensional images or three-dimensional reconstructions of objects.

The DS-SAR satellite, weighing 360 kg, is a joint effort between DSTA, representing the Government of Singapore, and ST Engineering.

Aim : It aims to fulfill the imagery requirements of various Singapore government agencies and ST Engineering’s commercial clients.

Launched into a Near-equatorial Orbit (NEO) at an altitude of 535 km, the satellite carries an SAR payload developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). This payload enables all-weather day and night coverage and has the capacity to capture images with a remarkable 1-meter resolution at full polarimetry.

With this high-resolution capability, the Singapore government can effectively assess damage caused by natural disasters, monitor land use, track deforestation, and support security and defence operations. Additionally, commercial customers can utilize the satellite for applications such as oil and gas exploration, agriculture monitoring, and infrastructure assessment.

Other Payloads : In addition to the DS-SAR satellite, six co-passenger satellites have been launched into space. These include VELOX-AM, a microsatellite for technology demonstration; ARCADE, an experimental satellite for exploring atmospheric coupling and dynamics; SCOOB-II, a nanosatellite carrying a technology demonstrator payload; NuLIoN by NuSpace, an advanced nanosatellite enabling seamless IoT connectivity in both urban and remote areas; Galassia-2, a nanosatellite in low earth orbit; and ORB-12 STRIDER, a satellite developed through international collaboration.

PSLV-C56 : This marks the 58th flight of PSLV and the 17th flight of PSLV in Core Alone configuration. Once all the satellites are deployed, the upper stage of the rocket will be maneuvered into a lower orbit to minimize its orbital life. The PSLV-C56 was launched from the First Launch Pad (FLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, as stated by ISRO.

The PSLV-C56 mission not only showcases India’s expertise in space technology but also reinforces international collaborations in space research.

Correct Answer :   HDFC Bank

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Swiggy, a popular food delivery platform, has collaborated with HDFC Bank to launch a co-branded credit card. This move follows the trend of various ecommerce platforms partnering with banks to introduce similar credit cards.

The Swiggy-HDFC co-branded credit card will be facilitated by Mastercard’s payment network. The primary aim of this partnership is to enhance customer retention and increase the average order value on the Swiggy platform by providing enticing benefits to cardholders.

Key features of the Swiggy co-branded credit card include :

Cashback on Swiggy platform :

* Cardholders will receive a 10% cashback for transactions made on the Swiggy platform.
* This cashback is applicable for spends related to food delivery, quick commerce grocery delivery, and dining out.


Cashback on major ecommerce platforms :

* Additionally, the card offers a 5% cashback on purchases made on prominent ecommerce platforms.
* These platforms include Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Nykaa, Ola, and branded fashion websites like Nike, H&M, Adidas, Zara, and others.

Correct Answer :   Aditya Samant

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Aditya Samant became India’s 83rd Grandmaster after earning his third GM norm at the Master Tournament (MTO) in the Biel International Chess Festival 2023.

The Maharashtra player had earned his first norm to become a grandmaster at the Abu Dhabi Masters in August  2022

To become a GM, a player has to secure three GM norms and cross the live rating of 2,500 Elo points and his live rating going into the ninth round game is 2525.4.

He secured his second GM norm at the 3rd El Llobregat Open in December 2022.

BREAKING News: Aditya Samant becomes India's 83rd Grandmaster

IM Aditya S Samant became India's 83rd Grandmaster when he started his 9th round game against Aryan Chopra at the #BielChess MTO 2023. Drawing his 8th round game against Bu Xiangzhi, all Aditya needed to achieve his… pic.twitter.com/EG986RAmWD

— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) July 26, 2023

Correct Answer :   Union Bank of India

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Union Bank of India has joined forces with IBM India Pvt Ltd to embark on a comprehensive digital transformation. This strategic partnership signifies a significant milestone in the evolution of the bank and promises to revolutionize the way customers interact with their financial services.

The primary objective of this collaboration is to establish a state-of-the-art Digital Business Platform that caters to the ever-evolving needs of modern-day banking.

By embracing the power of cutting-edge technology, Union Bank of India aims to provide its customers with seamless and efficient banking experiences. This forward-thinking approach focuses on three key elements: omni-channel experiences, data-driven hyper-personalization, and a comprehensive financial services superstore.

The introduction of an omni-channel experience ensures that customers have the flexibility to engage with the bank through various channels, including mobile, online, and in-branch. This multi-dimensional approach enables users to access their accounts anytime, anywhere, ensuring unparalleled convenience.

Furthermore, the integration of data-driven hyper-personalization allows Union Bank of India to cater to the unique financial needs of each individual customer. By utilizing customer data, the bank can offer tailored products and services that align with their preferences and requirements. This level of personalization enhances customer satisfaction and builds long-term relationships between the bank and its clientele.

The Digital Business Platform also introduces a comprehensive financial services superstore, which serves as a one-stop-shop for all banking needs.

This innovative concept enables cross-selling and upselling of financial products, providing customers easy access to a wide range of services. By offering a diverse portfolio within a single platform, Union Bank of India enhances financial inclusion and simplifies the banking experience for its customers.

The commitment to full digital journeys further sets Union Bank of India apart in the competitive banking landscape. By streamlining processes and eliminating unnecessary paperwork, the bank ensures a hassle-free experience for its customers. This digital-first approach allows for faster and more efficient transactions, contributing to enhanced customer satisfaction.

It is worth noting that Union Bank of India’s vision for a future-ready banking ecosystem goes beyond the traditional boundaries of banking. By embracing open banking capabilities.

Aim : The bank aims to foster collaboration with external partners to offer a broader range of services and create a seamless integration experience for customers. This approach showcases the bank’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Overall, Union Bank of India’s collaboration with IBM India Pvt Ltd marks a significant step towards a more customer-centric, technologically advanced banking experience. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and focusing on personalized solutions, the bank demonstrates its commitment to meeting the evolving expectations of its customers. This partnership sets the stage for a digital revolution in the banking industry and paves the way for a brighter, more convenient future of banking services..

Source : Media info line

Correct Answer :   Federal Bank

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Federal Bank, on the occasion of the start of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, has announced the launch of an exclusive NR savings account scheme, specifically curated for NRI women.

* This scheme, named NRE Eve+, is designed to cater to the unique financial needs of NRI women, offering a range of benefits tailored to enhance the financial journey of NRI women.

* The global virtual launch witnessed the unveiling of the product theme by Shyam Srinivasan, MD & CEO, Federal Bank.

* A prototype of the exclusively designed debit card was unveiled and presented to its first NRE Eve+ customer by Shalini Warrier, Executive Director of Federal Bank.

* The first NRE Eve+ holders from Abu Dhabi included Beena Muraleedharan, Executive Director, SFC group, and Danesa Thandassery Raghulal, ED, Elite Foods Pvt Ltd and from Dubai, Jean Shahdadpuri, MD, Nikai Group of Companies.

* With NRE Eve+, account holders will enjoy complimentary access to international and domestic airport lounges, providing a seamless and luxurious travel experience.

* The power-packed NRE Eve+ debit card unlocks a world of customised offers, including exclusive deals on beauty, healthcare, shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment, tailored to suit women’s preferences. Zero balance savings accounts are available for two children below 12 years of age.

* Complimentary insurance coverage is available up to ₹78 Lakh, including child education benefits, accidental death, hospital cash, and card protection.

* Shalini Warrier, Executive Director of Federal Bank, said, this product is designed to incorporate unique features and benefits which will surely be an attractive proposition to our valued women in the diaspora and will contribute to their financial well-being, making a meaningful impact in their lives...

Source : The Hindu Businessline

Correct Answer :   Byculla Railway Station

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The 169-year-old Byculla railway station has bagged the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award 2023 of Merit for cultural heritage restoration and conservation.

On Monday, Union Minister for Railways, Communication, Electronics, and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnav met Shaina NC and congratulated her team and Central Railway for their efforts in the restoration of Byculla station to its original architectural glory.

The Byculla railway station was commissioned in the year 1853.

In July 2019 a huge project to restore the ancient heritage architecture of Byculla railway station, one of India’s oldest stations began.

* This project had been initiated in coordination with Railways by Shaina NC Trustee, I Love Mumbai, in loving memory of her father Ex-Sheriff of Mumbai and Founder of I Love Mumbai and Giants International, late Padmashree Nana Chudasama with the support of Bajaj Trust Groups, and Abha Narain Lambah Associates, as their CSR initiative.

* Minal Bajaj and Niraj Bajaj of Bajaj Group and Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation funded this huge restoration project of over four crore rupees.

* Heritage Conservation Architect Abha Narain Lambah graciously consented to do the project pro bono as their CSR initiative in honor of the city of Mumbai.
 

The task of the entire planning and execution was completed and Byculla railway station was restored to its original, ancient, heritage architecture with excellence on 29.4.2022 at the hands of Raosaheb Dadarao Patil Danve, Minister of State for Railways, Government of India. Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister, Maharashtra, Shaina NC, Trustee, I LOVE MUMBAI, Minal Bajaj and Niraj Bajaj of Bajaj Group and Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation, Heritage Conservation Architect Abha Narain Lambah, Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, presently Chairman & CEO, Railway Board (then General Manager Central Railway), Principal Head of Departments and other Senior Officers of Central Railway were also present.
 
The following works were undertaken :

• Beautification of the main entry/façade of platform number 1 – restoration, lighting, etc.
• Improved and restored exit passage of platform number 1 -(Dadar end)
• Garden area facing the façade restored and beautified
• Restoration of all walls, grills, FOBs
• Renovation of toilets for general and Divyangjan
• Upgradation/beautification of water huts – two each on all platforms
• Restoration and upgradation of benches
• LED lighting at station in heritage scheme
• Repainting and beautification of FOBs
• Heritage wing roof restoration
• Separate ladies toilet and regulation/restoration of the façade of offices/stores along the concourse.

Today, Byculla station stands proudly as a symbol of history and heritage and at the same time a station with the most modern amenities..

Source : Mid-day

Correct Answer :   HDFC Bank

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* India’s largest private lender HDFC Bank has overtaken State Bank of India (SBI) to earn top spot on the list of 2023 CRISIL’s Greenwich market share Leaders in Large Corporate Banking.

* For middle market corporates, HDFC Bank again topped the list of 2023 Leaders among local banks, and joined ICICI Bank as the year’s joint Greenwich Quality Leaders.

* Coalition Greenwich, a division of CRISIL, said many of the gains for large private sector and foreign banks came at the expense of the smaller banks, including some of India’s public sector banks.

* Even among the PSUs, the trend toward consolidation among the largest providers persisted, with SBI doing a better job than smaller banks at maintaining corporate relationships, it added.

* From 2021 to 2022, the share of Indian corporates working with one of the largest Indian private sector banks for overall corporate banking services increased to 38 per cent from 33 per cent.

* Over the same period, the share of corporates working with at least one large foreign bank climbed to 21 per cent from 18 per cent..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   Canberra

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The 8th India-Australia Defence Policy Talks (DPT) was held at Canberra in Australia on 24-25 July 2023.

The Defence policy talks were co-chaired by Special Secretary in Ministry of Defence Smt. Nivedita Shukla Verma, and Acting Deputy Secretary in Department of Defence, Australia Mr Steven Moore.

During the Defence Policy talks, both sides reviewed the bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries and explored new initiatives to further strengthen and deepen bilateral defence engagements.

Aim or Focus : The discussions also focused on identifying ways to strengthen partnership in co-development and co-production of defence equipment. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership based on mutual trust and understanding, common interests and shared values of democracy and rule of law. The Indian side highlighted the potential of the Indian defence industry with capacity and capability to cooperate with Australian Armed forces in its shipbuilding and maintenance plans.

India – Australia share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since June 2020 and defence is a key pillar of this partnership. India and Australia’s partnership is based on a shared vision of a free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The two democracies have a common interest in peace and prosperity of the entire region.

The two countries have 2+2 mechanism at the Ministerial level. The 8th DPT reviewed the outcomes of maiden 2+2 conducted in September 2021. Both sides agreed for early finalization of hydrography agreement. The two sides also exchanged views on geo-political situation, regional and global issues of shared interest.

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Syazrul Ezat Idrus

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Malaysia seamer Syazrul Ezat Idrus on Wednesday (26th July 2023) scripted history in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 Asia Regional Qualifier B tournament, becoming the first player to record a seven-wicket haul in a Men's T20I game.

* Idrus dismantled China's batting set-up to end with the figure of 7-8.

* Riding on his stellar showing with the ball, his team posted a comfortable 8-wicket victory at Bayuemas Oval.

* Only 12 bowlers had previously claimed six-wicket hauls in a Men's T20I. The list includes the India duo of Deepak Chahar and Yuzvendra Chahal, Australia left-arm spinner Ashton Agar and veteran Sri Lankan off-break bowler Ajantha Mendis.

* Idrus, on Wednesday (26th July 2023), became the first bowler to scalp 7 wickets in the game's shortest format.

* The pitch aided Idrus' bowling style, picking up all of his seven wickets by castling batters.

* His heroics with the ball saw China shot out for just 23 runs in 11.2 overs.

* In reply to China's 23, Malaysia lost two quick wickets before chasing down the target in the fifth over.

* The winner of this tournament will feature in the Asia Regional Final in Nepal in November, with the two leading teams from that event making it through to the T20I World Cup 2024.

Source : Times Now News