Daily Current Affairs August 16

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August 16 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Obituary – Daily Current Affairs August 16

1. Who was regarded as the ‘Father of Agni Missiles’ in India?
A) APJ Abdul Kalam
B) Homi J. Bhabha
C) Ram Narain Agarwal
D) Vikram Sarabhai
E) Satish Dhawan
Answer: C) Ram Narain Agarwal

Event and Location:

• Event: Death of Ram Narain Agarwal, known as the ‘Father of Agni Missiles’
• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Date: 17 August 2024 (funeral date)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Legacy: Ram Narain Agarwal, a pivotal figure in India’s missile program, passed away at the age of 84 in Hyderabad.
• Contributions:
  • Agni Missiles: Agarwal was instrumental in initiating the Agni series of missiles, a key part of India’s defense capabilities.
  • Positions Held: He served as the Agni program director and the director of Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) in Hyderabad.
• Recognition: Agarwal was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards.
• DRDO Connection: He was closely associated with the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) initiated by former President and ‘Missile Man’ APJ Abdul Kalam.
• Honors: The Telangana government decided to conduct his funeral with police honors.

Important Terms Explained:

• Agni Missiles: A series of medium to intercontinental-range ballistic missiles developed by India under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
• Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP): A program initiated by APJ Abdul Kalam to develop a range of missiles, including Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Trishul, and Nag.

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs August 16

2. What is the name of the ultra-premium credit card launched by Axis Bank in partnership with Visa?
A) Elite
B) Infinity
C) Primus
D) Platinum
E) Burgundy
Answer: C) Primus

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of an ultra-premium credit card by Axis Bank in partnership with Visa
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Launch: Axis Bank has partnered with Visa to introduce ‘Primus,’ an ultra-premium credit card designed specifically for Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs).
• Target Audience: The card is an invitation-only offering aimed at select ultra-high-net-worth Axis Bank customers.
• Key Features:
  • Exclusive Experiences: Includes luxury experiences such as select culinary journeys, custom-made travel itineraries, private jet access, companion tickets, and invitations to exclusive events.
  • Personalized Concierge Services: Offers unparalleled access, personalized concierge, and luxury rewards.
  • Partnership with Visa: This is Axis Bank’s first partnership with Visa under the Visa Infinite Privilege proposition, offering unique privileges and global acceptance.

Important Terms Explained:

• Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs): Individuals with a net worth significantly higher than average, typically requiring specialized financial services.
• Visa Infinite Privilege: A top-tier credit card proposition by Visa, offering exclusive privileges and luxury experiences to cardholders.

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3. What is the special 500-day interest rate for super senior citizens under the “Vijay Fixed Deposits” scheme launched by RBL Bank?
A) 8.10%
B) 8.60%
C) 8.50%
D) 8.85%
E) 9.00%
Answer: D) 8.85%

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of “Vijay Fixed Deposits” by RBL Bank
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Launch: RBL Bank introduced the “Vijay Fixed Deposits” scheme to commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day.
• Special Tenor: The scheme features a special 500-day tenor for deposits below Rs 3 crore.
• Interest Rates:
  • Super Senior Citizens:8.85% p.a.
  • Senior Citizens:8.60% p.a.
  • Regular Customers:8.1% p.a.
• Booking Options: Customers can book the fixed deposit through the RBL Bank MoBank app or by visiting the nearest RBL Bank branch.

RBL Bank FD Rates (as of July 29, 2024):

• Interest rates vary based on the tenor, with the highest rates being offered for the 500-day tenor under the Vijay Fixed Deposits scheme.

Recent Milestone:

• RBL Bank recently integrated UPI and NCMC capabilities on RuPay Credit Cards, becoming the first private sector bank in India to offer this full range of payment options.

Important Terms Explained:

• Super Senior Citizens: Typically refers to individuals aged 80 years and above.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI): An instant real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• National Common Mobility Card (NCMC): A contactless payment card introduced by the Government of India for seamless travel and payments across various modes of transport and retail.

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4. What strategic transition did L&T Finance Ltd. undergo following the merger of its key subsidiaries?
A) Transition to NBFC-MFI
B) Transition to NBFC-ICC
C) Transition to NBFC-FD
D) Transition to NBFC-ND-SI
E) Transition to NBFC-AFC
Answer: B) Transition to NBFC-ICC

Event and Location:

• Event: Transition of L&T Finance Ltd. to a Non-Banking Financial Company (Investment and Credit Company) (NBFC-ICC)
• Location: India
• Date: 2 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Transition: L&T Finance Ltd. transitioned from being an NBFC-Core Investment Company (NBFC-CIC) to an NBFC-ICC following the merger of several wholly-owned subsidiaries, including L&T Finance, L&T Infra Credit Ltd., and L&T Mutual Fund Trustee Ltd.
• Approval: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a new certificate of registration on August 2, 2024, confirming the transition.
• Financial Performance:
  • Net Profit: L&T Finance Ltd. reported a record net profit of ₹685 crore for Q1 FY25, a 29% year-on-year increase.
  • Loan Book Growth: The consolidated loan book grew by 13% year-on-year to ₹88,717 crore as of June 30, 2024, with retail loans comprising 95% of the total.
• Stock Performance: Despite a slight decline in its stock price, L&T Finance’s stock showed resilience, with a 29.84% rise over the past 12 months.

Important Terms Explained:

• NBFC-ICC (Non-Banking Financial Company – Investment and Credit Company): A type of NBFC that engages in the business of providing loans, advances, and investments in shares and securities.
• NBFC-CIC (Core Investment Company): A type of NBFC that primarily holds investments in group companies, with 90% of its assets in the form of investments.

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs August 16

5. Who is Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand’s new, youngest prime minister?
A) Daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra
B) Former leader of the Move Forward Party
C) Member of the military establishment in Thailand
D) The first female prime minister of Thailand
E) Founder of the Pheu Thai Party
Answer: A) Daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra

Event and Location:

• Event: Election of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thailand’s youngest prime minister
• Location: Thailand
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Background: Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected as Thailand’s youngest and second-ever female prime minister on August 16, 2024.
• Political Background:
  • Family Legacy: Paetongtarn is the youngest child of Thaksin Shinawatra, who served as Prime Minister of Thailand from 2001 until he was ousted in a military coup in 2006. Her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, also served as Prime Minister from 2011 until she was removed by the Constitutional Court in 2014.
  • Political Career: Paetongtarn began her political career in 2021 as the chief of the Pheu Thai Party’s Inclusion and Innovation Advisory Committee. She was also a favored candidate during the 2023 elections.
• Political Context:
  • Srettha Thavisin’s Removal: Paetongtarn’s election comes just after the dismissal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court due to ethical concerns.
  • Challenges: Paetongtarn faces significant challenges, including a struggling economy, dwindling party popularity, and the potential rise of opposition parties such as the People’s Party.
• Risks: Paetongtarn’s ascension to power is seen as a risky move by her father, Thaksin, especially given Thailand’s history of political turmoil, military coups, and court rulings against populist leaders.

Important Terms Explained:

• Pheu Thai Party: A major political party in Thailand, founded by Thaksin Shinawatra, known for its populist policies.
• Constitutional Court of Thailand: The highest constitutional authority in Thailand, which has the power to dissolve political parties and remove prime ministers.

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs August 16

6. Who was conferred the ‘Distinguished Mentor’ award at the 9th annual conference of ACP – India Chapter in Lucknow?
A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
B) Dr. Harsh Vardhan
C) Dr. Jitendra Singh
D) Dr. S. Jaishankar
E) Dr. Randeep Guleria
Answer: C) Dr. Jitendra Singh

Event and Location:

• Event: 9th Annual Conference of ACP – India Chapter
• Location: Lucknow
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Award: Dr. Jitendra Singh received the ‘Distinguished Mentor of the Year’ award by the American College of Physicians (ACP).
• Address: Dr. Singh discussed India’s growing capability in leading global health research.
• Collaboration: Emphasized the need for collaboration between the private and public sectors and international organizations to advance medical sciences.
• Preventive Healthcare: Prioritized the health of the younger generation, which is essential for building PM Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

Important Terms Explained:

• Distinguished Mentor of the Year Award: Recognition for exceptional mentoring in the medical field, awarded by ACP.
• Viksit Bharat 2047: Vision by PM Modi for a developed India by 2047.
• Preventive Healthcare: Focus on preventing diseases rather than treating them, especially among the youth.

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7. How many Kirti Chakras were awarded on India’s 78th Independence Day in 2024?
A) 2
B) 3
C) 4
D) 5
E) 6
Answer: C) 4

Event and Location:

• Event: Announcement of Gallantry Awards on India’s 78th Independence Day
• Location: India
• Date: 15 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Gallantry Awards: The Government of India announced 103 gallantry awards for Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces personnel, including four Kirti Chakras, three of which were awarded posthumously.
• Kirti Chakra Recipients:
  • Colonel Manpreet Singh (Posthumous): Awarded for leading an anti-terror operation in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, where he lost his life.
  • Rifleman Ravi Kumar (Posthumous): Recognized for his bravery in the same operation as Colonel Singh.
  • Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu: Honored for exceptional courage in military operations.
  • Deputy Superintendent Himayun Muzzammil Bhat (Posthumous): Recognized for bravery during a counter-terrorism operation in Anantnag.
• Shaurya Chakras:18 Shaurya Chakras were awarded, reflecting the bravery and dedication of military and police personnel.

Important Terms Explained:

• Kirti Chakra: The second-highest peacetime gallantry award in India, awarded for valor, courageous action, or self-sacrifice away from the battlefield.
• Shaurya Chakra: The third-highest peacetime gallantry award in India, given for acts of gallantry.

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8. Who won the Best Actor award at the 70th National Film Awards?
A) Amitabh Bachchan
B) Yash
C) Rishabh Shetty
D) Jr NTR
E) Rajinikanth
Answer: C) Rishabh Shetty

Event and Location:

• Event: 70th National Film Awards
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• National Film Awards: The 70th National Film Awards were announced on August 16, 2024. The awards honor the best films and talents in Indian cinema for films certified in 2022.
• Biggest Wins:
  • Best Actor: Rishabh Shetty won the Best Actor award for his performance in the Kannada film Kantara. In the film, he plays a village muscle who realizes his true potential as the savior of his people. Rishabh Shetty also directed the film, which became the biggest Kannada hit after the KGF franchise.
  • Best Actress: The award was shared between Nithya Menen for Thiruchitrambalam and Manasi Parekh for Kutch Express.
  • Best Director: Sooraj Bharjatya won the Best Director award for the film Uunchaai, starring Amitabh Bachchan.
  • Best Supporting Actress: Neena Gupta won the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Uunchaai.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Film Awards: One of the most prestigious film awards in India, recognizing excellence in Indian cinema.

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs August 16

9. What was the primary satellite launched aboard the SSLV-D3 mission by ISRO?
A) AzaadiSAT-2
B) Microsat-2A
C) EOS-08
D) Janus-1
E) SR-0 DEMOSAT
Answer: C) EOS-08

Event and Location:

• Event: Successful launch of the SSLV-D3 mission by ISRO
• Location: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India
• Date: 18 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Launch Details: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 mission, which carried the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) as its primary payload. The SSLV-D3 also carried a small co-passenger satellite, SR-0 DEMOSAT, developed by Space Kidz India.
• Satellite Details:
  • EOS-08: Weighing 175.5 kg, the EOS-08 satellite was designed for environmental monitoring, natural disaster management, and to assist with India’s Gaganyaan mission.
  • Advanced Payloads: The EOS-08 carries three main payloads:
    • Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): For satellite-based surveillance and environmental monitoring.
    • Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R): For ocean surface wind analysis and flood detection.
    • SiC UV Dosimeter: For monitoring UV irradiance.
  • Mission Life: The satellite has a mission life of one year.
• SSLV Details: The SSLV, ISRO’s smallest rocket, is designed to carry small satellites (10 to 500 kg) into low Earth orbit. This was the third and final developmental flight of SSLV, marking the completion of its development phase.

Important Terms Explained:

• Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08): A satellite designed for monitoring the Earth’s environment, providing critical data for disaster management and other applications.
• Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): A compact launch vehicle developed by ISRO to meet the growing demand for launching small satellites efficiently.

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 16

10. What was the focus of discussions during the 6th India-Australia Maritime Security Dialogue?
A) Economic cooperation
B) Maritime domain awareness and HADR coordination
C) Defense cooperation
D) Counter-terrorism strategies
E) Trade and investment agreements
Answer: B) Maritime domain awareness and HADR coordination

Event and Location:

• Event: 6th India-Australia Maritime Security Dialogue

Mandates and Objectives:

• Key Discussions:
  • Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): Both countries discussed enhancing awareness and surveillance of maritime regions.
  • Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Coordination on disaster response and relief efforts was a significant focus.
• India-Australia Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism: The 14th meeting was also held, discussing counter-terrorism strategies and cooperation.
• India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP):
  • Established: Upgraded from a Strategic Partnership in 2020, CSP is based on mutual understanding, trust, democracy, and the rule of law.
  • Importance for India:
    • Maritime Cooperation: Australia supports India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the Australia-India Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative Partnership (AIIPOIP).
    • Economic Cooperation: The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) signed in 2022 aims to create at least 10 lakh jobs in India.
    • Defense Cooperation: Includes the Arrangement concerning Mutual Logistics Support (MLSA) and military exercises like AUSTRAHIND.
    • Regional and Multilateral Cooperation: Engagements include G-20, WTO, IOR-ARC, ASEAN Regional Forum, QUAD, and support for the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), 1996 at the UN.

Important Terms Explained:

• Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): The effective understanding of any activity associated with the maritime environment that could impact security, safety, economy, or the environment.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Coordinated efforts to provide aid and assistance to those affected by natural or man-made disasters.
• Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI): An initiative by India to ensure the security and sustainability of the Indo-Pacific region.

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11. What does Germany’s membership in the U.S.-led U.N. Command in South Korea signify?
A) Germany’s withdrawal from NATO
B) Germany’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific and global security
C) Germany’s alignment with North Korea
D) Germany’s decision to station troops in South Korea
E) Germany’s exit from the European Union
Answer: B) Germany’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific and global security

Event and Location:

• Event: Germany’s membership in the U.S.-led U.N. Command (UNC) in South Korea
• Location: Camp Humphreys, Pyeongtaek, South Korea
• Date: 2 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Germany’s Role: By joining the U.N. Command (UNC), Germany is sending a strong signal of its commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthening its role in global security.
• UNC’s Purpose: The UNC is responsible for maintaining the armistice on the Korean Peninsula during peacetime and coordinating military efforts to defend South Korea in the event of war.

Strategic Importance:

• Enhanced Deterrence: Germany’s involvement in the UNC enhances deterrence by expanding the number of countries contributing to the defense of South Korea, especially in light of potential conflicts involving North Korea, China, and other global hotspots.
• Global Security Concerns: With ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and the potential threat of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, Germany’s membership in the UNC supports the U.S. in managing multiple global contingencies.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: Germany’s participation aligns with broader NATO efforts to cooperate closely with Indo-Pacific countries, reinforcing stability and a rules-based order in the region.

Important Terms Explained:

• U.N. Command (UNC): A multinational military body established to defend South Korea, primarily led by the U.S.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: Strategic efforts by countries like Germany to engage more actively in the Indo-Pacific region, recognizing its importance for global security and stability.

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 16

12. What is the name of the digital geo-spatial platform launched by MoS Shri Bhagirath Choudhary at the “Space-Driven Solutions for Agricultural Transformation in India” conference?
A) Krishi-Monitor
B) Agri-Tech
C) Krishi-Decision Support System
D) Agri-GeoPortal
E) Crop-Insight
Answer: C) Krishi-Decision Support System

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Krishi-Decision Support System (Krishi-DSS) at the “Space-Driven Solutions for Agricultural Transformation in India” conference
• Location: India
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Platform Launch: Krishi-Decision Support System (Krishi-DSS) was launched by MoS Shri Bhagirath Choudhary.
• Purpose: Krishi-DSS is a geo-spatial platform designed to provide real-time data-driven insights on weather patterns, soil conditions, crop health, and more, aimed at empowering stakeholders in agriculture.
• Public-Private Collaboration: Emphasized the need for partnerships between the government, private sector, and academia to enhance the adoption of space technology in agriculture.
• Farmer-Centric Approach: Focus on creating user-friendly solutions to ensure the benefits reach the grassroots level.

Features:

• Crop Mapping & Monitoring: Analyzes cropping patterns for sustainable agriculture.
• Drought Monitoring: Provides near real-time data on soil moisture, crop conditions, and dry spells.
• Field Parcel Segmentation: Delivers precise field data to address specific agricultural needs.
• One Nation-One Soil Information: Offers comprehensive soil data, aiding in crop suitability assessments.
• Ground Truth Data Library: Supports research with essential resources for innovation.

Important Terms Explained:

• Krishi-Decision Support System (Krishi-DSS): A comprehensive geo-spatial platform for Indian agriculture, providing real-time insights and support for decision-making.
• Geo-Spatial Technology: Technology that utilizes data related to the earth’s surface, crucial in fields like precision agriculture and disaster management.

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13. What is the estimated cost approved by the Cabinet for the development of the New Civil Enclave at Bihta, Bihar?
A) Rs.1200 crore
B) Rs.1413 crore
C) Rs.1500 crore
D) Rs.1600 crore
E) Rs.1800 crore
Answer: B) Rs.1413 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of the development of a New Civil Enclave at Bihta, Bihar
• Location: Bihta, Patna, Bihar
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Approval: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Airports Authority of India (AAI) proposal for developing a New Civil Enclave at Bihta, Bihar.
• Estimated Cost: The project is estimated to cost Rs.1413 crore.
• Purpose: The development of the new civil enclave aims to address the anticipated saturation of capacity at Patna Airport.

Infrastructure Details:

• New Integrated Terminal Building: Spanning 66,000 sqm, designed to handle 3000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP) and cater to 50 lakh passengers annually.
• Expansion Potential: The terminal’s capacity can be expanded to handle up to one crore passengers per annum.
• Key Features: Construction of an apron with 10 parking bays for A-321/B-737-800/A-320 type aircraft, and two link taxiways.

Important Terms Explained:

• Airports Authority of India (AAI): A government body responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India.
• Peak Hour Passengers (PHP): The maximum number of passengers handled by the terminal in one hour during peak times.

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14. What is the estimated cost approved by the Cabinet for the development of the new Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport, West Bengal?
A) Rs.1200 crore
B) Rs.1450 crore
C) Rs.1500 crore
D) Rs.1549 crore
E) Rs.1600 crore
Answer: D) Rs.1549 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of the development of a New Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport, West Bengal
• Location: Bagdogra, Siliguri, West Bengal
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Approval: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the proposal by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for developing a New Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport.
• Estimated Cost: The project is estimated to cost Rs.1549 crore.

Infrastructure Details:

• Terminal Building: The new terminal building will span 70,390 sqm, designed to handle 3000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP), with an annual capacity of 10 million passengers.
• Key Features: Construction of an Apron with 10 parking bays suitable for A-321 type aircraft, two link taxiways, and Multi-Level Car Parking.
• Green Building: The terminal will be an environmentally responsible Green Building, utilizing renewable energy sources and maximizing natural lighting to reduce its ecological footprint.

Important Terms Explained:

• Green Building: A building that is environmentally responsible, integrating energy efficiency and sustainable resources to minimize its impact on the environment.
• Peak Hour Passengers (PHP): The maximum number of passengers that the terminal can handle in one hour during peak times.

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15. What is the estimated cost approved by the Cabinet for the development of Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-3?
A) Rs.12,000 crore
B) Rs.14,500 crore
C) Rs.15,611 crore
D) Rs.16,000 crore
E) Rs.18,200 crore
Answer: C) Rs.15,611 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-3
• Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Approval: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Phase-3 of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project.
• Estimated Cost: The total project completion cost is Rs.15,611 crore.
• Corridors:
  • Corridor-1: JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura along Outer Ring Road West, 32.15 Km with 21 stations.
  • Corridor-2: Hosahalli to Kadabagere along Magadi Road, 12.50 Km with 9 stations.
• Total Length: The project will add 44.65 Km to Bengaluru’s Metro Rail Network, which will expand to 220.20 Km upon completion.

Significance:

• Enhanced Connectivity: Improved access to various parts of Bengaluru, including industrial areas, IT hubs, educational institutions, and more.
• Reduction in Traffic Congestion: Expected to alleviate congestion on key routes, especially Outer Ring Road West and Magadi Road.
• Environmental Benefits: Reduction in carbon emissions by providing an efficient public transport alternative.
• Economic Growth: Job creation, improved productivity, and stimulation of local businesses near new metro stations.
• Social Impact: More equitable access to public transport, improving quality of life by reducing commute times.

Important Terms Explained:

• Multi-Modal Integration: Combining various modes of transportation (e.g., metro, buses, trains) for seamless travel.
• Phase-3 Metro Project: An extension of the existing metro network aimed at improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion.

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16. What is the estimated cost approved by the Cabinet for the development of the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project?
A) Rs.10,500 crore
B) Rs.11,000 crore
C) Rs.12,200 crore
D) Rs.13,000 crore
E) Rs.14,000 crore
Answer: C) Rs.12,200 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project
• Location: Thane, Maharashtra
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Approval: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project in Maharashtra.
• Estimated Cost: The project is estimated to cost Rs.12,200 crore.
• Total Length: The ring corridor will have a total length of 29 km (26 km elevated and 3 km underground), with 22 stations.

Key Features:

• Connectivity: The metro line will connect prominent areas like Naupada, Wagle Estate, Dongripada, Hiranandani Estate, Kolshet, and Saket.
• Environmental Impact: The project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ease traffic congestion in Thane.
• Daily Ridership: Expected daily ridership by 2029 is 6.47 lakh passengers, with projections increasing to 8.72 lakh by 2045.
• Execution: The project will be executed by Maha Metro.

Important Terms Explained:

• Value Capture Financing: A method of funding infrastructure projects by capturing the increase in land value resulting from the project.
• Maha Metro: A joint venture of the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra responsible for metro rail projects in the state.

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17. What is the estimated cost approved by the Cabinet for the extension of Pune Metro Phase-1 from Swargate to Katraj?
A) Rs. 2500 crore
B) Rs. 2750 crore
C) Rs. 2954.53 crore
D) Rs. 3000 crore
E) Rs. 3200 crore
Answer: C) Rs. 2954.53 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of Pune Metro Phase-1 project extension from Swargate to Katraj
• Location: Pune, Maharashtra
• Date: 16 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Approval: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the extension of the Swargate to Katraj Underground Line of Pune Metro Phase-I.
• Estimated Cost: The project is estimated to cost Rs. 2954.53 crore.
• Total Length: The extension will span 5.46 km and will include three underground stations, connecting key areas such as Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balaji Nagar, and the Katraj suburbs.

Significance:

• Seamless Connectivity: Integrates with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, linking the metro station with MSRTC and PMPML bus stands.
• Traffic Alleviation: Expected to reduce road traffic congestion and provide a safer, more comfortable travel experience.
• Daily Ridership: Projected daily ridership for 2027 is 95,000 passengers, increasing to 1.97 lakh passengers by 2057.
• Sustainable Development: Supports sustainable urban development by reducing pollution and travel time.

Important Terms Explained:

• Swargate Multimodal Hub: A central transport hub in Pune integrating metro, bus, and other transportation modes.
• Maha-Metro: The agency responsible for executing metro projects in Maharashtra, overseeing civil and electro-mechanical works.

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18. What is the total number of flood monitoring stations included in the upgraded version 2.0 of the ‘FloodWatch India’ mobile app?
A) 200
B) 392
C) 500
D) 592
E) 700
Answer: D) 592

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Version 2.0 of the ‘FloodWatch India’ mobile app
• Location: New Delhi, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Launch: Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C R Paatil, unveiled version 2.0 of the ‘FloodWatch India’ mobile application.
• Developed By: The app was developed by the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Upgraded Features:

• Flood Monitoring Stations: The new version includes data from an additional 392 flood monitoring stations, bringing the total to 592 stations.
• Reservoir Information: Provides information on the storage positions of 150 major reservoirs in the country, helping users understand possible flood situations downstream.
• Technology Used: The app utilizes advanced technologies like satellite data analysis, mathematical modeling, and real-time monitoring.
• User-Friendly Interface: Available in English and Hindi with options for readable and audio broadcast formats.
• Accessibility: The app can be downloaded for free from Google Play Store and Apple App Store and is available for both Android and iOS devices.

Important Terms Explained:

• Central Water Commission (CWC): A premier technical organization in India in the field of water resources, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, responsible for flood forecasting, monitoring, and management.
• FloodWatch India: A mobile application that provides real-time flood forecasts and reservoir data to help users stay informed about flood conditions.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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19. What is the overarching theme of the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit 2024?
A) Global Governance and Development
B) An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future
C) One World-One Health
D) Trade and Economic Cooperation
E) Sustainable Energy Solutions
Answer: B) An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future

Event and Location:

• Event: 3rd Voice of Global South Summit 2024
• Location: Virtual Format
• Date: 17 August 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Summit Overview: The 3rd Voice of Global South Summit will be hosted by India on 17 August 2024 in a virtual format. The summit is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’ and is rooted in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The world is one family).
• Theme: The overarching theme for this year’s summit is “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.”
• Purpose: The summit will serve as a platform for countries of the Global South to discuss and address a range of complex global challenges such as:
  • Conflicts
  • Food and Energy Security Crises
  • Climate Change
• Ministerial Sessions: The summit includes 10 Ministerial Sessions, covering topics such as:
  • Foreign Ministers’ Session: “Charting a Unique Paradigm for Global South”
  • Health Ministers’ Session: “One World-One Health”
  • Youth Ministers’ Session: “Youth Engagement for a Better Future”
  • Finance Ministers’ Session: “People-Centric Approach to Global Finance”

Important Terms Explained:

• Global South: A term used to refer to countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Oceania, generally characterized as developing nations.
• Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: An ancient Indian philosophy meaning “The world is one family,” emphasizing global unity and cooperation.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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