All current affair questions with complete explanation of the month January 1 TO 31 ,2016 for your competitive exam

www.smartkeeda.com, India’s leading test preparation website!

National and States Affairs Q. 1. The Union Government has recently given its approval to ______________________________,

which came into force last month.

A. The Indo-Australian civil nuclear cooperation agreement

B. The Indo-Canadian civil nuclear cooperation agreement

C. The Indo-American civil nuclear cooperation agreement

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: the Union Government

What: given its approval to the Indo-Australian civil nuclear cooperation agreement

When: published on 30th December 2015

For the complete information kindly visit given link:

On 30th December 2015, the Union Government has given its approval to the Indo-Australian civil

nuclear cooperation agreement, which came into force last month.

The civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Australia was brought into force on 13th November 2015,

along with the administrative arrangement for implementing the accord. The deal along with

administrative agreement will bolster energy security by supporting the expansion of nuclear power in

India.

India, which has nuclear energy contributing just 3 per cent of its electricity generation, will be the first

country to buy Australian uranium without being a signatory to the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cabinet-gives-nod-to-indoaustralian-civil-nuclear-

cooperation-deal/article8045395.ece

http://www.smartkeeda.com/

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cabinet-gives-nod-to-indoaustralian-civil-nuclear-cooperation-deal/article8045395.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cabinet-gives-nod-to-indoaustralian-civil-nuclear-cooperation-deal/article8045395.ece


Q. 2. Union Cabinet has recently given its nod for building 69 bridges on Trilateral Highway. Trilateral

Highway will connect which of the following countries?

A. India-Bangladesh-Bhutan B. India-Myanmar-Thailand C. India-Pakistan-Afghanistan

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet of India

What: given its nod for building 69 bridges on Trilateral Highway



The Union Cabinet of India has recently approved the construction of 69 bridges including approach

roads on a major road section of the Trilateral Highway in Myanmar at a cost of Rs 371 crore.

The project will impart all weather usability to the Tamu-Kyigone-Kalewa road section which is also part

of the route for the proposed Imphal-Mandalay bus service.

It will improve connectivity between India and Myanmar and facilitate movement of goods and traffic.

It was agreed in 2012 that India would construct 71 bridges in the Tamu - Kyigone - Kalewa (TKK) road

section of the Trilateral Highway.

About Trilateral Highway:

Trilateral Highway is a proposed strategic road that will connect Moreh, India to Mae Sot, Thailand. The

road will be connecting India, Myanmar and Thailand together. The road's construction began in 2012

which runs from Moreh in India to Thailand's Maesot via Myanmar's Tamu, Mandalay and Myawaddy

along with sharing the border with Myanmar.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/infrastructure/cabinet-nod-for-building-69-

bridges-on-trilateral-highway-in-myanmar/articleshow/50384554.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/infrastructure/cabinet-nod-for-building-69-bridges-on-trilateral-highway-in-myanmar/articleshow/50384554.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/infrastructure/cabinet-nod-for-building-69-bridges-on-trilateral-highway-in-myanmar/articleshow/50384554.cms


Q. 3. Consider the following statements regarding the National Biotechnology Development Strategy

2015-2020.

1. The Strategy will build a Skilled Workforce and Leadership.

2. The Strategy aims to provide impetus to utilizing the knowledge and tools to the advantage of

Humanity.

3. The Strategy will empower scientifically and technologically India’s incomparable Human Resource.

Which of the following statements is/are true?

A. Only 1 and 2 B. Only 2 and 3 C. Only 1 and 3 D. All 1, 2 and 3

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Government

What: unveiled the National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-2020



The National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-2020 was unveiled by the Union Minister for

Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Harsh Vardhan in New Delhi on 30th December 2015. It

aims to establish India as a world-class bio-manufacturing hub.

The envisaged missions are:

1. To provide impetus to utilizing the knowledge and tools to the advantage of Humanity.

2. To launch a major well directed mission backed with significant investment for generation of new

Biotech Products.

3. To empower scientifically and technologically India’s incomparable Human Resource.

4. To create a strong Infrastructure for R&D and Commercialization.

5. To establish India as a world class Bio-manufacturing Hub.

The Key elements of the Strategy are:

1. Building a Skilled Workforce and Leadership.



2. Revitalizing the knowledge environment at par with the growing bio-economy.

3. Enhance Research opportunities in basic, disciplinary and inter-disciplinary sciences.

4. Encourage use-inspired discovery research.

5. Focus on biotechnology tools for inclusive development.

6. Nurturing innovation, translational capacity and entrepreneurship.

7. Ensuring a transparent, efficient and globally best Regulatory system and communication strategy.

8. Biotechnology cooperation- Fostering global and national alliances.

9. Strengthen Institutional Capacity with redesigned governance models.

10. Create a matrix of measurement of processes as well as outcome.

http://www.financialexpress.com/article/healthcare/happening-now/dr-harsh-vardhan-unveils-

national-biotechnology-development-strategy-2015-2020-2/186146/


http://www.financialexpress.com/article/healthcare/happening-now/dr-harsh-vardhan-unveils-national-biotechnology-development-strategy-2015-2020-2/186146/

http://www.financialexpress.com/article/healthcare/happening-now/dr-harsh-vardhan-unveils-national-biotechnology-development-strategy-2015-2020-2/186146/


Q. 4. On 1st January 2016, the World Bank has extended a $50-million loan for which of the following

projects in India?

A. Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP)

B. National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020

C. Nai Manzil Education and Skills Training for Minorities Project

D. Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY)

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: the World Bank

What: extended a $50-million loan for the ‘Nai Manzil Education and Skills Training for Minorities’

project

When: published on 1st January 2015


The World Bank has extended a $50-million loan for the ‘Nai Manzil Education and Skills Training for

Minorities’ project.

The loan agreement for this project was signed between Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Department of

Economic Affairs, on behalf of the Indian Government, and Michael Haney, World Bank’s Operations

Adviser in India on behalf of the World Bank.

About Nai Manzil Scheme:

Nai Manzil Scheme was launched to address educational and livelihood needs of minority communities

in general and muslims in particular as it lags behind other minority communities in terms of educational

attainments. The scheme gives a new direction and a new goal for the all out of school or dropped out

students and those studying in Madrasas.

It aims at providing educational intervention by giving the bridge courses to the trainees and getting

them Certificates for Class XII and X from distance medium educational system.

It will also provide them trade basis skill training in 4 courses including Manufacturing, Engineering,

Services and Soft skills.

The scheme is intended to cover people in between 17 to 35 age group from all minority communities as

well as Madrasa students.



http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/world-bank-extends-50mn-loan-for-nai-manzil-

project/article8054622.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/world-bank-extends-50mn-loan-for-nai-manzil-project/article8054622.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/world-bank-extends-50mn-loan-for-nai-manzil-project/article8054622.ece


Q. 5. After the success of paying subsidy to LPG users in their bank accounts, the Government has

recently decided to implement Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for _____________.

A. Diesel B. Petrol C. Kerosene D. CNG E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: The Government of India

What: decided to implement Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for kerosene

When: published on 2nd January 2015


After the success of paying subsidy to LPG users in their bank accounts, the Government has recently

decided to implement Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for kerosene.

The cash subsidy to be paid to users will be equivalent to the difference between current PDS price of

about Rs 12 and market rate of Rs 43 per litre.

The scheme will be implemented from 1st April in Raipur, Durg and Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh, Panipat and

Panchkula in Haryana, Shimla, Solan and Una in Himachal Pradesh, Chhatra, Giridih, East Singbhum,

Hazaribagh, Jamtara and Khunti in Jharkhand.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/government-to-roll-out-lpg-like-dbt-

scheme-for-kerosene-from-april-1/articleshow/50409655.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/government-to-roll-out-lpg-like-dbt-scheme-for-kerosene-from-april-1/articleshow/50409655.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/government-to-roll-out-lpg-like-dbt-scheme-for-kerosene-from-april-1/articleshow/50409655.cms


Q. 6. The Union Government has recently given its approval to the Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU) signed between India and ____________, for promoting cooperation In the field of Information

Technology and Electronics.

A. Poland B. Jordan C. Canada D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: The Union Government, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

What: given its approval to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Jordan

Why: for promoting cooperation In the field of Information Technology and Electronics



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval to the

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in October, 2015 between India and Jordan for

promoting cooperation In the field of Information Technology and Electronics.

The MoU will develop and strengthen industrial, technological and commercial cooperation between

the two countries in Information Technology and Electronics (IT&E) sector and to implement

institutional and capacity building cooperation programme aimed at fostering partnerships between the

two countries.

The main areas of co-operation between the parties include:-

1. Identifying Capacity Building areas and specific needs of Jordanian IT sector, Design, Plan and

implement IT Capacity Building Programmes for the benefit to Jordan.

2. Cooperation among private and public entities of both countries in the areas of investment and

business promotion.

3. Strengthening of collaboration in the IT&E sector in the areas of e-education, e-Governance, m-

Governance, e-health, telemedicine etc.

4. Sharing of best practices in the areas of regulatory policy and the institutional framework with special

emphasis on developing internationally competitive IT&E manufacturing and services industry.

5. Participation in International events organized by each country, as appropriate, exchange of experts

etc.

http://wap.business-standard.com/article/bs/cabinet-approves-mou-with-jordan-for-cooperation-in-

the-field-of-information-technology-and-electronics-115123001118_1.html


http://wap.business-standard.com/article/bs/cabinet-approves-mou-with-jordan-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-information-technology-and-electronics-115123001118_1.html

http://wap.business-standard.com/article/bs/cabinet-approves-mou-with-jordan-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-information-technology-and-electronics-115123001118_1.html


Q. 7. Which of the following states has recently decided to hike the wages of Anganwadi workers from

Rs. 4,200 to Rs. 7,000?

A. Arunachal Pradesh B. Andhra Pradesh C. Tamil Nadu

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Andhra Pradesh Government

What: decided to hike the wages of Anganwadi workers

When: published on 31st December 2015


The Andhra Pradesh Government has decided to hike the wages of Anganwadi workers from Rs. 4,200

to Rs. 7,000 and the wages of Anganwadi helpers would be hiked to Rs. 4,500.

The decision was taken at the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in

Vijayawada.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/Anganwadi-Workers-in-Andhra-to-Get-Wage-

Hike-AP-Cabinet/2015/12/31/article3204778.ece


http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/Anganwadi-Workers-in-Andhra-to-Get-Wage-Hike-AP-Cabinet/2015/12/31/article3204778.ece

http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/Anganwadi-Workers-in-Andhra-to-Get-Wage-Hike-AP-Cabinet/2015/12/31/article3204778.ece


Q. 8. India with which of the following countries has recently renewed its relationship in the field of

Higher Education?

A. Canada B. Sri Lanka C. South Africa D. United Kingdom

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

What: given its approval for renewal of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and

Canada

Why: for cooperation in Higher Education



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for renewal

of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Canada for cooperation in Higher

Education.

The MoU will help to intensify existing partnerships between India and Canada in the field of Higher

Education.

Background:

A Memorandum of Understanding between India and Canada concerning cooperation in Higher

Education was signed in June, 2010 for a period of five years. As per terms of the MoU, at the end of the

five years, the MoU was to be renewed for a possible renewal for a further five year period. Recognizing

the immense potential of collaboration between Higher Education Institutions of Canada and India and

to further develop the existing bilateral relations in the field of Higher Education and Research, it has

been proposed to further strengthen the educational ties between India and Canada by renewing the

MoU.

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-to-renew-agreement-on-higher-education-with-canada-

1260573


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-to-renew-agreement-on-higher-education-with-canada-1260573

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-to-renew-agreement-on-higher-education-with-canada-1260573


Q. 9. E-Vahan Bima scheme, an online vehicle insurance scheme was recently launched by which

state?

A. Telangana B. Tamil Nadu C. Andhra Pradesh D. Jharkhand

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Telangana Government

What: E-Vahan Bima scheme



Telangana IT & Panchyat Raj Minister K.Rama Rao, launched E-Vahan Bima scheme, an online vehicle

insurance scheme. This is the first such initiative anywhere in India.

The policy was initiated with the joint collaboration of Transport, Police and IT Departments under the

directions of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA).

Under the e-Vahan Bima, electronic motor insurance policies are issued in digital form with Quick

Response (QR) code. As these policies can be stored and accessed on smart phones, the process of

verification will be easier for commuters as well as the police.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/money-and-banking/insurance-industry-needs-better-digital-

solutions-says-irdai-chief/article8061376.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/money-and-banking/insurance-industry-needs-better-digital-solutions-says-irdai-chief/article8061376.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/money-and-banking/insurance-industry-needs-better-digital-solutions-says-irdai-chief/article8061376.ece


Q. 10. The Union Cabinet has recently given its ex-post facto approval for signing of Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) among BRICS countries on _________________________.

A. BRICS Network University B. BRICS Financial Institute

C. BRICS Department of Atomic Energy D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

What: given its ex-post facto approval for signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among

BRICS countries

When: published on 30th January 2016


The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its ex-post facto

approval for signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among BRICS countries on BRICS

Network University. The negotiations were held on this during the 3rd BRICS Education Ministers

meeting and Senior Officials meeting in November, 2015 at Mosco, Russia.

The MoU will help in developing pro-active cooperation among the BRICS nations for the purpose of

enhancement of scientific research, higher education, information exchange, analysis and

implementation of best practices, joint research programmes, and mobility of students, researchers and

educators.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Cabinet-Clears-BRICS-Network-

University/2015/12/30/article3203514.ece


http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Cabinet-Clears-BRICS-Network-University/2015/12/30/article3203514.ece

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Cabinet-Clears-BRICS-Network-University/2015/12/30/article3203514.ece


Q. 11. Consider the following statements regarding recently signed agreement on Ujwal Discom

Assurance Yojana (UDAY) scheme with Union Government by Jharkhand Government.

1. The Agreement will help state government in electrifying remaining 2200 villages in state.

2. Jharkhand would derive an overall net benefit of approximately 5300 Crore rupees through UDAY.


A. Only 1 B. Only 2 C. Both 1 and 2 D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Jharkhand Government

What: signed agreement on Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana (UDAY) scheme with Union Givernment



Jharkhand has become the first state to sign an agreement with the Centre, for the Ujwal Discom

Assurance Yojana (UDAY) reforms for state-owned power distribution companies (discoms).

The agreement in this regard was signed on Tuesday in New Delhi in the presence of Chief Minister

Raghubar Das.

The agreement has come out under UDAY Scheme (Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana) and is expected to

benefit the State to the tune of `5,300 crore in the form of debt reduction and interest cost.

http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/mou-signed-for-power-reforms.html


http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/mou-signed-for-power-reforms.html


Q. 12. Which edition of Indian Science Congress was recently inaugurated by PM Sri Narendra Modi?

A. 103rd B. 102nd C. 101st D. 100th E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: PM Sri Narendra Modi

What: inaugurated 103rd Indian Science Congress

When: published 3rd January 2016


Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 103rd edition of the Indian Science Congress (ISC)

with the theme of ‘Science and Technology for Indigenous Development in India’ on 3rd January 2015 in

Mysuru, Karnataka.

About Indian Science Congress Association:

Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) is a premier scientific organization of India with

headquarters at Kolkata, West Bengal. The association started in the year 1914 in Kolkata and it meets

annually in the first week of January every year. At present it has membership strength of more than

30,000 scientists.

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/indian-science-congress-scientists-hail-indians-

role-in-particle-physics/


http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/indian-science-congress-scientists-hail-indians-role-in-particle-physics/

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/indian-science-congress-scientists-hail-indians-role-in-particle-physics/


Q. 13. On 4th January 2016, after a gap of 27 years, a friendship bus service has been resumed

between India and ________________.

A. Bangladesh B. Pakistan C. Nepal D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: India and Nepal bus service

What: has been resumed after a gap of 27 years



A friendship bus service between India and Nepal has been resumed after a gap of 27 years, much to the

delight of people on either side of the border who have family and trade ties with each other.

The resumed bus service will run between Kanchanpur in Nepal close to Banbasa border in Champavat

district of Uttarakhand and Anand Vihar, Delhi.

The India-Nepal friendship bus service was suspended 27 years back in the wake of the Indo-Nepal

Trade and Transit Treaty. This bus service is mainly used by the people on both sides of the border as

they have family as well as trade relations with each other.

To travel in these buses, passengers don’t require any documents. These buses will provide free wi-fi

connectiviy and a bottle of mineral water for free to the passengers.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/friendship-bus-service-between-india-

nepal-resumes/articleshow/50439187.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/friendship-bus-service-between-india-nepal-resumes/articleshow/50439187.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/friendship-bus-service-between-india-nepal-resumes/articleshow/50439187.cms


Q. 14. The Government of India has recently reduced export duty on which of the following

commodities to 0 percent from 5 percent?

A. Gold Ore Pellets B. Iron Ore Pellets C. Silver Ore Pellets

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: The Government of India

What: reduced export duty on Iron Ore Pellets to 0 percent from 5 percent



The Government of India has recently reduced export duty on iron ore pellets to 0 percent from 5

percent, a move that will make the commodity more competitive amid subdued demand and weakening

prices.

Earlier in 2014, the government levied a 5 percent export duty on iron ore pellets, which are value-

added products of leftover material or low-grade iron ore and are used in steel-making. A notification on

reducing export duty on iron ore pellets was issued by the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC).

http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/economy/govt-abolishes-export-dutyiron-ore-

pellets_4888201.html


http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/economy/govt-abolishes-export-dutyiron-ore-pellets_4888201.html

http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/economy/govt-abolishes-export-dutyiron-ore-pellets_4888201.html


Q. 15. The Supreme Court on 4th January 2016, has directed which of the following states to make

functional State Cooperative Tribunal?

A. Uttar Pradesh B. Gujarat C. Rajasthan D. Haryana E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: the Supreme Court

What: directed the Gujarat government to make functional the Gujarat State Cooperative Tribunal



The Supreme Court on 4th January 2016 has directed the Gujarat government to make functional the

Gujarat State Cooperative Tribunal by filling up the vacant posts including that of judicial members,

which is the bone of contention.

The tribunal cannot be allowed to be non-functional and state government’s petition challenging the

Gujarat High Court directive to fill the position of the President of the tribunal and members of the

Board of Nominees can be examined in due course.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/sc-asks-gujarat-govt-to-make-functional-cooperative-

tribunal/1/562075.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/sc-asks-gujarat-govt-to-make-functional-cooperative-tribunal/1/562075.html

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/sc-asks-gujarat-govt-to-make-functional-cooperative-tribunal/1/562075.html


Q. 16. Who has recently inaugurated the 7th National Conference on Women in Police at CRPF

Academy, Kadarpur, Gurgaon?

A. Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh B. Minister of Finance, Arun Jaitley

C. Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh

What: inaugurated the 7th National Conference on Women in Police at CRPF Academy

Where: in Kadarpur, Gurgaon



Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 7th National Conference on Women in Police

at CRPF Academy, Kadarpur, Gurgaon on 6th January 2016.

The theme of this Conference is ‘Capacity Building and Leadership’ and the sub themes are Role of

Women in Conflict Resolution; Work and Life Balance; Creating Gender-Sensitive Work Infrastructure

and Equipment; and Strategies to handle human trafficking.

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=134233




Q. 17. Union Government has recently launched Ganga Gram Yojana to develop 1600 villages in which

of the following states?

A. Uttrakhand B. Uttar Pradesh C. West Bengal D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember


What: launched Ganga Gram Yojana to develop 1600 villages in Uttar Pradesh



Union Government has recently launched Ganga Gram Yojana to develop 1600 villages in Hapur, Uttar

Pradesh.

In the first phase of the progamme 200 villages have been selected. In these villages open drains falling

into river Ganga will be diverted and alternative arrangements for sewage treatment will be made. The

villages will have toilets in every house hold. It is proposed to incur and expenditure of Rs. One crore on

every village.These villages will be developed under the Sichewal model. It may be noted that Sichewal

is situated in Punjab, where cooperation of the villagers has been solicited for the water management

and waste disposal in a meticulous way.





Q. 18. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Stand Up India Scheme’ that was recently

approved by Union Cabinet.

1. The Scheme will promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and Women entrepreneurs.

2. It will open refinance window through Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) with an

initial amount of Rs. 30,000 crore.

3. It will create a credit guarantee mechanism through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee

Company (NCGTC).



E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

What: approved ‘Stand Up India Scheme’

Why: to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and Women entrepreneurs



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the ‘Stand Up

India Scheme’ to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and Women entrepreneurs. The Scheme is

intended to facilitate at least two such projects per bank branch, on an average one for each category of

entrepreneur. It is expected to benefit at least 2.5 lakh borrowers.

The ‘Stand Up India Scheme’ provides for:

Refinance window through Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) with an initial amount of

Rs. 10,000 crore.

Creation of a credit guarantees mechanism through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company

(NCGTC).

Handholding support for borrowers both at the pre loan stage and during operations. This would include

increasing their familiarity with factoring services, registration with online platforms and e-market

places as well as sessions on best practices and problem solving.



The details of the scheme are as follows:

Focus is on handholding support for both SC/ST and Women borrowers.

The overall intent of the approval is to leverage the institutional credit structure to reach out to these

under-served sectors of the population by facilitating bank loans repayable up to 7 years and between

Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 100 lakh for Greenfield enterprises in the non farm sector set up by such SC, ST and

Women borrowers.

The loan under the scheme would be appropriately secured and backed by a credit guarantee through a

credit guarantee scheme for which Department of Financial Services would be the settler and National

Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Ltd. (NCGTC) would be the operating agency.

Margin money of the composite loan would be up to 25%. Convergence with state schemes is expected

to reduce the actual requirement of margin money for a number of borrowers.

Over a period of time, it is proposed that a credit history of the borrower be built up through Credit

Bureaus.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/cabinet-approves-stand-up-india-

scheme-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-yojana-to-be-created/articleshow/50475603.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/cabinet-approves-stand-up-india-scheme-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-yojana-to-be-created/articleshow/50475603.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/cabinet-approves-stand-up-india-scheme-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-yojana-to-be-created/articleshow/50475603.cms


Q. 19. On 6th January 2016, the Union Cabinet has approved MoU with Bangladesh on

____________________.

A. Settling up ‘Border Haats’ B. Exchanging Economic Informations

C. Exchanging Military Exercises D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: The Union Cabinet

What: approved MoU with Bangladesh on settling up ‘Border Haats’



The Union Cabinet has recently given its approval to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between

India and Bangladesh, in order to set up ‘border haats’ or ‘local markets’ on the confines of India-

Bangladesh.

The Border Haats aim at promoting the well-being of the people dwelling in remote areas across the

borders of two countries, by establishing traditional system of marketing the local produce thorough

local markets in local currency and/or barter basis. Though not significant as a percentage of bilateral

trade, these measures help to improve economic well-being of marginalized sections of society.

http://www.newsgram.com/cabinet-approves-mou-on-setting-up-indo-bangla-border-haats/


http://www.newsgram.com/cabinet-approves-mou-on-setting-up-indo-bangla-border-haats/


Q. 20. The Union Cabinet has recently given its approval to convert MUDRA Ltd. into

A. MUDRA Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) Bank

B. MUDRA National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Bank

C. MUDRA State Bank of India (SBI) Bank

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi

What: given its approval to convert MUDRA Ltd. into MUDRA Small Industries Development Bank of

India (SIDBI) Bank



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for the

creation of a Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) loans and

to convert MUDRA Ltd. into MUDRA Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) Bank as a wholly

owned subsidiary of SIDBI.

The Fund is expected to guarantee more than Rs 1,00,000 crore worth of loans to micro and small units

in the first instance.

The salient features of the scheme are as follows:

1. Establishment of Credit Guarantee Fund for MUDRA Units (CGFMU) for guaranteeing loans

sanctioned under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana with effect from 8th April, 2015 with the objective to

reduce the credit risk to Banks / NBFCs / MFIs / other financial intermediaries, who are

Member Lending Institutions (MLIs).

2. The National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Ltd. (NCGTC Ltd.), a wholly-owned company of

Government of India, constituted under the Companies Act, 1956 (2013) to manage and operate

various credit guarantee funds, shall be the Trustee of the Fund.

3. The guarantee would be provided on portfolio basis to a maximum extent of 50% of Amount

in Default in the portfolio.

The MUDRA (SIDBI) Bank will undertake refinance operations and provide support services with focus on

portal management; data analysis etc. apart from any other activity entrusted/ advised by Government

of India.



http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/cabinet-nod-for-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-

loans/article8072718.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/cabinet-nod-for-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-loans/article8072718.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/cabinet-nod-for-credit-guarantee-fund-for-mudra-loans/article8072718.ece


Q. 21. Which one of the following statements is true regarding River Information System (RIS) that

was recently launched by the Union Government?

A. It will facilitate safe and accurate navigation on National Waterway - 1 on River Ganga.

B. It will facilitate safe and accurate navigation on National Waterway - 1 on River Brahmaputra.

C. It will facilitate safe and accurate navigation on National Waterway - 1 on River Narmada.

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: the Union Government

What: launched a River Information System (RIS)



Union Government on 6th January 2016 has launched a River Information System (RIS) that will facilitate

safe and accurate navigation on National Waterway - 1 on River Ganga.

The System is being implemented under the overall responsibility of the Inland Waterway Authority of

India, a statutory body administered by the Ministry of Shipping.

About River Information System:

River Information System (RIS) functions like air traffic control to ensure smooth flow of vessels and

cargo on the waterway. The system facilitates comprehensive planning of traffic in coastal waters,

contributing to efficient use of inland waterways.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/River-Information-System-Launched-to-Facilitate-Safe-

Accurate-Navigation/2016/01/07/article3215522.ece


http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/River-Information-System-Launched-to-Facilitate-Safe-Accurate-Navigation/2016/01/07/article3215522.ece

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/River-Information-System-Launched-to-Facilitate-Safe-Accurate-Navigation/2016/01/07/article3215522.ece


Q. 22. Who has recently been appointed as full time Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog?

A. Kumar Sanjay Krishna B. Amitabh Kant C. Kadim Narayana D. M C Jauhari

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Amitabh Kant

What: full time Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog



Secretary in the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Amitabh Kant has recently been

appointed as full time Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog. He will succeed former IAS officer

Sindhushree Khullar, who was appointed as first CEO of the National Institution for Transforming India

(Niti) Aayog for one year starting 1st January 2015.

About Amitabh Kant

Amitabh Kant is a 1980 batch IAS officer of Kerela cadre. He is at present the Secretary, Department of

Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He is the author of ‘Branding India

– An Incredible Story.’



About NITI Aayog:

The National Institution for Transforming India Aayog or NITI Aayog is a Government of India policy

think-tank established by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to replace the Planning Commission. It’s aim is

to foster involvement and participation in the economic policy-making process by the State

Governments of India. One of the important mandates of NITI Aayog is to bring cooperative competitive

federalism.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/dipp-secretary-amitabh-kant-to-take-

over-as-niti-aayog-ceo/articleshow/50487616.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/dipp-secretary-amitabh-kant-to-take-over-as-niti-aayog-ceo/articleshow/50487616.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/dipp-secretary-amitabh-kant-to-take-over-as-niti-aayog-ceo/articleshow/50487616.cms


Q. 23. President of India on 10th January 2016 has inaugurated which edition of Annual Conference of

Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan?

A. 86th B. 78th C. 88th D. 90th E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee

What: inaugurated the 88th annual conference of Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan



The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee on 10th January 2016 has inaugurated the three day long

88th annual conference of Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan at Ranchi, Jharkhand.

About Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan:

Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan is an annual convention of Bengali literary personages of India

which is held annually. The first annual conference was held in Benares in 1922 and was presided over

by Kobiguru Rabindranath Thakur. The first sponsors were distinguished 'Bengalis living outside Bengal'

('Prabasis') like Atul Prasad Sen, Radhakamal Mukherjee, Kedar Nath Bandyopadhyay, Mahendra

Chandra Roy.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/president-of-india-inaugurates-

88th-annual-conference-of-nikhil-bharat-banga-116011100003_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/president-of-india-inaugurates-88th-annual-conference-of-nikhil-bharat-banga-116011100003_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/president-of-india-inaugurates-88th-annual-conference-of-nikhil-bharat-banga-116011100003_1.html


Q. 24. Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) has recently signed an MoU with which of the following

states to invest 38,500 crore to take up various projects?

A. Tamil Nadu B. Maharashtra C. Gujarat D. Andhra Pradesh

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL)

What: singed an MoU with Andhra Pradesh Government

Why: to invest 38,500 crore to take up various projects

Where: at Visakhapatnam



Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has recently

signed an MoU with Andhra Pradesh Government to invest 38,000 crore to take up various projects at

Visakhapatnam.

The MoU was signed during the ‘22nd Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit & 1st

Sunrise AP Investment Meet’ currently under way in Visakhapatnam.

This includes expansion of RINL to 7.3 million tonne per annum (mtpa) & modernization with an

investment of Rs 3,600 crores, construction of Coke Oven Battery-5 and other projects at an investment

of Rs 3,400 crore.

Additionally, the overall investment figure of Rs 38,500 crore also includes further expansion of RINL to

11.5 to 12 mtpa with an estimated investment of Rs 25,000 crore. RINL will also spend Rs 6100 crore on

a slurry pipeline & pellet plant in joint venture with NMD.

About Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited:

Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited is an Indian government owned steel producer which is based in

Visakhapatnam. It has been awarded the Navaratna status, with accompanying autonomy of operations,

due to its strong financial performance.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/metals-mining/rinl-signs-mou-with-

andhra-pradesh-government-for-investment-of-rs-38500-crore/articleshow/50531108.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/metals-mining/rinl-signs-mou-with-andhra-pradesh-government-for-investment-of-rs-38500-crore/articleshow/50531108.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/metals-mining/rinl-signs-mou-with-andhra-pradesh-government-for-investment-of-rs-38500-crore/articleshow/50531108.cms


Q. 25. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Minister of Shipping has recently unveiled

measures to improve road safety across the country. What is the theme of Road Safety Week 2015?

A. Build a Safety Culture for Sustainable Supply Chain and Safety is not just a slogan, It's a way of life

B. Road Safety A Mission, Not Intermission

C. Stay Alive, don't drink and drive

D. Road Safety - Time for Action

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: 27th Road Safety Week

What: was observed across India



Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Minister of Shipping, Nitin Gadkari has recently

unveiled measures to improve road safety across the country.

The measures were announced at the launch of the 27th Road Safety Week on 11th January 2016. The

Road Safety Week is organized every year to create awareness among general public to improve the

safety on road.

Road Safety Week themes:

The theme for 2016 Road Safety Week is set as “Road Safety - Time for Action”

The theme for Road Safety Week 2015 was “Build a Safety Culture for Sustainable Supply Chain" and

"Safety is not just a slogan, It's a way of life”.

The theme for Road Safety Week 2014 was “Walk for Road Safety”.

The theme for Road Safety Week 2013 was “Stay Alive, don't drink and drive”.

The theme for Road Safety Week 2011 was “Road Safety A Mission, Not Intermission”.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/india-observes-27th-road-safety-week/1/568564.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/india-observes-27th-road-safety-week/1/568564.html


Q. 26. Which of the following states is true as India-Australia Social Security Agreement comes into

operation recently?

A. People of both countries can avail retirement benefits in each other's country.

B. People of both countries can deliver knowledge to enable societies to meet sustainable

developmental goals in the coming decades.

C. People of both countries can strengthen their relationships and cooperation in the area of Ayurveda

education and research

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: India and Australia Social Security Agreement

What: comes into operation



A new social security agreement signed between India and Australia has come into operation enabling

people of both nations to avail retirement benefits in each other's country, a pact likely to boost

bilateral business linkages.

The Agreement was signed in November 2014 came into operation on 1st January 2016. This agreement

will give people more freedom to move between Australia and India, knowing their pension rights will

be recognized and protected.

Australian residents living in India will be able to claim the Australian Age Pension without having to

return to Australia, while Indian residents living in Australia will have access to Indian retirement

pensions.

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-australia-social-security-agreement-comes-into-operation-

1264414


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-australia-social-security-agreement-comes-into-operation-1264414

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-australia-social-security-agreement-comes-into-operation-1264414


Q. 27. The Supreme Court has recently stayed the Central Government’s notification of lifting ban on

controversial bull-taming sport ‘Jallikattu’ in which of the following states?

A. Karnataka B. Tamil Nadu C. Jharkhand D. Kerala

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: the Supreme Court

What: stayed the Central Government’s notification of lifting ban on controversial bull-taming sport

‘Jallikattu’

Where: in Tamil Nadu



The Supreme Court has recently stayed the Central Government’s notification of lifting ban on

controversial bull-taming sport ‘Jallikattu’ in Tamil Nadu.

In this regard, a notification has been issued to Centre, Tamil Nadu and other states where 'Jallikattu’ is

played. The decision was taken by an apex court bench headed by Chief Justice T.S. Thakur.

About Jallikattu:

Jallikattu is an ancient bull taming ritual required for reproduction of cows and bulls which is required in

Tamil Nadu as part of Pongal celebrations on Mattu Pongal day. This is one of the oldest living ancient

traditions seen in the modern era. It is held in the villages of Tamil Nadu as a part of the village festival.

The festivals are held from January to July, every year.

In May 2014, the Supreme Court of India banned the sport citing animal welfare issues.

https://in.news.yahoo.com/sc-stays-centres-notification-lifting-ban-jallikattu-080759910.html


https://in.news.yahoo.com/sc-stays-centres-notification-lifting-ban-jallikattu-080759910.html


Q. 28. Consider the following statements regarding the MoU between India and Maldives that was

singed cooperation in the field of Health.

1. Exchange & training of medical doctors, officials, other health professionals and experts.

2. Management of healthcare sector and public health services.

3. Assistance in development of human resources and setting up of health care facilities.

Which of the following statements does/do covers the MoU?


E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: the Union Cabinet

What: given its ex-post facto approval for the (MoU) between India and Maldives that was singed

cooperation in the field of Health



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its ex-post facto

approval for the MoU between India and Maldives that was signed on cooperation in the field of Health.

The MoU covers the following areas of cooperation:

1. Exchange & training of medical doctors, officials, other health professionals and experts.

2. Assistance in development of human resources and setting up of health care facilities.

3. Medical and health research development.

4. Management of healthcare sector and public health services.

5. Procurement of generic and essential drugs and assistance in sourcing of drug supplies.

6. Health promotion and disease prevention.

7. Traditional and; complementary Medicine.

8. Telemedicine and Any other area of cooperation as may be mutually decided upon.



This MoU will facilitate greater cooperation between the two countries, especially for assisting Maldives

for development of human resources and facilities for healthcare. Enhanced cooperation in the field of

health will foster great friendship and relations between the two countries.

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/cabinet-gives-nod-to-health-pact-between-india-and-maldives-

1265414


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/cabinet-gives-nod-to-health-pact-between-india-and-maldives-1265414

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/cabinet-gives-nod-to-health-pact-between-india-and-maldives-1265414


Q. 29. Consider the following statements regarding Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana that was

recently launched by Union Cabinet.

1. Farmers will have to pay a uniform premium of 3 percent for all kharif crops and 2 per cent for all

rabi crops.

2. For annual commercial and horticultural crops, farmers will have to pay a premium of 5 per cent.



Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet

What: launched Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana



The Union Cabinet has recently approved the launch of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (Prime

Minister Crop Insurance Scheme). In which the premium rates to be paid by the farmers have been

brought down substantially so as to enable more farmers avail insurance cover against crop loss on

account of natural calamities. The scheme will come into effect from the upcoming kharif season.

Under the new scheme, farmers will have to pay a uniform premium of two per cent for all kharif crops

and 1.5 per cent for all rabi crops. For annual commercial and horticultural crops, farmers will have to

pay a premium of 5 per cent. The remaining share of the premium, as in previous schemes, will continue

to be borne equally by the Centre and the respective state governments.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/cabinet-approves-new-crop-insurance-

scheme-116011301004_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/cabinet-approves-new-crop-insurance-scheme-116011301004_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/cabinet-approves-new-crop-insurance-scheme-116011301004_1.html


Q. 30. On 9th January 2016, Governor’s Rule has recently been imposed in which of the following

states?

A. Jammu and Kashmir B. Jharkhand C. West Bengal D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Governor’s Rule

What: has been imposed in Jammu and Kashmir



Governor’s Rule has recently been imposed in Jammu and Kashmir after the death of Chief Minister

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

The President cleared the recommendation of the Union home ministry for imposing governor's rule on

the basis of a recommendation from Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra.

About Governor’s Rule:

In the state of Jammu and Kashmir, failure of constitutional machinery results in Governor's rule,

imposed by invoking Section 92 of Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. The proclamation is issued by

the state's Governor after obtaining the consent of the President of India. If it is not possible to revoke

Governor's rule before within six months of imposition, President's Rule under Article 356 of the Indian

Constitution is imposed. There is little practical difference between the two provisions.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Governors-rule-imposed-in-Jammu-and-

Kashmir/articleshow/50515916.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Governors-rule-imposed-in-Jammu-and-Kashmir/articleshow/50515916.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Governors-rule-imposed-in-Jammu-and-Kashmir/articleshow/50515916.cms


Q. 31. Which of the following states has recently become first in the country to achieve 100% primary

education?

A. Tamil Nadu B. Kerala C. Andhra Pradesh D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Kerala

What: has become first in the country to achieve 100% primary education



Kerala has recently become first state in India to achieve 100% primary education. This has been

achieved through the primary education equivalency drive of the state literacy mission – Athulyam

Programme.

Around 2.6 lakh candidates appeared for the 4th standard equivalency examination in June 2015 and 2.2

lakh candidates qualified. The equivalency examination was held in 6,613 centres across the state and

those who scored 30/75 in English and 20/50 in other subjects were declared winners.

About Athulyam:

Athulyar Programme was launched on 8th March 2013. Through this Programme, it is ensured that

everyone from 15 to 50 years will have the minimum educational qualification of a 4th grade student.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Kerala-becomes-1st-state-in-country-to-achieve-100-primary-

education/articleshow/50540263.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Kerala-becomes-1st-state-in-country-to-achieve-100-primary-education/articleshow/50540263.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Kerala-becomes-1st-state-in-country-to-achieve-100-primary-education/articleshow/50540263.cms


Q. 32. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Start-up India, Stand-up India’ action plan that

was recently launched by PM Sri Narendra Modi?

1. An online portal, in the shape of a mobile application, will be launched to help start-up founders to

easily register.

2. The adoption of self-certification by Start-ups will apply to laws including payment of gratuity,

labour contract, provident fund management, water and air pollution acts.

3. The government will further establish five new biotech clusters, 50 new bio incubators, 150

technology transfer offices and 20 bio-connect offices in the country.



E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi

What: launched ‘Start-up India, Stand-up India’ action plan



Some Key features Start-up India, Stand-up India action plan:

1. Government to create Rs. 10,000 crore corpus fund for development and growth of innovation driven

enterprises. It will be Rs. 2500 crore a year for four years.

2. Liberalised Fast-track mechanism for start-up patent applications under intellectual property rights

protection with 80% cost rebate.

3. Encouraging startups to participate in public procurement by easing norms of minimum

turnover/experience.

4. Mobile apps, portal for register start-ups in a day from 1st April 2016. Establishing Credit guarantee

fund and special scheme for women entrepreneurs.

5. Sector specific incubators 500 tinkering labs, per-incubation and seed funds under the Atal Innovation

mission.



6. Public-private partnership (PPP) model for 35 new incubators, 7 new research parks, 31 innovation

centres at national institutes and 5 new Bio clusters will be set up to help Biotech Sector.

7. Government to start Atal Innovation Mission to give an impetus to innovation and encouraging talent

among young people by instituting national awards.

8. Government to promote the provision of core innovation programmes in 5 lakh schools across the

country.

9. Tax exemption to be provided on capital gains if money is invested in another start up.

10. Compliance regime based on self-certification for labour and environmental laws. Easy exit policy for

start-ups with 90 days.

11. Start-up profits to be tax-free for 3 years and also no labour inspections for 3 years of launch of the

venture.

http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/features/12-significant-announcements-from-the-startup-india-

action-plan-790781


http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/features/12-significant-announcements-from-the-startup-india-action-plan-790781

http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/features/12-significant-announcements-from-the-startup-india-action-plan-790781


Q. 33. Which one of the following has recently inaugurated the first phase of permanent campus of

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) at Vithura near Thiruvananthapuram?

A. Minister of External Affairs of India, Sushma Swaraj

B. Minister of Home Affairs of India, Rajnath Singh

C. Minister of Human Resource Development, Smriti Irani

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Minister of Human Resource Development, Smriti Irani

What: inaugurated the first phase of permanent campus of Indian Institute of Science Education and

Research (IISER)

Where: at Vithura near Thiruvananthapuram



Union Human Resource Development Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani inaugurated the permanent

campus (Phase I) of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) at Vithura near

Thiruvananthapuram on 14th January 2016.





Q. 34. Which of the following statement is true regarding recently published recommendations of R V

Easwar Committee on simplification of the provisions of IT Act, 1961?

A. The Committee has suggested lowering capital gains tax on annual earning of less than ₹5 lakh from

share trading rather than treating it as a business income.

B. The Committee has recommended that General Insurance Corporation (GIC) and Deposit Insurance

and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) provide the risk cover.

C. The Committee gas reviewed five key green laws concerning protection and conservation of

environment, forest, wildlife, water and air among others.

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: V Easwar Committee

What: suggested lowering capital gains tax on annual earning of less than ₹5 lakh from share trading

rather than treating it as a business income



The RV Easwar Committee on simplification of income tax laws has recently suggested amendments to

allow for lower capital gains tax on annual earning of less than ₹5 lakh from share trading rather than

treating it as a business income. Accordingly, it has suggested taxing the gains at 15 per cent and not 30

per cent. But it will be taxed as long-term capital gains if held for more than one year and shown as

capital assets.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/easwar-panel-recommends-lower-capital-gains-

tax/article8121083.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/easwar-panel-recommends-lower-capital-gains-tax/article8121083.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/easwar-panel-recommends-lower-capital-gains-tax/article8121083.ece


Q. 35. On 20th January 2016, India has signed a $250 million financing agreement with World Bank for

which of the following projects?

A. Uttar Pradesh Basin Development Project B. Bihar Kosi Basin Development Project

C. Madhya Pradesh Narmada Basin Development Project D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: India and World Bank

What: signed loan agreement for Bihar Kosi Basin Development Project



India on 20th January 2016 has signed a $250 million financing agreement with World Bank for Bihar Kosi

Basin development project.

The objective of the agreement is to enhance resilience to floods and increase agricultural production

and productivity in the targeted districts in the Kosi River Basin. It will also focus on enhancing Bihar’s

capacity to respond promptly and effectively to an eligible crisis or emergency.

Five components of Projects are:

1. Improvement of flood risk management.

2. Enhancement of agricultural productivity and competitiveness.

3. Augmenting connectivity.

4. Contingent emergency response.

5. Implementation support.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/world-bank-loan-to-develop-kosi-

basin/article8130796.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/world-bank-loan-to-develop-kosi-basin/article8130796.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/world-bank-loan-to-develop-kosi-basin/article8130796.ece


Q. 36. What is India’s rank in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) for the year 2015-16?

A. 89th B. 90th C. 91st D. 92nd E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: India

What: ranked at the 89th position in Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) for the year 2015-16



India has ranked at the 89th position in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) for the year

2015-16 in the list of 109 countries. The list has been compiled by the INSEAD business school, in

partnership with Adecco and Human Capital Leadership Institute of Singapore (HCLI).

About the Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI):

The Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI) is an annual benchmarking study measuring the ability

of countries to compete for talent. Designed as a practical tool for governments, businesses and non-

profit organizations, GTCI ranks over 100 economies according to their ability to develop, attract and

retain talent. It was launched first in 2013.

GTCI 2015-16 focuses on the highly topical issue of international mobility and its impact on talent

competitiveness. It will be launched on 19th January 2016 in Davos.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/global-talent-competitiveness-index/1/575134.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/global-talent-competitiveness-index/1/575134.html


Q. 37. Which of the following statements is/are true according to the first phase of the latest National

Family Health Survey that is known as NFHS-4?

1. The sex ratio has significantly increased in nine out of 11 states of India.

2. The women's literacy rate has gone up in each of those states.

3. Children delivered in a medical institution under supervision have increased by 32.8 per cent.


E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: National Family Health Survey

What: have been introduce in its kind of first phase



According to the first phase of the latest National Family Health Survey, the sex ratio has significantly

decreased in nine out of 11 states of India, whereas women's literacy has gone up in each of those

states in the past 10 years.

In these 11 states, on an average, there are 985 females per 1,000 males in 2015-16 compared to 1,000

females per 1,000 males in 2005-06. Women's literacy has increased 12.15 per cent in these 11 states.

According to the survey, children delivered in a medical institution under supervision have increased by

32.8 per cent in the past 10 years. Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Bihar saw a huge rise of 54.6 per

cent, 44.8 per cent and 43.9 per cent, respectively in institutional deliveries.

Goa, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, Tripura, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, Bihar,

and West Bengal are the 11 selected states where survey took place.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/sex-ratio-down-literacy-rate-of-women-up-

family-health-survey-116012000029_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/sex-ratio-down-literacy-rate-of-women-up-family-health-survey-116012000029_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/sex-ratio-down-literacy-rate-of-women-up-family-health-survey-116012000029_1.html


Q. 38. Union cabinet has recently given its approval for the agreement signed in November 2015

between India and ______________ for Cooperation in Public Administration and Governance

Reforms.

A. United Kingdom B. United States C. Republic of China

D. Canada E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet

What: approve agreement signed between India and United Kingdom

Why: for Cooperation in Public Administration and Governance Reforms



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its ex-post facto

approval for the agreement signed in November, 2015 between India and United Kingdom for

Cooperation in Public Administration and Governance Reforms.

The Agreement will help in understanding the system of customer oriented public service delivery in UK

with reference to rapidly changing environments in the area of public service management and enable

in replicating, adapting and innovating some of the best practices and processes in the Indian Public

Service Delivery System, leading to improved public service delivery in India.

http://www.firstpost.com/world/cabinet-approval-to-mou-between-india-britain-for-cooperation-in-

public-administration-2592118.html


http://www.firstpost.com/world/cabinet-approval-to-mou-between-india-britain-for-cooperation-in-public-administration-2592118.html

http://www.firstpost.com/world/cabinet-approval-to-mou-between-india-britain-for-cooperation-in-public-administration-2592118.html


Q. 39. Which of the following statements is/are true according to recently approved amendments in

Power Tariff Policy?

1. 24X7 supply of electricity will be ensured to all consumers.

2. No InterState transmission charges and losses will be levied for solar and wind power.

3. Smart meters will be installed fast to enable ‘Time of Day’ metering, reduce theft and allow net-

metering.


E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember


What: has approved amendments in Power Tariff Policy



The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has recently approved the

proposal of the Ministry of Power for amendments in the Tariff Policy.

The amendments are aimed at achieving the objectives of Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) with

the focus on 4 Es: Electricity for all, Efficiency to ensure affordable tariffs, Environment for a sustainable

future, Ease of doing business to attract investments and ensure financial viability.

Highlights of Amendments are:

Electricity:

1. 24X7 supply will be ensured to all consumers and State Governments and regulators will devise a

power supply trajectory to achieve this.

2. Power to be provided to remote unconnected villages through micro grids with provision for purchase

of power into the grid as and when the grid reaches there.

3. Affordable power for people near coal mines by enabling procurement of power from coal washery

reject based plants.

Efficiency:

1. Reduce power cost to consumers through expansion of existing power plants.



2. Benefit from sale of un-requisitioned power to be shared allowing for reduction in overall power cost.

3. Transmission projects to be developed through competitive bidding process to ensure faster

completion at lower cost.

4. Faster installation of Smart meters to enable “Time of Day” metering, reduce theft and allow net-

metering.

5. Lower power cost by creating transmission capacity for accessing power from across India.

Environment:

1. Renewable Power Obligation (RPO): In order to promote renewable energy and energy security, 8% of

electricity consumption excluding hydro power, shall be from solar energy by March 2022.

2. Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO): New coal/lignite based thermal plants after specified date

to also establish/procure/purchase renewable capacity

3. Affordable renewable power through bundling of renewable power with power from plants whose

PPAs have expired or completed their useful life.

4. No inter-State transmission charges and losses to be levied for solar and wind power.

5. Swachh Bharat Mission to get a big boost with procurement of 100% power produced from Waste-to-

Energy plants.

6. To release clean drinking water for cities and reduce pollution of rivers like Ganga, thermal plants

within 50 km of sewage treatment facilities to use treated sewage water.

7. Promotion of Hydro projects through long term PPAs and exemption from competitive bidding till

August 2022.

8. Ancillary services to support grid operation for expansion of renewable energy.

Ease of Doing Business:

1. Generate employment in coal rich Eastern states like Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh

etc. by encouraging investments. States allowed to setup plants, with up to 35% of power procured by

DSICOMs on regulated tariff.

2. Remove market uncertainty by allowing pass through for impact of any change in domestic duties,

levies, cess and taxes in competitive bid projects.

3. Clarity on tariff setting authority for multi-State sales. Central Regulator to determine tariff for

composite schemes where more than 10% power sold outside State.

http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-new-tariff-policy-to-boost-investment-clean-energy-2168214


http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-new-tariff-policy-to-boost-investment-clean-energy-2168214


Q. 40. On 19th January 2016, which of the following states has approved 35 percent job reservation for

women?

A. Jharkhand B. Bihar C. Andhra Pradesh D. West Bengal

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Bihar Government

What: approved 35 percent job reservation for women



The Bihar Cabinet has recently approved 35 percent reservation for women in all government jobs in the

state. In this regard, the decision was taken by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Women under reserved and

unreserved category would be able to get reservation benefit.

http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/bihar-cabinet-okays-35-per-cent-job-reservation-for-

women_1846968.html


http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/bihar-cabinet-okays-35-per-cent-job-reservation-for-women_1846968.html

http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/bihar-cabinet-okays-35-per-cent-job-reservation-for-women_1846968.html


Q. 41. Which of the following states has recently signed an agreement with Tata Trusts for a skill

training programme for the youth in the state?

A. Jharkhand B. Gujarat C. Maharashtra D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Maharashtra Government

What: signed an agreement with Tata Trusts

Why: for a skill training programme for the youth in the state



The Maharashtra Government has recently signed an agreement with Tata Trusts for a skill training

programme for the youth in the state.

The programme has been undertaken under the state government's ‘Kushal Maharashtra, Rojgaryukt

Maharashtra’ initiative. The programme will help in making one lakh youths employable.

Under the programme, skill development and vocational training centers will be set up in 10 districts in

the state. Virtual classrooms will also be set up in 100 ITIs in Maharashtra.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/maharashtra-government-tata-trusts-

ink-mou-for-skill-training-of-youth/articleshow/50640658.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/maharashtra-government-tata-trusts-ink-mou-for-skill-training-of-youth/articleshow/50640658.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/maharashtra-government-tata-trusts-ink-mou-for-skill-training-of-youth/articleshow/50640658.cms


Q. 42. On 22nd January 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off Mahamana Express. The

train will run between which of the following cities?

A. New Delhi and Varanasi B. Agra and Varanasi C. New Delhi and Jaipur

D. Mumbai and Chennai E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi

What: flagged off Mahamana Express



Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi on 22nd January 2016 has flagged of New Delhi-Varanasi superfast

Mahamana Express. The train will run thrice a week between these stations. The train with refurbished

coaches and added facilities will take less than 14 hours to cover the journey between Delhi and

Varanasi. Passengers will have to pay more for travelling on New Delhi-Varanasi superfast Mahamana

Express as the Railways has raised the fare by 15 per cent.

The train will depart from New Delhi station at 6.35 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from

January 25 and will reach Varanasi at 8.25 a.m. the next day.

The train will depart from Varanasi at 6.35 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from January 26

to reach New Delhi at 8.25 a.m. the next day.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/15-per-cent-fare-hike-in-new-mahamana-

express/article8137020.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/15-per-cent-fare-hike-in-new-mahamana-express/article8137020.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/15-per-cent-fare-hike-in-new-mahamana-express/article8137020.ece


Q. 43. Which of the following states has recently launched ‘Giriputrika Kalyana Pathakam’ for tribal

people?

A. Andhra Pradesh B. Arunachal Pradesh C. Madhya Pradesh D. Chhattisgarh

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Andhra Pradesh Government

What: ‘Giriputrika Kalyana Pathakam’ for tribal people



Andhra Pradesh Government has recently launched ‘Giriputrika Kalyana Pathakam’ Scheme for tribal

people to provide a onetime financial assistance of Rs.50,000 to each tribal woman who gets married in

her childhood.

The amount would be disbursed through District Tribal Welfare Office directly to the bank accounts of

the beneficiary.

To get the benefit of the scheme, each person who is suffered would have to fulfill some mandatory

conditions like submission of marriage certificate, income certificate etc to avail benefits of the scheme.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/giriputrika-kalyana-pathakam-

launched/article8138152.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/giriputrika-kalyana-pathakam-launched/article8138152.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/giriputrika-kalyana-pathakam-launched/article8138152.ece


Q. 44. On 20th January 2016, which of the following scheme was launched in Jammu and Kashmir for

first time?

A. Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana B. Nai Manjil Scheme C. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Nai Manjil Scheme

What: launched in Jammu and Kashmir for first time



On 20th January 2016, The 'Nai Manzil' scheme has been launched for the first time in Jammu and

Kashmir. The scheme was launched for girls in Srinagar.

Under the scheme girls from minority communities will be imparted three month skill development

training in seven identified sectors relevant to the region. These include training in saffron processing,

food processing, embroidery, computers IT (both software and hardware), Tourism and hospitality,

electronics and plumbing. Trainees will also be given stipend of Rs.4500/-for the course.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/nai-manzil-scheme-launched-in-jammu-and-

kashmir-on-20th-january-2016-dr-najma-heptulla-116012200552_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/nai-manzil-scheme-launched-in-jammu-and-kashmir-on-20th-january-2016-dr-najma-heptulla-116012200552_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/nai-manzil-scheme-launched-in-jammu-and-kashmir-on-20th-january-2016-dr-najma-heptulla-116012200552_1.html


Q. 45. The 4th India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference was recently concluded in which of the following

cities in India?

A. Chennai B. New Delhi C. Hyderabad D. Mumbai

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: the 4th India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference

What: concluded

Where: in New Delhi



The 4th India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference was recently concluded in New Delhi, with the Minister of

Petroleum and Natural Gas (I/C) Shri Dharmendra Pradhan calling for collaborative development and

creating a brighter future for the people of India and Africa.





Q. 46. On 24th January 2016, Union Cabinet has imposed President’s Rule in which of the following

states?

A. Meghalaya D. Assam C. Arunachal Pradesh D. Himachal Pradesh

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet

What: imposed President’s Rule in Arunachal Pradesh



The Union Cabinet on 24th January 2016 has imposed President’s Rule in Arunachal Pradesh.

About President’s Rule:

President's rule (Article 356 of the Constitution of India) is imposed on a state whose constitutional

machinery has failed. Under this rule, the State comes under the direct control of the central

government in other words it comes ‘under President's rule. Subsequently, executive authority is

exercised through the centrally appointed Governor, who has the authority to appoint retired civil

servants or other administrators, to assist him.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/cabinet-clears-presidents-rule-in-arunachal-

pradesh/article8147837.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/cabinet-clears-presidents-rule-in-arunachal-pradesh/article8147837.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/cabinet-clears-presidents-rule-in-arunachal-pradesh/article8147837.ece


Q. 47. Which of the following states has recently become first state in the country to get Mini Water

Supply Plant through solar plant?

A. Haryana B. Madhya Pradesh C. Maharashtra D. Jharkhand E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Maharashtra

What: first state to get Mini Water Supply Plant through solar plant



Maharashtra has recently become first state in the country to get Mini Water Supply Plant through solar

plant.

In order to alleviate the difficulties being faced by the local bodies in payment of hefty water supply

bills, the first Solar Power operated Mini Water Supply Plant in the state has been commissioned in

Hingna village of Mouda taluka in Nagpur district.

The Solar Pump Unit has been installed on experimental basis by Rite Water Solutions under the

supervision of the Zilla Parishad authorities.

http://huntnews.in/p/detail/2352a1e1d60f790f92d91f2175e1b804?uc_param_str=dnfrpfbivesscpgimib

tbmntnisieijblauputoggdnw&pos=1453640349576&channel=headline&chncat=english


http://huntnews.in/p/detail/2352a1e1d60f790f92d91f2175e1b804?uc_param_str=dnfrpfbivesscpgimibtbmntnisieijblauputoggdnw&pos=1453640349576&channel=headline&chncat=english

http://huntnews.in/p/detail/2352a1e1d60f790f92d91f2175e1b804?uc_param_str=dnfrpfbivesscpgimibtbmntnisieijblauputoggdnw&pos=1453640349576&channel=headline&chncat=english


Q. 48. Name the person who reached Manama on 23rd January 2016 for the first ministerial meeting of

the India Arab League Cooperation Forum?

A. Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj B. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi

C. Minister of Home Affairs, Raj Nath Singh D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj

What: reached Manama

Why: for the first ministerial meeting of the India Arab League Cooperation Forum

When: published on 23rd January 2016


Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj has reached Manama on 23rd January 2016 for the first

ministerial meeting of the India-Arab League Cooperation Forum to deepen the country's ties with the

22 member grouping amid tensions between regional heavyweights Saudi Arabia and Iran.

She is on a two-day visit to Manama; there she will also hold bilateral meetings with foreign ministers of

a number of Arab League countries, including her Bahraini counterpart Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa.

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-arrives-in-bahrain-for-first-india-arab-ministerial-

meet-1269239


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-arrives-in-bahrain-for-first-india-arab-ministerial-meet-1269239

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-arrives-in-bahrain-for-first-india-arab-ministerial-meet-1269239


Q. 49. Cabinet has recently approved raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions by J&K and LWE States.

What does LWE stand for?

A. Live Wing Extremism B. Left Wing Extremism C. Leading Wing Extremism

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Union Cabinet

What: approved raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions by J&K and LWE States



The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the raising of 17 India

Reserve Battalions (IR Bns) by Jammu & Kashmir and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected States. It

includes five IR Bns in the state of J&K, four IR Bns in Chhattisgarh, three IR Bns in Jharkhand, three IR

Bns in Odisha and two IR Bns in Maharashtra.

The major thrust in raising these 17 Bns is as follows:

1. Local youths will be recruited. To achieve this, the States will relax the age and educational criteria, if

required.

2. In respect of the 05 IR Bns to be raised by J&K, 60% of the vacancies will be filled from the border

districts of J&K for the posts of constables and class IV.

3. For LWE states, 75% of the vacancies of constables will be filled up from 27 core districts under

Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme.

About Left Wing Extremism (LWE) Division:

The Left Wing Extremist (LWE) Division was instituted on 19th October 2006. The Division implements

security related schemes aimed at capacity building in the LWE affected States. The Division also

monitors the LWE situation and counter-measures being taken by the affected States.

The Division coordinates the implementation of various development schemes of the

Ministries/Departments of Govt. of India in LWE affected States. The States of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand,

Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar

Pradesh are considered LWE affected, although in varying degrees.

http://wap.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/cabinet-approves-raising-of-17-

indian-reserve-battalions-by-j-k-116012700485_1.html


http://wap.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/cabinet-approves-raising-of-17-indian-reserve-battalions-by-j-k-116012700485_1.html

http://wap.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/cabinet-approves-raising-of-17-indian-reserve-battalions-by-j-k-116012700485_1.html


Q. 50. India has recently overtaken which of the following countries as the world's largest rice

exporter in 2015?

A. Malaysia B. Thailand C. Indonesia D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: India

What: has overtaken Thailand as the world's largest rice exporter in 2015



India has recently overtaken Thailand as the world's largest rice exporter in 2015, shipping 10.23 million

tones of rice in different countries.

According to the Rice Exporters Association Chairman Charoen Laodhammatas, Thailand exported 9.8

million tonnes of rice in 2015, down 10.8 per cent year on year. While India exported 10.23 million tones

of rice.

http://www.firstpost.com/business/india-overtakes-thailand-as-worlds-largest-rice-exporter-

2601768.html


http://www.firstpost.com/business/india-overtakes-thailand-as-worlds-largest-rice-exporter-2601768.html

http://www.firstpost.com/business/india-overtakes-thailand-as-worlds-largest-rice-exporter-2601768.html


Q. 51. Which of the following statements is/are true as the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs

has approved Hybrid Annuity Model for Implementing Highway Projects?

1. Under the Model the Government will invest 60 per cent of the construction cost for building

highways and the balance 40 per cent will come from the private developer.

2. Government’s investment will be based on the targeted completion of the road project in 5 equal

installments.

3. Under the Model the private developers will be able to recover his investment from the

government by receiving annuity payments over a period of 15 years.


E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs

What: has approved Hybrid Annuity Model

When: for Implementing Highway Projects



The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for the Hybrid Annuity Model as one

of the modes of delivery for implementing the Highway Projects to provide better connectivity and

attract investment.

The main object of the approval is to revive highway projects in the country by making one more mode

of delivery of highway projects.

Main features of Hybrid Annuity Model:

1. The government will provide 40 percent of the project cost to the developer to start work while the

remaining investment has to be made by the developer.

2. Government’s investment will be based on the targeted completion of the road project in 5 equal

installments.

3. The private developer will be able to recover his investment from the government by receiving

annuity payments over a period of 15 years.



4. There is a separate provision for operation and management payments by the government to the

concessionaire.

5. The highway toll tax will be collected by the government i.e. by the National Highways Authority of

India (NHAI) unlike in the build, operate and transfer (BOT) toll model in which the private sector

collects it.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/CCEA-Approves-Hybrid-Annuity-Model-for-Implementing-

Highway-Projects/2016/01/27/article3247862.ece


http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/CCEA-Approves-Hybrid-Annuity-Model-for-Implementing-Highway-Projects/2016/01/27/article3247862.ece

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/CCEA-Approves-Hybrid-Annuity-Model-for-Implementing-Highway-Projects/2016/01/27/article3247862.ece


Q. 52. India with which of the following banks has recently signed $80million loan agreement to

improve urban services in two North Eastern cities Agartala and Aizwal?

A. BRICS Development Bank B. Asian Development Bank C. World Bank

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: India and Asian Development Bank

What: signed $80million loan agreement

Why: to improve urban services in two North Eastern cities Agartala and Aizwal



India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have recently signed an $80-million loan agreement to

improve infrastructure in the two North-Eastern state capital cities of Agartala and Aizawl.

The loan is the third tranche of a $200-million financing facility under the North Eastern Region Capital

cities Development Investment Programme.

This will be used for investment in water supply, solid waste management and sanitation in Agartala and

Aizawl.

The loan will also support urban reforms, benefiting nearly a million people in the two cities.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB):

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank. It was established on 19th

December 1966 and is headquartered in the Ortigas Center of Mandaluyong, located in Metro Manila,

Philippines. Earlier it had 31 members at the time of establishment of the bank. Now at present it has 67

members, of which 48 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.

At the end of 2014, Japan holds the largest proportion of shares at 15.7%. The United States holds

15.6%, China holds 6.5%, India holds 6.4%, and Australia holds 5.8%.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/adb-to-extend-80mn-loan-for-improving-urban-

services-in-agartala-aizawl/article8162958.ece


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/adb-to-extend-80mn-loan-for-improving-urban-services-in-agartala-aizawl/article8162958.ece

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/adb-to-extend-80mn-loan-for-improving-urban-services-in-agartala-aizawl/article8162958.ece


Q. 52. Which of the following union territories India has recently launched MITRA app to help women

in distress?

A. Andaman and Nicobar Islands B. Dadra and Nagar Haveli C. Lakshadweep

D. Puducherry E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Puducherry

What: launched MITRA app to help women in distress



MITRA, a mobile application to ensure protection of women, children and the elderly in time of distress

has recently been launched by Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy.

The Mobile Initiated Tracking and Rescue application (MITRA) is meant to ensure protection and security

of women, children and aged persons during distress that will provide them the facility to contact police

for immediate help.

About Mobile Initiated Tracking and Rescue application (MITRA):

1. It is an android application to ensure women safety in times of distress.

2. It is like an SOS customized especially for the Puducherry region.

3. Under this application you can choose 3 friends/relatives to whom alert message should be sent

during emergency.

4. There is no need to open the app manually during emergency.

5. On long pressing the audio button, MITRA tracks your location through GPS and finds the nearest

police station from your current location and sends their Phone number to your three registered friends.

6. Your friends/relatives to whom alert message has been sent may contact the nearest police station

from the details given in the message.

http://www.ptinews.com/news/7030976_Mobile-application-to-help-women-in-distress.html


http://www.ptinews.com/news/7030976_Mobile-application-to-help-women-in-distress.html


International Affairs Q. 1. On 5th January 2016, Sri Lanka and which of the following counties have agreed to expand their

bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?

A. India B. Pakistan C. Bangladesh D. Myanmar E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Sri Lanka and Pakistan

What: have agreed to expand their bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA)


When: for the complete information kindly visit given link:

Sri Lanka and Pakistan have agreed on the inclusion of services and investment in the bilateral Free

Trade Agreement (FTA). This would help companies of the two nations to form joint ventures for exports

to other nations.

The FTA between Sri Lanka and Pakistan came into effect in June 2005. Since the Pakistan’s exports to

Sri Lanka were to the tune of 150 million dollars.

Sri Lanka’s exports to Pakistan were valued at about 52 million dollars, accounting for around 70 per

cent of the country’s total exports to Pakistan.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sri-lanka-pakistan-to-expand-fta/article8069418.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sri-lanka-pakistan-to-expand-fta/article8069418.ece


Q. 2. World's largest blue star sapphire has recently been discovered in which of the following

countries?

A. Sri Lanka B. Bangladesh C. India D. Myanmar

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: World's largest blue star sapphire, weighing 1404.49 carats

What: have been discovered

Where: in Sri Lanka



The world's largest blue star sapphire, weighing 1404.49 carats, has recently been discovered in Sri

Lanka. The sapphire has been valued at an astonishing $100 million.

The sapphire was found in the city of Ratnapura, in southern Sri Lanka, which is known as the 'City of

Gems'.

About Sapphire:

Sapphire is a typically blue gemstone variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminium oxide (α-Al2O3).

Trace amounts of elements such as iron, titanium, chromium, copper, or magnesium can give corundum

respectively blue, yellow, purple, orange, or green color. Chromium impurities in corundum yield pink or

red tint, the latter being called ruby.

A Star Sapphire is a type of sapphire that exhibits a star-like phenomenon known as asterism; red stones

are known as ‘star rubies’. Star sapphires contain intersecting needle-like inclusions following the

underlying crystal structure that causes the appearance of a six-rayed ‘star-shaped’ pattern when

viewed with a single overhead light source.



http://edition.cnn.com/2016/01/05/luxury/worlds-biggest-blue-star-sapphire/


http://edition.cnn.com/2016/01/05/luxury/worlds-biggest-blue-star-sapphire/


Q. 3. Which of the following US states has recently declared a state of emergency after methane gas

leak?

A. Texas B. California C. Florida D. Hawaii

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: US state California

What: a state of emergency

Why: after methane gas leak

Where: in Los Angeles



The US state of California has declared a state of emergency after methane gas leak in the city of Los

Angeles. The emergency was declared by California Governor Jerry Brown on 6th January 2016.

The gas leak happened at the Southern California Gas Company's Aliso Canyon storage field in Porter

Ranch of Los Angeles.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/state-emergency-california-toxic-gas-leak-

160108203124288.html


http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/state-emergency-california-toxic-gas-leak-160108203124288.html

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/01/state-emergency-california-toxic-gas-leak-160108203124288.html


Q. 4. Which of the following countries has recently been elected to the UNICEF Executive Board,

representing the group of Asia-Pacific countries for the term 2016-2018?

A. India B. Bangladesh C. Myanmar D. Nepal E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Nepal

What: elected to the UNICEF Executive Board



Nepal has been elected to the UNICEF Executive Board, representing the group of Asia-Pacific countries

for the term 2016-2018.

Nepal's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Durga Prasad Bhattarai has

also been unanimously elected as Vice-President to the Bureau of the Executive Board, according to

Nepal's Permanent Mission to the UN in New York.

Nepal will help ensure, among other things that UNICEF activities are responsive to the needs and

priorities of the recipient countries, particularly from the perspective of a country emerging from

conflict and reeling under the humanitarian crisis as a result of natural disasters and the vulnerabilities

of being least developed and land-locked country

About UNICEF Executive Board:

The Executive Board is the governing body of United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) which provides

intergovernmental support and oversight to the organization, in accordance with the overall policy

guidance of the United Nations General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council. The Board

comprises 36 members, representing the five regional groups of Member States at the United Nations.

Its work is coordinated by the Bureau, comprising the President and four Vice-Presidents, each officer

representing one of the five regional groups.

http://www.ibnlive.com/news/world/nepal-elected-as-unicefs-executive-board-member-1187625.html


http://www.ibnlive.com/news/world/nepal-elected-as-unicefs-executive-board-member-1187625.html


Q. 5. United States has recently lifted a wide range of nuclear sanctions against which of the following

countries?

A. Iran B. Pakistan C. Kuwait D. Iraq E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: United States

What: a wide range of nuclear sanctions against Iran



The United States has lifted most of its sanctions against Iran after it has met its commitments to roll

back its nuclear programme.

These sanctions were lifted after International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that Iran has met

its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) or Vienna agreement with P5+1

countries signed in July 2015.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3403039/US-lifts-sanctions-Iran-eight-years-historic-thaw-

atomic-agency-rules-met-conditions-nuclear-deal.html


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3403039/US-lifts-sanctions-Iran-eight-years-historic-thaw-atomic-agency-rules-met-conditions-nuclear-deal.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3403039/US-lifts-sanctions-Iran-eight-years-historic-thaw-atomic-agency-rules-met-conditions-nuclear-deal.html


Q. 6. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has recently been launched by which of the

following countries?

A. China B. Japan C. South Korea D. United States E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

What: launched by China



China has recently launched World Bank's rival Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank in Beijing.

The Bank was first proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in October 2013. Two years later, the bank

was formally set up with the Articles of Agreement taking effect on 25th December last year. It targets to

finance the construction of infrastructure projects, ranging from airports, mobile phone towers, railways

and roads in Asia.

About Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB):

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is an international financial institution baked by China

that aims to support the building of infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region. There are 57 member

countries out of which 37 are regional and 20 are non-regional Prospective Founding Members (PFM).

The Authorized Capital of the bank will be 100 billion US dollars. The initial subscribed capital will be

around 50 billion US Dollar and the paid-in ratio will be 20 per cent.

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/world-banks-rival-asian-infrastructure-investment-bank-launched-by-china-

100b-capital-1538463


http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/world-banks-rival-asian-infrastructure-investment-bank-launched-by-china-100b-capital-1538463

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/world-banks-rival-asian-infrastructure-investment-bank-launched-by-china-100b-capital-1538463


Q. 7. World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared end of Ebola outbreak in which part of

Africa?

A. South Africa B. East Africa C. West Africa D. North Africa

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: World Health Organization (WHO)

What: declared end of Ebola outbreak in West Africa



The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared end of Ebola outbreak in West Africa. In this regard,

the announcement of WHO came with declaration of end disease in West Africa after no positive case

was reported in last 42 days.

According to the resources, Liberia in West Africa was worst hit by this deadly outbreak which has killed

around 4809 people. It also had completely shattered its economy, health and education sectors.

About Ebola Outbreak:

Ebola Outbreak started from Guinea in December 2013. Later it spread in Liberia and Sierra Leone, with

minor outbreaks elsewhere. As of 14th January 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) and

respective governments have reported a total of 28,638 suspected cases and 11,315 deaths.

Ebola virus disease was first described in 1976 in two simultaneous outbreaks in South Sudan and

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-35308743


http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-35308743


Q. 8. Which of the following countries on 20th January 2016 has recently declared a state of Economic

and Social Emergency?

A. Canada B. South Korea C. France D. Jordan

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: President of France, Francois Hollande

What: declared a state of Economic and Social Emergency



President of France, Francois Hollande on 20th January 2016 has declared a state of Economic and Social

Emergency and outlined a £1.5 billion job creation plan to revive hiring and catch up with the global

economy.

In an annual speech to business leaders, Hollande highlighted a series of economic measures to boost

long-stagnant French growth and trim chronic unemployment. He also outlined measures involving the

creation of vocational training schemes, additional subsidies for small companies and a programme to

boost apprenticeships.

http://www.valuewalk.com/2016/01/france-economic-emergency


http://www.valuewalk.com/2016/01/france-economic-emergency


Q. 9. Which of the following countries has recently topped 2015 Human Development Index in South

Asian region?

A. India B. Bangladesh C. Pakistan D. Sri Lanka E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Sri Lanka

What: topped 2015 Human Development Index in South Asian region



Sri Lanka has recently topped 2015 Human Development Index in South Asian region.

In the 2015 Global Human Development Report (HDR) released by UN Development Programme (UNDP)

Sri Lanka was ranked 73rd with an HDI value of 0.757.

About Human Development Index:

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and income

per capita indicators, which are used to rank countries into four tiers of human development. A country

scores higher HDI when the life expectancy at birth is longer, the education period is longer and the

income per capita is higher.

It was developed by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq, often framed in terms of whether people are

able to ‘be’ and ‘do’ desirable things in their life and was published by the United Nations Development

Programme.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sri-lanka-tops-south-asia-in-human-

development/article8143217.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sri-lanka-tops-south-asia-in-human-development/article8143217.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sri-lanka-tops-south-asia-in-human-development/article8143217.ece


Economic Affairs Q. 1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently released the Report on which one of the following

Financial Inclusions that was submitted by 14 member committee headed by RBI Executive Director

Deepak Mohanty.

A. Minimum-term Path on Financial Inclusion B. Maximum-term Path on Financial Inclusion

C. Medium-term Path on Financial Inclusion D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

What: released the Report on Medium-term Path on Financial Inclusion



The Reserve Bank of India has recently released the Report on Medium-term Path on Financial Inclusion

that was submitted by 14 member committee headed by RBI Executive Director Deepak Mohanty.

The committee was constituted in July 2015 by RBI with the objective of working out a medium-term (5

years) measurable action plan for financial inclusion.

The Committee has made several key recommendations to improve the governance system, strengthen

the credit infrastructure and increase the personal disposable income of the poor which would put the

economy on a medium-term sustainable inclusion path.

Key recommendations of Deepak Mohanty Committee:

Sukanya Shiksha Scheme: Banks have to make special efforts to step up account opening for females,

and the Government may consider a deposit scheme for the girl child – Sukanya Shiksha – as a welfare

measure.

Aadhaar linked credit account: It recommended linking credit accounts with Aadhaar number and share

information with credit information companies to enhance stability of the credit system and improve

access.

Mobile Technology: Bank’s traditional business model should be changed with greater reliance on

mobile technology to improve ‘last mile’ service delivery.



Digitisation of land records: In order to increase formal credit supply to all agrarian segments backed by

an Aadhaar-linked mechanism for Credit Eligibility Certificates.

Promoting self-help groups: Corporates should be encouraged to nurture SHGs as part of their

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Subsidies: Panel has recommended replacing current agricultural input subsidies on fertilizers, irrigation

and power by a direct income transfer scheme as a part of second generation reforms.

Crop Insurance: A mandatory crop insurance scheme covering all crops should be introduced starting

with small and marginal farmers with a monetary ceiling of Rs 2 lakh.

Agricultural loan interest subvention scheme: The government can phase out the agricultural loan

interest subvention scheme and plough back that allocation into the crop insurance subsidy

Multiple guarantee agencies: Encouraged to provide credit guarantees in niche areas for micro and

small enterprises (MSEs).

Gold KCC (Kisan credit card): Higher flexibility for borrowers with prompt repayment records can be

dovetailed with a government-sponsored personal insurance, and digitisation of KCC to track

expenditure pattern.

State Level Bankers Committees (SLBCs): SLBCs are advised to focus more on inter-institutional issues,

livelihood models, social cash transfer, gender inclusion, Aadhaar seeding, universal account opening,

and less on credit deposit ratio which is a by-product.

Unique identification of MSME: It should be introduced for all MSME borrowers and information from it

should be shared with credit bureaus.

https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=35826


https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=35826


Q. 2. On 1st January 2016, which of the following banks has signed a Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU) with National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) for web-based monitoring of watershed projects?

A. State Bank of India (SBI) B. NABARD Bank C. The Reserve Banks of India

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

What: signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC)

Why: for web-based monitoring of watershed projects



On 1st January 2016, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has signed a

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) for web-based

monitoring of watershed projects.

The web-based monitoring of Indo-German Watershed Development (IGWDP) projects will happen in

three states, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Telangana.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/nabard-nrsc-sign-mou-for-web-

based-monitoring-of-watershed-projects/articleshow/50407111.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/nabard-nrsc-sign-mou-for-web-based-monitoring-of-watershed-projects/articleshow/50407111.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/nabard-nrsc-sign-mou-for-web-based-monitoring-of-watershed-projects/articleshow/50407111.cms


Q. 3. On 4th January 2016, the Reserve Bank of India has imposed a penalty of Rs. 1 crore on which of

the following SBI associate banks?

A. State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur B. State Bank of Hyderabad

C. State Bank of Travancore D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: the Reserve Bank of India

What: has imposed a penalty of Rs. 1 crore on State Bank of Travancore



Reserve Bank has imposed a penalty of Rs. 1 crore on State Bank of Travancore for violation of some of

its instructions.

The monetary penalty was imposed on State Bank of Travancore for violation of its instructions including

reporting of data to Central Repository of Information on Large Credits (CRILC).

RBI had issued a show cause notice to the bank for not having complied with the directions issued by the

bank on submission of accurate data to the CRILC.

About Central Repository of Information on Large Credits (CRILC):

Central Repository of Information on Large Credits (CRILC) was established by RBI to collect, store, and

disseminate data on all borrowers’ credit exposures. It is mandatory for banks to report all such

information under it including classification of an account as Special Mention Accounts (SMA) on all

borrowers having aggregate fund-based and non-fund-based exposure of 5 crore rupees and above.

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/rbi-imposes-rs-1-crore-fine-on-state-bank-of-

travancore/article8064602.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/rbi-imposes-rs-1-crore-fine-on-state-bank-of-travancore/article8064602.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/rbi-imposes-rs-1-crore-fine-on-state-bank-of-travancore/article8064602.ece


Q. 4. Which of the following banks recently has launched Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) for

money transfer?

A. Indian Bank B. Andhra Bank C. Dena Bank D. Allahabad Bank

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Andhra Bank

What: launched Immediate Payment Service (IMPS)

Why: for money transfer



Andhra Bank has recently launched Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) for money transfer at all its

branches in association with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

A multi-channel, multi-dimensional platform, IMPS makes payments possible within fraction of seconds

with all the standards and integrity maintained for security.

About Immediate Payment Service (IMPS):

Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) is one of the electronic funds transfer systems of India. It was

started in November 2010. IMPS is an instant 24X7 interbank electronic fund transfer service through

mobile phones. It is an emphatic tool to transfer money instantly within banks across India through

mobile, internet and ATM.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/andhra-bank-launches-imps/article8069068.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/andhra-bank-launches-imps/article8069068.ece


Q. 5. According to World Bank Report, what is expected growth rate of India in 2016?

A. 6.8 percent B. 7.8 percent C. 8.8 percent D. None these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: World Bank

What: released its report that India is expected to grow at 7.8 percent



The Global Economic Prospect report has recently been released by the World Bank (WB). The Indian

economy is projected to grow by a robust 7.8% this year and 7.9% in the next two years according to the

report.

India is expected to notch near 8% growth in the subsequent years as the world economy also picks up

pace to 2.9% growth in 2016 compared with a modest 2.4% in the just concluded year.

About World Bank:

The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans to developing countries for

capital programs. It comprises two institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and

Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). It is a component of the

World Bank Group, which is part of the United Nations system.

It’s official goal is to reduce poverty from developing countries. According to its Articles of Agreement,

all its decisions must be guided by a commitment to the promotion of foreign investment and

international trade and to the facilitation of Capital investment.

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-07/news/69590042_1_global-growth-7-8-

growth-world-bank-group


http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-07/news/69590042_1_global-growth-7-8-growth-world-bank-group

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-07/news/69590042_1_global-growth-7-8-growth-world-bank-group


Q. 6. Which of the following private sector banks will partner with FINO PayTech to foray into the

payments bank space?

A. HDFC Bank B. ICICI Bank C. Yes Bank D. Axis Bank

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: ICICI Bank and FINO PayTech

What: will be partner

Why: to foray into the payments bank space



India’s largest private sector lender ICICI Bank will partner with FINO PayTech to foray into the payments

bank space.

With this, ICICI Bank joins some of the leading lenders of the country which have partnered with

payments banks that have received licence from the banking regulator. For example, State Bank of India

and Kotak Mahindra Bank have picked up stake in the payments banks that will be floated by Reliance

Industries and the Bharti Group, respectively.

The ICICI Group, with about 16 per cent stake in FINO Paytech, a business correspondent, is the largest

domestic shareholder.

About FINO PayTech:

FINO PayTech Limited is an Indian financial inclusion solutions and services company that was formed in

2006. It is promoted by 24 Public and Private sector banks including the ICICI Bank, and insurance

companies like the Life Insurance Corporation of India, ICICI Lombard and ICICI Prudential. It is also

promoted by the International Finance Corporation in India.

The company offers technology IP (Intellectual Property) and services to enable financial Information.

The company serves its client companies through invention, innovation and implementation of

integrated biometric or smart card technology for institutions like banks, microfinance institutions,

government entities, insurance companies to enable financially inclusive environment for the micro

customers especially in rural areas.

About ICICI Bank:



Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI) Bank is an Indian multinational banking

and financial services company which is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, with its

registered office in Vadodara.

The Bank offers a wide range of banking products and financial services for corporate and retail

customers through a variety of delivery channels and specialised subsidiaries in the areas of investment

banking, life, non-life insurance, venture capital and asset management.

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/icici-bank-to-partner-fino-paytech-for-payments-

bank/article8078168.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/icici-bank-to-partner-fino-paytech-for-payments-bank/article8078168.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/icici-bank-to-partner-fino-paytech-for-payments-bank/article8078168.ece


Q. 7. Which of the following banks has recently launched its branch dedicated to serving startup

companies in Bengaluru?

A. SBI Bank B. PNB Bank C. Indian Bank D. Bank of India

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: State Bank of India

What: launched its branch dedicated to serving startup companies

Where: in Bengaluru



The India’s largest public sector bank, State Bank of India (SBI) has recently launched its first branch

dedicated to serving startup companies in Bengaluru.

The bank envisions that ‘SBI InCube’ branches will be a one stop shop for the financial service

requirements of startups in the country.

Though the bank is not focusing on helping startups with loans and other forms of capital assistance but

it will service their banking needs such as employee account maintenance and will assist them on

matters from setting up a company itself to the procedure for bringing in funds from foreign investors.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/finance/sbi-opens-first-dedicated-banking-branch-for-

startups-116011400431_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/finance/sbi-opens-first-dedicated-banking-branch-for-startups-116011400431_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/finance/sbi-opens-first-dedicated-banking-branch-for-startups-116011400431_1.html


Q. 8. Who has recently been elected to board of directors of China-backed Asian Infrastructure

Investment Bank (AIIB)?

A. Dinesh Sharma B. Swapnanil Barua C. Manish Thakur

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Dinesh Sharma

What: elected to board of directors of China-backed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)



India, one of the founding members of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), has been elected

to the board of directors of the China-sponsored AAIB, which is expected to begin loan approvals before

the end of this year.

Dinesh Sharma, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Finance has been elected to the 12-member of Board

of Directors.

About Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB):

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is an international financial institution that aims to

support the building of infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region. The bank was proposed as an initiative

by the government of China which is supported by 37 regional and 20 non-regional Prospective

Founding Members (PFM).

http://www.business-standard.com/article/international/india-elected-to-board-of-directors-of-aiib-

116011700473_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/international/india-elected-to-board-of-directors-of-aiib-116011700473_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/international/india-elected-to-board-of-directors-of-aiib-116011700473_1.html


Arts and Cultural Affairs Q. 1. Ardh Kumbh Mela has recently begun in which of the following places?

A. Ujjain B. Nashik C. Allahabad D. Haridwar

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Ardh Kumbh Mela

What: begun

Where: in Haridwar

When: published 1st January 2016


Rituals for Ardh Kumbh have started performing for the first time on the banks of the Ganga at Har-ki-

Pauri, Haridwar. These would be performed continuously till 22nd April 2016.

About Ardh Kumbh:

According to Hindu mythology, 'Ardh Kumbh Mela' takes place when the planet Jupiter enters Aquarius

and the Sun enters Aries. Kumbha (meaning pot) Mela (meaning fair) is considered a very sacred Hindu

pilgrimage. It takes place at the following four sacred places across India:

1. Allahabad (Uttar Pradesh) 2. Haridwar (Uttarakhand) 3. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

4. Nasik (Maharashtra)

http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/uttarakhand/ardh-kumbh-mela-rituals-begin/178256.html


http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/uttarakhand/ardh-kumbh-mela-rituals-begin/178256.html


Q. 2. International Kite Festival has recently been started in which of the following cities of India?

A. Ahmadabad B. Chennai C. Allahabad D. New Delhi

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: International Kite Festival

What: started

Where: in Ahmadabad



Chief Minister of Gujarat Anandiben Patel has recently inaugurated the 28th edition of International Kite

Festival in Ahmadabad.

The inaugural function, held at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmadabad, was attended by several dignitaries,

including Governor O.P. Kohli and Minister of State for Tourism Jayesh Radadiya.

About International Kite Festival:

The International Kite Festival (Uttarayan) is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Gujarat. Homes

in Gujarat starts making kites months before for the festival.

The festival of Uttarayan marks the day when winter begins to turn into summer, according to the

Indian calendar. It is the sign for farmers that the sun is back and that harvest season is approaching

which is called Makara Sankranti. This day is considered to be one of the most important harvest day in

India.

http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-gujarat-cm-anandiben-patel-inaugurates-international-kite-

festival-2016-2164167


http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-gujarat-cm-anandiben-patel-inaugurates-international-kite-festival-2016-2164167

http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-gujarat-cm-anandiben-patel-inaugurates-international-kite-festival-2016-2164167


Q. 3. Kullu Folk Dance has recently made its place in the Guinness book of world records. The folk

dance is performed in which of the following states?

A. Manipur B. Himachal Pradesh C. Arunachal Pradesh

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Kullu Folk Dance of Himachal Pradesh

What: made its place in the Guinness book of world records



The colourful Kullu folk dance (Nati), which showed participation of 20,000 dancers during Kullu

Dussehra festival on 26th October 2015, has made its place in the Guinness book of world records.

Similar folk dance was performed in 2014 also in which 8,600 dancers participated and it was recorded

in Limca book of World records.

The folk dance was launched by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh during Kullu Dasehra festival in 2014.

Since 2014, the dance is performed during the Dasehra fest every year, which depicted the tradition and

culture of the hill state.

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Kullu-Folk-Dance-Finds-Place-in-Guinness-Book-of-World-

Records/2016/01/11/article3222971.ece


http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Kullu-Folk-Dance-Finds-Place-in-Guinness-Book-of-World-Records/2016/01/11/article3222971.ece

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Kullu-Folk-Dance-Finds-Place-in-Guinness-Book-of-World-Records/2016/01/11/article3222971.ece


Q. 4. On 9th January 2016, which edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair has recently been started in

New Delhi?

A. 24th B. 25th C. 26th D. 27th E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: the 24th edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair

What: has been started

Where: in New Delhi



Human Resource Minister Smriti Irani on 9th January 2016 has inaugurated the 24th edition of the New

Delhi World Book Fair which commenced with China as the guest of honour country and a theme

presentation of the cultural heritage of India.

About the New Delhi World Book Fair:

New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) is being organized for the past 41 years whihc is now a major

calendar event in the publishing world. The Fair is organized by National Book Trust, India, an apex body

of the Government of India, under the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Last year fair was

scheduled from 14 to 22 February 2015 at the centrally located Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/24th-new-delhi-world-book-fair-opens-

116010900470_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/24th-new-delhi-world-book-fair-opens-116010900470_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/24th-new-delhi-world-book-fair-opens-116010900470_1.html


Business and Corporates Q. 1. Which of the following states has started the recognition of ‘e-Motor Insurance policies’ on 2nd

January 2016?

A. Tamil Nadu B. Karnataka C. Telangana D. Maharashtra

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Telangana Government

What: started the recognition of ‘e-Motor Insurance policies’



The Telangana government on 2nd January 2016 has started the recognition of 'e-Motor Insurance

policies' in the state, in collaboration with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India

and the Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB). The initiative was launched by the State's

Information Technology Minister KT Rama Rao.

The e-motor insurance policy would be issued in a digital format, which can be seen in any smartphone.

A Quick Response Code would also be issued, that can be scanned for verification of policy details.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/tech-news/Telangana-starts-recognition-of-e-Motor-

Insurance-policies/articleshow/50419576.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/tech-news/Telangana-starts-recognition-of-e-Motor-Insurance-policies/articleshow/50419576.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/tech-news/Telangana-starts-recognition-of-e-Motor-Insurance-policies/articleshow/50419576.cms


Q. 2. Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala has recently been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of which

company?

A. HCL B. Samsung C. Wipro D. LG E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala

What: appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wipro



Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala has recently been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Member

of the Board of Wipro. Apart from this the current CEO T.K. Kurien has been appointed as the Executive

Vice Chairman of the company. Prior to this appointment Neemuchwala was serving as the chief

operating officer (COO) of the company since April 2015.

About Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala:

Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala has rich experience in Business and Technology Operations, Process, and

Consulting and his portfolio includes Business Application Services, Global Infrastructure Services,

Business Process Servicesand Advanced Technology Solutions. Prior to joining Wipro, he had been

working with India’s largest IT exporter Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for 23 years. He joined TCS in

1992.

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/wipro-names-abid-ali-neemuchwala-as-

ceo/article8064911.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/wipro-names-abid-ali-neemuchwala-as-ceo/article8064911.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/wipro-names-abid-ali-neemuchwala-as-ceo/article8064911.ece


Q. 3. Which of the following firms has recently got Competition Commission of India’s nod to acquire

Goldman Sachs’ Indian fund arm?

A. Reliance Capital Asset Management B. SIDBI Venture Capital Limited

C. Ventureast Fund Advisors India Limited D. Nirvana Venture Advisors

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Reliance Capital Asset Management

What: got Competition Commission of India’s nod to acquire Goldman Sachs’ Indian fund arm



Reliance Capital Asset Management has recently got the Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) nod

for acquiring Goldman Sachs’s onshore business in India like mutual funds and exchange-traded funds.

Reliance Capital Asset Management has also applied to the Securities and Exchange Board of India for

approval of the acquisition.

About Competition Commission of India:

Competition Commission of India is a body of the Government of India responsible for enforcing The

Competition Act, 2002 throughout India and to prevent activities that have an adverse effect on

competition in India. It was established on 14th October 2003. It became fully functional in May 2009

with Dhanendra Kumar as its first Chairman.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/business/reliance-capital-gets-nod-to-acquire-

goldman-sachs-indian-fund-arm/article8071184.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/business/reliance-capital-gets-nod-to-acquire-goldman-sachs-indian-fund-arm/article8071184.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/business/reliance-capital-gets-nod-to-acquire-goldman-sachs-indian-fund-arm/article8071184.ece


Q. 4. Which of the following companies has recently acquired French telecom equipment Company,

Alcatel-Lucent?

A. Samsung B. Micromax C. Nokia D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Nokia

What: acquired French telecom equipment Company, Alcatel-Lucent



Nokia has recently acquired French telecom equipment company, Alcatel-Lucent in a deal worth nearly

15.6 billion euro (USD 17 billion).

About Nokia Corporation:

Nokia Corporation is Finland based multinational communications and information Technology

Company. It was founded 1865.

It is headquartered in Espoo, Uusimaa, in the greater Helsinki metropolitan area.

It is a public limited-liability company listed on the Helsinki Stock Exchange and New York Stock

Exchange.

It is the world's 274th-largest company measured by 2013 revenues according to the Fortune Global

500.

The company is a component of the Euro Stoxx 50 stock market index.

About Alcatel-Lucent:

Alcatel-Lucent is a French global telecommunications equipment company. It is headquartered in

Boulogne-Billancourt, France.

The company focuses on fixed, mobile, and converged networking hardware, IP technologies, software

and services, with operations in more than 130 countries.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer is Michel Combes and the Non Executive Chairman of the board is

Philippe Camus.

http://www.neowin.net/news/nokia-completes-156-billion-euro-acquisition-of-alcatel-lucent


http://www.neowin.net/news/nokia-completes-156-billion-euro-acquisition-of-alcatel-lucent


Q. 5. Which of the following telecom companies has recently launched 4G service with soft launch in

Chandigarh?

A. Airtel B. Idea C. BSNL D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: BSNL

What: launched 4G service with soft launch

When: in Chandigarh



Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has recently launched 4G service with soft launch in Chandigarh

promising broadband speed of up to 100 megabit per second (Mbps).

The company has 4G spectrum across India except in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka,

Tamil Nadu and Kolkata.

About 4G (Forth Generation):

4G (Fourth Generation) is the fourth generation of mobile telecommunications technology that has

succeeded 3G (Third Generation). A 4G system must provide capabilities defined by ITU in IMT

Advanced. Potential and current applications include amended mobile web access, IP telephony, gaming

services, high-definition mobile TV, video conferencing, 3D television, and cloud computing.

About Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited:

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is an Indian state-owned telecommunications company which is

headquartered in New Delhi, India. It was incorporated on 15th September 2000 and took over the

business of providing of telecom services and network management from the erstwhile Central

Government Departments of Telecom Services (DTS) and Telecom Operations (DTO).

It is India's oldest communication service provider and had a customer base of 93.29 million as of June

2015.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/bsnl-to-launch-4g-services-in-

chandigarh/articleshow/50557799.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/bsnl-to-launch-4g-services-in-chandigarh/articleshow/50557799.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/bsnl-to-launch-4g-services-in-chandigarh/articleshow/50557799.cms


Q. 6. Guenter Butschek has recently been appointed as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director

of which company?

A. Tata Motors B. Mahindra Motors C. Maruti Suzuki Motors

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Guenter Butschek

What: appointed as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Motors



Guenter Butschek has recently been appointed as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata

Motors.

He will lead all operations of Tata Motors in India and in International markets, including South Korea,

Thailand, Indonesia and South Africa.

About Guenter Butschek:

Guenter Butschek was Ex-Chief Operative Officer and a member of the group executive committee of

Airbus Group SA. Prior to Airbus, he worked at Daimler AG for more than 25 years in international

automotive management, leading functions like production, industrialization and procurement. His last

role at the German automobile company was as president and CEO of Beijing Benz Automotive Co. Ltd.,

a joint venture between Daimler and Beijing Automotive Industrial Holding in Beijing, China.



http://www.livemint.com/Companies/szNlmv0FZFaD788F9makeL/Tata-Motors-appoints-Guenter-

Butschek-as-MD-and-CEO.html


http://www.livemint.com/Companies/szNlmv0FZFaD788F9makeL/Tata-Motors-appoints-Guenter-Butschek-as-MD-and-CEO.html

http://www.livemint.com/Companies/szNlmv0FZFaD788F9makeL/Tata-Motors-appoints-Guenter-Butschek-as-MD-and-CEO.html


Science and Technology Q. 1. Which one among the following has recently claimed to have successfully produced a cloned

buffalo?

A. CIRB B. NITIE C. AIIMS D. CGCRI E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (CIRB)

What: is second institute to clone a buffalo in the country



Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes has become second in the country to have successfully

produced a cloned buffalo offspring ‘Cirb Gaurav’.

This cloned buffalo calf is distinct from the earlier clones produced in India. As this is produced from

cells of ventral side of tail of superior bull buffalo, this part is least exposed to sunlight and may have

less mutation rate and can be good choice for isolation of donor cells to produce healthy clones.

About Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes:

The Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (CIRB) was established in 1985 in Hisar, Haryana. The

Institute has approved cadre strength of 40 scientists of which 34 scientists are in position, including at

the sub-campus.

The sub-campus was established in December 1987 at Bir Dosanjh, Nabha, District Patiala with the

transfer of Nili- Ravi Buffalo Farm from the Punjab State Government.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/hisar-institute-becomes-second-centre-to-

clone-buffalo/article8090443.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/hisar-institute-becomes-second-centre-to-clone-buffalo/article8090443.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/hisar-institute-becomes-second-centre-to-clone-buffalo/article8090443.ece


Q. 2. Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) Ltd has recently launched a new service for algorithm trading test

environment in partnership with which of the following companies?

A. Symphony Fintech Solutions Pvt Ltd B. PNB Finance & Industries Ltd

C. Nicco Uco Alliance Credit Ltd D. Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)

What: launched a new service for algorithm trading test environment in partnership with Symphony

Fintech Solutions Pvt Ltd



BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange) Ltd has recently launched a new service for algorithm trading test

environment in partnership with Symphony Fintech Solutions Pvt Ltd.

The service will enable all market participants to test their trading algorithms in equity, equity

derivatives and currency derivatives segments free of cost.

About Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE):

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) is an Indian stock exchange located at Dalal Street, Kala Ghoda,

Mumbai, in Maharashtra. It was established in 1875. It is Asia’s first stock exchange and the world's

fastest stock exchange with a median trade speed of 6 microseconds. It is the world's 11th largest stock

exchange with an overall market capitalization of $1.7 trillion as of January 23rd, 2015. More than 5500

companies are publicly listed on the BSE.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/bse-launches-algo-trading-test-

facility/articleshow/50626605.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/bse-launches-algo-trading-test-facility/articleshow/50626605.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/bse-launches-algo-trading-test-facility/articleshow/50626605.cms


Q. 3. Which of the following combinations is true?

A. Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS - 1E) - PSLV-C31

B. Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS - 1D) - PSLV-C30

C. Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS - 1C) - PSLV-C24

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

What: successfully launched India’s fifth navigation Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS

- 1E) satellite on board of PSLV-C31

Where: from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), SHAR, Sriharikota



On 20th January 2016, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched India’s

fifth navigation Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS - 1E) satellite on board of PSLV-C31

from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), SHAR, Sriharikota.

About Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS - 1E):

The Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS - 1E) is the fifth out of seven in the Indian

Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) series of satellites after IRNSS-1A, IRNSS-1B, IRNSS-1C and

IRNSS-1D. The satellite is one among the seven of the IRNSS constellation of satellites launched to

provide navigational services to the region. The satellite was placed in geosynchronous orbit.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/pslvc31-launches-fifth-satellite-from-sriharikota/article8128155.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/pslvc31-launches-fifth-satellite-from-sriharikota/article8128155.ece


Q. 4. Which of the following countries has recently developed new bio-artificial liver based on human

cells?

A. Japan B. America C. China D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Scientists of China

What: developed new bio-artificial liver based on human cells



Scientists in China have developed a new bio-artificial liver that can help patients with liver failure

survive long enough for an organ transplant.

The new device known as bio-artificial liver is based on cells taken from human skin, fat or other tissues

and reprogrammed into the liver cells. The device has been designed to be attached outside a patient's

body. It was also revealed that the device using human cells is safer and less likely to cause a rejection

reaction. Earlier, scientists and researchers in China have been using such devices based on liver cells

from pigs, quoted one of the professors from the team.

http://www.china.org.cn/china/2016-01/17/content_37594547.htm


http://www.china.org.cn/china/2016-01/17/content_37594547.htm


Q. 5. Jason-3, a United States-European oceanography satellite was recently launched using which of

the following carrier rockets?

A. Atlas V 541 B. Falcon-9 C. Ariane 5G+ D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Jason-3 oceanography satellite

What: launched



Jason-3, a United States-European oceanography satellite mission with NASA participation that will

continue a nearly quarter-century record of tracking global sea level rise, lifted off from Vandenberg Air

Force Base in California aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

Jason-3 is an international mission led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

in partnership with NASA, the French space agency CNES and the European Organization for the

Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites.

The mission will improve weather, climate and ocean forecasts, including helping NOAA's National

Weather Service and other global weather and environmental forecast agencies more accurately

forecast the strength of tropical cyclones.

About Falcon-9:

Falcon 9 is a two stage rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX, an American aerospace

manufacturer and space transport services company for the reliable and safe transport of satellites and

the Dragon spacecraft into orbit.

Falcon 9’s simple two-stage configuration minimizes the number of separation events and with nine

first-stage engines, it can safely complete its mission even in the event of an engine shutdown.

http://www.space.com/31649-spacex-rocket-landing-jason3-satellite-launch.html


http://www.space.com/31649-spacex-rocket-landing-jason3-satellite-launch.html


Awards | Rewards | Prizes Q. 1. According to the BCCI Annual Awards 2014-15, which of the following persons will be presented

Polly Umrigar Award, given to the cricketer of the year?

A. Virat Kohali B. Mahendra Singh Dhoni C. Suresh Raina D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Virat Kohali

What: will be given Polly Umrigar Award



According to the BCCI Annual Awards 2014-15, India’s Test captain Virat Kohli will be presented Polly

Umrigar Award, given to the cricketer of the year, at the Annual BCCI Awards Ceremony in Mumbai on

5th January 2016.

Complete list of the awardees:

C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award: Syed Mujtaba Hussain Kirmani.

Polly Umrigar Award: Virat Kohli.

Lala Amarnath Award for Best all-rounder in Ranji Trophy: Jalaj Saxena (Madhya Pradesh).

Lala Amarnath Award for Best all-rounder in Domestic Limited-Overs Competitions: Deepak Hooda

(Baroda).

Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Scorer in Ranji Trophy: Robin Uthappa (Karnataka).

Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Wicket-Taker in Ranji Trophy: R Vinaykumar (Karnataka).

Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Wicket-Taker in Ranji Trophy: Shardul Thakur (Mumbai).

A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-23 Cricketer: Almas Shaukat (Uttar Pradesh).

A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-19 Cricketer: Anmolpreet Singh (Punjab).

A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-16 Cricketer: Shubman Gill (Punjab).

A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Woman Cricketer (Sr): Mithali Raj (Indian Railways).



A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Woman Cricketer (Jr): Devika Vaidya (Maharashtra).

Best Umpire In Domestic Cricket: O Nandan

Best Overall Performance: Karnataka State Cricket Association.

http://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/bcci-annual-awards-announced-virat-kohli-mithali-raj-wins-

cricketers-year


http://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/bcci-annual-awards-announced-virat-kohli-mithali-raj-wins-cricketers-year

http://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/bcci-annual-awards-announced-virat-kohli-mithali-raj-wins-cricketers-year


Q. 2. Which of the following persons has recently been awarded with the prestigious 2015 Sangita

Kalanidhi award?

A. Sikkil Gurucharan B. Abhishek Raghuram C. Sanjay Subrahmanyan

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Sanjay Subrahmanyan

What: awarded with the prestigious 2015 Sangita Kalanidhi award



Carnatic vocalist Sanjay Subrahmanyam has been awarded with the prestigious 2015 Sangita Kalanidhi

award for his outstanding achievements in Carnatic music. He was bestowed with the prestigious award

by the renowned Mathematician, Manjul Bhargava at 89th annual conference of the Madras Music

Academy in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

About Sanjay Subrahmanyan:

Sanjay Subrahmanyan is a Carnatic vocalist from India. He has performed widely in India and overseas.

He has been the subject to a documentary film on his life, titled 'Aaraar aasaippadaar'. He has

performed in Chennai as well as in Mumbai, Calcutta, Bangalore, Delhi and other places in India. He has

toured Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, US, Canada, UK, Switzerland and Oman.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/sanjay-subrahmanyam-sangita-kalanidhi-

award/1/560603.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/sanjay-subrahmanyam-sangita-kalanidhi-award/1/560603.html

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/sanjay-subrahmanyam-sangita-kalanidhi-award/1/560603.html


Q. 3. Who has recently been awarded with the Central Banker of the Year Award for 2016?

A. Arvind Subraman B. Duvvuri Subbarao C. Raghuram Rajan

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Raghuram Rajan

What: awarded with the Central Banker of the Year Award for 2016



Governor of Reserve Bank of India, Raghuram Rajan has been felicitated with the Central Banker of the

Year Award for 2016 by the Financial Times Group's monthly publication 'The Banker'.

The Central Banker of the Year 2016 Awards celebrates the officials that have best managed to stimulate

growth and stabilize their country's economy.

About Rahguram Rajan:

Raghuram Govind Rajan is the present and the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. He took

charge of India's central banking institution on 5th September 2013 who succeeded Duvvuri Subbarao.

Prior to this, he was Chief Economic Adviser to India's Ministry of Finance during the previous year. He

was also Chief Economist at the International Monetary Fund from 2003 to 2007. He is on leave of

absence as a professor of finance at the graduate business school at the University of Chicago.

http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/banks/raghuram-rajan-conferred-central-banker-award-by-ft-

arm/story/227919.html


http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/banks/raghuram-rajan-conferred-central-banker-award-by-ft-arm/story/227919.html

http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/banks/raghuram-rajan-conferred-central-banker-award-by-ft-arm/story/227919.html


Q. 4. Who has recently been awarded with the Harikrishna Devsare Baalsahitya Award 2015?

A. Balkrishna Garg B. Anoop Kumar Srivastava C. Kuljit Singh Kropha

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Balkrishna Garg

What: awarded with the Harikrishna Devsare Baalsahitya Award 2015



Veteran poet Balkrishna Garg has recently been awarded with the second Harikrishna Devsare

Baalsahitya Award 2015 for his collection of poems for children, titled BaalGeet.

The Award was conferred to him Sahitya Akademi President Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari and National

Book Trust Chairman Baldeo Bhai Sharma which was comprising a cash prize of Rs 75,000, a shawl and a

citation on him.

About HariKrishna Devsare:

HariKrishna Devsare was a Hindi writer. He is known for his work in the field of children's literature. He

received the first Vatsalya Award, instituted by Padma Binani Foundation, for his contribution to

children's literature. His vision was to modern literature with scientific outlook for children that would

not only fuel their imagination and creativity but would also prepare them to face the challenges of

future.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/author-balkrishna-garg-awarded-h-k-devsare-baalsahitya-

award/1/566052.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/author-balkrishna-garg-awarded-h-k-devsare-baalsahitya-award/1/566052.html

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/author-balkrishna-garg-awarded-h-k-devsare-baalsahitya-award/1/566052.html


Q. 5. Who has recently won the Ballon d'Or award for the world's best player?

A. Cristiano Ronaldo B. Ronaldinho C. Neymar D. Lionel Messi

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Lionel Messi

What: won the Ballon d'Or award for the world's best player



Lionel Messi has recently won the Ballon d'Or award for the world's best player after defeating Cristiano

Ronaldo and Neymar.

About Lionel Messi:

Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona

and the Argentina national team. Most of the time, he has been considered the best player in the world.

He is the only football player in history to win the FIFA Ballon d'Or five times, four of which he won

consecutively, and the first player to win three European Golden Shoes. With Barcelona he has won

seven La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles, as well as three Copa del Rey titles. He also

holds the Guinness World Records titles for most goals scored in La Liga (295), a La Liga season (50), a

calendar year (91), a Champions League match (five), and most Champions League seasons (five).



About Ballon d'Or Award:

The FIFA Ballon d'Or is an annual association football award given by FIFA to the male player considered

to have performed the best in the previous calendar year. It is awarded based on the votes from

national team coaches and captains, as well as journalists from around the world. It was started in 2010

after the men's FIFA World Player of the Year award. The winner of the inaugural 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or

was Lionel Messi.

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/35285469


http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/35285469


Q. 6 Who has recently won the Costa Novel Prize for ‘A God in Ruins’?

A. Janice Galloway B. Annie Bell C. Kate Atkinson D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Kate Atkinson

What: won the Costa Novel Prize

Why: for her book ‘A God in Ruins’



Kate Atkinson has won the Costa Novel Prize for the second time in three years for ‘A God in Ruins’. First

time, she won the prize for the companion novel to ‘Life After Life’, in 2013.

About Kate Atkinson:

Kate Atkinson is an English writer. Her first book was ‘Behind the Scenes at the Museum’ that won the

1995 Whitbread Book of the Year ahead of Salman Rushdie's ‘The Moor's Last Sigh’ and Roy Jenkins's

biography of ‘William Ewart Gladstone’.

Her work is often celebrated for its wit, wisdom and subtle characterization, and the surprising twists

and plot turns.



About Costa Book Awards:

The Costa Book Awards are a set of annual literary awards recognizing English-language books by

writers based in Britain and Ireland. They were inaugurated for 1971 publications and known as the

Whitbread Book Awards until 2006 when Costa Coffee, a subsidiary of Whitbread, took over

sponsorship. The companion Costa Short Story Award was established in 2012.

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35227592


http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35227592


Q. 7. Who has recently been awarded with Best Actor in a Motion Picture at the 73rd Golden Globe

Awards?

A. Leonardo DiCaprio B. Sylvester Stallone C. Jon Hamm D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Leonardo DiCaprio

What: Best Actor in a Motion Picture at the 73rd Golden Globe Awards


For the complete information kindly go through the given lines:

Leonardo DiCaprio has recently been awarded with Best Actor in a Motion Picture at the 73rd Golden

Globe Awards. The Award Ceremony was organized at Beverly Hills, California, United States (US).

Leonardo DiCaprio:

The list of the winners of various awards:

Best Motion Picture Drama: ‘The Revenant’.

Best Motion Picture Musical/Comedy: ‘The Martian’.

Best Director in Motion Picture-Drama: Alejandro Inarritu for ‘The Revenant’.

Best Actor in Motion Picture-Drama: Leonardo DiCaprio for ‘The Revenant’.

Best Actress in Motion Picture-Drama: Brie Larson for ‘Room’.

Best Actor in Motion Picture or Musical or Comedy: Matt Damon for ‘The Martian’.



Best Actress in Motion Picture Musical or Comedy: Jennifer Lawrence for ‘Joy’.

Best Actor in a Supporting role in Motion Picture: Sylvester Stallone for ‘Creed’.

Best Actress in a Supporting role in Motion Picture: Kate Winslet for Steve Jobs.

Best Original Score Motion Picture: Ennio Morricone for ‘The Hateful Eight’.

Best Foreign Language Film: Son of Saul (Hungary).

About Golden Globe Award:

The Golden Globe Award is an American accolade bestowed by the 93 members of the Hollywood

Foreign Press Association (HFPA) recognizing excellence in film and television, both domestic and

foreign. The 73rd Annual Golden Globe Awards ceremony was organized at Beverly Hills, California,

United States (US).



Q. 8. Which of the following organizations has recently won National Award on e-Governance 2015-

16?

A. Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)

B. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

C. Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)

D. National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSEID)

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)

What: won National Award on e-Governance 2015-16

Why: for launching the Universal Account Number



The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has won the National Award on e-Governance

2015-16 for launching the Universal Account Number (UAN).

The Organization has won the gold award in the ‘innovative use of technology in e-governance’ category

and the retirement body will get a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.

The award will be presented by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions to the EPFO in

the 19th National Conference on e-governance to be held in Nagpur on 22nd January 2016.

About Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO):

The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) is a statutory body of the Government of India

under the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The organization administers a compulsory contributory

Provident Fund Scheme, Pension Scheme and an Insurance Scheme. The schemes cover Indian workers

as well as International workers (for countries with which bilateral agreements have been signed. It is

one of the largest social security organizations in India in terms of the number of covered beneficiaries

and the volume of financial transactions undertaken.

Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit number allotted to employee who is contributing to EPF

will be generated for each of the PF member by EPFO.



About National e-Governance Plan:

The National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) is an initiative of the Government of India to make all

government services available to the citizens of India via electronic media.

The Plan was created by the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) and

Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/epfo-bags-national-award-on-

egovernance/article8098318.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/epfo-bags-national-award-on-egovernance/article8098318.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/epfo-bags-national-award-on-egovernance/article8098318.ece


Q. 9. Which of the following actors has recently won the Best Actor Award at 61st Filmfare Awards

2015?

A. Shahrukh Khan B. Ranveer Singh C. Amitabh Bachchan D. Anil Kapoor

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Ranveer Singh

What: won the Best Actor Award at 61st Filmfare Awards 2015



The Grand Annual 61st Britannia Filmfare Awards event was organized in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Bajirao

Mastani with 8 awards was the film wining highest number of awards. Ranveer Singh was awarded with

Best Actor Award at the event.

Complete list of winners at the event:

RD Burman Award: Armaan Mallik

Best Actor: Ranveer Singh for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Actress: Deepika Padukone for 'Piku'

Best Film: 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Lifetime Achievement: Moushumi Chatterjee

Best Debut Director: Neeraj Ghaywan for 'Massan'

Best Debutant (Male): Sooraj Pancholi for 'Hero'

Best Debutant (Female): Bhumi Pednekar for 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha'

Critics Award for Best Film: Piku

Critics Award for Best Actor (Male): Amitabh Bachchan for 'Piku'

Best Actor Female Critics Choice (Female): Kangana Ranaut for 'Tanu Weds Manu Returns'

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male): Anil Kapoor for 'Dil Dhadakne Do'



Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female): Priyanka Chopra for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Story: V Vijayendra Prasad for 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan'

Best Music: Ankit Tiwari, Meet Bros. Anjjan and Amaal Mallik for 'Roy'

Best Lyrics: Irshad Kamil - 'Agar tum saath ho' (Tamasha)

Best Playback Singer (Male): Arijit Singh for 'Sooraj dooba' (Roy)

Best Playback Singer (Female): Shreya Ghoshal for 'Deewani mastani' (Bajirao Mastani)

Best VFX: Prana Studios for 'Bombay Velvet'

Best Dialogue: Himanshu Sharma for 'Tanu Weds Manu Returns'

Best Action: Sham Kaushal for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Cinematography: Manu Anand for 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha'

Best Choreography: Pt Birju Maharaj for 'Mohe rang de laal' from 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Background Score: Anupam Roy for 'Piku'

Best Sound Design: Shajith Koyeri for 'Talvar' Best Screenplay: Juhi Chaturvedi for 'Piku'

Best Production Design: Sujeet Sawant, Sriram Iyengar and Saloni Dhatrak for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Costume Designer: Anju Modi and Maxima for 'Bajirao Mastani'

Best Editing: A Sreekar Prasad for 'Talvar'

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/61st-Britannia-Filmfare-

Awards-The-complete-list-of-

winners/articleshow/50598103.cms?slideshow=50592904&slide=50614269#6


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/61st-Britannia-Filmfare-Awards-The-complete-list-of-winners/articleshow/50598103.cms?slideshow=50592904&slide=50614269#6




Q. 10. Who has recently won the 2016 DSC prize for south Asian literature?

A. Anuradha Roy B. Neelam Saxena Chandra C. Vidya Subramaniam

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Anuradha Roy

What: won the 2016 DSC prize for south Asian literature



Anuradha Roy has recently won the 2016 DSC prize for south Asian literature. Worth $50,000, the DSC

prize goes to the best work in South Asian fiction writing, and is open to any author who has based their

work on the region and its people.

About Anuradha Roy:

Anuradha Roy is an ndian novelist, journalist and editor. Her first novel, ‘An Atlas of Impossible Longing’

has been translated into fifteen languages across the world. It was named by World Literature Today as

one of the ‘60 Essential English Language Works of Modern Indian Literature’.

About DSC Prize for South Asian Literature:

The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature is a literary prize awarded annually to writers of any ethnicity

or nationality writing about South Asia themes such as culture, politics, history, or people. It is for an



original full-length novel written in English, or translated into English. The award is for novels published

in the year preceding the judging of the prize. The winner receives ₹2,800,000 (about US$50,000). The

prize was instituted by DSC Limited, an Indian infrastructure and construction company which also

sponsored the Jaipur Literature Festival.

http://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/jan/18/anuradha-roy-wins-2016-dsc-prize-for-south-asian-

literature


http://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/jan/18/anuradha-roy-wins-2016-dsc-prize-for-south-asian-literature

http://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/jan/18/anuradha-roy-wins-2016-dsc-prize-for-south-asian-literature


Q. 11. Who has recently won the Technical Achievement Award at Oscar for his contribution to

cinema through ‘Groundbreaking Design’?

A. Yeshi Tsering B. Kamal Mittal C. Rahul Thakkar D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Rahul Thakkar

What: won the Technical Achievement Award at Oscar

Why: for his contribution to cinema through ‘Groundbreaking Design’

When: Published on 20th January 2016


Like every year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present 10 scientific and technical

achievements during its annual Scientific and Technical Awards Presentation on 13th February 2016.

Where, Rahul Thakkar will be presented with the Technical Achievement Award for his contribution to

cinema through 'groundbreaking design'.

Rahul Thakkar:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/lifestyle/rahul-thakkar-wins-an-oscar-for-his-contribution-to-

cinema/articleshow/50650537.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/lifestyle/rahul-thakkar-wins-an-oscar-for-his-contribution-to-cinema/articleshow/50650537.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/lifestyle/rahul-thakkar-wins-an-oscar-for-his-contribution-to-cinema/articleshow/50650537.cms


Q. 12. Which of the following states has recently won the Krishi Karman Award for 2014-15?

A. Haryana B. Uttar Pradesh C. Madhya Pradesh D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Madhya Pradesh

What: won the Krishi Karman Award for 2014-15



Despite seeing crop failure in parts of the state for the fourth consecutive season and witnessing a slew

of farmers’ suicides, Madhya Pradesh has recently won the Krishi Karman Award for 2014-15. The state

has won the Award for the fourth consecutive year.

About Krishi Karman Award:

Krishi Karman Award was instituted in the year 2010-11 to reward the best performing States in

foodgrains and individual crops of Rice, Wheat, Pulses and Coarse Cereals.

Krishi Karman Awards comprises of three awards for total food grain production and four awards for

production of rice, wheat, coarse cereals and pulses - the crops that constitute the food grain.

http://www.news18.com/news/madhya-pradesh/madhya-pradesh-shortlisted-for-coveted-krishi-

karman-award-amid-rising-farmer-suicides-863585.html


http://www.news18.com/news/madhya-pradesh/madhya-pradesh-shortlisted-for-coveted-krishi-karman-award-amid-rising-farmer-suicides-863585.html

http://www.news18.com/news/madhya-pradesh/madhya-pradesh-shortlisted-for-coveted-krishi-karman-award-amid-rising-farmer-suicides-863585.html


Q. 13. Among the following persons which person has not been given Australia’s highest civilian

honour?

A. Chennupati Jagadish B. Jay Chandra C. Sajeev Koshy D. Anup Kumar Thakur

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Chennupati Jagadish, Jay Chandra and Sajeev Koshy

What: were given Australia’s highest civilian honour

Why: for their contribution in the fields of physics, engineering and medicine



Three Indian origin persons have been awarded Australia’s highest civilian honour for their contribution

in the fields of physics, engineering and medicine.

Chennupati Jagadish, an eminent professor at Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Jay

Chandra, an eye doctor in New South Wales and Sajeev Koshy, a dentist in Melbourne were given the

medal of the Order of Australia for the year 2016 on the Australia Day.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/australias-highest-civilian-award-for-3-

pios/article8158341.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/australias-highest-civilian-award-for-3-pios/article8158341.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/australias-highest-civilian-award-for-3-pios/article8158341.ece


Q. 14. Which of the following actresses has recently been awarded with the 2016 Padma Shri Award?

A. Aishwarya Rai B. Priyanka Chopra C. Deepika Padukone D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Priyanka Chopra

What: awarded with the 2016 Padma Shri Award



Priyanka Chopra, one of the leading actresses in Bollywood has been awarded with a Padma Shri on

Republic Day.

Here is the full list of those awarded with the Padma Shri in 2016:

Ajay Devgn

Bhikhudan Gadhvi

Shri Sribhas Chandra Supakar

Prathibha Prahlad

Priyanka Chopra

Tulsidas Borkar

Soma Ghosh

Nila Madhab Panda

S.S. Rajamouli

Madhur Bhandarkar

M. Venkatesh Kumar

Barjinder Singh Hamdard

Gulabi Sapera

Mamta Chandrakar

Malini Awasthi



Jai Prakash Lekhiwal

K. Laxma Goud

Bhalchandra Dattatray Mondhe

Naresh Chander Lal

Dhirendra Nath Bezbaruah

Prahlad Chandra Tasa

Ravindra Nagar

Dahyabhai Shastri

Santeshivara Bhyrappa

Haldar Nag

Kameshwaram Brahma

Prof. Pushpesh Pant

Jawaharlal Kaul

Ashok Malik

Mannam Gopi Chand

Ravi Kant

Ram Harsh Singh

Shiv Narain Kureel

Dr. Sabya Sachi Sarkar

Dr. Alla Gopala Krishna Gokhale

T.K. Lahiri

Praveen Chandra

Daljeet Singh Gambhir

Dr. Chandrasekar Shesadri Thoguluva

Anil Kumari Malhotra



M.V. Padma Srivastava

Sudhir V. Shah

M. M. Joshi

John Ebnezar

Dr. Nayudamma Yarlagadda

Simon Oraon

Imitiaz Qureshi

Piyush Pandey

Subhash Palekar

Ravinder Kumar Sinha

H.R. Nagendra

M. C. Mehta

M. N. Krishna Mani

Ujjwal Nikam

Tokheho Sema

Satish Kumar

Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai

Dipankar Chatterji

Ganapati Dadasaheb Yadav

Veena Tandon

Onkar Nath Srivastava

Sunita Krishnan

Ajoy Kumar Dutta

M. Pandit Dasa

P. P. Gopinathan Nair



Madeleine Herman de Blic

Srinivasan Damal Kandalai

Sudhakar Olwe

T.V. Narayana

Arunachalam Murugantham

Deepika Kumari

Sushil Doshi

Mahesh Sharma

Saurabh Srivastava

Dilip Sanghvi

Dr. Keki Hormusji Gharda

http://www.desiblitz.com/content/priyanka-chopra-awarded-padma-shri-honour


http://www.desiblitz.com/content/priyanka-chopra-awarded-padma-shri-honour


Q. 15. Who is the writer of the book ‘Midnight’s Furies’ that has won the 2016 William E. Colby

Award?

A. Nisid Hajari B. Shambhu Kallolikar C. Kannegi Packianathan

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Nisid Hajari

What: won the 2016 William E Colby Award

Why: for his book ‘Midnight s Furies’



Nisid Hajari has recently won the 2016 William E. Colby Award for his book, “Midnight’s Furies: The

Deadly Legacy of India’s Partition.”

“Midnight’s Furies” covers the 1947 partition of India and the violence that surrounded that event.

The book has been named one of the best books of 2015 by NPR, Quartz, the Daily Beast, the Seattle

Times and Amazon.

Nisid Hajari:



About William E. Colby Award:

The William E. Colby Award for military writers was established in 1999 by the William E. Colby Military

Writers' Symposium at Norwich University in Vermont in order to recognize ‘a first work of fiction or

non-fiction that has made a major contribution to the understanding of intelligence operations, military

history, or international affairs.’ It is named in honor of William Egan Colby. The prize money of the

award is USD 5,000.

https://www.google.co.in/#q=Nisid+Hajari+wins+2016+Colby+Award+for+Best+Military+Book


https://www.google.co.in/#q=Nisid+Hajari+wins+2016+Colby+Award+for+Best+Military+Book


Q. 16. Which one of the following persons has recently been selected for Social Justice Award?

A. Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar

B. Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav

C. Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar

What: selected for Social Justice Award



Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar has been selected by US-based Periyar International for the 'K.

Veeramani Social Justice Award' that is instituted by non-resident followers of Dalit icon Periyar EV

Ramasami.

About K. Veeramani:

K. Veeramani is the Chancellor of Periyar Maniammai University. He is the President of the Dravidar

Kazhagam, an Indian organization centered in Tamil Nadu, opposed to the caste system and dedicated

to the welfare of socially disadvantaged. He is the third President of the Dravidar Kazhagam and

Chancellor of Periyar Maniammai University.



http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-to-be-conferred-with-social-justice-

award-1271556


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-to-be-conferred-with-social-justice-award-1271556

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-to-be-conferred-with-social-justice-award-1271556


Q. 17. Who has recently been honoured with V Shantaram Award as MIFF 2016?

A. Naresh Bedi B. Jayant Narlikar C. Barun Bhuyan D. Sanjay Goyal

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Naresh Bedi

What: honoured with V Shantaram Award as MIFF 2016



Veteran wildlife filmmaker Naresh Bedi has recently been honoured with the V Shantaram Lifetime

Achievement Award as the 14th edition of the Mumbai International Festival for Documentary, Short

and Animation Films.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, comprising a trophy, shawl and a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, is instituted

in memory of legendary film maker V Shantaram, who was head of the Films Division in the past.

About Naresh Bedi:

Naresh Bedi is an Indian Wildlife photographer and filmmaker. He is the first Asian to receive a

Wildscreen Panda Award and the first Indian to receive a nomination for the British Academy Film

Awards. He was honoured by the Government of India in 2015 with Padma Shri, the fourth highest

Indian civilian award.



http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/28/00036655/naresh-bedi-honoured-v-shantaram-award-miff-2016-

gets-underway


http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/28/00036655/naresh-bedi-honoured-v-shantaram-award-miff-2016-gets-underway

http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/28/00036655/naresh-bedi-honoured-v-shantaram-award-miff-2016-gets-underway


Person in News Q. 1. Which of the following persons from Indian origin has recently been knighted by Queen Elizabeth

II in United Kingdom?

A. Harpal Singh Kumar B. Anjuly Chib Duggal C. Navreet Singh Kang

D. Karan Bir Singh Sidhu E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Harpal Singh Kumar

What: was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in United Kingdom



Harpal Singh Kumar has been knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his ‘influential’ work in the annual New

Year’s Honours list that includes several other Indian-origin individuals.

About Harpal Singh Kumar:

Harpal Singh Kumar is chief executive officer of Cancer Research UK. He had founded Nexan Group, a

venture capital-backed medical devices company in 1997. Later he had joined Cancer Research

Technology Limited (CRTL) as chief executive in 2002 and was promoted as COO of Cancer Research UK

in 2004. He became chief executive officer in April 2007.

He is a trustee of the Francis Crick Institute and the Institute for Cancer Research, and chairman of the

Board of the National Cancer Research Institute. He is also chairman of the Cancer Outcomes Strategy

Advisory Group in England and co-chair of the National Awareness and Early Diagnosis Initiative.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/indian-origin-cancer-expert-harpal-singh-kumar-knighted-by-

the-queen/story-SUogxQFMhM3KDabCf3bdqM.html


http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/indian-origin-cancer-expert-harpal-singh-kumar-knighted-by-the-queen/story-SUogxQFMhM3KDabCf3bdqM.html

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/indian-origin-cancer-expert-harpal-singh-kumar-knighted-by-the-queen/story-SUogxQFMhM3KDabCf3bdqM.html


Q. 2. Laxmi Ratan Shukla has recently announced his retirement from which of the following sports?

A. Tennis B. Cricket C. Badminton D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Laxmi Ratan Shukla

What: announced his retirement from all form of cricket



Laxmi Ratan Shukla, former Indian cricketer and Bengal all-rounder, on 30th December 2015 has

announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

About Laxmi Ratan Shukla:

Laxmi Ratan Shukla is a former Indian cricketer. He is a right-handed middle-order batsman and a right-

arm medium-pace bowler. He represented Bengal cricket team. He was also a player in the IPL team

Delhi Daredevils. He caught attention in the Ranji Trophy in the 1997-98 seasons, and rose to

prominence for performing well for the Indian under-19s team in the MTN Youth World Cup in South

Africa.

http://www.indiatvnews.com/sports/cricket/laxmi-ratan-shukla-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-

of-cricket-18799.html


http://www.indiatvnews.com/sports/cricket/laxmi-ratan-shukla-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-18799.html

http://www.indiatvnews.com/sports/cricket/laxmi-ratan-shukla-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-18799.html


Q. 3. Who has recently been named as the Tournament Director of 2016 Hockey India League?

A. Bjorn Isberg B. Muthukumar Balakrisnan C. Craig Gribble

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Bjorn Isberg

What: will be the Tournament Director of 2016 Hockey India League


Bjorn Isberg from Sweden will be the tournament director of the fourth edition of the Hockey India

League (HIL) that will be held across six venues in India from 18th January to 21st February.

Six franchises in the tournament are Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Delhi Waveriders, Kalinga Lancers, Uttar

Pradesh Wizards, Dabang Mumbai and defending champions Ranchi Rays.

According to the 2016 HIL tournament, Andy Mair from Scotland has been appointed as the umpire's

manager while Muthukumar Balakrisnan from Malaysia will be the assistant tournament director.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/Isberg-named-2016-HIL-tournament-

director/articleshow/50380153.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/Isberg-named-2016-HIL-tournament-director/articleshow/50380153.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/Isberg-named-2016-HIL-tournament-director/articleshow/50380153.cms


Q. 4. Who has recently been appointed as Director General of National Centre for Good Governance

(NCGG)?

A. Penuel B. O. Warjri B. Gyanendra D. Bandgaiyan C. Balvanta K. Dev Varma

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Gyanendra D. Bandgaiyan

What: new Director General of National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG)



Economist Gyanendra D. Bandgaiyan has recently been appointed as the new Director General of

National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG).

About Gyanendra D. Bandgaiyan:

Gyanendra D. Bandgaiyan is a former IAS officer of the Union Territories cadre, hails from Madhya

Pradesh. He is ex-chief economist of the United Nations Development Programme.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/gyanendra-bandgaiyan-to-head-good-governance-think-

tank/article8045756.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/gyanendra-bandgaiyan-to-head-good-governance-think-tank/article8045756.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/gyanendra-bandgaiyan-to-head-good-governance-think-tank/article8045756.ece


Q. 5. Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan has recently passed away. He was political leader of which party?

A. Communist Party of India (CPI) B. Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP)

C. Samajwadi Party (SP) D. Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP)

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI), Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan

What: passed away



Veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI), Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan, passed away in New

Delhi. He was 91 years of age. He is survived by son Ashok Bardhan, a professor at Berkeley University,

and daughter Alka Barua, a retired doctor.

About Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan:

Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan was the former general secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI),

one of the oldest political parties in India. He embraced Communism at the age of 15 after he moved to

Nagpur.He joined the All India Students Federation at the Nagpur University in 1940. He joined the

Communist Party of India (CPI) in same year.

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/veteran-cpi-leader-a-b-bardhan-passes-away/


http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/veteran-cpi-leader-a-b-bardhan-passes-away/


Q. 6. Which of the following persons has recently been appointed as Secretary General of

International Sericultural Commission (ISC)?

A. H Nagesh Prabhu B. Anup Kumar Thakur C. Balvanta K. Dev Varma

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: A. H Nagesh Prabhu

What: Secretary General of International Sericultural Commission (ISC)



H Nagesh Prabhu, Member Secretary and CEO of Central Silk Board under Ministry of Textiles, has been

appointed as Secretary General of International Sericultural Commission (ISC) on 1st January 2016. He

will replace Ishita Roy, who completed her three-year term.

H Nagesh Prabhu:

About International Sericultural Commission (ISC):

International Sericultural Commission (ISC) was instituted on 8th August 1960. It is the only inter-

governmental organisation engaged in the development of sericulture and silk industry in the world. At

present is headquartered in Bengaluru. Prior to this it was headquartered at Lyon, France.



http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/garments-/-textiles/h-nagesh-prabhu-

assumes-charge-as-secretary-general-of-international-sericultural-

commission/articleshow/50405647.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/garments-/-textiles/h-nagesh-prabhu-assumes-charge-as-secretary-general-of-international-sericultural-commission/articleshow/50405647.cms




Q. 7. L M Kahute has recently been appointed as the Director General of Police of which state?

A. Tamil Nadu B. Manipur C. Jharkhand D. Bihar

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: L M Kahute

What: appointed as the Director General of Police of Manipur

When: published in 1st January 2015


L M Kahute, a 1985 batch IPS officer has recently been appointed as the new Director General of Police

by Manipur Government. He will replace Shahid Ahmed on this post. S Ibocha Singh has been promoted

to the rank of Inspector General of Police (IGP).

L M Kahute:

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/khaute-appointed-manipur-dgp-

116010100622_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/khaute-appointed-manipur-dgp-116010100622_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/khaute-appointed-manipur-dgp-116010100622_1.html


Q. 8. Which of the following persons has recently been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director

of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL)?

A. Kapil Dev Tripathi B. Atul Sobti C. Subhash Chandra Das

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Atul Sobti

What: appointed as Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL)



Atul Sobti has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director of state owned power equipment

maker Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL).

Prior to this, Sobti was Director on the Board of BHEL, heading two crucial portfolios of Power and

Finance.

About Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL):

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is completely owned by the Government of India. It is a power

plant equipment manufacturer and operates as engineering and manufacturing company based in New

Delhi, India. It was established in 1964.

BHEL is India's largest engineering and manufacturing company of its kind. The company has been

earning profits continuously since 1971-72 and paying dividends uninterruptedly since 1976-77.

http://www.dnaindia.com/money/report-atul-sobti-assumes-charge-as-cmd-of-bhel-2161255


http://www.dnaindia.com/money/report-atul-sobti-assumes-charge-as-cmd-of-bhel-2161255


Q. 9. Name the person who passed away recently, was director of ‘Close Encounters of the Third

Kind.’

A. Robert Altman B. Vilmos Zsigmond C. Mark Rydell

D. Michael Cimino E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Vilmos Zsigmond

What: passed away



The Film Director Vilmos Zsigmond, who was best known for his work on ‘The Deer Hunter’ and ‘Close

Encounters of the Third Kind’ passed away. He was 85 years of age.

About Vilmos Zsigmond:

Vilmos Zsigmond was a Hungarian-American cinematographer. He is the winner of an Oscar for his

achievements on ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’ and a nominee for ‘The Deer Hunter,’ ‘The River’

(1984) and ‘The Black Dahlia’ (2006). He won BAFTA Award for Best Cinematography in 1978 for ‘The

Deer Hunter.’

http://variety.com/2016/film/news/vilmos-zsigmond-dead-dies-cinematographer-1201670799/


http://variety.com/2016/film/news/vilmos-zsigmond-dead-dies-cinematographer-1201670799/


Q. 10. Who has recently been appointed as the 8th Chief Information Commissioner (CIC)?

A. R.K. Mathur B. H. M. Cairae C. Penuel B. O. Warjri D. T. Y. Das

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: R.K. Mathur

What: appointed as the 8th Chief Information Commissioner (CIC)



R.K. Mathur was recently sworn in as the 8th Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) by President Pranab

Mukherjee at a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. On this post, he will be serving for three years,

till he attains the age of 65 years.

About R. K. Mathur:

R. K. Mathur is a 1977 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of a 1977 batch Indian

Administrative Service (IAS) officer. He had served as Defence Secretary for two years. He also had

served as Secretary Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Defence

Production and Supplies. He has also served as Principal Secretary in the Agriculture, Rural Development

and Finance Departments of the Government of Tripura. He also held the position of Chief Secretary of

Tripura.



About Central Information Commission (CIC):

The Central Information Commission (CIC) was set up under the Right to Information Act. It is the

authorized body under the Government of India to act upon complaints from those individuals who

have not been able to submit information requests to a Central Public Information Officer or State Public

Information Officer due to either the officer not having been appointed, or because the respective

Central Assistant Public Information Officer or State Assistant Public Information Officer refused to

receive the application for information under the RTI Act. It was established in 2005. The President of

India, Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the 8th Annual Convention of Central Information Commission

(CIC) on 2nd September 2013.

http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/04/00036290/mukherjee-administers-oath-office-r-k-mathur-chief-

information-commissioner


http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/04/00036290/mukherjee-administers-oath-office-r-k-mathur-chief-information-commissioner

http://netindian.in/news/2016/01/04/00036290/mukherjee-administers-oath-office-r-k-mathur-chief-information-commissioner


Q. 11. Who has recently been appointed as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees?

A. Filippo Grandi B. Michael Ballack C. Toumani Diabate D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Filippo Grandi

What: appointed as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees



Filippo Grandi, a UN official, has recently been appointed as United Nations High Commissioner for

Refugees on 1st Janury 2016. He will succeed Antonio Guterres whose more than 10 years in office

ended last week.

About Filippo Grandi:

Filippo Grandi is an Italian diplomat mainly active with the United Nations' humanitarian operations.

Between 2010 and 2014, he served as Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works

Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). He has also served as its Deputy

Commissioner-General since 2005.

He started his career in the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in

1988. He has served in a variety of countries, including Sudan, Syria, Turkey, and Iraq after the first Gulf

War. He also headed a number of emergency operations including in Kenya, Benin, Ghana, Liberia, the

Great Lakes Region of Central Africa, Yemen and Afghanistan.



About Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees:

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a United Nations agency

mandated to protect and support refugees at the request of a government or the UN itself and assists in

their voluntary repatriation, local integration or resettlement to a third country. Its headquarters are in

Geneva, Switzerland and is a member of the United Nations Development Group. The UNHCR has won

two Nobel Peace Prizes, once in 1954 and again in 1981.

http://www.unhcr.org/568a3dff6.html


http://www.unhcr.org/568a3dff6.html


Q. 12. Who has recently been appointed as Chairperson of General Motors (GM) Board of Directors?

A. Ginni Rometty B. Mary Barra C. Phebe Novakovic D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Mary Barra

What: appointed as Chairperson of General Motors (GM) Board of Directors



Mary Barra has recently been appointed as Chairperson of General Motors (GM) Board of Directors. She

will succeed Theodore Solso, who will continue serving as the Board's Lead Independent Director.

About Mary Barra:

Mary Barra is the Chief Executive Officer of the General Motors Company. She has held the position

since January 15, 2014, and she is the first female CEO of a major global automaker. On 10th December

2013, General Motors named her to succeed Dan Akerson as Chief Executive Officer, and prior to that,

she has served as the Executive Vice President of Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply

Chain at General Motors.

http://www.ibtimes.co.in/mary-barra-elected-chairman-gm-board-directors-662038


http://www.ibtimes.co.in/mary-barra-elected-chairman-gm-board-directors-662038


Q. 13. Name the person who was Ex Chief Justice of India, passed away recently.

A. Jitesh Khosla B. Sarosh Homi Kapadia C. Balvanta K. Dev Varma

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember:

Who: Sarosh Homi Kapadia

What: passed away



Former Chief Justice of India, Sarosh Homi Kapadia passed away recently. He was 68 years of age. He is

survived by his wife, a son and daughter. He delivered some landmark rulings, like in the Vodafone case

and the quashing of the appointment of Chief Vigilance Commissioner P J Thomas during the UPA

regime.

About Sarosh Homi Kapadia:

Sarosh Homi Kapadia was the thirty-eighth Chief Justice of India. He started his career as a clerk in a city

law firm. He later became a lawyer, and was appointed additional judge of the high court on 8th October

1991. He was appointed as a permanent judge on 23rd March 1993. On 18th December 2003 he was

appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court. On 12th May 2010 he was sworn in as the Chief Justice of

India by the then President Pratibha Patil.

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ex-chief-justice-of-india-sarosh-homi-kapadia-

dies/


http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ex-chief-justice-of-india-sarosh-homi-kapadia-dies/

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ex-chief-justice-of-india-sarosh-homi-kapadia-dies/


Q. 14. Name the person who was Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, passed away recently.

A. Farooq Abdullah B. Mufti Mohammad Sayeed C. Omar Abdullah

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Mufti Mohammad Sayeed

What: passed away



Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed passed away recently after battling a

respiratory infection for two weeks at at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. He took

charge as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir for the second time last March after entering into an

unlikely alliance with the BJP.

About Mufti Mohammad Sayeed:

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was a politician from the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. He served twice

as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir for three years from November 2002 till November 2005

and then again for almost ten months from March 2015 until his death in January 2016. He had also

served as Home Minister of India from December 1989 to November 1990. He founded the Jammu and

Kashmir People's Democratic Party, in July 1999 to ‘persuade the Government of India to initiate an

unconditional dialogue with Kashmiris for resolution of the Kashmir problem.’

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/mufti-mohammad-sayeed-dies-jammu-and-

kashmir/


http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/mufti-mohammad-sayeed-dies-jammu-and-kashmir/

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/mufti-mohammad-sayeed-dies-jammu-and-kashmir/


Q. 15. Name the person who is Co-founder and CEO of FreeCharge, has recently been appointed as

chairman of Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI)?

A. Kunal Shah B. Bhaskar Mushahary C. Rajiv Yadav D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Kunal Shah

What: appointed as chairman of Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI)



Co-founder and CEO of FreeCharge, Kunal Shah has recently been appointed as chairman of Internet and

Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).

About Kunal Shah:

Kunal Shah is an Indian entrepreneur, founder and CEO of FreeCharge. He founded FreeCharge in 2010

along with Sandeep Tandon. In April 2015, FreeCharge was acquired by Snapdeal for an estimated

amount of $400 million. He was appointed as the new CEO of the company. He also led the acquisitions

of Wishberg and Preburn in 2014.

About Internet and Mobile Association of India:

Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) is a not-for-profit industry body registered under the

Societies Act, 1986. Its mandate is to expand and enhance the online and mobile value added services

sectors.

It also put forward the problems and requirements of the businesses to the consumers, shareholders,

investors and the government of India. The main purpose of the Internet and Mobile Association of India

is to improve and expand the value added services pertaining to mobiles and several online services.



http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/news/freecharge-ceo-kunal-shah-appointed-iamai-chairman-786243


http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/news/freecharge-ceo-kunal-shah-appointed-iamai-chairman-786243


Q. 16. Who has recently been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vedanta’s metals division

in India?

A. Prashant Naik B. Davinder Kumar C. Samir Cairae

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Samir Cairae

What: appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vedanta’s metals division in India



Vedanta Limited has recently appointed Samir Cairae as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Diversified

Metals (India). He will report to Tom Albanese who is CEO of Vedanta Resources Plc and will be a

member of Vedanta Executive Committee team.

He will provide operational and strategic leadership for the performance of Vedanta Limited’s

Aluminium, India Copper, Power, Iron Ore divisions in addition to Commercial and Asset optimization

functions.

About Samir Cairae:

Samir Cairae is an electrical engineer from IIT-Kanpur and has a Masters in Management from the HEC

School of Management, Paris.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/samir-cairae-is-ceo-of-vedanta-s-metals-division-

116010600745_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/samir-cairae-is-ceo-of-vedanta-s-metals-division-116010600745_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/samir-cairae-is-ceo-of-vedanta-s-metals-division-116010600745_1.html


Q. 17. Who has recently been appointed as Technical Advisor to Odisha Government?

A. Verghese Kurien B. Sam Pitroda C. Motilal Vora D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Sam Pitroda

What: appointed as Technical Advisor to Odisha Government



Renowned telecom engineer and inventor Sam Pitroda has recently been appointed Technical Advisor to

the Odisha Government. He will have a key role in Vision 2036 for Odisha@100.

He will also help provide the essential technological blueprint to write the IT story of Odisha.

About Sam Pitroda:

Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda popularly known as Sam Pitroda is a telecom engineer, inventor,

entrepreneur and policymaker. He was born in Titilagarh, Odisha, India. In 1964, he traveled to Chicago

to study electrical engineering. He is a director of the Young Indian Company co-owned by Sonia Gandhi

and Rahul Gandhi. He is founder of the National Innovation Council which was founded in 2010. He has

also served as the Advisor to the Prime Minister with rank of a cabinet minister on Public Information

Infrastructure and Innovation, to help democratize information.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/sam-pitroda-appointed-technical-advisor-to-

odisha-government/article8074369.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/sam-pitroda-appointed-technical-advisor-to-odisha-government/article8074369.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/sam-pitroda-appointed-technical-advisor-to-odisha-government/article8074369.ece


Q. 18. Name the person who was a Blues Hall of Fame musician, passed away recently.

A. Otis Clay B. Jerry Harrison C. Carla Thomas D. Dorothy Norwood

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Otis Clay

What: passed away



Otis Clay who was a Blues Hall of Fame musician passed away recently at age of 73. He died due to heart

attack.

He was preparing upcoming U.S. and European tours and had been nominated for two Blues Music

Awards one for his album with Billy Price and one for soul blues music artist.

About Otis Clay:

Otis Clay was an American Rhythm & Blues and soul singer, who started in gospel music. In 2013, Clay

was inducted to the Blues Hall of Fame. After singing with local gospel group, the Voices of Hope, he

returned to Mississippi to sing with the Christian Travelers, before settling in Chicago in 1957. His

recording debut came in 1965 with the rousing ballad, ‘Flame in Your Heart.’ Four decades later, in 2007,

he was nominated for a Grammy for the gospel CD, ‘Walk a Mile in My Shoes.’

http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/rhythm-and-blues-singer-otis-clay-dies-at-

73/article8086782.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/rhythm-and-blues-singer-otis-clay-dies-at-73/article8086782.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/rhythm-and-blues-singer-otis-clay-dies-at-73/article8086782.ece


Q. 19. Which of the following person has recently been appointed as the Chairman of the Competition

Commission of India (CCI)?

A. Devender Kumar Sikri B. Vinod Kumar Pipersenia C. Bhaskar Mushahary

D. Suresh Chandra Panda D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Devender Kumar Sikri

What: the Chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI)



Devender Kumar Sikri has recently been appointed as the Chairman of the Competition Commission of

India (CCI). He will succeed Ashok Chawla, who superannuated on 7th January 2016.

He will be at the helm of Competition Commission of India (CCI), which keeps a tab on unfair business

practices in the market place across sectors, till attaining the age of 65 years.

About Devender Kumar Sikri:

Devender Kumar Sikri is a former Gujarat cadre IAS officer. He superannuated as Department of Justice

Secretary in July 2013. He had held various positions at the Centre as well as in his cadre state of

Gujarat. He is a seasoned bureaucrat.

About Competition Commission of India:

Competition Commission of India is a body of the Government of India responsible for enforcing the

Competition Act, 2002 throughout India and to prevent activities that have an adverse effect on

competition in India. It was established on 14th October 2003. It became fully functional in May 2009

with Dhanendra Kumar as its first Chairman.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/devender-kumar-sikri-to-take-oath-as-cci-

chairman/articleshow/50531957.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/devender-kumar-sikri-to-take-oath-as-cci-chairman/articleshow/50531957.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/devender-kumar-sikri-to-take-oath-as-cci-chairman/articleshow/50531957.cms


Q. 20. Who has recently been appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?

A. Urjit Patel B. Jitesh Khosla C. Vinay Sheel Oberoi D. Bhaskar Mushahary

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Urjit Patel

What: appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)



Urjit Patel who earlier in charge of the Monetary Policy Department, has been reappointed as the

Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He will complete his three year term on 10th January

2019 and could become the longest serving deputy governor in recent times if he serves the full three-

year term. Most of recent deputy governors served a maximum of five years.

About Urjit Patel:

Urjit Patel is an eminent economist, consultant and banker. He was also Advisor of the Boston

Consulting Group. As Deputy Governor of RBI, Dr Patel looks after Monetary Policy, Economic Policy

Research, Statistics and Information Management, Deposit Insurance, Communication and Right to

Information.

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/rbi-dy-governor-patel-gets-second-

term/article8082770.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/rbi-dy-governor-patel-gets-second-term/article8082770.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/rbi-dy-governor-patel-gets-second-term/article8082770.ece


Q. 21. Name the person who has recently been appointed as Vice President for finance of Micromax?

A. Anurag Goel B. Vikas Thapar C. Bhalang Dhar D. Tanington Dkhar

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Vikas Thapar

What: Vice President for finance of Micromax



Vikas Thapar has recently been appointed as Vice President for finance of Micromax, smartphone

vendor. He will be tasked with building the company's asset and revenue base while leading external

relationship developments with all key partners including bankers, equity partners, investors and with

the government.

About Micromax:

Micromax is an Indian consumer electronics company which is headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana. The

company was established as an IT software company operating in the embedded devices domain. Later,

it entered the mobile handset business. it was one of the largest domestic companies making handsets

in the low-cost feature phone segment in India by 2010. As of Q3 2014, Micromax is the tenth largest

smartphone vendor in the world.

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-06/news/69564195_1_equity-partners-

syndication-asset


http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-06/news/69564195_1_equity-partners-syndication-asset

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-06/news/69564195_1_equity-partners-syndication-asset


Q. 22. Name the person who was world’s first female F1 driver, passed away recently?

A. Maria Teresa de Filippis B. Lella Lombardi C. Giovanna Amati

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Maria Teresa de Filippis

What: passed away



Maria Teresa de Filippis, World’s first female F1 diver passed away recently at the age of 89.

About Maria Teresa de Filippis:

Maria Teresa de Filippis was an Italian racing driver, and World’s first woman to race in Formula One.

She participated in five World Championship Grands Prix. Though largely unsuccessful in her Formula

One racing career, she won races in other series and is remembered as a pioneer in the sport. She was

one of a handful of women who have tried to qualify for world championship Formula 1 races. She

debuted on 18th May 1958.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/sports/autoracing/maria-teresa-de-filippis-pioneer-of-auto-

racing-dies-at-89.html?_r=0


http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/sports/autoracing/maria-teresa-de-filippis-pioneer-of-auto-racing-dies-at-89.html?_r=0

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/sports/autoracing/maria-teresa-de-filippis-pioneer-of-auto-racing-dies-at-89.html?_r=0


Q. 23. Name the person who was former Governor of Sikkim, passed away recently.

A. Ventrapragada Rama Rao B. Sankar Prasad Nandi C. Preetom Kumar Saikia

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Ventrapragada Rama Rao

What: passed away



Former Sikkim Governor and senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ventrapragada Rama Rao passed away

recently due brief illness. He was 81 years of age. He is survived by wife and son.

About Ventrapragada Rama Rao:

Ventrapragada Rama Rao was appointed Governor of Sikkim in 2002 and served till 2007. He started his

political career in 1956 when he joined Jana Sangh and went on to become a National Leader of

Bharatiya Janata Party. Then he was elected to Andhra Pradesh State Legislative Council from

Hyderabad Graduates’ Constituency for four consecutive times in 1966, 1972, 1978 and 1984.

http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-former-sikkim-governor-v-rama-rao-passes-away-2167164


http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-former-sikkim-governor-v-rama-rao-passes-away-2167164


Q. 24. Name the person who was ‘Space Oddity’ song, passed away recently?

A. David Bowie B. Bruno Mars C. Justin Timberlake D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: David Bowie

What: passed away due to cancer



David Robert Jones, known as David Bowie had passed away recently due to cancer at the age of 69.

About David Bowie:

David Bowie was an English singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, painter, and

actor. His career was marked by reinvention, musical innovation and visual presentation, and his music

and stagecraft. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. ‘Space Oddity’ song

became his first top five entries on the UK Singles Chart after its release in July 1969.

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/david-bowie-dead-legendary-artist-854364


http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/david-bowie-dead-legendary-artist-854364


Q. 25. Aroon Tikekar passed away recently, he was a/an

A. Architecture B. Music Director C. Journalist D. Economist

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Senior Journalist, Aroon Tikekar

What: passed away



Senior journalist Aroon Tikekar passed away recently due to breathing-related complications. He was 72

years of age. He was the reference chief of the Times of India and a senior assistant editor for

Maharashtra Times.

About Aroon Tikekar:

Aroon Tikekar is an Indian scholar and authority on Mumbai, as well as a journalist. He has written over

20 books. He has been the Language and Literature Expert and Acquisitions Specialist at the US Library

of Congress Office in New Delhi. He was appointed editor of the Marathi newspaper Loksatta, published

by the Indian Express Group, and held that position from 1991 to 2002.



http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/journalist-aroon-tikekar-passes-away-

116011900379_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/journalist-aroon-tikekar-passes-away-116011900379_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/journalist-aroon-tikekar-passes-away-116011900379_1.html


Q. 26. Tsai Ing-wen has recently been elected first female president of which nations?

A. Taiwan B. South Korea C. North Korea D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Tsai Ing-wen

What: elected first female president of Taiwan



Tsai Ing-wen has been elected Taiwan's first female president. She leads the Democratic Progressive

Party (DPP) that wants independence from China.

About Tsai Ing-wen:

Tsai Ing-wen is the first female to be the president of Taiwan. She will become the second female head

of state in East Asia after current President of South Korea Park Geun-hye. She is the incumbent

chairwoman of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). She was also the party's presidential candidate

in 2012 and 2016. She previously served as party chair from 2008 to 2012.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35333647


http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35333647


Q. 27. Name the person who was director of 1974’s film ‘Kora Kagaz’, passed away recently.

A. Sachin Bhowmick B. Anil Ganguly C. Dinesh Hingoo D. Deven Verma

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Anil Ganguly

What: passed away



Noted director and screenwriter Anil Ganguly passed away after a brief illness. He was 82 years of age.

He is well known for Jaya Bhaduri starrer film ‘Kora Kagaz’ and ‘Tapasya’ both of which won National

Award.

About Anil Ganguly:

Anil Ganguly was a noted Indian film director and screenwriter, who worked in Hindi cinema from 1970s

to the 1990s. He is best known for Jaya Bhaduri starrer film Kora Kagaz in 1974 and Tapasya in 1975,

both of which won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

His other noted film was Anil Kapoor and Amrita Singh starrer Saaheb in 1985. Later he made several

actions films with Mithun Chakraborty and Akshay Kumar.

http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-rupali-ganguly-s-father-filmmaker-anil-ganguly-passes-

away-at-82-2166241


http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-rupali-ganguly-s-father-filmmaker-anil-ganguly-passes-away-at-82-2166241

http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-rupali-ganguly-s-father-filmmaker-anil-ganguly-passes-away-at-82-2166241


Q. 28. Name the person who has recently been appointed as new Chairman of Central Board of Direct

Taxes (CBDT)?

A. Atulesh Jindal B. Jitesh Khosla C. Vinay Sheel Oberoi D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Atulesh Jindal

What: as new Chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)



Atulesh Jindal has recently been appointed as new Chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT),

the supreme policy making body of Income Tax department.

He will replace A K Jain, who is going to complete his term this month end.

About Atulesh Jindal:

Atulesh Jindal is a 1978 batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, who is currently working as Member

(Revenue) in the CBDT. He will have tenure of six-months till he retires in July, a senior finance ministry.

About Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT):

The Central Board of Direct Taxes is a statutory authority functioning under the Central Board of

Revenue Act, 1963. The officials of the Board in their ex-officio capacity also function as a Division of the

Ministry dealing with matters relating to levy and collection of direct taxes. It provides essential inputs

for policy and planning of direct taxes in India and is also responsible for administration of the direct tax

laws through Income Tax Department.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/atulesh-jindal-appointed-new-cbdt-

chief/articleshow/50674104.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/atulesh-jindal-appointed-new-cbdt-chief/articleshow/50674104.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/atulesh-jindal-appointed-new-cbdt-chief/articleshow/50674104.cms


Q. 29. Name the person who was founder of Darpana Academy of Performing Arts, passed away

recently.

A. Mrinalini Sarabhai B. Subhashini Ali C. Lakshmi Sahgal D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Mrinalini Sarabhai

What: passed away



Legendary bharatanatyam dancer, Mrinalini Sarabhai passed away recently at the age of 97 years. She is

wife of renowned Indian scientist Vikram Sarabhai. She is survived by her son Kartikeya Sarabhai who is

well known as environmentalist and daughter Mallika Sarabhai who is renowned danseuse.

About Mrinalini Sarabhai:

Mrinalini Sarabhai was an Indian classical dancer, choreographer and instructor. She was the founder of

the Darpana Academy of Performing Arts that is an institute for imparting training in dance, drama,

music and puppetry, in the city of Ahmadabad. She was awarded with the Padma Bhushan award in

1992 and the Padma Shri award in 1965.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/music/legendary-dancer-mrinalini-sarabhai-dies-at-97/story-

yK1nU4KJxvixLGMHbxUUMK.html


http://www.hindustantimes.com/music/legendary-dancer-mrinalini-sarabhai-dies-at-97/story-yK1nU4KJxvixLGMHbxUUMK.html

http://www.hindustantimes.com/music/legendary-dancer-mrinalini-sarabhai-dies-at-97/story-yK1nU4KJxvixLGMHbxUUMK.html


Q. 30. Who has recently been appointed as the executive director of Greenpeace India?

A. Pramod Kumar Tiwari B. Ravi Chellam C. Alok Khare D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Ravi Chellam

What: appointed as the executive director of Greenpeace India



Renowned environmentalist Ravi Chellam has recently appointed as the executive director of

Greenpeace India. He will anchor the NGO which has been facing a series of challenges from a number

of government agencies apart from renewing the organisation's focus on campaigns for a clean and safe

future.

Ravi Chellam:

About Greenpeace:

Greenpeace is a Non Governmental Environmental Organization with offices in over forty countries and

with an international coordinating body in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It was founded by Canadian

environmental activists in 1971.

It’s goal is to ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity. And it focuses its

campaigning on worldwide issues such as climate change, deforestation, overfishing, commercial

whaling, genetic engineering, and anti-nuclear issues.



http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ravi-chellam-takes-charge-as-head-of-greenpeace-india-1268013


http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ravi-chellam-takes-charge-as-head-of-greenpeace-india-1268013


Q. 31. Name the person who was eminent tabla player, passed away recently.

A. Shankar Ghosh B. Dilip Borthakur C. Chohan Doley D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Eminent table player, Shankar Ghosh

What: passed away



Eminent tabla player Pandit Shankar Ghosh passed away on 22nd January 2016. He was 80 years of age.

About Pandit Shankar Ghosh:

Pandit Shankar Ghosh was an Indian tabla player. He was from the Farukhabad gharana of Hindustani

classical music. He was an occasional Hindustani classical singer where he followed the Patiala gharana.

He had been awarded with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in Tabla for 1999-2000. He was awarded with

this award by Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama.

http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-tabla-maestro-pandit-shankar-ghosh-passes-away-

2169114


http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-tabla-maestro-pandit-shankar-ghosh-passes-away-2169114

http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-tabla-maestro-pandit-shankar-ghosh-passes-away-2169114


Q. 32. Kalpana Ranjani has recently passed away, she was a

A. Malayam film actress B. Bhojpuri film actress C. Hindi film actress

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remmeber

Who: Kalpana Ranjani

What: passed away



One time national award winner and well known in Malayam film industry, Kalpana Ranjani has recently

passed away due to sudden cardiac arrest.

About Kalpana Ranjani:

Kalpana Ranjani was an Indian film actress best known for her work in South Indian films, primarily

Malayalam and Tamil films. She has acted in over 300 films in various South Indian languages. She

started her carrier as a child artist in the late 1970s.

At the 60th National Film Awards, she won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in

Thanichalla Njan (2012).

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/malayalam-actor-kalpana-passes-

away/article8153193.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/malayalam-actor-kalpana-passes-away/article8153193.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/malayalam-actor-kalpana-passes-away/article8153193.ece


Q. 33. Name the person who has recently been appointed as the Chief Commissioner for Persons with

Disabilities (CCPD)?

A. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey B. Mangat Ram Sharma C. Tapan Chandra Goswami

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Kamlesh Kumar Pandey

What: appointed as the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD)



Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey has been appointed as the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities

(CCPD) on 28th January 2016 for a period of three years.

About Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey:

Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey is a Science Graduate from University of Allahabad and Medical Graduate

from Agra University in 1990. He has been associated with Sewa Bharti, an NGO working in

rehabilitation of slum dwellers, Akhil Bhartiya Dristihin Kalyan Sangh, an NGO working for visually

challenged persons. Before joining the post of CCPD, Dr. Pandey was associated with Saksham, an NGO

working in the field of disability.



About the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD):

The Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) is appointed by the Central Government

from persons having special knowledge or practical experience in matters relating to rehabilitation of

Persons with Disabilities. The CCPD also coordinates the work of the State Governments’

Commissioners to monitor the utilization of funds disbursed by the Central Government; to take steps to

safeguard the rights and facilities made available to persons with disabilities; and to submit reports to

the Central Government on the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995.

http://tennews.in/dr-kamlesh-kumar-pandey-has-been-appointed-as-chief-commissioner-for-persons-

with-disabilities/


http://tennews.in/dr-kamlesh-kumar-pandey-has-been-appointed-as-chief-commissioner-for-persons-with-disabilities/

http://tennews.in/dr-kamlesh-kumar-pandey-has-been-appointed-as-chief-commissioner-for-persons-with-disabilities/


Places in News Q. 1. Which of the following states is going to host the Science Film Festival of India in January 2016?

A. Maharashtra B. Gujarat C. Goa D. Jharkhand

E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Goa

What: will host the Science Film Festival of India



Goa is going to host the first edition of Science Film Festival of India (SCI-FFI) from January 14. The event

is organized for three day by Vigyan Parishad, a body of Department of Science and Technology, Ministry

of Science and Technology, in association with Department of Science and Technology-Goa,

Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), Goa Science Centre and National Institute of Oceanography.

The festival will showcase motley of sci-fi films ranging from ‘The Martian’, Russell Crowe's ‘A Beautiful

Mind’, Roland Emmerich's ‘2012’ to ‘World War Z’, giving sci-fi film lovers a awe-inspiring experience.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/goa-to-host-science-film-festival-of-india-from-

january-14-116010100183_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/goa-to-host-science-film-festival-of-india-from-january-14-116010100183_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/goa-to-host-science-film-festival-of-india-from-january-14-116010100183_1.html


Q. 2. Which of the following states has recently become first to introduce compulsory gender

education at the graduate level?

A. Andhra Pradesh B. Maharashtra C. Telangana D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Telangana

What: first state to introduce compulsory gender education at the graduate level



Telangana has become the first State to introduce compulsory gender education at the graduate level.

The state has also introduced a bilingual textbook, ‘Towards a World of Equals’ in engineering colleges

affiliated to the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU-Hyderabad). From information on

unacknowledged women writers of Telangana to problems of sex selection and women’s work in politics

and economics, the book attempts to cover it all.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-becomes-first-state-to-make-gender-

education-compulsory/article8089730.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-becomes-first-state-to-make-gender-education-compulsory/article8089730.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-becomes-first-state-to-make-gender-education-compulsory/article8089730.ece


Sports and Games Q. 1. Amputee mountaineer Arunima Sinha has recently conquered Mt Aconcagua. The Mt Aconcagua

is situated in which country?

A. Chile B. Brazil C. Argentina D. Colombia E. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Amputee mountaineer Arunima Sinha

What: conquered Mt Aconcagua

Where: in Argentina



Arunima Sinha, the amputee mountaineer, has set a record by conquering Mount Aconcagua in

Argentina. Prior to this, she has already set a record by climbing the Mount Everest.

About Arunima Sinha:

Arunima Sinha is the first female amputee to climb Mount Everest. She is also the first Indian amputee

to climb Mount Everest.

She was a national level volleyball player who was pushed from a running train by thieves in 2011 while

she was resisting them. As a result, one of her legs had to be amputated below the knee.



About Mount Aconcagua:

Aconcagua is the highest mountain outside of Asia, at 6,960.8 metres (22,837 ft), and by extension the

highest point in both the Western Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. It is located in the Andes

mountain range, in the Mendoza Province, Argentina, and lies 112 kilometres (70 mi) northwest of its

capital, the city of Mendoza.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/amputee-mountaineer-arunima-sinha-conquers-mt-aconcagua-in-

argentina/1/560793.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/amputee-mountaineer-arunima-sinha-conquers-mt-aconcagua-in-argentina/1/560793.html

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/amputee-mountaineer-arunima-sinha-conquers-mt-aconcagua-in-argentina/1/560793.html


Q. 2. Which of the following countries has recently won the South Asian Football Federation Cup on

3rd January 2016?

A. India B. Pakistan C. Afghanistan D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: India

What: won the South Asian Football Federation Cup



India has defeated Afghanistan by 2-1 to lift the South Asian Football Federation Cup for the seventh

time on 3rd January 2016.

About South Asian Football Federation Cup:

The South Asian Football Federation Cup is the main association football competition of the men's

national football teams governed by the South Asian Football Federation. Previous names have included

the South Asian Association of Regional Co-operation Gold Cup in 1993 and South Asian Gold Cup 95 in

1995. Eight teams compete in the South Asian Football Federation Tournament. The competing teams

are: India, Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/India-beat-Afghanistan-2-1-to-lift-SAFF-

Cup-title-for-7th-time/articleshow/50429054.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/India-beat-Afghanistan-2-1-to-lift-SAFF-Cup-title-for-7th-time/articleshow/50429054.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/India-beat-Afghanistan-2-1-to-lift-SAFF-Cup-title-for-7th-time/articleshow/50429054.cms


Q. 3. Consider the following statements regarding R M Lodha Committee’s ‘Report on Cricket Reforms’

that was recently submitted to the Supreme Court. The Report Includes

1. Restructuring of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

2. Creation of a separate body to govern Indian Premier League (IPL)

3. A ban on ministers or government servants holding posts in the Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)



E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: RM Lodha Committee

What: submitted its ‘Report on Cricket Reforms’ to the Supreme Court



Justice RM Lodha Committee on IPL spot fixing on 4th January 2015 has submitted its ‘Report on Cricket

Reforms’ to the Supreme Court.

The panel has recommended separate governing bodies for IPL and BCCI, with limited autonomy for the

IPL Governing Council. It has also recommended legalizing betting. It also recommended almost a

complete restructuring of the BCCI and a ban on ministers or government servants holding posts in the

BCCI.

http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report-here-is-the-complete-justice-lodha-report-2162151


http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report-here-is-the-complete-justice-lodha-report-2162151


Q. 4. Which of the following countries has recently pulled out of 2016 Under-19 World Cup in

Bangladesh over security concerns?

A. Australia B. New Zealand C. England D. West Indies

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Australia

What: pulled out of 2016 Under-19 World Cup in Bangladesh

Why: due to security concerns



Australia has pulled out of 2016 Under-19 World Cup in Bangladesh due to security concerns. In this

regard, the decision was taken by Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland after monitoring the security

situation in Bangladesh.

http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/australia-pull-out-of-2016-u-19-world-cup-in-

bangladesh/


http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/australia-pull-out-of-2016-u-19-world-cup-in-bangladesh/

http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/australia-pull-out-of-2016-u-19-world-cup-in-bangladesh/


Q. 5. Which of the following tennis players has won the 2016 Chennai Open title?

A. David Ferrer B. Nick Kyrgios C. Stan Wawrinka D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Stan Wawrinka

What: won the 2016 Chennai Open title



Stan Wawrinka has recently won the 2016 Chennai Open title. He defeated teenager Coric 6-3, 7-5 to

claim his third consecutive title at India’s ATP 250 event.

About Stan Wawrinka:

Stan Wawrinka is a Swiss professional tennis player. He has won two Grand Slam singles titles in his

career the 2014 Australian Open and the 2015 French Open. He also won an Association of Tennis

Professionals (ATP) Masters 1000 tournament at the Monte Carlo Masters in 2014. He has also won a

gold medal for Switzerland in the men's doubles event at the 2008 Summer Olympics, partnering with

Roger Federer.

About Chennai Open:

The Chennai Open is a professional tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts. It is currently

part of the ATP World Tour 250 series of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) World Tour. It is



held annually in January at the SDAT Tennis Stadium in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is owned by IMG

and organized by IMG Reliance.

http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/tennis/stans-threepeat-showing-in-chennai/


http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/tennis/stans-threepeat-showing-in-chennai/


Q. 6. Which of the following pairs of women tennis players has recently won the Brisbane

International doubles title?

A. Victoria Azarenka and Andrea Petkovic B. Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis

C. Simona Halep and Elena Vesnina D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis

What: won the Brisbane International doubles title



Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis have recently clinched the women’s doubles title of the $1 million

Brisbane International at the Queensland Tennis Centre. They defeated Victoria Azarenka and Andrea

Petkovic by 7-5, 6-1.

With this win, the top-seeded pair has recorded a 26-match winning streak. The last women's pair to

win more than 25 consecutive matches was Gigi Fernandez from Puerto Rico and Natasha Zvereva from

Belarus, who had notched up 28 straight victories in 1994.

About Sania Mirza:



Sania Mirza is an Indian professional tennis player who is presently ranked world No. 1 in women's

doubles. From 2003 until her retirement from singles in 2013, she was ranked by the Women's Tennis

Association as India's No. 1 player in singles and doubles. She is the highest-ranked female player ever

from India, peaking at world No. 27 in singles in mid 2007.

She was appointed as the UN Women's Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia during the event held to

mark the International Day to End Violence against Women on 25th November 2013.

About Martina Hingis:

Martina Hingis is a Swiss professional tennis player who spent a total of 209 weeks as world No. 1. She

has won five Grand Slam singles titles (three at the Australian Open, one at Wimbledon, and one at the

US Open), eleven Grand Slam women's doubles titles, winning a calendar-year doubles Grand Slam in

1998, and four Grand Slam mixed doubles titles; for a combined total of twenty major titles. In addition,

she has won the season-ending WTA Championships two times in singles and three times in doubles.

About Brisbane International title:

The Brisbane International is a professional tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts in

Brisbane, Queensland. It is part of the ATP World Tour 250 series of the Association of Tennis

Professionals (ATP) World Tour. It is also a part of the WTA Premier tournaments of the Women's Tennis

Association (WTA) Tour. It is organized in the month of January every year at the Queensland Tennis

Centre just before the first Grand Slam tournament of the season, the Australian Open. It is owned by

Tennis Australia.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/top-stories/Sania-Mirza-Martina-Hingis-clinch-

Brisbane-International-title/articleshow/50511832.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/top-stories/Sania-Mirza-Martina-Hingis-clinch-Brisbane-International-title/articleshow/50511832.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/top-stories/Sania-Mirza-Martina-Hingis-clinch-Brisbane-International-title/articleshow/50511832.cms


Q. 7. Which of the following tennis players has recently won the Brisbane International Men’s Sigle

Trophy?

A. Roger Federer B. Milos Raonic C. Novak Djokovic

D. Kei Nishikori E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Milos Raonic

What: won the Brisbane International Men’s Sigle Trophy



Milos Raonic has recently won the Brisbane International Men’s Sigle Trophy by defeating Roger Federer

by 6-4 6-4.

About Milos Raonic:

Milos Raonic is a Canadian professional tennis player of Montenegrin origin who grew up in Thornhill,

Ontario.

He qualified for his first Grand Slam event at the 2010 U.S. Open. In 2011 he rose from World No. 102 to

No. 37 in a month, after he reached the fourth round of the Australian Open and won his first ATP title

at the 2011 SAP Open. From late 2010 until May 2013, he was coached by former Spanish pro player

Galo Blanco in Barcelona. He was coached by Ivan Ljubičić until their split in 2015.

http://www.thehindu.com/sport/tennis/brisbane-international-tennis-tournament-milos-raonic-beats-

roger-federer-wins-brisbane-title/article8089159.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/sport/tennis/brisbane-international-tennis-tournament-milos-raonic-beats-roger-federer-wins-brisbane-title/article8089159.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/sport/tennis/brisbane-international-tennis-tournament-milos-raonic-beats-roger-federer-wins-brisbane-title/article8089159.ece


Q. 8. Which one of the following Indian female shooters has recently made new World Record in 10m

Air Rifle at Swedish Cup Grand Prix?

A. Apurvi Chandela B. Shagun Chowdhary C. Saroja Jhuthu

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Apurvi Chandela

What: made new World Record in 10m Air Rifle at Swedish Cup Grand Prix



Indian shooter Apurvi Chandela made the new World Record on a way to winning gold in the women's

10 metre air rifle event at the Swedish Cup Grand Prix.

She shot 211.2 to surpass the feat of Chinese Olympic gold medalist Yi Siling, who held the record with

211 at Munich event in 2010.

The winners of silver and bronze medals were Swedish shooters Astrid Steffensen (207.6) and Stine

Nielsen (185.0), respectively.

About Apurvi Chandela:

Apurvi Chandela is an Indian shooter who competes in the 10 metre air rifle event. She won the gold

medal in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

http://sports.ndtv.com/shooting/news/253992-apurvi-chandela-sets-world-record-in-10m-air-rifle-at-

swedish-cup-grand-prix


http://sports.ndtv.com/shooting/news/253992-apurvi-chandela-sets-world-record-in-10m-air-rifle-at-swedish-cup-grand-prix

http://sports.ndtv.com/shooting/news/253992-apurvi-chandela-sets-world-record-in-10m-air-rifle-at-swedish-cup-grand-prix


Q. 9. Which of the following tennis players has become first Russian in International Tennis Hall of

Fame?

A. Nikolay Davydenko B. Dmitry Tursunov C. Mikhail Youzhny D. Marat Safin

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Marat Safin

What: become first Russian in International Tennis Hall of Fame



Former World No.1 tennis player Marat Safin of Russia has recently become first Russian in International

Tennis Hall of Fame.

The official ceremony to induct the Russian tennis player has been scheduled for 16th July 2016.

About Marat Safin:

Marat Safin is a Russian retired tennis player and politician. He has won two Grand Slam tournaments

and reached the world no. 1 ranking during his career. He began his professional career in 1997, and

held the No. 1 world ranking for a total of 9 weeks between November 2000 and April 2001. He won his

first Grand Slam title at the 2000 US Open after defeating Pete Sampras, and won the 2005 Australian

Open, defeating Australian Lleyton Hewitt in the final.



About International Tennis Hall of Fame:

The International Tennis Hall of Fame is located in Newport, Rhode Island, United States. It honors

players and contributors to the sport of tennis and includes a museum, grass tennis courts, an indoor

tennis facility, and a court tennis facility.

http://sports.ndtv.com/tennis/news/254341-marat-safin-inducted-into-international-tennis-hall-of-

fame


http://sports.ndtv.com/tennis/news/254341-marat-safin-inducted-into-international-tennis-hall-of-fame

http://sports.ndtv.com/tennis/news/254341-marat-safin-inducted-into-international-tennis-hall-of-fame


Q. 10. Which of the following Indian female badminton players has recently won the 2016 Malaysia

Masters Grand Prix Gold title?

A. Saina Nehwal B. P. V. Sindhu C. Ashwini Ponnappa D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: P. V. Sindhu

What: won the 2016 Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold title



India's P. V. Sindhu has recently won the 2016 Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold title after defeating

Scotland's Kristy Gilmour in straight games in the final.

She won the title for the second time in her career with a comprehensive 21-15, 21-9 win over

Scotland's Kirsty Gilmour.

About P. V. Sindhu:

P. V. Sindhu full name Pusarla Venkata Sindhu is an Indian badminton player. She is two time World

Championship bronze-medalist.

On 10 August 2013, she became the first ever Indian woman to win a medal in singles at the World

Championships. In 2015, she received India's fourth highest civilian honor Padma Shri awarded on 30th

March 2015.



About Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold:

The Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold started in 2009. It is the second level tournament held after

Superseries. The total prize money is US$120,000.

http://sports.ndtv.com/badminton/news/254741-pv-sindhu-wins-malaysia-masters-wins-1st-title-this-

year


http://sports.ndtv.com/badminton/news/254741-pv-sindhu-wins-malaysia-masters-wins-1st-title-this-year

http://sports.ndtv.com/badminton/news/254741-pv-sindhu-wins-malaysia-masters-wins-1st-title-this-year


Q. 11. On 29th January 2016, Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis have won which of the following tennis

tournament?

A. German Open tennis tournament B. Australian Open tennis tournament

C. USA Open tennis tournament D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis

What: won the 2016 Australian Open title of tennis in the women’s doubles category



Sania Mirza from India and Martina Hingis from Switzerland have defeated seventh seeded Czech

combination of Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka to lift the 2016 Australian Open women's

doubles title.

About Australian Open:

The Australian Open is one of the major tennis tournaments in the world which is organized annually

over the last fortnight of January in Melbourne, Australia. It was first organized in 1905. The tournament

is chronologically the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events of the year - the other three being the

French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

It features men's and women's singles; men's, women's and mixed doubles and junior's championships;

as well as wheelchair, legends and exhibition events.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2016/indian-challenge/Sania-Mirza-

and-Martina-Hingis-win-Australian-Open-womens-doubles-title/articleshow/50769250.cms


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2016/indian-challenge/Sania-Mirza-and-Martina-Hingis-win-Australian-Open-womens-doubles-title/articleshow/50769250.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2016/indian-challenge/Sania-Mirza-and-Martina-Hingis-win-Australian-Open-womens-doubles-title/articleshow/50769250.cms


Q. 12. Who has won the 2016 Australian Open woman’s single title?

A. Petra Kvitova B. Angelique Kerber C. Venus Williams D. Serena Williams

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Angelique Kerber

What: won the 2016 Australian Open woman’s single title



Angelique Kerber has recently won the 2016 Australian Open woman’s single title by defeating Serena

Williams by 6-4 3-6 6-4 in the final.

About Angelique Kerber:

Angelique Kerber is a German and Polish professional tennis player. She is presently at world no. 2 in

women’s category. On 30th January 2016, she has won the Australian Open in woman’s single. She has

won a further five titles at the Premier-level tournaments of Paris (indoors), Charleston, Stuttgart,

Birmingham and Stanford.

About Australian Open:

The Australian Open is one of the major tennis tournaments in the world which is organized annually

over the last fortnight of January in Melbourne, Australia. It was first organized in 1905. The tournament



is chronologically the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events of the year - the other three being the

French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

It features men's and women's singles; men's, women's and mixed doubles and junior's championships;

as well as wheelchair, legends and exhibition events.

http://edition.cnn.com/2016/01/30/tennis/australian-open-tennis-serena-williams-angelique-kerber/


http://edition.cnn.com/2016/01/30/tennis/australian-open-tennis-serena-williams-angelique-kerber/


Books and Authors Q. 1. Novel ‘Go Set a Watchman’ has recently topped the US bestseller list in 2015. The Novel was

written by

A. Claudia Durst Johnson B. Victoria Beckham C. Harper Lee

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Harper Lee’s Novel ‘Go Set a Watchman topped’

What: has topped the US bestseller list in 2015



Harper Lee’s Novel ‘Go Set a Watchman’ has recently topped the US bestseller list in 2015, selling 1.6m

copies more than half a century after her Pulitzer-winning first book was published.

About Harper Lee:

Harper Lee is an American novelist widely known for her novel To Kill a Mockingbird, published in 1960.

It was immediately successful, winning the Pulitzer Prize and has become a classic of modern American

literature. Though Lee published only this single book for half a century, she was awarded the

Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contribution to literature. She has received numerous honorary

degrees, and declined to speak on each occasion. Lee assisted close friend Truman Capote in his

research for the book In Cold Blood (1966).



https://www.google.co.in/#q=Harper+Lee%27s+Go+Set+a+Watchman+topped+2015+US+Bestseller+List


https://www.google.co.in/#q=Harper+Lee%27s+Go+Set+a+Watchman+topped+2015+US+Bestseller+List


Q. 2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently released a book titled ‘Maru Bharat Saru Bharat’.

Who is the writer of the book?

A. Ratnasunder Suriswarji B. Vinod Kumar Pipersenia C. Suresh Chandra Panda

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

What: released a book titled ‘Maru Bharat Saru Bharat’ written by Ratnasunder Suriswarji



Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently released a book titled "Maru Bharat Saru Bharat" (My India

Noble India) written by Jain Acharya Ratnasunder Suriswarji Maharaj through video conference.

Acharya Ratnasunder Suriswarji Maharaj has written 300 books. Several aspects of life have found their

reflection in his works.

http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pm-narendra-modi-releases-book-maru-bharat-saru-bharat-

authored-by-jain-acharya_1843569.html


http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pm-narendra-modi-releases-book-maru-bharat-saru-bharat-authored-by-jain-acharya_1843569.html

http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pm-narendra-modi-releases-book-maru-bharat-saru-bharat-authored-by-jain-acharya_1843569.html


Acts and Bills Q. 1. Consider the following Acts which have recently been approved by the President, Pranab

Mukherjee.

1. The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act

2. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act

3. The Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Act, 2015

4. The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts Act


A. Only 1 and 2 B. Only 2 and 3 C. Only 1, 2 and 3 D. All 1, 2, 3 and 4

E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: The President, Pranab Mukherjee

What: given approval to 5 key legislations



The President Pranab Mukherjee has recently given nod to the Arbitration and Conciliation

(Amendment) Act, the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities)

Amendment Act, the Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of

High Courts Act, The Atomic Energy (Amendment) Act and the Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Act,

2015.

The Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Act, 2015 will help in providing monthly bonus calculation ceiling

to Rs. 7,000 per month from the existing Rs. 3,500. It will also enhance the eligibility limit for payment of

bonus from Rs. 10,000 per month to Rs. 21,000 per month.

According to the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2015, an arbitrator will have to settle a

case within 18 months. After the completion of 12 months, certain restrictions will be put in place to

ensure that the arbitration case does not linger.

The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts Act is

aimed at creating commercial benches in select high courts.



Assaulting or sexually exploiting an SC or ST woman will be consider as an offence under the Scheduled

Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015.

The Atomic Energy (Amendment) Act aims at changing the definition of ‘Government Company’ in the

Act with a view to expand its scope. At present, only two PSUs, NPCIL and Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut

Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), which are under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic

Energy, operate nuclear power plants in the country.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-pranab-mukherjee-gives-assent-to-five-key-

legislations/article8060957.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-pranab-mukherjee-gives-assent-to-five-key-legislations/article8060957.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-pranab-mukherjee-gives-assent-to-five-key-legislations/article8060957.ece


Q. 2. On 7th January 2016, the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee has promulgated which of the

following ordinances to make amendment to the Act?

A. The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016

B. The Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Ordinance, 2016

C. The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2016

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee

What: promulgated the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016

Why: to make amendments to the Enemy Property Act, 1968



On 7th January 2016, the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee has promulgated the Enemy Property

(Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016 to make amendments to the Enemy Property Act, 1968.

The Amendments are:

Once an enemy property is vested to the Custodian it shall continue to be vested in him. It shall not

revert back to enemy subject or enemy firm due to reasons such as death of subject or firm ceased to

function.

The law of succession does not apply to enemy property. Henceforth there cannot be transfer of any

property vested in the custodian by an enemy till it is disposed of in accordance with the provisions of

the Act.

The above amendments to the Enemy Property Act, 1968 will plug the loopholes in the Act to ensure

that the enemy properties that have been vested in the Custodian remain so and they do not revert

back to the enemy subject or enemy firm.

About Enemy Property Act, 1968:

The Enemy Property Act was enacted in the year 1968 by the Government of India, which provided for

the continuous vesting of enemy property in the Custodian. The Central Government through the

Custodian of Enemy Property for India is in possession of enemy properties spread across many states in

the country. In addition, there are also movable properties categorized as enemy properties.



http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-08/news/69615311_1_ordinance-route-enemy-

property-act-president-pranab-mukherjee


http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-08/news/69615311_1_ordinance-route-enemy-property-act-president-pranab-mukherjee

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2016-01-08/news/69615311_1_ordinance-route-enemy-property-act-president-pranab-mukherjee


Q. 3. Which of the following acts has come into force on 15th January 2016?

A. Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2015

B. Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

C. Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2015

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

What: came into force



The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 has come into force 15th January 2016

that will the Juvenile Justice Act 2000.

Key features of Act:

1. The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 provides for strengthened provisions for both children in need of care

and protection and children in conflict with law.

2. Change in nomenclature from ‘juvenile’ to ‘child’ or ‘child in conflict with law’, across the Act to

remove the negative connotation associated with the word “juvenile.”

3. Special provisions for heinous offences committed by children above the age of sixteen year.

4. Separation of new chapter on Adoption to streamline adoption of orphan abandoned and

surrendered children.

5. Inclusion of new offences committed against children.

6. Mandatory registration of Child Care Institutions.

http://www.sify.com/news/amended-juvenile-justice-act-comes-into-force-news-national-

qbpxdhiedchbc.html


http://www.sify.com/news/amended-juvenile-justice-act-comes-into-force-news-national-qbpxdhiedchbc.html

http://www.sify.com/news/amended-juvenile-justice-act-comes-into-force-news-national-qbpxdhiedchbc.html


Q. 4. President Pranab Mukherjee has given it nod to the Sugar Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2015. Which of

the following statements is/are true regarding this?

1. The Bill proposes to increase this ceiling of sugar to Rs 100 per quintal from existing Rs 25 per

quintal specified in the principal Act.

2. The principal Act empowers central government to fix the rate of sugar cess from time to time.


Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: President Pranab Mukherjee

What: given it nod to the Sugar Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2015



President Pranab Mukherjee has given his nod to the Sugar Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2015, raising the

ceiling of the impost from Rs 25 to Rs 200 per quintal, a measure that will help sugarcane growers and

cash-starved mills.

The bill will help the government meet its expenditure on interventions to ensure payment of dues to

the sugarcane farmers, was granted on January 8.

The Sugar Cess (Amendment) Act, 2015, which has amended the Sugar Cess Act, 1982, provides for the

imposition of a cess as an excise duty on the production of sugar.

http://www.businesstoday.in/current/policy/sugar-cess-ceiling-hiked-to-rs-200-per-quintal-after-

president-nod-to-amendment-bill/story/228050.html


http://www.businesstoday.in/current/policy/sugar-cess-ceiling-hiked-to-rs-200-per-quintal-after-president-nod-to-amendment-bill/story/228050.html

http://www.businesstoday.in/current/policy/sugar-cess-ceiling-hiked-to-rs-200-per-quintal-after-president-nod-to-amendment-bill/story/228050.html


Q. 5. Consider the following statements regarding the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes

(Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015 that came into force on 26th January 2016.

1. Establishment of special courts for speedy trial of the cases related to offences against members of

the Scheduled castes (SC) and Scheduled tribes (ST).

2. Preventing tribal people from using public utilities or entering any religious, educational or health

institute is also made punishable by law.

3. The practice of dedicating a tribal woman as devadasi to a temple has also been prohibited by the

law.



E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015

What: came into force



The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015 to

ensure more stringent provisions for prevention of Atrocities against Scheduled Castes and the

Scheduled Tribes came into force on 26th January 2016. The Act was approved by President Pranab

Mukherjee earlier it was passed by the Lok Sabha on 4th August 2015 and Rajya Sabha on 21st December

2015 as the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2015.

Key features of the Act:

1. Establishment of special courts for speedy trial of the cases related to offences against members of

the scheduled castes (SC) and scheduled tribes (ST).

2. The act also adds new offences to the existing ones against members of SCs and STs. These include

garlanding them with footwear, compelling them to do manual scavenging or disposing animal or

human carcasses.

3. Strict rules forbid abusing any member of the scheduled tribe and scheduled caste by caste name,

disrespecting any deceased tribal person held in high esteem or attempting to promote feelings of ill-will

against the community, and threatening or imposing economic and social ostracisation.



4. The practice of dedicating a tribal woman as devadasi to a temple has also been prohibited by the

law.

5. Preventing tribal people from using public utilities or entering any religious, educational or health

institute is also made punishable by law.

6. As for the public servants, rejection of filing an FIR submitted by a tribal person or not allowing him or

her to avail any such public resources will also attract a jail term of six to 12 months for the said servant.

7. A new chapter has also been added under the parent Act that directs the state authority to make

arrangements for the protection of witnesses and victims until their cases are not solved. It also

mentions that the state should come up with a scheme that expedites the implementation of rights of

victims, witnesses and their dependents.

http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/the-scheduled-castes-and-the-

scheduled-tribes-prevention-of-atrocities-amendment-116012500234_1.html


http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/the-scheduled-castes-and-the-scheduled-tribes-prevention-of-atrocities-amendment-116012500234_1.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/the-scheduled-castes-and-the-scheduled-tribes-prevention-of-atrocities-amendment-116012500234_1.html


Defence Affairs

Q. 1. ‘Exercise Shakti-2016’ will be held between India and ______________.

A. France B. Canada C. Japan D. China

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: Exercise Shakti-2016

What: will be held in January 2016



‘Exercise Shakti-2016’ will be held between India and France in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in

Rajasthan's Bikaner in January 2016. The Exercise will be focused on counter terrorism operations in

backdrop of semi-urban terrain under United Nations Mandate.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indo-french-joint-military-training-drill-exercise-

shakti-2016-to-be-held-in-january/articleshow/50406713.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indo-french-joint-military-training-drill-exercise-shakti-2016-to-be-held-in-january/articleshow/50406713.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indo-french-joint-military-training-drill-exercise-shakti-2016-to-be-held-in-january/articleshow/50406713.cms


Q. 2. Which one of the following is a Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system that was recently

test fired by Indian Army?

A. Bhaskara-II B. Kalpana-I C. Pinaka II D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: Pinaka II, a Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system

What: test fired by Indian Army



The Indian Army has successfully test fired Pinaka II, a multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system, at

Pokhran field firing range in Rajasthan, India.

The trials of Pinaka II were carried out by the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation's

(DRDO) Pune-based Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) laboratory.

About Pinaka II:

Pinaka II, Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system has high operational mobility, flexibility and

accuracy as the major characteristics, which give the weapon an edge in modern artillery warfare for the

Indian Armed Forces.

http://www.army-technology.com/news/newsindian-army-tests-pinaka-ii-multi-barrel-rocket-launcher-

system-4766885


http://www.army-technology.com/news/newsindian-army-tests-pinaka-ii-multi-barrel-rocket-launcher-system-4766885

http://www.army-technology.com/news/newsindian-army-tests-pinaka-ii-multi-barrel-rocket-launcher-system-4766885


Q. 3. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently test fired new

ammunition named PCB (Penetration-Cum Blast) and TB (Thermobaric). Both are designed for which

of the following tanks?

A. MBT Tank EX B. MBT Arjun C. MBT Vijayanta

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

What: test fired new ammunition for MBT Arjun



The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test-fired new

ammunition named PCB (Penetration-Cum Blast) and TB (Thermobaric) which are designed for Main

Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun.

The trials have been hailed as significant as it is for the first time such an evaluation is carried out in

India.

The main purpose of the trials were to demonstrate the effectiveness of the ammunitions on derelict

tank fitted with instrumentation to measure the shocks, blast pressure and temperature at various

locations and on advanced imaging systems.

About Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun Tank:

The Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun is a third generation tank developed by India's Defence Research and

Development Organization (DRDO), for the Indian Army. The tank is named after Arjun, the main

protagonist of, and India's great archer according to, the Indian epic Mahabharata.

http://www.oneindia.com/india/drdo-test-fires-new-ammo-for-mbt-arjun-successfully-1978287.html


http://www.oneindia.com/india/drdo-test-fires-new-ammo-for-mbt-arjun-successfully-1978287.html


Q. 4. Consider the following statements regarding INS Kadmatt that was recently commissioned by

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan.

1. It is India’s second indigenous stealth anti submarine warfare corvette.

2. A unique feature of the ship is the high level of indigenisation incorporated in the production .



Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: INS Kadmatt

What: was commissioned Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan



Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) corvette INS Kadmatt has recently been commissioned in the Indian Navy

by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan at naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam.

The ship has many state of the art equipment which include the rail-less helo traversing system and

foldable hangar door for the integral ASW helicopter which not only increases the strike capability of the

ship, but also enhances the detection capability manifold.

The ship is the latest indigenous ship after 'Shivalik' class, 'Kolkata' class and 'INS Kamorta' wherein a

plethora of weapons and sensors have been integrated to provide a 'Common Operational Picture

(COP)'.

About 90 per cent of the ship is indigenous. It has been designed by the Navy's in-house organisation,

the Directorate of Naval Design, and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited,

Kolkata.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/asw-corvette-ins-kadmatt-to-be-commissioned-

at-vizag-tomorrow/articleshow/50470206.cms


http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/asw-corvette-ins-kadmatt-to-be-commissioned-at-vizag-tomorrow/articleshow/50470206.cms

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/asw-corvette-ins-kadmatt-to-be-commissioned-at-vizag-tomorrow/articleshow/50470206.cms


Q. 5. Consider the following statements regarding major changes approved by the government to the

Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016.

1. The DPP 2016 will have a new category, Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured

(IDDM) platforms.

2. The domestic companies eligible under IDDM will have majority Indian control and operated by

Indian nationals.

3. The government through the Department of Defence Production will fund private R&D for which

various norms have been stipulated.



E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

What: approved major changes in the new Defence Procurement Procedure (DDP) 2016



Attempting to streamline defence acquisitions and give a big impetus to indigenization through the

‘Make in India’ initiative, the government has approved major changes to the Defence Procurement

Procedure (DPP).

In this regard, the decision was taken by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence

Minister Manohar Parrikar.

The highlights of the new procedure are:

1. A new category to promote domestic manufacturing, including government funding for Research &

Development (R&D).

2. Recognition of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in technology development.

3. Recommendations of the expert committee headed by former Home Secretary Dhirendra Singh were

considered.

4. A new category, Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) platforms.



5. Two sub-categories have been created, one with mandatory 40 percent domestic content for a

domestic design and the other mandating 60 percent local content if the design is not Indian.

6. The domestic companies eligible under this will have majority Indian control and operated by Indian

nationals.

In addition to building a technology base in the country, the government through the Department of

Defence Production will fund private R&D for which various norms have been stipulated. Under this

projects are eligible for up to 90 percent funding.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fillip-to-make-in-india-in-defence-

purchases/article8093796.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fillip-to-make-in-india-in-defence-purchases/article8093796.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fillip-to-make-in-india-in-defence-purchases/article8093796.ece


Q. 6. Consider the following statements regarding Nag Missile that was recently test fired?

1. It is fire and forget anti-tank missile.

2. It can hit the target 4-5 km away during night.

3. It is equipped with Imaging-Infrared seeker which will help in guiding the missile to its target after

its launch.



E. None of these

Ans. D

Hints to Remember

Who: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

What: successfully test fired anti tank missile, Nag



The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently test fired indigenously

developed, fire and forget anti tank missile, Nag. It successfully hit the target 4 km away during a night

trial in the Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan.

The DRDO used the Thermal Target System (TTS) developed by a defence laboratory at Jodhpur as target

for the missile during the test fire of Nag anti-tank missile. Thermal Target System (TTS) imitated the

target similar to operational tank. This was possible as thermal mapping from tank to TTS was carried

out for generating thermal signature.

About Nag Missile:

Nag missile is a third generation fire-and-forget, anti-tank missile developed in India. It is one of five

missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the

Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). The missile uses HEAT (High explosive anti-

tank). It can destroy modern tanks with armoured protection by nullifying their ERA (explosive reactive

armour). It can hit targets in the range of 4–5 km.



Q. 7. The Indian coast guards conducted a joint exercise named “Sahyog-Kaijin 2016” with their

counterparts from which of the following countries?

A. Russia B. Japan C. China D. Thailand

E. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: a joint exercise named “Sahyog-Kaijin 2016”

What: concluded between India and Japan



The 15th edition of ‘Sahyog-Kaijin’ joint exercise concluded between India and Japan in the Bay of

Bengal off the Chennai coast.

From Indian side ICGS Samudra Paheredar, ICGS Sarang, ICGS Vishwast, ICGS Rajtarang, ICGS Rajkamal

and a Dornier Do 226 and chetak helicopters took part in the ‘Sahyog-Kaijin XV’ exercise. While this is

the second time in three months a ship from the Japanese military forces is participating in a military

exercise along with India. In October last year, Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force’s ship FS Fuyuzuk

participated in exercise ‘Malabar’ with ships and aircraft of the Indian and the United States navies.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-japan-conduct-joint-exercise-sahyogkaijin-off-chennai-

coast/article8112017.ece


http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-japan-conduct-joint-exercise-sahyogkaijin-off-chennai-coast/article8112017.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-japan-conduct-joint-exercise-sahyogkaijin-off-chennai-coast/article8112017.ece


Important Days and Dates Q. 1. Which of the following days was observed on 4th January 2016?

A. World Braille Day B. World Cancer Day C. World Wildlife Day D. World Sparrow Day

E. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: World Braille Day

What: was observed across the world



On 4th January 2016, World Braille Day was observed across the World. Louis Braille, the developer of

Braille Code, was born on 4th January 1809.

About Louis Braille:

Louis Braille was a French educator and inventor of a system of reading and writing for use by the blind

or visually impaired. He invented a set of symbols in the shape of raised dots on paper that could be

used as alternatives to English alphabets. At the age of 15, Braille developed his namesake code which is

still used as a language system for the visually challenged.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/world-braille-day/1/561732.html


http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/world-braille-day/1/561732.html


Q. 2. Which of the following days was observed on 12th January 2016?

A. National Youth Day B. National Voters' Day C. National Science Day

D. None of these

Ans. A

Hints to Remember

Who: National Youth Day

What: was observed across India



About National Youth Day:

In 1984 the Government of India declared the day of 12th January as the National Youth Day and since

1985 the event is celebrated in India every year. The Day is being observed on the day of the social

reformer, philosopher and great thinker Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary.

The objective behind the government's move was to imbibe the students and youth with the philosophy

and ideals of the Swamiji, the man who brought a change in the thought process of the youth.

http://www.oneindia.com/feature/national-youth-day-celebrated-on-swami-vivekananda-s-birth-

anniversary-explained-1619162.html


http://www.oneindia.com/feature/national-youth-day-celebrated-on-swami-vivekananda-s-birth-anniversary-explained-1619162.html

http://www.oneindia.com/feature/national-youth-day-celebrated-on-swami-vivekananda-s-birth-anniversary-explained-1619162.html


Q. 3. On 25th January 2016, which of the following days was observed?

A. National Youth Day B. National Voters’ Day C. National Science Day

D. None of these

Ans. B

Hints to Remember

Who: National Voters’ Day

What: observed across India



Election Commission of India is celebrating 6th National Voters’ Day (NVD) across India on 25th January

2016. The theme for the 6th National Voters’ Day is ‘Inclusive and Qualitative Participation’. More about

this day, 25th January is also the foundation day of the Election Commission, which came into force on

this day in 1950. The Commission’s objective through NVD is to increase enrolment of voters, especially

of the newly eligible ones.

About National Voters’ Day:

Government of India has decided to celebrate January 25 every year as 'National Voters' Day'. It started

from 25th January 2011 to mark Commission's foundation day.





Q. 4. On 26th January 2016, which republic day was being celebrated across Indian?

A. 65th Republic Day B. 66th Republic Day C. 67th Republic Day

D. None of these

Ans. C

Hints to Remember

Who: 67th Republic Day

What: celebrated across India



India has celebrated 67th Republic Day on 26th January 2016. President of France, Francois Hollande was

the Chief Guest at the event.

About Republic Day:

On 26th January 1950, the Constitution of India came into force from which replaced the Government of

India Act - 1935 as the governing document of India. So the day is celebrated as Republic Day of India.

The Constitution of India was adopted by the Indian Constituent Assembly on 26th November 1949 and

came into effect on 26th January 1950 with a democratic government system, completing the country's

transition towards becoming an independent republic.

26th January was chosen as the Republic day because it was on this day in 1930 when the Declaration of

Indian Independence (Purna Swaraj) was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress as opposed to the

Dominion status offered by the British Regime.

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-celebrates-67th-republic-day-francois-hollande-chief-guest-live-

updates-1270087

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http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-celebrates-67th-republic-day-francois-hollande-chief-guest-live-updates-1270087

http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-celebrates-67th-republic-day-francois-hollande-chief-guest-live-updates-1270087


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