General Knowledge(GK) (or) General Awareness

Correct Answer :   12 Years

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Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) and the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) have imposed significant suspensions on two athletes for anti-doping rule violations. These decisions highlight the unwavering commitment of sporting authorities to maintain fairness, integrity, and a level playing field in athletics.

Rachna Kumari’s 12-Year Suspension :

Hammer thrower Rachna Kumari faces a 12-year suspension for her second anti-doping rule violation, marking a severe penalty that reflects the seriousness with which doping offenses are treated. Kumari tested positive for multiple anabolic androgenic steroids in samples collected both out of competition in Patiala on September 24 and during the National Games on November 1 last year. This suspension comes after Kumari had already served a four-year ban from 2015 to 2019 for a prior doping offense. Her latest suspension commenced on November 24, putting her athletic career on hold and serving as a stern warning to others in the sport.

Nirmala Sheoran’s Eight-Year Ban :

Quarter-miler Nirmala Sheoran, another athlete with a history of doping violations, has been handed an eight-year suspension by NADA for her second offence. Sheoran reportedly tested positive for anabolic androgenic steroids and testosterone, substances known to enhance performance unlawfully. Following a four-year suspension in 2018, this additional penalty significantly impacts Sheoran’s career, sidelining her from competition and emphasizing the consequences of repeated doping violations.

The Path Forward :

These decisions by the AIU and NADA are pivotal in the ongoing efforts to eradicate doping from athletics. By imposing long-term suspensions on athletes who violate anti-doping rules, the authorities send a clear message about their zero-tolerance policy towards doping. It is crucial for athletes, coaches, and support personnel to adhere to the principles of clean sport, ensuring that competition remains fair and untainted by the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

Correct Answer :   Havildar Varinder Singh

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Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh Regiment’s ‘multipurpose octocopter’ is a versatile drone capable of not only conducting surveillance operations but also performing tasks such as grenade dropping, aerial target engagement with weapons like the AK-47, and logistics operations.

President Droupadi Murmu has awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal to Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh Regiment in the Indian Army for his development of a ‘multipurpose octocopter’, an official said.

The ‘multipurpose octocopter’ developed by Singh is a versatile drone capable of not only conducting surveillance operations but also performing tasks such as grenade dropping, aerial target engagement with weapons like the AK-47, and logistics operations.

Meanwhile, Singh added that the ‘multipurpose octocopter’ will prove to be a boon for the Indian Army.

“This is also a weapon drone. With the help of a four-hand grenade MGM rifle, the enemy can be killed with pinpoint accuracy,” he said.

The Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) is a decoration of the Indian Armed Forces. It is given to personnel of all levels in the Indian Armed Forces as an acknowledgement for “distinguished service of a high order.” The medal is crafted from bronze and is adorned with a golden ribbon featuring three dark blue stripes.

The VSM was instituted on January 26, 1960, as VSM Class-III to recognise the distinguished service of a high order. It was renamed on January 27, 1967, as VSM, and it holds the provision to be conferred posthumously..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   $44.9 Billion

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India’s services trade surplus reached an unprecedented $44.9 billion in the October-December quarter of FY24, marking a 16% year-on-year increase. This surge in surplus, amidst challenging global conditions, is anticipated to alleviate the current account deficit (CAD) for the period.

Key Statistics and Outlook :

Services Export Growth : Services exports expanded by 5.2% to $87.7 billion during Q3, while services imports saw a 4.3% contraction, totaling $42.8 billion for the same period.

CAD Trends : The CAD has moderated to 1% of GDP in the first half of FY24, down from 2.9% in FY23, driven by a lower merchandise trade deficit and higher net services receipts.

Projections : Fitch Ratings forecasts a further narrowing of CAD to 1.4% of GDP in FY24 and 2024-25, compared to 2% in FY23, while IDFC Bank revises its estimate to 1.2% of GDP, incorporating the increased monthly services surplus.

Contributors to Services Exports Growth :

IT Dominance : India’s services exports, led by software exports, encompass a broad spectrum ranging from IT services to medical professionals’ services abroad.

Emerging Sectors : “Other business services” exports, notably Global Capability Centers (GCCs), have witnessed significant growth, constituting 26.4% of total services exports in H1 FY24, up from 19% in 2013-14.

Government Targets and Global Position :

Export Goals : The Indian government aims for combined goods and services exports to reach $2 trillion by 2030, leveraging the resilience of the services sector.

Global Trade Share : India holds a 4% share in global commercial services exports and a 3.52% share in global commercial services imports for 2021, while its merchandise trade accounts for 1.77% of world exports and 2.54% of world imports.

Correct Answer :   Shamar Joseph

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International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the winners of the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month for January 2024. West Indies’ Shamar Joseph and Ireland’s Amy Hunter have been bestowed with this honour, marking their remarkable contributions to their respective teams in the past month.

Shamar Joseph: A Sensational Debut

Shamar Joseph’s ascent to cricketing stardom was nothing short of a fairytale. Making his debut for the West Indies during their Test series against Australia, Joseph not only made a memorable entrance but also left an indelible mark with his performance. Claiming the wicket of Steve Smith with his very first ball in international cricket, he set the tone for what was to come.

In Adelaide, Joseph’s first Test outing saw him taking five wickets, including those of cricketing stalwarts Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green. However, it was his spell in the second Test in Brisbane that cemented his place in cricketing folklore. With a line-up that boasted of aggression and precision, Joseph took seven wickets for 68 runs, leading the West Indies to a historic draw against Australia by narrowly defending a total of 216. This performance not only earned him the Player of the Series award but also the ICC Men’s Player of the Month, making him the first West Indian to achieve this feat since its inception in 2021.

Amy Hunter: Rising Star of Ireland

Amy Hunter, on the other hand, has been lighting up the women’s cricket stage with her explosive batting. Her performances in Ireland’s T20I series victory over Zimbabwe were nothing short of spectacular. Starting with a subdued ODI series, Hunter quickly shifted gears in the T20Is, showcasing her batting prowess with scores that included a stunning 101 not out off 66 balls in the first match, followed by 77 and 42 in subsequent games.

With a strike rate of 144.73 across the T20I series, Hunter not only helped Ireland secure a series win but also etched her name as the first Irish player to win the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award since Arlene Kelly in August 2023.

Correct Answer :   5.1%

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In January 2024, India’s retail inflation reached a three-month low of 5.1%, while the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) exhibited a growth of 3.8% in December 2023, showcasing a favorable trend in both sectors.

Retail Inflation at 3-Month Low :

* Consumer Price Index (CPI) indicates a 5.1% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) retail inflation rate in January 2024, down from 5.69% in December and 6.52% in January last year.
* Notable decline attributed to moderation in prices of cereals, milk, and fruit, while vegetables, pulses, and spices sustain double-digit inflation.
* Protein-rich items like meat and eggs experience slight price acceleration.

Industrial Growth Resilience :

* Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grows by 3.8% Y-o-Y in December 2023, up from 2.4% in November, with manufacturing sector leading at 3.9% growth.
* Mining sees 5.1% growth, while electricity lags at 1.2%, down from December 2022’s 5.1% growth.
* Despite some sectors contracting, overall IIP indicates a revival in both urban and rural demand.

Sectoral Performance :

* Manufacturing : Majority of industries witness growth, only 11 out of 23 report contraction.
* Use-Based Segment : Sequential moderation observed in primary and intermediate goods, while infrastructure, capital goods, and consumer durables witness acceleration, signaling demand revival in both urban and rural areas.

Correct Answer :   Australia

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Australia U19 win the U19 World Cup 2024 Final by 79 runs. With the massive win over India, Australia has secured its fourth World Cup title in U-19 cricket. Australia added to their triumphs in 2002, 2010, and 2020. Their consistent performance throughout the tournament showcased their depth and talent, making them deserving champions. India, aiming for a record-extending sixth title, was left heartbroken but can hold their heads high for a commendable campaign.

U19 World Cup 2024 Australia vs India Final Score :

* AUSU19 253/7 (50)
* INDU19 174 (43.5)

* Venue : Willowmoore Park, Benoni

U19 World Cup 2024, Awards :

* Kwena Maphaka named U19 Cricket World Cup Player of the Tournament
* Player of the Match: Mahli Beardman

U19 World Cup 2024 Final, Key Takeaways :

* Australia’s strong batting performance, spearheaded by Harjas Singh and Oliver Peake, laid the foundation for their victory.
* India’s bowling attack lacked penetration, failing to restrict the flow of runs consistently.
* The Indian batting line-up faltered under pressure, unable to chase down the imposing target.
* This win marks Australia’s dominance in the U19 World Cup, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in youth cricket.

The U19 World Cup 2024 final provided a fitting culmination to a thrilling tournament. It showcased the future stars of cricket and emphasized the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and pressure handling. Congratulations to Australia for their well-deserved win, and to India for their spirited performance.

Correct Answer :   Pathum Nissanka

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Pathum Nissanka etched his name in Sri Lankan cricket history, by becoming the first-ever player to score a double century in One Day Internationals (ODIs) for the nation. His unbeaten knock of 210 runs against Afghanistan was a masterclass in batting, shattering records and propelling Sri Lanka to a massive victory.

A Double Dose of History :

First Double Century : Nissanka’s 210 is the highest individual score by a Sri Lankan batsman in ODIs, surpassing Sanath Jayasuriya’s 189 from 2000.
Fastest Double Century : He reached the double ton in just 136 balls, making it the third fastest in men’s ODIs.

Powerhouse Batting :

Boundary Bonanza : Nissanka smashed a record 128 runs in boundaries, the most for any Sri Lankan in ODIs.
Third Highest Team Total : Sri Lanka’s score of 381/3 is the third highest in their ODI history.

A Match of High Scores :

Record Aggregate : The combined score of 720 runs in the match is the highest for an ODI hosted by Sri Lanka.
Afghanistan’s Highest : Afghanistan’s 339/6 is their highest ODI total and the highest run-chase score in Sri Lanka.

Nabi & Omarzai’s Heroics :

Record Sixth-Wicket Stand : Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai’s 242-run partnership is the second highest for the sixth wicket or lower in ODIs.
Highest Losing Partnership : Their stand is also the highest partnership by a losing team in ODIs.

Correct Answer :   NASA

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The vast expanse of our planet’s oceans and the intricate dance of Earth’s atmosphere hold key secrets to understanding and battling climate change. In a recent groundbreaking move, NASA launched the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) mission, embarking on a crucial journey to unlock these mysteries. This ambitious project promises to revolutionize our understanding of the complex interactions between air, water, and life, providing invaluable insights into our planet’s changing climate.

PACE, launched onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on February 8th, 2024, isn’t your typical satellite. Armed with a powerful hyperspectral ocean color instrument, it delves into the microscopic world, studying tiny marine organisms called phytoplankton. These microscopic wonders play a vital role in regulating Earth’s climate by absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide. By closely monitoring their distribution and health, PACE can illuminate how oceans function and respond to environmental changes.

Peering Through the AtmosphERIC Haze :

But PACE doesn’t stop at the water’s surface. It also casts its keen eye towards the sky, scrutinizing aerosols. These tiny airborne particles, ranging from dust and smoke to volcanic ash, can significantly impact both climate and air quality. By analyzing their types, distribution, and interactions with sunlight, PACE will provide deeper insights into their influence on Earth’s energy balance and climate patterns.

Collaborating for Climate Solutions :

This groundbreaking mission isn’t a solo act. PACE joins forces with a constellation of existing Earth-observing satellites, forming a powerful network monitoring our planet’s health. The collected data will be freely available to scientists worldwide, fostering international collaboration and accelerating the development of effective climate solutions.

Impact Beyond Science :

Beyond scientific advancements, PACE’s findings have the potential to positively impact society in numerous ways. It can enhance our ability to:

* Forecast harmful algal blooms : Protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring food security.
* Predict extreme weather events : Mitigating risks and safeguarding communities.
* Monitor air quality : Improving public health and environmental well-being.
* Develop sustainable practices : Ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Unlocking the Future :

The PACE mission marks a significant leap forward in our quest to understand and combat climate change. By peering into the hidden world of oceans and atmosphere, it’s unlocking crucial knowledge that will empower us to make informed decisions and chart a sustainable course for our planet. So, watch this space, for the secrets revealed by PACE could pave the way for a brighter future for all.

Correct Answer :   Mio Oka

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Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Monday (5th Feb 2024) appointed Mio Oka as its country director for India.

He will succeed Takeo Konishi who has been promoted as ADB Director General for South Asia at the Manila headquarters.

Oka will take charge of steering ADB operations in India and fostering relations with the government and the country's other development partners, ADB said in a statement.

She will lead the implementation of ADB's country partnership strategy, 2023 2027 that is designed to catalyse robust, climate-resilient, and inclusive private sector-led growth in India, it said.

This will be achieved through accelerated structural transformation and job creation, promotion of climate-resilient green growth, and enhanced social and economic inclusiveness, it added.

Since the start of its country operations in 1986, ADB has been a steadfast partner in supporting India's development goals and economic growth.

"ADB remains committed to bolster India's inclusive and green growth momentum through strategic investments to address critical challenges in infrastructure, human development, and climate risk vulnerability besides promoting private sector development," she said in a statement.

A Japanese national, Oka has almost 3 decades of professional experience, including over 18 years with ADB, where she has served in various capacities since joining as a project specialist in the Mekong Department in 2005, it said.

After serving as an advisor to the president for about 6 years, she held a managerial role as a director in the agriculture and natural resources sector and covered the South Asia region and Emerging Areas team for more than 7 years, it said.

Prior to her tenure at ADB, Oka worked with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, and Japan International Cooperation Agency Bangladesh Office, it added.

India is currently ADB's fourth largest shareholder and one of its largest borrowers since 2010. In 2023, ADB committed $2.59 billion in sovereign lending to India in addition to $16.31 million in technical assistance and $5.25 million in grants under the sovereign portfolio.

The current India sovereign portfolio comprises 73 projects worth a total of $15.7 billion.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members -- 49 from the region..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   CDS Gen. Anil Chauhan

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Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan made a significant announcement at the Defence Literature Festival, “Kalam and Kavach,” in Pune. He unveiled a groundbreaking book titled ‘Artificial Intelligence and National Security,’ marking a pivotal moment in blending India’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary national security strategies.

Integration of Tradition and Innovation :

The festival, hosted by Army Southern Command at the prestigious RSAMI Institute, Pune, showcased a remarkable fusion of tradition and innovation in the realm of national security. General Anil Chauhan, the Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of integrating age-old wisdom with modern military tactics.

Relevance of Ancient Indian Stratagems :

In his address, CDS Chauhan delved into the relevance of ancient Indian stratagems such as Sun Tzu’s ‘Art of War’ and Kautilya’s ‘Arthashastra’ in the context of modern warfare. Despite debates surrounding their applicability in an era dominated by artificial intelligence and nuclear warfare, CDS Chauhan advocated for a balanced approach.

Exploring Modern Military Tactics :

Acknowledging the profound changes in military weapon systems and tactics, CDS Chauhan addressed the evolving landscape of modern warfare. He underscored the importance of adapting ancient wisdom to complement contemporary military strategies.

Celebrating Literary Contributions :

The festival also celebrated the launch of several significant books, including ‘AI and National Security’ by Col Amit Sinha and Vijay Khare, shedding light on the intersection of artificial intelligence and national defense. Additionally, “Russia, Gaza, Taiwan… A World at War” by Ajay Singh provided insights into global geopolitics.

Commemorating the Kargil War Anniversary :

Reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War, the festival served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by India’s armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Rajan Arya, CEO of Pentagon Press, reiterated the company’s commitment to raising awareness about national security complexities.

Towards Self-Reliance in Defence :

A key session titled ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat – Powering India’s Defence Sector’ featured industry leaders like Shri Baba Kalyani, stressing the importance of collaboration for achieving true self-reliance in defense. The discussion highlighted the need for innovation and indigenous development in strengthening India’s defense capabilities.

A Confluence of Expertise :

The festival brought together experts from various fields to discuss a wide range of topics, from global conflicts to the role of heritage in security. It served as a platform for exchanging ideas and insights, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate nexus between history, culture, defense, and security.