1. 10th March is observed as the CISF Raising Day. What is the motto of CISF?
- Omnipresent Omnipotent Security
- Protection and Security
- Service and Loyalty
- Duty Unto Death
The correct answer is Protection and Security.
Key Points
- Central Industrial Security Force(CISF)
- CISF is one of the five Central Armed Police Forces of India.
- The Central Industrial Security Force(CISF) provides security cover to the Central Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
- Industrial sectors like atomic power plants, space installations, mines, oil fields and refineries, major ports, heavy engineering, steel plants, barrages, fertilizer units, airports, and hydroelectric/thermal power plants owned and controlled by Central Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and currency note presses producing Indian currency are protected by CISF.
- CISF is a unique organization in the paramilitary forces of India, which works for seaways, airways, and some of the major installations in India.
- CISF was formed on 10th March 1969.
- CISF comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- The motto of CISF – “Protection and Security”.
- The current Director-General of CISF – Nina Singh
2. Which Indian badminton players clinched their second men’s doubles crown at the French Open Super 750 in March 2024?
- Sameer Verma and Lakshya Sen
- H. S. Prannoy and Sai Praneeth
- Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
- Sai Praneeth and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy
The correct answer is Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty. 
In News
- Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty secured their second men’s doubles crown at the French Open Super 750 in 2024.
Key Points
- They won the final against Lee Jhe-Huei and Yang Po-Hsuan.
- The match took place at the Adidas Arena in Paris.
- Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the match in straight games with a score of 21-11, 21-17.
- This victory marked their first title of the year.
- It only took them 36 minutes to secure the win.
3. India has recently signed a $100 billion free trade deal with the EFTA bloc. Consider the following statements about EFTA:
1. The full form of EFTA is European Free Trade Association.
2. EFTA consists of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Sweden.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- One only
- Two only
- Both the above
- None of the above
The correct answer is One only.In News
- India signed $100bn free trade deal with European EFTA bloc.
Key Points
- The full form of EFTA mentioned in the article is European Free Trade Association.
- Hence, Option no. 1 is CORRECT.
- EFTA consists of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, which are non-European Union nations. Sweden is not a part of EFTA.
- Hence, Option no. 2 is INCORRECT.
- India signed a $100bn free trade agreement with EFTA, marking a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation.
- The agreement involves lifting import tariffs on industrial products from EFTA countries in exchange for investments over 15 years.
- EFTA member countries will gain access to India’s fast-growing market of 1.4 billion people.
- The agreement aims to boost exports, promote investment, and create employment opportunities for both parties.
4. Who was sworn in as Pakistan’s 14th President in March 2024?
- Shehbaz Sharif
- Asif Ali Zardari
- Dr. Arif Alvi
- Mahmood Khan Achakzai
The correct answer is Asif Ali Zardari. In News
- Asif Ali Zardari was sworn in as Pakistan’s 14th President.
Key Points
- The oath-taking ceremony took place at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the Presidential Palace.
- Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath to Zardari.
- He secured 411 electoral votes with the backing of PML-N and MQM-P, becoming the joint candidate of the ruling alliance.
- Zardari replaced Dr. Arif Alvi, who remained in office for five additional months.
Additional Information
- The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with senior officials and diplomats.
- Zardari, co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), previously served as the 11th president of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013.
- He won the presidency for the second time, defeating PTI-backed candidate Mahmood Khan Achakzai.
- Zardari has been a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan since August 2018.
- Married to Benazir Bhutto, he was brought up and educated in Karachi.
5. Who won the Miss World 2024 title?
- Sini Shetty
- Karolina Bielawska
- Yasmina Zaytoun
- Krystyna Pyszkova
The correct answer is Krystyna Pyszkova. In News
- Krystyna Pyszkova from the Czech Republic won the Miss World 2024 title in Mumbai.
Key Points
- She succeeded Karolina Bielawska from Poland as the reigning Miss World.
- Pyszkova is the second Miss World winner from the Czech Republic, following Tatana Kucharova in 2006.
- She is a Czech model pursuing degrees in law and business administration.
- Pyszkova founded the Krystyna Pyszko Foundation and advocates for sustainable development through education.
- Fluent in multiple languages, including English, Polish, Slovak, and German, she opened an English school for underprivileged children in Tanzania.
- Pyszkova enjoys playing the transverse flute and the violin and has a passion for music and art.
Additional Information
- Sini Shetty, representing India, made it to the top 8 but was not the winner.
- The event marked India’s hosting after 28 years, with Shetty being crowned Femina Miss India World in 2022.
- India has previously won the Miss World title six times.
6. What is the theme of the “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” campaign launched in 2024?
- Water Conservation Through Innovation
- Empowering Women for Water Security
- Sustainable Management of Water Resources
- Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti
The correct answer is Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti. In News
- The theme of the “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” campaign launched in 2024 is “Nari Shakti se Jal Shakti.”
Key Points
- The campaign emphasizes the integral role of women in water conservation and management.
- It is the fifth edition of the campaign and comes under the National Water Mission.
- The campaign aims to empower women and ensure a water-secure future.
- It is organized by the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, in collaboration with the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
Additional Information
- The launch event featured a ‘Jal Kalash’ ceremony symbolizing collective commitment towards water conservation.
- Short films and documentaries highlighting the importance of water conservation and the role of women were screened during the event.
- Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized the critical importance of water conservation and the imperative role of women in this effort.
7. How much financial assistance will eligible married women receive monthly under the Mahatari Vandana Yojana launched in Chhattisgarh?
- Rs 500
- Rs 750
- Rs 1000
- Rs 1500
The correct answer is Rs 1000. In News
- PM Modi launched the “Mahtari Vandan Yojana” in Chhattisgarh.
Key Points
- Eligible married women in Chhattisgarh will receive Rs 1000 per month under the Mahatari Vandana Yojana.
- This financial assistance aims to ensure economic empowerment and financial security for women.
- The scheme targets women above 21 years of age as of January 1, 2024.
- It includes widows, divorced, and deserted women as eligible beneficiaries.
- Approximately 70 lakh women are expected to benefit from the scheme.
Additional Information
- Prime Minister Modi disbursed the first installment of Rs 1000 crore under this scheme.
- He assured that eligible women will receive Rs 1000 every month as guaranteed by him.
- The scheme is part of the government’s efforts to empower women and promote gender equality.
- PM Modi emphasized the importance of women’s well-being and their integral role in family and societal development.
8. What is the name of the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel inaugurated by PM Modi in March 2024?
- Sela Tunnel
- Banihal Qazigund Road Tunnel
- Trivandrum Port railway tunnel
- Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel
The correct answer is Sela Tunnel. In News
- PM Modi inaugurated the Sela Tunnel in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
Key Points
- PM Modi virtually flagged off the first convoy through the tunnel during the inauguration.
- The Sela Tunnel project was initiated in 2019 and is located in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
- It is the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel, stretching 13,000 feet, and consists of two tunnels and a link road.
- The tunnel is aimed at providing all-weather connectivity to the Tawang region.
Additional Information
- Alongside the Sela Tunnel, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several development projects in Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh.
- He emphasized the government’s commitment to making Northeast India the growth engine of the country.
- PM Modi highlighted the significant infrastructure development in the Northeast, including the construction of over 6,000 km of National Highways in the last decade.
- The government has also introduced the UNNATI Yojana to encourage industrial development in the Northeast.
9. What is the name of the digital exhibition launched by the National Archives of India on its 134th Foundation Day?
- Subhash Samaroh
- Bose Parv
- Subhash Abhinandan
- Azad Hind Utsav
The correct answer is Subhash Abhinandan. In News
- The name of the digital exhibition launched by the National Archives of India is “Subhash Abhinandan.”
Key Points
- It is based on the life of Subhash Chandra Bose and features documents available in the National Archives.
- The exhibition will be launched by Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs & Culture, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.
- It covers 16 sections, providing insights into various aspects of Bose’s life from birth to the present time.
- Documents showcased include Janaki Nath Bose’s diary, civil service examination results, and records related to Azad Hind Fauj.
- The exhibition offers a glimpse into Bose’s speeches, adventurous journey, and struggles during the freedom movement.
- It also addresses the award and deferral of the Bharat Ratna and efforts by the Ministry of Culture to honor Bose.
- The exhibition provides a unique experience and is also available in virtual reality.
- The National Archives of India, established in 1891, is the nodal agency for the implementation of the Public Records Act, 1993.
10. PM Modi has recently unveiled a 125-foot statue of Lachit Borphukan in Assam. With reference to the history of India consider the following statements about ‘Lachit Borphukan’:
1. He was the 17th Century general of Assam’s erstwhile Ahom kingdom. He was known for his leadership in the 1671 battle of Saraighat.
2. The battle of Saraighat was fought on the banks of the Brahmaputra in Guwahati.
3. In the battle Saraighat, Mughal army became victorious and captured the vast area under the Ahom Kingdom.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
The correct answer is 1 and 2 only.
In News
- PM Modi unveiled 125-foot statue of Lachit Borphukan in Assam.
- He also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 17,500 crores in Assam.
Important Points
- Lachit Borphukan was an army general from Assam.
- The 17th Century general of Assam’s erstwhile Ahom kingdom was known for his leadership in the 1671 battle of Saraighat that defeated an attempt by Mughal forces to capture Assam. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- The battle of Saraighat was fought on the banks of the Brahmaputra in Guwahati. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Since 1999, the National Defence Academy (NDA) has been conferring its best cadet with the Lachit Borphukan gold medal every year.
Key Points
Battle of Saraighat
- The Battle of Saraighat was a naval battle fought in 1671 between the Mughal Empire (led by the Kachwaha king, Raja Ramsingh I), and the Ahom Kingdom (led by Lachit Borphukan) on the Brahmaputra river at Saraighat, now in Guwahati.
- Although weaker, the Ahom Army defeated the Mughal Army by brilliant uses of the terrain, clever diplomatic negotiations to buy time, guerrilla tactics, psychological warfare, military intelligence and by exploiting the sole weakness of the Mughal forces—it’s navy. Hence, statement 3 is NOT correct.
- The Battle of Saraighat was the last battle in the last major attempt by the Mughals to extend their empire into Assam.
MARCH Days & Events
1. Which of India’s neighboring countries celebrates its National Day on March 26?
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
The Correct Answer is Bangladesh.
- March 26 is the Independence Day of Bangladesh and celebrated as the National Day.
Key Points
- Bangladesh marks March 26 as the official Independence Day as it was on the day in 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman announced the birth of Bangladesh in a dramatic speech.
Additional Information
- Pakistan celebrates August 14 as the National day.
- Srilanka celebrates National day on 4 February to commemorate the country’s political independence from British rule in 1948.
2. World water day is celebrated on which day of the March?
- 20 March
- 21 March
- 22 March
- 23 March
The correct answer is 22 March.
Key Points
- World water day is celebrated on 22nd March.
Additional Information
- World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, focuses on the importance of freshwater.
- The theme of 2021 World water day is Valuing Water.
- International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems.
- Source:- https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day
March 2021 Important Days | |
Date | Name of Important Days |
1 March | Zero Discrimination Day |
1 March | World Civil Defence Day |
3 March | World Wildlife Day |
3 March | World Hearing Day |
4 March | National Safety Day |
8 March | International Women’s Day |
10 March | CISF Raising Day |
10 March | No Smoking Day (Second Wednesday of March) |
12 March | Mauritius Day |
14 March | Pi Day |
14 March | International Day of Action for Rivers |
15 March | World Consumer Rights Day |
15 March | Ramakrishna Jayanti |
16 March | National Vaccination Day |
18 March | Ordnance Factories Day (India) |
20 March | International Day of Happiness |
20 March | World Sparrow Day |
21 March | World Forestry Day |
21 March | World Down Syndrome Day |
21 March | World Poetry Day |
22 March | World Water Day |
23 March | World Meteorological Day |
24 March | World Tuberculosis (TB) Day |
27 March | World Theatre Day |
3. March 20 is observed as the International Day of Happiness. Since which year, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness?
- 2011
- 2013
- 2015
- 2017
The correct answer is 2013.
Key Points
- March 20 is observed as the International Day of Happiness.
- Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world.
- The resolution to adopt it was initiated by Bhutan, a country that recognized the value of national happiness over national income since the early 1970s.
4. World Sleep Day is observed on the Friday before the March equinox every year. It was first observed in _____?
- 2006
- 2008
- 2010
- 2012
The correct answer is 2008.
Key Points
- World Sleep Day is observed on the Friday before the March equinox every year.
- It is organized by the World Sleep Day Committee of the World Sleep Society
- It was first observed in 2008.
- It aims to lessen the burden of sleep problems on society through better prevention and management of sleep disorders.
Additional Information
- World Sleep Day is observed annually with an aim to raise awareness and call to action on important issues related to sleep — including medicine, education, social aspects and driving.
- This year, the theme and slogan of the day is ‘Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World’.
- Human sleep architecture is defined by polysomnography (PSG) and divided into different stages: Four stages of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and one stage of rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep.
5. Which of the following Days is observed every year on 23 March?
- World Health Day
- World Meteorological Day
- World Malaria Day
- World AIDS Day
The correct answer is World Meteorological Day.
- World Meteorological Day takes place every year on 23 March.
- World Meteorological Day in 2021 is devoted to the theme “the ocean, our climate and weather.”
- It commemorates the coming into force on 23 March 1950 of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization.
- It showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to the safety and wellbeing of society and is celebrated with activities around the world.
- World Health Day – 7 April.
- World Malaria Day – 25 April.
- World AIDS Day – 1 December.
- World Hepatitis Day – 28 July.
6. International Day of happiness is observed every year around the world on March 20. In which year did the UN start celebrating this day?
- 2009
- 2011
- 2013
- 2015
The correct answer is 2013.
Key Points
- International Day of happiness is observed every year around the world on March 20.
- The UN started celebrating this day in 2013.
- The resolution was initiated by Bhutan.
- Bhutan initially prioritized the value of National Happiness over National Income in the 1970s.
- Bhutan is known for adopting the goal of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product at the 66th General Assembly.
Important Points
- This year’s International Happiness Day theme is set as ‘Keep Calm, Stay Wise and Be Kind.’
- The main aim of the day is to create awareness among people that happiness is one most important things in an individual’s life.
7. World Consumer Rights day is observed on which date?
- 8th March
- 15th March
- 21st March
- 20th March
The correct answer is 15 March.
Key Points
- World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on 15th March.
- The idea of celebrating a consumer rights day was given by former US President John F Kennedy in 1962.
- The theme of World Consumer Rights Day 2023 is “Empowering consumers through clean energy transitions”
- Its main objective is consumer rights are to be protected and respected.
- National Consumer Day is observed every year on 24 December.
Additional Information
- April 14th:AmbedkarJayanti
- August 15th:Indian Independence Day
- March 8th:International Women’s Day
8. Every year, the 1st Friday of March is celebrated as Employee Appreciation Day. Who was the founder of this day?
- Dr Bob Nelson
- Dr Ben Crump
- Dr Aurora James
- Dr Tom Brady
The correct answer is Dr. Bob Nelson.
Key Points
- Every year, the 1st Friday of March is celebrated as Employee Appreciation Day, as a recognition of the good work of employees.
- The day was introduced to acknowledge the hard work and diligence of employees and bestow them with the recognition that they deserve.
- Dr. Bob Nelson, the founder of the organization Recognition Professionals International, was the founder of the day.
Additional Information
- This day is considered an opportunity to create a positive bond between employers and employees and to ensure a healthy mental and physical workspace for individuals.
- Dr. Bob Nelson introduced Employee Appreciation Day in 1995 to thank employees and boost their morale.
9. World Civil Defence Day is observed on 1 March. This day was declared as a global holiday by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) in which year?
- 1990
- 1992
- 1994
- 1996
The correct answer is 1990.
Key Points
- World Civil Defence Day is observed on 1 March.
- This day was declared as a global holiday by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) in 1990.
- It honours the significance of civil defence and the personnel who have sacrificed their lives for it.
- The ICDO is an intergovernmental organisation that helps citizens develop and stay secure while also protecting infrastructure and the environment.
Important Points
- ICDO stands for civil protection, civil defence, and civil safety.
- The International Civil Defence Organisation has 58 member states and 17 observer states and conducts as many training programmes as possible to improve the human resources of its member states’ civil defence cadres.
- ICDO, was created in 1931 by Surgeon-General George Saint-Paul who founded the Association of Geneva Zones, which later became the ICDO.
- Saint-Paul intended to build safe zones where residents may take refuge in times of war after witnessing the consequences of war on the populace.
10. When is World Wildlife Day observed?
- 1 March
- 2 March
- 3 March
- 4 March
The correct answer is 3 March.
Key Points
- World Wildlife Day is observed annually on March 3 to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s flora and fauna.
- On December 20, 2013, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 3 March as the UN World Wildlife Day.
The theme for World Wildlife Day 2021 is “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet”.
Additional Information
- The theme of 2022: “Recovering key species for ecosystem restoration”
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