1.Where was the three-day mega Regional Agricultural Fair organized by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research?
- Lucknow
- Bareilly
- Varanasi
- Prayagraj
The correct answer is Varanasi. 
In News
- 3-day mega Regional Agricultural Fair was organized at the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) in Varanasi.
Key Points
- The fair was held from 03rd to 05th February 2024 at the Shahanshahpur campus.
- Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Surya Pratap Shahi, was the chief guest at the fair.
- The fair aimed to promote advanced agricultural practices and enhance farmer prosperity through various activities related to agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and more.
- It featured technical sessions on topics like value addition, agricultural mechanization, drones, and pest and disease management, with experts interacting with farmers.
- The fair was organized in collaboration with various organizations, and it included a vegetable exhibition, display, and sale of agricultural inputs and implements.
2.Where in Odisha will the foundation stone for the Talabira Thermal Power Project of NLC India Limited be laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
- Cuttack
- Sambalpur
- Jharsuguda
- Rourkela
The correct answer is Sambalpur. In News
- PM Modi to lay foundation stone of Talabira Thermal Power Project.
Key Points
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the Talabira Thermal Power Project of NLC India Limited in Sambalpur, Odisha.
- The project, valued at over ₹27,000 Crore, aims to establish a 2,400 MegaWatt Supercritical Thermal power plant.
- The initiative aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and aims to provide reliable, affordable, and continuous power to enhance the nation’s energy security.
- The thermal power plant will be intricately linked to NLCIL’s captive coal blocks, Talabira II and III, ensuring sustainability.
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) have already secured the supply of 800 MW to Odisha, demonstrating the project’s significance for the state’s energy requirements.
- The project highlights the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and contributes to India’s pursuit of energy security and environmental stewardship.
3.Who has been appointed as the principal secretary to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand?
- P.K. Mishra
- Rajiv Gauba
- Pradip Kumar Tripathi
- Vinay Kumar Choubey
The correct answer is Vinay Kumar Choubey. In News
- Vinay Kumar Choubey has been appointed as the principal secretary to Jharkhand CM.
Key Points
- Senior IAS officer Vinay Kumar Choubey has been appointed as the principal secretary to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
- This appointment came shortly after Champai Soren assumed office as the new Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
- Vinay Kumar Choubey’s appointment signifies a key administrative change in the Chief Minister’s office.
Additional Information
- The appointment follows the arrest of former Chief Minister Hemant Soren by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering probe.
- Choubey’s role will be crucial in providing administrative support and coordination for the newly formed government under Champai Soren.
- The decision reflects the government’s focus on ensuring effective governance and smooth functioning at the highest levels of administration.
4.What is the name of the AI platform launched by AIIMS, New Delhi, in collaboration with the CDAC Pune, for facilitating early detection of cancer?
- iCancer.ai
- CancerDetect.ai
- iOncology.ai
- CancerAI Detect
The correct answer is iOncology.ai. In News
- AIIMS launched AI-based platform “iOncology.ai” for Cancer Diagnosis.
Key Points
- AIIMS, New Delhi, in collaboration with CDAC, Pune, has launched an AI platform called iOncology.ai.
- This platform is designed to facilitate early detection of cancer using sophisticated AI systems capable of analyzing complex medical data.
- iOncology.ai encapsulates deep learning models and has the capability of self-learning to constantly improve its outcomes as the volume of data increases.
- The platform’s first application focuses on breast and ovarian cancers, which are reported to be the most common cancers among women in India.
- The use of AI in cancer diagnosis helps in reducing false negatives, which is a key issue in manual diagnosis.
- By leveraging AI technology, iOncology.ai aims to improve early diagnosis rates, thereby reducing fatalities due to cancer.
5.At which historical monument was India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) formally launched, marking its global debut?
- Statue of Liberty, New York
- Eiffel Tower, Paris
- Big Ben, London
- Times Square, New York
The correct answer is Eiffel Tower, Paris. In News
- India’s UPI officially launched at Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Key Points
- India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) was formally launched at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
- The launch event was organized by the Indian Embassy in France during a significant Republic Day Reception, highlighting the growing ties between India and France.
- This momentous occasion aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of taking UPI to the global stage.
- The event gathered members of Parliament, business leaders, scholars, friends of India, and the Indian community in France, underscoring the significance of the launch.
- The formal launch at the Eiffel Tower signifies not only the implementation of PM Modi’s announcement but also underscores the broader vision of making UPI a global standard.
6.Which film won the Best Animation Film award at the Kanchenjunga International Film Festival?
- Lachit the Warrior
- The Heroic General
- Legends of Assam
- Mughal Conquest
The correct answer is Lachit the Warrior. In News
- ‘Lachit the Warrior’ secured the best animation award at the Kanchenjunga International Film Festival.
Key Points
- ‘Lachit the Warrior,’ an animation film directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, won the Best Animation Film award at the Kanchenjunga International Film Festival.
- The film depicts the heroics of Lachit Barphukan, an iconic Ahom general known for preventing the Mughals from capturing Assam in the 1600s.
- Directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, who is currently serving as the DIG of the Special Task Force (STF) in Assam, the film has garnered recognition at various international film festivals.
- Apart from winning at the Kanchenjunga International Film Festival, the film also clinched the Best Animation Film award at the 10th Rajasthan International Film Festival.
- With its portrayal of Assam’s historical figure and stunning animation, ‘Lachit the Warrior’ has received acclaim for its storytelling and visual appeal.
7.On behalf of which association is the Maha Gaurav Samman award presented?
- Maharashtra Press Club
- Maharashtra Journalists Association
- Digital Media Editor Journalist Association Maharashtra
- Maharashtra Public Relations Society
The correct answer is Digital Media Editor Journalist Association Maharashtra. In News
- Nikhil Wagh received ‘Maha Gaurav Samman 2024’ award from Dypt. CM Ajit Pawar.
Key Points
- The Maha Gaurav 2024 award was presented to Nikhil Wagh by Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar on behalf of the Digital Media Editor Journalist Association Maharashtra.
- Nikhil Wagh, serving as the Public Relations Officer at Goa Shipyard Limited, received the award for his significant contributions to the field of public relations.
- The ceremony took place at Kaneri Math in Kolhapur, where notable personalities like actor Girish Kulkarni and journalist Raja Mane were present.
- Raja Mane, the president of the association, extended a special invitation to Nikhil Wagh, highlighting his influential role in both journalism and public relations.
- This award recognizes Wagh’s exceptional dedication and noteworthy impact in his professional endeavors, showcasing his remarkable career achievements.
8.Which state won the Nagesh Trophy in the Men’s National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind?
- Andhra Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Maharashtra
- Tamil Nadu
The correct answer is Karnataka.In News
- Karnataka clinched Nagesh Trophy, defeated Andhra Pradesh.
Key Points
- Karnataka emerged victorious in the Nagesh Trophy in the Men’s National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind.
- They defeated Andhra Pradesh by nine wickets in the final match held in Nagpur.
- Andhra Pradesh posted a total of 237 for five while batting first in the allotted 20 overs.
- Karnataka successfully chased down the target of 238, reaching 241 for one with three balls to spare.
- This victory showcases Karnataka’s exceptional performance and determination in the tournament, leading them to clinch the prestigious trophy.
9.Which state government announced the ‘Digital Detox’ initiative to encourage mindful use of social media?
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
- Kerala
- Telangana
The correct answer is Karnataka. In News
- Karnataka Government has launched ‘Digital Detox’ initiative.
Key Points
- The Karnataka government announced the ‘Digital Detox’ initiative to encourage mindful use of social media.
- This initiative aims to spread awareness about the negative effects of excessive digital consumption and promote responsible gaming.
- Minister for IT&BT, Priyank Kharge, revealed the collaboration with the All India Game Developers Forum (AIGDF) for this initiative.
- The initiative will focus on raising awareness about mindful technology usage and minimizing its adverse effects on mental health and relationships.
- Both online and offline Digital Detox Centres will be established across Karnataka to provide personalized guidance, counseling, and support to individuals seeking to manage their relationship with technology effectively.
- Practical tools and techniques will be provided to help individuals develop healthy technology habits, and community connections will be fostered through workshops and support groups to promote digital wellness.
10.Who set a world record with four consecutive centuries in their debut season of the Ranji Trophy?
- Anupama Chopra
- Vidhu Vinod Chopra
- Agni Chopra
- Rimon Chopra
The correct answer is Agni Chopra. In News
- Agni Chopra set a record with four centuries in debut Ranji Trophy.
Key Points
- Agni Chopra, the son of renowned film director Vidhu Vinod Chopra and film critic Anupama Chopra, achieved a world record with four consecutive centuries in his debut season of the Ranji Trophy.
- His remarkable performance came while playing for Mizoram in the Ranji Trophy.
- Agni’s stellar form with the bat has anchored the Mizoram team, showcasing his potential and talent in cricket.
- Despite some critics pointing out that these runs were scored in the Plate division against potentially weaker teams, Agni’s consistency and skill cannot be ignored.
- His achievement has garnered attention and admiration from the cricketing community, with speculations of him crossing the 1000-run mark as the season progresses.
11.Who among the following has been appointed to the board of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum?
- Anuj Gupta
- Rajiv Kapoor
- Sameer Desai
- Prashant Ruia
The correct answer is Prashant Ruia
In News
- Prashant Ruia, director of Essar group, is among the appointees to the board of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum.
Key Points
- Prashant Ruia, director of Essar group, and Deloitte global CEO Joe Ucuzoglu are among the appointees to the board of US-India Strategic Partnership Forum.
- Four individuals have been appointed to the board of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum.
- The announcement was made on February 3, 2024.
- Joe Ucuzoglu is the CEO of Deloitte Global.
- Alex Rogers serves as the President of Global Affairs at Qualcomm.
- Raj Shah is associated with MSI Surfaces.
- Prashant Ruia has been a significant part of Essar’s operations and management since 1985.
- Ruia played a crucial role in driving growth, diversification, and value creation for Essar both nationally and internationally.
12.Which portal, recently launched by NCPCR, facilitates the digital monitoring and tracking of the restoration and repatriation of children in accordance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015?
- Track Child Portal
- Khoya-Paya Portal
- Go Home and Re-Unite (GHAR) Portal
- Crime and Criminal Tracking & Network Systems (CCTNS) Portal
The correct answer is Go Home and Re-Unite (GHAR) Portal
In News
- The GHAR (GO Home and Re-Unite) Portal has been developed and launched by NCPCR for the digital monitoring and tracking of the restoration and repatriation of children.
Key Points
- The portal operates under the protocols under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and its rules.
- The Track Child Portal, developed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, enables tracking of missing and found children in various states and union territories.
- The Track Child Portal involves stakeholders such as the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Railways, State Governments/UT Administrations, and others.
- The Track Child Portal is integrated with the CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking & Network Systems) of the Ministry of Home Affairs, allowing interoperability for matching missing children with database records.
- The GHAR Portal includes features such as digital tracking of children in the juvenile justice system, digital transfer of cases to the concerned authorities, and requests for translators or experts when needed.
- Child Welfare Committees and District Child Protection Officers can use the portal to monitor the progress of cases, ensuring proper restoration and rehabilitation of children.
13.who has assumed the position of Chief Adviser (Cost) in the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance?
- Dr. Rajesh Patel
- Shri Pawan Kumar
- Shri Arvind Singh
- Ms. Deepa Verma
The correct answer is Shri Pawan Kumar
In News
- Shri Pawan Kumar, ICoAS, assumed charge as Chief Adviser (Cost) on February 1, 2024.
Key Points
- The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
- Shri Kumar is a 1992-batch officer of the Indian Cost Accounts Service under the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
- Prior to this position, he held the charge of Additional Chief Adviser (Cost).
- Shri Kumar is a qualified Cost Accountant with diverse work experience in various capacities in different Ministries/Departments and autonomous bodies.
- His experience includes roles in organizations like Tariff Commission, Delhi Development Authority, Director General of Trade Remedies, Department of Economic Affairs, Department of Public Enterprises, etc.
- Shri Kumar played a pivotal role in developing a web-based Online Dashboard for performance evaluation of CPSEs in the Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Finance, which received the ‘Gold Award’ in the ‘e-Governance’ category in 2022.
14.Who has assumed the role of Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand?
- Alok Sharma
- Preeti Verma
- Rajesh Singhania
- Vinay Kumar Choubey
The correct answer is Vinay Kumar Choubey
In News
- Vinay Kumar Choubey has been appointed as the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
Key Points
- Vinay Kumar Choubey, a senior IAS officer, has been appointed as the principal secretary to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
- The appointment came shortly after Champai Soren was sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
- Hemant Soren, the previous Chief Minister, resigned and was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering probe linked to an alleged land scam.
- The Jharkhand Assembly comprises 81 members, with JMM holding 29 seats, its ally Congress having 17, and the RJD and CPI(ML) having one seat each.
15.The stalwart of Hindi and Odia cinema, Shri Sadhu Meher, has passed away. He received the National Award for Best Actor for his outstanding performance in which film?
- Anupama
- Dastak
- Ankur
- Maidaan
The correct answer is Ankur
In News
- The stalwart of Hindi and Odia cinema, Shri Sadhu Meher, who recently passed away, won the National Award for Best Actor for his remarkable performance in the film “Ankur.”
Key Points
- Sadhu Meher was a renowned actor, director, and producer in the Indian film industry.
- He made significant contributions to both Bollywood and Odia cinema.
- Meher won the National Award for Best Actor for his exceptional performance in the Hindi film “Ankur.”
- He was known for his versatile roles in various Hindi films, including “Bhuvan Shome,” “Ankur,” and “Mrigaya.”
- In Odia cinema, Meher captivated audiences with his performance in the national award-winning film “Bhuka” by filmmaker Sabyasachi Mahapatra.
- Beyond acting, Meher also showcased his talent behind the camera as a director, helming acclaimed films like “Abhimaan,” “Abhilasha,” and “Babu La.”
- His directorial capabilities shone in the critically acclaimed Odia film “Gopa Re Badhuchi Kala Kanhei,” demonstrating his versatility as a filmmaker.
16.The United States State Department has granted approval for the sale of 31 MQ-9B “SeaGuardian” drones to India. What is the equivalent amount in rupees for this transaction?
- $4.5 billion
- $4 billion
- $5 billion
- $5.5 billion
The correct answer is $4 billion
In News
- The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $4 billion foreign military sale to India for 31 Sky Guardian MQ-9B drones.
Key Points
- The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $4 billion foreign military sale to India for 31 Sky Guardian MQ-9B drones.
- The sale is aimed at strengthening the U.S.-India strategic relationship and improving the security of India, a major defense partner
- DSCA stated that the proposed sale supports the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.
- The drones are intended to conduct “unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation.”
- The deal includes various weapons and equipment, such as missiles, bombs, and sensors.
- India typically requires “offset” agreements to mitigate the impact on its domestic industrial base, though the terms will be defined in future negotiations.
- The final deal amount may be lower than $4 billion, depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreements.
17.Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with Bharat Ratna. When was he awarded Padma Vibhushan?
- 2013
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
The correct answer is 2015
In News
- In 2015, Lal Krishna Advani was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour
Key Points
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India, on February 3, 2024.
- PM Modi praised Advani’s contribution to the development of India, his unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, and his efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence.
- Advani served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004.
- He is a co-founder of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
- Advani is also a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
- He was the longest-serving Minister of Home Affairs, holding the position from 1998 to 2004.
- Advani was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, in 2015.
- The Bharat Ratna is being conferred upon Advani in recognition of his monumental contributions to India’s progress, his unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, and his efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence.
18.What is the main focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the Pali Saansad Khel Mahakumbh?
- Praising the exceptional exposure for athletes
- Congratulating MP P.P. Choudhary for his efforts
- Emphasizing the role of sports in youth and national development
- Sharing updates on the Khelo India games
The correct answer is Emphasizing the role of sports in youth and national development
In News
- The main focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the Pali Saansad Khel Mahakumbh is emphasizing the role of sports in youth and national development
Key Points
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed participants at the Pali Saansad Khel Mahakumbh through a video message on February 3, 2024.
- He commended the sporting talents of the participants and extended best wishes to players, coaches, and families.
- PM Modi emphasized the role of sports in youth and national development, aligning with the government’s sports initiatives.
- He praised the enthusiasm seen in the Saansad Khel Mahakumbh, which hosts over 2 lakh athletes and serves as a platform for talent scouting and nurturing.
- PM Modi acknowledged the exceptional exposure for athletes and congratulated MP P.P. Choudhary for his efforts in organizing the event.
- He expressed confidence in Rajasthan’s youth and urged them to carry forward their legacy of achievements in various fields.
- PM Modi highlighted the transformative power of sports in promoting personal development and steering youth away from vices.
19.Which of the following is the theme of World Cancer Day 2024?
- “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access To Cancer Care”
- “Together, we challenge those in power”
- “United against cancer”
- “Curability for all”
The correct answer is “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access To Cancer Care”
In News
- The theme for the 2022-2024 period is “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access To Cancer Care”.
Key Points
- World Cancer Day is observed globally on February 4 each year to raise awareness about cancer, its prevention, and the importance of early detection.
- The theme for the 2022-2024 period is “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access To Cancer Care,” highlighting the need for global collaboration in the fight against cancer.
- The sub-theme, “Together, we challenge those in power,” emphasises accountability from leaders to allocate essential resources for eradicating cancer.
- World Cancer Day dates back to the World Summit Against Cancer in Paris in 1999, where the concept was proposed.
- The Charter of Paris Against Cancer was signed on February 4, 2000, during the follow-up World Summit, officially marking the first observance of World Cancer Day.
- World Cancer Day holds significance in increasing awareness about early detection to reduce cancer-related fatalities.
- In 2020, cancer became the leading cause of global deaths, with approximately 10 million fatalities.
20.Which of the following regarding National Commission for Protection of Child Rights is correct?
- It was established in the year 2005.
- It is under the administrative control of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
- It a statutory body under Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005.
- All the member of this commission shall be women.
The correct answer is Option 3.
- The National Commission for protection of Child Rights is a statutory body under the Commission for Protection of Child Right Act 2005.
- It was established in the year 2007.
- It is a six-membered body of which at least two shall be women.
- It works under the administrative control of Ministry of Women and Child Development.
- The commission emphasises the principle of universality and inviolability of child rights and recognises the tone of urgency in all the child related policies of the country.
- Functions of the commission include:
- inquire into complaints and take suo-moto notice of matters related to Deprivation and violation of child rights, Non-implementation of laws providing for protection and development of children, Non-compliance of policy decisions, guidelines or instructions.
- increase child right literacy, the inspection of juvenile care homes and present report to the central government.
- to carry out researches on the matters incidental to child rights.
- reviews of international treaties and covenants in child rights. etc.