Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing  Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly  current affairs pdf.

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August 10 & 11 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

1. On which date is Nagasaki Day observed annually to commemorate the atomic bombing of Nagasaki?
A) August 6th
B) August 7th
C) August 8th
D) August 9th
E) August 10th
Answer: D) August 9th

Event and Location:

  • Event: Nagasaki Day 2024
  • Location: Nagasaki, Japan

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: To commemorate the atomic bombing of Nagasaki by the United States during World War II.
  • Objectives:
    • Remember the lives lost in the bombing and its aftermath.
    • Raise awareness about the devastating impacts of nuclear weapons on civilian populations.
    • Promote global nuclear disarmament and peaceful conflict resolution.
    • Encourage reflection on the ethical implications of nuclear warfare.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Nagasaki Day: An annual observance on August 9th to remember the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945.
  • Hibakusha: Survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki who faced severe physical and psychological suffering.
  • Fat Man: The nickname of the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki by the U.S. B-29 bomber named Bockscar.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Japan:

  • Capital: Tokyo
  • Currency: Japanese Yen
  • Prime Minister: Fumio Kishida
  • Emperor: Naruhito

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Nagasaki Day 2024
Location Nagasaki, Japan
Date of Observation August 9, 2024
Historical Significance Commemorates the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945
Activities Memorial services, peace vigils, educational programs
Objective Promote nuclear disarmament and peacebuilding

2. What is the primary focus of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024?
A) Promoting Indigenous languages
B) Protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact
C) Encouraging global tourism in Indigenous territories
D) Supporting Indigenous Peoples’ economic development
E) Documenting Indigenous cultural heritage
Answer: B) Protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact

Event and Location:

  • Event: International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024
  • Location: Global observance, with a focus on Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact across countries like Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Peru, and Venezuela.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The day highlights the importance of protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly those living in voluntary isolation and initial contact.
  • Objectives:
    • Raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact.
    • Protect the collective rights of these communities to their lands and territories.
    • Ensure their survival, which is crucial for the protection of forests and the planet.
    • Promote the preservation of their cultural and linguistic diversity.
    • Advocate for the recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ autonomy as enshrined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Voluntary Isolation: The choice of certain Indigenous Peoples to remain detached from the broader society to preserve their traditional way of life.
  • Initial Contact: The early stages of interaction between Indigenous Peoples and the outside world, which can have significant impacts, especially related to disease exposure.
  • UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: An international instrument adopted by the United Nations to protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples, including their right to autonomy and control over their lands and resources.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Bolivia:

  • Capital: Sucre (constitutional), La Paz (seat of government)
  • Currency: Boliviano
  • President: Luis Arce

Brazil:

  • Capital: Brasília
  • Currency: Brazilian Real
  • President: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

Colombia:

  • Capital: Bogotá
  • Currency: Colombian Peso
  • President: Gustavo Petro

Ecuador:

  • Capital: Quito
  • Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
  • President: Daniel Noboa

India:

  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Currency: Indian Rupee
  • Prime Minister: Narendra Modi

Indonesia:

  • Capital: Jakarta
  • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
  • President: Joko Widodo

Papua New Guinea:

  • Capital: Port Moresby
  • Currency: Papua New Guinean Kina
  • Prime Minister: James Marape

Peru:

  • Capital: Lima
  • Currency: Peruvian Sol
  • President: Dina Boluarte

Venezuela:

  • Capital: Caracas
  • Currency: Venezuelan Bolívar
  • President: Nicolás Maduro

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024
Date of Observation August 9, 2024
Focus Theme Protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact
Countries Involved Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Venezuela
Significance Emphasizing the protection of Indigenous rights, cultural diversity, and environmental preservation

3. What is the significance of World Steelpan Day, celebrated on August 11th?
A) To honor the invention of the drum set
B) To celebrate the steelpan’s role in cultural and sustainable development
C) To promote global peace initiatives
D) To recognize advancements in electronic music
E) To commemorate the history of jazz music
Answer: B) To celebrate the steelpan’s role in cultural and sustainable development

Event and Location:

  • Event: World Steelpan Day, celebrated annually on August 11th.
  • Location: Global observance, with origins in Trinidad and Tobago.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed August 11th as World Steelpan Day to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the steelpan.
  • Objectives:
    • Cultural Significance: Acknowledge the steelpan’s origins in Trinidad and Tobago and its role in Carnival traditions.
    • Sustainable Development: Highlight the steelpan’s potential to contribute to sustainable development goals, including cultural diversity, social and economic development, and education.
    • Global Awareness: Encourage stakeholders to organize activities that promote the steelpan’s cultural heritage and its link to sustainable development, mental health, gender equality, and youth empowerment.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Steelpan: A musical instrument originating in Trinidad and Tobago, typically played with sticks tipped with rubber. It is central to steelbands or steel orchestras.
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A set of 17 global goals established by the United Nations in 2015 to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change by 2030.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Trinidad and Tobago:

  • Capital: Port of Spain
  • Currency: Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)
  • President: Paula-Mae Weekes
  • Prime Minister: Keith Rowley

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event World Steelpan Day
Date August 11th
Origin of Steelpan Trinidad and Tobago
Significance Celebrates the steelpan’s cultural and historical impact and its role in sustainable development
Cultural Impact Promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities, and creative economy
Link to SDGs Supports cultural diversity, education, and mental health initiatives

4. What was the theme of the Indian Cost Accounts Service (ICoAS) Foundation Day celebrated on August 9, 2024?
A) ICoAS @ Digital India
B) ICoAS @ Sustainable Growth
C) ICoAS @ Viksit Bharat
D) ICoAS @ Financial Inclusion
E) ICoAS @ Make in India
Answer: C) ICoAS @ Viksit Bharat

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Cost Accounts Service (ICoAS) Foundation Day celebration.
  • Location: New Delhi, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The ICoAS Foundation Day was celebrated with the theme “ICoAS @ Viksit Bharat,” focusing on the role of ICoAS officers in contributing to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
  • Objectives:
    • Recognition and Appreciation: Highlight the dedication, expertise, and commitment of ICoAS officers in shaping India’s economic landscape.
    • Vision for 2047: Emphasize the crucial role of ICoAS in achieving the goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” which envisions a developed and prosperous India.
    • Capacity Building: Provide a platform for knowledge sharing and capacity building among ICoAS officers.
    • Cost Control and Cost Reduction: Discuss the importance of cost control and cost reduction techniques in improving financial service delivery.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Indian Cost Accounts Service (ICoAS): A central civil service under the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, responsible for cost management, cost control, and cost audit in the government sector.
  • Viksit Bharat 2047: A vision for India to become a developed nation by the year 2047, marking 100 years of India’s independence.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Ministry of Finance:

  • Current Finance Secretary: Dr. T. V. Somanathan
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Functions: Responsible for managing the economic policy, government expenditure, and financial management of the country.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event ICoAS Foundation Day 2024
Theme ICoAS @ Viksit Bharat
Date of Celebration August 9, 2024
Location New Delhi, India
Chief Guest Dr. T. V. Somanathan, Finance Secretary
Significance Emphasizing the role of ICoAS in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047
Key Activities Release of e-Book, technical sessions on cost accounting and digital currency

5. What is the primary objective of World Lion Day, celebrated annually on August 10th?
A) To celebrate the cultural significance of lions in mythology
B) To raise awareness about the conservation issues facing lions
C) To promote lion-based tourism
D) To commemorate the history of lion taming
E) To celebrate lions in popular culture
Answer: B) To raise awareness about the conservation issues facing lions

Event and Location:

  • Event: World Lion Day 2024
  • Location: Global observance

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: World Lion Day was established to raise awareness about the declining populations of lions and the threats they face in the wild. It aims to educate people about the importance of lion conservation and the ecological role of these big cats.
  • Objectives:
    • Conservation Awareness: Highlight the critical state of lion populations globally, with a focus on both African lions (Panthera leo leo) and Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica).
    • Promote Action: Encourage global efforts to protect lions through conservation initiatives, habitat protection, and anti-poaching measures.
    • Public Engagement: Engage individuals, organizations, and governments in activities and campaigns to support lion conservation.

Important Terms Explained:

  • IUCN Red List: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List categorizes species based on their risk of extinction. Lions are classified as “Vulnerable” (African lions) and “Endangered” (Asiatic lions).
  • Big Cat Rescue: A wildlife sanctuary in Florida, USA, that initiated World Lion Day to raise awareness about the plight of big cats.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Asiatic Lions:

  • Location: Primarily found in Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat, India
  • Population: 674 (as per 2020 Lion Census)

African Lions:

  • Location: Sub-Saharan Africa
  • IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event World Lion Day 2024
Date August 10th
Significance Raising awareness about lion conservation issues
Initiators Big Cat Rescue, co-founded by Dereck and Beverly Joubert
Global Lion Population Approximately 20,000 (IUCN)
Asiatic Lion Population 674 (2020 Lion Census)
Threats to Lions Habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, climate change
Conservation Efforts International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA), Project Lion in India

Sports – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

6. Who will be the flag-bearers for India at the Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony?
A) Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker
B) Bajrang Punia and PR Sreejesh
C) PR Sreejesh and PV Sindhu
D) PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker
E) Neeraj Chopra and Bajrang Punia
Answer: D) PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker

Event and Location:

  • Event: Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony
  • Location: Paris, France

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: PR Sreejesh, the retiring hockey legend, and Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medallist shooter, have been chosen as India’s flag-bearers for the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
  • Objectives:
    • Honor PR Sreejesh: Recognize his significant contributions to Indian hockey over an 18-year career, including his participation in four Olympic Games.
    • Highlight Manu Bhaker’s Achievements: Acknowledge her accomplishments as a double Olympic medallist at the Paris 2024 Games, making her one of India’s top-performing athletes.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Flag-Bearer: The athlete who carries their nation’s flag during the opening or closing ceremony of the Olympics, symbolizing their country’s pride and achievements in the games.
  • Indian Olympic Association (IOA): The organization responsible for selecting athletes to represent India at the Olympics and managing their participation.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

PR Sreejesh:

  • Sport: Field Hockey (Goalkeeper)
  • Age: 36
  • Olympic Appearances: Four editions (including Paris 2024)
  • Recent Achievement: Bronze medal in men’s hockey at Paris 2024

Manu Bhaker:

  • Sport: Shooting (Pistol)
  • Age: 23
  • Olympic Achievements: Two medals at Paris 2024

Paris 2024 Olympics:

  • Host City: Paris, France
  • Dates: July 26 – August 11, 2024

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony
Date August 11, 2024
India’s Flag-Bearers PR Sreejesh (Hockey), Manu Bhaker (Shooting)
Sreejesh’s Retirement Retired after winning bronze at Paris 2024
Significance of Choice Honors Sreejesh’s 18-year career and Bhaker’s Olympic success
Previous Flag-Bearer (Tokyo 2020) Bajrang Punia

7. Which team did India defeat to win the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League title for the second time?
A) Iran
B) Sri Lanka
C) Bangladesh
D) Nepal
E) Pakistan
Answer: D) Nepal

Event and Location:

  • Event: India wins the title in the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League for the second time.
  • Location: Kathmandu, Nepal.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: India competed in the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League and won the championship for the second time.
  • Objectives:
    • Secure the title by defeating the host team Nepal in the final.
    • Overcome previous defeat to Nepal in the league stage and emerge victorious in the finals.
    • Demonstrate strong performance in a competitive final match, securing a close 3-2 win.
    • Achieve a significant sporting milestone by winning the gold medal.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League: A volleyball tournament organized by the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) featuring national teams from the region.
  • Dashrath Stadium: The venue in Kathmandu, Nepal, where the final match was held.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Nepal:

  • Capital: Kathmandu
  • Currency: Nepalese Rupee
  • President: Ram Chandra Poudel
  • Prime Minister: Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda)

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event India wins CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League
Location Kathmandu, Nepal
Date of Final Match August 2024
Final Match Outcome India defeated Nepal 3-2
Significance India wins the title for the second time

8. At which event did Aman Sehrawat win a bronze medal in wrestling?
A) World Wrestling Championships
B) Commonwealth Games
C) Asian Games
D) Paris Olympics
E) South Asian Games
Answer: D) Paris Olympics

Event and Location:

  • Event: Aman Sehrawat won a bronze medal in the men’s freestyle 57kg wrestling event.
  • Location: Paris Olympics, held at Champ-de-Mars Arena.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: Aman Sehrawat’s journey to becoming an Olympic medallist in wrestling.
  • Objectives:
    • Overcoming Adversity: Orphaned at 11, Aman Sehrawat’s life was marked by hardship, but he found purpose and direction through wrestling at the Chhatrasal Academy.
    • Olympic Achievement: Despite challenges, Sehrawat achieved success at the highest level by winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics.
    • Future Aspirations: Sehrawat aims to build on this achievement, with hopes of winning more medals in future Olympic Games, including Los Angeles.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Chhatrasal Academy: A renowned wrestling school in North Delhi, India, known for producing world and Olympic wrestling champions like Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, Bajrang Punia, and Ravi Dahiya.
  • Akhara: A traditional training ground for wrestlers in India, where they practice grappling and other wrestling techniques.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Paris Olympics 2024:

  • Host City: Paris, France
  • Date: July 26 – August 11, 2024
  • Significance: The 2024 Summer Olympics, where athletes from around the world compete in various sports.

India:

  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
  • Prime Minister: Narendra Modi

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Aman Sehrawat wins bronze in wrestling at the Paris Olympics
Weight Class Men’s freestyle 57kg
Achievement Aman Sehrawat becomes an Olympic medallist at 21
Training Ground Chhatrasal Academy, North Delhi
Background Orphaned at 11, found purpose in wrestling
Significance Continues India’s tradition of Olympic medals in wrestling

Obituary – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

9. For what contribution did Tsung-Dao Lee win the Nobel Prize in Physics at the age of 30?
A) Discovery of the Higgs boson
B) Development of quantum electrodynamics
C) Work on broken symmetry in particle physics
D) Invention of the transistor
E) Research on superconductivity
Answer: C) Work on broken symmetry in particle physics

Event and Location:

  • Event: Obituary of Tsung-Dao Lee, a boundary-breaking physicist and Nobel Prize winner.
  • Location: Global recognition, with significant contributions in the United States and China.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: Tsung-Dao Lee, along with Chen Ning Yang, challenged and overturned the idea that parity is conserved in all physical interactions, a fundamental concept in physics.
  • Objectives:
    • Investigate the problem of parity conservation in weak interactions, particularly in particle decays.
    • Collaborate with experimenter Chien-Shiung Wu to test the hypothesis that parity might not be conserved in weak interactions.
    • Their findings led to the revolutionary discovery that parity is indeed violated in weak interactions, earning them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Broken Symmetry (Parity Violation): The concept that certain physical processes do not behave the same way as their mirror images, specifically in weak interactions. This was a groundbreaking discovery in particle physics.
  • Weak Interaction: One of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for processes like beta decay in nuclear physics.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Nobel Prize in Physics:

  • Awarded Year: 1957
  • Recipients: Tsung-Dao Lee and Chen Ning Yang
  • Achievement: For their work on the violation of parity in weak interactions.

Columbia University:

  • Location: New York City, USA
  • Founded: 1754
  • Current President: Minouche Shafik

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Obituary of Tsung-Dao Lee
Date of Nobel Prize 1957
Notable Achievement Work on broken symmetry in particle physics
Collaborator Chen Ning Yang
Experimental Confirmation Chien-Shiung Wu’s experiment on β-decay
Impact on Physics Shattered the concept of parity conservation
Legacy Significant contributions to various fields of physics and promotion of US-China scientific relations

10. What position did H. Devaraj hold from 2013 to 2016?
A) Vice-Chancellor of the University of Madras
B) Chairman of the Indian Institute of Science
C) Vice-Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC)
D) Director of Penn State University
E) Dean of the Department of Zoology, University of Madras
Answer: C) Vice-Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC)

Event and Location:

  • Event: The passing of H. Devaraj, former Vice-Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC).
  • Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: H. Devaraj served as the Vice-Chairman of the UGC from 2013 to 2016, where he played a significant role in shaping higher education policies across India.
  • Objectives:
    • Academic Leadership: During his tenure, Devaraj contributed to the development of higher education standards and policies.
    • Scientific Contribution: He was an accomplished scientist with expertise in biochemistry, plant biotechnology, and glycobiology.
    • Mentorship: Even after his tenure as Vice-Chairman, Devaraj continued to mentor students and contribute to scientific research as a UGC-BSR Faculty Fellow at the University of Madras.

Important Terms Explained:

  • University Grants Commission (UGC): A statutory body in India responsible for coordinating, determining, and maintaining standards of higher education.
  • Post-Doctoral Research: Advanced research work typically pursued after the completion of a doctoral degree (Ph.D.), often in specialized fields.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

University Grants Commission (UGC):

  • Founded: 1956
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Current Chairman: Prof. Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar
  • Role: Regulates higher education and maintains standards across universities in India.

University of Madras:

  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Founded: 1857
  • Type: Public State University

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Passing of H. Devaraj, former UGC Vice-Chairman
Date of Death August 6, 2024
Position Held Vice-Chairman of the UGC (2013-2016)
Educational Background B.Sc in Chemistry, M.Sc, and PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Madras
Post-Doctoral Research Plant Biotechnology (IISc, Bengaluru), Glycobiology (Penn State University)
Significant Contribution Shaping higher education policies in India
Final Role UGC-BSR Faculty Fellow, Department of Zoology, University of Madras

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

11. What recent change has the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) implemented regarding the reporting frequency of banks to Credit Information Companies (CICs)?
A) From once a year to once a month
B) From once a quarter to once a month
C) From once a month to once a week
D) From once a month to once a fortnight
E) From once a week to once a day
Answer: D) From once a month to once a fortnight

Event and Location:

  • Event: RBI shortens the reporting frequency by banks to Credit Information Companies (CICs).
  • Location: Mumbai, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: Banks are now required to report to Credit Information Companies (CICs) every fortnight, instead of the previous monthly reporting.
  • Objectives:
    • Improve the timeliness and accuracy of credit information available to lenders.
    • Ensure more recent information is reflected in credit information reports.
    • Benefit borrowers by ensuring faster updates of information, particularly when loans are repaid.
    • Enable lenders to make better risk assessments and reduce the risk of over-leveraging by borrowers.
    • Promote a healthy credit culture through increased transparency.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Credit Information Companies (CICs): Organizations that collect and maintain individual and business credit information, which they provide to lenders for assessing creditworthiness.
  • CIBIL Score: A credit score generated by TransUnion CIBIL, one of the major credit bureaus in India, reflecting an individual’s creditworthiness.
  • RBI: The Reserve Bank of India is the central banking institution responsible for regulating the monetary policy of the Indian rupee and overseeing the financial sector.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

  • Founded Year: 1935
  • Governor: Shaktikanta Das
  • Headquarters: Mumbai, India

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event RBI shortens reporting frequency to CICs
Location Mumbai, India
Date of Announcement August 2024
New Reporting Frequency Fortnightly (every two weeks)
Significance Faster updates of credit information and better risk assessment by lenders

12. Which company has partnered with Axis Bank to launch the UPI-focused payments platform “UPISetu”?
A) Paytm
B) PhonePe
C) Pine Labs
D) Razorpay
E) Google Pay
Answer: C) Pine Labs

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of UPISetu, a UPI-focused payments platform.
  • Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: Setu, a Pine Labs company, in collaboration with Axis Bank, launched UPISetu, a payments platform specifically designed for businesses and developers to leverage UPI’s growing popularity.
  • Objectives:
    • Promote UPI as the Preferred Payment Mode: Given UPI’s rapid adoption in India, UPISetu aims to provide businesses with a unified platform to cater to this increasing demand.
    • Facilitate Credit on UPI: As UPI continues to integrate with credit cards, wallets, and credit lines, UPISetu will support this evolving payment landscape.
    • Enhance Payment Success Rates: By leveraging UPI’s capabilities, UPISetu seeks to improve transaction success rates and deliver faster, more reliable payment solutions to the market.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Unified Payments Interface (UPI): A real-time payment system developed by NPCI that enables instant money transfers between bank accounts through mobile devices.
  • Setu: A fintech company focused on building API infrastructure for digital payments, now owned by Pine Labs.
  • NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India): The organization responsible for managing UPI and other digital payment systems in India.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Pine Labs:

  • Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
  • CEO: B Amrish Rau
  • Founded: 1998

Axis Bank:

  • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  • MD & CEO: Amitabh Chaudhry
  • Founded: 1993
  • Tagline: Badhti Ka Naam Zindagi

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Launch of UPISetu
Launch Date August 2024
Collaborating Companies Setu (Pine Labs) and Axis Bank
Platform Focus UPI-focused payments for businesses and developers
UPI Growth Statistics 137% growth in UPI transactions over the last 2 years
Significance Strengthening India’s digital payments ecosystem

13. What new system will the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduce to reduce the cheque clearance cycle from days to hours?
A) Digital Cheque Exchange System
B) Cheque Real-Time Settlement
C) Continuous Clearing with ‘On-Realisation-Settlement’
D) Instant Payment Gateway
E) Fast-Track Cheque Processing
Answer: C) Continuous Clearing with ‘On-Realisation-Settlement’

Event and Location:

  • Event: RBI Monetary Policy announcement on reducing the cheque clearance cycle.
  • Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The RBI Governor, Shaktikanta Das, announced that the cheque clearance cycle would be reduced from days to hours by introducing a new continuous clearing system with ‘on-realisation-settlement.’
  • Objectives:
    • Faster Cheque Clearance: Transition from the current two-business-day clearance cycle to a system that allows cheques to be cleared within a few hours on the same day of presentation.
    • Enhanced Efficiency: The continuous clearing process will streamline cheque processing and speed up financial transactions, benefiting both payers and payees.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Cheque Truncation System (CTS): An electronic process of clearing cheques where the physical cheque is not moved from one bank to another. Instead, an electronic image of the cheque, along with key information, is transmitted for processing.
  • On-Realisation-Settlement: A process in the continuous clearing system where the settlement of funds occurs immediately upon the realisation of the cheque, reducing the time taken for cheque clearance.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

  • Founded: April 1, 1935
  • Headquarters: Mumbai, India
  • Current Governor: Shaktikanta Das
  • Key Functions: Regulates the issuance and supply of the Indian rupee, manages the country’s main payment systems, and works to promote economic stability.

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC):

  • Function: Determines the benchmark interest rates to maintain inflation within the target level and support economic growth.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Announcement of reduced cheque clearance cycle
Announcement Date RBI Monetary Policy statement on August 2024
New Clearing System Continuous Clearing with ‘On-Realisation-Settlement’
Current Clearing Cycle Up to two business days
New Clearing Cycle A few hours on the day of presentation
Objective Faster cheque clearance and efficient payment processing
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das

14. What is the primary objective of introducing the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives as per the recent agreement between India and Maldives?
A) To enhance bilateral trade between India and Maldives
B) To promote tourism and improve financial inclusion in the Maldives
C) To facilitate cross-border remittances between India and Maldives
D) To replace the existing payment systems in the Maldives
E) To provide financial aid to Maldivian businesses
Answer: B) To promote tourism and improve financial inclusion in the Maldives

Event and Location:

  • Event: Introduction of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives.
  • Location: Maldives, during the official visit of Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: India and the Maldives signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives.
  • Objectives:
    • Tourism Promotion: The introduction of UPI is expected to have a positive impact on the Maldivian tourism sector, providing tourists with a convenient and efficient payment system.
    • Financial Inclusion: UPI will help improve financial inclusion in the Maldives by making digital payments accessible and widespread.
    • Economic Cooperation: The agreement strengthens the economic ties between India and the Maldives, promoting further collaboration in various sectors.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Unified Payments Interface (UPI): A real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) that facilitates inter-bank transactions through mobile phones.
  • National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI): An umbrella organization for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India, responsible for the development and management of UPI.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Maldives:

  • Capital: Malé
  • Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
  • President: Mohamed Muizzu
  • Significance: A key tourist destination with tourism contributing significantly to its GDP.

India:

  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
  • External Affairs Minister: S Jaishankar

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Introduction of UPI in the Maldives
Objective Promote tourism and improve financial inclusion
Agreement Signed During S Jaishankar’s visit to the Maldives
Key Organizations Involved National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Maldives
Significance Strengthens India-Maldives economic ties, enhances digital payment infrastructure in the Maldives
Impact on Maldives Positive impact on tourism, easier digital transactions for visitors and locals

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

15. Who was appointed as the new Prime Minister of Tunisia in the latest political shakeup ahead of the October presidential election?
A) Ahmed Hachani
B) Kamel Maddouri
C) Kais Saied
D) Hichem Mechichi
E) Nabil Karoui
Answer: B) Kamel Maddouri

Event and Location:

  • Event: Tunisia’s President replaces the Prime Minister ahead of the October presidential election.
  • Location: Tunis, Tunisia.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: President Kais Saied dismissed Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani and appointed Kamel Maddouri, the former social affairs minister, as the new Prime Minister.
  • Objectives:
    • Prepare for the upcoming presidential election on October 6, 2024.
    • Address the ongoing economic and social challenges facing Tunisia, including inflation and unemployment.
    • Stabilize the political environment in Tunisia ahead of the election.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Prime Minister: The head of government in Tunisia, responsible for overseeing the Cabinet and implementing government policies.
  • Kais Saied: The President of Tunisia, who has been in office since 2019 and is seeking re-election in October 2024.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Tunisia:

  • Capital: Tunis
  • Currency: Tunisian Dinar
  • President: Kais Saied
  • New Prime Minister: Kamel Maddouri

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Tunisia’s president replaces Prime Minister
Location Tunis, Tunisia
Date of Announcement August 2024
New Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri
Reason for Shakeup Unspecified, ahead of the October 2024 presidential election
Significance Political stability and preparation for upcoming elections

16. Who is set to become the first female CEO of DBS Bank, succeeding Piyush Gupta?
A) Helen Wong
B) Tan Su Shan
C) Peter Seah
D) Chng Lay Chew
E) Prasanna Tan
Answer: B) Tan Su Shan

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of Tan Su Shan as the first female CEO of DBS Bank.
  • Location: Singapore.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: Tan Su Shan, the current head of institutional banking at DBS, will succeed Piyush Gupta as CEO upon his retirement in March 2025.
  • Objectives:
    • Leadership Transition: Ensure a smooth transition in leadership, with Tan serving as Deputy CEO until Gupta’s retirement.
    • Continue Legacy: Build on Gupta’s achievements, including his efforts in reshaping DBS’s culture and advancing its technological capabilities.
    • Maintain Growth: Sustain the bank’s strong financial performance and continue driving innovation in the face of digital banking competition.

Important Terms Explained:

  • DBS Bank: One of the largest and most prominent banks in Singapore and Southeast Asia, known for its innovation in digital banking and wealth management.
  • Institutional Banking: A division of a bank that provides services to large organizations, including corporations, governments, and other financial institutions.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

DBS Bank:

  • Headquarters: Singapore
  • Founded: 1968
  • Current CEO: Piyush Gupta (until March 2025)
  • Incoming CEO: Tan Su Shan (from March 2025)
  • Chairman: Peter Seah
  • Tagline: “Live more, Bank less.”

Singapore:

  • Capital: Singapore
  • Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
  • Prime Minister: Lee Hsien Loong
  • President: Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Appointment of Tan Su Shan as the first female CEO of DBS Bank
Announcement Date August 2024
Current CEO Piyush Gupta (retiring in March 2025)
New CEO Tan Su Shan
Tan’s Role Before CEO Head of Institutional Banking at DBS
DBS Share Performance under Gupta Four-fold increase since November 2009
Significance First female CEO of DBS and second female leader of a major Singaporean bank

17. Who was recently appointed as a new member of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC)?
A) Piyush Goyal
B) Rajiv Kumar
C) Harish Dudani
D) Sanjeev Mohan
E) Rakesh Singh
Answer: C) Harish Dudani

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of Harish Dudani as a new member of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).
  • Location: New Delhi, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) is responsible for regulating the electricity industry in India. This includes setting tariffs for generating companies under the central government and those operating across multiple states, as well as overseeing inter-state electricity transmission and issuing related licenses.
  • Objectives:
    • Judicial Expertise: Harish Dudani’s judicial background is expected to enhance the commission’s ability to adjudicate disputes, promote competition, and ensure efficiency in the energy sector.
    • Regulation and Policy Shaping: Dudani will play a key role in shaping policies and decisions that impact the electricity industry across India.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC): A statutory body in India established under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998, and later governed by the Electricity Act, 2003. It is responsible for regulating tariffs, overseeing inter-state transmission, and promoting competition in the electricity industry.
  • Electricity Act, 2003: A comprehensive law that consolidates the legal framework for the generation, distribution, transmission, and trading of electricity in India.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

CERC (Central Electricity Regulatory Commission):

  • Founded: 1998 (under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act)
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Chairperson: Jishnu Barua
  • Functions: Regulates tariffs, adjudicates disputes, issues licenses, promotes competition in the electricity sector

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Appointment of Harish Dudani as a member of CERC
Appointment Date August 6, 2024
Governing Law Electricity Act, 2003
Previous Roles Principal Judge, Family Court; District Judge, Commercial Court; Additional Session Judge, Special Judge for CBI cases
Significance Enhances CERC’s judicial expertise for better regulation and policy-making in the energy sector

18. Who has been appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary of India, succeeding Rajiv Gauba?
A) Ajay Kumar Bhalla
B) Rajiv Gauba
C) T V Somanathan
D) S Jaishankar
E) Rajiv Kumar
Answer: C) T V Somanathan

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of T V Somanathan as the new Cabinet Secretary of India.
  • Location: New Delhi, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: T V Somanathan, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has been appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary, succeeding Rajiv Gauba who completes his five-year tenure.
  • Objectives:
    • Leadership Transition: Somanathan will take over from Gauba on August 30, 2024, after serving as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Cabinet Secretariat.
    • Administrative Oversight: As the Cabinet Secretary, Somanathan will be responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the government and coordinating between different ministries.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Cabinet Secretary: The highest-ranking civil servant in the Indian government, responsible for coordinating the work of various ministries and ensuring the implementation of government policies.
  • IAS (Indian Administrative Service): A premier civil service in India responsible for the administration of various government functions at the central and state levels.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

T V Somanathan:

  • Batch and Cadre: 1987, Tamil Nadu cadre
  • Previous Roles: Finance Secretary of India, Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, Expenditure Secretary
  • Education: Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), PhD in Economics from Calcutta University

Rajiv Gauba:

  • Batch and Cadre: 1982, Jharkhand cadre
  • Previous Roles: Union Home Secretary, Architect of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Appointment of T V Somanathan as Cabinet Secretary
Date of Appointment August 30, 2024
Previous Position Held Finance Secretary of India
Predecessor Rajiv Gauba
Tenure Two years
Key Responsibilities Coordination of government ministries, policy implementation
Background IAS officer (1987 batch, Tamil Nadu cadre), CA, CS, PhD in Economics

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

19. What is the name of the satellite that ISRO is set to launch on Independence Day, August 15, 2024?
A) EOS-06
B) GSAT-31
C) EOS-08
D) RISAT-2BR2
E) Cartosat-3
Answer: C) EOS-08

Event and Location:

  • Event: ISRO’s launch of the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-08).
  • Location: Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: ISRO will launch the EOS-08 satellite using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3).
  • Objectives:
    • Design and Development of EOS-08: A micro-satellite weighing approximately 175.5 kg for Earth observation purposes.
    • Advanced Payload Instruments: Integration of Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R), and SiC UV Dosimeter for various applications like disaster monitoring and environmental observation.
    • Technological Advancements: Test new satellite technologies, such as miniaturized antenna systems and integrated avionics, to enhance future operational satellites.
    • Orbital Configuration: The satellite will be placed in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at 475 km altitude with a 37.4-degree inclination.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Earth Observation Satellite (EOS): Satellites used for monitoring and collecting data about the Earth’s physical, chemical, and biological systems.
  • Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): A launch vehicle developed by ISRO to deploy small satellites into low Earth orbit.
  • NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL): A public sector entity under ISRO responsible for satellite launch services and commercializing space activities.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation):

  • Founded: 1969
  • Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  • Chairman: S. Somanath
  • Key Mission: Develop and deploy space technology for national development and scientific exploration.

India:

  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Currency: Indian Rupee
  • Prime Minister: Narendra Modi

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Launch of Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08
Launch Date and Time August 15, 2024, at 09:17 IST
Location Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India
Launch Vehicle Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3)
Satellite Details EOS-08, a micro-satellite weighing 175.5 kg
Orbital Configuration Circular Low Earth Orbit at 475 km altitude
Mission Objectives Earth observation, disaster monitoring, and technological advancements
Significance Marks ISRO’s continued innovation in satellite technology and space exploration

20. What technology has IIT Indore developed to enable live location tracking through shoes?
A) Solar-Powered Shoes
B) Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) Shoe Soles
C) Wireless Charging Shoes
D) Bluetooth-Enabled Shoes
E) RFID-Tagged Shoes
Answer: B) Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) Shoe Soles

Event and Location:

  • Event: Development of e-shoes by IIT Indore for live location tracking.
  • Location: IIT Indore, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore, in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), developed Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG)-based shoe sole energy harvesting units.
  • Objectives:
    • Live Location Tracking: The e-shoes are equipped with a satellite-based GPS module that provides precise live location tracking, particularly useful for tracking jawans (soldiers) in real-time.
    • Energy Harvesting: The shoes harness energy from human motion to power electronic devices, making them self-sustaining.
    • Athletic Performance: These shoes can also aid in improving the performance of athletes by tracking their movements accurately.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG): A technology that converts mechanical energy, such as the motion of walking, into electrical energy. It is used in the shoe soles to power electronic components like GPS modules.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

IIT Indore:

  • Established: 2009
  • Location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
  • Significance: Part of India’s premier institutions for higher education and research.

DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation):

  • Founded: 1958
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Role: Responsible for the development of technology for the Indian armed forces.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Development of TENG-based e-shoes for live location tracking
Developed By IIT Indore in collaboration with DRDO
Technology Used Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) for energy harvesting
Primary Applications Live location tracking of jawans, enhancing athlete performance
Power Source Energy harvested from human motion
Delivered Units 10 pairs of e-shoes delivered to DRDO
Significance Enhances real-time tracking capabilities and supports self-sustaining electronic devices

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

21. Which organization collaborated with the West Bengal government to engage fathers in promoting breastfeeding?
A) WHO
B) UNICEF
C) World Bank
D) UNDP
E) FAO
Answer: B) UNICEF

Event and Location:

  • Event: Collaboration between the West Bengal government and UNICEF to engage fathers in promoting breastfeeding.
  • Location: West Bengal, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The initiative aims to increase family support for breastfeeding by involving fathers and other family members, thereby enhancing the rate of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a child’s life.
  • Objectives:
    • Encourage fathers to play an active role in supporting breastfeeding from the time of conception.
    • Increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding, currently recommended for 53% of mothers in the first six months.
    • Promote the benefits of colostrum feeding, especially within the first hour of birth.
    • Highlight the nutritional value of breast milk, which serves as the “first vaccine” for babies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Exclusive Breastfeeding: Refers to feeding the baby only breast milk, with no other liquids or solids, for the first six months of life.
  • Colostrum Feeding: The practice of feeding the first milk (colostrum), which is rich in antibodies and nutrients, to newborns within the first hour of birth.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

UNICEF:

  • Full Form: United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund
  • Founded: 1946
  • Headquarters: New York City, USA
  • Executive Director: Catherine M. Russell

West Bengal:

  • Capital: Kolkata
  • Chief Minister: Mamata Banerjee
  • Governor: C. V. Ananda Bose

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Collaboration between West Bengal government and UNICEF to promote breastfeeding
Location West Bengal, India
Collaborating Organizations West Bengal Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department, UNICEF
Key Focus Engaging fathers in breastfeeding advocacy
Health Initiative Increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding and promote colostrum feeding
Significance Enhances family support for breastfeeding, improving child health outcomes

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 10 & 11

22. What is the primary purpose of the Kavach 4.0 system being fast-tracked by Indian Railways?
A) Enhancing passenger comfort
B) Reducing travel time between cities
C) Improving train safety by preventing collisions
D) Increasing train speeds
E) Expanding railway connectivity
Answer: C) Improving train safety by preventing collisions

Event and Location:

  • Event: Fast-tracking of Kavach 4.0 rollout by Indian Railways.
  • Location: Nationwide across India’s railway network.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Union Ministry of Railways plans to issue tenders for installing the Kavach 4.0 anti-collision system in 20,000 locomotives by the end of 2024.
  • Objectives:
    • Enhance Train Safety: By equipping locomotives and railway tracks with Kavach 4.0, the system aims to prevent train collisions and improve overall railway safety.
    • Upgrade Existing Infrastructure: The current network, operating on earlier versions of Kavach, will be upgraded to Kavach 4.0.
    • Expand Coverage: Install Kavach 4.0 on an additional 3,000 route kilometers and 8,000 railway stations.
    • Improve Communication: Establish a parallel system for seamless communication between trains and stations.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Kavach 4.0: An advanced version of the indigenous anti-collision system developed by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) under Indian Railways. It ensures safe train operations by automatically applying brakes if needed and improving communication across the railway network.
  • National Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System: A system adopted by Indian Railways to ensure the safety and protection of train operations across the country.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Indian Railways:

  • Founded: April 16, 1853
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, India
  • Current Railway Minister: Ashwini Vaishnaw

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Fast-tracking of Kavach 4.0 rollout by Indian Railways
Target Install Kavach 4.0 on 20,000 locomotives and 3,000 route kilometers
Tenders Issuance Two tenders, each for 10,000 locomotives, by October 2024
Significance Enhanced train safety and prevention of collisions
Motivation Accidents like the Kanchenjunga train accident emphasize the need for broader Kavach implementation
Approved OEMs HBL Power Systems, Kernex, Medha
System Developer Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) under Indian Railways

23. What is the primary function of the newly launched ‘rice ATM’ in Odisha?
A) Dispense money for purchasing rice
B) Provide financial aid to farmers
C) Dispense rice to ration cardholders
D) Monitor agricultural produce prices
E) Facilitate online grain trading
Answer: C) Dispense rice to ration cardholders

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of India’s first ‘rice ATM’ by the Odisha government.
  • Location: Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The rice ATM, officially known as the Annapurti Grain ATM, was introduced to modernize and improve the efficiency of the Public Distribution System (PDS) for ration cardholders.
  • Objectives:
    • Efficient Grain Dispensing: The machine can dispense up to 50 kg of grain within five minutes, ensuring quick and accurate distribution.
    • Reduce Fraud: By utilizing biometric verification and accurate weighing, the rice ATM minimizes the risk of theft, black marketing, and cheating.
    • 24/7 Accessibility: The ATM provides round-the-clock access to grains, reducing waiting times and increasing convenience for beneficiaries.
    • Expansion Plans: Initially launched in Bhubaneswar, the rice ATM will be expanded across all 30 districts in Odisha and potentially to other states under the One Nation One Ration Card scheme.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Public Distribution System (PDS): A government program in India that provides subsidized food grains to eligible households.
  • One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC): A scheme that allows PDS beneficiaries to access their food grains from any part of the country.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Odisha:

  • Capital: Bhubaneswar
  • Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik
  • Governor: Ganeshi Lal

World Food Programme (WFP):

  • Founded: 1961
  • Headquarters: Rome, Italy
  • Executive Director: Cindy McCain
  • Function: Provides food assistance and works to combat hunger globally.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Launch of India’s first ‘rice ATM’
Location Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Name of the Machine Annapurti Grain ATM
Function Dispenses rice to ration cardholders
Capacity Dispenses up to 50 kg of grain in 5 minutes
Verification Method Biometric verification (fingerprint or iris scan)
Expansion Plan To be introduced in all 30 districts of Odisha and potentially other states
Significance Modernizes PDS, reduces fraud, and improves accessibility

24. What is the name of the newly approved tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh aimed at combating the decline in tiger population?
A) Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
B) Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve
C) Kanha Tiger Reserve
D) Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
E) Manas Tiger Reserve
Answer: D) Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

Event and Location:

  • Event: Approval of a new tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh to combat declining tiger populations.
  • Location: Chhattisgarh, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve has been approved to address the significant decline in Chhattisgarh’s tiger population, which has dropped from 46 in 2014 to 17 in 2022.
  • Objectives:
    • Tiger Conservation: Strengthen efforts to protect and increase the tiger population by creating a large, contiguous habitat spanning 2,829 sq km across four northern districts.
    • Eco-Tourism: Promote eco-tourism as a means of providing economic opportunities to local communities, including roles as guides, tourist vehicle operators, and resort managers.
    • Economic Benefits: Support the local economy by involving villagers in the core and buffer zones of the reserve in conservation-related activities.

Important Terms Explained:

  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): A statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, India, responsible for tiger conservation.
  • Core and Buffer Zones: The core zone is the protected area where human activities are strictly regulated, while the buffer zone allows for limited human activity that supports conservation efforts.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Chhattisgarh:

  • Capital: Raipur
  • Chief Minister: Bhupesh Baghel
  • Governor: Biswabhusan Harichandan

India’s Largest Tiger Reserve:

  • Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve
  • Location: Andhra Pradesh
  • Area: 3,296.31 sq km

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Approval of Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
Location Chhattisgarh, India
Area Covered 2,829 sq km
Districts Involved Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Koriya, Surajpur, and Balrampur
Tiger Population Decline From 46 in 2014 to 17 in 2022
Primary Objectives Tiger conservation, eco-tourism promotion, and economic development for local communities
India’s Largest Tiger Reserve Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (3,296.31 sq km)

25. What is the primary objective of the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project recently approved by the Maharashtra government?
A) To generate hydroelectric power
B) To address urban water shortages
C) To improve irrigation and provide drought relief
D) To support tourism development
E) To enhance flood management
Answer: C) To improve irrigation and provide drought relief

Event and Location:

  • Event: Approval of the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project.
  • Location: Maharashtra, India, specifically targeting the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Maharashtra government approved the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project to address the ongoing drought situation in the Marathwada region.
  • Objectives:
    • Irrigation: The project aims to irrigate around four lakh hectares of land, providing much-needed water for agricultural activities in drought-prone areas.
    • Water Transfer: Water will be transferred from the Godavari River to the Wainganga Project in Buldhana district to be used for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes.
    • Drought Relief: The project is expected to offer significant relief to drought-affected farmers, improving agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.

Important Terms Explained:

  • River Linking Project: A large-scale infrastructure initiative designed to connect rivers to redistribute water resources, typically to address regional water shortages and improve water management.
  • Godavari River: One of the major rivers in India, often referred to as the Dakshin Ganga or Ganges of the South.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Maharashtra:

  • Capital: Mumbai
  • Chief Minister: Eknath Shinde
  • Governor: Ramesh Bais
  • Marathwada Region: A drought-prone region in Maharashtra that frequently faces water scarcity issues.

Vidarbha Region:

  • Location: Eastern Maharashtra
  • Significance: Known for agricultural activities, particularly cotton farming, and often affected by droughts.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Project Name Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project
Objective Improve irrigation and provide drought relief
Target Area Marathwada and Vidarbha regions in Maharashtra
Land to be Irrigated Around four lakh hectares
Water Source Godavari River to Wainganga Project, Buldhana district
Usage Irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes
Significance Provides significant relief to drought-affected farmers

26. What is the primary objective of the recently approved Logistics Policy 2024 by the Maharashtra government?
A) To enhance tourism infrastructure
B) To generate employment and develop logistics infrastructure
C) To promote agricultural exports
D) To develop educational institutions
E) To increase the production of renewable energy
Answer: B) To generate employment and develop logistics infrastructure

Event and Location:

  • Event: Approval of the Maharashtra Logistics Policy 2024.
  • Location: Maharashtra, India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandate: The Maharashtra government approved the Logistics Policy 2024 with the goal of generating around 500,000 new job opportunities through the development of logistics infrastructure.
  • Objectives:
    • Infrastructure Development: The policy aims to establish over 200 logistics parks, complexes, and truck terminals with integrated facilities across the state.
    • Job Creation: By developing more than 10,000 acres of dedicated logistics infrastructure, the policy is expected to create a significant number of tech-savvy jobs for local youth.
    • Advanced Technologies: The policy incentivizes the adoption of hi-tech logistics solutions, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, robotics, automation, IoT, digitization, drones, and fintech, which will contribute to the creation of technology-driven employment opportunities.
    • Regional and International Connectivity: The policy includes the development of 25 district logistic nodes, five regional logistic hubs, state, national, and international logistic hubs to improve connectivity and support economic growth.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Logistics Park: A dedicated area developed to provide integrated services related to transportation, warehousing, and distribution, facilitating the efficient movement of goods.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, particularly computer systems, which is increasingly being integrated into logistics to optimize operations.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Maharashtra:

  • Capital: Mumbai
  • Chief Minister: Eknath Shinde
  • Governor: Ramesh Bais
  • Industries Department: Headed by Principal Secretary Harshdeep Kamble, responsible for implementing industrial and logistics policies in the state.

Tabular Summary:

Key Details Information
Event Approval of Maharashtra Logistics Policy 2024
Objective Generate 500,000 job opportunities and develop logistics infrastructure
Key Infrastructure Developments 200+ logistics parks, complexes, and truck terminals
Technology Focus Adoption of AI, Blockchain, robotics, automation, IoT, digitization, drones, fintech
Target Areas 10,000+ acres for logistics, 25 district logistic nodes, regional, state, national, and international hubs
Significance Boosts employment and tech-savvy job creation in Maharashtra


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Nagasaki Day 2024 observed on August 9th, commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Japan.
  • International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024 focuses on protecting Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact.
  • World Steelpan Day on August 11th celebrates the cultural significance of the steelpan and its role in sustainable development.
  • ICoAS Foundation Day 2024 celebrated with the theme “ICoAS @ Viksit Bharat,” focusing on India’s development vision for 2047.
  • World Lion Day on August 10th highlights the urgent need for lion conservation and the protection of their habitats.

Sports 

  • PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker to be India’s flag-bearers at the Paris 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony.
  • India clinched the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League title, defeating Nepal 3-2 in the final.
  • Aman Sehrawat wins bronze in wrestling at the Paris Olympics, continuing India’s Olympic medal streak.

Obituary

  • Tsung-Dao Lee, Nobel laureate at 30, revolutionized physics with his work on parity violation.
  • H. Devaraj, former UGC Vice-Chairman, passed away at 71; remembered for his contributions to Indian higher education.

Banking and Finance 

  • RBI shortens bank reporting frequency to CICs to a fortnight for improved credit information.
  • Pine Labs partners with Axis Bank to launch UPISetu, a UPI-focused payments platform for businesses.
  • RBI introduces a new system to reduce cheque clearance from days to hours through continuous clearing with ‘on-realisation-settlement’.
  • India and Maldives sign an MoU to introduce UPI, aiming to boost tourism and financial inclusion in the archipelago nation.

Appointments

  • Tunisia’s President Kais Saied replaces Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani with Kamel Maddouri ahead of October elections.
  • Tan Su Shan to become the first female CEO of DBS Bank, succeeding Piyush Gupta in March 2025.
  • Harish Dudani appointed as a new member of CERC, bringing judicial expertise to the commission.
  • T V Somanathan appointed as India’s new Cabinet Secretary, succeeding Rajiv Gauba on August 30, 2024.

Science and Technology

  • ISRO to launch Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08 on Independence Day, August 15, 2024.
  • IIT Indore and DRDO develop TENG-based e-shoes for live location tracking, enhancing real-time monitoring for jawans and athletes.

International Affairs

  • West Bengal and UNICEF collaborate to engage fathers in promoting breastfeeding to improve child health outcomes.

National Affairs

  • Indian Railways fast-tracks Kavach 4.0 rollout to improve train safety, targeting 20,000 locomotives by 2024.
  • Odisha launches India’s first ‘rice ATM’ to dispense grains to ration cardholders, enhancing PDS efficiency.
  • Chhattisgarh approves the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, spanning 2,829 sq km, to combat declining tiger populations and promote eco-tourism.
  • Maharashtra approves the Wainganga-Nalganga river linking project to irrigate four lakh hectares, aiding drought-hit Marathwada.
  • Maharashtra’s Logistics Policy 2024 aims to generate 500,000 jobs by developing extensive logistics infrastructure and adopting advanced technologies.

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