CURRENT AFFAIRS: JUN 2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS: JUN 2024

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Q.1 Which institution has been awarded the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024?

(a) NIMHANS

(b) AIIMS

(c) Department of Mental Health

(d) Ministry of Health

Answer: A

Solution: The National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru has been awarded the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO). This recognition highlights NIMHANS' exceptional dedication and contributions to promoting mental health and well-being. Established by WHO in 2019, the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion acknowledges institutions that demonstrate outstanding efforts in advancing health promotion initiatives, reflecting NIMHANS' significant impact in the field of mental health advocacy and promotion.

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Q.2 Who has been appointed the brand ambassador for Tobacco Control in India?

(a) PV Sindhu

(b) Saina Nehwal

(c) Kidambi Srikanth

(d) Pulella Gopichand

Answer: A

Solution: Indian badminton maestro PV Sindhu was appointed as the brand ambassador for Tobacco Control in India during an event organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This initiative aims to motivate young children and youth to steer clear of tobacco in all forms and embrace healthier choices. Sindhu's designation as the brand ambassador highlights the government's proactive stance in implementing tobacco control measures and fostering healthier communities.

Q.3 Which Indian state's High Court became the first to introduce menstrual leave for female employees?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Sikkim

(c) Maharashtra

(d) Kerala

Answer: B

Solution: The Sikkim High Court registry has set a pioneering precedent by implementing a menstrual leave policy for female employees, making it the first High Court in India to do so. Under this policy, women employees at the Sikkim High Court Registry are entitled to take menstrual leave for 2-3 days each month. This progressive step reflects the court's commitment to gender equality and the well-being of its staff, setting a commendable example for workplaces across the nation.

Q.4 Who has been appointed as the Chairman of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC)?

(a) C.P. Jain

(b) Yogendra Paswan

(c) S. Kishore

(d) Rakesh Ranjan

Answer: D

Solution: Rakesh Ranjan, a 1992 batch IAS officer from Manipur Cadre, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). His appointment comes with the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India, indicating his elevated position within the organization.

Q.5 Nayana James won the gold medal in __________ at the Taiwan Athletics Open 2024 ?

(a) Sprint

(b) Shot put

(c) High jump

(d) Long jump

Answer: D

Solution: Nayana James clinched the gold medal in the women's long jump event at the Taiwan Athletics Open 2024. She achieved this feat by recording an impressive distance of 6.43m, outperforming other competitors despite challenging rainy conditions at the Taipei Municipal Stadium.

Q.6 Telangana celebrates its Formation Day on __________?

(a) June 1

(b) June 2

(c) June 3

(d) June 4

Answer: B

Solution: Telangana Formation Day is celebrated annually on June 2 in the Indian state of Telangana. This day commemorates the official establishment of Telangana as the 28th state of India on June 2, 2014, following a prolonged struggle and aspirations for a separate state identity.

Q.7 21st Shangri-La Dialogue was organised at which place?

(a) Malaysia

(b) Thailand

(c) Singapore

(d) China

Answer: C

Solution: The 21st Shangri-La Dialogue, a significant defence summit in the Asia-Pacific region, concluded in Singapore. This annual event, organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), gathers delegates from around the world to discuss pressing security challenges and explore new approaches.

Q.8 'Sarathi Suraksha Policy' has been launched by which company for the driver community?

(a) Tata Motors

(b) Mahindra & Mahindra

(c) Volvo

(d) Ashok Leyland

Answer: D

Solution: Ashok Leyland, a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in India, has introduced the 'Sarathi Suraksha Policy,' aimed at safeguarding the driver community. This comprehensive insurance policy covers accidental death, permanent disability, and partial disability, protecting up to INR 10 lakh per chassis. The policy demonstrates Ashok Leyland's commitment to the safety and welfare of drivers, highlighting its dedication to the transport sector's growth and development.

Q.9 Saathi 2.0 Personal Finance App for Investors has been launched by which financial body?

(a) SEBI

(b) RBI

(c) IRDAI

(d) NSE

Answer: A

Solution: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched the Saathi 2.0 app, aimed at simplifying financial concepts and providing reliable information to investors. This initiative reflects SEBI's commitment to empowering investors and enhancing their understanding of the securities market.

Q.10 What is the main purpose of PraVaHa software launched by ISRO?

(a) Satellite Communication

(b) Weather Forecasting

(c) Aerodynamic Analysis

(d) Space Exploration

Answer: C

Solution: ISRO's PraVaHa software, developed at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), is specifically designed for aerodynamic design and analysis for various aerospace vehicles. It utilizes Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate internal and external flows, aiding in shaping the structure and thermal protection systems of vehicles such as launch vehicles, and winged, and non-winged re-entry vehicles.

Q.11 What is the main purpose of the PAKSAT MM1 satellite launched by Pakistan?

(a) Internet connectivity and communication

(b) Agricultural development

(c) Weather forecasting

(d) Defence Technology

Answer: A

Solution: The primary objective of the PAKSAT MM1 satellite launched by Pakistan with China's assistance is to enhance internet connectivity and communication services across the country. This satellite aims to improve various communication channels, including internet facilities, television broadcasts, cellular phone services, and broadband connectivity, thereby contributing to the advancement of digital infrastructure and communication networks.

Q.12.  Where is the world’s first conservation and breeding centre for Asian king vultures being established in India?

(a) Maharashtra

(b) Rajasthan

(c) Uttar Pradesh

(d) Madhya Pradesh

Answer: C

Solution: The world’s first conservation and breeding centre known as the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre for Asian king vultures is being established in Maharajganj in Uttar Pradesh. This facility aims to protect and increase the population of critically endangered Asian king vultures, addressing their decline caused by factors such as diclofenac poisoning.

Q.13 Miyawaki Method of creating forest originated in which country?

(a) Japan

(b) Spain

(c) Singapore

(d) Uzbekistan

Answer: A

Solution: The Miyawaki Method originated from Japan, focuses on maximizing plant density in small areas to combat air pollution effectively. The initiative aims to boost oxygen levels and reduce pollution in urban spaces, with plans to expand this green initiative across the city of Raipur.

Q.14 The new eel species, Pisodonophis kalinga, discovered by ZSI in which Indian state?

(a) Andhra Pradesh

(b) West Bengal

(c) Tamil Nadu

(d) Odisha

Answer: D

Solution: ZSI scientists discovered Pisodonophis kalinga, a new species of eel, in the Palur canal located in Odisha's Ganjam district. Named after ancient Odisha, this snake-like eel species belongs to the Ophichthidae family and order Anguilliformes. It is notably found in the Chilika lagoon and the adjacent Palur canal and has been commonly referred to as the Kalinga snake eel by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). Discovery of new species enriches biodiversity studies and underscores the importance of conservation efforts in regional ecosystems.

Q.15 Which position did India secure in the 2024 Environment Performance Index?

(a) 176th

(b) 172nd

(c) 177th

(d) 180th

Answer: A

Solution: India secured the 176th position among 180 countries in the 2024 Environment Performance Index. This ranking reflects challenges such as high emissions, poor air quality, and biodiversity-habitat concerns. 

Q.16 Hemis Festival, celebrating Tibetan Buddhism belongs to state/UT?

(a) Maharashtra

(b) Ladakh

(c) Arunachal Pradesh

(d) Sikkim

Answer: B

Solution: The Hemis Festival, known as Hemis Tsechu, is celebrated annually in Ladakh, India. This vibrant cultural event honours Guru Padmasambhava and features the iconic Chaam dance performed by monks at the Hemis Monastery. It showcases traditional Buddhist rituals, thangka exhibitions, and local handicrafts, highlighting Ladakh's rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance.

Q.17. Who has been elected as the Speaker of 18th Lok Sabha? 

(a) Kiren Rijiju

(b) Bhartruhari Mahtab

(c) Om Birla

(d) Guharam Ajgalle

Answer: C

Solution: Om Birla, was elected Speaker of the Lok Sabha, defeating the opposition candidate Kodikunnil Suresh, in a voice vote, making it fourth election of Lok Sabha speaker in the history of India.

Q.18 International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on _________.

(a) June 17

(b) June 21

(c) July 1

(d) May 12

Answer: B

Solution: International Day of Yoga is observed annually on June 21st worldwide. This day aims to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga through various events and activities held globally. In 2024, it marks the 10th anniversary of this celebration, emphasizing the theme "Yoga for Self and Society," underscoring yoga's role in enhancing individual well-being and fostering community harmony.

Q.19. Who won the gold medal in the men's javelin throw event at the Paavo Nurmi Games 2024?

(a) Toni Keranen

(b) Oliver Helander

(c) Anderson Peters

(d) Neeraj Chopra

Answer: D

Solution: Neeraj Chopra, the Indian javelin star and reigning Olympic and World Champion, clinched the gold medal in the men's javelin throw event at the Paavo Nurmi Games 2024 held in Turku, Finland. Known for his impressive opening throw of 83.62m and a best effort of 85.97m in the third round, Neeraj demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency throughout the competition. His victory further solidified his status as a dominant force in the sport of javelin throw, highlighting his ability to perform at the highest level on the global stage.

Q.20 Where was the Bonn Climate Conference 2024 organised?

(a) France

(b) Switzerland

(c) Germany

(d) Netherlands

Answer: C

Solution: The Bonn Climate Conference 2024 concluded in Bonn, Germany, focusing on critical climate action issues ahead of the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. Discussions primarily addressed unresolved matters like carbon market guidelines and climate finance goals under the Paris Agreement. The conference highlighted ongoing challenges and the need for international cooperation to address climate change effectively.

Q.21. Who built the Nalanda University?

(a) Kumaragupta I

(b) Skandagupta

(c) Kanishka I

(d) Aurangzeb

Answer: A

Solution: Nalanda was established by emperor Kumaragupta I of the Gupta Empire around 427 CE, and was supported by numerous Indian and Javanese patrons – both Buddhists and non-Buddhists.

Q.22. When was the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) enacted?

(a) 1966

(b) 1965

(c) 1967

(d) 1970

Answer: C

Solution: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was enacted in the year 1967 to enhance the prevention of certain unlawful activities, including those related to terrorism and acts challenging India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

Q.23 World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed annually on ___________.

(a) June 17

(b) June 18

(c) June 20

(d) June 19

Answer: D

Solution: World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed globally on June 19 each year. The theme for 2024 is "Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally," emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance care and management of this condition, particularly among vulnerable populations like socially and economically marginalized communities.

It aims to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, a group of genetic disorders affecting red blood cells. 

Q.24 Who won the 18th V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award?

(a) L. Murugan

(b) Ezra Mir

(c) Mike Pandey

(d) Subbiah Nallamuthu

Answer: D

Solution: Subbiah Nallamuthu, a distinguished wildlife filmmaker, received the 18th V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award for his remarkable contributions to non-feature and wildlife documentary filmmaking at the Mumbai International Film Festival, this prestigious award recognizes Nallamuthu's extensive body of work, including acclaimed documentaries like “Tiger Dynasty” and “Living on the Edge.” 

Q.25 Who was honoured with South Africa’s prestigious 'Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award'?

(a) Karpoori Thakur

(b) Vinod Ganatra

(c) M. S. Swaminathan

(d) Charan Singh

Answer: B

Solution: Vinod Ganatra, an eminent children's filmmaker from India, was honoured with South Africa’s prestigious 'Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award' for his exceptional contributions to children’s cinema. He became the first Indian to receive this distinguished award at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival.

Q.26 Who is the CEO of NITI Aayog?

(a) Arvind Kumar

(b) Rajesh Sharma

(c) Ashis Kumar Dash

(d) BVR Subrahmanyam

Answer: D

Solution: The Cabinet Committee on Appointments appointed former Union Commerce Secretary and retired civil servant B.V.R. Subrahmanyam as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Niti Aayog. 

Q.27 On which river, the world's highest steel arch rail bridge is built?

(a) Ravi River

(b) Jhelum River

(c) Chenab River

(d) Indus River

Answer: C

Solution: The Chenab Bridge, part of the Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project, spans the Chenab River gorge in Jammu and Kashmir. It stands as the world's highest steel arch rail bridge, towering over the Chenab River at a height of 359 meters (approximately 1,178 feet), surpassing even the height of the Eiffel Tower.

Q.28 Which city is India's most expensive city for expatriates in 2024 as per the Mercer Report?

(a) New Delhi

(b) Chennai

(c) Kolkata

(d) Mumbai

Answer: D

Solution: Mumbai has been identified in the Mercer 2024 Cost of Living Survey as India’s most expensive city for expatriates, maintaining its position despite economic challenges. The city ranks 136th globally and 21st in Asia, reflecting high costs in transportation, personal care, and other essential living expenses for expatriates living there.

Q.29 ISRO has collaborated with _________ organisation for the NISAR satellite mission?

(a) CNSA

(b) Roscosmos

(c) NASA

(d) JAXA

Answer: C

Solution: The NISAR (NASA ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite mission is a joint initiative between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This collaboration aims to launch a powerful Earth-observing satellite that will utilize synthetic aperture radar technology to monitor and measure various changes on Earth's surface, including ice sheets, glaciers, wetlands, forests, and geological features. 

Q.30 Which state government has launched 'Mission Nishchay' to combat drug trafficking?

(a) Haryana

(b) Rajasthan

(c) Punjab

(d) Gujarat

Answer: C

Solution: Punjab Police initiated 'Mission Nishchay' in the Fazilka district of Punjab, collaborating with BSF and Village Defence Committees to combat drug trafficking along the India-Pakistan border. This initiative aims to gather intelligence and engage local communities in efforts to curb drug-related activities, focusing on areas with significant border proximity and historical drug trafficking incidences.

Q.31 Where is the Malabar River Festival 2024 celebrated?

(a) Kozhikode

(b) Kochi

(c) Alappuzha

(d) Chalipuzha

Answer: A

Solution: The Malabar River Festival 2024, featuring the International White Water Kayaking Championship, will be hosted in Kerala's Kozhikode. This event will showcase the thrilling sport of white-water kayaking across several rivers including Thusaharagiri, Chalipuzha, and Iruvazhinjipuzha, attracting participants from around the world.

Q.32 Where was the G7 Summit, 2024 held?

(a) France

(b) United States

(c) Italy

(d) Canada

Answer: C

Solution: The G7 Summit in 2024 took place in southern Italy’s Apulia region. This annual summit gathers leaders from the G7 countries along with the European Union to discuss global challenges and formulate joint initiatives on issues such as the global economy and regional affairs.

Q.33 The UN declared 2025 to be the ________________.

(a) International Year of Space Exploration

(b) International Year of Artificial Intelligence

(c) International Year of Renewable Energy

(d) International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

Answer: D

Solution: The UN has declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology to raise awareness and promote advancements in quantum technologies with the  aim to harness quantum science for various sectors including renewable energy, medicine, finance, and communications, highlighting its potential for sustainable development and global innovation.

Q.34 Who became the Indian Navy’s first woman helicopter pilot?

(a) Anamika B. Rajeev

(b) Neha Sharma

(c) Priya Patel

(d) Aarti Singh

Answer: A

Solution: Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev made history by becoming the Indian Navy’s first woman helicopter pilot. This milestone underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and expanding career opportunities for women in the armed forces.

Q.35 Who authored the book "A Fly on the RBI Wall: An Insider’s View of the Central Bank"?

(a) Alpana Killawala

(b) Raghuram Rajan

(c) Urjit Patel

(d) Duvvuri Subbarao

Answer: A

Solution: Alpana Killawala authored the book "A Fly on the RBI Wall: An Insider’s View of the Central Bank". The book offers insights into her 25-year journey at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the institution's transformation during her tenure. It provides a candid account of her experiences, including navigating crises and reforms, and sheds light on the RBI's communication strategies and its role in India's economic reforms.

Q.36 'I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story' is the autobiography of which player?

(a) David Warner

(b) Ravichandran Ashwin

(c) David Miller

(d) Yuvraj Singh

Answer: B

Solution: Ravichandran Ashwin, an accomplished off-spinner in international cricket, released his autobiography 'I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story' on June 10, 2024. 

Q.37 Who was the first Indian to win the 3-Star Grand Prix in Equestrian?

(a) Raghubir Singh

(b) Rakesh Kumar

(c) Shruti Vora

(d) Fouaad Mirza

Answer: C

Solution: Shruti Vora made history as the first Indian to win the three-star Grand Prix event in the FEI Dressage World Cup held in Lipica, Slovenia. Her previous appearances in prestigious events like the Dressage World Championship and the Asian Games underscore her dedication and success in the sport.

Q.38 Which River forms the international boundary between India and Nepal?

(a) Mahakali River

(b) Bagmati River

(c) Ghaghara River

(d) Mechi River

Answer: A

Solution: The Mahakali River, also known as the Kali River, it originats from Nepal and flows into India serves as the international boundary between India and Nepal. It is a crucial geographic feature that delineates the boundary between these two neighbouring countries, reflecting their historical and political relationship. 

Q. 39 What is India's rank In the Global Peace Index 2024?

(a) 112

(b) 120

(c) 124

(d) 116

Answer: D

Solution: According to the Global Peace Index 2024 published by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), India is ranked 116th among 163 countries evaluated. This ranking reflects India's position in terms of peacefulness compared to other nations worldwide, considering various factors such as levels of violence, militarization, and ongoing conflicts.

Q.40 Who became the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for the third consecutive time?

(a) Nabam Tuki

(b) Pema Khandu

(c) Mukut Mithi

(d) Dorjee Khandu

Answer: B

Solution: Pema Khandu, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), took the oath as the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for the third consecutive term on June 13, 2024. His swearing-in ceremony marked a significant event attended by several prominent leaders, underlining his political prominence and support within the state.

Q.41 'Nijut Moina' a monthly stipend scheme to prevent child marriages is announced by which state government?

(a) Bihar

(b) Odisha

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Assam

Answer: D

Solution: The Assam government has launched the 'Nijut Moina' scheme, offering monthly stipends to female students. The scheme is part of Assam's efforts to empower girls through education and reduce social barriers like early marriages.

Q.42 Maritime Exercise JIMEX-24 is held by Navies of India and _______________?

(a) USA

(b) Japan

(c) Singapore

(d) Germany

Answer: B

Solution: The Japan-India Maritime Exercise JIMEX-24 held in Yokosuka, Japan. Yokosuka hosted the 8th edition of this bilateral naval exercise, which aims to strengthen naval cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).

Q.43 Who has been appointed as the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS)?

(a) Lt General Rajesh Kumar

(b) Lt General Upendra Dwivedi

(c) Major General Ashok Sharma

(d) Colonel Sanjay Patel

Answer:  B

Solution: Lt General Upendra Dwivedi has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). Lt General Dwivedi has held several key positions including Northern Army Commander and Director General (DG) infantry. His extensive military career and academic achievements make him a notable choice for this leadership role in the Indian Army.

Q.44 Who has been sworn in as the new home minister of Andhra Pradesh?

(a) YS Jagan Mohan Reddy

(b) K. Rosaiah

(c) N. Kiran Kumar Reddy

(d) N. Chandrababu Naidu

Answer: D

Solution: N. Chandrababu Naidu has been sworn in for his fourth term as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. He previously served as Chief Minister during two terms of the undivided Andhra Pradesh and was also the first Chief Minister of the newly bifurcated Andhra Pradesh from 2014 to 2019. His recent oath-taking ceremony marked his return to power following a significant electoral victory in 2024.

Q.45 Who become the Chief Minister of Sikkim for the second consecutive term?

(a) Prem Singh Tamang

(b) Pawan Chamling

(c) Bhaichung Bhutia

(d) Laxmi Prasad Yadhav

Answer: A

Solution: Prem Singh Tamang, the leader of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for the second consecutive term on June 10. Administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, the oath ceremony included 11 other Ministers from the SKM party. 

Q.46 Which of the following port is located in Bangladesh?

(a) Chabahar Port

(b) Sittwe Port

(c) Gwadar Port

(d) Mongla Port

Answer: D

Solution: India has set its sights on managing the Mongla Port in Bangladesh as part of its strategy to expand overseas port operations and enhance regional connectivity. This move aims to counter China's influence in the region and strengthen India's commercial and security interests, similar to its endeavours at Chabahar in Iran and Sittwe in Myanmar. The initiative underscores India's proactive approach to securing vital maritime routes and fostering strategic partnerships with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh.

Q.47 An antelope-like mammal ‘mainland serow’ is located in Raimona National Park, In which state this park is located?

(a) Odisha

(b) Madhya Pradesh

(c) Assam

(d) Sikkim

Answer: C

Solution: A mainland serow, a mammal between a goat and an antelope, was sighted at 96 meters above sea level in Raimona National Park, Assam, near human habitation. Documented by a team of scientists, this finding was published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa. The serow, usually found at 200-3,000 meters in the India-Bhutan border region, highlights biodiversity conservation efforts in the park, previously affected by poaching and logging.

Q.48 Who won the gold medal in the men's 10-meter air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Munich?

(a) Robin Walter

(b) Sarabjot Singh

(c) Shuaihang Bu

(d) Sift Kaur Samra

Answer: B

Solution: Sarabjot Singh made history by securing India’s first medal at the ISSF World Cup in Munich, winning the gold medal in the men’s 10-meter air pistol event with an impressive performance. 

Q.49 Where is India's first biosphere named the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere located?

(a) Assam

(b) Madhya Pradesh

(c) Karnataka

(d) Uttarakhand

Answer: D

Solution: India's first biosphere in a tiger reserve, the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere (RRB), is located within the Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand. This biosphere initiative aims to protect native trees and endangered species while revitalizing degraded land within the park.

Q.50 Where was India's first-ever astro-tourism event, 'Nakshatra Sabha', organized?

(a) Himachal Pradesh

(b) Kerala

(c) Uttarakhand

(d) Rajasthan

Answer: C

Solution: The Uttarakhand government organized India's first-ever astro-tourism event called 'Nakshatra Sabha' in Mussoorie, the 'Queen of Hills', on June 1 and 2, 2024. This initiative aims to promote astro-tourism in the state, attracting astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travellers to marvel at the wonders of the universe while enjoying Uttarakhand's natural beauty.

Q.51 Which country become the 100th full member to join the International Solar Alliance?

(a) Paraguay

(b) China

(c) South Africa

(d) Brazil

Answer: A 

Solution: Paraguay become the 100th full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) by officially handing over its Instrument of Ratification in New Delhi. The ISA, co-founded by India and France during the 2015 COP21, promotes global solar energy deployment. The alliance now has 119 signatories, with 100 ratified members. The ISA aims to implement the Paris Climate Agreement through extensive solar energy adoption.

Q.52 Who has been honoured with the Hindi Sahitya Bharati Award?

(a) Kabir Singh

(b) Tapan Bandopadhyay

(c) Bratya Basu

(d) Krishna Prakash

Answer: D

Solution: Krishna Prakash, renowned for leading Mumbai Police's special counterterrorism team, Force One, has been honoured with the prestigious Hindi Sahitya Bharati Award. This award recognizes his contributions and achievements, including his leadership role in counterterrorism efforts and his initiatives to promote cultural and literary endeavours.

Q.53 Which armed force launched the first-of-its-kind skin bank for the treatment of severe burn injuries in defence?

(a) Indian Air Force

(b) Indian Navy

(c) Indian Army 

(d) National Security Guard

Answer: C

Solution: The Indian Army inaugurated a state-of-the-art skin bank at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) on June 18. This facility, a first within Armed Forces Medical Services, focuses on treating severe burn injuries for armed forces personnel and families. It addresses injuries from fire accidents, electrical incidents, and high-altitude kerosene warmers. The skin bank centralizes collection, processing, storage, and distribution of skin grafts, enhancing medical capabilities nationwide for military hospitals.

Q.54 How many general elections have the Lok Sabha witnessed since India's independence?

(a) 17

(b) 16

(c) 18

(d) 19

Answer: C

Solution: Since India's independence, the Lok Sabha has been the stage for 18 general elections, each pivotal in shaping the nation's political trajectory. These elections have been instrumental in reflecting the democratic ethos of the country, allowing its citizens to exercise their electoral rights and shape the course of governance.

Q.56 Lord Jagannath Yatra takes place in which state of India?

(a) Jharkhand

(b) Andhra Pradesh

(c) Odisha

(d) Telangana

Answer: C

Solution: Lord Jagannath Yatra takes place in Puri, Odisha annually, and devotees from all over the country will travel to the holy shrine to participate in the festival. Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Celebration of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra, is marked with much enthusiasm and fervour.

Q.57 Which country has recently officially launched its space agency?

(a) South Korea

(b) Brazil

(c) Pakistan

(d) Kenya

Answer: A

Solution: South Korea has recently officially launched its space agency. It aims to promote policy and industrial development in the aerospace sector. South Korea has named it Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA). South Korea plans its first lunar mission in 2032.

Q.58 When is World Environment Day celebrated every year?

(a) 3 June

(b) 4 June

(c) 5 June

(d) 6 June

Answer: C

Solution: World Environment Day is celebrated across the world every year on 5 June to raise and maintain awareness about the preservation of the environment. The United Nations General Assembly declared June 5 as World Environment Day during the Stockholm Conference in 1972. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the nodal agency for environmental protection.  

Q.59 Which Indian peacekeeper honoured posthumously with UN’s Dag Hammarskjold medal?

(a) Vikram Singh Naik 

(b) Dhananjay Kumar Singh

(c) Ram Vishnoi 

(d) Jeet Sinha

Answer: B 

Solution: Naik Dhananjay Kumar Singh, a UN peacekeeper serving in Congo, was posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjold medal during the UN’s International Day of Peacekeepers. The medal, established in 1997, honors peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives under the UN’s authority. Named after Dag Hammarskjöld, it’s awarded annually to nations losing peacekeepers. The ceremony takes place at the UN headquarters. Singh’s recognition highlights the dedication of peacekeepers worldwide.

Q.60 What is the primary objective of the ‘TRISHNA mission’, recently in news?

(a) Exploring outer space

(b) Monitoring surface temperature and water management at regional to global scale

(c) Studying ocean currents 

(d) Mapping the moon’s surface

Answer: B

Solution: The TRISHNA mission, a collaboration between ISRO and CNES, aims to monitor surface temperature and water management globally. Its objectives include detailed monitoring of energy and water budgets, assessing urban heat islands, and detecting thermal anomalies. The mission features two primary payloads: CNES’s Thermal Infra-Red sensor and ISRO’s VNIR-SWIR payload. Operating in a sun-synchronous orbit, TRISHNA will significantly enhance climate monitoring and urban planning over its 5-year operational life.

Q.61 Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan-2 scheme is associated with which state?

(a) Rajasthan

(b) Gujarat

(c) Haryana

(d) Punjab

Answer: A 

Solution: The Rajasthan government launches Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan 2.0, aiming to construct 500,000 water harvesting structures in 20,000 villages over four years. Rajasthan, among India’s driest regions, faces annual rainfall variations from 100 mm to 800 mm, causing water shortages for basic needs. Groundwater replenishment relies on rainfall, yet excessive usage depletes reserves. RIICO mandates rainwater harvesting for plot lessees, and RPH&CCL integrates it into building projects.

Q.62 Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (SLHEP) is located in which state?

(a) Sikkim

(b) Assam

(c) Manipur

(d) Mizoram

Answer: B 

Solution: A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) has been signed for the implementation of a Fisheries Management Plan at the 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydro Electric Project (SLP) in Assam. SLHEP, a gravity dam on the Subansiri River, will be India’s largest hydroelectric plant upon completion. Developed by NHPC, the river is known for gold dust and spans Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, offering significant hydropower potential.

Q.63 Iskander-M missile system is developed by which country?

(a) China

(b) India

(c) Japan

(d) Russia

Answer: D 

Solution: Russia claimed to have targeted a Ukrainian airbase in Mirgorod using the Iskander-M missile system. The Iskander-M, in service since 2006, is a short-range ballistic missile system designed for tactical strikes. It can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, has a range of 400-500 km, and travels up to Mach 7. The missile system includes features like manoeuvrable re-entry vehicles and decoys to evade defences.

Q.64 Who become the first Indian to receive the prestigious ‘Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award’?

(a) Vinod Ganatra

(b) Ravi Gaikwad

(c) Amit Dutta

(d) Ashvin Kumar

Answer: A 

Solution: Vinod Ganatra, a prominent children’s filmmaker from India, has been honoured with South Africa’s prestigious ‘Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his contributions to cinema. He is the first Indian to receive this accolade, presented at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival. 

Q.65 What was the theme of ‘World Sickle Cell Day 2024’?

(a) Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally

(b) Celebrating Progress

(c) Shine the Light on Sickle Cell

(d) Increase public awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease (SCD)

Answer: A 

Solution: World Sickle Cell Day is observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder. Established by a 2008 UN resolution, it aims to inform the public and stakeholders about early detection and prevention. The 2024 theme, “Hope through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally,” emphasizes improving care and providing relief for patients worldwide.

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