21. GROW report and portal, recently seen in the news, is launched by which one of the following?
(A) Ministry of Agriculture
(B) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
(C) NITI Aayog
(D) Ministry of Textiles
Answer: C [NITI Aayog]
NITI Aayog launched the “Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)” initiative, unveiling a portal for universal access to state and district-level data. Hosted on the Bhuvan website, GROW employs advanced technologies like remote sensing and GIS to assess agroforestry suitability across India. It aligns with national goals, aiming to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and create a carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes. The initiative utilizes a developed Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) for national-level prioritization, considering parameters like land use, wasteland, slope, water proximity, and soil organic content.
22. Where was the first council meeting of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) held?
(A) United States
(B) United Kingdom
(C) Russia
(D) India
Answer: A [United States]
The inaugural meeting of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) in Washington DC, United States set guidelines for implementation, proposed during COP15 in 2022. GEF’s member governments committed $1.1 billion for global initiatives addressing biodiversity, climate change, nature renewal, and pollution control. The meeting approved $918 million for 45 projects from the Global Environment Facility Trust Fund and endorsed $203 million for 21 climate change adaptation projects from the Least Developed Countries Fund and Special Climate Change Fund. The council also approved Resource Allocation Policy and Project Cycle Policy for effective donor fund allocation.
23. Recently, the UP government collaborated with which institute to enhance disaster management?
(A) IIT Roorkee
(B) IIT Kanpur
(C) IIT Guwahati
(D) IIT Bombay
Answer: A [IIT Roorkee]
The Uttar Pradesh government is collaborating with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR) to improve disaster management. The government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IITR to strengthen disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.
24. Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA), recently seen in the news, is conducted by which one of the following?
(A) Ministry of Defence
(B) IIT Kanpur
(C) ISRO
(D) Ministry of Science & Technology
Answer: C [ISRO]
ISRO is organizing the ‘Young Scientist Programme’ (YUVIKA) for school children, aimed at imparting basic knowledge on Space Technology and Science. Intended to create awareness and inspire STEM interest, the two-week residential program offers talks, lab visits, and discussions with experts. Eligible students, finishing class 8 and currently in class 9, can apply, with special consideration for rural students. Three participants from each state/UT are selected based on academic performance and extracurricular activities, emphasizing a younger age in case of ties.
25. Recently, who became the second Indian bowler to take 500 wickets in test matches?
(A) Ravindra Jadeja
(B) Jasprit Bumrah
(C) Ravichandran Ashwin
(D) Md Siraj
Answer: C [Ravichandran Ashwin]
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for reaching 500 Test wickets, making him the second Indian bowler to achieve this after Anil Kumble. Ashwin joins an exclusive group of off-spinners with only Muttiah Muralidaran and Nathan Lyon surpassing 500 wickets. Notably, Ashwin is the third off-spinner in history to achieve this milestone. Despite this feat, he trails Kumble’s total wickets, who retired with 619 scalps. The historic moment occurred on the second day of the ongoing Test against England, dismissing Zak Crawley.
26. Which of the following litterateurs have been named the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award?
(A) Kiran Desai and Arvind Adiga
(B) Kedarnath singh and Vikram Seth
(C) Gulzar and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya
(D) Vikram Seth and Arvind Adiga
Answer: C [Gulzar and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya]
Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been announced as the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award by the Jnanpith selection committee. This prestigious award is recognition of their significant contributions to literature. In 2022, the award was conferred upon Goan writer Damodar Mauzo, adding to the distinguished list of laureates. The Jnanpith Award, established in 1961, is one of the highest literary honors in India, celebrating outstanding writers in various Indian languages.
27. What is OpenAI Sora, recently seen in the news?
(A) AI model that can convert a text prompt into audio
(B) AI model that create multiple shots within a single generated video
(C) AI model that can convert a text prompt into video
(D) AI model that can convert a video into audio
Answer: C [AI model that can convert a text prompt into video]
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a cutting-edge generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) model capable of transforming text prompts into high-quality videos up to a minute in length. GenAI utilizes machine learning to produce content by learning patterns from training data. Sora maintains visual excellence and follows user prompts, showcasing the potential of AI in creative content generation.
28. What is the primary role of the Chinook/CH-47F helicopter, recently seen in the news?
(A) Attack and armed reconnaissance
(B) Search and Rescue
(C) Medical evacuation
(D) Heavy troop and supply transport
Answer: D [Heavy troop and supply transport]
An Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter made a precautionary landing in Punjab due to a technical snag. The Chinook/CH-47F, manufactured by Boeing, is a tandem rotor heavy-lift helicopter used for troop and supply transport. India operates 15 Chinooks, featuring advanced cargo handling, a fully integrated digital cockpit, and a triple hook system. With a maximum speed of 160 knots, it can carry 55 troops or 10 tonnes of cargo, showcasing its versatility in military operations.
29. The Chars, recently mentioned in the news, are riverine areas associated with which river?
(A) Ganga River
(B) Yamuna River
(C) Brahmaputra River
(D) Narmada River
Answer: C [Brahmaputra River]
The Chief Minister of Assam has announced a mission to reclaim chars, riverine islands in the Brahmaputra, to preserve ecological integrity. Chars face constant migration, with erosion upstream and deposition downstream during floods, impacting their geometry. Char areas encounter challenges like poor communication, mobility, and infrastructure, hindering development. Issues include isolation, flood threats, and difficulties implementing schemes for roads, irrigation, power, and education in these unique, flood-prone regions.
30. Which among the following best describes about Rhodamine B, recently seen in news?
(A) Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring
(B) Protein found in the flower Rhododendron, used in treating joint pain
(C) Recently developed vaccine against arthritis
(D) Water molecules on the surface of asteroids
Answer: A [Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring]
Tamil Nadu has banned the sale and production of cotton candy due to the presence of Rhodamine B, a chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring. Despite appearing green in powdered form, it turns pink when added to water. Rhodamine B, also used in incense and match sticks, is highly toxic and carcinogenic even in small quantities. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have prohibited its usage in food products.
31. recently, which country’s instant payment platform AANI was linked with India’s UPI?
(A) Qatar
(B) Nepal
(C) UAE
(D) Myanmar
Answer: C [UAE]
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced that they would link their instant payment platforms, UPI (India) and AANI (UAE). The agreement will allow for seamless cross-border transactions between the two countries. AANI is an instant payment platform that allows users to transfer and settle funds in less than 10 seconds. It initially supports transactions of up to $13,600. The agreement is part of a number of pacts signed between the two countries in February 2024, including BIT and IGA on IMEC.
32. Recently, who became the second Indian bowler to take 500 wickets in test matches?
(A) Ravindra Jadeja
(B) Jasprit Bumrah
(C) Ravichandran Ashwin
(D) Md Siraj
Answer: C [Ravichandran Ashwin]
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for reaching 500 Test wickets, making him the second Indian bowler to achieve this after Anil Kumble. Ashwin joins an exclusive group of off-spinners with only Muttiah Muralidaran and Nathan Lyon surpassing 500 wickets. Notably, Ashwin is the third off-spinner in history to achieve this milestone. Despite this feat, he trails Kumble’s total wickets, who retired with 619 scalps. The historic moment occurred on the second day of the ongoing Test against England, dismissing Zak Crawley.
33. What is OpenAI Sora, recently seen in the news?
(A) AI model that can convert a text prompt into audio
(B) AI model that create multiple shots within a single generated video
(C) AI model that can convert a text prompt into video
(D) AI model that can convert a video into audio
Answer: C [AI model that can convert a text prompt into video]
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a cutting-edge generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) model capable of transforming text prompts into high-quality videos up to a minute in length. GenAI utilizes machine learning to produce content by learning patterns from training data. Sora maintains visual excellence and follows user prompts, showcasing the potential of AI in creative content generation.
34. Recently, which ministry released the ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines for Indian Port Performance Index?
(A) Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
(B) Ministry of Defence
(C) Ministry of Home Affairs
(D) Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Answer: A [Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways]
Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines to improve Indian ports’ performance, focusing on mapping, benchmarking, and aligning standards globally. Stemming from the success of GMIS 2023, a major maritime summit, the initiative aims to boost the maritime sector, evidenced by a ₹10 lakh crore investment commitment. The move underscores the government’s dedication to modernize and optimize India’s maritime infrastructure for economic growth and global competitiveness.
35. Nagi Bird Festival, recently seen in the news, is associated with which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Uttar Pradesh
(C) Bihar
(D) Odisha
Answer: C [Bihar]
The Nagi Bird Festival is associated with the state of Bihar. The Bihar government’s Forest and Environment department hosts the three-day festival in Jamui, the district’s Nagi bird sanctuary. The festival’s primary objective is to educate people on migratory birds and their habitats, and to promote bird conservation.
36. ‘Aarogya-Doctors on Wheels’, recently seen in the news, is an initiative of which state/UT?
(A) Delhi
(B) Uttar Pradesh
(C) Jammu & Kashmir
(D) Gujarat
Answer: C [Jammu & Kashmir]
The “Aarogya-Doctors on Wheels” initiative has been introduced in Udhampur, J&K, featuring an AI-driven Tele Clinic to offer healthcare in remote areas. Patients can describe their ailments in their native language, and the AI doctor comprehends and responds in the same language. This free telemedicine service addresses challenges of accessibility, availability, and affordability, bringing healthcare solutions to underserved regions.
37. What is the purpose of the European Union’s recently launched ‘Mission Aspides’ in the Red Sea?
(A) Counterterrorism operations
(B) Humanitarian aid delivery
(C) Protection of commercial vessels from attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels
(D) Environmental conservation efforts
Answer: C [Protection of commercial vessels from attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels]
The European Union has initiated Mission Aspides to safeguard commercial vessels in the Red Sea from potential attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This EU naval mission involves deploying warships and airborne early warning systems in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and surrounding waters. Participating countries include France, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. Aspides vessels, operating under strict rules of engagement, are stationed in Larissa, Greece, and are authorized to fire only in response to Houthi attacks. The mission, initially planned for a year, is subject to renewal.
38. Recently, which state has secured ₹740 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) Scheme?
(A) Uttar Pradesh
(B) Madhya Pradesh
(C) Bihar
(D) Odisha
Answer: A [Uttar Pradesh]
Uttar Pradesh secures ₹740 crore, the highest in India, under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) Scheme, a revamped version of Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA). The centrally sponsored scheme, under the Ministry of Education, aims to enhance the quality of state higher educational institutions in line with the National Education Policy 2020. PM-USHA emphasizes conformity to prescribed norms, standards, and accreditation for quality assurance in higher education.
39. Vaitarna River, recently seen in the news, originates from which one of the following?
(A) Powai hills
(B) Anamudi hills
(C) Trimbakeshwar Hills
(D) Nilgiri hills
Answer: C [Trimbakeshwar Hills]
A recent bull shark attack on a fisherman in Maharashtra’s Vaitarna River marked the first sighting of the aggressive species 40km upstream. Vaitarna, a west-flowing river, originates in Trimbakeshwar Hills and drains 2019 sq km in Thane and Nasik districts. Bull sharks, known for their aggressiveness, can tolerate freshwater and saltwater, venturing into rivers. The species, with a unique viviparity reproduction method, is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to threats.
40. Recently, IREDA and which bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding to co-finance renewable energy projects?
(A) State Bank of India
(B) Punjab National Bank
(C) Union Bank of India
(D) Axis Bank
Answer: B [Punjab National Bank]
IREDA and PNB inked an MoU at IREDA’s New Delhi office on Feb 19, 2024, fostering collaboration for nationwide renewable energy initiatives. The agreement facilitates joint efforts in co-lending and loan syndication for diverse renewable energy projects, signaling a significant step towards sustainable energy development in India.
41. Where was the 28th Meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) held?
(A) Lucknow
(B) Bengaluru
(C) New Delhi
(D) Chennai
Answer: C [New Delhi]
Union Finance Minister chaired the 28th meeting of Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) in New Delhi. FSDC, established in 2010, is a non-statutory apex body under the Ministry of Finance. Proposed by the Raghuram Rajan Committee in 2008, it includes key financial institutions like RBI, IRDA, SEBI, and PFRDA, with members including the Finance Secretary, Chief Economic Advisor, and Secretary of the Department of Financial Services.
42. What is theme of the ‘World Thinking Day 2024’?
(A) Stand Together for Peace
(B) Our World, Our Thriving Future
(C) Our Planet, Our Peaceful Future
(D) Living Threads
Answer: B [Our World, Our Thriving Future]
World Thinking Day, celebrated on February 22, strengthens the bonds of friendship and sisterhood among young girls globally. It focuses on empowering young women, recognizing their immense potential. The day aims to break barriers and elevate the status of women through friendship and empowerment. This year’s theme is “Our World, Our Thriving Future,” emphasizing the need for a supportive global community. Funds raised on this day contribute to the empowerment and development of around 10 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts worldwide.
43. Badwater Basin, recently seen in the news, is located in which continent?
(A) Africa
(B) North America
(C) South America
(D) Australia
Answer: B [North America]
NASA’s recent images reveal Badwater Basin, North America’s driest spot, transformed into a lake for 6 months. Situated 282 feet below sea level in Death Valley National Park, Death Valley, it’s known for extreme aridity. Manly Lake, formed after Hurricane Hilary in August 2023, defied expectations by persisting through fall and winter. Its revival in February 2024, fueled by an atmospheric river, expanded it to 11 km length, 6.5 km width, and 60 cm depth, filling the expansive salt flat.
44. Recently, which country has witnessed the rise of cases of ‘Zombie Deer Disease’?
(A) USA
(B) UK
(C) India
(D) China
Answer: A [USA]
A surge in cases of ‘Zombie Deer Disease’ (Chronic Wasting Disease) in the USA has raised concerns. The fatal neurological condition, caused by misfolded proteins called prions, affects cervids like deer and elk. There are no treatments or vaccines, and symptoms include weight loss, stumbling, and listlessness. While no evidence of human transmission exists, the disease’s increasing prevalence among wildlife is alarming, demanding continued monitoring and research for potential risks.
45. Recently, who has been appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)?
(A) Suresh N. Patel
(B) A S Rajeev
(C) Praveen Kumar Srivastava
(D) Arvinda Kumar
Answer: B [A S Rajeev]
A S Rajeev, former MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra, is appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) by President Droupadi Murmu. Rajeev retired voluntarily from the bank, a decision approved by competent authority as per DFS letter. CVC, established under CVC Act, is now a three-member body with Praveen Kumar Srivastava as Central Vigilance Commissioner since May 2023 and Arvinda Kumar as Vigilance Commissioner since August 2022.
46. Which two ministries have recently collaborated to launch an initiative focused on the health of tribal students?
(A) Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health
(B) Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
(C) Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Tribal Affairs
(D) Ministry of Rural Development and Ministry of Agriculture
Answer: C [Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Tribal Affairs]
The Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Tribal Affairs collaborate to enhance public health for over 20,000 tribal students. The joint effort emphasizes Ayurvedic interventions to tackle health issues, including malnutrition, iron deficiency anemia, and sickle cell diseases. The initiative aims to study tribal health needs and provide targeted public healthcare services for improved well-being.
47. Kali Tiger Reserve, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Maharashtra
(C) Karnataka
(D) Kerala
Answer: C [Karnataka]
Recently, 40 spotted deer were relocated from Mysuru Zoo to Kali Tiger Reserve’s Panasoli range. The spotted deer, or chital, are native to the Indian subcontinent and are prevalent in Indian forests. They inhabit subtropical grasslands and forests, with a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, standing at 35 inches tall and weighing 187 pounds. Only males have antlers, and they live in social herds of 10 to 50 individuals. The species is categorized as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
48. Recently, which country was removed from the financial crime watch list of FATF?
(A) UAE
(B) Pakistan
(C) Iran
(D) Myanmar
Answer: A [UAE]
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was removed from the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) “grey list” on February 23, 2024. The FATF is an intergovernmental organization that sets global standards for combating illicit finance. The FATF placed the UAE under closer scrutiny in 2022, highlighting the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing involving banks, precious metals and stones as well as property. The FATF said the UAE had taken significant steps to address concerns from a 2022 FATF action plan and demonstrated political support for further action. As of February 2024, only the Democratic Republic of North Korea, Iran and Myanmar are mentioned in the FATF blacklist.
49. Attukal Pongala festival, recently seen in the news, is celebrated in which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Kerala
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Karnataka
Answer: B [Kerala]
Attukal Pongala, the world’s largest women’s congregation festival, extends globally with devotees observing rituals in the US and the UK. It is celebrated annually at Kerala’s Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, the event spans 10 days, starting on the Karthigai star of the Malayalam month of Makaram or Kumbham. On the 9th day, the Attukal Pongala Mahotsavam occurs, featuring the ritualistic preparation and offering of a sweet payasam to the Goddess Bhagavathy, signifying the festival’s cultural and religious significance.
50. Recently, which country decided to repeal the world’s first law banning tobacco sales for future generations?
(A) France
(B) Chile
(C) New Zealand
(D) South Africa
Answer: C [New Zealand]
New Zealand is repealing its law that would have banned tobacco sales for future generations. The law was intended to prohibit individuals born after January 1, 2009, from purchasing cigarettes for their entire lives. Researchers and campaigners have warned of the risk that people could die as a result. Janet Hoek, a researcher at Otago University, stated that the repeal contradicts robust research evidence, disregards measures strongly advocated by Maori leaders and will perpetuate health inequities.