Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM

Browse over 1 million classes created by top students, professors, publishers, and experts.


See full index

October 2023 > Oct 1st Week Top 60 > Flashcards

Oct 1st Week Top 60 Flashcards

1
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are ‘correct’ with respect to the amendment of Cable
    Television Network (CTN) Rules of 1994 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
    (MIB) in September 2023?
    A) The Multi-System Operators (MSOs) will be required to submit their registration or renewal
    applications online through Broadcast Seva Portal of MIB.
    B) The Registrations for MSOs will be approved or renewed for a duration of 5 years.
    C) A processing fee of Rs. One lakh will be applicable for the renewal of registration.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 4) Only A & C
Explanation:
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued a notification amending the Cable
Television Network(CTN) Rules of 1994. Moreover, a new provision has been added, enabling Cable
Operators to share infrastructure with Broadband Service providers.
· This amendment introduces a formal procedure for the renewal of registrations for Multi-
System Operators (MSOs). This significant change updates the rules which previously only
allowed for fresh registrations.
i. Following are the amended rules:
· MSOs will be required to submit their registration or renewal applications online through
Broadcast Seva Portal of MIB.
· Registrations for MSOs will be approved or renewed for a duration of ten years.
· A processing fee of Rs. One lakh will be applicable for the renewal of registration.
· Requests for the renewal of registration must be made within seven to two months prior to the
expiration of the current registration.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q
  1. In September 2023, the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, increased the
    interest rate on the 5-year recurring deposit scheme to _________ from 6.5% for the 3rd quarter
    (October-December) of 2023-2024 (Q3FY24).
    1) 7.0%
    2) 6.8%
    3) 6.6%
    4) 6.9%
    5) 6.7%
A

Answer- 5) 6.7%
Explanation:
The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA-Budget Division), Ministry of Finance, has increased
the interest rate on the 5-year recurring deposit scheme by 20 basis points to 6.7% from 6.5% for
the 3rd quarter (October-December) of 2023-2024 i.e. Q3FY24.
i. The rates of other small savings schemes remained unchanged.
ii. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, in FY23, household net financial savings rate hit
a historic low at 5.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), down from 7.2% in FY22.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q
  1. What is India’s rank in the 16th edition of the Global Innovation Index (2023) published by
    the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in September 2023?
    1) 15th
    2) 40th
    3) 50th
    4) 30th
    5) 25th
A

Answer- 2) 40th
Explanation:
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), an agency of the United Nations, published the
16th edition of the Global Innovation Index (2023). India retains 40th rank among 132 economies.
· While Switzerland secured the top spot in the rankings, with Sweden and the United States of
America (USA) following closely.
· Notably, India has made significant progress, climbing 26 places from its 2013 ranking when it
stood at 66th place. India was at 81st place in 2015.
· NITI Aayog, in partnership with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and WIPO, has hosted
the virtual India Launch of Global Innovation Index (GII) on September 29, 2023.
· Published annually, It reveals the ranking of this year’s most innovative economies in the world
amongst 132 economies and localizes the top 100 science and technology innovation clusters.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q
  1. Which country has recently (in Sept ‘23) signed a Social Security Agreement (SSA) with India
    to ensure professionals and workers retain benefits?
    1) France
    2) Brazil
    3) Spain
    4) Argentina
    5) Germany
A

Answer- 4) Argentina
Explanation:
On September 29, 2023, a Social Security Agreement (SSA) was signed between India and Argentina
to ensure professionals and workers retain benefits and contributions made toward social security,
promoting easier mobility between countries.
i. This SSA covers Indian laws on old age, survivor’s pension and permanent, total disability pension
for employed persons, and includes Argentina’s contributory benefits under their Social Security
System.
ii. The agreement grants temporary overseas workers and their families full rights to contributory
benefits such as cash allowance for retirement or pension, rent, subsidy or lump sum payments,
without reduction, modification, or suspension.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q
  1. In September 2023, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) extended the deadline
    for adding nominees to demat accounts and submitting PAN and KYC details for physical
    security holders until _____________.
    1) 31st March 2024
    2) 31st December 2023
    3) 31st January 2024
    4) 30th November 2023
    5) 30th April 2024
A

Answer- 2) 31st December 2023
Explanation:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) extended the deadline for adding nominees to
demat accounts and submitting PAN and KYC details for physical security holders until December
31, 2023. SEBI also extended the nomination deadline specifically for mutual fund unit holders until
January 1, 2024.
Extension Deadline for Current Demat Account Holders
· The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced an extension of the deadline
for current demat account holders to select their nominees for an additional three months, now
ending on December 31, 2023.
· SEBI has extended the deadline to another three months for mutual fund account holders to
nominate a beneficiary or opt out until January 1,2024. If investors fail to comply, their folios
will be frozen with effect from January 1,2024.
· Earlier, the deadline for existing mutual fund holders to provide a choice of nomination was
September 30.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q
  1. In September 2023, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu presented the National Service
    Scheme Awards for the year 2021-2022 to ____________ persons at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New
    Delhi, Delhi.
    1) 70
    2) 49
    3) 38
    4) 52
    5) 40
A

Answer- 4) 52
Explanation:
On 29 September 2023, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu presented the National Service
Scheme Awards for the year 2021-2022 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, Delhi. The award was
given to 52 persons to recognize their outstanding contributions towards voluntary community
social services.
i. The awards included 3 categories namely Universities/+ 2 Council (2 Awards); NSS units and their
Programme Officers (10 NSS Units + 10 Programme Officers); and NSS volunteers (30 Awards).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q
  1. As of September 2023, Who will receive the Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology &
    Research Academy (SASTRA) Ramanujan Prize for 2023?
    1) Ruixiang Zhang (China)
    2) Shai Evra (United States of America)
    3) Will Sawin (Spain)
    4) Yunqing Tang (United States of America)
    5) Adam Harper (Russia)
A

Answer- 1) Ruixiang Zhang (China)
Explanation:
The Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Ramanujan Prize for
2023 will be awarded to Ruixiang Zhang of China, Assistant Professor at the University of California,
Berkeley, the United States of America(USA) for his contribution to Mathematics from analytic
number theory, combinatorics, Euclidean harmonic analysis to geometry.
i. The Prize will be conferred at the International Conference on Number Theory, which will be held
from 20 to 22 December 2023 at SASTRA University in Kumbakonam(birthplace of Ramanujan) of
Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
ii. The SASTRA Ramanujan Prize, instituted by the SASTRA University in 2005 with a cash prize of
USD 10,000 & the award is given annually to a mathematician not exceeding the age of 32 for
outstanding contributions in an area of Mathematics.
iii. The 2023 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize Committee
comprised:
· Krishnaswami Alladi -Chair (University of Florida,
USA),
· Don Blasius (University of California, Los Angeles,
USA)
· Sergei Konyagin (Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Russia)
· Jonathan Pila (Oxford University, United
Kingdom)
· Bjorn Poonen (Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, USA)
· Zeev Rudnick (Tel Aviv University, Israel), and
· Wadim Zudilin (Radboud University, The
Netherlands)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are ‘correct’ with respect to the winners of the Inaugural
    IOC Climate Action Awards announced by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in
    September 2023?
    A) Marcus Mepstead (fencing, United Kingdom) under the Athlete Category for developing an
    annual travel plan that reduces emissions.
    B) Paloma Schmidt (Sailing, Peru) under Athlete Category For implementing a number of
    waste-reduction measures as a member of the organising committee of the International Laser
    Class Association (ILCA) European Championships.

C) Ben Blankenship, a middle-distance athlete from the United States of America (USA) won the
Athlete Advocacy Award for his work in promoting sustainability through the Endless Mileage
Project.
1) Only A
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) All A, B & C

A

Answer- 5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the winners of the inaugural IOC Climate
Action Awards, which recognise athletes, International Federations (IFs), and National Olympic
Committees (NOCs) for their efforts to combat climate change.
· IOC Climate Action Awards 2023 were awarded under 3 categories: sustainable travel,
innovation, and athlete advocacy.
Winners of 2023 IOC Climate Action Awards:
Sustainable Travel Award:
· The Airbnb supported Climate Action x Sustainable Travel Award acknowledges effective
initiatives and campaigns to travel more sustainably within the sports calendar.
· Marcus Mepstead Fencing, United Kingdom (UK) under the Athlete Category for developing
an annual travel plan that reduces emissions.
Innovation Award:
· The Deloitte supported Climate Action x Innovation Award recognises the unique and
innovative ideas presented by athletes, IFs, and NOCs to help promote climate action.
· Paloma Schmidt (Sailing, Peru) under Athlete Category For implementing a number of
waste-reduction measures as a member of the organising committee of the International Laser
Class Association (ILCA) European Championships in Andora, Italy.
Athlete Advocacy Award:
· P&G supported Climate Action x Athlete Advocacy Award recognises athletes who actively
engage individuals and communities in the campaign against climate change.
· Ben Blankenship, a middle-distance athlete from the United States of America (USA) won the
Athlete Advocacy Award for his work in promoting sustainability through the Endless Mileage
Project.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q
  1. In September 2023, International Finance Corporation(IFC) received approval from Reserve
    Bank of India (RBI) to acquire upto 9.7% of the paid-up share capital of _________________ (Bank).
    1) IndusInd Bank
    2) Federal Bank
    3) ICICI Bank
    4) HDFC Bank
    5) Axis Bank
A

Answer- 2) Federal Bank
Explanation:
International Finance Corporation (IFC) has received approval from Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to
acquire upto 9.7% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of the in Federal Bank Limited
(subject to the conditions specified therein).
i. The approval has been granted by RBI with reference to the application made by IFC.
ii. The approval granted by RBI is subject to the compliance with the relevant provisions of the
· Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949.
· RBI’s Master Direction and Guidelines on Acquisition and Holding of Shares or Voting Rights in
Banking Companies dated January 16, 2023 (as amended from time to time).
· Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 1999.
· Regulation 30 of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) (Listing Obligations and
Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
· Any other guidelines, regulations and statutes as applicable.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q
  1. Which company has recently (in Sept ‘23) acquired India’s first Airbus A350-900 aircraft
    through a finance lease transaction with HSBC via the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City
    (GIFT City)?
    1) IndiGo
    2) SpiceJet
    3) Air India
    4) Vistara
    5) Go First
A

Answer- 3) Air India
Explanation:
On September 29, 2023, Tata Group owned Air India successfully acquired India’s first Airbus
A350-900 aircraft by way of finance lease transaction with HSBC through AI Fleet Services Limited
(AIFS), a 100% subsidiary of Air India, and a Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City)
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)-registered finance company.
· Air India is India’s first scheduled carrier to have acquired an aircraft from an entity registered
in GIFT City.
· It is also its first financing transaction from its orders for 470 aircraft that were made earlier in
2023.
i. Air India has placed orders for six A350-900 planes and five of them are scheduled for delivery
through March 2024.
ii. Air India had signed purchase agreements to acquire these aircraft with Airbus and Boeing on the
sidelines of the Paris Air Show held in June 2023.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q
  1. In September 2023, the Union Minister of State (MoS) of Personnel, Public Grievances &
    Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh launched the ___________ Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0
    Public Grievance portal and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of the Department
    of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
    1) Inquiry
    2) Integrated
    3) India
    4) Integrity
    5) Intelligent
A

Answer- 5) Intelligent
Explanation:
On September 29, 2023, the Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Personnel,
Public Grievances & Pensions, launched the Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0
Public Grievance portal and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of the Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
· He also launched the Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 and released the Precedent Book (e-
book) prepared by DARPG, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
i. IGMS 2.0 dashboard has been implemented by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, Uttar
Pradesh (UP) following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DARPG on December 14, 2021
for upgrading Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) with Artificial
Intelligence (AI) capabilities.
ii. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh also launched the Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 w.e.f. October
2, 2023 i.e. on the occasion of Birth Anniversary of Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, till 31st
October, 2023.
· It is a sequel of the Special campaigns conducted in the last two years.
· DARPG is the Nodal Department for implementation of Special Campaign 3.0.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Women’s Reservation Bill
    2023, as of September 2023?
    A) President Droupadi Murmu has granted assent to the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, which
    mandates a 33% reservation (one-third of total seats) for women in the Lok Sabha, State
    Legislative assemblies, and National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.
    B) Following the President’s assent, this Bill will be recognized as the Constitution (120th
    Amendment) Act and commonly referred to as Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, has been
    introduced in the Indian Parliament.
    C) The Bill introduces Article 332A, which mandates the reservation of seats for women in
    every state Legislative Assembly.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 4) Only A & C
Explanation:
On September 29, 2023, as per the notification issued by the Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
,President Droupadi Murmu has granted assent to the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, which
mandates a 33% reservation (one-third of total seats) for women in the Lok Sabha, State Legislative
assemblies, and National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. This historic decision was officially
approved by the President on September 28, 2023.
· Following the President’s assent, this Bill will be recognized as the Constitution (106th
Amendment) Act.
· The Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, officially titled as The Constitution (128th Amendment)
Bill, 2023 and commonly referred to as Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, has been introduced
in the Indian Parliament.
· The Women’s Reservation Bill cannot be enacted into law until the year 2026.The bill can only
become effective after a process known as “delimitation” is carried out in the
country.Delimitation is necessary to allocate seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative
assemblies in a manner that reserves a specific percentage (in this case, 33 percent) for
women.
· The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill, will also apply to seats reserved for Scheduled Castes
(SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies.
· In article 239AA of the Constitution, One-third of total Seats shall be reserved for women in the
Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
· As per Article 330A, one-third of the total number of seats to be filled by direct election to the
House of the People shall be reserved for women in the Lok Sabha.
· The Bill introduces Article 332A, which mandates the reservation of seats for women in every
state Legislative Assembly.
· The New article – 334A is introduced, according to which the reservation will be effective after
the census conducted after the commencement of this Bill has been published. Based on the
census, delimitation will be undertaken to reserve seats for women.
· The reservation will be provided for a period of 15 years. However, it shall continue till such
date as determined by a law made by Parliament.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q
  1. Name the union minister who has recently (in Sept ‘23) launched the Bharatiya Bhasha
    Utsav and inaugurated the two-day Technology & Bharatiya Bhasha summit in New Delhi,
    Delhi.
    1) Anurag Singh Thakur (Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting & Youth Affairs and Sports
    2) Amit Shah (Union Minister of Home Affairs & Cooperation)
    3) G. Kishan Reddy (Union Minister of Culture, Tourism & Development of North Eastern Region)
    4) Dharmendra Pradhan (Union Minister of Education & Skill Development and Entrepreneurship)
    5) Ashwini Vaishnaw (Union Minister of Railways, Communications & Electronics and IT)
A

Answer- 4) Dharmendra Pradhan (Union Minister of Education and Skill Development &
Entrepreneurship)
Explanation:
On 30th September 2023, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Ministry of Education(MoE) and
the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), launched the Bharatiya Bhasha
Utsav and inaugurated the two-day Technology & Bharatiya Bhasha summit in New Delhi, Delhi.
· The 2-day summit, held from 30th September to 1st October 2023, was organised as a part of
the 75-day Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav that commenced on 28 September 2023 and will conclude
on 11 December 2023.
· An exhibition was also set up to showcase Bharatiya Bhasha technology products, and their
applications by the industries, government organizations, and start-ups.
· The summit was organised by the MoE, MSDE, and their constituent institutions such as the
Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), University Grants Commission (UGC), National
Educational Technology Forum (NETF), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), National Centre for Vocational & Technical Education (NCVTE), National Council for Teachers
Education (NCTE), Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti (BBS) and others.
· During the two-day summit, a road map for achieving the vision of education in Bharatiya
Languages was prepared for implementation by all stakeholders in the field of education.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q
  1. Name the Param Vir Chakra(PVC) Awardee who has been recently (in Sept’ 23) nominated
    as the ambassador for the “War Against Waste” in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
    1) Captain Naik Karam Singh
    2) Captain Somnath Sharma
    3) Captain Yogendra Singh Yadav
    4) Captain Sanjay Kumar
    5) Captain Bana Singh
A

Answer- 5) Captain Bana Singh
Explanation:
The Directorate of Rural Sanitation, Union Territory of Jammu
and Kashmir(J&K) has nominated Param Vir Chakra(PVC)
Awardee Captain Bana Singh as the ambassador for the “War
Against Waste”, initiative to takle sanitation challenges in rural
areas of J&K.
· The “War Against Waste” campaign attempts to resolve waste management and environmental
conservation challenges in rural J&K.
· Charandeep Singh, Director of Rural Sanitation of J&K announced the nomination of
ambassador at Captain Bana Singh Stadium, R. S. Pura, Jammu during the Swachhata Hi Seva
(SHS 2023) campaign.
· Captain Bana Singh served in the 8th Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI).
· He played a key role in ‘Operation Rajiv’ in which Indian armed forces’ recaptured ‘Quaid Post’
in Siachen Glacier at an altitude of 21,000 feet, from Pakistani soldiers in June 1987.
· The recaptured post was renamed as the ‘Bana Top’ in his honour.
· He was awarded India’s highest wartime gallantry medal “Param Vir Chakra” in 1988.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q
  1. In October 2023, Mohamed Muizzu was elected as the New President of ____________
    (country).
    1) Libya
    2) South Sudan
    3) Kenya
    4) Maldives
    5) Seychelles
A

Answer- 4) Maldives
Explanation:
Mohamed Muizzu of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) was elected as the New President of
Maldives. He is set to be sworn in on 17th November 2023.
i. He defeated the incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (2018 to 2023) of the Maldivian
Democratic Party (MDP) by securing 54% of the votes.
ii. The 45-year-old Mohamed Muizzu is currently serving as the mayor of the capital Male since 2021,
and he is the first mayor of Male to be elected by the people.

iii. He had served as the minister of housing and environment from 2012 to 2018 under the-Maldives
president Abdulla Yameen.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Arogya Manthan 2023
    event hosted by the National Health Authority (NHA) in September 2023?
    A) During the event, the anniversary celebrations of 5 Years of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan
    Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and 2 Years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
    (ABDM).
    B) During the event, Assam tops in the Best Performing State (Large) in the “Highest Ayushman
    Card Creation ‘‘category in AB PM-JAY.
    C) For ABDM, Uttar Pradesh was awarded as the Top State in the Digital health records linked
    with ABHA per lakh population (State).
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 2) Only A & B
Explanation:
The National Health Authority (NHA) hosted the two-day Arogya
Manthan event on September 25th and 26th, 2023, at Vigyan
Bhawan, New Delhi. The event saw the anniversary celebrations
of 5 Years of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya
Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and 2 Years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
i. Awards were presented to states & Union Territories (UTs) for effective implementation of AB PM-
JAY and ABDM under various categories, including gender equity, service delivery, grievance
redressal, and treatments.
· Among the various award categories of AB-PMJAY, the award for “Highest Ayushman Card
Creation” was earned by Assam [Best Performing State (Large)], Nagaland [Best Performing
State (Small)], and Jammu & Kashmir [Best Performing State (UT)].
· For ABDM, Andhra Pradesh was awarded as the Top State in the Digital health records
linked with ABHA per lakh population (State), followed by Karnataka.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the recent launch made by the
    Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during the 276th Annual Day Celebrations of Defence
    Accounts Department (DAD) on 1st October 2023?
    A) Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched several digital initiatives of the DAD,
    including an integrated defence finance dashboard for the Ministry of Defence (MoD)
    ‘SARANSH’ (Summary of Accounts, Budget and Expenditure for Raksha Mantralaya).
    B) He also launched BISWAS (Bill Information and Work Analysis System) and e-Raksha Awaas.
    C) The Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2023 were presented by the Union Minister to 5
    teams for exhibiting exemplary initiatives.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
On 1st October 2023, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched several digital initiatives of the
Defence Accounts Department (DAD) during its 276th annual day celebrations at Delhi
Cantonment(Cantt), Delhi.
i. The newly launched digital initiatives include,
· An integrated defence finance dashboard for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) ‘SARANSH’
(Summary of Accounts, Budget and Expenditure for Raksha Mantralaya)
· BISWAS (Bill Information and Work Analysis System),
· BISWAS will serve as a Dashboard for the various Principal Controller of Defence
Accounts/Controller of Defence Accounts (PCsDA/CsDA) and display different infographics for
the purpose of monitoring and analysing the whole process flow of bill management, including
reports on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
· e-Raksha Awaas.
· It is a centralised and comprehensive software package developed to streamline and optimize
the process of generating timely rent and allied charges for rentable buildings within the
Defence Services and facilitating the prompt remission of rent and allied charges to
Government Accounts.
ii. The Defence Minister also distributed the Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence for the year 2023
during the event. The 5 teams for exhibiting exemplary initiatives in implementing key department
projects.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q
  1. Name the personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) launched ‘Sankalp Saptaah’, a unique
    week-long programme for Aspirational Blocks of India, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Delhi.
    1) Amit Shah (Union Minister of Home Affairs)
    2) Jagdeep Dhankhar (Vice President of India)
    3) Droupadi Murmu (President of India)
    4) Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India)
    5) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (Union Minister of External Affairs)
A

Answer- 4) Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India)
Explanation:
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi launched ‘Sankalp Saptaah’, a unique week-long programme for
Aspirational Blocks of India, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Delhi. He also launched the
Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) Portal and inaugurated the exhibition showcased on the
occasion.
· ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ is linked to the effective implementation of the ABP.
· The programme is observed from 3rd October to 9th October, 2023.
About ABP:
i. The nationwide Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) was launched by the PM in January, 2023.
ii. ABP is an initiative to improve governance at the block level to increase the quality of life of
citizens.
iii. ABP is based on the Aspirational District Programme(ADP) which has transformed the lives of
about 25 crore people in 112 districts.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q
  1. Which of the following personalities has/have recently (in Oct ‘23) awareded with the
    Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023 by the Royal Swedish Academy of Science?
    1) Svante Pääbo (Sweden)
    2) Katalin Karikó (Hungary)
    3) Drew Weissman (United States of America)
    4) Both 1 & 2
    5) Both 2 & 3
A

Answer- 5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
Katalin Karikó of Hungary and Drew Weissman of the United States of America(USA) were jointly
awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023 by the Royal Swedish Academy of
Science.
i. The Nobel Prize is awarded for their discovery concerning nucleoside base modifications that
enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.
· The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is awarded at the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska
Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
· Biochemist Katalin Karikó is currently working as a professor at the University of Szeged in
Hungary as well as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania (USA).
· Katalin Karikó is the 13th woman to win the Nobel Prize in medicine or physiology.
· Immunologist Drew Weissman is currently working as a professor at the University of
Pennsylvania (USA).
· Presently,Weissman’s team is working on using RNA to develop a single-injection gene therapy
to overcome the defect that causes sickle cell anemia.
Note- The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded 114 times to 227 Medicine laureates
including 13 women laureates, 32 Youngest laureates, and 87 Oldest laureates.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q
  1. Name the Indian Personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) became the first woman to be
    honoured the Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation (CIF).
    1) Falguni Nayar
    2) Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
    3) Sudha Murty
    4) Aditi Gupta
    5) Divya Gokulnath
A

Answer- 3) Sudha Murty
Explanation:
The renowned author and philanthropist Sudha Murty, chairperson of the Infosys Foundation,
became the first woman to be honoured the Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation
(CIF) at an Indo-Canadian gala event held in Toronto, Canada.
· The award is presented to her by Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma.
About CIF Global Indian Award:
i. The CIF Global Indian Award is the most prestigious Indo-Canadian event.
ii. Given to an outstanding individual who has helped India become a global economic and political
power.
iii. The award winner receives USD 50,000 to donate to a charity of their choice.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q
  1. In September 2023, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the
    extension of Amit Agrawal‘s tenure as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Unique
    Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) for a period of ______ year.
    1) 5
    2) 2
    3) 3
    4) 1
    5) 4
A

Answer- 4) 1
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the extension of Amit Agrawal‘s
tenure as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) for
a period of one year starting from November 2, 2023 up to November 2, 2024, or until further orders,
whichever is earlier.
i. Amit Agrawal assumed charge as the CEO of UIDAI in June 2023 following the retirement of Saurabh
Garg.
ii. At present, Amit Agrawal also serves as the Chairman of the National Digital Communications
Policy Committee.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q
  1. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the re-appointment
    of Nitin Gupta as the chairman of the _____________ (statutory authority) for a tenure of 9-
    months.
    1) Central Bureau of Narcotics
    2) Central Board of Direct Taxes
    3) Central Board of Excise and Customs
    4) Central Bureau of Investigation
    5) National Investigation Agency
A

Answer- 2) Central Board of Direct Taxes
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the re-appointment of Nitin Gupta
as the chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) for a tenure of 9-month with effect
from 1st October 2023.
· He was re-appointment on a contract basis till 30th June 2024, or until further orders,
whichever is earlier, in relaxation of the recruitment rules, on usual terms and conditions
applicable to re-employed central government officers.
· In June 2022, he was appointed as the Chairperson of CBDT following the superannuation of
Sangeeta Singh, a 1986-batch IRS officer.
· His 1st tenure as Chairperson of CBDT was from 27th June 2022 to 30th September 2023.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of Prime Minister
    (PM) of India Narendra Modi to Madhya Pradesh(MP) and Rajasthan in October 2023?
    A) In Gwalior, MP, PM laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development
    initiatives worth around Rs 19,260 crores.
    B) On 2nd october 2023, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi inaugurated the
    India’s 1st state-of-the-art sports training facility for individuals with disabilities, known as the
    Atal Bihari Training Center for Divyang Sports, in Gwalior, MP
    C) In Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, He laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development
    projects worth about Rs 7000 crore.
    1) All A, B & C
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) Only A
A

Answer- 1) All A, B & C
Explanation:
On 2nd October 2023, Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi visited Madhya Pradesh(MP) and
Rajasthan.
· In Gwalior, MP, He laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development initiatives
worth around Rs 19,260 crores.
· The Prime Minister dedicated the Delhi-Vadodara Expressway, developed at a cost of
approximately Rs. 11,895 crores.
· Grih Pravesh of over 2.2 lakh houses built under PMAY – Gramin were initiated by the Prime
Minister. He also dedicated houses constructed under PMAY – Urban at a cost of around Rs 140
crores.
· PM Modi laid the foundation stone for 9 new health centers under Ayushman Bharat Health
Infrastructure Mission. This aims to boost the health infrastructure in MP.
· On 2nd October 2023, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi inaugurated the
India’s 1st state-of-the-art sports training facility for individuals with disabilities, known as
the Atal Bihari Training Center for Divyang Sports, in Gwalior, MP
· In Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, He laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development
projects worth about Rs 7000 crore.
· Mehsana – Bhatinda – Gurdaspur Gas Pipeline: Built at a cost of about Rs. 4,500 crores.
· Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Plant of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) at
Abu Road.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the 78th session of the United
    Nations General Assembly (UNGA) held in New York City, United States of America (USA), in
    September 2023?
    A) During the UNGA Summit held in New York, Union Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar and Japanese counterpart Yōko Kamikawa reaffirmed their commitment to enhance economic
    cooperation.
    B) the I2U2 Group, consisting of India, the United States of America (USA), Iran, and the United Kingdom, launched a Private Enterprise Partnership.
    C) The United Nations – India (UN India) signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to collaborate on various initiatives.
A

1) All A, B & C
2) Only A & B
3) Only B & C
4) Only A & C
5) Only A
Answer- 4) Only A & C
Explanation:
The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) was held at the United Nations
(UN) Headquarters in New York City, USA, from September 18 to September 26, 2023. The world
leaders, Heads of State and Governments, foreign ministers, diplomats, and representatives from
member states, often called the ‘Oscars of Diplomacy‘, attended the annual high-level week.
· The theme for this event was “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating
action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity,
progress and sustainability for all. “
· On the sidelines of the 78th UNGA session, the I2U2 Group, consisting of India, the United
States of America (USA), Israel, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), launched a Private
Enterprise Partnership to increase awareness of its initiative in business communities and fund
projects aligning with its objectives.
· During the UNGA Summit held in New York, EAM S. Jaishankar and Japanese counterpart Yōko
Kamikawa, on September 22, 2023, reaffirmed their commitment to enhance economic
cooperation.
· On the sidelines of 78th UNGA, The United Nations – India (UN India) signed a Letter of Intent
(LOI) with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to collaborate on various initiatives, which
includes food security, global health, climate change and initiating a new partnership to
enhance Indian South-South Cooperation.
· The 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report(GSDR), “Times of Crisis, Times of Change:
Science for Accelerating Transformations to Sustainable Development”, is the second edition.It
will be published every four years.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q
  1. Name the organisation/Agency that has recently (in Oct ‘23) signed an MoU with World
    Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to collaborate on clean, drug-free sport.
    1) International Testing Agency
    2) National Anti-Doping Agency, India
    3) South Asia Regional Anti-Doping Organisation
    4) World Health Organisation
    5) Athletics Integrity Unit
A

Answer- 4) World Health Organisation
Explanation:
World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and World Health Organisation (WHO) have recently inked a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that enables experts from both global organisations
to work together and exchange information concerning areas where the realms of anti-doping and public health intersect.
i. The MoU was signed in Geneva, Switzerland, between WADA president Witold Banka and WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.
ii. The agreement will run until 1 October 2027 and provides a framework of cooperation between WHO and WADA to further their goals.

26
Q
  1. In October 2023, the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) entered
    into a collaboration with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to launch its first
    bi-lateral fund called India-Japan Fund (IJF) of Rs __________.
    1) 49 Billion
    2) 35 Billion
    3) 52 Billion
    4) 67 Billion
    5) 30 Billion
A

Answer- 1) 49 Billion
Explanation:
The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) has entered into a collaboration
with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to launch its first bi-lateral fund called India-
Japan Fund (IJF) of Rs 49 Billion (USD 600 million).
i. The Fund was established by NIIF Limited (NIIFL), a collaborative investment platform for
international and Indian investors. The fund is anchored by the Government of India and JBIC.
ii. Out of Rs 49 Billion, The Government of India (GoI) will contribute Rs 24 Billion (USD 294 million
(49%)) and JBIC will fund the remaining Rs 25 Billion (USD 306 million (51%)) of the funding target.
iii. JBIC’s equity participation in the Fund is based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
which was signed between JBIC and NIIFL in November 2022.

27
Q
  1. Which of the following personalities has/have been recently (in Oct ‘23) awarded with the
    2023 Nobel Prize in Physics by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences?
    1) Anne L’Huillier, France
    2) Ferenc Krausz, Hungary
    3) Pierre Agostini, France
    4) Both 1 & 2
    5) All 1, 2 & 3
A

Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
Anne L’Huillier of France, Pierre Agostini of France, and Ferenc Krausz of Hungary were awarded
the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics “for experimental methods that generate attosecond pulses of light for
the study of electron dynamics in matter.”
i. The Nobel Prize in Physics is awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Stockholm,
Sweden.
ii. Anne L’Huillier is the fifth woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Physics.
Note- The Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded 117 times to 225 laureates between 1901-2023.

28
Q
  1. Who has been recently (in Oct ‘23) named as the ‘Global Ambassador’ for the International
    Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Cricket One Day International (ODI) World Cup 2023?
    1) Mahendra Singh Dhoni
    2) Ravi Shastri
    3) Sachin Tendulkar
    4) Sourav Ganguly
    5) Kapil Dev
A

Answer- 3) Sachin Tendulkar
Explanation:
Former Indian cricket Player Sachin Tendulkar was named as the ‘Global Ambassador’ for the
International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Cricket One Day International (ODI) World Cup 2023.
i. Sachin unveils the World Cup trophy before the inaugural match between England and New Zealand
on 5th October 2023.
ii. Sachin has played six ODI World Cups including 1989, 1992, 1996, 2003, 2007, and 2011.
iii. The 13th edition of the Men’s ODI World Cup is set to be held from 5th October to 19th November
2023, comprising 48 matches across 10 venues in India. Both the inaugural and final matches are set
to be held in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
iv. Mascot: ICC announces two mascots including ‘Blaze‘(female mascot- Bowler) and ‘Tonk’ (male
mascot – Batsmen).

29
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Competition Commission
    of India (CCI) approval in October 2023?
    A) CCI has approved the acquisition of approximately 1.74% of the issued share capital on a
    fully diluted basis of Lenskart Solutions Private Limited (Target) by Kedaara Capital Fund III
    LLP (Acquirer).
    B) CCI approved the acquisition of the majority shareholding of Indira IVF Hospital Private
    Limited (Indira IVF) by Zonnebaars Netherlands B.V. and the amalgamation of Spaceway
    Wellness Private Limited with and into Indira IVF.
    C) CCI has approved the proposed acquisition of 100% shareholding of Lanco Amarkantak
    Power Limited by PFC Projects Limited, REC Limited, SJVN Limited and Damodar Valley
    Corporation.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the following acquisitions on 3rd October 2023,
· CCI has approved the acquisition of approximately 1.74% of the issued share capital on a fully
diluted basis of Lenskart Solutions Private Limited (Target) by Kedaara Capital Fund III LLP(Acquirer).
· CCI approved the acquisition of the majority shareholding of Indira IVF Hospital Private
Limited (Indira IVF) by Zonnebaars Netherlands B.V. (Zonnebaars) and the amalgamation of Spaceway Wellness Private Limited (Spaceway) with and into Indira IVF.

· CCI has approved the proposed acquisition of 100% shareholding of Lanco Amarkantak
Power Limited by PFC Projects Limited, REC Limited, SJVN Limited and Damodar Valley
Corporation.

30
Q
  1. Which of the following points is “Incorrect” with respect to the Hangzhou 2022 Asian
    Games (19th edition of Asian games) being held from September to October 2023?
    1) As of 4th October 2023, India ranks 4th in the medal tally with 74 medals (16 gold, 27 Silver and 31
    Bronze).
    2) Indian men’s 10m air rifle team, including Rudrankksh Patil, Divyansh Singh Panwar, and Aishwary
    Pratap Singh Tomar won India’s first gold medal in Asian Games 2022 with the world record score of
    1893.7 overall point tally.
    3) The Indian women’s cricket team beat Sri Lanka women by 19 runs to win the gold medal at the
    Asian Games 2022.
    4) Manpreet Kaur became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games medal (Bronze) in shot put
    event in 62 years.
    5) Indian men’s squash team including Mahesh Mangaonkar, Saurav Ghosal and Abhay Singh beat
    Pakistan in the final to win the gold medal at the men’s team squash.
A

Answer- 4) Manpreet Kaur became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games medal
(Bronze) in shot put event in 62 years.
Explanation:
The 19th edition of Asian games, officially called as ‘Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games’ is being held
from September 23 to October 8 2023 with China as the host nation.
· As of October 4 2023, India ranks 4th in the medal tally of Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games with
16 gold, 27 Silver and 31 Bronze totalling 74 medals.
· China has announced three mascots namely Chenchen, Congcong, and Lianlian, a group of three
robot mascots of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games. The trio together is called ‘Memories of
Jiangnan’ which derives its name from a poem by Bai Juyi (Chinese musician & poet).
· Indian men’s 10m air rifle team, including Rudrankksh Patil, Divyansh Singh Panwar, and
Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, scripted history by securing India’s first gold medal in Asian
Games 2022.
· They achieved this remarkable feat by setting a new world record score with an overall point
tally of 1893.7
· The Indian women’s cricket team beat Sri Lanka women by 19 runs to win the gold medal at
the Asian Games 2022. Sri Lankan team won Silver medal and Bronze went to Bangladesh.
· Kiran Baliyan became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games medal in shot put
event in 72 years. She won a bronze medal.
· Indian men’s squash team beat Pakistan by 2-1 in the final to win the gold medal at the men’s
team squash. Indian Team – Mahesh Mangaonkar, Saurav Ghosal and Abhay Singh.
· Manika Batra created history as she became the first Indian to reach the quarterfinals of the
individual table tennis event. She defeated Thailand’s Suthasini Sawettabut 4-2.

31
Q
  1. What is the theme of the United Nations (UN) World Space Week (WSW) 2023 being
    observed across the globe from 4th to 10th October 2023?
    1) Women in Space
    2) Space and Sustainability
    3) Satellites improve life
    4) Space and Entrepreneurship
    5) The Moon: Gateway to the Stars
A

Answer- 4) Space and Entrepreneurship
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN) World Space Week (WSW) is annually observed across the globe from 4th to
10th October to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the
human condition.
i. The United Nations (UN) World Space Week (WSW) is being observed from 4th to 10th October
2023 with the theme of “Space and Entrepreneurship”.
ii. The first-ever WSW was observed from 4th to 10th October 2000.
iii. In India, the World Space Week India Coordinating Committee, the National Coordinator of WSW,
organised a total of 39 events to celebrate WSW 2023, from October 4 to 10 2023 in various states
such as Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Note: WSWA began in 1980 as the coordinator of “Spaceweek,” a celebration of the first Moon landing,
each July 16-24.

32
Q
  1. When was the World Teachers’ Day (WTD) 2023 observed across the globe by the United
    Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)?
    1) 3rd October 2023
    2) 5th October 2023
    3) 2nd October 2023
    4) 4th October 2023
    5) 1st October 2023
A

Answer- 2) 5th October 2023
Explanation:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s World Teachers’
Day (WTD) 2023 was observed across the globe on 5th October 2023 with the theme of “The
teachers we need for the education we want: The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage“.
i. WTD is co-convened in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), United
Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and Education International (EI).
ii. In 1994, UNESCO declared 5th October as World Teachers’ Day to celebrate the efforts made for
teachers in 1966.
iii. The first ever World Teachers’ Day was observed on 5th October 1994.

33
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Cabinet approval in
    October 2023?
    A) The Union cabinet approved a revised cost of Rs 2,430 crore for the completion of the
    balance works of the North Koel Reservoir Project in Bihar and Jharkhand.
    B) The Union Cabinet approved amendment to the Central Universities Act, 2009 for setting up
    of Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University at Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh.
    C) Cabinet approved the terms of reference to Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II (KWDT-II)
    under Inter State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
    Answer- 4) Only A & C
A

Explanation:
On October 4th, 2023, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has
given its approval for multiple initiatives and they are as follows
· Cabinet approves Revised Cost of completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir
Project in Bihar & Jharkhand.
· In a recent development, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has granted its
endorsement to a proposal presented by the Department of Water Resources, River
Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
· This proposal aims to finalize the remaining tasks for the North Koel Reservoir Project, with an
adjusted budget of Rs. 2,430.76 crore.
· Cabinet approves setting up of Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University
· Recently, the Union Cabinet has given its approval for introduction in Parliament, a Bill,
namely, the Central Universities (Amendment), Bill, 2023.
· It aims to amend the Central Universities Act, 2009 for setting up of Sammakka Sarakka Central
Tribal University at Mulugu District, Telangana.
· There would be provision of funds of Rs. 889.07 crore.
· Cabinet approves Terms of Reference to Krishna Water Dispute Tribunal-II (KWDT-II) under
Inter State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956.
· It has been issued under section 5(1) of the ISRWD Act for its adjudication between the States
of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh (AP).
· The Centre has notified the establishment of a National Turmeric Board.
· It is aimed at increasing awareness about turmeric and potentially developing new markets to
bolster exports.

34
Q
  1. Name the University/Institute that has recently (in Oct ‘23) signed an MoU with the
    Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to advance Pradhan Mantri
    Gati Shakti (PMGS) National Master Plan (NMP).
    1) Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
    2) Institute of Urban Transport India
    3) Rashtriya Raksha University
    4) Navrachana University
    5) Central University of Andhra Pradesh
A

Answer- 1) Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya
Explanation:
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, and the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), Gujarat based central university,
have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti (PMGS)
National Master Plan (NMP).
i. The MoU aims to advance India’s infrastructure and logistics sectors.
· Under this MoU, GSV will be the nodal agency across India to design, develop and deliver
courses and curriculum related to PMGS NMP and National Logistics Policy (NLP) at various
centers in different States.
· PMGS approach will lead to reduced logistics costs, greater efficiency, and a more competitive
business ecosystem.

35
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the visit of Prime Minister
    (PM) Narendra Modi to Mahbubnagar & Nizamabad Telangana in October 2023?
    A) During PM’s visit to Mahbubnagar, He laid the foundation stone for the key road projects
    which are a part of the Nagpur – Vijayawada Economic Corridor.
    B) During his visit to Nizamabad, PM dedicated the first 800 MW Unit of Phase I of the
    Telangana Super Thermal Power Project in Peddapalli district.
    C) PM Modi laid the foundation stone for 20 Critical Care Blocks (CCBs) under the Pradhan
    Mantri – Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission(PM-ABHIM).
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 5) All A, B & C
Explanation:
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Telangana on the 1st and 3rd of October 2023.
· On 1st October 2023, he laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple
developmental projects worth more than Rs 13,500 crore in Mahbubnagar, Telangana.
· On 3rd October 2023, he laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development projects
worth Rs 8000 crores in Nizamabad, Telangana.
i. PM’s visit to Mahbubnagar, Telangana on 1st October 2023:
· PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the key road projects which are a part of the Nagpur –
Vijayawada Economic Corridor. These projects will be developed at a cost of around Rs 6400
crores.
· He dedicated the ‘Hassan-Cherlapalli LPG Pipeline Project’, connecting Hassan in Karnataka to
Cherlapalli (a suburb of Hyderabad), was developed at a cost of about Rs 2170 crore.
ii. PM’s visit to Nizamabad, Telangana on 3rd October 2023:
· PM dedicated the first 800 MW Unit of Phase I of the Telangana Super Thermal Power Project
in Peddapalli district.
· He also announced that the upcoming second unit will raise the plant’s capacity to 4,000 MW.
· PM Modi laid the foundation stone for 20 Critical Care Blocks (CCBs) under the Pradhan Mantri
– Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM).

36
Q
  1. Which country, along with India, has commenced the 11th edition of annual joint military
    exercise, SAMPRITI-XI 2023 in Umroi, Meghalaya on 3rd october 2023?
    1) Japan
    2) Sri Lanka
    3) Bangladesh
    4) Indonesia
    5) France
A

Answer- 3) Bangladesh
Explanation:
Exercise SAMPRITI-XI 2023, an annual joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh is
held in Umroi, Meghalaya, for 14 days from 3rd October to 16th October 2023.
i. This is the 11th edition of the Exercise, which strengthens India-Bangladesh defence cooperation by
promoting stronger bilateral connections, cultural understanding, and reciprocal benefits from shared
experiences.
ii. Ex SAMPRITI-XI will include a Command Post Exercise (CPX), a Field Training Exercise (FTX), and a
Validation Exercise based on the conduct of Sub-Conventional Operations as per Chapter VII of the UN
mandate.

37
Q
  1. Which bank has recently (in Oct ‘23) launched INDIE, a customer centric digital mobile
    banking application(app)?
    1) Indian Bank
    2) ICICI Bank
    3) IndusInd Bank
    4) Bank of India
    5) IDBI Bank
A

Answer- 3) IndusInd Bank
Explanation:
IndusInd Bank Limited launched INDIE, a customer centric digital mobile banking application(app),
to empower customers with an all-in-one digital financial solution. This hyper-personalized financial
super-app utilises the advanced analytics to provide personalized insights to its customers.
i. The app leverages advanced analytics to provide personalized insights to its customers such as
smart reminders, expense tracking, and spending insights..
ii. The app offers a number of industry-first features, including ultra-flexible products that can be
customized to meet specific needs of the customer.

38
Q
  1. According to India Development Update (IDU) October 2023 released by World Bank (WB)
    in October 2023, India’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP) growth is retained at _____________ for
    the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24.
    1) 6.7%
    2) 6.9%
    3) 6.5%
    4) 6.3%
    5) 6.0%
A

Answer- 4) 6.3%
Explanation:
According to India Development Update (IDU) October 2023 released by World Bank (WB), India’s
Gross Domestic Products (GDP) growth for the Financial Year 2023-24 (FY23/24) is retained at
6.3% and for FY 24/25 the growth rate will be at 6.4%.
i. India was one of the fastest-growing major economies in FY 22/23 at the rate of 7.2%. India’s growth rate was the 2nd highest among G20 countries.

ii. The report states that India’s headline inflation is expected to average 5.9% in FY 23/24. IDU
April 2023 projected India’s headline inflation to decline to an average of 5.2% in FY 23/24.
iii. Bad weather has caused inflation to increase, with headline inflation reaching 7.8% in July 2023
due to higher food prices.
Note- The India Development Update (IDU) is a companion to the South Asia Development Update
(SADU). IDU is a flagship biannual report of the World Bank on Indian economy.

39
Q
  1. Which of the following personalities has/have been awarded with the 2023 Nobel Prize in
    Chemistry by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in October 2023?
    1) Morten P. Meldal, United States of America
    2) Louis Eugene Brus, United States of America
    3) Alexey Ivanovich Ekimov, Russia
    4) Both 1 & 2
    5) Both 2 & 3
A

Answer- 5) Both 2 & 3
Explanation:
Alexey Ivanovich Ekimov of Russia, Louis Eugene Brus of the United States of America (USA), and
Moungi Gabriel Bawendi of France were awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry “for the
discovery and synthesis of quantum dots”.
· The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences,
Stockholm, Sweden.
· Alexei I. Ekimov served as Chief Scientist at Nanocrystals Technology Incorporation, New York,
NY, USA.
· Louis E. Brus is currently working as a Professor at Columbia University, New York, USA.
· Moungi G. Bawendi is currently working as a Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Note- Totally 8 women chemistry laureates were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry out of 192
individuals.
· Only 2 of these 8 women, Marie Curie and Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin, were awarded unshared
chemistry prizes.

40
Q
  1. In October 2023, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet(ACC) extended the tenure of
    Dinesh Kumar Khara as the Chairman of the ___________ (Bank) until 28th August 2024.
    1) Bank of Baroda
    2) Indian Bank
    3) Punjab National Bank
    4) Bank of India
    5) State Bank of India
A

Answer- 5) State Bank of India
Explanation:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has extended the tenure of the Chairman of the
State Bank of India (SBI) Dinesh Kumar Khara till 28th August 2024 or till he attains the age of 63
years, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
i. He has been serving as the chairman of SBI since 7th October 2020. His 3 year tenure ended on 6th October 2023.
ii. ACC has also extended the tenure of Ashwini Kumar Tewari as the Managing Director(MD) of SBI
for 2 years beyond January 27, 2024.
Note: Currently, the retirement age for the SBI chairman is capped at 63. Khara will turn 63 in August
2024

41
Q
  1. Which of the following points is/are “correct” with respect to the Geographical Indication
    (GI) tags granted by the Geographical Indications Registry in October 2023?
    A) The Geographical Indications Registry has recently awarded geographical indication (GI)
    tags to a collective of 8 distinct products.
    B) Khamti rice, Yak churpi from Tawang, and Tangsa textile from Arunachal Pradesh obtained
    GI Tag.
    C) Udangudi Panangkarupatti, a specific type of palm jaggery originating from Telangana
    obtained GI Tag.
    1) Only A
    2) Only A & B
    3) Only B & C
    4) Only A & C
    5) All A, B & C
A

Answer- 2) Only A & B
Explanation:
The Geographical Indications Registry, operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in
Chennai, has recently awarded geographical indication (GI) tags to a collective of 8 distinct products.
Among these, 3 originate from Arunachal Pradesh, 1 from Tamil Nadu, 2 from Jammu and Kashmir, 1
from Odisha, and 1 from Goa.
· Arunachal Pradesh has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining GI tags for 3 distinct
products: Khamti rice, Yak churpi from Tawang, and Tangsa textile.
· Udangudi Panangkarupatti, a specific type of palm jaggery or “gur” originating from
Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu.
· Basohli Pashmina, a traditional hand-spun Pashmina craft from Kathua district, J&K, obtained
the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
· Kaladi is a popular Dogra cuisine with its origins in Udhampur district’s Ramnagar.
· Rasabali is a mouthwatering delicacy originating from the 262-year-old Baladevjew temple in
Ichhapur, on the outskirts of Kendrapara town.
· Goa Cashew (Kaju Or Caju) results from the overall climatological impact of Goa and traditional
farming practices followed by Goans. It is the 10th product of the state to get the coveted GI tag.

42
Q
  1. Which country has recently (in Oct ‘23) signed two MoUs with India in ocean sciences and
    medical product regulation?
    1) France
    2) Dominican Republic
    3) Brazil
    4) Ecuador
    5) Peru
A

Answer- 2) Dominican Republic
Explanation:
India and Dominican Republic have signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in ocean
sciences and medical product regulation.
i. The 2 MoUs were signed between,
· Central Drug Control Organization of India (CDSCO) and the General Directorate of Medicines,
Food, and Health Products of the Dominican Republic (DIGEMAPS).
· The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, National Institute of Oceanography of India
(CSIR–NIO) and the National Authority for Maritime Affairs of the Dominican Republic
(ANAMAR).
ii. The MoUs were signed during a high level political dialogue between Raquel Pena Rodriguez, the
Vice President of the Dominican Republic, and India’s Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in New Delhi,
Delhi.
iii. The meeting was a part of the 3 day official visit of Raquel Peña Rodríguez to India from 3rd to 5th
October 2023.

43
Q
  1. Which of the following points is ‘Incorrect’ with respect to the 4th Bi-Monthly Monetary
    Policy statement for FY24 released by RBI in October 2023?
    1) The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has opted to keep the policy
    repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 6.50% for the 4th time in a row.
    2) The Reverse Repo Rate and the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate are kept unchanged at 3.35%
    & 6.75% respectively.
    3) The Bank Rate is kept unchanged at 6.25%.
    4) India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is projected at 6.5 per cent for 2023-24.
    5) RBI projects that Inflation is expected to average 5.4% in the fiscal year 2023–2024.
A

Answer- 3) The Bank Rate is kept unchanged at 6.25%.
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its fourth bi-monthly monetary policy. The RBI Governor
Shaktikanta Das-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on October 4-6, 2023, decided to
keep the rates and stance unchanged.
· Policy Repo Rate: For the 4th time in a row, the MPC has opted to keep the policy repo rate
under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 6.50%.
· The last adjustment to this rate was a 25-basis point increase to 6.50% during the February 2023 meeting.

· The MPC provided projections for real gross domestic product (GDP) growth projected at 6.5%
for the fiscal year 2023-24.
· RBI projects that Inflation is expected to average 5.4% in the fiscal year 2023-2024, which
remained unchanged. Additionally, the target for economic growth remains at 6.5% for the same period.

44
Q
  1. Name the bank/organisation that has recently (in Oct ‘23) approved a USD 200 million loan
    to strengthen flood and riverbank erosion risk management in Assam, India.
    1) World Bank
    2) Asian Development Bank
    3) United Nations Environment Programme
    4) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
    5) African Development Bank
A

Answer- 2) Asian Development Bank
Explanation:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 200 million loan to strengthen flood and
riverbank erosion risk management along the 650-kilometer (km) long main stem of the Brahmaputra
River in Assam, India.
i. The Project activities will be led, managed, and coordinated by the Flood and River Erosion
Management Agency of the Assam Government.
ii. The Water Resources Department of the Government of Assam will implement the works and the
Assam Agroforestry Development Board will use nature-based solutions.
iii. The Brahmaputra Board, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, and the Assam Inland
Water Transport Development Society will be partner agencies of the project.

45
Q
  1. Which company has recently (in Oct ‘23) launched a mobile app for 54EC Bonds Investors?
    1) REC Limited
    2) Power Grid Corporation of India
    3) Indian Railway Finance Corporation
    4) Power Finance Corporation Limited
    5) Indian Oil Corporation Limited
A

Answer- 1) REC Limited
Explanation:
REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) launched SUGAM REC, a mobile
app for its current and future investors in REC’s 54EC Capital Gain Tax Exemption Bonds.
· REC Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise(CPSE) under the Ministry of
Power.
i. SUGAM REC offers the ability to view complete details of their investment in REC 54EC Bonds,
including the investment amount, interest rate, and maturity date.
ii. Section 54EC bonds, also known as Capital gain bonds, are fixed income instruments which provide
capital gains tax exemption.

46
Q
  1. According to the Controller General of Accounts(CGA) data released in October 2023,
    India’s fiscal deficit for the tenure April to August of the financial year 2023-24 (FY24) is at Rs
    _________ , 36% of the FY24 target.
    1) 4.90 trillion
    2) 6.42 trillion
    3) 4.62 trillion
    4) 5.89 trillion
    5) 5.24 trillion
A

Answer- 2) 6.42 trillion
Explanation:
According to the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), India’s fiscal deficit for the tenure April to
August of the financial year 2023-24 (FY24) is at Rs 6.42 trillion. This is 36% of the full-year target
of Rs 17.87 trillion.
· In the same period of FY 2022-23, the fiscal deficit was Rs 5.42 trillion, or 32.6% of the FY23
target Rs16.61 trillion.
i. The fiscal deficit widened mainly because the government spent more on capital expenditure (due
to lower tax devolution to state governments) and government’s increase in non-tax revenues.
ii. The government aims to reduce the fiscal deficit to 5.9% of the gross domestic product (GDP) for
fiscal year 2024.

47
Q
  1. Name the personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) been awarded with the Nobel Prize in
    Literature 2023.
    1) Peter Handke (Austria)
    2) Annie Ernaux (France)
    3) Abdulrazak Gurnah (Tanzania)
    4) Louise Glück (United States of America)
    5) Jon Olav Fosse (Norway)
A

Answer- 5) Jon Olav Fosse (Norway)
Explanation:
Jon Olav Fosse of Norway was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature 2023 “for his innovative
plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable”. Fosse is the 4th Norwegian writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.

· The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences,
Stockholm, Sweden.
i. Jon Olav Fosse writes in Nynorsk, one of the two official written versions of the Norwegian language,
the other being Bokmaal. Fosse was the first Nynorsk writer in nearly a century to win the Nobel Prize
in Literature.
ii. Indian Nobel Prize laureates in literature: In 1913, Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned Indian
poet, musician, and painter, became the first Indian and the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize. He was
awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature 1913.
Note- The other Norwegian winners of Nobel Prize in Literature are Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1903),
Knut Hamsun(1920) and Sigrid Undset (1928).

48
Q
  1. In October 2023, India was re-elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for
    Broadcasting Development (AIBD) General Conference (GC) for the ________ successive term.
    1) 2nd
    2) 5th
    3) 3rd
    4) 6th
    5) 4th
A

Answer- 3) 3rd
Explanation:
India has been re-elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development
(AIBD) General Conference (GC) for the 3rd successive term. Previously India served as President of
AIBD GC in 2018-2021 and 2021 to 2023.
· India is set to lead the international organisation and will leverage itself as the broadcasting
and media hub across the Asia Pacific.
· Mayank Kumar Agrawal, Director General, Doordarshan is the president of AIBD GC.
· The AIBD GC and its Associated Meetings is the annual official gathering of AIBD.
· The GC is open to member countries, affiliates, partners, observers, and leading broadcasters
by invitation only.
· The 48th Annual Gathering / 21st AIBD General Conference and Associated Meetings 2023,
was held at Balaclava, Mauritius from 2nd to 4th October 2023.

49
Q
  1. When was World Cotton Day (WCD) 2023 observed across the globe by the United Nations
    (UN) with the theme of “Making cotton fair and sustainable for all, from farm to fashion”?
    1) 5th October 2023
    2) 3rd October 2023
    3) 6th October 2023
    4) 4th October 2023
    5) 7th October 2023
A

Answer- 5) 7th October 2023
Explanation:
The United Nations (UN)’s World Cotton Day (WCD) 2023 was observed across the globe on 7th
October 2023 with the theme of “Making cotton fair and sustainable for all, from farm to fashion”.
· 7th October 2023 marks the observance of the 5th World Cotton Day.

· The World Trade Organization (WTO) hosted the first World Cotton Day on 7 October 2019 in
response to an initiative of Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mali, collectively known as the
Cotton Four or C4 countries.
i. The WCD 2023 celebration took place on 4th October 2023 at the Vienna International Centre in
Austria.
ii. It is jointly hosted by Secretariats of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization
(UNIDO) and FAO.

50
Q
  1. Name the State that has recently (in Oct ‘ 23) announced the formation of 3 new districts-
    Malpura, Sujangarh, and Kuchaman City.
    1) Punjab
    2) Rajasthan
    3) Jharkhand
    4) Maharashtra
    5) Madhya Pradesh
A

Answer- 2) Rajasthan
Explanation:
Rajasthan Chief Minister (CM), Ashok Gehlot, announced the formation of 3 new districts: Malpura,
Sujangarh, and Kuchaman City in Rajasthan during the Gau Seva Sammelan in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
With the addition of the 3 districts, the total number of districts in Rajasthan has now reached 53.
i. Kuchaman City was included in the 19 districts announced in March 2023 named Deedwana-
Kuchaman.
· Formerly a part of Nagaur, the region of Deedwana-Kuchaman has been designated as a new
district. Now Kuchaman City has been established as a separate district.
ii. Sujangarh, currently within Churu district and Malpura, within Tonk district, are also set to become
new districts.
iii. The demarcation and establishment of these new districts will be a collaborative effort between
the Ramlubhaya Committee, which recommended their formation, and the revenue department.
· Ramlubhaya Committee was constituted on 21st March 2022 to study the feasibility of new
districts.

51
Q
  1. The High-Speed Craft (HSC) Cheriyapani commenced its trial run from Nagapattinam port
    Tamil Nadu, India to Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka on 8th October 2023.
    The HSC Cheriyapani is owned by the ______________.
    1) Sagarmala Development Company Limited
    2) Shipping Corporation of India
    3) Cochin Shipyard Limited
    4) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
    5) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
A

Answer- 2) Shipping Corporation of India
Explanation:
The High-Speed Craft (HSC) Cheriyapani, owned by the Shipping Corporation of India, and a 14-member crew arrived at Nagapattinam. The vessel commenced its trial run from Nagapattinam port, Tamil Nadu, India on 8th October 2023 and took roughly three hours to reach Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka, which is roughly 60 nautical miles away.

52
Q
  1. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) celebrated its ____________ Annual Day
    on 1st October 2023.
    1) 8th
    2) 7th
    3) 9th
    4) 5th
    5) 6th
A

Answer- 2) 7th
Explanation:
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) celebrated its Seventh Annual Day on 1st
October 2023 with Justice Shri Ashok Bhushan, Chairperson, National Company Law Appellate
Tribunal presiding over the occasion as the Chief Guest.
· As part of the Annual Day celebrations, IBBI released an annual publication, “IBC: Evolution,
Learnings and Innovation”. This publication offers a multifaceted perspective on the origin of
the IBC, judicial interpretations, practical implementation, institutions under the IBC,
technological improvements, learnings from real word case studies and potential next
generation reforms. It is a collection of 31 thought-provoking articles.
· A research publication, “Navdrishti: Emerging Ideas on IBC” was also released. This publication
is a compact collection of research papers from leading academicians and practitioners in the
field of insolvency and bankruptcy, presented at the 2nd International Research Conference on
Insolvency and Bankruptcy held in association with IIM Bangalore (IIMB) at their campus from 23rd to 25th February, 2023.

53
Q
  1. Name the defence sector of India that has recently (in Sept ‘23) collaborated with the
    Ministry of Women and Child Development to organise a cross-country bike expedition with
    “Yashaswini” to celebrate women power.
    1) Border Security Force
    2) Indian Army
    3) Assam Rifles
    4) Indo-Tibetan Border Police
    5) Central Reserve Police Force
A

Answer- 5) Central Reserve Police Force
Explanation:
The Central Reserve Police Force, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child Development, is organising a cross-country bike expedition with “Yashaswini” a group of CRPF
women bikers to celebrate women power or Nari Shakti of the country.
· On the 3rd of October, 2023, a total of 150 women CRPF officers, divided into three teams, will embark on a cross-country rally. Riding 75 Royal Enfield (350cc) motorbikes, these teams will start their journeys from the Northern (Srinagar), Eastern (Shillong), and Southern (Kanyakumari) regions of India.
· Finally, they will all converge at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar(Kevadia), Gujarat for the
grand finale scheduled to take place on the 31st of October, 2023. The rally will cover approximately 10,000 km, passing through 15 states and 2 Union Territories.
· Throughout their respective journeys, in many districts en route various events have been planned, including interactions with the target groups of “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” (BBBP) like
school children and college girls, women self-help groups, cadets of the NCC, children of CCIs, NYKS members, adolescent girls & boys, anganwadi workers etc. and felicitation of BBBP
Champions.

54
Q
  1. Name the personality who has recently (in Oct ‘23) took over charge as the new Secretary
    of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
    1) Abhay Karandikar
    2) Praveen Sharma
    3) Rajesh Gokhale
    4) Vineet Jain
    5) Ajay Kumar
A

Answer- 1) Abhay Karandikar
Explanation:
Professor Abhay Karandikar, the former Director of IIT Kanpur took over charge as the new
Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) from Dr Rajesh Gokhale.
i. Professor Karandikar is an electrical engineer, well known for his contributions to the
telecommunications sector of the country.
ii. He developed the concept of “Frugal 5G Network” to enable affordable rural broadband connectivity and contributed to telecom policy and regulations that were included in national-level
telecom policies.

55
Q
  1. In October 2023, Reserve Bank of India announced its core banking solution for the
    government, e-Kuber will be functional on _____________.
    1) 30th April 2024
    2) 1st May 2024
    3) 31st March 2024
    4) 1st January 2024
    5) 1st April 2024
A

Answer- 3) 31st March, 2024
Explanation:
Reserve Bank of India’s core banking solution for the government e-Kuber will be functional on
March 31, 2024. Usually e-Kuber is not operational on holidays like January 26 (Republic Day),
August 15 (Independence Day), and October 2 (Gandhi Jayanti), all second and fourth Saturdays of every month and on all Sundays.
i. The office of Controller General of Accounts, Government of India has advised that in order to account for all the government transactions relating to receipts and payments in the financial year 2023-24 itself, it has been decided that March 31, 2024 (Sunday) be marked as a working day for such transactions.

56
Q

. Which of the following countries is set to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, as of October
2023?
1) Spain
2) Morocco
3) Portugal
4) Both 1 & 2
5) All 1, 2 & 3

A

Answer- 5) All 1, 2 & 3
Explanation:
The Fédération internationale de football association (FIFA) Council unanimously agreed that the sole
candidacy will be the combined bid of Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, which will host the event in
2030 and qualify automatically from the existing slot allocation subject to the completion of a
successful bidding process conducted by FIFA and a decision by the FIFA Congress in 2024.

57
Q

. Which country, along with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) has recently (in Oct ‘23) launched a project to prepare for artificial
intelligence (AI) supervision?
1) Netherlands
2) France
3) Germany
4) Switzerland
5) Greece

A

Answer- 1) Netherlands
Explanation:
The Netherlands and the United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
launched a project to help prepare Europe’s national agencies to supervise artificial intelligence (AI).
i. The project, undertaken with support of the European Commission, comes ahead of the passage of
the AI Act, the broad legislation that is expected to govern AI use in Europe.

58
Q
  1. In October 2023, India won the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19
    Championship 2023 by defeating _______ (country) held at the Dashrath Rangasala Stadium in
    Kathmandu, Nepal.
    1) Bangladesh
    2) Nepal
    3) Pakistan
    4) Bhutan
    5) Sri Lanka
A

Answer- 3) Pakistan
Explanation:
India won the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Championship 2023 after defeating
Pakistan 3-0 in a dominating display in the finals at the Dashrath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu,
Nepal. Manglenthang Kipgen and Gwgwmsar Goyary scored for India.

59
Q
  1. In October 2023, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant announced that Goa is set to host
    the 37th edition of the National Games, featuring a record-breaking _______ sporting disciplines.
    1) 39
    2) 43
    3) 49
    4) 52
    5) 60
A

Answer- 2) 43
Explanation:
Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and the State Sports Minister revealed that Goa is set to make
history by hosting the 37th edition of the National Games, featuring a record-breaking 43 sporting
disciplines.
i. The event promises to be a celebration of athletic prowess, camaraderie, and is to feature the
introduction of several exciting sports disciplines.
ii. Compared to the previous edition in Gujarat, which featured 36 disciplines, and Kerala’s 2015
edition with 33, this year’s National Games will be the largest ever.
iii. The Olympic-style multisport event will witness participation from 28 states and 8 union
territories and is scheduled to take place from October 26th to November 9th.
iv. The 37th National Games will mark the debut of several new sports disciplines on the medal stage,
including beach football, roll ball, golf, sepaktakraw,Sqay martial arts, Kalliyarapattu, and pencak
silat.

60
Q
  1. Name the company that has recently (in Oct ‘ 23) signed an MoU with the Northern Region
    Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute (NRFMTTI) to encourage skill development
    among the youth.
    1) Bajaj Auto Limited
    2) Hyundai Motor Company
    3) Tata Motors Limited
    4) Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd
    5) Maruti Suzuki India Limited
A

Answer- 4) Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd
Explanation:
The Northern Region Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute (NRFMTTI), Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India based in Hisar, Haryana, has signed Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with one of India’s foremost manufacturers of tractors and agricultural
machinery Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra.
i. The strategic partnership aims to foster skill development among the youth, equipping them with
the necessary expertise for a career in the field of farm mechanization.
ii. The MoU outlines a collaborative effort to offer comprehensive training programs that will prepare
young individuals for the challenges and opportunities in the agricultural machinery industry.
iii. The primary objective of this partnership is to bridge the gap between industry requirements and
the skill sets possessed by the youth, ultimately strengthening the workforce in the farm mechanization sector.

October 2023 (9 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2024 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions