Q 1.Hinglaj Mata Temple, recently seen in news, is located in which country?
A. Pakistan
B. Bangladesh
C. Myanmar
D. Nepal
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Answer:-A. PakistanExplanation
Hindu devotees gather in Hinglaj, Lasbela district, Pakistan, for an annual festival at the ancient cave temple of Hinglaj Mata. The pilgrimage begins with a trek to steep mud volcanoes, where pilgrims climb stairs and rocks to reach the summit. Tossing coconuts and rose petals into the crater, they seek divine permission to visit the temple. Dedicated to Goddess Hinglaj, it’s one of the oldest temples in the Indian subcontinent. Located near the Hingol River, in Balochistan, Pakistan, the temple complex features shrines, caves, and sacred natural formations.Q 2.Which country has recently proposed to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug?
A. India
B. China
C. United States
D. Russia
Show Answer
Answer:-C. United StatesExplanation
The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposes reclassifying marijuana from Schedule-I to Schedule-III, less tightly regulated. President Biden’s suggestion aims to align marijuana regulation with its medical potential, contrasting with Schedule-I categorization alongside heroin and LSD. Despite pending scrutiny by White House Officials and public commentary, the move signals a shift toward acknowledging marijuana’s therapeutic benefits backed by scientific evidence.Q 3.Which regulatory body in India recently approved changes in mutual fund regulations to prevent front-running?
A. Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
B. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
C. National Stock Exchange (NSE)
D. Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
Show Answer
Answer:-B. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)Explanation
SEBI approved changes in mutual fund regulations to combat front-running in Indian asset management companies (AMCs). Front-running, or trading with non-public information ahead of significant transactions, is illegal in India and can impact asset prices. It occurs in various financial markets like stocks and commodities. Common strategies include Buy-Buy-Sell (BBS) and Sell-Sell-Buy (SSB) patterns. These regulatory changes aim to safeguard market integrity and investor interests.Q 4.What is the primary purpose of a Look Out Circular (LOC), recently mentioned in the news?
A. To track the movement of tourists within a country
B. To monitor the movement of goods across borders
C. To facilitate the smooth entry of diplomats into a country
D. To regulate the physical movement of individuals under investigation or wanted by law enforcement agencies
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Answer:-D. To regulate the physical movement of individuals under investigation or wanted by law enforcement agenciesExplanation
The Bombay High Court ruled that public sector banks can’t recommend Look Out Circulars (LOCs) against loan defaulters. LOCs are government directives to immigration authorities, restricting a person’s movement. They’re used by law enforcement to prevent individuals under investigation from leaving or entering the country. Typically issued by police or intelligence agencies, LOCs are a tool authorized by the Ministry of Home Affairs to detain suspects at designated ports.Q 5.According to IQAir, which city has recently been ranked as the most polluted city globally?
A. Kathmandu
B. New Delhi
C. Pokhara
D. Hyderabad
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Answer:-A. KathmanduExplanation
According to IQAir, Kathmandu is the most polluted city in the world as of May 2, 2024. IQAir is a Swiss technology company that monitors the pollution levels of 101 cities in real time. The Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal has advised residents to wear masks due to the alarming increase in air pollution in the Kathmandu valley. In 2023, IQAir’s World Air Quality report ranked India as the third most polluted country and New Delhi as the most polluted capital city.Q 6 .Which organization recently released a satellite-data-based analysis on the expansion of glacial lakes in the catchments of Indian Himalayan river basins?
A. CSIR
B. DRDO
C. ISRO
D. NDMA
Show Answer
Answer:-C. ISROExplanation
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently released a satellite-data-based analysis on the expansion of glacial lakes in the catchments of Indian Himalayan river basins. The analysis uses long-term satellite imagery from 1984 to 2023 to show significant changes in the lakes. According to ISRO, 676 of the 2,431 lakes larger than 10 hectares identified in 2016-17 have expanded significantly since 1984. The analysis highlights the risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and their impact on infrastructure and settlements downstream of such lakes.Q 7.Recently, which country is contemplating the lifting of vehicle import restrictions to stimulate economic growth?
A. Bangladesh
B. Nepal
C. Sri Lanka
D. Myanmar
Show Answer
Answer:-C. Sri LankaExplanation
Sri Lanka is considering lifting vehicle import restrictions to stimulate economic growth, potentially by late 2024 or early 2025. Enforced in response to economic turmoil in 2022, the move aligns with IMF revenue targets but could strain foreign exchange reserves by $800 million. President Wickremasinghe’s committee recommendations are pivotal. Despite its severe economic downturn, the Sri Lankan rupee is stabilizing, hinting at positive developments in its value.Q 8.Which country’s parliament recently passed a law criminalizing same-sex relationships?
A. Iran
B. Iraq
C. Vietnam
D. Egypt
Show Answer
Answer:-B. IraqExplanation
Iraq’s parliament recently passed a law criminalizing same-sex relationships, imposing up to 15 years in prison for such acts. Promoting homosexuality or prostitution can lead to a minimum of seven years behind bars. Additionally, changing one’s biological gender or dressing in an effeminate manner can result in one to three years of imprisonment. The legislation was supported by conservative Shi’ite Muslim parties, aiming to uphold religious values and protect Iraqi society from moral decay.Q 9.Recently, Bru community participated in Lok Sabha elections for the first time as voters from which state?
A. Mizoram
B. Tripura
C. Nagaland
D. Assam
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Answer:-B. TripuraExplanation
In 2024, the Bru community, indigenous to Northeast India, voted for the first time in Tripura’s Lok Sabha elections. Predominantly residing in Tripura, Mizoram, and Assam, they hold Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group status. Ethnically Indo-Mongoloid, they belong to the Austro-Asiatic linguistic groups. This historic development marks a milestone in their socio-political engagement, emphasizing the significance of their inclusion and representation in democratic processes.Q 10.V.Srinivasa Prasad, who recently passed away, was associated with which field?
A. Politics
B. Sports
C. Entertainment
D. Space technology
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Answer:-A. PoliticsExplanation
V Srinivas Prasad, a prominent BJP leader and former Union minister, passed away at 77 due to age-related ailments in Bengaluru. Originally a Congress member, he joined BJP before the 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections. Prasad, a Dalit leader in Old Mysuru, extended support to Congress in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. His political career spanned 50 years, winning 8 of 14 elections. Prasad served as a Union minister and Karnataka’s revenue minister.Q 11. Recently, which IIT has been granted a patent for its cost-effective inverter?
A. IIT Patna
B. IIT Madras
C. IIT Kanpur
D. IIT Bombay
Show Answer
Answer:-A. IIT PatnaExplanation
The Indian Institute of Technology-Patna (IIT-P) secured a patent for its lightweight, compact inverter, developed under the startup scheme ‘Portable Power Technology’. The invention integrates battery and inverter into one unit, reducing weight by 80%. Designed by five young scientists and guided by A K Thakur, it promises clean energy generation with improved battery life. The patent ensures IIT-P’s copyright for 20 years, facilitating commercial use from next month.Q 12. Recently, the Indian Army and the Punit Balan Group collaborated to open the India’s first Constitution Park in which city?
A. Ahmedabad
B. Pune
C. Jaipur
D. Varanasi
Show Answer
Answer:-B. PuneExplanation
The Indian Army and the Punit Balan Group joined hands to inaugurate Pune’s inaugural Constitution Park. Lt. Gen. Ajai Kumar Singh led the ceremony, stressing citizens’ constitutional duties for India’s progress by 2047. He highlighted the global importance of the Indian Constitution, which secures Fundamental Rights and underscores Fundamental Duties. Understanding these rights and responsibilities is pivotal for India’s development.Q 13.What is ‘Antares’, recently seen in news?
A. Submarine
B. AI tool
C. Invasive plant
D. Red supergiant star
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Answer:-D. Red supergiant starExplanation
The Bengaluru-based Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) recorded the moon passing in front of Antares, a massive red supergiant star in Scorpius constellation. Antares, 10,000 times brighter than the Sun, is 700 times its diameter and lies 600 light-years away. Despite its size, Antares has low density and temperature, around 6,100°F (3,400°C), giving it a ruddy color. Red supergiants are large, cool stars approaching the end of their lives, highly luminous but with low surface temperature.Q 14.Recently, who has been appointed as the Presiding Officer of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT)?
A. Meera Swarup
B. Dheeraj Bhatnagar
C. Dinesh Kumar
D. JP Devdhar
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Answer:-C. Dinesh KumarExplanation
Justice (retired) Dinesh Kumar, former Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, has been appointed as the Presiding Officer of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT), filling a 4-month vacancy left by Justice Tarun Aggarwal’s retirement in December 2023. SAT, an autonomous body under the SEBI Act, 1992, hears appeals against orders from financial regulators like SEBI, PFRDA, and IRDAI, aiming to streamline appeal processes outside of High Courts.Q 15.Red Colobus Conservation Action Plan, recently seen in news, is an initiative of which organization?
A. WMO
B. IUCN
C. WHO
D. WWF
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Answer:-B. IUCNExplanation
A new study highlights Red colobus as key to tropical forest conservation. Imperiled across Africa, they’re vital biodiversity indicators and one of two major simian groups globally. Facing extinction due to hunting and habitat loss, over half are Endangered or Critically Endangered. The Red Colobus Conservation Action Plan, led by IUCN, aims to prioritize their conservation, safeguarding Africa’s forests and curbing unsustainable hunting.Q 16.Raja Ravi Varma, recently seen in the news, was associated with which field?
A. Sports
B. Medicine
C. Music
D. Painting and art
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Answer:-D. Painting and artExplanation
The first true copy of Raja Ravi Varma’s painting “Indulekha” will be revealed at Kilimanoor Palace, Kerala, on his 176th birth anniversary. Varma, born in 1848, was a renowned Indian painter, famous for merging European techniques with Indian themes. He created around 7,000 paintings, blending Hindu mythology with Western composition. Varma’s notable works include “Damayanti Talking to a Swan” and “Shakuntala Looking for Dushyanta.” He was pivotal in introducing oil paints and lithographic reproduction to Indian art.Q 17.Recently, where was the ‘Critical Minerals Summit 2024’ held?
A. Hyderabad
B. Chennai
C. New Delhi
D. Bhopal
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Answer:-C. New DelhiExplanation
The Ministry of Mines, along with partners Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, CEEW, and IISD, hosted the “Critical Minerals Summit: Enhancing Beneficiation and Processing Capabilities” in New Delhi from April 29th-30th, 2024. Aimed at bolstering India’s critical mineral supply chain, the summit convenes stakeholders from industry, government, academia, and startups. Key topics include mineral auction progress and sustainable solutions. Technical sessions focus on eight key minerals crucial for clean energy technologies and electric vehicles.Q 18.What is theme of International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2024, recently held in New Delhi?
A. Investing today for a more resilient tomorrow
B. Delivering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure
C. Situating Resilient Infrastructure
D. Future-ready disaster resilient infrastructure
Show Answer
Answer:-A. Investing today for a more resilient tomorrowExplanation
The 6th International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) convened in New Delhi, India, featuring government bodies, global institutions, and media. Hosted by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the theme “Investing Today for a More Resilient Tomorrow” emphasized proactive measures. The conference aimed to foster resilience in infrastructure against disasters and climate change, fostering global collaboration for resilient infrastructure projects.Q 19.Recently, which trade association has launched a corporate governance charter for startups?
A. India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO)
B. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
C. ASSOCHAM
D. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
Show Answer
Answer:-B. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)Explanation
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) releases Corporate Governance Charter for Startups, emphasizing principles like Transparency and Fairness. Aimed at guiding startups towards stability and success, it addresses governance failures seen in high-profile cases like BharatPe and GoMechanic. The charter, applicable to startups under the Companies Act 2013, outlines guidelines for different stages, defining roles and responsibilities, ensuring growth, resilience, and competitiveness.Q 20.Which state’s education department recently released the ‘Guidelines for Elimination of Corporal Punishment (GECP)’?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Maharashtra
C. Gujarat
D.Telangana
Show Answer
Answer:-A. Tamil NaduExplanation
Tamil Nadu issues Guidelines for Elimination of Corporal Punishment in Schools (GECP) to foster safe environments for students, as per Right to Education Act, 2009. The GECP, issued jointly by Directors of School and Elementary Education, aims to prevent physical and mental harm, discrimination. It includes awareness camps on National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) guidelines. Measures include prompt complaint redressal, addressing harassment, mental health concerns, and forming monitoring committees at schools.Q 21.Recently, which Indian has been selected for the ‘Goldman Environmental Prize 2024’?
A. Rajendra Singh
B. Tulsi Gowda
C. Alok Shukla
D. Ramesh Agrawal
Show Answer
Answer:-C. Alok ShuklaExplanation
Chhattisgarh’s Alok Shukla, environmental activist, wins 2024 Goldman Environmental Prize for grassroots efforts. Known as “Green Nobel Prize,” it honors his work in preserving Hasdeo Arand Forest, vital for Chhattisgarh’s ecosystem. Facing coal mining threats, Shukla rallied local tribes, pressuring the government to cancel auctions of 21 coal mines in 2022. His organization, Hasdeo Aranya Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, champions environmental protection in the region.Q 22.Recently, the Indian government has permitted exports of onion to which countries despite the export ban?
A. Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Egypt
B. Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh
C. Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius, Sri Lanka
D. Singapore, Afghanistan, Maldives, Iran
Show Answer
Answer:-C. Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius, Sri LankaExplanation
Despite the export ban, India permits 99,150 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. New Delhi also allows 2,000 tonnes of white onions for Middle East and European markets. National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) handles exports, primarily from Maharashtra. The ban was enforced on December 8, 2023, amid lower crop estimates. Directorate General of Foreign Trade oversees trade matters. Onion buffer procurement target for 2024 is 5 lakh tonnes.Q 23.Recently, which two countries are discussing an agreement to develop an electric propulsion system for Indian warships?
A. India & USA
B. India & UK
C. India & Russia
D. India & China
Show Answer
Answer:-B. India & UKExplanation
India and the UK are discussing an agreement for an electric propulsion system. Indian warships currently use diesel, gas, or steam turbines. The electric system targets larger warships over 6,000 tonnes. It’s a government-to-government deal involving GE Power Conversion and BHEL. They’ll develop the ‘Integrated Full Electric Propulsion System.’ The UK’s Queen Elizabeth Class carriers already use this. Integrated Electric Propulsion (IEP) reduces noise and emissions, moving towards complete electrification.Q 24.What is INS Vikrant, recently seen in news?
A. Submarine
B. Tankers
C. Aircraft carrier
D. Frigates
Show Answer
Answer:-C. Aircraft carrierExplanation
The Indian Navy recently showcased twin carrier operations with its two aircraft carriers: INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. India operates these carriers, with INS Vikrant being the first aircraft carrier purchased from the UK, active since the 1960s. INS Viraat, India’s second carrier, was originally HMS Hermes. INS Vikramaditya, formerly Russia’s Admiral Gorshkov, joined the Indian Navy in 2013, marking India’s third carrier.Q 25.Hangor–class submarines, recently in the news, are launched by which country?
A. Russia
B. China
C. India
D. Pakistan
Show Answer
Answer:-B. ChinaExplanation
China has launched the first of eight Hangor-class submarines for Pakistan under a defense agreement. Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group will construct four, while Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works will build the rest with technology transfer. The submarines boast advanced stealth, equipped with top-tier weapons and sensors to engage threats at stand-off ranges. Pakistan Navy recently inducted two Chinese Type 054 A/P frigates.Q 26.According to Invest India report, India’s e-commerce market is expected to grow to $325 billion by which year?
A. 2025
B. 2027
C. 2030
D. 2040
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Answer:-C. 2030Explanation
Invest India projects India’s e-commerce to reach $325 billion by 2030, driven by 500 million consumers and widespread internet access. It anticipates India becoming the 3rd largest online retail market by 2030. The agency, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, revealed in 2022, e-commerce was worth $70 billion, constituting 7% of retail.Q 27.Recently, which organization has advised all states and UTs to “completely prohibit” all harmful sharp threads or “manjha”?
A. National Green Tribunal
B. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
C. National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board
D. Animal Welfare Board of India
Show Answer
Answer:-D. Animal Welfare Board of IndiaExplanation
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has urged states and UTs to fully prohibit harmful sharp threads or “manjha.” The Delhi High Court instructed the Delhi government to establish a policy for compensating victims of accidents caused by Chinese manjha. In 2017, the NGT mandated a complete ban on manjha. AWBI, a statutory advisory body founded under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, operates from Ballabhgarh, Faridabad, Haryana, focusing on animal welfare and providing grants.Q 28.Ajrakh textile craft, recently seen in news, is mainly associated with which state?
A. Rajasthan
B. Madhya Pradesh
C. Kerala
D. Gujarat
Show Answer
Answer:-D. GujaratExplanation
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks awarded the Geographical Indication certificate to ‘Kutch Ajrakh’ artisans from Gujarat. Ajrakh, a textile craft deeply rooted in Gujarat’s culture, especially in Kutch, Sindh, and Barmer, involves intricate hand-block printing on cotton cloth. Its name derives from ‘Azrak’, meaning indigo, a key dye used. Traditionally, Ajrakh prints symbolize sky (blue), land and fire (red), and stars (white), reflecting rich symbolism and history.Q 29.Which day is celebrated as ‘World Tuna Day’ every year?
A. 1 May
B. 2 May
C. 3 May
D. 4 May
Show Answer
Answer:-B. 2 MayExplanation
World Tuna Day, celebrated annually on May 2nd, highlights the decline in global tuna stocks and the necessity of enforcing international regulations for their preservation. Tuna, vital for both developed and developing nations, faces threats from overfishing. The day emphasizes sustainable fishing practices, reducing bycatch, and promoting international cooperation to ensure future tuna supplies. It serves as a crucial reminder of the urgent need to address the challenges confronting the tuna industry globally.Q 30.Recently, who has been awarded the title of Grandmaster by FIDE, the International Chess Federation?
A. Vaishali Ramesh Babu
B. Surya Sekhar Ganguly
C. Savitha Shri Baskar
D. Tania Sachdev
Show Answer
Answer:-A. Vaishali Ramesh BabuExplanation
Indian Chess Prodigy Vaishali Ramesh Babu, awarded Grandmaster by FIDE, highlighted India’s rising prominence in chess. She anticipates India’s strong showing in the World Championship. Praising Viswanathan Anand’s impact, she credits her father’s decision to steer her towards chess. Supported by her parents, Vaishali became India’s third female Grandmaster after Humpy and Dronavalli. She achieved the 2500 ELO points at the Llobregat Open, with FIDE formally granting her the title at the recent Candidates Tournament in Toronto.Q 31 .Recently, which city is constructing the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport?
A. Bombay
B. Dubai
C. London
D. New York
Show Answer
Answer:-B. DubaiExplanation
Dubai is developing the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s leadership. With a capacity for 260 million passengers annually, it will feature 400 terminal gates and five parallel runways. Beyond transportation, it aims to integrate into urban life, commerce, and global trade, positioning itself as the “world’s airport” within Dubai South. This ambitious project underscores Dubai’s dedication to innovation and global connectivity.Q 32 .Bhimtal Lake, recently seen in news due to forest fires, is located in which state?
A. Gujarat
B. Kerala
C. Uttarakhand
D. Punjab
Show Answer
Answer:-C. UttarakhandExplanation
Recently, an Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter collected water from Bhimtal Lake in Nainital, Uttarakhand to help control a nearby forest fire.The Indian Army and the IAF were called in to help control the blaze, with MI-17 choppers lifting water from the lake for firefighting efforts. Bhimtal Lake, Uttarakhand’s largest lake in the Nainital district, is a centerpiece of the Kumaon region, dubbed India’s “lake district.” Named after the Mahabharata’s Bhima, it formed naturally due to Earth’s crust shifts. Constructed in 1883 during the British era, it features a masonry dam.Q 33 .What is the theme of ‘World Press Freedom Day 2024’?
A. Information as a Public Good
B. Shaping a Future of Rights
C. Journalism under Digital Siege
D. A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis
Show Answer
Answer:-D. A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental CrisisExplanation
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, 2024, focuses on “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.” Emphasizing journalism’s role in addressing global environmental issues, it highlights the importance of a free press in informing the public and holding decision-makers accountable. Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, it commemorates the Declaration of Windhoek, promoting press freedom globally.Q 34 .Which state’s government recently suspended the manufacturing licenses of 14 patanjali products due to misleading advertisement?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Uttarakhand
C. Gujarat
D. Rajasthan
Show Answer
Answer:-B. UttarakhandExplanation
Uttarakhand government suspends Patanjali Ayurved’s manufacturing licenses for 14 products over misleading ads. The company faces scrutiny for non-compliance with advertising regulations. The move, issued on April 24 by the state’s drug regulator, cites Patanjali’s persistent dissemination of deceptive efficacy claims. This action reflects the government’s commitment to enforce truthful advertising standards and holds implications for Ramdev’s legal battles.Q 35.Recently, who took charge as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Training Command (TC)?
A. Swaroop Krishna
B. Nagesh Kapoor
C. Om Prakash Mehra
D. Nirmal Chandra
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