General Knowledge(GK) (or) General Awareness

Correct Answer :   8.9%

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India's GST collections in October 2024 surged to Rs 1.87 lakh crore, marking an 8.9% increase year-on-year.

This growth is attributed to stronger domestic transactions, with domestic GST revenue growing by 10.6% year-on-year, outpacing the 3.9% growth in GST revenue from imports.

The robust collection represents the second-highest level of monthly GST collections since the indirect tax regime's inception in July 2017. This rebound follows a three-year low growth rate in September, indicating a positive trend in the economy.

Correct Answer :   Indonesia

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The Indian Army is participating in the 9th edition of the joint exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24 with Indonesia.

A contingent of 25 personnel from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) has been dispatched to Jakarta for the exercise, scheduled from November 1 to 12, 2024.

The joint exercise aims to enhance interoperability and sharing of expertise between the two nations' special forces.

It will focus on advanced skills, weapons, tactics, and techniques, culminating in a validation exercise to integrate these capabilities.

This bilateral exercise strengthens the military ties and cooperation between India and Indonesia.

Correct Answer :   IndusInd Bank

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IndusInd Bank has collaborated with Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited to offer collateral-free solar financing solutions to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in India.

This partnership aims to promote sustainability, reduce operational costs, and facilitate easy access to solar energy financing for MSEs.

The bank will provide loans ranging from ?10 lakhs to ?2 crores with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms of up to seven years.

This initiative reflects IndusInd Bank's commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into its operations and promoting sustainable finance practices.

Correct Answer :   Goa Shipyard Limited

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Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has launched two indigenous fast patrol vessels, Adamya and Akshar, designed to enhance the protection of offshore assets, and island territories, and conduct surveillance operations for the Indian Coast Guard.

GSL is constructing a total of eight fast patrol vessels (FPVs) for the Coast Guard, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision of self-reliance in defence production. The vessels, measuring 52 meters in length and 8 meters in breadth, demonstrate GSL's capabilities in designing and building advanced maritime assets for India's defence forces.

Correct Answer :   Mumbai

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The Asian Arm Wrestling Cup 2024 took place at the Aurika Skycity Hotel in Mumbai, where India secured a commendable runner-up position in the overall team standings.

The Indian team finished second in the medal tally, only behind Kazakhstan, the top-ranking nation in arm wrestling.

The event saw participation from nine countries, competing in six categories and various weight divisions.

Mumbai hosted this prestigious arm wrestling tournament, showcasing India's growing presence in the sport.

Correct Answer :   DBS Bank

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DBS Bank India has been named one of the Best Companies for Women in India (BCWI) 2024 for an impressive ninth consecutive year.

This recognition, conferred by Avtar and Seramount, places DBS Bank in the esteemed "Best Companies - Hall of Fame."

The bank's commitment to gender diversity and inclusion is evident in its goal to increase female representation in its workforce from 31% to 35% over the next three years.

DBS Bank's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council and DEI Champions drive this initiative, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Correct Answer :   Defence sector

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The Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative has had a profound impact on India's defence sector, leading to substantial growth and reforms.

Defence production has seen a remarkable 174% increase from ?46 thousand crore in 2014-15 to over ?1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24.

Additionally, defence exports have skyrocketed from ?686 crore in 2013-14 to over ?21 thousand crore in 2023-24.

The development of key platforms such as the Dhanush Gun System, ATAGS, Tank Arjun, Tejas, and submarines further underscores the sector's transformation.

This growth demonstrates the initiative's success in boosting India's self-reliance in defence.

Correct Answer :   Australia

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Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade announced his retirement from international cricket on Tuesday (29th Oct 2024), concluding a 13-year career with 225 international appearances for Australia.

The 36-year-old leaves the international stage after representing Australia in three T20 World Cups, most memorably playing a key role in Australia’s maiden 20-over title win in Dubai in 2021 as vice-captain. Wade shone in that tournament, with a standout innings of 41* from just 17 balls in a thrilling semi-final win over Pakistan, marking a high point in his career.

In Tests, Wade made 36 appearances, amassing 1,613 runs, including four centuries and five fifties, averaging 29.87, with a career-best of 117 in the fifth Ashes Test against England at The Oval in 2019. He also played 97 ODIs, scoring 1,867 runs at an average of 26.29, with one century and 11 fifties to his name. In T20Is, he scored 1,202 runs across 92 matches at an average of 26.03 and a strike rate of 134.15, including three half-centuries and a best score of 80.

Though retiring from international cricket, Wade will continue playing domestically in Australia and participate in franchise leagues globally. Additionally, he is stepping into coaching, joining Australia’s coaching staff for the upcoming T20I series at home against Pakistan.

Looking ahead, Wade shared, “I knew my international days were likely ending after the last T20 World Cup. Retirement and coaching have been frequent topics of discussion with George (Bailey) and Andrew (McDonald) over the past six months.”

“Coaching has been on my radar for a few years, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. While I’ll still play in the BBL and occasional franchise leagues, my focus is now on developing as a coach,” he added.

“As I wrap up my international career, I want to thank my Australian teammates, staff, and coaches. The journey has been challenging, but with the support of those around me, I got the best out of myself.”..

Source : DD News

Correct Answer :   Smriti Mandhana

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Indian women cricketer Smriti Mandhana has become the woman cricketer to score most centuries for India in ODI cricket.

She scored her 8th century in ODI, with this she became the woman cricketer scoring most centuries for India. She has surpassed Mithali Raj's record of 7 ODI centuries.   

Correct Answer :   Aitana Bonmati

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Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmatí has won the 2024 Women's Ballon d'Or.

Bonmatí earned the award for the second year in a row after her six goals and six assists in the Women's Champions League helped Barça to their third title, the Spain international scoring the opener in the 2-0 final victory against Lyon in Bilbao. Bonmatí also impressed as Barça won a domestic treble.

Women's Ballon d'Or top ten :

1. Aitana Bonmatí (Spain, Barcelona)
2. Caroline Graham Hansen (Norway, Barcelona)
3. Salma Paralluelo (Spain, Barcelona)
4. Sophia Smith (USA, Portland Thorns)
5. Lindsey Horan (USA, Lyon)
6. Mallory Swanson (USA, Chicago Red Stars)
7. Marie-Antoinette Katoto (France, Paris Saint-Germain)
8. Mariona Caldentey (Spain, Barcelona / Arsenal)
9. Trinity Rodman (USA, Washington Spirit)
10. Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona).


Source : Uefa