General Knowledge(GK) (or) General Awareness

Correct Answer :   State Bank of India

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The State Bank of India (SBI) has received the prestigious 'Best Bank in India' award for 2024 from Global Finance Magazine at its 31st Annual Best Bank Awards.

SBI was recognized for its exceptional customer service and commitment to financial inclusion.

With an extensive network of over 22,500 branches and 62,000 ATMs, SBI has also been driving digital growth through its innovative YONO platform.

This award underscores SBI's leadership in India's banking sector, highlighting its dedication to customer satisfaction and financial accessibility. The award was accepted by SBI Chairman Shri C.S. Setty.

Correct Answer :   State Bank of India

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Solex Energy has collaborated with the State Bank of India (SBI) to facilitate financing for solar projects aimed at commercial, industrial, and institutional clients.

Under the Surya Shakti Solar Finance Scheme, SBI will provide loans up to ?10 crore, helping to make solar energy more affordable and accessible.

This partnership will allow Solex Energy to expand solar solutions by supporting clients with site assessments, design, and approvals, while SBI ensures a streamlined loan application process via its digital platform, enhancing solar adoption in India.

Correct Answer :   Slice

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Slice, a fintech firm, has successfully merged with North East Small Finance Bank, integrating its operations, assets, and brands.

Approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), this merger aims to enhance customer experience, introduce new banking products, and strengthen banking services in India's northeastern region.

The combined entity will offer savings accounts, credit services, and other banking products, leveraging the strengths of both organizations. Slice's CEO, Rajan Bajaj, emphasized the importance of exceptional customer experience and strong governance in the merged entity.

Correct Answer :   Italy

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Indian table tennis players Yashaswini Ghorpade and Krittwika Roy won the women’s doubles title at the WTT Feeder Cagliari 2024, held in Italy.

The duo emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over the South Korean team of Yoo Siwoo and Kim Haeun in the final match.

Earlier, they secured their spot in the final by defeating the German fourth seeds Sophia Klee and Franziska Schreiner. This win marks a significant achievement for the Indian team in international table tennis.

Correct Answer :   Tirana

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* The Under-23 Wrestling World Championship is being held in Tirana, Albania.

* India's Abhishek won the bronze medal by defeating Mykyta Abramov of Ukraine 3-0 in the men's 61 kg freestyle category.

* Meanwhile, Bashir Magomedov of Azerbaijan won the gold medal.

Correct Answer :   State Bank of India (SBI)

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State Bank of India (SBI) was recognised as the Best Bank in India for 2024 by Global Finance Magazine of the US at its 31st Annual Best Bank Awards event held during the sidelines of Annual Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank in Washington.

SBI Chairman CS Setty received the award in recognition of the bank's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional services and promoting financial inclusion nationwide by winning the trust of its customers, the bank said in a statement.

For decades, Global Finance's Best Bank Awards have set the trusted standard for evaluating the world's financial institutions, making them invaluable to corporate decision-makers, especially as the global economy faces significant challenges..

Source : Mint

Correct Answer :   6.9-7.1%

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The National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) has revised India's GDP growth forecast for FY25 to a range of 6.9-7.1%.

This adjustment reflects a notable moderation in growth observed during the June quarter, largely due to a significant contraction in net exports and reduced government consumption, influenced by the election model code of conduct.

Previously, NIPFP had estimated a higher growth range of 7.1-7.4%. The downgrade highlights the challenges facing the economy, including a reported 19.5% decrease in capital expenditure during the April-August 2024 period compared to the previous year.

Correct Answer :   New Delhi

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The Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 was held in New Delhi at the Manekshaw Centre, organized by the Indian Army.

The theme of this year’s dialogue, “Drivers in Nation Building: Fueling Growth Through Comprehensive Security,” highlighted the crucial role of security and strategic partnerships in supporting national development.

This two-day event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, defence experts, and international representatives, to discuss how comprehensive security measures contribute to national growth. Discussions aligned with India’s long-term goal, “Viksit Bharat @2047,” aiming to build a secure, prosperous India by 2047.

Correct Answer :   Abhay

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The Indian Navy launched the seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), named 'Abhay,' on October 25 at L&T, Kattupalli.

'Abhay' is built by GRSE as part of an eight-ship contract with the Ministry of Defense (MoD) to replace the Abhay-class ASW corvettes.

Notably, over 80% of the materials used in its construction are indigenous, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and promoting self-reliance in defense shipbuilding. This development enhances local production and employment opportunities in the defence sector.

Correct Answer :   European Investment Bank

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The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed to providing a ?2,800 crore loan to support the development of Bengaluru's suburban railway.

The announcement was made by EIB Vice President Nicola Beer and Karnataka Rail Director Awadhesh Maheta at the Urban Mobility India conference in Gandhinagar.

The loan will be disbursed over five years, contributing to India's urban mobility and workforce inclusivity goals.

Notably, India is the largest EIB transport financing recipient outside Europe, reflecting the country's focus on upgrading its transportation infrastructure.

This investment aims to enhance Bengaluru's connectivity, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable urban growth.