- Static GK Questions for SBI PO/Clerk, IBPS RRB, IBPS PO/Clerk, RBI Assistant, LIC, NIACL, OICL, NABARD, SEBI and other competitive exams
- Kabeliya is an Indian folk dance from which state?
A) Andhra Pradesh
B) Assam
C) Haryana
D) Rajasthan
- The Harike Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state?
A) Odisha
B) Punjab
C) Uttarakhand
D) Himachal Pradesh
Monday, January 31, 2022
Static GK Quiz for Upcoming Exams Set – 655
GA Revision for Banking and Other Exams – 1072
- According to findings of the National Family and Health Survey-5,what is the recent sex ratio of female to males in India?
A) 1020:1000
B) 1000:1010
C) 900:1000
D) 1020:1030
Option A
Explanation: Indicating a demographic shift, the number of women surpassed men for the first time in India with the sex ratio being 1,020: 1,000, according to findings of the National Family and Health Survey-5.
- In September 2021, the Indian Army organised ‘Bijoya Sanskritik Mahotsav’ from September 26 to 29 in which state?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) West Bengal
C) Assam
D) Uttarakhand
Option B
Explanation: Indian Army will organise ‘Bijoya Sanskritik Mahotsav’ from September 26 to 29 in Kolkata to mark 50 years of Bangladesh’s liberation following India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war.
- The definition of MSME is based on _____in equipment?
A) Annual Turnover
B) investment in Plant & Machinery
C) investment And Annual Turnover
D) investment in equipment
Option C
Explanation: According to the provisions of the MSMED (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Development) Act of 2006, MSMEs are classified into two classes i.e. Manufacturing Enterprises and Service Enterprises. The enterprises are further categorized based on annual turnover and investment in equipment.
- Which application was launched by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on innovation, entrepreneurship, science technology, research and skill for knowledge transformation?
A) CUNSULT
B) DHRUV
C) SHAURYA
D) CONSOLE
Option A
Explanation: Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has launched knowledge App and platform CUNSULT. Emphasizing on innovation, entrepreneurship, science technology, research and skill for knowledge transformation, the minister said, conversion of knowledge into wealth is the future.
- In which state is the Gangotri National Park located?
A) Himachal Pradesh
B) Gujarat
C) Jammu & Kashmir
D) Uttarakhand
Option D
Explanation: Gangotri National Park is a national park in Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand in India, covering about 2,390 km². Its habitat consists of coniferous forests, alpine meadows and glaciers. Gaumukh at Gangotri glacier, the origin of river Ganga, is located inside the park.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually laid the foundation stone of the Rani Gaidinliu tribal freedom fighters’ museum in which state?
A) Telangana
B) Assam
C) Manipur
D) Karnataka
Option C
Explanation: Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually laying the foundation stone of the Rani Gaidinliu tribal freedom fighters’ museum at Luangkao Village in Tamenglong District of Manipur.
- Ministry of Civil Aviation has released an interactive digital airspace map for flying drone. It demarcates which zones across the country for the purpose of drones operation?
A) Green, Yellow, Red
B) Blue,Yellow.Green
C) Black,Blue,Red
D) Green,Blue,Pink
Option A
Explanation: Ministry of Civil Aviation has released an interactive digital airspace map for flying drone. The map demarcates green, yellow and red zones across the country for the purpose of drones operations.
- In which city’s port,India’s first Radio over Internet Protocol system was inaugurated?
A) Chennai
B) Vadodara
C) Kolkata
D) Surat
Option C
Explanation: In view of a much needed solution for providing effective long-range marine communications, the Radio over Internet Protocol (ROIP) System at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkatawas inaugurated.
- Who called for for adoption of future technologies for grass root policing requirements and development of inter-operable technologies which would benefit Police forces across the country?
A) HarshVardhan Singh
B) Rajnath Singh
C) Jitendra Singh
D) Narendra Modi
Option D
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for adoption of future technologies for grass root policing requirements and development of inter-operable technologies which would benefit Police forces across the country.
- World Health Organization (WHO) updated its air quality guidelines for the first time in how many years?
A) 15
B) 20
C) 25
D) 10
Option A
Explanation: The World Health Organization (WHO) updated its air quality guidelines for the first time in 15 years.
- Where is the headquarter of International Hockey Federation (FIH) situated?
A) Vienna
B) Lausanne
C) Rome
D) London
Option B
Explanation: Lausanne, Switzerland, Founded – January 1924, President – Leandro Negre, CEO - Thierry Weil
- What is the capital of Uzbekistan?
A) Gadreb
B) Baghdad
C) Tehran
D) Tashkent
Option D
Explanation: Currency - Uzbekistani soʻm, President - Shavkat Mirziyoyev
- Which state was adjudged best performer in inland fisheries by the Union Government?
A) Karnataka
B) Telangana
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Kerala
Option B
Explanation: Telangana was adjudged best performer in inland fisheries, while Andhra Pradesh was named the best marine state in the country by the Centre.
- Which organisation issued master circular on transfer of NPAs, securitisation of standard assets?
A) RBI
B) SEBI
C) IRDA
D) NABARD
Option A
Explanation: The RBI has effected major changes to the norms governing the transfer of bad loans and standard assets by lenders to bring in transparency in the process and to improve liquidity in the system, besides corporate governance.
- Nathpa Jhakri Dam is in Himachal Pradesh. It is built over which river?
A) Beas
B) Ravi
C) Sutlej
D) Krishna
Option C
Explanation: The Nathpa Jhakri Dam is a concrete gravity dam on the Sutlej river in Himachal Pradesh, India. The primary purpose of the dam is hydroelectric power production and it supplies a 1,500 megawatts underground power station with water.
Daily Current Affairs 31st January, 2022
Daily Current Affairs 31 January 2022 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.
India and Israel will work together to create 150 ‘Villages of Excellence’ that will help farmers to adopt latest technology in the farm sector.
India’s largest electric vehicle (EV) charging station, with 100 charging points for four-wheelers, was commissioned in Sector 52, Gurugram. Before this, the country’s largest EV charging station was in Navi Mumbai, with 16 AC and 4 DC charging ports for such vehicles.
The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) said it has imposed several restrictions on Indian Mercantile Cooperative Bank Ltd, Lucknow, including a cap of ₹1 lakh on withdrawals.
Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL), under its modernisation initiatives, has set up 'new bank note printing lines' each at Currency Note Press, Nashik and Bank Note Press, Dewas.
Fintech company Alphaniti announced a partnership with IIFL Securities to allow investors to invest and trade in stock offerings.
A joint venture of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and energy major BP has opened one of the country’s largest EV charging hubs in Delhi, as the duo scale up the fuel-retail network, offering multiple fuel choices, including EV charging infrastructure.
Social media giant Meta said it has, under its #SheMeansBusiness programme, partnered with industry body FICCI to support five lakh women-led small businesses across India.
World Number one Ashleigh Barty, won her first Australian Open title after defeating Danielle Collins of the United States in the Women's Singles final at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
The Maharashtra Directorate of National Cadet Corps (NCC) has won the Prime Minister’s banner at the Republic Day Camp.
NATIONAL NEWS
Israel to help India convert 150 villages into ‘Villages of Excellence’India and Israel will work together to create 150 ‘Villages of Excellence’ that will help farmers to adopt latest technology in the farm sector.
- The 150 villages that are located around Centres of Excellence (CoEs) will be converted into ‘Villages of Excellence, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said.
- Out of which, 75 villages are being taken up in the first year to commemorate the 75th year of India’s Independence, where both countries will work together.
India’s largest electric vehicle (EV) charging station, with 100 charging points for four-wheelers, was commissioned in Sector 52, Gurugram. Before this, the country’s largest EV charging station was in Navi Mumbai, with 16 AC and 4 DC charging ports for such vehicles.
- The EV charging station in Gurugram, with 72 AC slow-chargers and 24 DC fast-chargers, has been installed and is operated by a partner company of National Highways for Electric Vehicle (NHEV), as part of a pilot project to install charging stations on the Delhi-Jaipur and Delhi-Agra highways, and turn them into e-highways.
- The pilot project is aimed at demonstrating the competitive advantage of owning a charging station business over petrol pumps, in terms of ease in getting the necessary licensing, designing, commissioning, installation, electrification and safety certifications.
BANKING & FINANCE
RBI imposes restrictions on Indian Mercantile Cooperative BankThe Reserve Bank of India(RBI) said it has imposed several restrictions on Indian Mercantile Cooperative Bank Ltd, Lucknow, including a cap of ₹1 lakh on withdrawals.
- The restrictions came into force from closure of business hours on January 28, 2022.
- In a statement, RBI said the Lucknow-based co-operative bank will not, without its prior approval, grant or renew any loans and advances, or make any investment.
Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL), under its modernisation initiatives, has set up 'new bank note printing lines' each at Currency Note Press, Nashik and Bank Note Press, Dewas.
- In India, four printing presses for printing and supply of Banknotes. These are at Dewas in Madhya Pradesh, Nasik in Maharashtra (owned by SPMCIL), Mysore in Karnataka, and Salboni in West Bengal (owned by Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL)).
- SPMCIL, a Government of India owned Miniratna company, is engaged in the manufacture/production of Currency and Bank Notes, Security Paper, Non-Judicial Stamp Papers, Postal Stamps, Passport, Visa, Cheques, Bond, Warrant, Special Certificates with security features, Security Inks, Circulation & Commemorative Coins, Medallions, Refining of Gold & Silver, and Assay of Precious Metals among others.
Fintech company Alphaniti announced a partnership with IIFL Securities to allow investors to invest and trade in stock offerings.
- Alphaniti aims to redefine the experience of direct investments by offering high-quality products at affordable costs by leveraging on big data, deep domain expertise and technology for both India and the US markets, across multiple asset classes.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
Jio-bp opens EV charging hub in DelhiA joint venture of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and energy major BP has opened one of the country’s largest EV charging hubs in Delhi, as the duo scale up the fuel-retail network, offering multiple fuel choices, including EV charging infrastructure.
- Reliance BP Mobility Limited, operating under the brand name Jio-bp, is working with multiple demand aggregators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and technology partners with a vision of being the leading EV charging infrastructure player in India.
Social media giant Meta said it has, under its #SheMeansBusiness programme, partnered with industry body FICCI to support five lakh women-led small businesses across India.
- The announcement was made during Meta's inaugural National Women Entrepreneurship Summit to encourage industry dialogue and steps to support the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across sectors.
- With this partnership, Meta will extend its support via three initiatives — Facebook Business Coach, Grow your Business Hub, and Meta's Commerce Partners Program.
SPORTS
Ashleigh Barty wins her first Australian Open titleWorld Number one Ashleigh Barty, won her first Australian Open title after defeating Danielle Collins of the United States in the Women's Singles final at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
- With the win, Barty became the first Australian to claim a Grand Slam title on home soil in 44 years since Christine O’Neill in 1978.
- In all-Australian Men's doubles final, Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis claimed their first major title by 7-5, 6-4 at Melbourne Park with victory over their compatriots, Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell.
- Rafael Nadal beats Daniill Medvedev 2-6,6-7,6-4,6-4,7-5 in a five-set thriller to lift his second Australian Open title. This is also his 21st Major title, becoming the first man to do so.The 35-year-old Spaniard now has one more major title than Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, his long-time rivals in the so-called Big Three.
AWARDS
Maharashtra NCC Directorate wins PM Banner at Republic Day CampThe Maharashtra Directorate of National Cadet Corps (NCC) has won the Prime Minister’s banner at the Republic Day Camp.
- The prestigious PM banner has been won by the State Directorate after seven years. The last time the state won the banner was in 2014.Maharashtra State Directorate had also fielded a Contingent of 57 Cadets, both Boys and Girls, drawn from various districts.
- Cadets from 17 NCC Directorates from various States participated in the month-long RDC Camp this year.
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Sunday, January 30, 2022
Static GK Quiz for Upcoming Exams Set – 654
- Static GK Questions for SBI PO/Clerk, IBPS RRB, IBPS PO/Clerk, RBI Assistant, LIC, NIACL, OICL, NABARD, SEBI and other competitive exams
- What is the name of the currency of Argentina?
A) Dollar
B) Peso
C) Won
D) Yen
Option B
Explanation: Capital – Buenos Aires, President - Alberto Fernández
- Chhattisgarh capital city Raipur is situated along the banks of which river?
A) Arpa
B) Indravati
C) Maniyari
D) Kole
Option D
- The Pavana Dam is located in which state?
A) Kerala
B) Maharashtra
C) Telangana
D) Madhya Pradesh
Option B
- Who is the President of International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF)?
A) David Rudisha
B) Sebastian Coe
C) Steve Cram
D) Mo Farah
Option B
Explanation: Headquarter – Monaco
- Which of the following is the state animal of Gujarat?
A) Barasingha
B) Blackbuck
C) Asiatic lion
D) One-horned rhinoceros
Option C
- The Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state of India?
A) Rajasthan
B) West Bengal
C) Himachal Pradesh
D) Jammu & Kashmir
Option D
- World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is based at_______?
A) Gland, Switzerland
B) Jakarta, Indonesia
C) Kathmandu, Nepal
D) Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Option A
Explanation: The World Wide Fund for Nature is an international non-governmental organization founded in 1961, that works in the field of wilderness preservation and the reduction of human impact on the environment. It was formerly named the World Wildlife Fund, which remains its official name in Canada and the United States. The Director General of WWF is Marco Lambertini.
- When is “World Art Day” observed?
A) May 14
B) April 15
C) July 21
D) August 16
Option B
- Meenakshi Temple is a historic Hindu temple in which state of India?
A) Karnataka
B) Kerala
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Andhra Pradesh
Option C
Explanation: Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple is a historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in the temple city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, and her consort, Sundareshwar, a form of Shiva.
- Najla Bouden is the seving prime minister of which country?
A) Turkey
B) Azerbaijan
C) Armenia
D) Tunisia
Option D
Explanation: Capital - Tunis, Currency - Tunisian dinar, President - Kais Saied.
GA Revision for Banking and Other Exams – 1071
- Which company has now acquired a 100% stake in Urja Money Pvt. Ltd., which provides a loan management system through its proprietary solution, CreditMate?
A) Mobikwik
B) Cred
C) Paytm
D) PayPal
Option C
Explanation: Digital payments major, Paytm, has now acquired a 100% stake in Urja Money Pvt. Ltd., which provides a loan management system through its proprietary solution, CreditMate.
- Government of Manipur have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with which company to establish first of its kind center for Invention, Innovation, Incubation & Training (CIIIT) on Industrial Experiential Learning & Development at Manipur?
A) Tata Tech
B) Oswal Tech
C) HCL
D) TCS
Option A
Explanation: Tata Technologies and the Government of Manipur have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to establish first of its kind center for Invention, Innovation, Incubation & Training (CIIIT) on Industrial Experiential Learning & Development at Manipur.
- What is the limit of fund transfer using UPI?
A) Rs 20,000
B) Rs 10,000
C) Rs 50,000
D) Rs 1 Lakh
Option D
Explanation: At present, the UPI transfer limit per UPI transaction is ₹1 Lakh. This limit is enabled as UPI is based on IMPS technology. In most of the cases, the maximum number of UPI transactions is limited to 20. Although the transaction limit per UPI transaction is ₹1 lakh, the upper limit depends on bank-to-bank.
- Who headed the committee to suggest ways for GST rate rationalisation, eliminate inverted duty structure?
A) Ajit Pawar
B) Basavaraj S Bommai
C) Yogi Adityanath
D) Nirmala Sitharaman
Option B
Explanation: After four years of implementation, the Centre and States have initiated an exercise to rework the rates slab under the Goods and Services Tax (GST), with the formation of a Group of Ministers (GoM).
- Who clinched the gold medal in the women’s 25-metre air pistol event of the ISSF Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru?
A) Manu Bhaker
B) Avantika Chaudhary
C) Naamya Kapoor
D) Akanksha Chaturvedi
Option C
Explanation: India’s 14-year-old shooter Naamya Kapoor clinched the gold medal in the women’s 25-metre air pistol event of the ISSF Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru.
- NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NTPC REL) has signed the first green term loan agreement of Rs 500 crore with which bank?
A) Bank of India
B) IDBI Bank
C) SBI
D) PNB
Option A
Explanation: State-run power giant NTPC said its arm NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NTPC REL) has signed the first green term loan agreement of Rs 500 crore with Bank of India.
- Where is the HQ of National Hydroelectric Power Generation Corporation of India?
A) Mumbai
B) Gwalior
C) Nagpur
D) Faridabad
Option D
Explanation: NHPC Limited (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) is an Indian government hydropower board under the ownership of Ministry of Power, Government of India that was incorporated in the year 1975 with an authorised capital of ₹2,000 million and with an objective to plan, promote and organise an integrated and efficient development of hydroelectric power in all aspects.
- Which organisation has signed an MoU with the Natural History Museum (NHM) London to work together to collect, study and conserve faunal specimens for science and to create and exchange associated data and images?
A) The Cultural Art Institute
B) Zoological Survey of India
C) Botanical Survey of India
D) International Science institute
Option B
Explanation: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has signed an MoU with the Natural History Museum (NHM) London to work together to collect, study and conserve faunal specimens for science and to create and exchange associated data and images.The MoU will be for five years.
- Who has taken charge as Managing Director of Life Insurance Corporation of India?
A) BC Patnaik
B) Manju Sharma
C) Ravi Mishra
D) Mahesh Sharma
Option A
Explanation: BC Patnaik has taken charge as Managing Director of Life Insurance Corporation of India.
- Which became the first local credit rating company to be associated with the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a United Nations-backed initiative that deals with ESG (Environment Social Governance) credit risk?
A) Cred
B) Stankey
C) Crisil
D) Acute Ratings and Research
Option D
Explanation: Acuité Ratings & Research became the first local credit rating company to be associated with the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), a United Nations-backed initiative that deals with ESG (Environment Social Governance) credit risk.
- Which of the following was introduced to increase ease of bill payments in the country?
A) BQR
B) ABPS
C) BBPS
D) NACH
Option C
Explanation: Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) is an integrated bill payment system in India offering interoperable and accessible bill payment service to customers through a network of agents of registered member as Agent Institutions, enabling multiple payment modes, and providing instant confirmation of payment.
- In September 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.It is being implemented in pilot phases in how many UTs?
A) 6
B) 4
C) 8
D) 2
Option A
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, saying it had the potential to bring “revolutionary changes in our health facilities”.The mission is currently being implemented in the pilot phase in six Union Territories.
- Who has been named Tunisia’s first female prime minister?
A) Namma Bouden
B) Tunis Femisia
C) Jacimdia Arden
D) Najla Bouden Romdhane
Option D
Explanation: Najla Bouden Romdhane has been named Tunisia’s first female prime minister, two months after President Kais Saied assumed executive authority, sacked the prime minister and suspended parliament.
- Where is the “Kalighat Mandir” situated?
A) Madhya Pradesh
B) Maharashtra
C) West Bengal
D) Andhra Pradesh
Option C
Explanation: Kalighat Kali Temple is a Hindu temple in Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, India dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. There are four main Adi Shakti Peethas where one of the body parts of Goddess Sati fell in each of the temples.
- How much amount of loan was approved by Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank for expansion of Chennai Metro Rail System?
A) USD 100 million
B) USD 345 million
C) USD 400 million
D) USD 356 million
Option D
Explanation: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved a USD356.67 million loan to the Government of India to support the expansion of the Chennai metro rail system.
Daily Current Affairs 30th January, 2022
Daily Current Affairs 30 January 2022 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.
Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled a grand wall mural of Mahatma Gandhi made from 2,975 clay kulhads (earthen cups) at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad on the 74th death anniversary of 'Father of the Nation'.
Finance Ministry has granted additional borrowing permission of 7,309 crore rupees to Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh for undertaking the reforms in power sector.
Ola Electric said it will invest over USD 100 million (about Rs 750 crore) over the next five years and set up a global centre for advanced engineering and vehicle design in the UK.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency, IREDA in New Delhi signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Goa Shipyard Limited, GSL, to set-up a rooftop solar power project at GSL headquarter in Vasco da Gama, Goa.
TVS Motor Company said it has acquired a 75 per cent stake in Switzerland's largest e-bike player, Swiss E-Mobility Group AG (SEMG), for USD 100 million.
Japan continued their impressive run at the 2022 Hockey Asia Cup as they thrashed the mighty South Koreans 4-2 at Muscat last night.
GM Magnus Carlsen secured his eighth victory in Wijk aan Zee with a round to spare. The world champion defeated GM Fabiano Caruana and now leads the 2022 Tata Steel Chess Tournament by a full point.
Decorated Indian woman boxer and Olympian Sarjubala Devi has decided to enter the professional arena and has signed a deal with leading Indian boxing promoter Mujtaba Kamal and Grassroot Boxing Promotions and Management in Imphal.
Social worker and Padma Shri awardee, Baba Iqbal Singh, passed away at the age of 95.
In Tamil Nadu, Former Member of Parliament S.K.Paramasivan passed away in Tiruchengode. He was 103.
NATIONAL NEWS
Amit Shah unveils Mural of Mahatma Gandhi Made from 'Kulhad' Cups in GujaratHome Minister Amit Shah unveiled a grand wall mural of Mahatma Gandhi made from 2,975 clay kulhads (earthen cups) at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad on the 74th death anniversary of 'Father of the Nation'.
- The event, which marked the 74th Martyrs' Day, was also attended by Union MSME Minister Narayan Rane and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
- The mural, commissioned by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), was put together by 75 potters brought to Ahmedabad from across the country.
- The mural, measuring 100 square meters, has been created by arranging kulhads on an aluminum sheet to form Mahatma Gandhi's visage.
Finance Ministry has granted additional borrowing permission of 7,309 crore rupees to Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh for undertaking the reforms in power sector.
- Finance Ministry said, Rajasthan has been allowed to borrow additional five thousand 186 crore rupees while Andhra Pradesh has been allowed to borrow additional two thousand 123 crore rupees.
- The objectives of the additional borrowing permissions are to improve the operational and economic efficiency of the sector and promote a sustained increase in paid electricity consumption.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
Ola to Invest Over $100 Million to Set Up Engineering and Design Centre in UKOla Electric said it will invest over USD 100 million (about Rs 750 crore) over the next five years and set up a global centre for advanced engineering and vehicle design in the UK.
- This centre - called the Ola Futurefoundry - will be based in Coventry, UK, and work in sync with the design and engineering teams based at Ola Campus in Bengaluru.
- It will house global talent across multiple disciplines of 2W and 4W vehicle design, advanced high-performance automotive engineering, digital and physical modeling and more.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency, IREDA in New Delhi signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Goa Shipyard Limited, GSL, to set-up a rooftop solar power project at GSL headquarter in Vasco da Gama, Goa.
- Under the MoU, IREDA will also extend its techno-commercial expertise to GSL for Environmental and Social due diligence of rooftop solar and other projects as per the international standards.
- These two companies are PSUs under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Ministry of Defence, respectively.
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS
TVS Motor Acquires Majority Stake in Swiss E-Mobility Group AG For $100 MillionTVS Motor Company said it has acquired a 75 per cent stake in Switzerland's largest e-bike player, Swiss E-Mobility Group AG (SEMG), for USD 100 million.
- The acquisition reaffirms the company's commitment to expanding operations in Europe through a portfolio of premium and technology leading brands, including Norton Motorcycles and EGO Movement, which were recently acquired.
SPORTS
Women’s Asia Cup Hockey: India beat China 2-0 to win Bronze medalJapan continued their impressive run at the 2022 Hockey Asia Cup as they thrashed the mighty South Koreans 4-2 at Muscat last night.
- India won bronze medal beating China 2-0 for third and fourth place play off. Sharmila Devi in the 13th minute and Gurjit Kaur in the 19th minute scored goals for India.
GM Magnus Carlsen secured his eighth victory in Wijk aan Zee with a round to spare. The world champion defeated GM Fabiano Caruana and now leads the 2022 Tata Steel Chess Tournament by a full point.
- Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi became the fourth Indian player after P Harikrishna, B Adhiban and Vidit Gujrathi to win the Tata Steel Challengers event at Wijk Aan Zee in The Netherlands.
Decorated Indian woman boxer and Olympian Sarjubala Devi has decided to enter the professional arena and has signed a deal with leading Indian boxing promoter Mujtaba Kamal and Grassroot Boxing Promotions and Management in Imphal.
- The 28-year-old Manipuri, a silver medallist in the 2014 AIBA World Boxing Championship in Korea and a former Youth World Boxing gold medallist, will be making her professional boxing debut on February 26 in Dubai.
OBITUARIES
Renowned social worker and Padma Shri awardee Baba Iqbal Singh passes awaySocial worker and Padma Shri awardee, Baba Iqbal Singh, passed away at the age of 95.
- He started his career as a civil servant in Himachal Pradesh's department of agriculture. After retiring from the service as director 1986, he moved to Baru Sahib in Himachal Pradesh's Sirmaur district and started Akal Academy.
- Eventually, Baba Iqbal Singh established 129 low-cost schools and two private universities in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana,Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.He was awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions in the field of social work in 2022.
In Tamil Nadu, Former Member of Parliament S.K.Paramasivan passed away in Tiruchengode. He was 103.
- He was elected to the Lok Sabha from 1962 to 1967. The Congress MP also formed the Milk Producers Association in Erode.
- He was chosen by Dr.Kurien to start the white revolution in Erode in Tamil Nadu. He was called as the Father of Dairies in and around Erode.
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Saturday, January 29, 2022
Static GK Quiz for Upcoming Exams Set – 653
- Static GK Questions for SBI PO/Clerk, IBPS RRB, IBPS PO/Clerk, RBI Assistant, LIC, NIACL, OICL, NABARD, SEBI and other competitive exams
- Lusaka is the capital of which country?
A) Latvia
B) Paraguay
C) Zambia
D) Sweden
Option C
Explanation: Currency - Zambian Kwacha, President - Hakainde Hichilema
- The Santosh Trophy is related to which sports?
A) Golf
B) Football
C) Tennis
D) Cricket
Option B
Explanation: The Senior National Football Championship or Santosh Trophy is a football knock-out competition contested by the regional state associations and government institutions under the All India Football Federation, the sport's governing body in India.
- What is name of the Governor of Uttar Pradesh?
A) Satyadev Narayan Arya
B) Baby Rani Maurya
C) Anandiben Mafatbhai Patel
D) Bhagat Singh Koshyari
Option C
Explanation: Capital - Lucknow, Chief minister - Yogi Adityanath
- International Literacy Day is celebrated on_____?
A) December 5
B) September 8
C) August 1
D) October 2
Option B
- Agra lies along the banks of which river?
A) Mahanadi
B) Narmada
C) Ganges
D) Yamuna
Option D
- Cheraw dance is an Indian folk dance basically of which state?
A) Mizoram
B) Nagaland
C) Assam
D) Sikkim
Option A
Explanation: Cheraw dance is a traditional cultural dance performed in Mizoram, India, consisting of mostly six to eight people holding pairs of bamboo staves on another horizontally placed bamboo on the ground.
- Jagdalpur Airport is located in which state?
A) Chhattisgarh
B) Rajasthan
C) Haryana
D) Kerala
Option A
- Gir National Park is well known for Asiatic Lions. It is based in which state?
A) Gujarat
B) Uttarakhand
C) Sikkim
D) Karnataka
Option A
Explanation: Gir Forest National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, western India. It was established to protect Asiatic lions, who frequent the fenced-off Devalia Safari Park, along with leopards and antelopes. Gir Jungle Trail, outside the fenced area, traverses deciduous forest and is home to wildlife including vultures and pythons. The Kamleshwar Dam has marsh crocodiles and birds, such as Indian skimmers and pelicans.
- What is the currency of Algeria?
A) Euro
B) Peso
C) Pound
D) Dinar
Option D
Explanation: Capital – Algiers, President - Abdelmadjid Tebboune
- Amnesty International is based in ______?
A) Vienna, Austria
B) Paris, France
C) Lausanne, Switzerland
D) London, United Kingdom
Option D
Explanation: Founded - July 1961, Secretary-General - Agnès Callamard
GA Revision for Banking and Other Exams – 1070
- The Centre has brought ordinance to extend the tenure of Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) directors up to how many years?
A) 5
B) 6
C) 8
D) 12
Option A
Explanation: The Centre has brought ordinance to extend the tenure of Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) directors up to 5 years.
- Who is the author of book Sunrise Over Ayodhya: Nationhood in Our Times’?
A) Amir Khan
B) SulemanAnsari
C) AnilBaijal
D) Salman Khurshid
Option D
Explanation: Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has said that he never called Hindutva and ISIS same in his new book, but similar as a major controversy continued over the issue.
- Which of the following Payments Bank is the first one to start giving its services in India?
A) Paytm Payments Bank
B) India Post Payments Bank
C) Airtel Payments Bank
D) Fino Payments Bank
Option C
- Judima, a home-made rice wine from which state gOt GI tag?
A) West Bengal
B) Assam
C) Uttar Pradesh
D) Rajasthan
Option B
Explanation: Judima, a home-made rice wine from Assam and Sojat Mehndi (Henna) from Rajasthan, has been awarded the geographical indication (GI) tag.
- Where is the Dantiwada Dam built?
A) Gujarat
B) Assam
C) Jammu & Kashmir
D) Madhya Pradesh
Option A
Explanation: The Dantiwada Dam is a mud and masonry dam on the West Banas River near Dantiwada, Banaskantha district of northern Gujarat in India. The dam was constructed in 1965 mainly for irrigation and flood control.
- The Centre issued a notification on extension of the tenure of Defence Secretary, Home Secretary, Director of Intelligence Bureau, Secretary of Research and Analysis Wing for the period of how many years?
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 5
Option B
Explanation: The Centre issued a notification on extension of the tenure of Defence Secretary, Home Secretary, Director of Intelligence Bureau, Secretary of Research and Analysis Wing for the period of two years.
- When is the International Day of Tolerance observed?
A) November 17
B) November 14
C) November 16
D) November 15
Option C
Explanation: November 16 commemorates the International Day of Tolerance, every year. This is a UN declared day that aims at creating public awareness on the dangers of intolerance.
- Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the country’s first “Sports Arbitration Centre of India” in which state?
A) Uttar Pradesh
B) Gujarat
C) Punjab
D) Kerala
Option B
Explanation: Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the country’s first “Sports Arbitration Centre of India” in Gujarat which will serve as an independent body to fast track disputes in the sports sector.
- Who won the 2021 JCB Prize for Literature?
A) Ramesh Bakshi
B) Nanda Kumar
C) Fathima
D) M Mukundan
Option D
Explanation: Mukundan’s “Delhi: A Soliloquy”, translated from Malayalam by Fathima E.V. and Nandakumar K., was announced winner of the JCB Prize for Literature.
- which earth monitoring satellite was launched from California that has recorded human and natural impacts on Earth’s surface for decades?
A) LandSat 9
B) LandSat 7
C) Sat 8
D) Land 9 X
Option A
Explanation: The latest in a series of U.S. satellites that has recorded human and natural impacts on Earth’s surface for decades was launched into orbit from California to ensure continued observations in the era of climate change.
- The purpose of Round Revolution is ___?
A) Horticulture Production
B) Oil seeds Production
C) Cotton Production
D) Potato Production
Option D
Explanation: Round revolution is the revolution adopted by the Government of India for the increase in production of Potato. This revolution is aimed to make the production doubled or tripled instead of single annual increase.
- Who will head the committee that has been formed by the government to investigate Pandora Papers Leak?
A) JB Mohapatra
B) Ankit Jain
C) Digvijay Singh
D) Amitabh Kant
Option A
Explanation: Government said that the cases pertaining to Pandora Papers will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken in such cases as per law.
- Who have won the 2021 KidsRights International Children’s Peace Prize for tackling pollution from household waste?
A) Priyank and Varsha
B) Vihaan and Nav Agarwal
C) Vimal and AnkurJaiswal
D) Vikash and Navankur Singh
Option B
Explanation: Two Indian teenage brothers have won the 2021 KidsRights International Children’s Peace Prize for tackling pollution from household waste.
- What is the currency of Bangladesh?
A) Taka
B) Dinar
C) Rial
D) Peso
Option A
Explanation: Capital - Dhaka, Prime minister - Sheikh Hasina, President - Abdul Hamid
- Which of the folowing bank has been empaneled as “Settlement Bank “by National Stock Exchange?
A) Bank of India
B) Bank of Baroda
C) Uco Bank
D) Yes Bank
Option D
Explanation:
Daily Current Affairs 29th January, 2022
Daily Current Affairs 29 January 2022 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.
The world’s largest canal lock was inaugurated by Dutch King Willen-Alexander at Ijmuiden The Netherlands .$338 million amount has been spent on the construction on this project.
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said its international payments arm NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with TerraPay, Netherlands-based global payments infrastructure company to allow Indians with an active UPI ID to receive real-time, international payments into their bank accounts via TerraPay’s secure payments technology.
One97 Communications Limited that owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading digital payments and financial services platform, announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Paytm Money has introduced India’s first intelligent messenger, revolutionizing the way users invest and track markets.
Agri-tech start-up Faarms in association with Reliance General Insurance Company Ltd. (RGICL) has introduced customised digital insurance solutions for the rural population especially the farmers.
Malaysia's AirAsia Group said it has changed the name of its listed holding company to Capital A to reflect the diversity of its business portfolio as it seeks to grow its non-airline revenue.
Alphabet Inc's Google (GOOGL.O) will invest up to $1 billion in India's Bharti Airtel (BRTI.NS) as the U.S. technology giant expands its hold in India, sending shares of the telecom operator as much as 6.6% higher.
Pushp Kumar Joshi has been picked by government headhunter PESB to be the new chairman and managing director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), the nation's third largest oil refining and fuel marketing company.
Fairfax and Capital Group-backed non-banking finance company IIFL Finance appointed former State Bank of India boss Arun Purwar as chairman of its board effective from April 1.
Dr V. Anantha Nageswaran has been appointed Chief Economic Advisor to the government of India.
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) in Erode district has been given the prestigious TX2 award after its tiger numbers doubled to 80 since 2010. Apart from the STR, the Bardia National Park in Nepal has won this year’s TX2 award for doubling the population of wild tigers.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have retained the distinction of bagging the highest number of gallantry medals among all States, Union Territories and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the country on this years Republic Day.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's ALH MK III aircraft was formally inducted at INS Utkrosh in Port Blair by Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), Lieutenant General Ajai Singh.
The Lok Sabha secretariat has launched a new app, Digital Sansad, that will make it easier for people to follow proceedings in Parliament, and also their own lawmakers.
Marathi author and social activist Anil Awachat, better known as Baba, died on Thursday. He was 78.
The book titled 'Operation Khatma' has been released. It is an eyewitness account by two journalists R C Ganjoo and Ashwini Bhatnagar.
As the country celebrated Republic Day recently, Ruskin Bond’s new book, ‘A Little Book of India: Celebrating 75 years of Independence’ came in.
Minister of State for Culture Meenakashi Lekhi has released the pictorial comic book ‘India’s Women Unsung Heroes’ in New Delhi.
The former finance secretary of India, Subhash Chandra Garg has announced his debut book named “The $10 Trillion Dream”.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Netherlands unveils 'world's-largest' canal lockThe world’s largest canal lock was inaugurated by Dutch King Willen-Alexander at Ijmuiden The Netherlands .$338 million amount has been spent on the construction on this project.
- The Ijmuiden sea lock is 500-meter (1,640-feet) long and 70-meter wide. Construction on the massive infrastructure project began in 2016 and was meant to be done by 2019.
BANKING & FINANCE
TerraPay, NPCI International partner to enable real-time, international paymentsNational Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said its international payments arm NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with TerraPay, Netherlands-based global payments infrastructure company to allow Indians with an active UPI ID to receive real-time, international payments into their bank accounts via TerraPay’s secure payments technology.
- India receives approximately US$ 80 billion in cross-border remittances each year, making it the world's largest recipient.
- This collaboration with TerraPay aims to make cross-border remittances as simple and convenient as possible, thanks to the UPI platform's best-in-class real-time capabilities.
One97 Communications Limited that owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading digital payments and financial services platform, announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Paytm Money has introduced India’s first intelligent messenger, revolutionizing the way users invest and track markets.
- The company has launched ‘Pops’, with which users can receive specific information related to their stocks, analysis about their portfolio, market news, and important market movements in an easy to consume format, all in one place.
- The platform will also serve as a marketplace to offer stock recommendations, news insights, and other services.
Agri-tech start-up Faarms in association with Reliance General Insurance Company Ltd. (RGICL) has introduced customised digital insurance solutions for the rural population especially the farmers.
- Under this collaboration, not just the farmers but any individual from rural areas can conveniently access and choose from a range of health and cattle insurance on the Faarms app at the touch of a button on their smartphones, Faarms said.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
Malaysias AirAsia renamed Capital A to show it's more than an airlineMalaysia's AirAsia Group said it has changed the name of its listed holding company to Capital A to reflect the diversity of its business portfolio as it seeks to grow its non-airline revenue.
- The airline retains the AirAsia brand name. But the group will focus more on expanding other businesses including logistics, aircraft engineering, venture capital, education and mobile applications for payments, travel and lifestyle.
Alphabet Inc's Google (GOOGL.O) will invest up to $1 billion in India's Bharti Airtel (BRTI.NS) as the U.S. technology giant expands its hold in India, sending shares of the telecom operator as much as 6.6% higher.
- The investment is part of Google's plans announced under two years ago to infuse $10 billion in India via its digitisation fund over five to seven years through equity deals and tie-ups.
APPOINTMENTS
Pushp Kumar Joshi to be new chairman and managing director of HPCLPushp Kumar Joshi has been picked by government headhunter PESB to be the new chairman and managing director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), the nation's third largest oil refining and fuel marketing company.
- Joshi, 58, has been on the board of HPCL for almost a decade now.
- He will replace Mukesh Kumar Surana, who superannuates on April 30 this year.
Fairfax and Capital Group-backed non-banking finance company IIFL Finance appointed former State Bank of India boss Arun Purwar as chairman of its board effective from April 1.
- Purwar is a veteran banker and was Chairman of the country’s largest bank - State Bank of India from November 2002 to May 2006. He was credited with the core banking initiative and stepping up the bank’s focus on the retail segment. He played an important role in starting SBI’s life insurance company- SBI Life Insurance Company.
Dr V. Anantha Nageswaran has been appointed Chief Economic Advisor to the government of India.
- Prior to this appointment, Dr. Nageswaran has worked as a writer, author, teacher and consultant. He has taught at several business schools and institutes of management in India and in Singapore.
AWARDS
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve bags TX2 awardSathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) in Erode district has been given the prestigious TX2 award after its tiger numbers doubled to 80 since 2010. Apart from the STR, the Bardia National Park in Nepal has won this year’s TX2 award for doubling the population of wild tigers.
- The award acknowledges the efforts by the State governments and the local communities which have played one of the most important roles to turn a relatively new tiger reserve into one of the source populations of tigers in India.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have retained the distinction of bagging the highest number of gallantry medals among all States, Union Territories and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the country on this years Republic Day.
- Fighting the 32-year-long armed insurgency, the J&K Police have got as many as 115 Police Medals for Gallantry (PMGs) announced by the Government of India a day ahead of the Republic Day. The next highest slot has been retained by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) with 30 PMGs.
- Only seven States and two Union Territories (UTs) figure among the recipients of this year's gallantry medals.
- While Chhattisgarh has bagged 10 PMGs, nine have gone to Odisha and seven to Maharashtra. Madhya Pradesh and Delhi have bagged three each, Jharkhand two and Uttar Pradesh and Manipur one each.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Made in India ALH MK III aircraft inducted at INS UtkroshHindustan Aeronautics Limited's ALH MK III aircraft was formally inducted at INS Utkrosh in Port Blair by Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), Lieutenant General Ajai Singh.
- The induction of indigenously built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) MK III is a major step forward towards self-reliance or 'atma nirbhata' in the area of military aircraft preparedness.
- To date, over 300 of these aircraft have been delivered by HAL and are being flown by the Armed Forces. Amongst its variants, the MK III variant is a maritime role variant encompassing state-of-the-art sensors and weapons that add punch to India’s prowess at sea.
The Lok Sabha secretariat has launched a new app, Digital Sansad, that will make it easier for people to follow proceedings in Parliament, and also their own lawmakers.
- In addition, it will also help members of parliament access services such as checking personal updates like status of their notices, House bulletins, etc.
- As MPs are barred from using laptops inside the House, the app comes handy for parliamentary information for MPs during a debate in the House. In future, the MPs can log in for attendance, give questions for the Question Hour or submit notices for debates or adjournment motions.
OBITUARIES
Marathi author, activist Anil Awachat passes awayMarathi author and social activist Anil Awachat, better known as Baba, died on Thursday. He was 78.
- Awachat was the founder-director of the Muktangan Rehabilitation Centre in Pune and associated with several social causes.
- Known for his books including Purnia, Awachat regularly wrote for Marathi magazines and other publications. He also had a stint as a journalist and was known for his reportage.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
Book ‘Operation Khatma’ by R C Ganjoo and Ashwini BhatnagarThe book titled 'Operation Khatma' has been released. It is an eyewitness account by two journalists R C Ganjoo and Ashwini Bhatnagar.
- The operation by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police led to the killing of 22 hardcore terrorists of Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF).
- The 'Operation Khatma' was launched when JKLF commander Shabir Siddiqui and about two dozen of his associate terrorists occupied the Hazratbal shrine in March 1996.
As the country celebrated Republic Day recently, Ruskin Bond’s new book, ‘A Little Book of India: Celebrating 75 years of Independence’ came in.
- Through this book, the author pays homage to the country where he was born and grew up in.
- The book was published by Penguin Random House India (PRHI), the book is an amalgamation of the "physical and spiritual" attributes of India. It promises to take readers on a journey filled with nostalgia and devotion.
Minister of State for Culture Meenakashi Lekhi has released the pictorial comic book ‘India’s Women Unsung Heroes’ in New Delhi.
- The book has been prepared by Culture Ministry in partnership with Amar Chitra Katha.
- The book portrays the tales of valour of our forgotten women freedom fighters.
The former finance secretary of India, Subhash Chandra Garg has announced his debut book named “The $10 Trillion Dream”.
- The book is scheduled to hit stands towards the end of February 2022. It is published by Penguin Random House India (PRHI).
- The new book explores the critical policy issues that India faces today and suggests reforms for it to become a USD 10 trillion economy by the mid-2030s.
Click here to read Daily Current Affairs
Friday, January 28, 2022
Static GK Quiz for Upcoming Exams Set – 652
- Static GK Questions for SBI PO/Clerk, IBPS RRB, IBPS PO/Clerk, RBI Assistant, LIC, NIACL, OICL, NABARD, SEBI and other competitive exams
- What is the name of the currency of Myanmar?
A) Won
B) Burmese kyat
C) Peso
D) Rufiya
Option B
Explanation: Capital - Naypyitaw, President - Win Myint
- Which of these stadiums is located in New Delhi?
A) M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
B) Wankhede Stadium
C) Eden Gardens
D) Feroz Shah Kotla
Option D
- The Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is located in which of these states?
A) Telangana
B) Punjab
C) Uttarakhand
D) Bihar
Option A
Explanation: Hyderabad, Telangana
- The European Organization for Nuclear Research, CERN, is based in____?
A) Montreal, Canada
B) London, United Kingdom
C) Geneva, Switzerland
D) Paris, France
Option C
- Who is the current Minister of Commerce and Industry in the Government of India Ministry?
A) Narendra Singh Tomar
B) DV Sadananda Gowda
C) Amit Shah
D) Piyush Goel
Option D
- What is the currency of Denmark?
A) Krone
B) Franc
C) Kuna
D) Lev
Option A
Explanation: Capital – Copenhagen
- Tamasha is a traditional dance form originating from which state?
A) Rajasthan
B) Maharashtra
C) Jharkhand
D) Himachal Pradesh
Option B
- Emmanuel Macron is the prime minister of which of the following country?
A) Russia
B) France
C) Italy
D) Germany
Option B
Explanation: Capital - Paris, Currency – Euro, Franc
- When is the World Wide Web Day held?
A) July 20
B) August 1
C) September 5
D) November 18
Option B
- The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is a specialized agency of UN located at___?
A) New York, United States
B) London, United Kingdom
C) Bern, Switzerland
D) Dubai, UAE
Option C
Explanation: Founded – 1874
Daily Current Affairs 28th January, 2022
Daily Current Affairs 28 January 2022 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.
In an important milestone in S&T Cooperation between India and France, an MoU has been signed between CSIR and Institut Pasteur with scope for cooperation in health research.
The Andhra Pradesh government has revised the number of districts in the state, increasing it from the existing 13 to 26.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released a 5-year roadmap and Vision Document 2.0 for the electronics sector. The Vision Document 2.0 titled “$300 bn Sustainable Electronics Manufacturing & Exports by 2026” has been prepared by MeitY in association with the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA).
Karnataka has launched 'Brain Health Initiative', a first-of-its-kind in the country, undertaken by NIMHANS in association with NITI Aayog in the state.
In an effort to improve infrastructure and quality of education in government schools, the State Cabinet has decided to take up the ambitious ‘Mana Ooru-Mana Badi’ as a flagship programme with a budget of Rs 7,289.54 crore in three phases over a period of three years.
Indian Naval Ships Shivalik & Kadmatt undertook Maritime Partnership Exercise with Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force Ships Uraga and Hirado in the Bay of Bengal.
Adding another marvel to its truly incredible architecture, Dubai has thrown the 'Infinity Bridge' open to traffic for the first time.
A $150-million India-UAE venture capital fund to fuel growth of start-ups in India and the UAE was launched from the India Pavilion at EXPO2020 Dubai.
India has paid USD 29.9 million in UN regular budget assessments for the year 2022.
Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd announces protection offering for Indian homemakers by extending its Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan* (UIN: 104N118V02), a Non-Linked Non-Participating Individual Pure Risk Premium Life Insurance Plan, as an independent term insurance cover to them.
Russia has delivered to India all the contracted 70,000 AK-203 Kalashnikov assault rifles as envisaged under a contract signed late last summer between India and Kalashnikov.
The central government had approved the proposed merger Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank with Unity Small Finance Bank (USFB).
The Lucknow franchise of the Indian Premier League will be called Lucknow Super Giants after its owners announced the name chosen by its fans.
The 2021 edition of the FIFA Best Football Awards held in Zurich, Switzerland. The awards ceremony is presented annually by the sport's governing body - FIFA.
The government of Assam has decided to honour renowned industrialist Ratan Tata with the award of 'Asom Baibhav' which is the highest civilian honour of the state.
INS Khukri, the lead ship of the Indian Navy’s Khukri class missile corvettes which was decommissioned last December, was handed over to the Diu administration to be converted into a museum.
The Indian space agency successfully conducted a 25-second qualification test for its liquid propellant-based Vikas engine to be used under the Gaganyaan mission.
Padma awardee and foreign student of one of the initial batches of the Kerala Kalamandalam Milena Salvini died in France. She was 84.
Captain of India's 1964 Tokyo Olympics gold medal-winning hockey team, Charanjit Singh, 93, passed away in Una, Himachal Pradesh, after suffering a heart attack.
The Kerala Bird Atlas (KBA), the first-of-its-kind state-level bird atlas in India, has created solid baseline data about the distribution and abundance of various bird species across all major habitats giving an impetus for futuristic studies.
Kokborok Day, also known as Tripuri Language Day, is observed annually on January 19th throughout the Indian state of Tripura with the goal of developing the Kokborok language.
With an aim to encourage adoption of open data and promote innovation across India’s urban ecosystem, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) announced the initiation of the Open Data Week from 17 January to 21 January.
NATIONAL NEWS
India's CSIR and France's Institut Pasteur sign MoU towards advancement in human healthIn an important milestone in S&T Cooperation between India and France, an MoU has been signed between CSIR and Institut Pasteur with scope for cooperation in health research.
- The MoU calls for the development of potential scientific and technological cooperation and networking in advanced and emerging areas of Human Health between CSIR scientists and institutes/laboratories and the Institut Pasteur and its international network.
The Andhra Pradesh government has revised the number of districts in the state, increasing it from the existing 13 to 26.
- Issuing a gazette notification, the state government gave a nod for the creation of 13 new districts, the process of which is expected to be completed by Telugu New Year in April.
- The new districts include Manyam district, Alluri Sitharama Raju district, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Kona Seema, Eluru, NTR district, Bapatia, Palnadu, Nandyal, Sri Satyasai district, Annamayya district, Sri Balaji district.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released a 5-year roadmap and Vision Document 2.0 for the electronics sector. The Vision Document 2.0 titled “$300 bn Sustainable Electronics Manufacturing & Exports by 2026” has been prepared by MeitY in association with the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA).
- It is the second volume of a two-part Vision Document. Vision Document 2.0 provides a year-wise break-up and production projections for the various products.
- This will help India to transform into a US$300 billion electronics manufacturing powerhouse by 2026, from the current US$75 billion.The first part of the document titled “Increasing India’s Electronics Exports and Share in GVCs” was released in November 2021.
Karnataka has launched 'Brain Health Initiative', a first-of-its-kind in the country, undertaken by NIMHANS in association with NITI Aayog in the state.
- Under this programme, the doctors will be trained in screening and treating mental health patients. The initiative is being rolled out in Bengaluru, Kolar and Chikkaballapur districts on pilot basis.
In an effort to improve infrastructure and quality of education in government schools, the State Cabinet has decided to take up the ambitious ‘Mana Ooru-Mana Badi’ as a flagship programme with a budget of Rs 7,289.54 crore in three phases over a period of three years.
- A total 19.84 lakh students in 26,065 government schools will benefit from the programme, where it will be launched in 35 per cent (9,123) of total schools covering 65 per cent (around 13 lakh) of students in the first phase during the current academic year of 2021-22.
- The programme is aimed at comprehensive development of schools for providing quality education, improving attendance of students and also encourage them to continue their studies for higher classes as well as introduce digital media education in a phased manner for better academic results.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
India undertakes Maritime Partnership Exercise with JapanIndian Naval Ships Shivalik & Kadmatt undertook Maritime Partnership Exercise with Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force Ships Uraga and Hirado in the Bay of Bengal.
- The exercise included a wide range of flying operations, replenishment approaches and tactical manoeuvres.
- The precision, coordination and high level of interoperability reflected not only the high standards of professionalism and preparedness the two navies maintain to counter threats at sea, but also the high level of trust and understanding that they have built over the years.
Adding another marvel to its truly incredible architecture, Dubai has thrown the 'Infinity Bridge' open to traffic for the first time.
- The bridge consists of six lanes and improves the link between Deira and Bur Dubai. It features a combined 3-metre track for pedestrians and cyclists.
- It has increased the total number of lanes crossing Dubai Creek from 48 to 60. It is 300 metres long and 22 metres wide and can accommodate 24,000 vehicles in both directions.
- First announced in 2018, the Infinity Bridge is part of a Al Shindagha Corridor Project. Consisting of six lanes in each direction, the bridge has an arch shaped like the infinity symbol - which symbolises Dubai’s unlimited ambitions.
A $150-million India-UAE venture capital fund to fuel growth of start-ups in India and the UAE was launched from the India Pavilion at EXPO2020 Dubai.
- The VC Fund is a first-of-its-kind to be set up in the UAE to source, invest and nurture promising start-ups through an accelerator to fuel the growth of India-UAE start-ups. It will be funded by investors across UAE, India and wider GCC countries.
- The Fund will also act as a catalyst to provide a process for developing early-stage start-ups in India and the UAE into viable global ventures and making them attain the unicorn level.
India has paid USD 29.9 million in UN regular budget assessments for the year 2022.
- As of January 21, 2022, 24 Member States have paid their regular budget assessments in full.
- India is currently a non-permanent member of the 15-nation Security Council and its two-year term will end on December 31, 2022.
BANKING & FINANCE
Max Life and Policybazaar come together to enhance homemakers' financial protectionMax Life Insurance Co. Ltd announces protection offering for Indian homemakers by extending its Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan* (UIN: 104N118V02), a Non-Linked Non-Participating Individual Pure Risk Premium Life Insurance Plan, as an independent term insurance cover to them.
- Currently, homemakers in India are typically allowed term cover only as an add-on to their earning spouse’s cover. In this parlance, the ‘Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan’ offered on Policybazaar will help secure female homemakers’ lives independent of their spouse’s life insurance cover. Max Life and Policybazaar are partnering to address critical challenges of this customer base and improve penetration in the largely untapped segment.
- To make financial protection more accessible, the ‘Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan’ will be available to consumers where household income is a minimum of Rs. 5 Lakhs per annum. Different variants of the plan, with mortality and all rider benefits, will be available to homemakers in the age group of 18 to 50 years.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
Russia delivers all the contracted 70000 AK-203 to IndiaRussia has delivered to India all the contracted 70,000 AK-203 Kalashnikov assault rifles as envisaged under a contract signed late last summer between India and Kalashnikov.
- The Indian Ministry of Defence intends to procure 670,000 AK-203 assault rifles, and the 70,000 delivered are part of that total.
- The rest of the 600,000 will be manufactured in India's Amethi under a joint venture, the contract for which was signed on December 6, 2021.
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS
Government approves PMC Bank merger with Unity Small Finance BankThe central government had approved the proposed merger Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank with Unity Small Finance Bank (USFB).
- All the branches of the PMC Bank will function as branches of Unity Small Finance Bank Ltd. with effect from this date, January 25, 2022, RBI further stated.
- The RBI had in December extended the restrictions on Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank for another three months till the end of March, 2022 as all necessary process on the draft scheme for the takeover was not complete.
SPORTS
Lucknow IPL team to be called Lucknow Super GiantsThe Lucknow franchise of the Indian Premier League will be called Lucknow Super Giants after its owners announced the name chosen by its fans.
- The official IPL team of Lucknow, owned by RPSG Group, decided to take public opinions from its fans and the name was shared by owner Sanjiv Goenka.
AWARDS
FIFA's The Best awards 2021 announcedThe 2021 edition of the FIFA Best Football Awards held in Zurich, Switzerland. The awards ceremony is presented annually by the sport's governing body - FIFA.
- Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas and Poland/Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski were awarded the Best FIFA Players in women’s and men’s football respectively. Lewandowski won the Best FIFA Men’s Player Award for the second straight year, after getting the first one in 2020.
- Best FIFA Men’s Player :Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich, Poland)
- Best FIFA Women’s Player :Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, Spain)
- Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper : Édouard Mendy (Chelsea, Senegal)
- Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper :Christiane Endler (Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon, Chile)
- Best FIFA Men’s Coach : Thomas Tuchel (Chelsea, Germany)
- Best FIFA Women’s Coach : Emma Hayes (Chelsea, England)
- FIFA Fair Play Award : Denmark national football team and medical staff
- FIFA Special Award for an Outstanding Career Achievement : Christine Sinclair (Female) & Cristiano Ronaldo (Male).
The government of Assam has decided to honour renowned industrialist Ratan Tata with the award of 'Asom Baibhav' which is the highest civilian honour of the state.
- Ratan Naval Tata is a well-known Indian Industrialist and also a philanthropist serving as the head of the Tata Group's charitable trusts.
- The Assam government conferred ‘Asom Baibhav’ to Ratan Tata for his contribution to setting up cancer treatment facilities in the state.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Decommissioned INS Khukri to be converted into museumINS Khukri, the lead ship of the Indian Navy’s Khukri class missile corvettes which was decommissioned last December, was handed over to the Diu administration to be converted into a museum.
- The ship is planned to be developed as a full-scale museum, the Navy said.
- As part of developing and revitalising the Khukri Memorial, the Diu administration had approached the Defence Ministry in 2019 for gifting to it, for public display, a decommissioned naval vessel, the Navy said.
The Indian space agency successfully conducted a 25-second qualification test for its liquid propellant-based Vikas engine to be used under the Gaganyaan mission.
- The test, which was conducted at the Indian Space Research Organisation((ISRO) Propulsion Complex in Mahendragri, Tamil Nadu, was done to see how the engine performed in conditions that were not optimal, such as change in the fuel-oxidiser ratio or pressure in the fuel chamber.
- The performance of the engine met the test objectives and the engine parameters were closely matching with the predictions during the entire duration of the test.
OBITUARIES
Milena Salvini, ambassador of Kathakali in France, passes away at 84Padma awardee and foreign student of one of the initial batches of the Kerala Kalamandalam Milena Salvini died in France. She was 84.
- The Italian-born French art researcher was an ambassador of Kathakali and other Indian classical art forms in France.The country honoured her with Padma Shri, recognising her contributions to the field of Kathakali in 2019.
- Milena played a crucial role in getting Unesco recognition for Koodiyattam as an ancient art form and to include it in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity Programme in 2001.
Captain of India's 1964 Tokyo Olympics gold medal-winning hockey team, Charanjit Singh, 93, passed away in Una, Himachal Pradesh, after suffering a heart attack.
- Charanjit was also part of the 1960 Games silver-winning and 1962 Asian Games silver-winning team. The two-time Olympian was a part of India’s glorious days.
- Charanjit was an alumni of Col Brown Cambridge School, Dehradun and Punjab University. After his illustrious career in international hockey, he worked as the director of the Physical Education department in Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla.
ENVIRONMENT
Kerala gets its first ever scientific bird atlasThe Kerala Bird Atlas (KBA), the first-of-its-kind state-level bird atlas in India, has created solid baseline data about the distribution and abundance of various bird species across all major habitats giving an impetus for futuristic studies.
- Conducted as a citizen science-driven exercise with the participation of over 1000 volunteers of the bird watching community, KBA was prepared based on systematic surveys held twice over 60 days a year during the wet (July to September) and dry (January to March) seasons between 2015 and 2020.
IMPORTANT DAYS
Tripura celebrated 44th Kokborok Day on 19th JanuaryKokborok Day, also known as Tripuri Language Day, is observed annually on January 19th throughout the Indian state of Tripura with the goal of developing the Kokborok language.
- The day commemorates the first formal status of Kokborok as a language in 1979.
With an aim to encourage adoption of open data and promote innovation across India’s urban ecosystem, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) announced the initiation of the Open Data Week from 17 January to 21 January.
- The Open Data Week is part of a series of pre-event initiatives, leading up to the ‘Smart Cities: Smart Urbanization’ conference scheduled to be held in Surat, during February 2022, being undertaken by MoHUA to promote awareness and use of open data.
- The event will see participation from all 100 Smart Cities that will be publishing high quality datasets and data blogs on the smart Cities Open Data Portal. Presently, more than 3,800 datasets and more than 60 data stories are already available on the portal to various stakeholders to analyse this data and uncover actionable insights.
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