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General Awareness January 2019 Quiz

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General Awareness January 2019 Quiz

shape Introduction

General Awareness is an important component for qualifying most of the competitive exams for employment in the government sector in India including, but not limited to, Banking, SSC, UPSC, Railways Insurance, etc. GA section holds critical importance for the Personal Interviews, Descriptive Tests & Group Discussions of the selection process of several Government sector jobs in India. The following chapter, General Awareness January 2019 Quiz has been designed keeping in view the significant role of General Awareness sections in the scoring of competitive exams.

shape Quiz

1. Who has been appointed as the ([latex]1^{st}[/latex]) Chief Justice of Telangana High Court?
Answer: Justice T B N Radhakrishnan
Explanation : The Telangana High Court and Andhra Pradesh High Court have come into being on January 1, 2019. Justice T B N Radhakrishnan was sworn in as the first Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court. Justice Praveen Kumar has been appointed as the acting Chief Justice of Andhra Pradesh High Court.
2. Which city will host the International Sweet Festival 2019?
Answer: Hyderabad
Explanation : The annual International Sweet Festival will be held in Hyderabad at Parade Grounds, Secunderabad from January 13, 2019. The second edition of the 3 day long festival will coincide with kite festival Makar Sankranti and will conclude on January 15, 2019.
3. Who has been appointed to the post of Secretary at Competition Commission of India (CCI)?
Answer: Pramod Kumar Singh
Explanation : Pramod Kumar Singh has been appointed to the post of Secretary at Competition Commission of India (CCI).
4. Kader Khan who passed away recently was a veteran ____________
Answer: Actor
Explanation : Veteran actor-writer Kader Khan passed away in Canada on 31 December after prolonged illness. He was 81.
5. Who has been sworn in as the Chairman of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB)?
Answer: Saurabh Kumar
Explanation :Saurabh Kumar has been appointed as the Director General of Ordnance Factories (DGOF) and Chairman of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).
6. When is the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Day celebrated?
Answer: January 1
Explanation : Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Day: January 1
7. Who has taken over as the President of NALSA to succeed Justice Madan B Lokur?
Answer:Justice AK Sikri
Explanation : President Ram Nath Kovind has nominated Justice AK Sikri as Executive Chairman of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) with effect from December 31, 2018.
8. The government has extended the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) for Middle Income Group (MIG) till ____________
Answer: 31 March 2020
Explanation :The Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) for Middle Income Group (MIG) Scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) has been extended by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs till 31 March 2020.
9. Name the new MD & CEO of the Axis Bank who took charge with effect from January 1, 2019?
Answer: Amitabh Chaudhry
Explanation : Shikha Sharma, the Managing Director and CEO of Axis Bank, retired from the services of the bank on 31 December 2018. She has been succeeded by Amitabh Chaudhry to the post with effect from January 1, 2019. He will remain in office till December 31, 2021.
10. After 6 months of ban, RBI has allowed Paytm Payments Bank to restart opening accounts of its customers effective from ____________
Answer: 31 December 2018
Explanation: Paytm Payments Bank has received the permission from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to restart opening accounts for its customers from 31 December 2018.
1. What is the new target set by the government to achieve complete household electrification under Saubhagya scheme?
Answer: January 26
Explanation: The Center has set a new target for the achievement of complete household electrification across the country, as has missed its December 31 deadline. The new deadline is January 26, 2019.
2. RBI has decided to permit one-time restructuring of existing loans to MSMEs amounting to a maximum of _____________
Answer: Rs 25 crore
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a set of guidelines on restructuring of loans to the MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) sector on January 1, 2019. The total fund and non-fund based exposure of banks and NBFCs to the borrower should not exceed Rs 25 crore as on January 1, 2019.
3. Which country has recently officially quit the UNESCO?
Answer: US & Israel
Explanation: The United States and Israel has officially quit the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) accusing the agency for anti-Israel bias.
4. Who has been appointed as the new President of Brazil?
Answer: Jair Bolsonaro
Explanation: Jair Messias Bolsonaro has been sworn in as the President of Brazil on 1 January 2019. He succeeds Michel Temer.
5. Name the first ever Indian- American who has been appointed as the Fort Bend County Judge in Texas recently?
Answer: KP George
Explanation: Indian-American KP George has been sworn in as the Fort Bend County Judge, becoming the first person from the community to hold the office of one of America’s most diverse counties. KP George (53), a Democratic Fort Bend County Commissioners Court Judge in Texas, was elected to the office on November 6, 2018. He took charge from January 1, 2019.
6. Under the new set of guidelines on restructuring of loans to the MSME by RBI, the restructuring has to be implemented by ________________
Answer: March 31, 2020
Explanation: The restructuring has to be implemented by March 31, 2020. Banks need to make a provision of 5% in addition to the provisions already held in respect of accounts restructured under these instructions.
7. Who has taken over as the new Chairman of the Railway Board in the Ministry of Railways?
Answer: Vinod Kumar Yadav
Explanation: Vinod Kumar Yadav has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Railway Board (Ministry of Railways). He succeeds Ashwani Lohani who completed his tenure on 31 December 2018.
8. Well known sports personality Ramakant Achrekar who died recently was related to which sports?
Answer: Cricket
Explanation: Ramakant Achrekar, the celebrated cricket coach credited for discovering Sachin Tendulkar passed away at 87.
9. Who has been sworn in as the acting Chairman of the Life Insurance Corporation of India?
Answer: Hemant Bhargava
Explanation: The government has appointed Hemant Bhargava as the Acting Chairman of Life Insurance Corporation of India. He was the Managing Director of LIC.
10. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO was founded in which year?
Answer: 1945
1. Who will head the expert committee on MSME to be formed by RBI to suggest reforms in the Sector?
Answer: U.K. Sinha
Explanation: RBI will constitute an Expert Committee on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises that will be headed by Shri U.K. Sinha (Former Chairman, Securities and Exchange Board of India). It has 8 members including Sinha.
2. Which city will host the Conference on India Pharma 2019 and India Medical Device 2019?
Answer: Bengaluru
Explanation: The 4th edition of INDIA PHARMA 2019 and INDIA MEDICAL DEVICE 2019 will be held on 18-19 February 2019, in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The theme for India Pharma 2019 is ‘Enabling Quality Affordable Healthcare’ while that of India Medical Device 2019 is ‘Med-Tech India: Gearing up for Ayushman Bharat’.
3. Name the largest asset management company (AMC) in India
Answer: HDFC Mutual Fund
Explanation: HDFC Mutual Fund has pipped ICICI Prudential MF to become the country’s largest asset management company (AMC) after a gap of over two years.
4. Indian-origin Dhruv Manoj, who has won the gold medal at the World Memory Championship in Hong Kong, hails from which country?
Answer: Singapore
Explanation: An Indian-origin student Dhruv Manoj from Singapore won two gold medals at the World Memory Championships held in Hong Kong from December 20-22, 2018. The 12-year-old won in the “names and faces” and “random words” disciplines, beating 56 other contestants in the “kids category”.
5. The 106th edition of the Indian Science Congress has been organised in which city?
Answer: Jalandhar
Explanation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 106th edition of the Indian Science Congress at the Lovely Professional University in Jalandhar on January 3, 2019. The theme of the 2018 event is ‘Future India: Science and Technology’.
6. Under the share swap ratio announced for the proposed merger of Dena, Vijaya with BoB, will enable shareholders of Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank to receive ________ and __________equity shares respectively of BoB for every 1,000 shares they hold.
Answer: 110 and 402
Explanation: For every 1,000 equity shares of Vijaya Bank investors will get 402 equity shares of Bank of Baroda. For every 1,000 equity shares of Dena Bank investors will get 110 equity shares of Bank of Baroda.
7. The Veer Savarkar International Airport, which has recently been declared as an authorised immigration check post, is in which state/UT?
Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explanation: The central government has designated the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair of Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands as an authorized immigration check post for entry into/exit from India with valid travel documents for all classes of passengers.
8. The Indian Panorama Film Festival 2018 will be held in which city?
Answer: New Delhi
Explanation: The Indian Panorama Film Festival will be organized from 4 to 13 January, 2019 in New Delhi. The ten-day Festival is being organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
9. The ‘Krishi Krishak Bandhu’ scheme of the West Bengal government will provide a life insurance cover of how much amount to the families in case of death of a working farmer?
Answer: Rs 2 lakh
Explanation: The state government of West Bengal has announced two initiatives under the ‘Krishi Krishak Bandhu’ scheme to provide financial assistance to the farmers. The first programme will give an annual financial assistance of Rs 5,000 per acre in two installments (Rs 2,500) – one during kharif and another during rabi – for a single crop. Farmers can take the financial assistance at one go too. Under the second programme, life insurance cover of Rs. 2 lakh will be given in case of death (irrespective of the cause) of an earning farmer aged between 18 and 60 years.
10. Dibyendu Palit who died recently was a veteran__________
Answer: Writer
Explanation: Renowned Bengali writer and Sahitya Akademi awardee Dibyendu Palit passed away at the age of 79. He was conferred the Sahitya Akademi for his novel ‘Anubhab’ in 1998.
1. ICICI Bank and Small Business Fin Credit have collaborated to provide loan facility of up to ________ to MSMEs
Answer: Rs 1 crore
Explanation: ICICI Bank and Small Business Fin Credit will jointly provide loans worth up to Rs 1 crore to the small and medium enterprises.It is the first-of-its-kind programme by a bank and an NBFC with the loans of up to Rs 1 crore is for a tenure of 15 years per customer.
2. When is the World Braille Day observed?
Answer: January 4
Explanation: World Braille Day is observed in order to raise awareness of the importance of braille as a means of communication in the full realization of the human rights for blind and partially sighted people.
3. All the food businesses have to comply with the new food packaging regulations of FSSAI that prohibits use of recycled plastics and newspapers to wrap eatables effective from___________
Answer: 1 July 2019
Explanation: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India FSSAI has directed all food businesses to comply with new packaging regulations that bar use of recycled plastics and newspapers to wrap food articles by July 1, 2019.
4. Which Indian state has topped the ACI’s Ease of Doing Business index 2018?
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
Explanation: Andhra Pradesh emerged on top of Asia Competitiveness Institute (ACI), Singapore’s 2018 Ease of Doing Business (EDB) Index ABC rankings for economies of 21 states of India.
5. Prakash Rele who passed away recently was a renowned international player of____________
Answer: Carrom
Explanation: Former international carrom player and administrator Prakash Rele at 78. Rele was also an international carrom umpire.
6. The 6th ‘Women of India Organic Festival’ will be held in which city?
Answer: Chandigarh
Explanation: The Ministry of Women and Child Development will be hosting the 6th ‘Women of India Organic Festival’ from 12th to 14th January, 2019, at Leisure Valley in Chandigarh.
7. PM Modi recently inaugurated the Dolaithabi Barrage Project in which state?
Answer: Manipur
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated eight key development projects and laid the foundation stones for four schemes in Manipur. The overall cost is around Rs 1500 crore. Some of the projects are: Integrated Check Post at Moreh (Rs 125 crore), Dolaithabi Barrage Project, the FCI Food Storage Godown at Sawombung.
8. The foundation stone of Mandal Dam project has been laid in which state by PM Modi recently?
Answer: Jharkhand
Explanation: The Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi was on a day long visit to Palamu, Jharkhand on 5 January 2019 to inaugurate six irrigation projects. He laid the foundation stone of Rs 2,391.36 crore Mandal Dam project that will be built on North Koel river under Barwadih block in Latehar district. The work on Mandal dam began in 1972, but has been stalled since 1993.
9. Who is the author of the book “A Crusade against corruption”?
Answer: Manohar Manoj
Explanation: A book titled “A Crusade against corruption” that is authored by Manohar Manoj was launched. It was launched by Vice-Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Harivansh Narayan Singh.
10. Center has amalgamated which 3 RRBs to form a single rural lender with effect from January 1, 2019.
Answer: Punjab Gramin Bank, Malwa Gramin Bank and Sutlej Gramin Bank
Explanation: The government has amalgamated three Regional Rural Banks — Punjab Gramin Bank, Malwa Gramin Bank and Sutlej Gramin Bank — into a single RRB with effect from January 1.
1. Name the first ever businessman to be declared as Fugitive Economic Offenders by the Government of India?
Answer: Vijay Mallya
Explanation: Vijay Mallya has become the first businessman to be declared FEO under the provisions of the new Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018.A special court in Mumbai has declared absconding Vijay Mallya a fugitive economic offender (FEO) on a plea of the Enforcement Directorate.
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the conservation and development of Rasika Ray Temple in which state?
Answer: Odisha
Explanation: Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited Baripada, in Odisha on January 5, 2019 where he inaugurated and laid foundation stone of several projects worth around Rs 5,399 crore. Conservation and development of Rasika Ray Temple, and Excavated Structure at Ancient Fort Haripurgarh.
3. The Organics and Millets-2019 International Trade Fair will be held in which city?
Answer: Bengaluru
Explanation: The Organics and Millets-2019 International Trade Fair will be held from 18th to 20th January 2019 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This is the second edition of the event.
4. What is the theme of the 27th edition of the World Book Fair 2019?
Answer: Books for Readers with Special Needs
Explanation: Union Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar inaugurated the 27th edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair 2019 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi on January 05, 2019. Guest of Honour/Guest Participants: Sharjah, UAE. Guest of Honour for the event: Mr Ahmad bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman, Sharjah Book Authority. Theme of the event: ‘Books for Readers with Special Needs’.
5. The Atal Solar Krishi Pump Yojana (ASKP) has been launched by which state?
Answer: Maharashtra
Explanation: Maharashtra Government has announced freebies for farmers that enroll for its Atal Solar Krishi Pump Yojana (ASKP). It includes two LED bulbs, a DC fan and a mobile charging socket as freebies.
6. The 8th edition of the International Marathon will be held in which city?
Answer: Vadodara
Explanation: Vadodara, Gujarat will to host the eighth international marathon on January 06, 2019. Over one lakh participants have registered themselves for the event that will be flagged off by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
7. Who has been appointed as the Chairman of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (AIGJDC)?
Answer: Anantha Padmanabhan
Explanation: Anantha Padmanabhan, has been elected as the Chairman of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (AIGJDC) for a period of two years.
8. The Ministry of Human Resource Development has introduced a new Grading Index to assess the quality of school education offered by states. This grading index will be based on how many parameters?
Answer: 70
Explanation: The Ministry of Human Resource Development has introduced a 70-point grading index to assess the quality of school education offered by states.Under the initiative, the states will be marked out of 1,000 scores on 70 parameters to assess areas of deficiency in each state’s school education system so that necessary actions can be made at every level from pedagogy to teacher training.
9. The government has revised the interest rates on 1 year time deposit small savings schemes for first quarter of 2019 to__________ percent.
Answer: 7.0%
10. Who has been appointed as the Asian Continental Assistant to World Chess Federation (FIDE) President?
Answer: Viswanathan Anand
Explanation: Indian Chess Grand Master Viswanathan Anand has been appointed as Asia’s Continental Assistant to World Chess Federation (FIDE) President Arkady Dvorkovic.
1. Who will head the nine-member high-level committee formed by the government to look into the implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord?
Answer: M P Bezbarauah
Explanation: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has formed a nine-member high-level committee to look into the implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord. The committee is headed by retired IAS officer MP Bezbarauah.
2. Who has won the Hop man Cup 2019 in men’s single event?
Answer: Roger Federer
Explanation: The Switzerland defeated Germany to win the Hop man Cup 2019 of Tennis. Mens Single– Roger Federer of Switzerland defeated Alexander Zverev of Germany. (Switzerland 1 point; Germany 0 point)
3. The IMD has recently issued orange alert in Andaman & Nicobar Island to deal with which cyclonic storms?
Answer: Cyclone Pabuk
Explanation: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange alert for the Andaman Islands in view of Cyclonic Storm Pabuk.
4. Who has clinched the Qatar Open 2019 in men’s single category event?
Answer: Roberto Bautista Agut
Explanation: Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain defeated Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic 6-4, 3-6, 6- 3 to win the the Qatar Open final 2019.
5. To help the default farmers of the state, Madhya Pradesh government has extended the cut-off date for farm loan waiver from March 31 to December 12, 2018. The state will provide waiver of loan amounting to Rs __________ under the scheme
Answer: Rs 2 lakh
Explanation: The Madhya Pradesh cabinet has approved a farm loan waiver scheme under which dues of farmers worth Rs 2 lakh would be waived in the state. The cabinet has extended the cut-off date for farm loan waiver from March 31 to December 12, 2018. farm loan defaulters from April 1, 2007 are included under the ambit of the scheme.
6. Who has won the men’s single title at the 2019 Maharashtra Open?
Answer: Kevin Anderson
Explanation: The 24th edition of 2019 Maharashtra Open (also known as Tata Open Maharashtra) has come to an end. It is the only ATP tournament played in India. Men’s Single: Kevin Anderson (South Africa) defeated Ivo Karlović (Croatia) Men’s Double: Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan (India) defeated Luke Bambridge and Jonny O’Mara (Britain)
7. Name the winner of the women’s single title at the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament 2019
Answer: Karolina Pliskova
Explanation: The Brisbane International Tennis Tournament 2019 has ended in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Mens Single: Kei Nishikori (Japan) . He defeated Daniil Medvedev Woman’s Single: Karolina Pliskova (Czech Republic). This is her 12th title. She defeated Lesia Tsurenko
8. What is the estimated rate of growth of Indian economy for the financial year 2018-19 by Central Statistics Office (CSO)?
Answer: 7.2%
Explanation: Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.2 per cent in 2018-19 as per Central Statistics Office (CSO). The growth in 2017-18 was 6.7 per cent.
9. The mobile application ‘Police-E-Eye’ has been launched by Police Department of which city to regulate traffic violations?
Answer: Coimbatore
Explanation: The Combaitore city police has launched a mobile application named ‘Police-E-Eye’ which will enable the public to take photographs of traffic rule violators and upload them to the police.
10. Sheikh Hasina has been sworn in as the __________ Prime Minister of Bangladesh
Answer: 10th
Explanation: Bangladeshi politician Sheikh Hasina took oath as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the third consecutive term on January 7, 2019. It is Hasina’s fourth term in office. Sheikh Hasina, has been sworn in as the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh. She is the longest serving prime minister in the history of Bangladesh.
1. In order to support the economically weaker section of the General Category candidates, the government has approved to provide a reservation of ________ percent in jobs and educational institutions
Answer: 10%
Explanation: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to give 10 percent reservation in jobs and for admission in higher educational institutions for the economically backward section of the general category. The benefit of this reservation will be availed by those whose annual income is below Rs 8 lakh and have up to five acres of Agricultural land.
2. The Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank has been amalgamated with which bank to form Dakshin Bihar Gramin Bank?
Answer: Madhya Bihar Gramin Bank
Explanation: Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank (Sponsor Bank- UCO Bank) has been amalgamated with Madhya Bihar Gramin Bank (PNB). The consolidated entity has been rechristened as Dakshin Bihar Gramin bank, with headquarters at Patna. PNB is its sponsor bank. With this the total number of RRBs in the country has come down from 56 to 53. Nabard has suggested a road map which proposes to bring down the number of RRBs to 38.
3. Name the King of Malaysia who stepped down from the throne recently?
Answer: Sultan Muhammad V
Explanation: Malaysia’s 15th King, Sultan Muhammad V, resigned from Kingship on January 06, 2019. This is the first time a king has abdicated in the since Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957. Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, will serve as acting king before a new monarch is selected by the Council of Rulers.
4. Name the winner of the Best Film (Drama) in the Golden Globe Awards 2019?
Answer: Bohemian Rhapsody
Explanation: Best Film (Drama): Bohemian Rhapsody; Best Film (Musical or Comedy):Green Book; Best Director in a Motion Picture: Alfonso Cuarón for Roma.
5. Which bank has approved to acquire the housing finance firm Gruh Finance under a share swap deal?
Answer: Bandhan Bank
Explanation: Bandhan Bank has agreed to acquire housing finance firm Gruh Finance through a share swap deal. Under the merger cooperation agreement, shareholders of Gruh Finance will get 568 shares of Bandhan Bank for every 1,000 shares held. Gruh Finance is promoted by the country’s largest mortgage firm HDFC Ltd.
6. Aaron Galindo who retired from professional football, hails from which country?
Answer: Mexico
Explanation: Mexican defender Aaron Galindo has announced his retirement after 16 years as a professional footballer. He played for Spain’s Toledo and Hercules.
7. The Women-only taxi service by Go Pink Cabs has been launched at which airport to ensure safety of women folks?
Answer: Kempegowda International Airport
Explanation: Women-only taxi service has been launched at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport). The service is run by Go Pink Cabs.These Special cabs will bedriven by women, for women. It is aimed at strengthening safety and security for women passengers.
8. India’s largest Integrated Startup Complex is planned to be set up in which state?
Answer: Kerala
Explanation: Kerala is setting up the country’s largest Integrated Startup Complex, which will house a Maker Village, Bionest, and BRINC, the country’s first international accelerator for Hardware startups, among other facilities.It is set up by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and the complex is spread over 180,000 sq ft in Technology Innovation Zone (TIZ).
9. Who has won the Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture (Drama) at the 76th Golden Globe Awards?
Answer: Rami Malek
Explanation: Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture (Drama): Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture (Drama): Glenn Close as Joan Castleman in The Wife.
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy): Christian Bale as Dick Cheney in Vice.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy): Olivia Colman as Queen Anne in The Favourite.
10. Name the high level committee constituted by RBI on Deepening of Digital Payments
Answer: Nandan Nilekani committee
Explanation: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a High-Level Committee on Deepening of Digital Payments, with a view to encourage digitization of payments and enhance financial inclusion through digitization. The Committee has 5 members with Shri Nandan Nilekani (Former Chairman, Unique Identification Authority of India) as its Chairman.
1. Who has been appointed as the first female Chief Economist of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?
Answer: Gita Gopinath
Explanation: Indian-American economist Gita Gopinath took over as the 11th Chief Economist of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on January 1, 2019. With this appointment, she became the first woman to occupy the top IMF post while the second India-born economist after former Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan to hold the position.
2. Name the Director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) who has been reinstated to the post, three months after being forced to leave the position
Answer: Alok Verma
Explanation: Alok Verma has been reinstated as the Director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the Supreme Court.
3. Who will take charge as the interim President of the World Bank after the incumbent head Jim Yong Kim steps down in February 2019?
Answer: Kristalina Georgieva
Explanation: World Bank President Jim Yong Kim has announced that he will step down from his position on February 01, 2019. He has held the position for over six years. He is the 12th President of the World Bank. Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank CEO, will assume the role of interim President effective February 01, 2019 and the bank’s executive board would immediately start the process for selecting a permanent successor to Kim.
4. Who will head the 5 judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court to hear the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid Ayodhya case?
Answer: Justice Ranjan Gogoi
Explanation: : A five-Judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi has been constituted to hear the title suit in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid Ayodhya case.
5. Who has been sworn in as the new Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)?
Answer: Kumar Rajesh Chandra
Explanation: Kumar Rajesh Chandra has been sworn in as the Director General (DG) of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) on 8 January 2019. He succeeds S.S. Deswal.
6. Who is the author of the book ‘We are Displaced’?
Answer: Malala Yousafzai
Explanation: Nobel Peace Prize winner and Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai has come up with a new book titled “We are Displaced”.
7. Under new norms on customer liability in fraudulent PPI transactions, in case of third-party breach, where it is neither the fault of PPI issuer nor the customer but lies elsewhere in the system, the customer will not lose any money if reported within ___________ days.
Answer: 3 days
Explanation: Under new norms on customer liability, frauds due to third-party breach where neither the customer nor the PPI issuer is at fault, there cannot be any liability for the customer, in case the incident in reported within three days. If the fraud is reported between three and seven days, customer liability will amount to the transaction value or ₹10,000, whichever is lower.For over seven days, the liability of the customer will be according to the board-approved policy of the PPI issuer.
8. Who is the head of the Research Advisory Committee constituted by SEBI to link its research function with policy making?
Answer: Sankar De
Explanation: Regulator SEBI has constituted a Research Advisory Committee headed by Dr. Sankar De to strengthen its research function and enhance its linkage to policy making.The research advisory panel will be comprising of prominent financial economists and market practitioners as members.
9. Name the coach of the Indian Senior Men’s Hockey Team, who has been removed from his position by the regulator?
Answer: Harendra Singh
Explanation: Hockey India has removed Harendra Singh from his position as coach of the Indian senior men’s hockey team citing the year 2018 as disappointing for the Indian Men’s Hockey Team. Hockey India High Performance Director David John and current Analytical Coach, Chris Ciriello will take charge as the interim coach. Meanwhile, Dronacharya Awardee Harendra Singh will return to his former role of being Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team Coach.
10. As per the World Bank, what is the expected rate of growth of the Indian economy for the fiscal 2018- 2019?
Answer: 7.3%
Explanation: The World Bank projects India’s growth rate to accelerate to 7.3 percent during the current financial year ending March 2019, in its recently-released Global Economic Prospects (GEP) report on January 8. Additionally, India’s economy is likely to expand by 7.5 percent during the 2019-20 fiscal year and retain its position as the fastest growing major economy in a world of slowing growth. For the 2020-21 and 2021-22 fiscal years, the GEP has projected a growth rate of 7.5 percent.
1. The Gangajal project was dedicated to the nation by PM Modi in which city recently?
Answer: Agra
Explanation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched a series of development projects worth around Rs. 2980 Crores for the Agra city and the adjoining areas on January 9, 2019 to develop and enhance Tourism infrastructure in the city. Gangajal project was dedicated to the nation at an estimated cost of Rs.2880 crores for better and more assured water supply in Agra.
2. Which country has topped the 2019 Henley Passport Index?
Answer: Japan
Explanation: Japan has topped the 2019 Henley Passport Index for the world’s most powerful passport, for the second time in a row. India jumped two positions from 81st in 2018 to 79th in 2019
3. ICC has approved the USA Cricket as its 93rd associate member. This makes USA Cricket to join ICC as its ___________ member
Answer: 105th
Explanation: The United States of America Cricket has become the 105th member of the International Cricket Council on January 8, 2019. The ICC Members approved the USA Cricket’s application to become the 93rd Associate Member in accordance with the ICC Constitution with immediate effect.
4. What is the rank of India in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index 2018?
Answer: 41
Explanation: India has been ranked at 41, a notch above last year, in The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index 2018. India achieved a score of 7.23 on the 11th edition of the index. Norway came out on top and North Korea bottom of the index.
5. PM Modi has recently launched the project for four-laning of Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH211 in which state?
Answer: Maharashtra
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched and laid foundation stones of several development projects at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore in Solapur, Maharashtra on January 8, 2019 which includes, Four-laning of 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52) at a cost of Rs 972.50-crore
6. Name the first ever Indian who has been appointed as the new President of the Global Solar Council (GSC)?
Answer: Pranav R Mehta
Explanation: Shri Pranav R Mehta, has taken over as the president of Global Solar Council (GSC) from January 1, 2019. He is the first Indian to head the GSC. Pranav Mehta is the chairman of National Solar Energy Federation.
7. Andry Rajoelina has recently been declared as the winner of the Presidential elections of which country?
Answer: Madagascar
Explanation: Former Madagascar president Andry Rajoelina was declared as the winner of the presidential election held in December 2018, by the country’s High Constitutional Court after his opponent, Marc Ravalomanana, lodged a complaint alleging fraud.
8. Which payment Solution Company has partnered with mobile PoS service provider Mosambee to launch Samosa PoS?
Answer: Mastercard
Explanation: Mastercard and Mosambee, a payment solution company, have partnered to launch a low-cost point of sale (PoS) machine, Samosa PoS.
9. To discover and celebrate the exceptional achievements of women worldwide, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched an online campaign name #WWW which stands for_____________.
Answer: Web Wonder Women
Explanation: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched an online campaign, ‘#www : Web- Wonder Women’. The Campaign aims to discover and celebrate the exceptional achievements of women, who have been driving positive agenda of social change via social media.
10. The GST Council has increased the threshold limit for eligibility under the GST Composition Scheme for Goods to Rs ____________ from the fiscal 2019-20
Answer: Rs 1.5 crore
Explanation: The threshold limit for eligibility under the GST Composition Scheme was raised to Rs 1.5 crore, from Rs 1 crore, by the GST Council. This will apply from the 2019-20 fiscal beginning April 1, 2019.
1. When do World Hindi Day takes place?
Answer: January 10
Explanation: The World Hindi Day is celebrated annually on January 10 to promote the language at the global stage.
2. India’s longest single-lane steel cable suspension bridge Byorung Bridge has been inaugurated in which state?
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation: Chief Minister Pema Khandu has inaugurated India’s longest single-lane steel cable suspension bridge named Byorung bridge in Arunachal Pradesh.The length of the bridge is 300 meter and is built over Siang River at a cost of Rs 4,843 crore. It is present in the Upper Siang district
3. Who has been named as the Chef de Mission for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics?
Answer: Birendra Prasad Baishya
Explanation: Birendra Prasad Baishya, President of the Indian Weightlifting Federation (WIF) has been named Chef de Mission for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
4. In order to achieve the target of 100 GW of solar energy by 2022, the Central government has reduced the timeline for completion of the solar power projects by_________ months
Answer: 6 months
Explanation: The power ministry has compressed timelines for executing solar power projects by six months. For projects in Solar Parks: timeline reduced to 15 months from 21 months (from the date of execution of the power purchase agreement (PPA)) For projects elsewhere: timeline reduced to 18 months from 24 months. (from the date of execution of the power purchase agreement (PPA)). India has set an ambitious target of having 100 GW of solar energy by 2022. The country has about 26 GW of solar energy capacities.
5. The Ministry of Sports has announced to provide an amount of Rs _________ lakh to 1000 selected players from the 2nd Khelo India Youth Games per annul for the next 8 year to help in development of their sports ability
Answer: Rs 5 lakh
Explanation: The Khelo India Youth Games 2019 was officially inaugurated by Union Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore at Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune on January 9, 2019. 1,000 players will be selected out of competitions in the current edition of Khelo India and they will be given Rs 5 lakh each per annul for the next 8 years for development of their sporting talent by the Sports Ministry.
6. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched by the NDA government aims to reduce the PM2.5 and PM10 by 20%-30 % by which year?
Answer: 2024
Explanation:Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan launched National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in New Delhi on January 10, 2019. Under NCAP, the government has proposed to reduce the concentration of PM2.5 (fine, respirable pollution particles) and PM10 (coarse pollution particles) by 20%–30% by 2024 taking 2017 as the base year for the comparison of concentration.
7. The NATPOLREX-VII was recently conducted by which armed force of India recently?
Answer: Indian Coast Guard
Explanation: The seventh edition of the National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-VII) was held in Mumbai. The aim of the Exercise is to validate and reinforce response mechanism for oil Pollution incidents and enable the Indian Coast Guard to fine tune the actions required in such eventualities.
8. The 29th biennial Indian Paint Conference will be held in which city?
Answer: Agra
Explanation: The Indian Paint Association (IPA) has announced that the 29th biennial Indian Paint Conference would be held in Agra, Uttar Pradesh from 11th to 13th January 2019. The theme of the Conference is ‘Paints Pe Charcha – Naye Aayaam’.
9. According to the recent report of the WEF, India will become the ___________ largest consumer market in the world by 2030
Answer: Third
Explanation:: A report by World Economic Forum, titled ‘Future of Consumption in Fast-Growth Consumer Market – India’, has said that India is set to become the world’s third largest consumer market behind only USA and China by 2030. As per the report, consumer spending in India is expected to grow from 1.5 trillion US dollar at present to 6 trillion US dollar by 2030
10. Who headed the high powered committee which approved to remove Alok Verma from the post of the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently?
Answer: Narendra Modi
Explanation: The selection panel/committee led by prime minister Narendra Modi has removed Alok Verma from the post of Director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).The move comes within 48 hours of Supreme Court reinstated Alok Verma as the director of the Central Bureau of Investigation. His tenure was about to end on January 31, 2019. He has become the first Director in the history of the CBI to face such action.
1. Who is the author of the Novel “Aapar Khushi Ka Gharana”?
Answer: Arundhati Roy
Explanation: Arundhati Roy has launched the Hindi and Urdu editions of her second novel “The Ministry of Utmost Happiness”. The Hindi edition is named- “Aapar Khushi Ka Gharana” The Urdu edition is named- “Bepanah Shazmani Ki Mumlikat”.
2. The 2019 Ardh Kumbh Mela has been organized in which city?
Answer: Prayagraj
Explanation: The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, inaugurated the biggest cultural festival named Sanskriti Kumbh on January 10, 2019 in Kumbh Mela area, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The 29 days cultural extravaganza will continue till March 4, 2019
3. Who has been sworn in as the new President of Venezuela?
Answer: Nicolas Maduro
Explanation: Nicolas Maduro took over his second term as the President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on January 10, 2019.
4. How many states have signed the agreement with the Central government recently for the construction of Renukaji Dam Multipurpose Project?
Answer: 6
Explanation: An agreement for the construction of Renukaji Dam Multipurpose Project was signed in New Delhi on January 11, 2019 among six Indian states namely Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand.
5. The GST council has approved a hike in threshold limit for MSMEs for exemption under the goods and services tax (GST) system to Rs________
Answer: Rs 40 lakhs
Explanation: Central Government has doubled the annual turnover threshold for exemption of MSMEs from GST registration to Rs 40 lakh from the current Rs 20 lakh. With this two million additional micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India will become eligible to opt out of the goods and services tax (GST) system from April 01, 2019. For North-eastern state this threshold limit is Rs 20 lakhs.
6. Who has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Taiwan?
Answer: Su Tseng-chang
Explanation: Su Tseng-chang has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Taiwan by the President Tsai Ing-wen on January 10. The new appointment follows the resignation of the incumbent Lai Ching-te.
7. The 25th edition of Partnership Summit 2019 will be held in which city?
Answer: Mumbai
Explanation: The 25th edition of Partnership Summit 2019 will be held in Mumbai on January 12 and 13, 2019. It is a global platform for dialogue, debate, deliberation and engagement among Indian and global leaders on economic policy and growth trends in India. The theme of the summit is: “New India: Rising to Global Occasion”.
8. The ADB has planned to increase its India funding for the year 2019 to USD __________
Answer: USD 4.5 billion
Explanation: Asian Development Bank has announced that it will scale up its India funding to USD 4.5 billion (about Rs 31,500 crore) in 2019.
9. Which state has launched the scheme ‘Ama Ghare LED’ to distribute LED bulbs free of cost?
Answer: Odisha
Explanation: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a new scheme ‘Ama Ghare LED’ in the state. Under the scheme, four numbers of nine watt LED bulbs will be distributed to each beneficiary registered under National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the State Food Security Scheme (SFSS), free of cost.
10. Who has been appointed as the interim Director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)?
Answer: M. Nageswara Rao
Explanation: A day after the removal of Alok Verma, Additional Director M. Nageswara Rao again took charge of the office of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director. Apart from this, Alok Verma has resigned from service a day after he was shunted out as CBI director and appointed as DG Fire Services.
1. Which Ministry has launched the AI enabled platform SIDCOP?
Answer: Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Explanation: Ministry of Commerce & Industry has launched an AI enabled platform SIDCOP (SinoIndian Digital Collaboration Plaza) to bring Indian IT companies and Chinese enterprises closer to each other. This is a partnership by National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) with Municipal Governments of Guiyang and Dalia (China).
2. Which city will host the 2019 International Dam Safety Conference?
Answer: Bhubaneswar
Explanation: The International Dam Safety Conference – 2019 will be held in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha on 13-14 February, 2019. Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Naveen Patnaik will be the Chief Guest at the event. The event will be jointly organised by the state government of Odisha, the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the World Bank.
3. What is the projected growth rate of Indian economy for the fiscal year 2018-19 according to ADB?
Answer: 7.3%
Explanation: ADB also projected Indian economy to grow at 7.3 per cent in 2018-19 and at 7.6 per cent in 2019-20.
4. Who has been conferred with the ICSI’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2019?
Answer: Adi Godrej
Explanation: Adi Godrej (Godrej Group Chairman) has been conferred the ICSI’s Lifetime Achievement Award for ‘Translating Excellence in Corporate Governance into Reality. The awards were instituted by The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) at the 18th ICSI National Awards.
5. The 4th Raisina Dialogue took place in which city?
Answer: New Delhi
Explanation: The fourth edition of the Raisina Dialogue was held in New Delhi from January 8-10, 2019. The theme of the three days Dialogue was “A World Reorder: New Geometries; Fluid Partnerships; Uncertain Outcomes”. Raisina Dialogue. The inaugural address of the conference was delivered by Prime Minister of Norway H E Ms Erna Solberg while the Dialogue concluded with an address by Malaysian leader Anwar Ibrahim.
6. The GST Council has approved to levy cess of ______ percent on intra-State supply of goods and services within the State of Kerala for a period not exceeding 2 years
Answer: 1%
Explanation: The GST Council has approved levy of cess on intra-State supply of goods and services within the State of Kerala at a rate not exceeding one per cent for a period not exceeding 2 years.
7. When is the National Youth Day celebrated?
Answer: January 12
Explanation: National Youth Day is celebrated on every year on 12 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
8. The foundation stone of the Iconic Kuchipudi Bridge has been laid over which river?
Answer: River Krishna
Explanation: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for the construction of Iconic Kuchipudi Bridge over river Krishna.
9. Which country’s Army Chief has been conferred with the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army on January 12, 2019?
Answer: Nepal
Explanation: President Ram Nath Kovind on January 12, 2019 conferred the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army to General Purna Chandra Thapa, the Army Chief of Nepal. He was honored for his commendable military prowess and immeasurable contribution to fostering Nepal’s long and friendly association with India.
10. Sweet Shop is a collection of poetry by which writer?
Answer: Amit Chaudhuri
Explanation: Noted novelist, essayist, poet and musician Amit Chaudhuri has released his new poetry collection “Sweet Shop”.
1. Which state has launched the ‘One Family One Job’ scheme?
Answer: Sikkim
Explanation: Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling has launched the ‘One Family One Job’ scheme which entitles one government job for every family in the state. At a “Rojgar Mela” (employment fair) organised at the Paljor stadium in Gangtok, over 11,772 unemployed youths were handed out appointment letters on January 12,2019.
2. Name the Chairman of the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE) who resigned from the post recently?
Answer: Ashok Chawla
Explanation: Ashok Chawla has resigned as the chairman of the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE) on January 11, 2019. Chawla’s resignation came on a day the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has obtained the sanction of the ministries concerned to file charges against him and four other former bureaucrats in the Aircel-Maxis case.
3. Who inaugurated the National Youth Parliament Festival 2019?
Answer: Rajyavardhan Rathore
Explanation: The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Col Rajyavardhan Rathore launched the National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 in New Delhi on January 12, coinciding with the National Youth Day. National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 is organised on the theme of “Be The Voice of New India” and “Find solutions and contribute to policy”. It will continue up to 24 February 2019.
4. Banker-turned-politician Meera Sanyal passed away recently. She was involved with which political party?
Answer: Aam Aadmi Party
Explanation: Banker-turned-politician Meera Sanyal passed away after a brief illness. Sanyal, 57, had joined the Aam Aadmi Party after quitting her job as the country chief executive of Royal Bank of Scotland, and contested the Lok Sabha election in 2014.
5. The IDFC Bank has been renamed as ____________
Answer: IDFC First Bank Ltd
Explanation: IDFC Bank has announced that its name has been changed to IDFC First Bank Ltd. w.e.f January 12, 2019. IDFC Bank and non-banking financial company Capital First had announced completion of their merger on.
6. Brahm Dutt has been appointed as the non-executive part-time Chairman of which bank?
Answer: Yes Bank
Explanation: Yes Bank has appointed Brahm Dutt as its non-executive part-time Chairman till July 4, 2020. According to the company, Dutt has been on the Board of Yes Bank since July 2013 as an ‘Independent Director’, and has contributed to almost all the sub-committees of the Board during this period.
7. What is the Issue Price of the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2018-19 – Series V?
Answer: Rs. 3,214 per gram
Explanation: Government has announced that Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2018-19 – Series V will be opened for subscription for the period from January 14, 2019 to January 18, 2019. The Issue Price of the Bond during this subscription period shall be Rs. 3,214 per gram with the Settlement Date of January 22, 2019.
8. How much amount of loan agreement has been signed between Bangladesh and the ADB to improve the rural road network in the country?
Answer: USD 200 million
Explanation: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Bangladeshi government have signed an agreement for $200 million in loans to improve the rural road network in Bangladesh. The assistance will support the government’s Rural Connectivity Improvement Project (RCIP) to upgrade about 1,700 km of rural roads. The total cost of the project, which is due for completion in November 2023, is $285.31 million.
9. What amount of Commemorative coin has been released by the government of India on January 13, 2019 to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Answer: Rs 350
Explanation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi released a commemorative coin of Rs. 350 in New Delhi on January 13, 2019 to mark the birth anniversary celebrations of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
10. Rajesh Ghodge was one of the former Ranji cricketer who represented ___________
Answer: Goa
Explanation: Former Ranji Trophy cricketer of Goa, Rajesh Ghodge passed away during a local tournament at the Rajendra Prasad Stadium in Goa.
1. Who has been conferred with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award by the West Bengal Government during its annual ‘Cinema Samabartan’ ceremony 2019?
Answer: Buddhadeb Dasgupta
Explanation: : National award-winning prominent Bengali filmmaker Buddhadeb Dasgupta was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the West Bengal Film Journalists Association (WBFJA) on January 13 during the third edition of the ‘Cinema Samabartan’ ceremony. The award is in the name of the late Satyajit Ray.
2. Who will head the expert committee formed by the Madras High Court on issue pertaining to root out invasive species of plants from the Western Ghats?
Answer: Cherukuri Raghavendra Babu
Explanation: The Madras High Court has set up an expert committee to find a solution to root out invasive species of plants from the Western Ghats while observing that such species were the second largest cause of biodiversity loss in the world. The committee shall be headed by Cherukuri Raghavendra Babu, the chairman of the expert committee on invasive species in Chennai National Biodiversity Authority.
3. Name the player who won the Men’s single title at the Sydney International tennis tournament title 2019
Answer: Alex de Minaur
Explanation: Men’ single-Alex de Minaur (Australia); Women’s single-Petra Kvitová (Czech Republic)
4. Mohammed Zulfiqaruddin who passed away at the age of 83 recently was one of the former Indian Champions of which sports?
Answer: Football
Explanation: Former India footballer Mohammed Zulfiqaruddin who was the part of 1956 Olympics in Melbourne passed away. He was 83.
5. What will be the Issue price of the on Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2018-19 – Series V on digital payment mode?
Answer: Rs. 3,164 per gram
Explanation: A discount of Rs. 50 (Rupees Fifty only) per gram from the issue price to those investors who apply online and the payment is made through digital mode. (i.e Rs. 3,164 per gram)
6. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the ___________ Guru of the Sikhs
Answer: 10th
7. Name the recipient of the maiden Philip Kotler Presidential award
Answer: Narendra Modi
Explanation: Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was presented with the first-ever Philip Kotler Presidential award in New Delhi on January 14, 2019 for his outstanding leadership for the nation.
8. The India-Myanmar bilateral Army exercise ‘IMBEX 2018-19’ is being held in which state?
Answer: Haryana
Explanation: The second India-Myanmar bilateral Army exercise ‘IMBEX 2018-19’ commenced at Chandimandir military station in Haryana. IMBEX stands for – India-Myanmar Bilateral Military Exercise.
9. Which is the first Indian state to implement the newly introduced 10 percent reservations for the economically weaker sections in the general category in government jobs and higher education?
Answer: Gujarat
Explanation: Gujarat has become the first state to implement new provision of 10 percent reservations in government jobs and higher education for the economically weaker sections in the general category. The newly introduced reservation provision will be effective from January 14, 2019 across the state.
10. Who has been appointed as the head of the panel formed by GST Council to review reason behind revenue shortfall being faced by the states after the GST roll-out?
Answer: Sushil Modi
Explanation: Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi will head the seven-member committee to look into revenue shortfall being faced by the states after the GST roll-out, and suggest steps for augmenting collections. The GST Council, headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and comprising state ministers, had on December 22, 2018, decided to set up a group of ministers (GoM) to analyse reasons for shortfall in revenue collections by the states since July 2017.
1. The 9th International Micro Irrigation Conference (9IMIC) will be held in which city?
Answer: Aurangabad
Explanation: The 9th International Micro Irrigation Conference (9IMIC) will be held in Aurangabad, Maharashtra from 16-18 January 2019. The theme of international conference is ‘Micro Irrigation in Modern Agriculture’.
2. Who has been named as the new Chief of Myntra-Jabong?
Answer: Amar Nagaram
Explanation: CEO of Myntra- Jabong Ananth Narayanan has resigned from his post. Amar Nagaram has been named as Head, Myntra and Jabong.
3. Who has won the Sushila Devi Literature Award during Bhopal Literature and Art Festival (BLF)?
Answer: Namita Gokhale
Explanation: Author Namita Gokhale has won the Sushila Devi Literature Award at the inaugural edition of Bhopal Literature and Art Festival (BLF). She has won the award for her novel “Things to Leave Behind”.
4. Who is the winner of the 2018-19 Premier Badminton League?
Answer: Bengaluru Raptors
Explanation: Bengaluru Raptors beat the Mumbai Rockets 4-3 to win their maiden Premier Badminton League 2018-19 title in finals on January 13, 2019 held at the Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru.
5. Who is known as the ‘Father of Modern Marketing’?
Answer: Philip Kotler
Explanation: Philip Kotler is a professor of marketing at Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management. The 87 year old is world-renowned author of over 60 marketing books.
6. Name the Prime Minister of Norway who was recently on a 3 days state visit to India?
Answer: Erna Solberg
Explanation: Capital-Oslo and Currency- Norwegian krone
7. When is the Army Day observed in India?
Answer: January 15
Explanation: The Army Day in India is celebrated on 15 January every year.
8. Who will head the 7 member Group of Ministers (GoM) for boosting the Real Estate Sector under the GST regime?
Answer: Nitin Patel
Explanation: The GST Council has constituted 7-Member Group of Ministers (GoM) for boosting the Real Estate Sector under the GST regime. The GoM will be Chaired by Deputy Chief Minister, Government of Gujarat, Shri Nitin Patel
9. Shivajirao Deshmukh was a veteran politician associated with which party?
Answer: Indian National Congress
Explanation: Senior Congress leader and former chairman of Maharashtra Legislative Council Shivaji rao Deshmukh passed away in Mumbai following brief illness. He was 84
10. The ‘Stressed Asset Management (SAM)’ vertical has been launched by which bank to deal with NPA?
Answer: Syndicate Bank
Explanation: The Syndicate Bank has created a separate vertical comprising around 1,200 of its existing staffers to recover its non-performing assets (NPAs) amounting to around Rs 27,000 crore. The ‘Stressed Asset Management (SAM)’ vertical would comprise legal as well as credit experts who would help branch managers to device plans to recover dues from NPAs.
1. What is the total amount allocated to the MGNREGA Scheme for the financial year 2018-19?
Answer: Rs. 61,084 crore
Explanation:The Government of India has allocated an additional Rs. 6,084 crore at RE stage to MGNREGA, which brings the total allocation to the scheme to Rs. 61,084 crore in 2018-19.This is the highest ever allocation made to the scheme till date.
2. Who has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer of International Cricket Council to replace incumbent Chief David Richardson?
Answer: Manu Sawhney
Explanation: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the appointment of Manu Sawhney as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will replace David Richardson as the CEO in July after the ICC men’s World Cup (to be held in England).
3. The 1st edition of the Ekalavya Model Residential Schools Sports Meet 2019 has been organised in which city
Answer: Hyderabad
Explanation: The first Ekalavya Model Residential Schools Sports Meet 2019 was inaugurated at Gachibowli stadium in Hyderabad on January 14, 2019. The three days National Sports Meet (January 14-16, 2019) was inaugurated by Shri Jaswantsinh Sumanbhai Bhabhor, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs.
4. The robot named ROADEO has been inducted by the traffic police of which city for effective management of traffic system of the city?
Answer: Chennai
Explanation: The Chennai Traffic Police has inducted a road safety robot named ROADEO to help police in traffic management and assist pedestrians in Chennai roads. These robots can be integrated with the traffic signals, as well as can be operated manually, through a Bluetooth app, thereby easing the work of traffic police.
5. Lenin Rajendran was an Indian filmmaker who worked in _________ cinema
Answer: Malayalam
Explanation: Veteran Malyalam filmmaker and chairman of Kerala State Film Development Corporation Lenin Rajendran passed away. He was 67.
6. “Womaniya on GeM” is an initiative launched by which ministry?
Answer: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Explanation: Government e Marketplace [GeM] has launched “Womaniya on GeM”, an initiative to enable women entrepreneurs and women self-help groups [WSHGs] to sell handicrafts and handloom, accessories directly to various Government ministries, departments and institutions. Government e Marketplace[GeM] is a 100 percent government owned company setup under the aegis of Ministry of Commerce and Industry for procurement of common use goods and services by Government ministries, departments and CPSEs.
7. Macedonia has been renamed as ____________
Answer: Republic of Northern Macedonia
Explanation: The Parliament of Macedonian has amended its constitution in order to rename the country as the ‘Republic of Northern Macedonia’.The decision is a part of the Prespa agreement signed on 12 June 2018 between Greek prime minister Alexis Tsipras and his Macedonian counterpart Zoran Zaev to rename the Republic of Macedonia as “Republic of North Macedonia.
8. The Global Aviation Summit 2019 has been organised in which city?
Answer: Mumbai
Explanation: The Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Suresh Prabhu inaugurated the Global Aviation Summit 2019 in Mumbai on January 15, 2019. The theme of the two day Summit is ‘Flying for all-especially the next 6 Billion’.
9. PM Modi visited which district of Odisha recently to launch several development projects in the state?
Answer: Balangir
Explanation: : Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Balangir in Odisha on January 15, 2019 to launch several development projects worth over Rs.1500 crores. This was his third visit to the state in a period of last one month.
10. The Jai Kisan Rin Mukti Yojana has been launched by which state to provide farm loan waiver to the marginal farmers in the state?
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: The Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath launched a farm debt-waiver scheme of Rs 50,000-crorenamed ‘Jai Kisan Rin Mukti Yojana’. The scheme would benefit 55 lakh small and marginal farmers in the state.
1. Sir Michael Atiyah who passed away recently was a well known __________
Answer: Mathematician
Explanation: Sir Michael Atiyah, a British mathematician who received the 1966 Fields Medal, also known as the ‘Nobel for Mathematics,’ passed away at the age of 89 on January 11. He had worked with several Indian mathematicians during his career.
2. Which Indian institution has achieved the top position in the Times Higher Education (THE) Emerging Economies University Rankings 2019?
Answer: Indian Institute of Science- Bangalore (IISc)
Explanation: As per the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Emerging Economies University Rankings 2019, that comprises of 442 institutes, 49 Indian institutes have found the place in the ranking. There are 25 Indian university in top 200. The India group in the ranking was again led by the Indian Institute of ScienceBangalore (IISc) whose position was at No. 14, followed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Bombay at 27th position.Overall Top is Tsinghua University, China.
3. How much amount of expenditure has been approved by the Cabinet for the Integrated E-filing and Centralized Processing Center 2.0 Project of the Income Tax Department?
Answer: Rs 4,241.97 crore
Explanation: The cabinet has given approval to expenditure sanction of Rs.4,241.97crore for Integrated E-filing & Centralized Processing Center 2.0 Project of the Income Tax Department. The system aims to cut down the processing time for returns to one day from 63 days and expedite refunds. Infosys has been selected to implement the project after the bidding process.
4. Who has been awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2018?
Answer: Shri Yohei Sasakawa
Explanation: For his contribution in Leprosy Eradication in India and across the world. (Chairman of The Nippon Foundation)
5. The Union Cabinet has approved to increase the authorized capital of Exim Bank to Rs. ___________.
Answer: Rs 20,000 crore
Explanation: The Cabinet has approved to increase the authorized capital of Exim Bank from Rs. 10,000 crore to Rs. 20,000 crore.
6. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in which state?
Answer: Kerala
Explanation: Prime Minister unveiled a plaque launching the completion of several developmental projects undertaken in the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple complex in Thiruvananthapuram under Swadeshi Darshan scheme and dedicated Kollam Bypass to the nation
7. Which city has been ranked as the world’s most dynamic city as per the JLL City Momentum Index 2019?
Answer: Bengaluru
Explanation: : Bengaluru is the world’s most dynamic city among 131 major cities as per the JLL City Momentum Index 2019. Hyderabad is at the second place, followed by Hanoi at third.
8. Who has been named as the Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Boxing Team?
Answer: Mohammed Ali Qamar
Explanation: Mohammed Ali Qamar has been appointed as the chief coach for the country’s female boxers. Mohammed Ali Qamar is the man who won India’s first Commonwealth Games gold medal in boxing.
9. In order to spread awareness about conservation of oil and gas, the Ministry of Petroleum has launched a special vans named ____________
Answer: SAKSHAM
Explanation: Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan flagged off SAKSHAM (Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav) Vans to promote and create awareness among people on the need of oil and gas conservation for the future and the methods to do it.
10. Name the Indian origin scientist who has been honored with the 2019 Japan Prize
Answer: Rattan Lal
Explanation: Indian born professor Dr. Rattan Lal, Distinguished University Professor of Soil Science at .The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A has been honored with the 2019 Japan Prize. Dr. Yoshio Okamoto, Professor Emeritus at Nagoya University in Nagoya, Japan was also awarded for his contribution to the development of basic science and industry by establishing the groundbreaking concept of asymmetric polymerization.
1. What is the total worth of the Sustainable Catchment Forest Management (SCATFORM) project launched by the Tripura government?
Answer: Rs 1,000 crore
Explanation: Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb has launched a Rs 1,000-crore Sustainable Catchment Forest Management (SCATFORM) project for local communities living in and around forest areas in the state. The project would help improve forests in the targeted catchment areas, and the ecosystem would be conserved.
2. Under who’s Chairmanship, has the Central government formed a committee to draft guidelines for setting up of Domestic Council to streamline the gems and jewelry industry?
Answer: Pramod Agrawal
Explanation: The Union Ministry of Commerce has announced a committee to draft guidelines for forming a domestic council to streamline the Rs 5-trillion gems and jewellery industry. The five-member committee is headed by Pramod Agrawal, Chairman, Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council. It has members from the India Bullion and Jewellers Association, AIGJF and other trade bodies.
3. What is the current Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR)?
Answer: 19.25%
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India has reduced the statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) to 19.25% from 19.50% as announced in the 5th Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Meeting.
4. Which city is hosting the India Rubber Expo 2019?
Answer: Mumbai
Explanation: Union minister for commerce and Industry and Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu inaugurated the ([latex]10^{th}[/latex]) edition of the India Rubber Expo 2019 in Mumbai at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre on January 17, 2019. India Rubber Expo (IRE) is currently Asia’s largest Rubber Exhibition and offers a unique opportunity for Indian companies to meet and collaborate with overseas companies.
5. What is the estimated growth rate of Indian economy for the financial year 2019-20 according to the latest prediction of India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra)?
Answer: 7.5%
Explanation: India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has predicted India’s GDP growth rate in 2019-20 at 7.5% on account of steady improvement in major sectors — industry and services. For 2018-19, Ind-Ra has predicted the GDP growth rate for India at 7.2%
6. Name the first ever Indian who has become the world’s youngest mountaineer to climb all the 7 highest mountain peaks as well as 7 Volcanic Summits of each continents?
Answer: Satyarup Siddhanta
Explanation: Renowned Indian mountaineer Satyarup Siddhanta conquered, Antarctica’s highest point, Mount Sidley, on January 17, 2019. With this feat, Kolkata based software engineer has become the first Indian as well as the youngest man in the world to have climbed all the seven highest mountain peaks and seven volcanic summits across each continents.
7. The UNNATI programme was launched by ISRO in which city to provide training on Nanosatellite development?
Answer: Bengaluru
Explanation: Union Minister of State for Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the UNNATI programme of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Bengaluru on January 17, 2019. UNNATI (Unispace Nanosatellite Assembly & Training) is a capacity building programme on Nanosatellite development organised by ISRO to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first United Nations conference on the exploration and peaceful uses of outer space (UNISPACE-50).
8. According to the recent decisions of the RBI, all eligible borrowers can now raise External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) up to USD __________million or equivalent per financial year under the automatic route
Answer: USD 750 million
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India has rationalisation in the New External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Framework and Rupee denominated bonds to further improve the ease of doing business. Some major changes are: All eligible borrowers can now raise ECBs up to USD 750 million or equivalent per financial year under the automatic route replacing the existing sector wise limits.
9. Vishnu Hari Dalmia who passed away recently at the age of 91 was the former President of which organisation
Answer: Vishwa Hindu Parishad
Explanation: Former International President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Vishnu Hari Dalmia passed away. He was 91 year old. Dalmia contributed in giving a befitting renovation to Sri Krishna Janmasthan temples along with his father Jai Dayal Dalmia.
10. The 25th edition of the International conference and exhibition on terrestrial and satellite broadcasting (BES EXPO 2019) has been organised in which city?
Answer: New Delhi
Explanation: Information and Broadcasting Secretary Amit Khare and TRAI Chairman R S Sharma joint inaugurated the 25th edition of the International conference and exhibition on terrestrial and satellite broadcasting, BES EXPO 2019, in New Delhi on January 17, 2019. The three days conference been organised by the Broadcast Engineering Society (BES-India) and is rated as the biggest broadcast technology show in India. Theme: Next Gen Broadcasting in the IT World.
1. What will be the Minimum Average Maturity Period (MAMP) for all ECBs under the New External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Framework of RBI?
Answer: 3 years
Explanation: MAMP will be 3 years for all ECBs. However, for ECB raised from foreign equity holder and utilized for specific purposes, the MAMP would be 5 years.Similarly, for ECB up to USD 50 million per financial year raised by manufacturing sector, which has been given a special dispensation, the MAMP would be 1 year.
2. What is the theme of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2019?
Answer: Shaping a New India
Explanation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Summit in Gandhi nagar, Gujarat on January 18, 2019. The three-day investors’ meet will take place at Mahatma Mandir Exhibition cum Convention Center from 18 – 20 January 2019. The theme of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit 2019 is “Shaping a New India.
3. Which Indian institution has launched the start up named “PadhAI” to offer training in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Answer: Indian Institute of Technology Madras
Explanation: The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has launched a start-up name “PadhAI” to prepare the workforce about the Artificial Intelligence (AI) by training students at nominal costs. The start-up “PadhAI” offers hands-on course on ‘Deep Learning’ which is a sub-field of AI.
4. Who has been sworn in as the new Chief Justice of Pakistan?
Answer: Justice Asif Saeed Khosa
Explanation: Justice Asif Saeed Khosa took oath as the 26th Chief Justice of Pakistan on January 18, 2019. President Arif Alvi administered oath to the new Chief Justice who took office after the retirement of Chief Justice Saqib Nisar.
5. The Diffo bridge has been inaugurated in which state recently?
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
Explanation: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited the India-China border in Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh and inaugurated the Diffo (Chipu) bridge at Roing. The length of the bridge is 329-metre bridge.
6. Who has been appointed as the head of the 8 member Group of Ministers (GoM) panel to decide GST rates on lottery tickets?
Answer: Sudhir Mungantiwar
Explanation: GST Council has announced the formation of a Group of Ministers (GoM) panel to look into the differential GST rates on lottery tickets and tax issues arising from lottery sales. The GoM/Committee will be headed by Sudhir Mungantiwar (Finance Minister of Maharashtra). The committee has 8 members.
7. Which Indian state will be the first to receive the new e-commerce platform which is soon to be launched jointly by Reliance Retail and Reliance Jio Info comm?
Answer: Gujarat
Explanation: Mukesh Ambani has announced that Reliance Retail and Reliance Jio Infocomm would jointly launch a new e-commerce platform in the country. Gujarat would be the first state to get it.
8. What is the total strength of the Judges in the Supreme Court of India in the present time?
Answer: 31
Explanation: Justice Dinesh Maheshwari and Justice Sanjiv Khanna were sworn in as judges of the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019. They were administered the oath by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. With the appointment of Justice Maheshwari and Justice Khanna the total strength of Judges in Supreme Court is 28 against its sanctioned strength of 31.
9. Which organisation has released the Global Risks Report 2019?
Answer: World Economic Forum
Explanation: The World Economic Forum has released the 14th edition of the Global Risks Report 2019. The report presents the results of latest Global Risks Perception Survey in which nine out of 10 respondents expect worsening economic and political confrontations between major powers this year.
10. The Central government has decided to make Euro 6 mandatory for initial launch of automobile from__________
Answer: April 1, 2020
Explanation: Union Minister for Transport Nitin Gadkari has announced that the central government has taken a decision to make Euro 6 mandatory for initial launch of automobiles from April 1, 2020. The aim of Euro 6 is to reduce levels of harmful car and van exhaust emissions, both in petrol and diesel cars.
1. China has recently revised its final GDP growth for the year 2017 to ________ percent
Answer: 6.8%
Explanation: National Bureau of Statistics of China has lowered the final GDP growth attained by China in 2017 from 6.9 per cent, announced initially, to 6.8 per cent. China calculates its GDP in two phases: first, preliminary estimations which gave rise to the figure of 6.9 per cent revealed in January 2018. There is then another phase of final revision, whose results were published on January 18, 2019.
2. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Medical Sciences and Research has been inaugurated in which city of Gujarat by PM Modi?
Answer: Ahmedabad
Explanation: PM Modi’s 3 day long visit to Gujarat was marked by the inauguration of various other events like: Global Trade Show; Super-speciality public hospital “Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Medical Sciences and Research” in Ahmedabad; Ahmedabad Shopping Festival-2019 at the Sabarmati Riverfront; Vibrant Gujarat Summit-2019; T Armoured Systems Complex in Hazira, Gujarat; foundation stone of Nirali Cancer Hospital at Navsari.
3. Which city has been named as the World Capital of Architecture for 2020 by UNESCO?
Answer: Rio de Janeiro
Explanation: Rio de Janeiro the capital city of Brazil has been named as the World Capital of Architecture for 2020 by the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Rio de Janeiro will be the first city to receive the title under “World Capital of Architecture initiative” launched together by UNESCO and the International Union of Architects (UIA) in November 2018.
4. The M-Aarogya mobile app has been launched for which state/UT of India?
Answer: Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Explanation: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on January 19, 2019 visited at Silvassa in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and inaugurated several development projects worth more than Rs 1400 crore that includes: M-Aarogya mobile app – for better healthcare facility and for providing healthcare facilities through mobile app was launched in the UT. New Industrial policy and new IT policy has been launched to give a boost to Industries.
5. Which Ministry will be organizing 15 days long ‘Shehri Samridhi Utsav’ in February 2019?
Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Explanation: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has announced that it will organise a fortnightly event named ‘Shehri Samridhi Utsav’ from 1st -15th February 2019. The event will focus on urban livelihoods. The event aims at extending the outreach of National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) to the poorest of the poor and the most vulnerable, showcase its initiatives and facilitate access of SHG members to the other government schemes.
6. The e-commerce platform re-weave.in has been launched for the handloom weavers of which state by Microsoft India?
Answer: Telangana
Explanation: Microsoft India has launched a new e-commerce platform re-weave.in for handloom weavers of Telangana under its Project Re Weave.
7. The first ever museum dedicated to Indian Cinema named “National Museum of Indian Cinema” has been inaugurated in which city?
Answer: Mumbai
Explanation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the National Museum of Indian Cinema at Films Division of India premises in Mumbai. This is first such museum on Indian Cinema in the country. The Museum is housed in two buildings – the New Museum Building and the 19th century historic palace Gulshan Mahal – in the Films Division campus in Mumbai. The state-of-the-art Museum is built at a cost of Rs. 140.61 crore
8. Which country will host the Conference of Parties to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in 2019
Answer: India
Explanation: India will host the 14th session of the Conference of Parties to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in 2019 with an aim to address the issue of land degradation and desertification.
9. Based on the latest approval of the Ministry of Defence, women Jawans would be allowed to be inducted in the Army’s Corps of Military Police and would comprise of _______ percent of the total Corps
Answer: 20%
Explanation: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave a nod for induction of women as Jawans in the Army’s Corps of Military Police. The women will be inducted in graded manner to eventually comprise 20 percent of total Corps of Military Police of the Army
10. The HDFC Standard Life Insurance has renamed itself as __________
Answer: HDFC Life Insurance Company Ltd
Explanation: HDFC Standard Life Insurance on January 18, 2019 changed its name to HDFC Life Insurance after receiving all the relevant approvals from regulatory authorities.
1. Which city is hosting the second edition of the World Orange Festival 2019?
Answer: Nagpur
Explanation: The 4-day event of 2nd World Orange Festival has started in Nagpur, Maharashtra from January 18, 2019 and will continue till January 21
2. Who has been appointed as the head of the 11 member committee formed by IBBI on Group Insolvency?
Answer: UK Sinha
Explanation: The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) has constituted a 11-member working group under the Chairmanship of former SEBI chief UK Sinha to look into the concept of ‘Group Insolvency’ and suggest a suitable framework. The main purpose of ‘Group Insolvency’ is to recommend a complete regulatory framework to facilitate insolvency resolution and liquidation of debtors in a corporate group within the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).
3. Nirmala Sitharaman recently inaugurated India’s second Defence Industrial Corridor in Tamil Nadu. The first such corridor was inaugurated in which state?
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor in the Tiruchirapalli district of Tamil Nadu on January 20. The Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor is India’s second defence industrial corridor after the first one was launched in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh August 2018 at a cost of Rs 3,732 crore.
4. The government of India has recently made Aadhaar cards as valid documents for Indians to travel to Nepal and which other country?
Answer: Bhutan
Explanation: Home Ministry has notified that Aadhaar cards are now valid travel documents for Indians under 15 and over 65 travelling to Nepal and Bhutan. For people not in this age bracket Aadhaar card will not be a valid document to enter the countries like Nepal and Bhutan where Visa is not mandatory for Indians.
5. How much amount has been raised by the State Bank of India through bonds from the overseas market recently?
Answer: USD 1.25 billion
Explanation: State Bank of India has raised US $ 1.25 billion through bonds from the overseas market.The bonds of SBI were listed on the Global Securities Market (GSM) platform managed by India International Exchange IFSC Ltd (INDIA INX). BSE is the parent organisation of INDIA INX.
6. Which team has topped the Khelo India Youth Games 2019?
Answer: Maharashtra
Explanation: The second edition of the Khelo India Youth Games concluded on January 20 2019 in Pune, which began on January 9 at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex. Vijay- the tiger and Jaya- the black buck were the mascot of the tournament while the anthem was “Aur khelna chahte hain hum…Khel mein hi masti hai….khel se abaad honge hum” Hosts Maharashtra won the overall tournament with total 228 medals.
7. Which country topped the list of the latest survey by the WEF on people expecting their nation to help other countries?
Answer: India
Explanation: As per a global public opinion survey carried out by World Economic Forum , India has topped when it comes to people expecting their nation to help other countries.
8. 113 years old world’s oldest man Masazo Nonaka passed away recently. He hailed from which country?
Answer: Japan
Explanation: The world’s oldest man named Masazo Nonaka of age 113 has died at his home in Japan. He was certified by Guinness World Records in April 2018 as the world’s oldest living man at 112 years and 259 days.
9. Stefan Lofven has been elected as the Prime Minister of which country?
Answer: Sweden
Explanation: Sweden’s parliament has elected Prime Minister Stefan Lofven to a second four-year term. The Social Democrat leader won by 153 votes to 115 in September elections to be re-elected to the post.
10. Which state will host the World Integrated Medicine Forum 2019?
Answer: Goa
Explanation: The 2nd edition of the World Integrated Medicine Forum 2019 will be held in Goa from 23-25 January, 2019. The theme of the event is :Regulation of Homeopathic Medical Products; Advancing Global Collaboration’.
1. The ‘Agri-Vision 2019’ Conference was held in which city?
Answer: Hyderabad
Explanation: The two days conference ‘Agri-Vision 2019’ was inaugurated in Hyderabad, Telangana by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. The conference was held from January 17-18, 2019. The theme of the conference was ‘Envisioning Agro Solutions for Smart and Sustainable Agriculture’.
2. Atin Bandyopadhyay who died recently was a well known _________
Answer: Writer
Explanation: Sahitya Akademi award winning Bengali writer Atin Bandyopadhyay passed away at 85. Winner of 2001 Sahitya Akademi award for his compilation of short stories ‘Panchashati Galpo’, Bandyopadhyay had also penned popular fictions like ‘Nilkantha Pakhir Khonje’, ‘Aloukik Jaljaan’, ‘Nil Timi’, ‘Ekti Jaler Rekha’ in his illustrious career spanning over decades.
3. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) was established in which year?
Answer: 2016
Explanation: It was established on 1 October 2016
4. The Pravasi Bhartiya Divas 2019 has been organised in which city?
Answer: Varanasi
Explanation: The 15th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations began in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on January 21, 2019 at the Bachelor Trade Facilitation Center. The theme of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019 is “Role of Indian Diaspora in building New India”.
5. What will be the growth rate of Indian economy for the year 2019 according to the latest update of IMF?
Answer: 7.5%
Explanation: International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted India’s GDP growth rate at 7.5 percent in 2019 and 7.7 per cent in 2020. The IMF said India’s growth rate in 2018 was 7.3 per cent.
6. India has surpassed which country to become the second largest steel producer in the world?
Answer: Japan
Explanation: India has surged past Japan to become the second largest steel producer in the world with expansion in output backed by a sound growth in demand. According to World Steel Association, India produced 96.92 million tonnes of crude steel during the first eleven months of 2018 compared to 92. 39 million tonnes during the same period of 2017, representing a growth of 4.9 percent.
7. What is the total share of LIC in the IDBI Bank?
Answer: 51%
Explanation: IDBI Bank on January 21, 2019 announced that LIC has completed acquisition of 51 percent controlling stake in the bank. The merger was announced in June 2018. The present MD & CEO of IDBI bank Rakesh Sharma will continue to be the managing director and CEO of the bank.
8. Which bank has launched a new premium savings account named “The ONE” for upwardly-mobile male customers?
Answer: ICICI Bank
Explanation: ICICI Bank has launched a new premium savings account for upwardly-mobile male customers, named ‘The ONE’. It is available in two variants – Magnum and Titanium. It offers the account holder with a range of benefits including the option of opting for health and term life insurance. It also waives the processing fees for home loans for account holders.
9. Who is the founder of the National Women’s Party (NWP), an all-women political party recently launched in India?
Answer: Shwetha Shetty
Explanation: India’s first-ever all-women political party — the National Women’s Party (NWP) has been launched on January 21, 2019 in Mumbai. It will contest election on 283 seats of the 545 Lok Sabha seats in the 2019 elections. The NWP has been founded Dr Shwetha Shetty, a medical professional and a social activist.
10. Name the initiative launched by the Maruti Suzuki India to promote innovation in the automobile and mobility space?
Answer: MAIL
Explanation: Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) has launched an initiative Mobility & Automobile Innovation Lab (MAIL) to promote innovation in the automobile and mobility space. Under the initiative the company will identify innovative and cutting-edge solutions through startups, which are futuristic and customer oriented.
1. The India Steel 2019 International Exhibition & Conference On Steel Industry has been organised in which city
Answer: Mumbai
Explanation: The 4 edition of the International Exhibition & Conference On Steel Industry “India Steel 2019” will be held at Mumbai Exhibition Center, Mumbai on January 22-24, 2019. The three-day event is a joint initiative taken by the Ministry of Steel, Government of India and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
2. What was the rate of economic growth of China for the year 2018 as per National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of China?
Answer: 6.6%
Explanation: China’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on January 21, 2019 announced that Chinese economy grew at 6.6 per cent in 2018. This is the slowest rate since 1990. In 1990 it was 3.9%. Recently China announced its growth rate at 6.8 per cent in 2017.
3. How many National Highways Projects were launched by Nitin Gadkari recently in Andhra Pradesh under Setu Bhartam programme
Answer: 39
Explanation: The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 39 National Highways Projects in Andhra Pradesh on January 21, 2019. These projects are part of the Setu Bhartam programme and include construction of eleven Road Over Bridges(ROBs).
4. How much amount has been granted by India to Sri Lanka for the modernization of Swami Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic Studies of Eastern University in Sri Lanka?
Answer: USD 1.51 billion
Explanation: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and Sri Lanka on January 21, 2019 to help in providing modern infrastructural facilities to Swami Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic Studies of Eastern University in Batticaloa district of Sri Lanka. Under the MoU, the Government of India will provide a grant of SLR 275 million (USD 1.51 million) to Sri Lanka.
5. Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, who is the Chief Guest for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019 is the Prime Minister of which country?
Answer: Mauritius
Explanation: The programme will be officially inaugurated on January 22, 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth who is the Chief Guest of the event.
6. Which country is the largest producer of Steel in the world?
Answer: China
Explanation: China maintained its position at the top with 857 million tonnes of steel production.
7. Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu, regarded as the walking God, was a well known spiritual leader belonging to which state?
Answer: Karnataka
Explanation: Dr Shivakumara Swami, the head pontiff of five-centuries-old Sree Siddaganga Mutt in Tumakuru, Karnataka passed away at the age of 111. The Indian spiritual leader, humanitarian and educationist, Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu, was a Lingayat seer. He was often known as “the walking god” in the state.
8. According to the IMF, the global GDP growth for the year 2019 has been projected at ___________ percent
Answer: 3.5%
Explanation: : IMF has lowered its global GDP growth projections for 2019 to 3.5% and for 2020 to 3.6%. Earlier the prediction by IMF for both 2019 and 2020 was 3.7%.
9. Who has been awarded the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year 2018?
Answer: Virat Kholi
Explanation: Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year: Virat Kohli ; ICC Test Player of the Year: Virat Kohli; ICC ODI Player of the Year: Virat Kohli.
10. The foundation stone of the Keerian – Gandial Bridge has been laid in which state?
Answer: Jammu & Kashmir
Explanation: Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated a 1210- meter span-Keerian – Gandial bridge over the river Ravi in Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir. The Keerian – Gandial bridge has been constructed at a cost of Rs 158.84 crore.
1. The Annual Meeting of World Economic Forum (WEF) is held in which city?
Answer: Davos
Explanation: The Annual Meeting of World Economic Forum (WEF) began in Davos, Switzerland on January 22, 2019. The theme of the annual meet 2019 is “Globalization 4.0: Shaping a Global Architecture in the Age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution”. Th event will conclude on January 25, 2019.
2. Which country’s President has been invited as the State Guest of Honour for Republic Day 2019 by Indian Government?
Answer: South Africa
Explanation: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be on two day visit to India on 25-26 January, 2019. He has been invited as a State Guest of Honour for Republic Day 2019 by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
3. Who will head the government constituted high level standing committee on affordable medicines and health products (SCAMHP)?
Answer: Niti Aayog Member (Health)
Explanation: The Union Government has constituted a high power committee headed by a Niti Aayog member (Health), to monitor pricing of medicines and healthcare products. The committee will be the recommending body to National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA). It means the committee will overtake the central role of the NPPA in setting drug prices. Till date, NPPA had the responsibility of implementing Drug Price Control Orders (DPCO) like setting prices, enforcement, use of powers in public interest, price approvals etc.
4. Raghbir Singh Bhola who passed away was a former renowned player of____________
Answer: Hockey
Explanation: Former India hockey player Raghbir Singh Bhola has passed away aged 92. He was a twotime Olympic medallist.
5. What is the rank of India in most attractive destination for global CEOs as per a PwC survey?
Answer: ([latex]4^{th}[/latex])
Explanation: India has surpassed the UK to become fourth most attractive destination for global CEOs as per a PwC survey. The survey result was released on the first day of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting being held in Davos, Switzerland.
6. The All-Women RPF Squad named as ‘JOYMATI BAHINI’ has been inaugurated in which state for the safety of women in trains?
Answer: Guwahati, Assam
Explanation: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Lumding Division in Assam has launched a dedicated RPF all Women Squad named as ‘JOYMATI BAHINI’ for enhancing the security of women around Guwahati region within railway premises and trains. Launched formally at the Kamkhaya Railway Station in Guwahati, the JOYMATI BAHINI will comprise of women sub-inspector and constables of the Railway Protection Force.
7. How many States and Union Territories are being covered under the largest coastal defence Exercise SEA VIGIL 2019 of the Indian Navy?
Answer: 13
Explanation: Indian Navy has commenced the largest coastal defence Exercise SEA VIGIL off the Indian coast on January 22, 2019. It is a two day exercise. Exercise SEA VIGIL, a first of its kind, is being undertaken along the entire 7516.6 km coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone of India and is involving all the 13 coastal States and Union Territories along with all maritime stakeholders, including the fishing and coastal communities.
8. Which country has announced to organise the Bhojpuri Festival in 2020?
Answer: Mauritius
Explanation: Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, while delivering the keynote address as the chief guest at the inauguration of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, announced that for the first time, Mauritius will organise Bhojpuri Festival in 2020.
9. The Museum on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Indian National Army has been inaugurated at Red Fort on which birth anniversary of the iconic leader?
Answer: 122
Explanation: The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Subhash Chandra Bose Museum at the iconic Red Fort on January 23, 2019 to mark his 122nd birth anniversary. He inaugurated a set of 4 museums, spanning three centuries, that will together be known as Kranti Mandir. It marks a tribute to the revolutionary zeal and courage of the great freedom fighters.
10. As per the recent predictions of CRISIL Ratings, what will be the GDP of Indian economy for the fiscal 2019-20?
Answer: 7.3%
Explanation: Crisil Ratings has predicted India’s growth rate at 7.3 per cent in 2019-20 and 7.2 percent in 2018-19 up from 6.7 per cent in 2017-18. It said the current account deficit (CAD) would reduce to 2.4 percent of GDP in fiscal 2020 from 2.6 per cent in fiscal 2019.
1. The Union government has launched a new Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar on Disaster Management. The award has been named after which freedom fighter?
Answer: Subhash Chandra Bose
Explanation: Government of India has announced to set up an annual award titled Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar to acknowledge the contribution and selfless service of organisations and individuals in Disaster Management. This award will be announced every year on 23 January on the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The first edition of the award as given on January 23, 2019 to the 8th Battalion of National Disaster Response Force located at Ghaziabad
2. What is the rank of India in the 2019 Global Talent Competitive Index (GTCI) ?
Answer: 80
Explanation: India ranks 80th out of 125 countries in the Global Talent Competitive Index (GTCI) 2019, released by INSEAD business school in partnership with Tata Communications and Adecco Group. The index has been topped by Switzerland. Singapore, US, Norway and Denmark are the top five countries on the list respectively.
3. The UN’s World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2019 estimated the Indian economy to grow at __________ percent in the financial year 2019-20
Answer: 7.6%
Explanation: According to the UN’s World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2019, India’s GDP growth is expected to accelerate to 7.6 per cent in 2019-20. India’s GDP growth rate for 2018-19 as per UN is 7.4%. The report further said the global economy would continue to grow at a steady pace of around 3 per cent in 2019 and 2020.
4. Who has been conferred with the 2017 Saraswati Samman?
Answer: Sitanshu Yashaschandra
Explanation: The 27th Saraswati Samman was conferred upon eminent Gujarati poet Sitanshu Yashaschandra on January 22, 2019. Organised by the K K Birla Foundation, the award for 2017 was given to Yashaschandra for his poetry collection, ‘Vakhar’, published in 2009.
5. The Maharashtra government has tied up with which bank to offer limited banking services through Fair Price Shops to the far flung rural populations?
Answer: Yes Bank
Explanation: In a unique initiative, the Maharashtra government has collaborated with the private sector Yes Bank to enable Fair Price Shops to offer limited banking services to the far flung rural populations. Under this first-ever initiative, through the e-PDS programme, ration shops in the state will be taken on board as Business Correspondent Agents’ (BCAs) of Yes Bank.
6. What is the rank of India in the Bloomberg 2019 Innovative Index?
Answer: 54
Explanation: India has been ranked at 54th position among the world’s most innovative countries, according to Bloomberg 2019 Innovative Index. South Korea has retained the top spot with a score of 87.38, while Germany scored 87.30 to be second on the list. Finland is third.
7. The Global Talent Competitive Index (GTCI) 2019 has been released by__________
Answer: INSEAD
8. The Kranti Mandir launched by PM Modi at Red Fort on January 23, 2019 is a set of how many Museums?
Answer: 4
Explanation: The 4 museums under the Kranti Mandir within Red Fort complex include:
Museum on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Indian National Army
Yaad-e-Jallian Museum on Jallianwala Bagh and World War 1
Museum on 1857- India’s First War of Independence
Drishyakala- a Museum on Indian Art
9. The Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana is government sponsored tour that will take place ________
Answer: Bi-annually
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana on 22 January 2019 to promote religious tourism in the country. Under the scheme, a group of Indian diaspora will be taken on a government-sponsored tour of religious places in India twice a year.
10. Name the Minister who has been given the additional charge of the portfolio of the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs
Answer: Piyush Goyal
Explanation: The Railway and Coal Minister Shri Piyush Goyal has been given the additional charge of the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs, since Arun Jaitley is currently undergoing medical treatment in United States.
1. Who has been named as the new MD and CEO of the Yes Bank to replace Rana Kapoor?
Answer: Ravneet Singh Gill
Explanation: Ravneet Singh Gill has been named the new MD and CEO of Yes Bank with effect from March 1, 2 019. Presently he is the CEO of Deutsche Bank India. He will replace Rana Kapoor as the MD and CEO whose terms end on January 31, 2019.
2.When is the National Girl Child Day (NGCD) observed?
Answer: January 24
Explanation: India observes the National Girl Child Day (NGCD) annually on January 24 since 2008. The theme of NGCD 2019 is “Empowering Girls for a Brighter Tomorrow”.
3. The Indian Africa Field Training Exercise (IAFTX) 2019 will be held in which city?
Answer: Pune
Explanation: The Indian Africa Field Training Exercise (IAFTX) 2019 will be held in Pune from March 18 – 27, 2019. The IAFTX-2019 is a positive step towards growing political and military ties with the member nations of African continent and will boost the already strong strategic cooperation between the countries
4. Parthasarathi Mukherjee has been re-appointed as the Managing Director of which bank?
Answer: Lakshmi Vilas Bank
Explanation: Parthasarathi Mukherjee has been reappointed as the managing director of Lakshmi Vilas Bank for another term of 2 years.
5. INS Kohassa is a new Naval Air Facility commissioned in which state/UT?
Answer: Andaman & Nicobar Island
Explanation: The Naval Air Station (NAS) Shibpur in Andaman & Nicobar was commissioned as INS Kohassa by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba on 24 January 2019 to enhance the operational capability of Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC).. INS Kohassa has been named after a White-Bellied Sea Eagle, which is a large bird of prey, endemic to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This will be the 3rd Naval Air Facility after INS Utkarsh at Port Blair and INS Baaz at Campbell Bay in the Andaman.
6. Cricketer Johan Botha belongs to which country?
Answer: South Africa
Explanation: Cricketer Johan Botha announced retirement from all forms of cricket. He played for South Africa. He was an all rounder for South Africa team.
7. The International Day of Education will be observed annually on which date?
Answer: January 24
Explanation: The first International Day of Education was observed on January 24, 2019. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution on December 3 to declare January 24 as International Day of Education.
8. What is the constituency of the Union Minister of Railways?
Answer: Rajya Sabha, Maharashtra
Explanation: Minister responsible- Piyush Goyal
9. The Supreme Court has reconstituted the 5 judge bench formed to hear the Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute in Ayodhya. Apart from Justice Abdul Nazeer, who is the other newly inducted member of the bench?
Answer: Justice Ashok Bhushan
Explanation: The Supreme Court of India has re-constituted the five-judge Constitution Bench to hear the politically sensitive Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute in Ayodhya. The new bench includes the names of Justice Abdul Nazeer and Justice Ashok Bhushan. The members of the new Bench comprises of Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi (Head) and Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S A Nazeer.
10. When is the National Voters’ Day observed in India?
Answer: January 25
Explanation: India observes “National Voters’ Day” every year on January 25 to encourage more young voters to take part in the political process. The day has been started from January 25, 2011 to mark the Foundation day of Election Commission of India, which was established on 25th January 1950. The theme of 9th edition of the National Voters’ Day (NVD 2019) is, “No voter to be left behind.”
1. Which launch vehicle was used by ISRO to successfully launch the satellites Microsat-R and Kalamsat-V2?
Answer: PSLV C44
Explanation: India successfully launched military satellite Microsat-R and students-built nano-satellite Kalamsat-V2 on January 24, 2019 from the First Launch Pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota. PSLV-C44 successfully injected the 740-kg primary satellite Microsat-R and 1.2 kg Kalamsat-V2 into theirdesignated orbits.
2. When India does celebrate the National Tourism Day?
Answer: January 25
Explanation: National Tourism Day of India: January 25 The day was established by the Indian government to raise awareness of the importance of tourism for the country’s economy.
3. Kerala will soon launch ‘Pravasi Dividend Pension Scheme’ for Non Resident Keralites. The scheme will involve one time payment of Rs ____________
Answer: Rs 5 lakh
Explanation: The state government of Kerala has planned to launch a ‘Pravasi Dividend Pension Scheme’ to provide regular pension to Non Resident Keralites on a one-time payment of Rs 5 lakh. The one-time payment of Rs 5 lakh will be deposited with KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) for financing infrastructure projects.
4. Who is the newly elected King of Malaysia?
Answer: Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah
Explanation: Sultan of Pahang, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has been elected as the new king of Malaysia on January 24, 2019. Sultan Abdullah will formally take over the throne on Jan 31, 2019 for a term of five years. He is of 59 years. Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah has been elected deputy king.
5. Krishna Sobti passed away recently. She was well known for her writings in which language?
Answer: Hindi
Explanation: Eminent Hindi fiction writer and essayist Krishna Sobtipassed away in Delhi after brief illness. She was 93. She received prestigious awards like Sahitya Akademi, Jnanpith awards and was also offered Padma Bhushan, which she had declined.
6. Who is the Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)?
Answer: Bibek Debroy
Explanation: The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) has estimated India’s economic growth to remain in the range 7-7.5 percent in the next few years despite global and structural challenges. Currently PMEAC chairman post is held by Bibek Debroy.
7. The India Heritage Walk Festival (IHWF) 2019 will be organised by UNESCO in partnership with ____________
Answer: Sahapedia
Explanation: The second edition of the India Heritage Walk Festival (IHWF) will take place from February 2-28, 2019 across 37 cities of India, with inaugural walk of the edition stating in Ahmedabad on February 2. The India Heritage Walk Festival is a month-long celebration of India’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage with a focus on heritage education and walks for people with special needs. It is organised by Sahapedia in partnership with UNESCO.
8. Recently an SC bench of judges upheld the constitutional validity of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016. Who headed the bench?
Answer: Justice R F Nariman
Explanation: The Supreme Court on January 25, 2019 upheld the constitutional validity of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016. A bench headed by Justice R F Nariman said that the bench has upheld the constitutional validity “in its entirety”. The bench consisted of Navin Sinha apart from Justice Nariman.
9. India observed its ____________ Republic Day on January 26, 2019
Answer: ([latex]70^{th}[/latex])
Explanation: India is celebrating its 70th Republic Day on January 26, 2019 with the main function organized at Rajpath in the New Delhi. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was the Chief Guest this year.
10. Who has been honored with the 2019 Ashok Chakra award?
Answer: Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani
Explanation: Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani, a militant-turned-soldier, was awarded the Ashoka Chakra 2019 posthumously by President Ram Nath Kovind on January 26, 2019 for sacrificing his life in a counter-terror operation against six terrorists in Hirapur village near Batgund in Shopian in Kashmir in November 2018. The India’s highest peacetime gallantry honour was received by Wani’s wife and mother at the Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath.
1. When is the International Customs Day (ICD) observed?
Answer: January 26
Explanation: The International Customs Day (ICD) is observed every year on January 26 to recognize the role of custom officials and agencies in maintaining border security. The slogan for 2019 ICD is “SMART borders for seamless Trade, Travel and Transport.”
2. What is the rank of India in the GDPR readiness index for 2019?
Answer: Sixth
Explanation: Global networking leader Cisco has said that India is the sixth leading nation globally in the GDPR readiness index. Nearly 65 per cent of Indian organisations are better prepared for the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
3. Who has been conferred with the 2019 Bharat Ratna Award?
Answer: Pranab Mukherjee, Bhupen Hazarika and Nanaji Deshmukh
Explanation: Former President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has been conferred with the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna 2019. Additionally, late Assamese singer Bhupen Hazarika and late social activist Nanaji Deshmukh have also be awarded with the Bharat Ratna, posthumously.
4. Under the Rs 207 crore Irrigation Tax Waiver scheme of Chhattisgarh, the state government will waive off loan taken by farmers till___________
Answer: October 2018
Explanation: Chhattisgarh, chief minister Bhupesh Baghel on January 26, 2019 announced that the Irrigation Tax (Sinchai Kar) for farmers in the states till October 2018 will be waived off. This will amount to Rs 207 crore.
5. Who has won the 2019 women’s single title at Australian Open?
Answer: Naomi Osaka
Explanation: Japan’s Naomi Osaka defeated Czech Republic’s Petra Kvitova 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-4 in the women’s single final to win 2019 Australian Open title at Melbourne. This is her second major Grand Slam title. She also won the 2018 US Open title where she defeated Serena Williams.
6. Padma awards are conferred in how many categories?
Answer: 3
Explanation: Padma Awards is one of the highest civilian Awards in India. They are conferred in three categories namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The awards are announced every year on the occasion of Republic Day on January 26. The 2019 Padma Award winners list comprises 4 Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri Awards.
7. Which word has been selected as the Hindi Word of the Year for 2018 by Oxford Dictionaries?
Answer: Nari Sakti
Explanation: Oxford Dictionaries has announced ‘Nari Shakti’ as its Hindi Word of the Year for 2018. The announcement was made at the Jaipur Literature Festival.
8. Which state has launched the Yuva Swabhiman Yojana to provide employment to the urban poor youth?
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has announced the launch of the ‘Yuva Swabhiman Yojana’ for employment of youths from the economically weaker sections in urban areas on the occasion of 70th Republic Day of India.
9. Michel Legrand was a well known music composer hailing from which country?
Answer: France
Explanation: French musical composer and jazz pianist, Michel Legrand passed away on January 26, 2019 in Paris. He was 86. Legrand won three Oscars. His received his first Oscar award in 1969 for the song ‘The Windmills of Your Mind’ from the film ‘The Thomas Crown Affair’.
10. The Bharat Parv 2019 has been organised at which place?
Answer: Red Fort
Explanation: The 4th edition of ‘Bharat Parv’ showcasing the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat began at Red Fort in Delhi on January 26, 2019. The 5-day event will end on January 31 and has been organised by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with other central Ministries
1. India’s first engine-less Train 18 has been renamed as_____________?
Answer: Vande Bharat Express
Explanation: India’s first indigenously developed locomotive-less semi-high speed train, Train 18, has been named as ‘Vande Bharat Express’. The decision regarding the change of name was taken based on the made-in-India status of the train.
2. Who has won the Men’s single title at the 2019 Australian Open?
Answer: Novak Djokovic
Explanation:Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-2, 6-3, to win his 7th Australian Open Men’s Singles title at Melbourne on January 27. This is also the 15th Grand Slam title for the Serbian world number one.
3. The Kochi Refinery is the largest state owned refinery in India which is owned by ___________
Answer: BPCL
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kochi, Kerala on January 27, 2019 where he laid foundation stone for various projects. He unveiled a plaque to dedicate to the nation, Rs 16,500 crore integrated refinery expansion complex of the public sector Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) at the Kochi Refinery.
4. Who is the Regional Director of the South East Asia Region of the World Health Organisation?
Answer: Poonam Khetrapal Singh
Explanation: Poonam Khetrapal Singh has been appointed as the Regional Director of the South-East Asia region of the World Health Organization (WHO) for a second five-year term. The WHO Executive Board unanimously re-appointed Khetrapal Singh on January 26 after she was unanimously nominated by 11 member countries of the region for another five years.She is the first woman to become Regional Director of WHO South East Asia Region.
5. Name the winner of the Women’s Single Indonesia Masters 2019 title?
Answer: Saina Nehwal
Explanation: Saina Nehwal was declared the winner of the Women’s Single title at Indonesia Masters 2019 on January 27. The Indian shuttler was crowned the title as the reigning Olympic and World Champion Carolina Marin pulled out in the opening game of their Summit clash in Jakarta due to knee injury.
6. When is the International Holocaust Remembrance Day observed?
Answer: January 27
Explanation: International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust is observed on 27 January every year since 2006 to commemorate the anniversary of the tragedy of the Holocaust that occurred during the Second World War. The theme of the Holocaust remembrance and education activities in 2019 is “Holocaust Remembrance: Demand and Defend Your Human Rights”.
7. PM Modi inaugurated an All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, AIIMS in which city of Tamil Nadu on January 27, 2019?
Answer: Madurai
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, AIIMS at Thoppur near Madurai in Tamil Nadu at a cost of Rs 1,264 crore on January 27, 2019. He also inaugurated three super specialty blocks in the government medical colleges in Madurai, Tirunelveli and Thanjavur at a total cost of Rs 450 Crore under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).Mr Modi also dedicated 12 post office Passport Sewa Kendras in Tamil Nadu to the nation.
8. Who has manufactured the Train 18?
Answer: Integral Coach Factory (ICF)
Explanation: Train 18 has been manufactured by Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai in the period of 18 months under ‘Make in India’ program.
9. Who is the Director General of the World Health Organisation?
Answer: Tedros Adhanom
10. What will be the maximum speed of the ‘Vande Bharat Express’?
Answer: 160 kmph
1. Which state has bagged the first prize for its Tableaux at the Republic Day Parade 2019?
Answer: Tripura
Explanation: Tableaux of Tripura, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) won the first prize for the Republic Day Parade at the Rajpath on January 26, 2019. Tripura bagged the first prize in best state tableau category. Jammu and Kashmir’s tableau bagged the second position, while Punjab ended at the third place.
2. The cable stayed bridge Atal Setu has been launched in which state?
Answer: Goa
Explanation: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the 5.1-km long cable-stayed “Atal Setu” on the Mandovi river in Goa on January 27, 2019.
3. The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is conducted by which organisation?
Answer: OECD
Explanation: The HRD Ministry and OECD has signed an agreement for India’s participation in Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in the year 2021. PISA is an international survey held every three years by OECD to evaluate the education system worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students.
4. India’s first Geographic Indication (GI) store has been inaugurated at which airport?
Answer: Goa Airport
Explanation: Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu inaugurated the country’s first Geographic Indication (GI) store at Dabolim International Airport (Goa Airport) on January 28, 2019.
5. Who will head the committee formed by IRDAI to identify the Systemically Important Insurers (SIIs)?
Answer: Pravin Kutumbe
Explanation: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has constituted a 7 member committee to identify the Systemically Important Insurers (SIIs), and recommend enhanced supervision measures for them. IRDAI member (finance and investment) Pravin Kutumbe will chair the committee that will have six other senior officials as members, including one as convener.
6. The Android App “Roshni” has been developed by which institution to enable Visually impaired in recognizing the currency notes?
Answer: Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar
Explanation: The Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar in Punjab has come up with an Android App named “Roshni” that will help the Visually Impaired in recognizing the currency notes using image processing and analytics. The user has to bring the currency note in front of phone camera and the App would provide audio notification intimating the currency note’ denomination to the user.
7. Name the app launched by Reliance Jio to allow Jio Phone users in booking or cancelling train tickets using the app?
Answer: JioRail
Explanation: Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Jio has launched a new App called Jio Rail for its Jio Phone and Jio Phone 2 users to enable them in booking tickets from their phones via the newly launched app. Jio Rail app will help customers to book and cancel tickets by using debit cards, credit cards and e-wallets. Customers can also check PNR status, train information, timings, routes, seat availability and several other services at a click of a button on their Jio Phones.
8. Who has won the Tata Steel Masters 2019 Chess Tournament?
Answer: Magnus Carlsen
Explanation: Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand finished third following a draw with compatriot Vidit Gujrathi in the 13th and final round of the Tata Steel Masters 2019 held in The Netherlands. Magnus Carlsen of Norway won the event with 9 points. He has won the tournament for 7 times total. Anish Giri of Holland scored 8.5 points to be placed second.
9. Which juice has been declared as the national drink of Pakistan?
Answer: Sugarcane Juice
Explanation: The Pakistan government has declared sugarcane juice as the “national drink” of the country. The decision was based on a poll conducted by the government over twitter to decide national drink, with three options namely orange, carrot and sugarcane.
10. Chaitanya Prasad Majhi was a veteran tribal leader and the former minister of which state?
Answer: Odisha
Explanation: Veteran tribal leader and former Odisha minister Chaitanya Prasad Majhi passed away in Bhubaneswar following brief illness on January 28. He was 90. Chaitanya Majhi had served as a Union minister in late Indira Gandhi’s cabinet.
1. Which state has won the Best State Award in the Swasth Bharat Yatra campaign organised by FSSAI
Answer: Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Best State Overall – Tamil Nadu for its exemplary participation. Best States with population above 3 crores – Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Best States having population less than 3 crores – Punjab, Goa and Delhi. FSSAI Special awards – Meghalaya, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttrakhand for their participation despite their hilly and difficult terrain.
2. The International Stock Taking Conference on Tiger Conservation 2019 was held in which city
Answer: New Delhi
Explanation: The 3rd edition of the Stock Taking Conference on Tiger Conservation was held in New Delhi from January 28-29, 2019. This is the second time that India hosted the conference after 2012.
3. Which state has launched the Jiban Sampara Project to aware tribal groups about various government schemes and initiatives?
Answer: Odisha
Explanation: The Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the fortnight long popular annual Adivasi Mela (Tribal Fair) at IDCO Exhibition Ground in the state on January 26, 2019. The fair will conclude on February 9. As a part of the event, the minister also announced Jiban Samparka Project.
4. The first ever National Conference on “Prison Design” has been organised in which city?
Answer: Visakhapatnam
Explanation: The first ever National Conference on “Prison Design” began in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh on 29th January 2019. The two-day conference is being hosted by the Director General Prison, Andhra Pradesh on the behalf of State and is being sponsored by the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D).
5. Which Indian company has topped the Brand Finance Global 500 list of 2019?
Answer: Tata Group
Explanation: Brand finance has released the Brand Finance Global 500 report on the world’s most valuable brands across the world. The top spot has been occupied by Amazon followed by Apple on second and Google on third. For India Tata Group is the only brand in top 100 and is ranked at 86. Also 9 Indian companies have found place in this 500 brand ranking
6. Based on the ‘Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Companies, 2017-18’ report of RBI, the FDI in FY19 was what percent more than the FDI in FY18?
Answer: 18%
Explanation: As per RBI data on ‘Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Companies, 2017-18’ the FDI in 2017-18 was 28,24,600 crore. There was an increase of Rs 4,33,300 crore from the previous fiscal year. The growth was around 18% from the previous fiscal. Overseas direct investment (ODI) by Indian companies increased by 5 per cent to Rs 5.28 lakh crore.
7. Indian player Kartik Sharma recently represented the country in which sports to clinch the Championship title
Answer: Golf
Explanation: Gurgaon based Kartik Sharma won the New South Wales men’s Amateur Golf Championship 2019 held in Australia. Kartik defeated Australia’s Nathan Barberie in the scheduled 36-hole final to emerge as champion. He has been playing for India since the age of 10.
8 What is the new GST rate applicable on HAJ tour for 2019?
Answer: 5%
Explanation: The GST Council has reduced the GST for all religious tours facilitated by the Government of India to 5 percent. These would include pilgrimages like Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the Haj, and the Pashupatinath tour. Haj is facilitated by the Ministry of Minority Affairs in coordination with the Haj Committee of India (HCOI). It is undertaken only through chartered flights and the Yatra is also done mainly through chartered flights. Journeys through chartered flights attracted 18 percent GST, which has now been fixed at 5 %.
9. George Fernandes who passed away recently was a veteran _____________
Answer: Politician
Explanation: Former Defence Minister George Fernandes passed away in New Delhi on January 29, 2019. He was 88. Fernandes was a key member of the Janata Dal and is the founder of the Samata Party. He was the defence minister in the Vajpayee government. He has held several other ministerial portfolios including communications, industry, and railways other than defence.
10. The Common Services Centres (CSCs) has launched its first ‘cash and carry’ stores in which city?
Answer: Moradabad
Explanation: Common Services Centres (CSCs) under the Digital India mission has launched the first ‘cash and carry’ stores in Moradabad district, Uttar Pradesh (Kanth Tehsil). CSC will now promote Cash and Carry store one in every block across the country.
1. Prime Minister Modi recently laid the foundation stone of National Salt Satyagraha Memorial and Museum in which state?
Answer: Gujarat
Explanation: He also inaugurated state-of-the-art super specialty, Rasilaben Sevantilal Shah Venus Hospital and laid foundation stone for extension of Terminal Building of Surat Airport
2. India observed _________ death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 2019
Answer: ([latex]71^{st}[/latex])
Explanation: Every year on January 30, India pays homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi to mark his death anniversary. The day is also observed as Martyrs’ Day. 2019 marked his ([latex]71^{st}[/latex]) death anniversary.
3. The “Artisan Speak” was organised by the Ministry of Textile in which state?
Answer: Maharashtra
Explanation: The agreement were signed during an event “Aritsan Speak” at the UNESCO World Heritage site Elephant Caves near Mumbai to showcase the GI (Geographical Indication) Textiles of India. The first-of-its-kind event was organized by the Ministry of Textiles in partnership with IMG Reliance.
4. Who has been honored with the annual Carnot Prize for the year 2018?
Answer: Piyush Goyal
Explanation: The Kleinman Center for Energy Policy at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design has presented the 4th annual Carnot Prize to Union Minister Railways & Coal Shri Piyush Goyal. The award recognizes India’s path breaking transformations in energy sector by eliminating energy poverty with sustainable energy solutions. The award money that the Minister will receive as part of the 2018 Carnot Prize, will be donated to the International Solar Alliance to institute the Diwakar Award.
5. The Employees Provident Fund Organisation has reconstituted its Central Board of Trustees (CBT) under which section of Employees’ Provident Fund & Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952
Answer: Section 5A
Explanation: The Central Government has reconstituted the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPFO under section 5A of Employees’ Provident Fund & Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952, after the five-year tenure of the earlier board came to an end.
6. What is the rank of India in 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International
Answer: 78
Explanation: India has remarkably improved its ranking by three points and moved to 78th position on Global Corruption Index in 2018 with a score of 41. The Corruption Perceptions Index is released annually by global anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International. The 2018 Index was topped by Denmark followed by New Zealand among 180 countries.
7. 317. Odisha has increased the beneficiary target for landless agricultural household under KALIA scheme to___________ lakh from previous 1 lakh
Answer: 5 lakh
Explanation: The state government of Odisha has decided to hike the number of target beneficiaries by five-fold for farmers’ welfare scheme KALIA in the landless agricultural household category. As per the new proposal, 5 lakh beneficiaries would be targeted instead of 1 lakh earlier during 2019-20. Each beneficiary household under the landless agricultural category will get Rs 12,500 as assistance under theKrushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme.
8. Who has been appointed as the new Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS)?
Answer: G Ashok Kumar
Explanation: Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar assumed charge as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on 30 January 2019. In addition, Vice Admiral MS Pawar has assumed charge as Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff.
9. Which is the busiest airport in the world?
Answer: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Explanation: Dubai International Airport (DXB) retained its top position as the world’s busiest airport for international travel in 2018 for the fifth consecutive year. However, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia remains the world’s busiest airport overall.
10. Dilip Sadarangani has been appointed as the part time Chairman of which bank?
Answer: Federal Bank
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India has approved the appointment of Dilip Gena Sadarangani as Part Time Chairman of Federal Bank.
1. Under the Ombudsman Scheme for Digital Transactions, 2019, what will be the maximum compensation for the loss suffered due to issues in payment system?
Answer: Rs 20 lakh
Explanation: Maximum compensation under this scheme is Rs 20 lakh. (This is for the actual loss suffered due to issues in payment system). Note: The compensation that one will get is the amount of loss suffered or Rs 20 lakh whichever is lower.
2. What is the total amount of agreement signed between Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) with India to provide Naval Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile systems?
Answer: $93 million
Explanation: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has entered into $93 million agreements with India for providing Naval Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile systems to India. The contracts were entered with the Indian Navy and the Cochin Shipyard by IAI.
3. Who has been appointed as the interim MD & CEO of the Yes Bank?
Answer: Ajai Kumar
Explanation: Ajai Kumar has been appointed as the interim MD, CEO of Yes Bank, till the time when Ravneet Singh Gill assumes office as full time MD, CEO from March 01, 2019. Ajai Kumar will act as the interim MD and CEO of the bank from February 1, 2019 for one month or till Ravneet Gill assumes office as MD and CEO, whichever is earlier.
4. When is the World Leprosy Day observed?
Answer: Last Sunday of January
Explanation: The World Leprosy Day is observed annually on the last Sunday of January globally to increase the public awareness of the Leprosy or Hansen’s Disease. While, World Leprosy Day was observed globally on January 27, 2019 (the last Sunday of January), India marked the day on January 30, 2019 (M K Gandhi’s death anniversary).
5. The Africa Center for Climate and Sustainable Development has been newly setup in which city?
Answer: Rome
Explanation: The Italian government has established the Africa Center for Climate and Sustainable Development in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in Rome.
6. As per the data of the CSO, what is the revised GDP growth rate of Indian Economy for the fiscal 2017- 18?
Answer: 7.2%
Explanation: Central Statistics Office (CSO) has revised the economic growth rate for India for 2017-18 upwards to 7.2%.
7. Who has taken over as the new Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command?
Answer: Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P
Explanation: Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P, took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command on 31 January 2019 at Mumbai. He succeeds Vice Admiral Girish Luthra.
8. RBI has recently freed how many banks from the restrictions of prompt corrective action plan (PCA)?
Answer: 3
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has removed the restrictions of prompt corrective action plan (PCA) onthree banks namely Bank of India (BoI), Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) and Oriental Bank of Commerce. Now there are total 8 banks under the PCA framework.
9. The common digital currency project ‘Aber’ has been launched by the Central Banks of which countries?
Answer: UAE and Saudi Arabia
Explanation: The United Arab Emirates Central Bank (UAECB) and the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (Sama)have issued a joint statement to launch the common digital currency project ‘Aber’. Aber will be used in financial settlements between the two countries through Blockchains and Distributed Ledgers technologies.
10. Name the committee which has accused Chandra Kochhar of violating ICICI bank’s code of conduct while dealing with Videocon loan case?
Answer: B.N. Srikrishna Committee
Explanation: The Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee that probed allegations against Chanda Kochhar (former MD, CEO of ICICI Bank) in the Videocon loan case, has found that she violated the bank’s code of conduct in dealing with conflict of interest and fiduciary duties in the case of loans to Videocon and had routed a part of the money to a company owned by her husband Deepak.
1. Pravin Kumar Purwar has been named as the next Chairman and Managing Director of which company?
Answer: BSNL
Explanation: Pravin Kumar Purwar has been selected for the post of Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), who will take office from July 1, 2019.
2. The Special Purpose Vehicle “INSTEX” has been launched by the European countries for trading with which country?
Answer: Iran
Explanation: Germany, France and the UK have setup a transaction channel named INSTEX — short for “Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges.” that allows non-dollar trade with Iran. This will help the European countries to trade with Iran despite the sanctions imposed on Iran by US. INSTEX is Headquartered in Paris, France and will be headed by German banker Per Fischer, a former director of Commerzbank.
3. What will be the maximum compensation for mental agony and harassment under Ombudsman Scheme for Digital Transactions, 2019?
Answer: Rs 1 lakh
Explanation: Maximum compensation for for mental agony and harassment: Rs 1 lakh.As on date, 21 Ombudsman for Digital Transactions have been appointed.
4. Who has been appointed as the new Director General of the National Cadet Corps?
Answer: Lt Gen Rajeev Chopra
Explanation: Lt Gen Rajeev Chopra assumed the appointment of Director General of National Cadet Corps (NCC)(DGNCC) in New Delhi on January 31.
5. What is the theme of the 2019 World Leprosy Day?
Answer: Ending Discrimination, Stigma and Prejudice
Explanation: The theme for 2019 is Ending Discrimination, Stigma and Prejudice.
1. Which of the following statements is/are correct with regard to “Yarn Bank Scheme?”
    (i) It is launched by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (ii) It is a component of Power Tex India scheme. (iii) It provide a corpus of 3 crores to the power loom weavers.

    A. All are correct B. None is correct C. Only (i) is correct D. Only (ii) is correct E. Only (iii) is correct.

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India had launched the Yarn Bank Scheme as one of the components of Power Tex India Scheme with an aim to avoid fluctuation in yarn price. Under the Scheme, an interest-free corpus fund up to Rs 2 crore would be provided to the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)/Consortium formed by power loom weavers.
2. The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Modi has approved the restructuring of existing National Health Agency as
    A. National Health Authority B. National Health Facility C. National Health Organisation D. National Health Mission E. National Health Fund

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Modi has approved the restructuring of existing National Health Agency as National Health Authority.
3. The Government has launched the Green - Ag: Transforming Indian Agriculture project for global environmental benefits and the conservation of critical biodiversity and forest landscapes in association with
    A. International Union for Conservation of Nature B. United Nations Environment Programme C. Earth System Governance Project D. Global Green Growth Institute E. Global Environment Facility

Answer - Option E
Explanation - The Government has launched the Green - Ag: Transforming Indian Agriculture project for global environmental benefits and the conservation of critical biodiversity and forest landscapes in association with Global Environment Facility (GEF).
4. Makaravilakku festival is organized in which of the following states of India?
    A. Telangana B. Kerala C. Tamil Nadu D. Karnataka E. Andhra Pradesh

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Makaravilakku is an annual festival held on Makar Sankranti in Kerala, India at the shrine of Sabarimala.
5. What is the name of the web-based single-window system rolled out by Government of India for environmental clearances?
    A. NIMESH B. ANIKET C. PARIVESH D. PRIKESH E. None

Answer - Option C
Explanation - An ambitious web-based single-window system PARIVESH (Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous and Environmental Single-window Hub) for environmental clearances will be rolled-out at state levels by January 15.
6. The Panel headed by IIT-Hyderabad chairman has suggested All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), not to allow setting up of new Engineering colleges from 2020. Who headed the panel
    A. B V M Mohan Reddy B. B V R Mohan Reddy C. B V D Mohan Reddy D. B V C Mohan Reddy E. B V N Mohan Reddy

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Panel headed by IIT-Hyderabad chairman B V R Mohan Reddy has suggested All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), not to allow setting up of new Engineering colleges from 2020.
7. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone for the Mandal Dam Project. On which of the following rivers is it situated?
    A. Betwa B. Koel C. Luni D. Musi E. Koyna

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone for the Mandal Dam Project on the North Koel River. The Mandal Dam Project would be boon for the states of Jharkhand and Bihar.
8. The Asia Competitiveness Institute (ACI) has released the Ease of Doing Business Rankings for Indian states. Which Indian state has topped it?
    A. Madhya Pradesh B. Punjab C. Maharashtra D. Gujarat E. Andhra Pradesh

Answer - Option E
Explanation - The Asia Competitiveness Institute (ACI) has released the Ease of Doing Business Rankings for Indian states. Andhra Pradesh has topped the Ease of Doing Business rankings. Maharashtra and Delhi came in second and third place respectively.
9. Complete the statement. The Government of Maharashtra has decided to give two LED bulbs, a DC fan and a mobile charging socket as freebies to farmers enrolling under the Atal Solar Krishi Pump Yojana. Under the Scheme, farmers with less than five acres will have to pay _________ of the cost of a 3 HP solar pump while farmers with more than five acres will get a 5 HP solar pump for Rs 30000.
    A. 2.5% B. 10% C. 5% D. 6% E. 8%

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Government of Maharashtra has decided to give two LED bulbs, a DC fan and a mobile charging socket as freebies to farmers enrolling under the Atal Solar Krishi Pump Yojana. Under the Scheme, farmers with less than five acres will have to pay 5 per cent of the cost of a 3 HP solar pump while farmers with more than five acres will get a 5 HP solar pump for Rs 30000.
10. Under which of the following schemes has Odisha aimed to provide good menstrual hygiene care to women of the state by giving free sanitary napkins to 17 lakh girls studying in Classes 6 to 12 in Government and Government-Aided Schools?
    A. Maitri B. Saheli C. Sakhi D. Khushi E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Khushi Scheme of Odisha aims to provide good menstrual hygiene care to women of the state. Under the Scheme, the Government will provide free sanitary napkins to 17 lakh girls studying in Classes 6 to 12 in Government and Government-Aided Schools.
1. Which of the following has become the first state in the country to create Happiness Department?
    A. Madhya Pradesh B. Punjab C. Maharashtra D. Gujarat E. Andhra Pradesh

Answer - Option A
2. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formed an expert committee to look into the various challenges being faced by MSMEs and suggest ways and measures to rejuvenate them. The eight-member committee would be chaired by
    A. Mahesh Waghlani B. Urijit Patel C. UK Sinha D. Priyam Chopra E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formed an expert committee to look into the various challenges being faced by MSMEs and suggest ways and measures to rejuvenate them. The eight-member committee would be Chaired by former Securities and Exchange Board of India Chairman UK Sinha.
3. The RBI has proposed a one-time loan restructuring scheme for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The scheme is applicable to the stressed accounts provided the total fund and non-fund based exposure to such a borrower does not surpass
    A. Rs. 20 crore B. Rs. 15 crore C. Rs. 10 crore D. Rs. 50 crore E. Rs. 25 crore

Answer - Option E
Explanation - The RBI has proposed a one-time loan restructuring scheme for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The scheme is applicable to the stressed accounts provided the total fund and non-fund based exposure to such a borrower does not surpass Rs 25 crore.
4. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a survey will capture payment habits of individuals in cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Guwahati. What is the survey called?
    A. SRHPi B. SRPHi C. SPHRi D. SPRHi E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched Survey on Retail Payment Habits of Individuals (SRPHi). The Survey will capture payment habits of individuals in cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Guwahati
5. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up an expert committee to suggest how the Central Bank should handle its reserves and whether it can transfer its surplus to the Government. Who is the head of this committee?
    A. Y. Venugopal Reddy B. Raghuram Rajan C. Shaktikanta Das D. Bimal Jalan E. D. Subbarao

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up an expert committee, headed by its Former Governor Bimal Jalan, to suggest how the Central Bank should handle its reserves and whether it can transfer its surplus to the Government.
6. Anindita Neogy Anaam has been honoured with the prestigious National Nritya Shiromani award for her contribution towards preserving and promoting the dance form across the world. Which dance form does she belong to?
    A. Bharatanatyam B. Kathak C. Odissi D. Kuchipudi E. Kathakali

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Kathak exponent Anindita Neogy Anaam has been honoured with the prestigious National Nritya Shiromani award for her contribution towards preserving and promoting the dance form across the world.
7. 106th session of the Indian Science Congress was held in
    A. Jalandhar B. Chandigarh C. Jaipur D. Pune E. Shimla

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Prime Minister, Narendra Modi delivered the inaugural address at the 106th session of the Indian Science Congress. The 106th Indian Science Congress is being held at Jalandhar. The theme of the 106th science congress is 'Future India: Science and Technology'.
8. The United Nations has decided to observe Braille Day every year on
    A. [latex]5^{th}[/latex] January B. [latex]4^{th}[/latex] January C.[latex]3^{th}[/latex] January D. [latex]2^{th}[/latex] January E. [latex]1^{th}[/latex] January

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The United Nations observed the first official World Braille Day on 4th January to createawareness about the importance of Braille.
9. Which of the following probe space crafts has become the first spacecraft to land on the far side of the Moon
    A. Chan'i 4 B. Chang'i 4 C. Chan'e 4 D. Chang'e 4 E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
10. Khelo India Youth Games 2019 are being in
    A. Pune B. Mumbai C.New Delhi D. Bhuvneshwar E.None of the above

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Khelo India Youth Games 2019 are being held at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune.
1. Which of the following two articles are amended under the 124th Constitutional Amendment?
    A. Article 13 and 14 B. Article 14 and 15 C. Article 15 and 16 D. Article 16 and 17 E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Lok Sabha has passed the 124th Constitutional Amendment Bill to provide reservations to the 'Economically Weaker Sections' of society. The Bill amends Article 15 of the Constitution to provide reservations to economically weaker sections for admission to educational institutions including private educational institutions, whether aided or unaided by the State, other than the minority educational institutions. The Bill also amends Article 16 of the Constitution to provide reservations to people from economically weaker sections in government posts. The Bill caps the reservation to economically weaker sections at 10%.
2. Fill in the gaps with the correct option. The Union Environment Minister _____ launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). It is a five-year action plan with a tentative target of ______ reduction in concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 by______, with 2017 as the base year.
    A. Ramvilas Paswan, 20-30%, 2025 B. Harsh Vardhan 25-30%, 2022 C. Ramvilas Paswan, 25-30%, 2022 D. Harsh Vardhan, 20-30%, 2024 E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). It is a five-year action plan with a tentative target of 20-30% reduction in concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 by 2024, with 2017 as the base year.
3. The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India has launched an online campaign to discover and celebrate the exceptional achievements of women, who have been driving positive agenda of social change via social media. What is the name of the campaign?
    A. Wonder-women of Web B. Web-Wonder Women C. The Web- Wonders D. Wonders of the Web-Women E. None of the above

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India has launched an online campaign Web-Wonder Women to discover and celebrate the exceptional achievements of women, who have been driving positive agenda of social change via social media
4. Under the new guidelines prescribed for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, there is a Provision of ______ interest rate per annum to be paid by the Insurance Company to farmers for any delay in settlement of claims beyond ______ days of prescribed cut off date for payment of claims.
    A. 12% and 10 B. 13% and 10 C. 10% and 10 D. 15% and 15 E. None of the above

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The operational guidelines of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) prescribed the timeline of two months of completion of Crop Cutting Experiments/harvesting period for settlement of claims by insurance companies. Provision of 12% interest rate per annum to be paid by the Insurance Company to farmers for any delay in settlement of claims beyond 10 days of prescribed cut off date for payment of claims. State Governments are required to pay 12% interest rate for delay in the release of the State share of Subsidy beyond three months of prescribed cut off date/submission of requisition by Insurance Companies.
5. The Union Minister of Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar has announced an increase ofaround 5,000 seats across the country. The increase in the number of seats was part of the Government efforts to increase the access to quality education for students, especially from rural areas. In which of the following schools/centres will these seats be increased?
    A. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas centres B. Deendayal Antondya Vidayalayas C. Atal Innovation Centres D. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
6. Which of the following index is launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development to assess the quality of school education in the states.
    A. 50-Point Grading Index B. 70-Point Grading Index C. 60-Point Grading Index D. 100-Point Grading Index E. None of the above

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Ministry of Human Resource Development has launched 70-Point Grading Index to assess the quality of school education in the states.
7. Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which of the following states?
    A. Meghalaya B. Mizoram C. Tripura D. Manipur E. Nagaland

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Gomati district of Tripura.
8. Erna Solberg is the Prime Minister of
    A. New Zealand B. Norway C. Australia D. Netherlands E. Indonesia

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg arrived in New Delhi for a three-day state visit to India at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.
9. Which of the following initiative was launched by The Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) of the United States Chamber of Commerce at the Raisina Dialogue 2019?
    A. Future Value for Innovation B. Indo-US Value for Innovation C. Innovation for New India Taxation D. Fair Value for Innovation E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) of the United States Chamber of Commerce has launched a new innovation initiative Fair Value for Innovation at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. The initiative, titled "Fair Value for Innovation", will examine economic underpinnings that would enable breakthrough innovation, and explore how policymakers can harness innovation capital in India and around the globe through research, advocacy, partnerships, and programs.
10. The recent edition of Raisina Dialogue was held in
    A. Jaipur B. New Delhi C. Goa D. Mumbai E. Chandigarh

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Raisins Dialogue is a multilateral conference held annually in New Delhi.
1. Which of the following states has withdrawn the general consent accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the cases in the state?
    A. Odisha B. Jharkhand C. Chattisgarh D. Madhya Pradesh E. Rajasthan

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Government of Chhattisgarh has withdrawn the general consent accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the cases in the state.
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Gangajal Project which aims to improve water supply to the city of
    A. Kolkata B. Patna C. Varanasi D. Kanpur E. Agra

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Gangajal Project which aims to improve water supply to the city of Agra.
3. The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu inaugurated India's longest single-lane steel cable suspension bridge over _____ in Upper Sang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
    A. Surma river B. Gumati river C. Iril river D. Siang river E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu inaugurated India's longest single-lane steel cable suspension bridge over Siang River in Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
4. What is the name of the India's longest single-lane steel cable suspension bridge inaugurated in Arunachal Pradesh?
    A. Buyarang bridge B. Biyorang bridge C. Byorung bridge D. Boyrung bridge E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu inaugurated India's longest singlelane steel cable suspension bridge over Siang River in Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The bridge is 300- metre-long and is also known as Byorung bridge.
5. Which of the following states has launched the scheme Ama Ghare LED to provide LED bulbs at free of cost to about 95 lakh families in the state?
    A. Odisha B. Jharkhand C. Chattisgarh D. Madhya Pradesh E. Rajasthan

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The government of Odisha has launched the scheme Ama Ghare LED to provide LED bulbs at free of cost to about 95 lakh families in the state.
6. Which of the following statements is/are not true regarding Gold Monetisation scheme?
    (i) The medium term tenure is for 6 to 9 years (ii) Medium and long-term deposit interest rates are decided by the RBI. (iii) The minimum deposit one can make in a gold monetisation scheme is 30 grams

    A. All are true B. None is true C. Only (i) and (ii) are not true D. Only (ii) and (iii) are not true E. Only (i) is not true

Answer - Option c
Explanation - The gold deposits can be made under 3 term deposit plans: Short term:1 to 3 years Medium term:5 to 7 years Long term:12 to 15 years Short-term deposit rates are decided by the banks concerned, while the medium and long-term deposit interest rates are decided by the Central Government.
7.The exemption limit for Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration has been increased to Rs ___ lakh from the current Rs 20 lakh to ease the cost of compliance for small taxpayers or micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) (intra state trade)
    A. 25 B. 40 C. 30 D. 50 E. 45

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The GST Council meeting on January 10 has taken the some important decisions: The exemption limit for Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration has been increased to Rs 40 lakh from the current Rs 20 lakh to ease the cost of compliance for small taxpayers or micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This exemption limit has been doubled to Rs 20 lakh for North-Eastern and hilly states. The increased exemption limit of Rs 40 lakh is applicable for those businesses who deal in goods and also do intra-state trade and not for those who do inter-state transactions.
8. Kerala has been allowed to levy a ____ per cent calamity cess on the intra-state sale of goods and services for a period of up to two years to mobilize revenues to meet the cost of rehabilitating parts of states that were ravaged by floods.
    A. 2.5% B. 1.5% C. 2% D. 1% E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Kerala has been allowed to levy a 1 per cent calamity cess on the intra-state sale of goods and services for a period of up to two years to mobilize revenues to meet the cost of rehabilitating parts of states that were ravaged by floods.
9. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Pasargad Bank to open branches in Mumbai for easing trade related transactions. Pasargad Bank is a major private bank of
    A. Iran B. Indonesia C. Nepal D. Bhutan E. None of the above

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Bank Pasargad, also known as BPI, is a major Iranian private bank offering retail, commercial and investment banking services. The company was established in 2005 as a part of the government's privatization of the banking system.
10. Who was conferred with Sushila Devi Literature Award at the Bhopal Literature and Art Festival (BLF) for the novel “Things to Leave Behind”?
    A. Ravine Tondon B. Nandita Das C. Namita Gokhale D. Sudipta Banerjee E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Writer Namita Gokhalewas awarded in the ‘Best Book of Fiction Written by a Woman Author’ category at the inaugural edition of Bhopal Literature and Art Festival (BLF) .She has won the Sushila Devi Literature Award for her novel “Things to Leave Behind”.
1. What is the name of 8-year-old boy who won the under-8 category Junior world title at the Kids’ Golf World Championship organised by US kids Golf in Malaysia to become the youngest Indian to win the title?
    A. Kshitij Vyas B. Kunal Pandey C. Kaavish Mehra D. Kartik Singh E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Gurgaon’s 8-year-old Kartik Singh won the under-8 category Junior world title at the Kids’ Golf World Championship organised by US kids Golf in Malaysia to become the youngest Indian to win the title
2. Samarkand is located in which of the following countries?
    A. Tajikistan B. Uzbekistan C. Kyrgyzstan D. Turkmenistan E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Samarkand is a city in Uzbekistan known for its mosques and mausoleums.
3. The first India-Central Asia Dialogue is organized in
    A. Samarkand, Uzbekistan B. Pavlodar, Kazakhstan C. Hisor, Tajikistan D. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The first India-Central Asia Dialogue is to be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on January 12 and 13. The Dialogue will be co-chaired by External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj and the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov.
4. Global Skill Summit 2019 was held in
    A. Jaipur B. Mumbai C. Ranchi D. Bhubhneshwar E. None

Answer - Option C
5. Who among the following has been appointed as the President of the Global Solar Council?
    A. Pranav R Mehta B. Prakash Kumar C. Pankaj Dhandiya D. Purab Pratap E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Pranav R Mehta, President of the National Solar Energy Federation of India has become the President of the Global Solar Council.
6. Who has joined the International Monetary Fund as its Chief Economist and became first woman to occupy the post of Chief Economist of IMF?
    A. Gita Samanthan B. Gita Gopinath C. Gita Vyas D. Gita Adhiraj E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Gita Gopinath has joined the International Monetary Fund as its Chief Economist. She is the first woman to occupy the post of Chief Economist of IMF.
7. Nicolas Maduro is the president of
    A. Netherlands B. Taiwan C. Norway D. Venezuela E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Nicolas Maduro was sworn in as Venezuela’s President for the 2nd term for a new 6-year term
8. Su Tseng-chang is the Prime Minister of
    A. Netherlands B. Taiwan C. Norway D. Venezuela E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen appointed 71 years old Su Tseng-chang as the new Prime Minister of Taiwan.
9. World Hindi Day is observed on
    A. January 07 B. January 08 C. January 02 D. January 15 E. January 10

Answer - Option E
Explanation - 10th January is celebrated as World Hindi Day to create awareness about the language of Hindi across the World and to present Hindi as an international language.
10. Pravasi Bhartiya Divas is observed on
    A. December 07 B. January 09 C. March 02 D. July 15 E. August 10

Answer - Option B
1. The Union Cabinet has approved India’s Currency Swap Agreement with____. The $75-billion bilateral currency swap arrangement is a milestone in mutual economic cooperation and special strategic and global partnership between two countries.
    A. Japan B. Taiwan C. Venezuela D. Nepal E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Union Cabinet has approved India’s Currency Swap Agreement with Japan. The $75-billion bilateral currency swap arrangement is a milestone in mutual economic cooperation and special strategic and global partnership between two countries.
2. Indian Army and__________________ signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Defence Salary Package.
    A. Axis Bank B. Punjab National Bank C. State Bank of India D. Bank of India E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Indian Army and Punjab National Bank (PNB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Defence Salary Package.
3. IRCTC tied up with ______________________ to provide free travel insurance to the air travelers
    A. Max Life B. Aviva C. LIC India D. Bharti AXA E. Edelweiss Tokio

Answer - Option D
Explanation - IRCTC tied up with Bharti AXA General insurance company to provide free travel insurance to the air travellers. This insurance is applicable to only those who book ticket in the official website of air ticketing irctc,IRCTC Air – air.irctc.co.in.
4. We Are Displaced is authored by
    A. Rajnath Singh B. Shashi Tharoor C. Malala yousafzai D. Nadia Murad E. None

Answer - Option C
5. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has released the Democracy Index which ranks 167 countries by 60 indicators across five broad categories. What is India’s rank in the index?
    A. 67 B. 41 C. 82 D. 96 E. 52

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has released the Democracy Index which ranks 167 countries by 60 indicators across five broad categories. The index classifies each country either as a full democracy, flawed democracy, hybrid regime or authoritarian. Only 4.5% of the world’s people live in a full democracy. Australia and New Zealand are the only “full democracies” in the entire Asia-Pacific region. India was at the 41st place with a score of 7.23/10 and was placed in the flawed democracies category.
6. According to the first advance estimates of National Income for 2018-19 released by The Central Statistics Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, the Indian economy is expected to grow at _____ percent in the financial year 2018-19.
    A. 7.2% B. 6.5% C. 7% D. 8% E.None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Central Statistics Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released the first advance estimates of National Income for 2018-19. The Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.2 per cent in the financial year 2018-19 which is higher than the 6.7 per cent GDP growth in the previous financial year 2017-2018. The Real GVA (Gross Value Added) is expected to grow at 7 per cent in the current fiscal as against 6.5 per cent in 2017-18.
7. Market regulator SEBI has set up a Research advisory committee(RAC) that will help and analyse the new methods of policy making for the development of capital market.The committee formed will be headed by
    A. Sudip Bhattacharya B. Sankar De C. Sansank Manohar D. Sudipto Banerjee E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Market regulator SEBI has set up a Research advisory committee(RAC) that will help and analyse the new methods of policy making for the development of capital market.The committee formed will be headed by Sankar De.
8. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a high-level committee under ______ to suggest measures to strengthen the safety and security of digital payments in the country.
    A. Nandan Nilekani B. Niketan Swami C. Nandish Sandhu D. Nabeen Dua E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a high-level committee under Nandan Nilekani to suggest measures to strengthen the safety and security of digital payments in the country.
9. _____ is to head the seven-member committee to look into revenue shortfall being faced by the states after the GST roll-out, and suggest steps for augmenting collections.
    A. Biplab Kumar Deb B. Nitinbhai Patel C. Vijay Rupani D. N. Biren Singh E. Sushil Modi

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi is to head the seven-member committee to look into revenue shortfall being faced by the states after the GST roll-out, and suggest steps for augmenting collections
10. The Government has set up a committee headed by former Union tourism secretary M.P. Bezbaruah to review the implementation of
    A. Digital India Mission B. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan C. Secure online payment gateways D. New guidelines of GST E. clause 6 of the Assam Accord.

Answer - Option E
Explanation - The Government has set up a committee headed by former Union tourism secretary M.P. Bezbaruah to review the implementation of clause 6 of the Assam Accord.
1. Global Housing Technology Challenge is launched by which of the following ministries?
    A.Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs B. Ministry of Home Affairs C. Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation D. Ministry Of Health and Family Welfare. E. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Union Minister of Housing and Urban affairs Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Global Housing Technology Challenge. The challenge is undertaken under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban (PMAY-U). GHTC aims to fast-track the construction of affordable housing and meet the target of constructing 1.2 crore houses by 2022.
2. SAKSHAM stands for
    A. Sanchit Kshamata Mahottsav B. Sakshar Kshrmik Mahostav C. Sanrakshit Krushak Mahotsav D. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) Vans was flagged off by Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan to promote and create awareness among people on the need of oil and gas conservation for the future and the methods to do it. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) is an annual flagship event of Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum, Natural Gas, Govt. of India.
3. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) Vans are associated with which of the following ministries?
    A. Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs B. Ministry of Home Affairs C. Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation D. Ministry Of Health and Family Welfare E. Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) Vans was flagged off by Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan to promote and create awareness among people on the need of oil and gas conservation for the future and the methods to do it. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) is an annual flagship event of Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum, Natural Gas, Govt. of India.
4. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) Vans was flagged off to promote and create awareness among people on the need of
    A. soil conservation B. ganga rejuvenation C. oil and gas conservation D. safe drinking water E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) Vans was flagged off by Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan to promote and create awareness among people on the need of oil and gas conservation for the future and the methods to do it. Sanrakshan Kshmata Mahotsav (SAKSHAM) is an annual flagship event of Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum, Natural Gas, Govt. of India.
5. The Union Finance Ministry has started the Know Your Budget series to educate the general public about the budgetary process. On which of the following platform will this series be organized?
    A. YouTube B. Twitter C. Facebook D. Instagram E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Union Finance Ministry has started the Know Your Budget series on Twitter to educate the general public about the budgetary process. It is a fortnight series which explains the importance of Union Budget and its making
6. Commerce Ministry launched Government e Marketplace [GeM] initiative to enable women entrepreneurs and women self-help groups [WSHGs] to sell handicrafts and handloom, accessories, etc. directly to various Government ministries, departments and institutions. What is it called?
    A. Womaniya on GeM B. Stree on Gem C. Nari on Gem D. Women on Gem E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Commerce Ministry announced that the Government e Marketplace [GeM] launched “Womaniya on GeM” initiative to enable women entrepreneurs and women self-help groups [WSHGs] to sell handicrafts and handloom, accessories, etc. directly to various Government ministries, departments and institutions.
7. KALIA stands for
    A. Kisan Assistance for Livelihood and Income Amalgamation B. Krushk Assistance for Livelihood and Income Anticipation C. Kisan Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation D. Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Odisha launched Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) with a primary objective to target small farmers, cultivators and landless agricultural labourers.
8. KALIA Scheme is associated with which of the following Indian states?
    A. Odisha B. Karnataka C. Madhya Pradesh D. Jharkhand E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation -Odisha launched Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) with a primary objective to target small farmers, cultivators and landless agricultural labourers.
9. The Sustainable Catchment Forest Management (SCATFORM) project which is undertaken with the assistance of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) is launched by which of the following states?
    A. Arunachal Pradesh B. Andhra Pradesh C. Karnataka D. Manipur E. Tripura

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb launched the Sustainable Catchment Forest Managemen The SCATFORM project aims to address issues such as forest cover loss and forest degradation have been mainly caused by shifting cultivation, which increases soil erosion risks on hill slopes especially in upper catchment areas.
10. Jai Kisan Rin Mukti Yojana is associated with which of the following states?
    A. Maharashtra B. Jharkhand C. Odisha D. Madhya Pradesh E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - “Jai Kisan Rin Mukti Yojana” scheme was launched by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri. Kamal Nath.It is Rs 50,000 crore farm loan waiver scheme for farmers.
1. Which of the following countries has recently taken the chairmanship of G77 from Egypt?
    A. China B. Indonesia C. Palestine D. Japan E. Turkey

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Palestine has taken over the chairmanship of G77 from Egypt. Palestine will be formally elected chair at the annual G77 ministerial meeting, scheduled to take place in mid-September. The chairmanship of the G77 is based on the system of geographical rotation. 2019 was Asia’s turn and the Asian group had unanimously endorsed Palestine.
2. The Global Aviation Summit 2019 was organized in
    A. Ambala B. Amritsar C. Pune D. Mumbai E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Global Aviation Summit 2019 was organized in Mumbai with the theme ‘Flying for All’.
3. Name the mountaineer who has set the world record of youngest to climb 7 highest volcanoes, 7 highest mountains in 7 continents in 7 years?
    A. Satyarup Siddhanta B. Swaroop Siddhartha C. Sanyukt Sharma D. Satyaram Shubhash E. NONE

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Satyarup Siddhanta, 35-year-old Kolkata mountaineer has set the world record of youngest to climb 7 highest volcanoes, 7 highest mountains in 7 continents in 7 years. He is also the first Indian to conquer the seven mountain peaks and seven volcanic summits.
4. Who has been recently conferred with the first ever Philip Kotler Presidential Award?
    A. Pranab Mukherjee B. Lal Krishna Advani C. Venkaiah Naidu D. Ram Nath Kovind E. Narendra Modi

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded first ever Philip Kotler Presidential Award. Philip Kotler Presidential Award aims to spread examples of individuals and companies who create an innovative culture for the economic, social and technological advancements of an industry or a country
5. Gandhi Peace Prize for 2018 is conferred to
    A. Tadanobu Asano B. Hayao Miyazaki C. Yohei Sasakawa D. Takashi Miike E. Ken Watanabe

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Yohei Sasakawa was named to receive Gandhi Peace Prize for 2018,who is the Goodwill Ambassador of the World Health Organization for Leprosy Elimination
6. A committee which submitted the report on revisiting the section 126 of the Representation of the People Act was headed by
    A. Umesh Sinha B. Umang Sharma C. Umar Qamar D. Umesh Sidhhart E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The Committee headed Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha has submitted the report on revisiting the section 126 of the Representation of the People Act. Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act Prohibits public meetings during period of forty-eight hours ending with hour fixed for conclusion of the poll.
7. Who will head an 11-member working group constituted by the Insolvency and Bankruptcy board of India (IBBI) to study the concept of ‘Group Insolvency’ and suggest a suitable framework?
    A. M.K. Naik B. U.K. Sinha C. R.L. Yadav D. P.D. Dasgupta E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Former Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), U.K. Sinha will head an 11- member working group constituted by the Insolvency and Bankruptcy board of India (IBBI) to study the concept of ‘Group Insolvency’ and suggest a suitable framework.
8. Shavkat Mirziyoyev is the President of
    A. Kazakhstan B. Kyrgyzstan C. Turkmenistan D. Uzbekistan E. None

Answer - Option D
9. With which of the following countries has India joined hands to get the supply of uranium?
    A. Kazakhstan B. Kyrgyzstan C. Turkmenistan D. Uzbekistan E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019. An agreement for importing uranium from Uzbekistan was signed.
10. India-Myanmar bilateral army exercise, IMBEX 2018-19, has begun at
    A. Kholahati B. Jahanabad C. Akhnoor D. Anand Parbat E. Chandimandir

Answer - Option E
Explanation - India-Myanmar bilateral army exercise, IMBEX 2018-19, has begun at Chandimandir Military Station (Panchkula)
1. According to the London-based Times Higher Education (THE) has released the Emerging Economies University Rankings 2019 in which Indian Institute of Science was ranked at which rank?
    A. [latex]15^{th}[/latex] B. [latex]14^{th}[/latex] C. [latex]42^{nd}[/latex] D. [latex]33^{rd}[/latex] E. [latex]15^{th}[/latex]

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The London-based Times Higher Education (THE) has released the Emerging Economies University Rankings 2019. The 2019 ranking comprises of 450 universities from 43 countries. The Indian Institute of Science has topped the rankings among Indian institutes with 14th rank; the second spot among Indian Institutes was occupied by the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay with 27th rank.
2. Cyril Ramphosa who was the chief guest the Republic Day celebration(2019) of India is the President of which of the following nations?
    A. Namibia B. South Africa C. Zimbabwe D. Botswana E. None of the above

Answer - Option B
Explanation -Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa is a South African politician and the fifth and current President of South Africa.
3. Oxford Dictionary’s Word of The Year 2018 is
    A. Nari Shakti B. Climate Change C. Bharat D. Ganga E. None

Answer - Option A
Explanation - The word Nari Shakti is chosen as the word of the Year 2018 by the Oxford dictionaries. The announcement regarding this was made in the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF).
4. Samantha Express which is to be launched by IRCTC will will cover prominent places associated with which of the following personalities?
    (i) Mahatama Gandhi (ii) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (iii) Gautam Buddha (iv) Subhash Chandra Bose

    A. All of the above B. Only (i) and (ii) C. Only (ii) and (iii) D. Only (iii) and (iv) E. Only (iv) and (i)

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will launch a new train Samantha Express which will cover prominent places associated with Gautam Buddha and chief architect of the Constitution Dr B R Ambedkar.
5. Under which of the following sections of Chapter XVIII of Goods and Service Tax the Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of National Bench of Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal?
    A. Section 103 B. Section 105 C. Section 107 D. Section 109 E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of National Bench of Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal. Section 109 of Chapter XVIII Chapter of CGST Act empowers the Central Government to constitute an Appellate Tribunal known as the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal for hearing on the recommendation of Council
6. Which of the following statement is not true regarding Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana launched by PM Narendra Modi? (i) The tour is partially sponsored by central government and state government (ii) It is be organized only once year (iii) People of age 35-50 can apply for this scheme (iv) Preference will be given to the people from Girmitiya countries (v) The term Girimitiya is coined by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
    A. All are true B. None is true C. Only (i) and (iii) are not true D. . Only (ii) is true E. Only (iv) is true

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana. Darshan Yojana are: Under the scheme, a group of Indian diaspora will be taken on a government-sponsored tour of religious places in India twice a year. The first batch of 40 people participated in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019 held in Varanasi. Those selected would be taken to religious places of all major religions in India. The government will bear all the expenses including the airfare from their country of residence. People of Indian-origin aged 45 to 65 can apply can avail the benefits under the scheme. The Scheme accords first preference to people from Girmitiya countries such as Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica. Girmitiya’s are the descendants of indentured Indian labourers brought to Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, East Africa, the Malay Peninsula, Caribbean and South America (Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname) to work on sugarcane plantations for the prosperity of the European settlers. The term Girmitiya was coined by the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi who referred to himself as first Girmitiya.
7. Who among the following delivered the first IBSA Gandhi-Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture
    A. Cyril Ramaphosa B. Narendra Modi C. Ram Nath Kovind D. Nguyễn Xuân Phúc E. None of the above

Answer - Option A
Explanation - Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa delivered The First IBSA Gandhi-Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture in New Delhi
8. Which of the following is the World Capital of Architecture’ for 2020 by UNESCO?
    A. Stockholm B. Budapest C. Rio de Janeiro D. Athens E. Toledo

Answer - Option C
Explanation - Rio de Janeiro has been recognised as ‘World Capital of Architecture’ for 2020 by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
9. What does the S stand for in UNESCO?
    A. Sustainable B. Social C. Scientific D. Sustainability E. None

Answer - Option C
Explanation - UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
10. Which of the following statements is/are true regarding Yuva Swabhiman Yojana?.
    A. It is launched by Government of Odisha B. It offers employment to unemployed rural youth C. No skill training will be provided D. All are true E. None is true

Answer - Option E
Explanation - Yuva Swabhiman Yojana is launched by Madhya Pradesh Government. Under this scheme, 100 days of employment will be provided to youths from economically weaker sections in urban areas. They will also be given skill training.
1. Which of the following statements is/are true Pravasi Dividend Pension Scheme?
    A. It is launched by Kerala B. It is only for the permanent residents of Kerala C. It offers regular pension with one time payment of 3 lakh D. All are true E. Only (i) is true’

Answer - Option E
Explanation - The government of Kerala has launched ‘Pravasi Dividend Pension Scheme. Under the scheme, a regular pension would be provided to Non-Resident Keralites on a one-time payment of Rs 5 lakh.
2. Which of the following states celebrated the its first _________________Divas on on 24th January 2019?
    A. Odisha B. Jharkhand C. Telangana D. Uttar Pradesh E. Bihar

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The government of Uttar Pradesh celebrated UP Divas for the first time on 24th January 2019.
3. Who is the chief minister of Tripura?
    A. Biplab Kumar Deb B. Sarbananda Sonowal C. Pawan Kumar Chamling D. Pema Khandu E. Conrad Sangma

Answer - Option A
4. Ravneet Singh Gill has been appointed as the Managing Director of which of the following banks?
    A. IDBI Bank B. Yes Bank C. HDFC Bank D. Bank of Baroda E. Bank of India

Answer - Option B
5. DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2018 has been conferred to which of the following novels?
    A. The Land of Green Plums B. In Search of Lost Time C. No Presents Please D. A Heart So White E. How Democracies Die

Answer - Option C
Explanation - No Presents Please is English Novel translated from Kannada Work of Jayant Kaikini won the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2018. The novel was translated to English by Tejaswini Niranjana.
6. Name the first woman Indian Police Service (IPS) and ITBP officer who successfully conquer the South Pole
    A. Apoorvi Doshi B. Aradhana Deswal C. Aprita Kochar D. Aparna Kumar E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Aparna Kumar became the first woman Indian Police Service (IPS) and ITBP officer to successfully conquer the South Pole.
7. Who among the following Indian scientist won the The first Sheikh Saud International Prize for Materials Research?
    A. Animesh Chakravorty B. Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao C. Garikapati Narahari Sastry D. Govindarajan Padmanaban E. Gautam Radhakrishna Desiraju

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The first Sheikh Saud International Prize for Materials Research has been awarded to C N R Rao.
8. A panel has been set up panel headed by Praveen Kutumbe to identify domestically systematically important insurers (SIIs) and an augmented regulatory framework is logically established in this regard. Which of the following formed this panel
    A. The Union Cabinet B. Securities and Exchange Board of India C. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) D. Regulatory Development Authority of India (IRDAI) E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Regulatory Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has set up a panel headed by Praveen Kutumbe to identify domestically systematically important insurers (SIIs) and an augmented regulatory framework is logically established in this regard.
9. With which of the following countries did India sign a Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation on the recruitment of domestic workers?
    A. Egypt B. Turkey C. Kuwait D. Qatar E. Oman

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Union Cabinet of India has approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Kuwait for cooperation on the recruitment of domestic workers.
10. National Girl Child Day is observed on
    A. [latex]24^{th}[/latex] January B. [latex]8^{th}[/latex] June C. August 25 D. November 27 E. None of the above

Answer - Option A
1. The theme of National Girl Child Day-2019 is
    A. Empowered Tomorrow with Empowered Girls B. Empowering Girls for Empowered Tomorrow C. Empower Girls for Empowered Tomorrow D. Empowered Girls Empowered Tomorrow E. Empowering Girls for a Brighter Tomorrow

Answer - Option E
2. International Girl Child Day is observed on
    A. January 28 B. October 11 C. March 6 D. June 15 E. None

Answer - Option B
3. Which of the following has launched a new e-commerce platform ‘re-weave.in’ under project ReWeave to aid handloom weavers?
    A. Facebook B. PayTm C. Google India D. Microsoft India E. None

Answer - Option D
Explanation - Microsoft India launched a new e-commerce platform ‘re-weave.in’ under project ReWeave to aid handloom weavers.
4. 103. What is the name of the lightest satellite to be ever built and launched into orbit and it is also ISRO’s first launch of a satellite built by a private firm?
    A. Kalamsat-A2 B. Kalamsat-V2 C. Kalamsat-D2 D. Kalamsat-K2 E. Kalamsat-M2

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has launched the Kalamsat-V2 from Sriharikota space centre. It is the lightest satellite to be ever built and launched into orbit and it is also Isro’s first launch of a satellite built by a private firm. The satellite is being built by students belonging to Space Kidz India
5. An eight-member search panel formed to select members of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal is headed by
    A. Anuradha Bhardwaj B. Alka Chandra Gupta C. Ranjana Prakash Desai D. Rajeshwari Prasad Deswal E. None

Answer - Option C
Explanation - An eight-member search panel formed to select members of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal held its first meeting. The committee, headed by former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai
6. Name India’s fastest indigenous train which will ply between Delhi and Varanasii and an indigenously developed world-class train under Make in India.
    A.Vande Bharat Express B. Vijaya Bharat Express C. Sujanya Bhrata Express D. Vikhyaat Bharat Express E. Saumil Bharat Express

Answer - Option A
Explanation - India’s fastest indigenous train, Train 18 named as Vande Bharat Express will ply between Delhi and Varanasi. Train 18 is an indigenously developed world-class train under Make in India. The 16- coach train has been built completely in India by Indian engineers in a span of 18 months at the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai.
7. Which of the following river is regarded as the lifeline of Goa on which Atal Setu has been inaugurated recently?
    A. Sabari B. Kabini C. Mandovi D. Bhavani E. Kinnerasani

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The Mandovi River. Out of the 11 rivers in the state, the Mandovi is said to be Goa's lifeline.
8. Which of the following is the official logo of Tripura Tea?
    A. Ummaneshwar Temple B. Malancha Niwas C. Ujjayanta Palace D. Neermahal E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The Chief Minister of Tripura Biplab Kumar Deb unveiled the official logo of Tripura Tea. The Tripura Tea logo features Neermahal, the iconic landmark of Tripura.
9. According to the awards given under the Swasth Bharat Yatra, which of the followings state was conferred with the Best State Overall?
    A. Gujarat B. Tamil Nadu C. Goa D. Maharashtra E. Punjab

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Best State Overall: Tamil Nadu; Best States with a population above 3 crore: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.Best States having a population less than 3 crore: Punjab, Goa and Delhi Special awards: Meghalaya, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttrakhand were given special awards for their participation despite their hilly and difficult terrain
10. Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year was conferred upon
    A. Rahul Sharma B. Mahendra Singh Dhoni C. Virat Kohli D. both a and b E. None of the above

Answer - Option C
Explanation - The ICC awards recognize and honor the best international cricket players of the previous 12 months. Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year: Virat Kohli
1. Who among the following did not win the 2019 Bharat Ratna award?
    A. Pranab Mukherjee B. Nanaji Deshmukh C. Bhupen Hazarika D. Madan Mohan Malviya E. None of the above

Answer - Option D
Explanation - The 2019 Bharat Ratna award has been bestowed upon former President Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh and singer Bhupen Hazarika. Nanaji Deshmukh and singer Bhupen Hazarika were awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously.
2. Who won Australian Open 2019 Mens’ Singles Title?
    A. Rafael Nadal B. Novak Djokovic C. Roger Federer D. Andy Murray E. Pete Sampras

Answer - Option B
Explanation - Australian Open, nicknamed as the happy slam, concluded at Melbourne in Australia. Women’s Singles: Naomi Osaka of Japan. Men’s Singles: Novak Djokovic of Serbia
3. Which of the following reports recommends the government to opt for the unconditional cash transfer to farmers to alleviate agrarian distress rather than Universal Basic Income (UBI) scheme?
    A. SBI Ecowrap B. SEBI Global Market Report C. RBI’s Annual Report D. Year End Review of Ministry of Finance E. None

Answer - Option A
4. Which country topped The Bloomberg Innovation Index 2019?
    A. China B. South Korea C. Japan D. America E. None

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Bloomberg Innovation Index 2019 was recently released. It analyses each country in a range of areas including education, research and development, and manufacturing before coming up with a list of the 60 most innovative countries. The index is topped by South Korea for the sixth time in a row with a total score of 87.38. India stands at 54th spot in the Bloomberg Innovation Index with a score of 47.93 out of 100.
5. The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is organizing a fortnight of events named Shehri Samridhi Utsav all over the country with an aim to extend the outreach which of the following schemes?
    A. Deendayal Upadhayay Shehri Vikas Yojana B. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission C. Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme D. Mahatama Gandhi Shehri Vikas Yojana E. None of the above

Answer - Option B
Explanation - The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is organising a fortnight of events named Shehri Samridhi Utsav all over the country with an aim to extend the outreach of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) to the poorest of poor and the most vulnerable.