Daily Current Affairs October 03

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 October 03. 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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October 03 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs October 03

1. On the 99th Raising Day of the Military Nursing Service (MNS), who laid the wreath at the National War Memorial?
A) General Manoj Pande
B) Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora
C) Gen Upendra Dwivedi
D) President Droupadi Murmu
E) General Anil Chauhan
Answer: B) Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora

Event and Location:

• Event: The Indian Military Nursing Service (IMNS) celebrated its 99th Raising Day on October 1, 2024.
• Location: Celebrations took place across various military installations, with key events in New Delhi, including a wreath-laying at the National War Memorial.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Honoring Nursing Services:
  • The day showcased professional excellence and camaraderie within the IMNS, which plays a critical role in ensuring the health and welfare of Indian soldiers, especially during conflicts and emergencies.
• Key Celebrations:
  • Wreath Laying: Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora, the Additional Director General of Military Nursing Services, led the wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial, alongside senior officers and veterans.
  • Cake-Cutting Ceremony: A ceremonial cake-cutting took place at the MNS Officers Mess at Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi.
• Commendation from COAS:
  • Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen Upendra Dwivedi, praised the MNS officers for their unwavering dedication to patient care, even in the most difficult conditions, and highlighted their role as a pillar of strength within the Armed Forces Medical Services.

Important Terms Explained:

• Military Nursing Service (MNS):
  • A specialized cadre established in 1926, dedicated to providing medical care to Indian soldiers and their families.
• National War Memorial:
  • A memorial in New Delhi that honors the sacrifice of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in service to the nation.

Static GK Information:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs October 03

2. What is the interest rate on the Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme for the quarter starting October 1, 2024?
A) 7.1%
B) 7.7%
C) 8.2%
D) 7.4%
E) 4.0%
Answer: C) 8.2%

Event and Location:

• Event: The government of India announced that interest rates on small savings schemes will remain unchanged for the third consecutive quarter of FY 2024-25, spanning from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
• Location: Nationwide, through a notification from the Ministry of Finance.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Stable Interest Rates for Q3 FY25:
  • The unchanged rates apply to popular savings instruments like Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (NSC), and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.
• Interest Rates for Popular Schemes:
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme: 8.2%
  • PPF (Public Provident Fund): 7.1%
  • Kisan Vikas Patra: 7.5% (Matures in 115 months)
  • NSC (National Savings Certificate): 7.7%
  • Monthly Income Scheme: 7.4%
  • Post Office Savings Account: 4%

Important Terms Explained:

• Small Savings Schemes:
  • Government-backed savings schemes operated through post offices and banks, providing attractive interest rates with minimal risk.
• Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme:
  • A government initiative to encourage parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage.
• Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP):
  • A long-term investment option where the invested amount doubles over a fixed period, with an interest rate of 7.5% for 115 months.

Static GK Information:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs October 03

3. What is the name of the third 25T Bollard Pull Tug launched in Kolkata on October 3, 2024?
A) Vajra
B) Ashva
C) Garuda
D) Tejas
E) Shakti
Answer: B) Ashva

Event and Location:

• Event: The third 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, named Ashva (Yard 337), was launched on October 3, 2024 at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata.
• Location: The tug was launched in Kolkata, West Bengal, by Cmde Ajay Yadav, NOIC (West Bengal).

Mandates and Objectives:

• Part of Make in India Initiative:
  • Ashva is a part of the “Make in India” and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives aimed at enhancing India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
• Contract for Six Tugs:
  • The construction of six 25T Bollard Pull Tugs was contracted to M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), under the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
• Operational Importance:
  • These tugs will assist the Indian Navy in berthing, un-berthing, and maneuvering ships and submarines in confined waters.
  • Additionally, they will provide afloat firefighting assistance and have the capacity to conduct Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.

Important Terms Explained:

• Bollard Pull Tug (25T):
  • A type of tugboat with a bollard pull of 25 tons, used for towing and assisting ships in confined waters.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat:
  • An initiative by the Government of India aimed at promoting self-reliance in various sectors, including defense manufacturing.

Static GK Information:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs October 03

4. Who is hosting the Group of Seven (G7) leaders’ call to discuss the Middle East crisis in October 2024?
A) France
B) Germany
C) Italy
D) United States
E) United Kingdom
Answer: C) Italy

Event and Location:

• Event: Italy is set to host a high-level G7 leaders’ call to address the escalating Middle East crisis.
• Location: The meeting will take place via teleconference, hosted by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Addressing Middle East Instability:
  • The primary objective of this G7 leaders’ call is to focus on the growing instability in the Middle East.
  • Discussions will include Iran’s missile attack on Israel on October 1, 2024, and the situation in Lebanon.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Italy aims to push for a diplomatic solution to de-escalate tensions, in its role as the chair of the G7.

Important Terms Explained:

• G7 (Group of Seven):
  • An economic and political group consisting of the world’s seven largest advanced economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US.
  • Italy is serving as the 2024 Chair of the G7.
• Iron Dome System:
  • Israel’s Iron Dome is an advanced anti-missile system that intercepts and destroys rockets and artillery shells.
• Iran’s Missile Attack:
  • On October 1, 2024, Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel, which were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome.

Static GK Information:

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5. Which organization under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare became an Affiliate Member of the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) in 2024?
A) Indian Council of Medical Research
B) National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority
C) Medical Council of India
D) Central Drugs Standard Control Organization
E) All India Institute of Medical Sciences
Answer: D) Central Drugs Standard Control Organization

Event and Location:

• Event: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare became an Affiliate Member of the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) in 2024.
• Location: Approval for membership was granted after discussions during the 26th Session of IMDRF held in Seattle, Washington, USA, in September 2024.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Regulatory System Strengthening:
  • This membership will help CDSCO strengthen its medical device regulatory system and enhance the regulatory framework to align with globally accepted standards.
• Global Collaboration:
  • By joining IMDRF, India will gain access to international medical device regulatory strategies, promoting innovation and timely access to medical devices.
• Harmonization of Regulations:
  • IMDRF membership will help India in harmonizing regulatory requirements with other countries, reducing the complexity for manufacturers and safeguarding public health.
• “Brand India” Strengthening:
  • This membership will allow Indian medical device manufacturers to meet global regulatory standards, thus strengthening the position of Brand India in the international medical device market.

Important Terms Explained:

• CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization):
  • India’s national regulatory authority responsible for regulating medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and ensuring public health safety.
• IMDRF (International Medical Device Regulators Forum):
  • A global collaborative group of regulators established in 2011, aimed at harmonizing medical device regulations internationally.

Static GK Information:

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6. Who co-chaired the India-U.S. CEO Forum held in Washington D.C. in October 2024?
A) Narendra Modi and Joe Biden
B) Piyush Goyal and Gina Raimondo
C) N. Chandrasekaran and James Taiclet
D) Amit Shah and Kamala Harris
E) Piyush Goyal and Lloyd Austin
Answer: B) Piyush Goyal and Gina Raimondo

Event and Location:

• Event: The India-U.S. CEO Forum was jointly chaired by Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Ms. Gina Raimondo on October 3, 2024 in Washington D.C., USA.
• Location: The forum took place in Washington D.C. and focused on enhancing bilateral economic ties between India and the U.S.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Economic Cooperation:
  • The India-U.S. CEO Forum serves as a platform for private sector leaders from both countries to offer recommendations and suggestions to strengthen bilateral economic links.
  • The forum also provides inputs to the U.S.-India Commercial Dialogue to further foster economic growth.
• Key Participants:
  • The forum is co-chaired from the private sector by Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, and Mr. James Taiclet, CEO of Lockheed Martin.
  • A total of 16 CEOs from both sides participated, discussing key sectors such as Aerospace & Defence, ICT & Digital Infrastructure, Healthcare, and Energy.
• Main Outcomes:
  • Discussion on critical sectors like small businesses, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
  • Progress review of initiatives like the innovation handshake and NIHIT (Network for Innovation and Harnessing Investments and Trade).
  • Both sides emphasized the importance of critical minerals supply chains and enhancing U.S. investments in India’s industrial cities.

Important Terms Explained:

• NIHIT (Network for Innovation and Harnessing Investments and Trade):
  • A platform for innovation and knowledge sharing, aimed at boosting trade and investments between India and the U.S.
• U.S.-India Commercial Dialogue:
  • A bilateral platform for government-to-government discussions to promote trade and investment between India and the U.S.

Static GK Information:

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7. Which organization will act as the implementing agency for India’s participation in the International Energy Efficiency Hub?
A) NITI Aayog
B) Ministry of Power
C) Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
D) Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC)
E) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
Answer: C) Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved India’s participation in the International Energy Efficiency Hub by signing a Letter of Intent.
• Location: India will now join an exclusive 16-nation group sharing best practices on energy efficiency and sustainable energy solutions.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Joining the Energy Efficiency Hub:
  • India will join the International Energy Efficiency Hub, which was established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), in which India was a former member.
• Global Collaboration:
  • The Hub allows governments, international organizations, and the private sector to collaborate, share strategic energy practices, and innovative solutions aimed at promoting energy efficiency globally.
• Member Nations:
  • As of July 2024, the Hub has 16 member countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, United States, and United Kingdom.
• Implementing Agency:
  • Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory agency under the Ministry of Power, will be the implementing agency for India’s participation in the Hub. BEE will align India’s contributions with its national energy efficiency goals.
• Key Benefits for India:
  • India will gain access to a vast network of global experts and resources, enhancing its domestic energy efficiency initiatives.
  • This move will help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy, improve energy security, and contribute to global climate change efforts.

Important Terms Explained:

• Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE):
  • The statutory agency under the Ministry of Power responsible for promoting energy efficiency in India. BEE will be responsible for coordinating India’s participation in the Energy Efficiency Hub.
• International Energy Efficiency Hub:
  • A global platform promoting collaboration on energy efficiency practices, bringing together governments and private sector entities to share knowledge and best practices.

Static GK Information:

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8. Which two organizations signed an MoU to collaborate on metro projects in India and abroad?
A) IRCTC and DMRC
B) RITES Ltd and DMRC
C) NHAI and DMRC
D) RITES Ltd and IRCON
E) IRCTC and NHAI
Answer: B) RITES Ltd and DMRC

Event and Location:

• Event: RITES Ltd and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on metro projects in India and abroad.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Key Focus Areas:
  • The MoU focuses on offering services such as:
    • General Consultancy
    • Project Management
    • Detailed Design
    • Feasibility Studies
• Collaboration Benefits:
  • RITES Ltd, a prominent transport infrastructure consultancy, brings expertise in transport systems, while DMRC contributes its vast experience in metro rail operations.
• Goal:
  • The partnership aims to explore and expand urban transit system projects both within India and internationally.

Important Terms Explained:

• RITES Ltd (Rail India Technical and Economic Service):
  • A government-owned engineering consultancy specializing in transport infrastructure.
• DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation):
  • An entity responsible for the planning, design, and operation of the Delhi Metro and other metro systems across India.

Static GK Information:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs October 03

9. According to the Finance Ministry’s new guidelines on handling delayed tax refund claims, which authority handles cases where the claim amount exceeds Rs 3 crore?
A) Principal Commissioners of Income-tax (Pr. CsIT)
B) Chief Commissioners of Income-tax (CCsIT)
C) Principal Chief Commissioners of Income-tax (Pr. CCsIT)
D) Commissioner of Income-tax, CPC, Bengaluru
E) Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
Answer: C) Principal Chief Commissioners of Income-tax (Pr. CCsIT)

Event and Location:

• Event: The Ministry of Finance, through the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), has released updated guidelines to streamline the process for handling delayed tax refund claims and loss carry forward applications.
• Location: The circular was issued by the CBDT on October 1, 2024.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Condonation of Delay for Refund Claims:
  • The guidelines focus on condoning delays in filing tax refund claims and carry forward of loss applications.
  • The guidelines aim to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for higher-value refund claims, making the process faster and more transparent.
• Three-Tier Authority Structure:
  • For refunds up to Rs 1 crore: Handled by Principal Commissioners of Income-tax (Pr. CsIT) or Commissioners of Income-tax (CsIT).
  • For refunds between Rs 1 crore and Rs 3 crore: Handled by Chief Commissioners of Income-tax (CCsIT).
  • For refunds above Rs 3 crore: Handled by Principal Chief Commissioners of Income-tax (Pr. CCsIT).
• Time Limit for Filing:
  • Taxpayers have a five-year limit from the end of the relevant assessment year to file condonation applications.

Important Terms Explained:

• Condonation of Delay:
  • The process by which tax authorities allow claims or applications to be processed despite missing the original deadline.
• Refund Claims:
  • Arises when taxpayers have overpaid taxes through advance tax, self-assessment tax, or tax deducted/collected at source (TDS/TCS).
• CBDT (Central Board of Direct Taxes):
  • A part of the Ministry of Finance that deals with policy formulation and implementation of direct tax laws in India.

Static GK Information:

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10. What is the name of the road in front of the Jamaica High Commission in New Delhi, as announced by PM Modi?
A) Jamaica Road
B) Kingston Avenue
C) Caribbean Street
D) Jamaica Marg
E) Usain Bolt Lane
Answer: D) Jamaica Marg

Event and Location:

• Event: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the renaming of the road in front of the Jamaican High Commission in New Delhi as ‘Jamaica Marg’, symbolizing the growing ties between India and Jamaica.
• Location: Jamaica Marg, located in front of the Jamaican High Commission, was officially named during the Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ official visit to India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Strengthening Bilateral Ties:
  • The announcement reflects a commitment to deepen the historical and cultural connections between India and Jamaica.
  • PM Modi emphasized that the ties between the two nations will grow “faster than Usain Bolt,” referencing the famous Jamaican sprinter.
• Sports and Cultural Cooperation:
  • The relationship is further solidified by shared interests such as cricket and cultural ties, particularly due to the 70,000 Indian-origin residents in Jamaica.
• Jamaican PM’s Visit to India:
  • Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness is on his first official visit to India from September 30 to October 3, 2024, marking the first-ever bilateral visit by a Jamaican Prime Minister to India.

Important Terms Explained:

• Jamaica Marg:
  • A road in New Delhi, named to honor the growing diplomatic and cultural relations between India and Jamaica.
• Usain Bolt:
  • A world-renowned Jamaican sprinter and Olympic champion, known for being the fastest man in the world.

Static GK Information:

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11. Who chaired the 4th General Council Meeting of the Khelo India Scheme in October 2024?
A) Narendra Modi
B) Nirmala Sitharaman
C) Anurag Thakur
D) Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya
E) Amit Shah
Answer: D) Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Event and Location:

• Event: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, chaired the 4th General Council Meeting of the Khelo India Scheme in New Delhi on October 3, 2024.
• Location: The meeting took place in New Delhi, and it was attended by senior officials from states, Sports Control Boards, and National Sports Federations.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Draft Sports Policy:
  • A Draft Sports Policy was released for public consultation to modernize the current sports framework. This policy will also serve as a model for states without existing sports policies.
• Talent Identification and Athlete Welfare:
  • Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the need for a Whole-of-Government Approach to improve talent identification and welfare programs for athletes, coordinating efforts between Central and State agencies.
• Key Decisions and Announcements:
  • Reconstitution of Sub-Committees:
    • Sub-committees will be reconstituted to focus on athlete welfare, talent identification, and sports infrastructure improvement.
  • Sports Recruitment Portal:
    • The Ministry will develop a dedicated portal in collaboration with states and central ministries to streamline recruitment for sportspersons and promote transparency.
  • Unified Sports Infrastructure Database:
    • A national database will consolidate all existing sports infrastructure data under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, gathering inputs from states, Sports Federations, and other entities.

Important Terms Explained:

• Khelo India Scheme:
  • A government initiative aimed at promoting sports and fitness by providing opportunities and infrastructure for young athletes at the grassroots level.
• PM Gati Shakti:
  • A comprehensive infrastructure development initiative aimed at improving connectivity and infrastructure planning in India.

Static GK Information:

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12. Who inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of projects worth ₹919 crore in Gujarat in October 2024?
A) Bhupendra Patel
B) Narendra Modi
C) Mansukh Mandaviya
D) Amit Shah
E) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: D) Amit Shah

Event and Location:

• Event: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development projects worth ₹919 crore in Gujarat on October 3, 2024.
• Location: The event took place in Ahmedabad, and was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other dignitaries.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Development Projects:
  • These projects include improvements in health, education, libraries, parks, and infrastructure for street vendors.
  • A major highlight is the construction of modern schools by the Nagar Prathmik Shiksha Samiti, transforming municipal primary schools into model schools.
• Investment Details:
  • ₹472 crore worth of projects were inaugurated in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency.
  • ₹446 crore worth of projects were launched in Ahmedabad East and West constituencies.
• Cleanliness Campaign:
  • Amit Shah emphasized cleanliness, aiming for Ahmedabad to reach the top spot in the national cleanliness survey, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
• Whole-of-Society Approach:
  • Shah praised PM Modi’s vision for transforming the cleanliness campaign into a mass movement, comparing his efforts to those of Mahatma Gandhi.

Important Terms Explained:

• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
  • A nationwide cleanliness drive launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, focusing on sanitation, hygiene, and building toilets in rural and urban areas.
• Nagar Prathmik Shiksha Samiti:
  • The local body responsible for primary education in urban areas, driving the transformation of municipal schools into modern educational institutions.

Static GK Information:

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13. Which institution organized the regional conference of Asian and African Chair holders of the WTO Chairs Programme in New Delhi in September 2024?
A) Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
B) Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)
C) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
D) National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP)
E) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Answer: B) Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)

Event and Location:

• Event: The Indian Chair of the WTO Chairs Programme organized a regional conference for Asian and African Chair holders on September 27-28, 2024. The theme of the conference was “Fostering Resilient and Responsible Trade for Changing Global Order”.
• Location: The event took place at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Key Themes Discussed:
  • Alignment of Trade Strategies:
    • The necessity to align regional and multilateral trade strategies for coherent and effective global trade norms.
  • Digital Solutions for Trade Barriers:
    • Addressing barriers to trade using digital tools to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all nations, particularly developing countries.
  • Climate-Responsive Trade Norms:
    • A focus on climate action and sustainable development, especially addressing the challenges faced by developing countries.
• Speakers and Participants:
  • Several dignitaries, including India’s Ambassador to the WTO, Dr. Senthil Pandian, Deputy Director General of WTO, Amb. Xiangchen Zhang, and Prof. Joel Trachtman from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, addressed the conference.
  • Representatives from Asian and African WTO Chair holders, scholars, and policymakers shared their insights on fostering resilient and responsible trade.

Important Terms Explained:

• WTO Chairs Programme (WCP):
  • A WTO initiative supporting trade-related academic activities in developing countries by promoting research, training, and outreach.
• IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade):
  • An autonomous public business school that administers India’s WTO Chair through its Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) and Centre for WTO Studies (CWS).

Static GK Information:

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14. What is the total proposed expenditure for the implementation of PM-RKVY and Krishonnati Yojana (KY) approved by the Cabinet?
A) Rs 95,000 crore
B) Rs 1,01,321.61 crore
C) Rs 90,500 crore
D) Rs 1,15,000 crore
E) Rs 1,03,320 crore
Answer: B) Rs 1,01,321.61 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana (KY) to promote sustainable agriculture and achieve food security.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• PM-RKVY:
  • The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana is a cafeteria scheme focusing on sustainable agriculture by promoting a variety of initiatives such as Soil Health Management, Rainfed Area Development, Agroforestry, and Per Drop More Crop.
• Krishonnati Yojana (KY):
  • This scheme addresses food security and self-sufficiency in agriculture, ensuring that India becomes less dependent on food imports.
• Total Proposed Expenditure:
  • The total expenditure for both schemes is Rs 1,01,321.61 crore, with Rs 69,088.98 crore coming from the central share and Rs 32,232.63 crore from the state share.
• Flexibility to States:
  • States are given the flexibility to re-allocate funds between components based on their specific needs, allowing them to create comprehensive strategic plans for their agricultural sectors.
• Mission Mode Projects:
  • The National Mission for Edible Oil-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), Digital Agriculture, and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana are key components under PM-RKVY that aim to promote sustainable farming practices and modernize Indian agriculture.
• Value Chain Clusters and Climate Resilience:
  • The focus is also on climate-resilient agriculture, nutrition security, and the development of value chains for agricultural commodities, ensuring convergence and avoiding duplication of efforts across states.

Important Terms Explained:

• PM-RKVY (Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana):
  • A scheme promoting sustainable agriculture by addressing critical areas such as soil health, irrigation, and crop diversification.
• Krishonnati Yojana (KY):
  • A scheme focusing on food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.
• Soil Health Management:
  • A key component under PM-RKVY, promoting soil testing and improving soil fertility for better crop productivity.

Static GK Information:

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15. What is the total length of new metro lines approved under Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II?
A) 100 km
B) 118.9 km
C) 150 km
D) 173 km
E) 120.5 km
Answer: B) 118.9 km

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved Phase-II of the Chennai Metro Rail Project, which will span 118.9 km and include 128 stations.
• Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Phase-II Details:
  • The project will cover three key corridors:
    • Madhavaram to SIPCOT: 45.8 km with 50 stations.
    • Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass: 26.1 km with 30 stations.
    • Madhavaram to Sholinganallur: 47 km with 48 stations.
  • Total length of new lines: 118.9 km, increasing Chennai’s metro network to 173 km once Phase-II is fully operational.
• Project Cost and Timeline:
  • The total project cost is Rs 63,246 crore, and it is expected to be completed by 2027.
• Key Benefits:
  • Enhanced Connectivity:
    • The new corridors will connect North to South and East to West of Chennai, improving access to industrial, commercial, residential, and institutional areas.
    • Expands metro connectivity to rapidly growing areas like Sholinganallur, a major IT hub in South Chennai.
  • Reduction in Traffic Congestion:
    • The metro is expected to reduce road traffic and alleviate congestion, particularly on heavily trafficked routes.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    • The project will reduce carbon emissions by providing an eco-friendly transport alternative to fossil fuel-based road transport.
  • Economic Growth and Job Creation:
    • The construction and operation of Phase-II will generate jobs in various sectors and boost local businesses around new stations, spurring economic development.
  • Social Impact:
    • The expanded metro network will provide equitable access to public transport, reducing disparities and improving the quality of life for diverse socio-economic groups.

Important Terms Explained:

• Chennai Metro Phase-II:
  • The second phase of Chennai’s metro network, expanding the city’s public transport infrastructure to cater to growing urban needs.
• Multi-Modal Integration:
  • The project will feature multi-modal integration at 21 locations, improving coordination between different modes of transport.

Static GK Information:

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16. Which languages were granted Classical Language status by the Cabinet in October 2024?
A) Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, and Kannada
B) Bengali, Marathi, Prakrit, and Assamese
C) Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali
D) Odia, Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Tamil
E) Malayalam, Kannada, Sanskrit, and Assamese
Answer: C) Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the conferring of Classical Language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Criteria for Classical Language:
  • Languages are designated as Classical if they meet several criteria, including:
    • High antiquity of texts over a period of 1500-2000 years.
    • Possession of ancient literature that is considered a heritage by generations of speakers.
    • The literary tradition is original and not borrowed from another language.
    • The classical language may be distinct from its current form or later offshoots.
• Languages Granted Classical Status in 2024:
  • Marathi
  • Pali
  • Prakrit
  • Assamese
  • Bengali
• Historical and Cultural Importance:
  • These languages serve as custodians of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
    Benefits of Classical Language Status:
• Employment Generation:
  • The recognition of these languages will generate employment opportunities in academic and research fields as well as in areas like archiving, translation, and digital documentation.
• Promotion of Classical Languages:
  • Various national and international awards, university chairs, and centers of excellence will be instituted to promote the study and preservation of these languages.
• Research and Education Impact:
  • The Ministry of Education has initiated efforts to promote these languages, including setting up centers of excellence and facilitating the translation of ancient texts.

Important Terms Explained:

• Classical Language:
  • A language recognized for its historical importance, ancient literature, and cultural significance.
• Sahitya Akademi:
  • India’s national academy of letters, responsible for promoting Indian literature, under which the Linguistic Experts Committee (LEC) reviews and recommends languages for Classical Language status.

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17. How many days’ Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) has been approved for railway employees in 2024?
A) 70 days
B) 78 days
C) 80 days
D) 85 days
E) 65 days
Answer: B) 78 days

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the payment of 78 days’ Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) to railway employees for the financial year 2023-24.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Eligible Employees:
  • 11.72 lakh non-gazetted railway employees are eligible for the PLB, including:
    • Track maintainers, Loco Pilots, Train Managers (Guards), Station Masters, Technicians, Supervisors, Pointsman, and other Group C staff.
• Maximum Payment:
  • The maximum amount payable per eligible employee is Rs. 17,951 for 78 days.
• Total Financial Outlay:
  • The total outlay for the bonus is Rs. 2028.57 crore.
• Timing:
  • The PLB is typically paid each year before the Durga Puja/Dusshera holidays, acting as an incentive for railway employees.

Performance Highlights for 2023-24:

• Record Railway Performance:
  • Railways loaded a record 1588 Million Tonnes of cargo and carried nearly 6.7 billion passengers during the fiscal year 2023-24.
• Contributing Factors:
  • The excellent performance was due to improvements in infrastructure, efficiency in operations, and better technology implementation.

Important Terms Explained:

• Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB):
  • A bonus paid based on performance metrics to incentivize employees for their contribution to the improvement in productivity and overall performance of the organization.

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18. What is the primary goal of the Family Digital Card programme launched by the Telangana Government?
A) One Nation-One Card
B) One State-One Card
C) Digital Identity for Women
D) Single Ration Card
E) Health and Education Access for All
Answer: B) One State-One Card

Event and Location:

• Event: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy launched the pilot programme for the Family Digital Card initiative on October 3, 2024.
• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana.

Mandates and Objectives:

• One State-One Card:
  • The goal of the Family Digital Card initiative is to implement a One State-One Card system in Telangana.
• Recognizing Women as Family Heads:
  • The Family Digital Card will recognize women as the head of the family and include information on welfare schemes across 30 departments, including health profiles and benefits.
• Key Welfare Schemes Included:
  • The card will enable access to major welfare schemes such as:
    • Ration distribution
    • Aarogyasri (healthcare)
    • Fee reimbursement
• Pilot Programme Implementation:
  • The programme is being rolled out in 119 constituencies, with a Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) overseeing its implementation in each constituency.
  • The scheme will be fine-tuned based on feedback from the pilot programme.

Important Terms Explained:

• Aarogyasri:
  • A healthcare scheme providing financial assistance for medical treatments to low-income families in Telangana.
• Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO):
  • An officer in charge of managing the implementation of government schemes at the constituency level.

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19. Which institution launched the Cyber Commandos training program to strengthen India’s cyber defence?
A) NITI Aayog
B) IIT Delhi
C) IIT Madras Pravartak
D) DRDO
E) ISRO
Answer: C) IIT Madras Pravartak

Event and Location:

• Event: IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation launched the Cyber Commandos training program on October 3, 2024, aimed at strengthening India’s cyber defence capabilities.
• Location: IIT Madras, Chennai.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of the Program:
  • This initiative, led by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to train law enforcement officers to become Cyber Commandos, proactively defending India against cyberattacks, safeguarding sensitive data, and maintaining digital sovereignty.
• Difference from Cybercrime Cells:
  • Unlike existing cybercrime cells, which primarily focus on reactive measures like investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes, the Cyber Commandos will act as a proactive force to combat emerging cyber challenges.
• Key Training Goals:
  • Equip State and Central police personnel with advanced skills to:
    • Investigate complex digital crimes
    • Track cybercriminals
    • Protect critical infrastructure

Important Terms Explained:

• Cyber Commandos:
  • A specialized group of law enforcement officers trained in advanced cyber defence tactics to address cyber threats proactively and protect national security.
• IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation:
  • A technology innovation hub based at IIT Madras, focusing on cybersecurity and technological advancements to tackle modern challenges.

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20. How many unemployable youth does the PM Internship Scheme (PMIS) aim to onboard as interns in the pilot project by December 2, 2024?
A) 50,000
B) 1 lakh
C) 1.25 lakh
D) 75,000
E) 2 lakh
Answer: C) 1.25 lakh

Event and Location:

• Event: The PM Internship Scheme (PMIS) was launched with a pilot project worth ₹800 crore to onboard 1.25 lakh unemployable youth into corporate internships by December 2, 2024.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Goal of the Scheme:
  • The scheme aims to provide internship opportunities to 1 crore youth over the next five years, as part of the ₹2 lakh crore spending plan by the Modi 3.0 government for job creation and skilling initiatives.
• Pilot Project:
  • The pilot project will involve 1.25 lakh youth in the top 500 CSR spending companies by December 2, 2024. The internships aim to expose unemployable youth to real-life business environments.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • The program is open to youth between the ages of 21 and 24 who have passed Class 10.
  • It targets youth from economically weaker sections (EWS) with family incomes under ₹8 lakh.
  • Individuals from families with government jobs are excluded from the program.
• Implementation and Process:
  • BISAG-N (Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics) has been appointed as the vendor for the online platform, which will oversee the registration and selection process.
  • Reservations are in place for SC, ST, OBC, and disabled categories, and companies must adhere to these rules for internship placements.

Important Terms Explained:

• CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility):
  • A mandate for companies to contribute to social welfare activities, including education, skill development, and sustainability.
• BISAG-N:
  • An agency responsible for space applications and geo-informatics technologies, playing a key role in managing the PM Internship Scheme portal.

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21. What is the targeted oilseed production under the National Mission on Edible Oil (Oilseeds) by FY2031?
A) 50 million tonnes
B) 60 million tonnes
C) 69.7 million tonnes
D) 79 million tonnes
E) 39 million tonnes
Answer: C) 69.7 million tonnes

Event and Location:

• Event: The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Edible Oil (Oilseeds) with an estimated outlay of ₹10,103 crore to be implemented over the next six years.
• Location: India.

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mission Objective:
  • The mission aims to increase oilseed production by 79%, targeting 69.7 million tonnes (mt) by 2030-31, up from the current production of 39 million tonnes.
• Key Oilseed Crops:
  • The mission focuses on boosting the production of groundnut, mustard, and soybean, aiming to reduce India’s dependency on edible oil imports.
• Cost and Duration:
  • The mission will be implemented with a financial outlay of ₹10,103 crore over the next six years.

Important Terms Explained:

• Oilseeds:
  • Crops such as groundnut, mustard, and soybean that are used to produce edible oil.
• Edible Oil Import Dependency:
  • India is heavily dependent on imported edible oils, and increasing domestic production will help reduce this dependency.

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Over All Review

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