CURRENT AFFAIRS 2015 JANUARY TO NOVEMBER

CURRENT AFFAIRS 2015

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS JANUARY 2015(100 Questions) 

Question: Jhumpa Lahiri's which book won 2015 DSC Prize for South Asian Literature on 22 January 2015?
(A) The Namesake
(B) Interpreter of Maladies
(C) The Lowland
(D) The White Tiger
Answer: (C) The Lowland
Question: PM Modi launched 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign on 22 January 2015 at which place?
(A) Idukki, Kerala
(B) Gandhinagar, Gujarat
(C) Panipat, Haryana
(D) Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Answer: (C) Panipat, Haryana
Question: Who among the following is the chairman of the committee that has submitted its report on restructuring of Food Corporation of India, recently?
(A) TSR Subramanian
(B) Bimal Jalan
(C) Ashok Kumar Mathur
(D) Shanta Kumar 
Answer: (D) Shanta Kumar
Question: Which company topped global vehicle sales in 2014 as per report released recently?
(A) Toyota Motor
(B) General Motors
(C) Volkswagen
(D) Maruti Suzuki
Answer: (A) Toyota Motor
Question: __th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival began on 21 January 2015?
(A) 6th
(B) 8th
(C) 12th
(D) 7th
Answer: (B) 8th
Question: South Korean steel major Posco and state-run SAIL recently decided to jointly set up a 3-million-tonne integrated plant in which state, with an estimated investment of about Rs 18,000 crore?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Bihar
(C) Jharkhand
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (C) Jharkhand
Question: Which Union Ministry on 21 January 2015 launched the National Heritage Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) that seeks to preserve and rejuvenate the rich cultural heritage of the country?
(A) Union Ministry of Tourism
(B) Union Ministry of Culture
(C) Union Ministry of Home Affairs
(D) Union Ministry of Urban Development
Answer: (D) Union Ministry of Urban Development
Question: Who among the following joined as full time member of NITI Aayog on 21 January 2015?
(A) Bibek Debroy
(B) Arvind Panagariya
(C) Sindhushree Khullar
(D) Aravind Subramanian
Answer: (A) Bibek Debroy
Question: Which session of Parliament is set to begin on February 23, 2015?
(A) Winter Session
(B) Budget Session
(C) Monsoon Session
(D) Summer Session
Answer: (B) Budget Session
Question: Name the Special deposit scheme for girl children launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 22 January 2015?
(A) Sukanya Samriddhi Account
(B) Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Account
(C) Ujjwala Account
(D) Rajya Mahila Samman Account
Answer: (A) Sukanya Samriddhi Account
Question: Pankaj Advani recently won the seventh Senior National Billiards Championship. Where was the event held?
(A) Bengaluru
(B) Kolkata
(C) Dehradun
(D) Mussoorie
Answer: (B) Kolkata
Question: Which state government recently signed a pact with International Crop Research Institute for Semi-arid Tropics (ICRISAT) to provide assistance in making agriculture sustainable and profitable?
(A) Madhya Pradesh
(B) Gujarat
(C) Karnataka
(D) Andhra Pradesh 
Answer: (D) Andhra Pradesh
Question: Rajni Kothari who passed away on 19 January 2015 was an eminent?
(A) Film Director
(B) Writer
(C) Political scientist
(D) Physicist
Answer: (C) Political scientist
Question: Faten Hamama who died on 17 January 2015 is the Iconic actress from which country?
(A) Italy
(B) Egypt
(C) France
(D) South Africa
Answer: (B) Egypt
Question: Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ms Uma Bharati on 17 January 2015 announced which year as 'Jal Kranti Varsh'?
(A) 2015-16
(B) 2016-17
(C) 2017-18
(D) 2018-19
Answer: (A) 2015-16
Question: R K Tyagi who was recently conferred with 'JGBS-Top Rankers' Excellence Award for CEO of the year is the chairman of?
(A) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
(B) Indian Oil Corporation
(C) Air India
(D) Coal India Limited
Answer: (A) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Question: Name the Union Social Justice Minister who on 16 January 2015 launched a scheme 'Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes', under which members of the reserved community will be offered concessional finance to start new business ventures?
(A) Jual Oram
(B) Prakash Javedkar
(C) Thaawar Chand Gehlot
(D) Maneka Gandhi
Answer: (C) Thaawar Chand Gehlot
Question: Who was on 19 January 2015 appointed chairperson of the censor board, days after Leela Samson resigned from the post?
(A) Pahlaj Nihalani
(B) Ashoke Pandit
(C) Chandra Prakash Dwivedi
(D) Vani Tripathi Tikoo
Answer: (A) Pahlaj Nihalani
Question: Which bank was ranked at highest place among Indian banks in the list of the Top 50 Most Valued Global Banks (in terms of market capitalization) that was released by Bloomberg on 17 January 2015?
(A) ICICI Bank
(B) SBI
(C) Axis BAnk
(D) HDFC Bank
Answer: (D) HDFC Bank
Question: South African cricketer AB de Villiers has hit the fastest century in ODI history on 18 January 2015 and broke whose previous record?
(A) Shahid Afridi
(B) Corey Anderson
(C) Sanath Jayasurya
(D) Chris Gayle
Answer: (B) Corey Anderson
Question: Name the Union Minister of Tribal Affairs who recently inaugurated the Tribal Food Festival-2015 in New Delhi?
(A) Anant Geete
(B) Nitin Gadkari
(C) Harsh Vardhan
(D) Jual Oram
Answer: (D) Jual Oram
Question: Who won Hindu Literary Prize 2014 for his debut collection of 13 short stories, Book of Common Signs on 17 January 2015?
(A) Ashok Srinivasan
(B) Jerry Pinto
(C) Anees Salim
(D) Manu Joseph
Answer: (A) Ashok Srinivasan
Question: Government on 16 January 2015 approved raising buffer stock and strategic reserve limits of Food Corporation of India for both wheat and rice.  Government had last changed the buffer norms in which year?
(A) 2003
(B) 2011
(D) 2009
(D) 2005
Answer: (D) 2005
Question: 24 Children, including 8 girls were selected for National Bravery Awards 2014 on 17 January 2015. The award was instituted in which year?
(A) 1947
(B) 1957
(C) 1951
(D) 1964
Answer: (B) 1957
Question: National Immunization Day for the year 2015 was recently observed on?
(A) 17 January
(B) 16 January
(C) 18 January
(D) 19 January
Answer: (C) 18 January
Question: First indigenously-built Light Combat Aircraft Tejas was handed over to Indian Air Force by Defence Minister Manohar Parikkar on 18 January 2015. Tejas was developed by?
(A) Mahindra Aerospace
(B) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
(C) Ashok Leyland
(D) Raj Hamsa Ultralights
Answer: (B) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Question: Biopic movie ‘The Theory of Everything’ which was released in India on 16 January 2015 is based on the life of which iconic physicist?
(A) Albert Einstein
(B) C.V Raman
(C) Enrico Fermi
(D) Stephen Hawking
Answer: (D) Stephen Hawking
Question: Sania Mirza along with whom recently won Sydney International Tennis Tournament?
(A) Bethanie Mattek-Sands
(B) Abigail Spears
(C) Raquel Kops-Jones
(D) Bruno Soares
Answer: (A) Bethanie Mattek-Sands
Question: Country's first woman IPS officer, Kiran Bedi recently joined which political party?
(A) Bharatiya Janata Party
(B) Aam Aadmi Party
(C) Indian National Congress
(D) Trinamool Congress
Answer: (A) Bharatiya Janata Party
Question: Who was appointed as the Indian men's football team head coach on 16 January 2015?
(A) Roelant Oltmans
(B) Wim Koevermans
(C) Stephen Constantine
(D) Ricky Herbert
Answer: (C) Stephen Constantine
Question: Controversial book on Sonia Gandhi 'The Red Saree' is set to be released in India by Roli Books soon. The book was first published in Spanish with the title 'El Sari Rojo' in which year?
(A) 2008
(B) 2010
(C) 2004
(D) 2014
Answer: (A) 2008
Question: Army Day was recently observed on?
(A) 11 January
(B) 13 January
(C) 15 January
(D) 17 January
Answer: (C) 15 January
Question: Microsoft on 15 January 2015 suspended "mainstream support" of its which popular operating system, meaning neither new features nor free help will be given to users using this OS?
(A) Widows 8
(B) Windows 7
(C) Windows Vista
(D) Windows XP
Answer: (B) Windows 7
Question: Which state government on 15 January 2015 lifted the 17-year-old ban on consumption of liquor in the state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Karnataka
(C) Gujarat
(D) Mizoram
Answer: (D) Mizoram
Question: RBI on 15 January 2015 decided to cut the benchmark interest rate (Repo Rate) by 0.25 per cent to ___ per cent with a view to boost growth?
(A) 8%
(B) 7.75%
(C) 7.50%
(D) 7%
Answer: (B) 7.75%
Question: Which Australian cricket player has announced his retirement from all the formats of game, ending a 20-year long career on 15 January 2015?
(A) Adam Gilchrist
(B) Ricky Ponting
(C) Brett Lee
(D) Shane Warne
Answer: (C) Brett Lee
Question: What is the name of the world’s newest jetliner that took to the skies on 15 January 2015?
(A) Airbus A350
(B) Airbus A525
(C) Boeing 747
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Airbus A350
Question: Which state government has recently appointed Baba Ramdev as its brand ambassador?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Madhya Pradesh
(C) Jharkhand
(D) Haryana
Answer: (D) Haryana
Question: Anupam Shrivastava was recently appointed as the CMD of?
(A) BSNL
(B) Coal India Ltd
(C) Air India
(D) Niti Ayog
Answer: (A) BSNL
Question: Who among the following resigned as Chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on 16 January 2015?
(A) Shaji N Karun
(B) Leela Samson
(C) Ira Bhaskar
(D) Isha Sharwani
Answer: (B) Leela Samson
Question: Samsung launched Z1, its first smartphone running on its own operating system named ___ in India on 14 January 2015?
(A) Bolt
(B) MeeGo
(C) Tizen
(D) Palm
Answer: (C) Tizen
Question: Amid concerns over turning yellow due to increasing pollution, the district administration has recently banned burning of cow dung cakes near which historical monument in Delhi?
(A) Rashtrapathi Bhavan
(B) Jantar Mantar
(C) Red Fort
(D) Taj Mahal
Answer: (D) Taj Mahal
Question: Name the Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation who inaugurated the India Water Week – 2015 recently with the theme “Water Management for Sustainable Development"?
(A) Uma Bharti
(B) Ram Vilas Paswan
(C) Maneka Gandhi
(D) Smrithi Zubin Irani
Answer: (A) Uma Bharti
Question: Who took over as Director General Air Operations at the Air Headquarters on 13 January 2015?
(A) Air Marshal Anil Khosla
(B) Air Marshal Anoop Kumar
(C) Air Marshal Vikram Singh
(D) Air Marshal Sandeep Thyagi
Answer: (A) Air Marshal Anil Khosla
Question: Which search engine launched its flight search tool in India on 13 January 2015, that allows users to find and compare airfares online and book tickets directly?
(A) Yahoo
(B) Google
(C) Bing
(D) Ask
Answer: (B) Google
Question: Who among the following on 13 January 2015 took charge as the first vice-chairman of the newly-created NITI Aayog?
(A) V. K. Saraswat
(B) Bibek Debroy
(C) Sindhushree Khullar
(D) Arvind Panagariya
Answer: (D) Arvind Panagariya
Question: Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has recently flagged off the first CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) based two trains from Rewari station in which state?
(A) Bihar
(B) Jammu and Kashmir
(C) Haryana
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (C) Haryana
Question: Indian Space Research Organisation was recently conferred 'Space Pioneer Award' by the National Space Society (NSS) of which country over the historic feat on successfully sending an orbit to Martian atmosphere in its very first attempt?
(A) France
(B) European Union
(C) China
(D) USA
Answer: (D) USA
Question: Microsoft has recently tied up with which telecom company for enabling the telco's 34 million data users to purchases apps and pay for them through monthly bills or prepaid balances?
(A) Idea
(B) Airtel
(C) Aircel
(D) Vodafone
Answer: (A) Idea
Question: Name the Director General of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), who was sacked from his post on 13 January 2015 by Union Government?
(A) GS Malik
(B) Avinash Chander
(C) N Prabhakar
(D) Satish Kumar
Answer: (B) Avinash Chander
Question: RBI on 3 January 2015 has relaxed KYC rules for Non-Banking Financial Companies. As per the relaxed rules, KYC exercise will be required to be done for high-risk individuals and entities in at least how many years?
(A) 2 years
(B) 1 year
(C) 3 years
(D) 5 years
Answer: (A) 2 years
Question: Who was elected as President of the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) for 2014-15 on 2 January 2015?
(A) Kiran Bhai Vadodaria
(B) PV Chandran
(C) Ravindra Kumar
(D) Mamen Mathew
Answer: (A) Kiran Bhai Vadodaria
Question: A two-day banking retreat to discuss the new initiatives for banking industry was recently held at?
(A) Kochi, Kerala
(B) Pune, Maharashtra
(C) Ahemadabad, Gujarat
(D) Panaji, Goa
Answer: (B) Pune, Maharashtra
Question: Bikaner’s camel festival, described by travel guide Lonely Planet as the third best fair in the world, is set to begin on 4 Jan 2015. Bikaner is in which state?
(A) Punjab
(B) Haryana
(C) Bihar
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (D) Rajasthan
Question: Aamir Khan's film PK has recently surpassed the collections of which film to become highest Bollywood grosser ever in two weeks post its release?
(A) Dhoom 3
(B) Chennai Express
(C) 3 Idiots
(D) 2 States
Answer: (A) Dhoom 3
Question: Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) deputy governor Shyamala Gopinath was on 2 January 2015 appointed as the non-executive chairperson of which bank?
(A) Canara Bank
(B) ICICI Bank
(C) HDFC Bank
(D) Axis Bank
Answer: (C) HDFC Bank
Question: Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on 3 January 2015 inaugurated the ___ edition of the Indian Science Congress at Mumbai?
(A) 102nd
(B) 100th
(C) 125th
(D) 112th
Answer: (A) 102nd
Question: Kumar Sangakkara on 3 January 2015 has broken whose record to become the fastest to reach 12,000 Test runs?
(A) Vivian Richards
(B) Rickey Ponting
(C) Sachin Tendulkar
(D) Both B & C
Answer: (D) Both B & C
Question: R Koteeswaran has recently taken charge as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of which bank?
(A) Union Bank of India
(B) Indian Bank
(C) Vijaya Bank
(D) Indian Overseas Bank
Answer: (D) Indian Overseas Bank
Question: Government has recently decided to accept the recommendations of the Bezbaruah Committee that was set up to look into the safety and security of people from North East India. In which year Bezbaruah Committee was set up?
(A) November 2013
(B) February 2014
(C) July 2014
(D) December 2011
Answer: (B) February 2014
Question: Habib Essid was nominated as the new Prime Minister of which country recently?
(A) Tunisia
(B) Sudan
(C) Kenya
(D) Vietnam
Answer: (A) Tunisia
Question: Union Cabinet on 5 January 2015 approved the largest ever telecom spectrum auction which will cover?
(A) 4G
(B) 2G
(C) 3G
(D) All of these
Answer: (B) 2G
Question: New age e-passports are expected to be rolled out in the country by which year as announced recently?
(A) 2019
(B) 2022
(C) 2018
(D) 2016
Answer: (D) 2016
Question: Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir was on 5 January 2015 appointed as the Chief Justice of which high court?
(A) Jammu & Kashmir
(B) Kerala
(C) Karnataka
(D) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: (A) Jammu & Kashmir
Question: Which city will host the International Hindi Conference in April 2015 with the theme of "Expanding World of Hindi: Possibilities and Challenges"?
(A) Tel Aviv
(B) Brisbane
(C) New Jersey
(D) Brussels
Answer: (C) New Jersey
Question: Sports Ministry has recommended whose name for Padma Bhushan on 05 January 2015?
(A) Sushil Kumar
(B) Vijendar Singh
(C) PV Sindhu
(D) Saina Nehwal
Answer: (D) Saina Nehwal
Question: Upendra Trivedi who passed away on 4 January 2015 was a renowned actor of stage and cinema in?
(A) Malayalam
(B) Gujarati
(C) Kannada
(D) Marathi 
Answer: (B) Gujarati
Question: Who among the following was on 5 January 2015 named vice-chairman of Niti Aayog, an institution that came into being on January 1 and replaced the 65-year old Planning Commission?
(A) Arvind Panagariya
(B) Bibek Debroy
(C) VK Saraswat
(D) Radha Mohan Singh
Answer: (A) Arvind Panagariya
Question: Which Asian country celebrated its 67th Independence Day on 4 January 2015?
(A) Japan
(B) Myanmar
(C) Bhutan
(D) Nepal
Answer: (B) Myanmar
Question: Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara scored his 11th Test double century recently. Who is the only player above him holding the record of 12 double centuries in Test match cricket history?
(A) Sachin Tendulkar
(B) Mahela Jayawardene
(C) Don Bradman
(D) Brian Lara
Answer: (C) Don Bradman
Question: In humans, which protein transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of body?
(A) Lectin
(B) Keratin
(C) Collagen
(D) Hemoglobin
Answer: (D) Hemoglobin
Question: The Chinar tree is found in abundance in which state of India, where it is also the state tree?
(A) West Bengal
(B) Jammu and Kashmir
(C)  Kerala
(D) Uttar Prade
Answer: (B) Jammu and Kashmir
Question: The Indian Muslim League was founded in?
(A) 1902
(B) 1906
(C) 1909
(D) 1916
Answer: (B) 1906
Question: In 1943, who became the first Indian to be appointed as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
(A) C.D. Deshmukh
(B) K.G. Ambegaonkar
(C) Benegal Rama Rau
(D) H.V.R. Iyengar
Answer: (A) C.D. Deshmukh
Question: Sir Edmund Hillary served as which county’s high commissioner to India,Bangladesh and Nepal?
(A) Canada 
(B) Australia
(C) New Zealand
(D) United Kingdom
Answer: (C) New Zealand
Question: Which is the southernmost active volcano in the world?
(A) Mt. Etna
(B) Mt Bromo
(C) Mt Yasur
(D) Mt. Erebus
Answer: (D) Mt. Erebus
Question: 'Ek Tukda Dharti, Ek Tukda Aakash', a collection of poems, contains poems written by which former Prime Minister of India?
(A) Chandrashekhar
(B) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
(C) VP Singh
(D) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: (C) VP Singh
Question: Swaraj Party was formed after the failure of the which Movement?
(A) Quit India
(B) Non-Cooperation
(C) Civil Disobedience
(D) Swadeshi
Answer: (B) Non-Cooperation
Question: Who among the following was the chief guest at India's first Republic day celebrations in 1950?
(A) King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Bhutan
(B) Sukarno, President of Indonesia
(C) Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad, Pakistan
(D) Queen Elizabeth II, United Kingdom
Answer: (B) Sukarno, President of Indonesia
Question: The Sarkaria Commission was appointed?
(A) To examine center-state relations
(B) To examine the working of public sector undertakings
(C) To resolve the dispute regarding sharing of Cauveri waters
(D) To find a solution to the Punjab crisis 
Answer: (A) To examine center-state relations
Question: Trade unions of which among the following sector went on a five-day strike on 6 January 2015 in protest against disinvestment and restructuring?
(A) Insurance
(B) Railways
(C) Bank
(D) Coal
Answer: (D) Coal
Question: Keshari Nath Tripathi was sworn in as the Governor of which state on 6 January 2015?
(A) Meghalaya
(B) West Bengal
(C) Mizoram
(D) Sikkim

Answer: (A) Meghalaya
Question: A commemorative coin on which famous Indian industrialist was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 6 January 2015?
(A) Dhirubhai Ambani
(B) Jamsetji Tata
(C) Aditya Vikram Birla
(D) Walchand Hirachand
Answer: (B) Jamsetji Tata
Question: Union cabinet meeting has recently approved setting up of India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project in Bodi West Hills of which state?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Andhra Pradesh
(C) Tamil Nadu
(D) Kerala
Answer: (C) Tamil Nadu
Question: President Pranab Mukherjee has recently signed the ordinance that amend’s Citizenship Act, ___?
(A) 2013
(B) 1947
(C) 1955
(D) 2004
Answer: (C) 1955
Question: Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced Indian squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 on 6 January 2015. Who will captain the squad?
(A) M S Dhoni
(B) Virat Kohli
(C) Ishant Sharma
(D) Suresh Raina
Answer: (A) M S Dhoni
Question: Name the Union Minister of State for petroleum and natural gas, who on 5 January 2015 launched a scheme to provide new LPG connections to BPL families?
(A) Suresh Prabhu
(B) Harsh Vardhan
(C) Dharmendra Pradhan
(D) Jual Oram
Answer: (C) Dharmendra Pradhan
Question: Which state has recently become the first state in India, to completely ban the sale of loose cigarettes (even as single sticks) and loose tobacco?
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Punjab
(C) West Bengal
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (B) Punjab
Question: Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan was appointed as the brand ambassador for health sector of which state on 6 January 2015?
(A) Kerala
(B) Gujarat
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (D) Andhra Pradesh
Question: Who took charge as Coal India Limited’s full-time Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) on 5 January 2015?
(A) Praphul Patel
(B) Sutirtha Bhattacharya
(C) Sindhushree Khullar
(D) Meenakshi Sharma
Answer: (B) Sutirtha Bhattacharya
Question: Who is the author of the book “No Full Stops in India”?
(A) Nirad C. Choudhuri
(B) Mark Tully
(C) R.K. Narayan
(D) Ved Mehta
Answer: (B) Mark Tully
Question: Which article of the Indian constitution did Dr. B.R. Ambedekar term as the “Heart and should of the Indian constitution”?
(A)Article 356
(B)Article 32
(C)Article 14
(D)Article 19
Answer: (B)Article 32
Question: Which of these capital cities is located on the banks of a river with the same name as the city?
(A) Kathmandu
(B) Colombo
(C) Kabul
(D) Beijing
Answer: (C) Kabul
Question: Which glacier is the primary source of the river Ganga?
(A) Pindari
(B) Gangotri
(C) Siachen
(D) Godwin-Austen
Answer: (B) Gangotri
Question: Which was the first country to give women the right to vote in elections?
(A) Finland
(B) Norway
(C) Australia
(D) New Zealand
Answer: (D) New Zealand
Question: Whose birthday is celebrated as 'Engineers' Day' in India?
(A) M Visvesvarayya
(B) A P J Abdul Kalam
(C) John C. Gammon
(D) Soren Krisitian Toubro
Answer: (A) M Visvesvarayya
Question: What was the original name of renowned Hindi and Urdu writer Munshi Premchand?
(A) Raghupati Sahay
(B) Sampooran Singh Kalra
(C) Akhtar Hussain Rizvi
(D) Dhanpatrai Srivastava
Answer: (D) Dhanpatrai Srivastava
Question: Who is the first Indian Women to conquer the highest peak of all seven continent?
(A) Bachendri Pal
(B) Santosh Yadav
(C) Premlata Agrawal
(D) Sucheta Kandethankar
Answer: (C) Premlata Agrawal
Question: Who is the first Indian cricketer to take Hat Trick in Test Cricket?
(A) Harbhajan Singh
(B) Irfan Pathan
(C) Chetan Sharma
(D) Kapil Dev
Answer: (A) Harbhajan Singh
Question: Which scholar started the Mohammedan Anglo Oriental College which later became the Aligarh Muslim University?
(A) Maulana Mohomed Ali
(B) Muhammad Iqbal
(C) Syed Ahmad Khan 
(D) Dr Zakir Hussain
Answer: (C) Syed Ahmad Khan

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS FEBRUARY 2015 (150 Questions) 

Question: How many Indians were there in 100 shortlisted for one way trip to Mars recently?
(A) 1
(B) 2
(C) 3
(D) 4
Answer: (C) 3
Question: Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic was recently sworn in as the first female president of?
(A) Uruguay
(B) Poland
(C) Greece
(D) Croatia
Answer: (D) Croatia
Question: Which bank has recently launched India's FIRST Green Infrastructure Bonds?
(A) ICICI Bank
(B) Yes Bank
(C) Axis Bank
(D) South Indian Bank
Answer: (B) Yes Bank
Question: Rajinder Puri who died on 15 February 2015 was a famous?
(A) Cartoonist
(B) Historian
(C) Scientist
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Cartoonist
Question: India has ceremonially handed over to which country a vintage Dakota aircraft, which played a crucial role in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war?
(A) Maldives
(B) Nepal
(C) Thailand
(D) Bangladesh
Answer: (D) Bangladesh
Question: India-born Punit Renjen was on 16 February 2015 appointed the next chief executive of which US-based accounting giant, becoming the first person of Indian-origin to head a 'Big-Four' audit firm?
(A) McGladrey
(B) PwC
(C) Ernst & Young
(D) Deloitte
Answer: (D) Deloitte
Question: Which company on 16 February 2015, announced that it had signed a definitive agreement to fully acquire U.S.-based automation technology provider Panaya for an enterprise value of $200 million?
(A) Wipro
(B) TCS
(C) IBM
(D) Infosys
Answer: (D) Infosys
Question: Who won the Best Professional golfer of the year award at the Take Solutions India Golf Awards 2015 in New Delhi on 16 February 2015?
(A) Shiv Kapur
(B) Anirban Lahiri
(C) Gaganjeet Bhullar
(D) Arjun Atwal
Answer: (B) Anirban Lahiri
Question: Yuvraj Singh was bought by which franchise for a whopping sum of Rs 16 crores in the IPL 2015 auction held on 16 February 2015?
(A) Kings XI Punjab
(B) Bangalore Royal Challengers
(C) Delhi Daredevils
(D) Rajasthan Royals
Answer: (C) Delhi Daredevils
Question: India on 16 February 2015 inked a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with which among the following countries?
(A) Srilanka
(B) Brazil
(C) Nepal
(D) Cuba
Answer: (A) Srilanka
Question: Which bank recently started Tech Learning Centres to promote tech-banking?
(A) ICICI Bank
(B) Yes Bank
(C) SBI
(D) Axis Bank
Answer: (C) SBI
Question: India's longest running movie _______ ended its marathon run at Mumbai's Maratha Mandir cinema after almost 20 years recently?
(A) Deewana
(B) Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
(C) Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
(D) Devdas
Answer: (B) Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Question: Which among the following process began on 19 February 2015 with the ritual 'halwa ceremony'?
(A) Printing of Budget 2015
(B) Printing of Rail Budget 2015
(C) Printing of Economic Survey 2015
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Printing of Budget 2015
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 February 2015 launched the nationwide Soil Health Card Scheme in Suratgarh town of Sriganganagar district of which state?
(A) Haryana
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Punjab
(D) Uttar Pradesh
Answer: (B) Rajasthan
Question: Which Airport in India has been adjudged the best, among the world's most performing airports in the 25-40 million passengers per annum category by the Airport Council International (ACI) recently?
(A) Indira Gandhi International Airport, NewDelhi
(B) Trivandrum International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram
(C) Chennai International Airport, Chennai
(D) Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
Answer: (A) Indira Gandhi International Airport, NewDelhi
Question: Which mobile company has recently partnered with UNICEF to provide health, education and youth-focussed content to its customers in 17 African countries?
(A) Reliance
(B) Airtel
(C) Idea
(D) Vodafone
Answer: (B) Airtel
Question: Which E-Commerce company has recently acquired luxury fashion portal Exclusively.com for an undisclosed amount?
(A) Flipkart
(B) Snapdeal
(C) Shopclues
(D) Myntra
Answer: (B) Snapdeal
Question: For the first time, which among the following secretary has been recently made a member of the Space Commission?
(A) Finance Secretary
(B) Home Secretary
(C) Defence Secretary
(D) Foreign Secretary
Answer: (D) Foreign Secretary
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 18 February 2015 inaugurated Aero India 2015 at?
(A) Bengaluru
(B) Kolkata
(C) Kochi
(D) Delhi
Answer: (A) Bengaluru
Question: Which former India cricket captain has been recently awarded an honorary life membership to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC)?
(A) Sunil Gavaskar
(B) Sachin Tendulkar
(C) Sourav Ganguly
(D) Kapil Dev
Answer: (C) Sourav Ganguly
Question: World Thinking Day was celebrated annually on?
(A) February 20
(B) February 21
(C) February 22
(D) February 19
Answer: (C) February 22
Question: Competition Commission of India (CCI) on 20 February 2015 gave its approval for the merger between Kotak Mahindra Bank and?
(A) TamilNadu Mercantile Bank
(B) ING Vysya Bank
(C) South Indian Bank
(D) Vijayalakshmi Bank
Answer: (B) ING Vysya Bank
Question: GARUDA SHAKTI-III which concluded recently was the joint exercises between armies of India and?
(A) Nepal
(B) Bhutan
(C) Srilanka
(D) Indonesia
Answer: (D) Indonesia
Question: Government recently launched an Online Portal named _____ to redress Consular Grievances of Indian citizens living abroad?
(A) Seva
(B) Madad
(C) Prerita
(D) Salaha
Answer: (B) Madad
Question: Major General Chrishantha de Silva was on 20 February 2015 appointed as the new Army Chief of which country?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) Maldives
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Nepal
Answer: (C) Sri Lanka
Question: Who was adjudged the Man of the Match in the World Cup group match game in which India defeated South Africa by 130 runs recently?
(A) Virat Kohli
(B) Ravichandran Ashwin
(C) Ajinkya Rahane
(D) Shikhar Dhawan
Answer: (D) Shikhar Dhawan
Question: International Mother Language Day was recently observed on?
(A) 21 February
(B) 22 February
(C) 25 February
(D) 14 February
Answer: (A) 21 February
Question: As per recent reports, Dilip Shanghvi overtook Mukesh Ambani as the richest Indian in terms of market value. He is the founder and MD of?
(A) Cipla
(B) Sun Pharma
(C) Glaxosmithkline
(D) Hindustan Unilever
Answer: (B) Sun Pharma
Question: Who took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for the fourth time on 22 February 2015?
(A) Jitan Ram Manjhi
(B) Rabri Devi
(C) Lalu Prasad Yadav
(D) Nitish Kumar
Answer: (D) Nitish Kumar
Question: Which team won the Hockey India League 2015?
(A) Ranchi Rays
(B) Punjab Warriors
(C) Delhi Wave Riders
(D) Dabang Mumbai 
Answer: (A) Ranchi Rays
Question: Who is the director of the movie'Dhanak' that was honoured at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival recently?
(A) Nagesh Kukunoor
(B) Ritesh Batra
(C) Geetu Mohandas
(D) Anurag Basu
Answer: (A) Nagesh Kukunoor
Question: Who recently became the first ever Indian cricketer to score a hundred in the ICC World Cup match against Pakistan?
(A) Rohit Sharma
(B) Virat Kohli
(C) Suresh Raina
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) Virat Kohli
Question: Which state was felicitated for emerging as one of the best performing states in the renewable energy segment, during the Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet (RE-Invest) held in New Delhi recently?
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Kerala
(C) Chhattisgarh
(D) Assam 
Answer: (C) Chhattisgarh
Question: China has recently opened its largest overseas embassy in which country?
(A) India
(B) Srilanka
(C) Bhutan
(D) Pakistan
Answer: (D) Pakistan
Question: India on 15 February 2015 defeated Pakistan in the ICC World Cup Cricket 2015, thus securing its sixth consecutive World Cup game win against Pakistan. Who was adjudged the Man of the Match?
(A) Virat Kohli
(B) Suresh Raina
(C) Mohammed Shami
(D) Shikhar Dhawan
Answer: (A) Virat Kohli
Question: Sunil Chhetri was on 15 February 2015 presented with 2014 AIFF Player of the Year award(male). Who won the award for the female player?
(A) Kamala Devi
(B) Bala Devi
(C) Dangmei Grace
(D) Roshini Devi
Answer: (B) Bala Devi
Question: What was India's rank in World Press Freedom Index 2015 released recently?
(A) 180
(B) 54
(C) 105
(D) 136
Answer: (D) 136
Question: Which company on 13 February 2015 appointed Ashish Agrawal as its new Chief Technology Officer?
(A) Samsung
(B) Micromax Informatics
(C) Dell India
(D) Motorola Mobility
Answer: (B) Micromax Informatics
Question: Balasubramaniam Venkataramani was on 13 February 2015 appointed as new MD & CEO of?
(A) National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange
(B) Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
(C) Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)
(D) Ace Derivatives and Commodity Exchange
Answer: (C) Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)
Question: Who was recently confirmed by the US Senate as the next American Defence Secretary?
(A) Ashton Carter
(B) Chuck Hagel
(C) Leon Panetta
(D) Robert M. Gates
Answer: (A) Ashton Carter
Question: ICGS Amogh was commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard at Paradip Port on 7 February 2015. Paradip Port is located in which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Odisha
(C) Goa
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (B) Odisha
Question: Government has recently decided to infuse Rs 6,990 crore in nine public sector banks. Which bank will lead the pack with a capitalization of Rs 2,970 crore?
(A) Bank of Baroda
(B) Punjab National Bank
(C) Canara Bank
(D) State Bank of India
Answer: (D) State Bank of India
Question: India's senior-most pacer Ishant Sharma was on 7 February 2015 ruled out of the Cricket World Cup owing to a knee injury. Who will replace him in the squad?
(A) Ashok Dinda
(B) Praveen Kumar
(C) Mohit Sharma
(D) Zaheer Khan
Answer: (C) Mohit Sharma
Question: An oil painting of two Tahitian girls by prominent French artist Paul Gauguin was recently sold for nearly 300 million dollars, making it the most expensive work of art ever sold. Gauguin painted this one which year?
(A) 1892
(B) 1921
(C) 1857
(D) 1806
Answer: (A) 1892
Question: ICC cleared bowling action of which Pakistan off-spinner on 7 February 2015?
(A) Saeed Ajmal
(B) Mohammed Hafeez
(C) Nasir Jamshed
(D) Wahab Riaz
Answer: (A) Saeed Ajmal
Question: Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) on 7 February 2015 successfully tested the second prototype of naval variant of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas at?
(A) Odisha
(B) Bengaluru
(C) Kochi
(D) Vishakapatanam 
Answer: (B) Bengaluru
Question: Atmaram Bhende who passed away on 7 February 2015 was a famous?
(A) Music Director
(B) Historian
(C) Film Maker
(D) Theatre Artiste
Answer: (D) Theatre Artiste
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7 Feb 2015 unveiled “Transformation", a memorial in commemoration of those Indian government officers and personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty while serving abroad. It is situated at?
(A) Ahemedabad
(B) Allahabad
(C) New Delhi
(D) Varanasi
Answer: (C) New Delhi
Question: JD(U) has recently sacked Jitan Ram Manjhi from the party. He is presently the Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Mizoram
(C) Odisha
(D) Bihar
Answer: (D) Bihar
Question: Which state government on 7 February 2015 officially declared Valentine’s Day as Matru-Pitru Divas (Parents’ Day)?
(A) Chhattisgarh
(B) Haryana
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Jharkhand
Answer: (A) Chhattisgarh
Question: World Wetlands Day was observed on 2 February 2015. What was the theme for the day this year?
(A) Wetlands for our future
(B) Wetlands and Water Management
(C) Wetlands and Agriculture
(D) Wetland Tourism- A Great Experience
Answer: (A) Wetlands for our future
Question: Which space agency has recently launched Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite to observe soil moisture?
(A) European Union
(B) ISRO
(C) NASA
(D) China National Space Administration
Answer: (C) NASA
Question: Richard von Weizsaecker who passed away on 31 January 2015 was the former President of?
(A) Germany
(B) Egypt
(C) Canada
(D) Belgium
Answer: (A) Germany
Question: Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad was on 7 February 2015 re-elected as a Rajya Sabha member from which state?
(A) Uttar Pradesh
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: (D) Jammu and Kashmir
Question: Which state registered a record voter turnout in the assembly polls held on 7 February 2015?
(A) Haryana
(B) Jammu & Kashmir
(C) Delhi
(D) Goa
Answer: (C) Delhi
Question: The 10th edition of India-Mongolia Joint Military Training Exercise concluded on 6 February 2015. This exercise was held at?
(A) Gwalior
(B) Kochi
(C) Dehradun
(D) Pune
Answer: (A) Gwalior
Question: Which mobile manufacturer has recently appointed Shubhajit Sen as its chief marketing officer (CMO)?
(A) Samsung
(B) Micromax
(C) Motorola
(D) Lava
Answer: (B) Micromax
Question: Microblogging site Twitter Inc has recently reached a deal with which search engine to make its tweets more searchable online, according to reports?
(A) Yahoo
(B) Bing
(C) Ask
(D) Google
Answer: (D) Google
Question: Zoe Konstantopoulou was selected as the youngest President of which country's Parliament on 6 February 2015?
(A) Greece
(B) Canada
(C) Italy
(D) France
Answer: (A) Greece
Question: First meeting of the newly formed NITI Aayog was held on 6 February 2015. In the meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took views of _____ to boost growth?
(A) Chief Ministers
(B) Bureaucrats
(C) Economists
(D) Governors 
Answer: (C) Economists
Question: Mrinalini Mukherjee passed away in New Delhi on 2 February 2015 was a noted?
(A) Academician
(B) Bureaucrat
(C) Historian
(D) Sculptor
Answer: (D) Sculptor
Question: Government set to launch its own brand to sell low cost generic medicines from July 1 under the name?
(A) 'Jan Raksha'
(B) 'Jan Aushadhi'
(C) 'Jan Arogya'
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) 'Jan Aushadhi'
Question: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 3 February 2014 released its 6th Bi-monthly Monetary Review. RBI reduced the statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) of scheduled commercial banks by 50 basis points to?
(A) 21.5%
(B) 7.75%
(C) 22.0%
(D) 6.75%
Answer: (A) 21.5%
Question: Which state government on 3 February 2015 decided to provide free education to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST) and girl students till Post Graduation (PG) level in the state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Madhya Pradesh
(C) Bihar
(D) Jharkhand
Answer: (C) Bihar
Question: Who will chair the RBI External Advisory Committee (EAC) to evaluate applications received for payment banks as announced on 3 Feb 2015?
(A) Raghuram Rajan
(B) D Subbarao
(C) Y V Reddy
(D) Nachiket Mor
Answer: (D) Nachiket Mor
Question: Which country is set to become the first country to introduce laws to allow the creation of babies from three people?
(A) France
(B) UK
(C) Canada
(D) Australia
Answer: (B) UK
Question: RBI on 3 February 2015 doubled the amount of foreign exchange that an individual can remit in a year under a scheme that allows asset purchase outside India. An individual can now remit up to ____ a year under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme?
(A) $250,000
(B) $250,00
(C) $250,0
(D) $250
Answer: (A) $250,000
Question: 12 year old, Saloni Dalal of which state became the youngest medal winner in the ongoing 35th National Games in Kerala on 3 February 2015?
(A) Kerala
(B) Mizoram
(C) Karnataka
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (C) Karnataka
Question: Who won the Best Actor (Female) award at the 60th Filmfare Awards announced recently?
(A) Anushka Sharma
(B) Alia Bhatt
(C) Kareena Kapoor
(D) Kangana Ranaut
Answer: (D) Kangana Ranaut
Question: Who will chair the External Advisory Committee (EAC) of RBI to evaluate applications received for small finance banks, as announced recently?
(A) Bimal Jalan
(B) Usha Thorat
(C) R Gandhi
(D) Shyamala Gopinath 
Answer: (B) Usha Thorat
Question: Which handset company overtook South Korea's Samsung Electronics to become the leading supplier in India's booming smartphone market for the first time in the fourth quarter as per report of research firm Canalys?
(A) Motorola
(B) Apple
(C) Sony
(D) Micromax
Answer: (D) Micromax
Question: India was ranked second last in the intellectual property (IP) index released by the US Chamber of Commerce on 4 February 2015. Which country was ranked No.1 in the list?
(A) Singapore
(B) USA
(C) Thailand
(D) Russia
Answer: (B) USA
Question: Who was recently named the most admired woman in the world as per a poll over 23 countries conducted by YouGov?
(A) Hillary Clinton
(B) Queen Elizabeth II
(C) Angelina Jolie
(D) Malala Yousafzai
Answer: (C) Angelina Jolie
Question: Reliance Industries has recently teamed up with which nationalized bank to apply for a payments bank licence?
(A) Punjab National Bank
(B) Union Bank of India
(C) Indian Bank
(D) State Bank of India 
Answer: (D) State Bank of India
Question: World squash champion Nicol David has recently set a new record for topping the world rankings when she secured top spot for the 106th month. Nicol David is from which country?
(A)Egypt
(B) China
(C) Malaysia
(D) Russia
Answer: (C) Malaysia
Question: Name the Journalist-writer Hindol Sengupta's book on entrepreneurial ventures in India which has been shortlisted for the US' prestigious Hayek Prize this year, recently?
(A) Recasting India: How Entrepreneurship is Revolutionizing the World's Largest Democracy
(B) The Forgotten Depression: The Crash that Cured Itself
(C) The Rule of Nobody: Saving India from Dead Laws and Broken Government
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Recasting India: How Entrepreneurship is Revolutionizing the World's Largest Democracy
Question: Which neighboring country of India celebrated its 67th Independence Day on 4 February 2015?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) China
(C) Nepal
(D) Sri Lanka
Answer: (D) Sri Lanka
Question: World Cancer Day was recently observed on?
(A) February 4
(B) January 27
(C) February 3
(D) February 5
Answer: (A) February 4
Question: Who was on 4 February 2015 appointed as the new home secretary?
(A) Anil Goswami
(B) G.K Pillai
(C) L.C. Goyal
(D) Subham Goswami
Answer: (C) L.C. Goyal
Question: Alibaba, the world's biggest and most valuable ecommerce firm, recently entered India's e-commerce space with 25% stake in?
(A) Myntra
(B) Paytm
(C) Shopclues
(D) Flipkart
Answer: (B) Paytm
Question: Bank of Maharashtra has recently launched its new mobile banking app named?
(A) MahaBank
(B) MahaMobile
(C) OnlineMaha
(D) MahaFreedom
Answer: (B) MahaMobile
Question: Roopa Kudva, the managing director of ratings company CRISIL was recently appointed as an independent board member of?
(A) Wipro
(B) Accenture
(C) TCS
(D) Infosys
Answer: (D) Infosys
Question: Which player was recently voted as the greatest ever player to have played in the English Premier League (EPL)?
(A) Cristiano Ronaldo
(B) Steven Gerrard
(C) Thierry Henry
(D) Ryan Giggs
Answer: (A) Cristiano Ronaldo
Question: Who was appointed as the Director General of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) on 5 January 2015?
(A) Raghunath A. Mashelkar
(B) M. K. Bhan
(C) M.O. Garg
(D) Samir K. Brahmachari
Answer: (C) M.O. Garg
Question: Which city has become India's first fully WiFi-enabled metro city on 5 February 2015?
(A) Mumbai
(B) Kolkata
(C) Chennai
(D) Delhi
Answer: (B) Kolkata
Question: R.K. Gupta was recently moved out by government as the director of?
(A) Agni 5 Project
(B) DRDO
(C) Home Ministry
(D) Tejas Project 
Answer: (A) Agni 5 Project
Question: Which Bank on 5 February 2015 raised Rs 9,880 crore in the largest share sale in the secondary market by a private entity to overseas and domestic investors?
(A) ICICI Bank
(B) Kotak Mahindra Bank
(C) HDFC
(D) SBI
Answer: (C) HDFC
Question: Who was on 5 February 2015 named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014, who pioneered the development of affordable life-saving vaccines?
(A) Uday Kotak
(B) Arundhati Bhattacharya
(C) K. Radhakrishnan
(D) Cyrus S. Poonawalla
Answer: (D) Cyrus S. Poonawalla
Question: BCCI on 5 February 2015 has cleared which Indian left-arm spinner to play in first-class games with immediate effect, after his bowling action is found to be permissible
(A) Ravindra Jadeja
(B) Axar Patel
(C) Pragyan Ojha
(D) Ravichandran Ashwin
Answer: (C) Pragyan Ojha
Question: Bhalchandra Nemade who has been selected for the 50th Jnanpith Award for 2014, on 6 February 2015, is a famous writer in which language?
(A) Marathi
(B) Oriya
(C) Malayalam
(D) Urdu
Answer: (A) Marathi
Question: ICGS Amogh was commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard at Paradip Port on 7 February 2015. Paradip Port is located in which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Odisha
(C) Goa
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (B) Odisha
Question: Government has recently decided to infuse Rs 6,990 crore in nine public sector banks. Which bank will lead the pack with a capitalization of Rs 2,970 crore?
(A) Bank of Baroda
(B) Punjab National Bank
(C) Canara Bank
(D) State Bank of India
Answer: (D) State Bank of India
Question: India's senior-most pacer Ishant Sharma was on 7 February 2015 ruled out of the Cricket World Cup owing to a knee injury. Who will replace him in the squad?
(A) Ashok Dinda
(B) Praveen Kumar
(C) Mohit Sharma
(D) Zaheer Khan
Answer: (C) Mohit Sharma
Question: An oil painting of two Tahitian girls by prominent French artist Paul Gauguin was recently sold for nearly 300 million dollars, making it the most expensive work of art ever sold. Gauguin painted this one which year?
(A) 1892
(B) 1921
(C) 1857
(D) 1806
Answer: (A) 1892
Question: ICC cleared bowling action of which Pakistan off-spinner on 7 February 2015?
(A) Saeed Ajmal
(B) Mohammed Hafeez
(C) Nasir Jamshed
(D) Wahab Riaz
Answer: (A) Saeed Ajmal
Question: Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) on 7 February 2015 successfully tested the second prototype of naval variant of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas at?
(A) Odisha
(B) Bengaluru
(C) Kochi
(D) Vishakapatanam 
Answer: (B) Bengaluru
Question: Atmaram Bhende who passed away on 7 February 2015 was a famous?
(A) Music Director
(B) Historian
(C) Film Maker
(D) Theatre Artiste
Answer: (D) Theatre Artiste
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7 Feb 2015 unveiled “Transformation", a memorial in commemoration of those Indian government officers and personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty while serving abroad. It is situated at?
(A) Ahemedabad
(B) Allahabad
(C) New Delhi
(D) Varanasi
Answer: (C) New Delhi
Question: JD(U) has recently sacked Jitan Ram Manjhi from the party. He is presently the Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Mizoram
(C) Odisha
(D) Bihar
Answer: (D) Bihar
Question: Which state government on 7 February 2015 officially declared Valentine’s Day as Matru-Pitru Divas (Parents’ Day)?
(A) Chhattisgarh
(B) Haryana
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Jharkhand
Answer: (A) Chhattisgarh
Question: Government on 9 February 2015 gave additional charge of Managing Director and CEO of which bank to Gauri Shankar, who is the senior most executive director at the bank?
(A) Union Bank of India
(B) Punjab National Bank
(C) Bank of Baroda
(D) Indian Overseas Bank
Answer: (B) Punjab National Bank
Question: Which state is set to roll out Information Technology Mass Literacy Scheme or “Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan”, to make the people of the state digitally literate?
(A) Haryana
(B) Gujarat
(C) Andhra Pradesh
(D) West Bengal 
Answer: (A) Haryana
Question: Which Indian golfer on 8 February 2015 won the Malaysian Open 2015?
(A) Gaganjeet Bhullar
(B) Chinnaswamy Muniyappa
(C) Anirban Lahiri
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) Anirban Lahiri
Question: Damyant Singh was recently appointed as the Brand Director of?
(A) Puma India
(B) Adidas India
(C) Yonex India
(D) Max India
Answer: (B) Adidas India
Question: Which state won the gold medal at the National Games men's football, final of which was played on 9 February 2015?
(A) Kerala
(B) Punjab
(C) Goa
(D) Mizoram
Answer: (D) Mizoram
Question: PM chaired first meeting of Governing Council of NITI Aayog on 8 February 2015. PM used to the term “Team India” in this meeting for describing a combination of three vital teams in the structure of NITI Aayog. Which among the following is not among them?
(A) The Prime Minister and Chief Ministers
(B) Special Invitees of NITI Aayog
(C) The Union Council of Ministers
(D) the bureaucracy at the Centre and in States
Answer: (B) Special Invitees of NITI Aayog
Question: Rockefeller Foundation has recently announced the 100 Resilient Cities project with a $100 million commitment to build urban resilience worldwide. Which among the following Indian cities is not in the list?
(A) Bengaluru
(B) Chennai
(C) Thiruvananthapuram
(D) Surat
Answer: (C) Thiruvananthapuram
Question: Who was recently appointed as Chairman of Indraprastha Gas Limited?
(A) M Ravindran
(B) KK Gupta
(B) Piyush Goyal
(D) Mahendra Pradhan
Answer: (A) M Ravindran
Question: Naveen Chopra was on 9 February 2015 appointed as Chief Operating Officer of which telecom company?
(A) Aircel
(B) Docomo
(C) Vodafone
(D) Idea
Answer: (C) Vodafone
Question: First ever World Ocean Science Congress (WOSC) was recently held at?
(A) Tuticorin
(B) Visakhapatnam
(C) Mormugao
(D) Kochi
Answer: (D) Kochi
Question:  ___th edition of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) was presented on 9 February 2015?
(A) 68th
(B) 57th
(D) 65th
(D) 51st
Answer: (B) 57th
Question: Acclaimed Journalist Vinod Mehta was on February 9, 2015 awarded the Yash Bharti Samman 2015 by the government of?
(A) Madhya Pradesh
(B) Uttar Pradesh
(C) Himachal Pradesh
(D) Goa
Answer: (B) Uttar Pradesh
Question: Tony Tan Keng Yam who recently visited India was the president of which country?
(A) Singapore
(B) Malaysia
(C) Thailand
(D) Vitenam
Answer: (A) Singapore
Question: State-of-the-art, high capacity Cold Storage Plant for silkworm egg was recently inaugurated at?
(A) Kottayam
(B) Mussorie
(C) Mysuru
(D) Coimbatore
Answer: (C) Mysuru
Question: Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has made payment process for National Highways (NHs) related works and services more transparent, with the inauguration of a web based payment monitoring system on 9 February 2015. Name the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways who inaugurated this?
(A) Ashok Ghelot
(B) Suresh Prabhu
(C) Venkaih Naidu
(D) Nitin Gadkari
Answer: (D) Nitin Gadkari
Question: Indian's Ricky Kej (Musician) and activist Neela Vaswani recently won which International Award?
(A) BAFTA Awards
(B) Grammy Awards
(C) Oscar Awards
(D) Golden Globe Awards
Answer: (B) Grammy Awards
Question: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) scored a landslide victory in the Delhi Assembly elections on 10 February 2015 by winning how many seats in the 70 member assembly?
(A) 69
(B) 67
(C) 65
(D) 63
Answer: (B) 67
Question: Adani Enterprises on 9 February 2015 signed a pact with which state government to develop the country's largest solar park in the state with 10,000 MW capacity?
(A) TamilNadu
(B) Gujarat
(C) West Bengal
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (D) Rajasthan
Question: Which social networking site on 10 February 2015 announced a tie-up with Reliance Communications to launch Internet.org in India, that will allow users free access to basic mobile internet services?
(A) Twitter
(B) Instagram
(C) Facebook
(D) LinkedIn
Answer: (C) Facebook
Question: O.P. Jaisha who won gold by finishing first in the women’s 5,000m with a new Games Record time of 15:31.37, (previous 15:54.26 by Kavita Raut of Maharashtra in Ranchi 2011) in the 35th National Games recently, represents which state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Punjab
(C) Services
(D) Haryana
Answer: (A) Kerala
Question: Veteran actor Mala Aravindan who passed away on 28 January 2015 is from which industry?
(A) Malayalam
(B) Telugu
(C) Tamil
(D) Kannada
Answer: (A) Malayalam
Question: Which company reported quarterly profits of $18 billion on 27 January 2015 which is the largest profit in global corporate history?
(A) Microsoft
(B) Facebook
(C) Apple
(D) Google
Answer: (C) Apple
Question: Kalyan Singh took additional charge as Himachal Governor on 28 January 2015. He was originally the Governor of which state?
(A) Goa
(B) West Bengal
(C) Punjab
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (D) Rajasthan
Question: Which Messenger service has recently rolled out free voice-calling, a month after its first acquisition of a free calling app - Zip Phone?
(A) Whatsapp
(B) We Chat
(C) Hike
(D) Viber
Answer: (C) Hike
Question: Nation on 29 January 2015 paid rich tributes to ______, who was martyred in an encounter with militants a day after he got his gallantry award on Republic Day?
(A) Col. MN Rai
(B) Major Mukund Varadarajan
(C) Major Naik Neeraj Kumar Singh
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Col. MN Rai
Question: Who has assumed charge as the new Chairman and Managing Director of National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) recently?
(A) Rehman Khan
(B) Hanumanthu Purushotham
(C) DP Sinha
(D) Rohit Upadhyaya
Answer: (B) Hanumanthu Purushotham
Question: Shirani Bhandaranayake, who was reinstated by the new government led by President Maithiripala Sirisena on 28 January 2015, was the first woman Chief Justice of which country?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) Pakistan
(C) Srilanka
(D) Nepal
Answer: (C) Srilanka
Question: On 28 January 2015, nation paid tributes to which national martyr of freedom movement on his 150th birth anniversary?
(A) Mangal Panday
(B) Lala Lajpat Rai
(C) Subhash Chandra Bose
(D) Bhagath Singh
Answer: (B) Lala Lajpat Rai
Question: Which country was confirmed as the host for the 2016 Twenty20 World Cup recently?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) West Indies
(C) Australia
(D) India
Answer: (D) India
Question: Who among the following was appointed as the new chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi on 29 January 2015?
(A) Shekhar Sen
(B) N Gopalaswami
(C) Leela Samson
(D) S Jayasankar
Answer: (A) Shekhar Sen
Question: Reserve Bank on 30 January 2015 constituted a high-powered panel to re-examine and recommend appropriate set of businesses, size, conversion and licensing terms for the urban cooperative banking sector. Who is the chairman of the committee?
(A) V K Saraswat
(B) R Gandhi
(C) Bimal Jalan
(D) Shyamala Gopinath
Answer: (B) R Gandhi [He is the RBI deputy Governor]
Question: Minister for Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu, recently flagged off four Express trains from Bengaluru remotely through which service of RailTel, a PSU of Railways?
(A) Telepresence
(B) Multiflagger
(C) Symbolgic
(D) Train Connect
Answer: (A) Telepresence
Question: Anti-Leprosy Day was observed recently on?
(A) 28 January
(B) 29 January
(C) 30 January
(D) 31 January
Answer: (C) 30 January
Question: Jayanthi Natarajan who quitted Congress Party on 30 January 2015 was the Union Minister of _____ in previous UPA government?
(A) Information & Broadcasting
(B) Environment and Forest
(C) Water Resources
(D) Chemical & Fertilizers
Answer: (B) Environment and Forest
Question: Union Govt. recently sold its 10% stake in which company, becoming the biggest ever share sale by any private or public sector company in India?
(A) Bharat Earth Movers (BEML)
(B) Indian Oil Corporation
(C) National Insurance Company
(D) Coal India Limited (CIL) 
Answer: (D) Coal India Limited (CIL)
Question: Name the Union Minister of Communications & IT who on 30 January 2015 released a set of Commemorative Postage stamps on Swachh Bharat?
(A) Sadananda Gowda
(B) Arun Jaitley
(C) J P Nanda
(D) Ravi Shankar Prasad
Answer: (D) Ravi Shankar Prasad
Question: Krishna Chaudhary was on 30 January 2015 appointed as the Director General (DG) of?
(A) Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
(B) Border Security Force (BSF)
(C) Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
(D) Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
Answer: (A) Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
Question: Which Department was recently awarded GOLD in National Award on e-governance 2014-15?
(A) Department of Posts
(B) Department of Food Processing
(C) Department of Space
(D) Income Tax Department
Answer: (D) Income Tax Department [Awarded for for TDS Reconciliation Analysis & Correction Enabling System (TRACES)]
Question: Nation observed the death anniversary of the Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on 30 January 2015 as?
(A) Non Violence Day
(B) Martyrs' Day
(C) Anti-Leprosy Day
(D) Ant-Terrorism Day
Answer: (B) Martyrs' Day
Question: Novak Djokovic won his fifth Australian Open title on 1 February 2015 defeating whom?
(A) Stan Wawrinka
(B) Tomas Berdych
(C) Andy Murray
(D) Rafael Nadal
Answer: (C) Andy Murray
Question: After deciding to split into three, which company recently became the first Indian listed company to solely focus on life insurance?
(A) Max India
(B) Reliance
(C) Bajaj
(D) Aviva
Answer: (A) Max India
Question: Which cricket player recently pulled out of West Indies World Cup squad saying he needed more time to work on his bowling action?
(A) Darren Sammy
(B) Sulaiman Benn
(C) Jerome Taylor
(D) Sunil Narine
Answer: (D) Sunil Narine
Question: Tomas Berdych of Czech Republic recently defeated which top seeded player in the quarterfinals of Australian Open 2015?
(A) Rafael Nadal
(B) Roger Federer
(C) Andy Murray
(D) Novak Djokovic
Answer: (A) Rafael Nadal
Question: Name the winter snow storm recently hit the northeastern states of the USA?
(A) Athena
(B) Juno
(C) Brutus
(D) Nemo
Answer: (B) Juno
Question: Which International Airport has recently emerged as the busiest international airport in the world?
(A) Dubai International Airport
(B) United Kingdom London Heathrow Airport
(C) Hong Kong International Airport
(D) Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Answer: (A) Dubai International Airport
Question: Who recently won the Allan Border Medal for the Australian player of the year?
(A) Mitchell Johnson
(B) Steve Smith
(C) Brad Haddin
(D) James Faulkner
Answer: (B) Steve Smith
Question: Who won the men's singles of Syed Modi Grand Prix Gold badminton tournament on 25 January 2015?
(A) HS Pranoy
(B) Kidambi Srikanth
(C) Parupalli Kashyap
(D) Lee Chong Wei
Answer: (C) Parupalli Kashyap
Question: Alexis Tsipras was recently sworn in as prime minister of which country?
(A) Brazil
(B) Malaysia
(C) Egypt
(D) Greece
Answer: (D) Greece
Question: R K Laxman, the country's best-known cartoonist, passed away on 26 January 2015. He is best known for creation of which among the following iconic character?
(A) Common Man
(B) Amul girl
(C) Chacha Chaudhari
(D) Suppandi
Answer: (A) Common Man
Question: Who was appointed as the new foreign secretary of India on 28 January 2015?
(A) H S Brahma
(B) Sujatha Singh
(C) S Jaishankar
(D) DP Sinha 
Answer: (C) S Jaishankar

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS MARCH 2015 (160 Questions)

Question: Which cricketer was recently voted as the greatest ODI player in the history of cricket in a voting conducted by ESPNcricinfo?
(A) Sachin Tendulkar
(B) Don Bradman
(C) Steve Waugh
(D) Viv Richard
Answer: (D) Viv Richard
Question: Union government has recently approved setting up of an All India Institute of Ayurveda at?
(A) Palakkad
(B) New Delhi
(C) Bhubaneswar
(D) Visakhapatnam
Answer: (B) New Delhi
Question: Supreme Court on 17 March 2015 set aside the notification to include which community in the Central list of Other Backward Classes (OBC)?
(A) Jats
(B) Jews
(C) Lodha
(D) Gorkha
Answer: (A) Jats
Question: Which country has raced ahead of Germany to become the world's third largest arms exporter as per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) recent report?
(A) India
(B) Saudi Arabia
(C) China
(D) Russia
Answer: (C) China
Question: Who recently took over as CEO of Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited (CRISIL)?
(A) Roopa Kudva
(B) Radhika Roy
(C) Jyotsna Suri
(D) Ashu Suyash
Answer: (D) Ashu Suyash
Question: Veteran singer and music composer Bombay S. Kamal who passed away recently was famous in which language?
(A) Hindi
(B) Malayalam
(C) Kannada
(D) Tamil
Answer: (B) Malayalam
Question: Which state government recently passed 'Gauvansh Sanrakshan and Gausamvardhan' Bill, under which cow slaughter and the sale of beef have been banned in the state?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Maharashtra
(C) Haryana
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (C) Haryana
Question: Which company recently appointed Abid Ali Neemuchwala as group president and chief operating officer?
(A) Infosys
(B) TCS
(C) Google
(D) Wipro
Answer: (D) Wipro
Question: Paul van Ass on 16 March 2015 took charge as the chief coach of?
(A) Indian men’s football team
(B) Indian men’s hockey team
(C) Indian men’s kabbadi team
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) Indian men’s hockey team
Question: Name the chief of the International Monetary Fund who was on a two day visit to India recently?
(A) Christine Lagarde
(B) Jim Yong Kim
(C) Takehiko Nakao
(D) Oprah Winfrey
Answer: (A) Christine Lagarde
Question: Recently in which country did Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first of the eight Coastal Surveillance Radar Systems (CSRS) being set up by India?
(A) Mauritius
(B) Maldives
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Seychelles
Answer: (D) Seychelles
Question: Which Snooker player recently won the first ranking title at Indian Open?
(A) Michael White
(B) Ricky Walden
(C) Mark Williams
(D) Thepchaiya Un-Nooh
Answer: (A) Michael White
Question: Who won the Australian Grand Prix 2015, the first Formula 1 (FGrand Prix of the season on 15 March 2015?
(A) Nico Rosberg
(B) Sebastian Vettel
(C) Lewis Hamilton
(D) Felipe Massa
Answer: (C) Lewis Hamilton
Question: Powerful cyclone Pam on 14 March 2015 hit the south Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu. Name the capital of the Oceanian island nation Vanuatu?
(A) Victoria
(B) Accra
(C) Conakry
(D) Port Vila
Answer: (D) Port Vila
Question: Narayan Desai who passed away on 15 March 2015 was a veteran _____?
(A) Historian
(B) Gandhian
(C) Scientist
(D) Sculptor
Answer: (B) Gandhian
Question: World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) 2015 was recently observed on?
(A) March 15
(B) March 14
(C) March 13
(D) March 12
Answer: (A) March 15
Question: Indian women recently won the FIH Hockey World League Round 2 at Major Dhyan Chan stadium in New Delhi defeating which country?
(A) Netherlands
(B) Poland
(C) Malaysia
(D) Australia
Answer: (B) Poland
Question: Young Indian shuttler K. Srikanth on 15 March 2015 won which among the following major badminton championship?
(A) China Grand Prix Gold
(B) Australian Grand Prix Gold
(C) Swiss Grand Prix Gold
(D) Indonesian Grand Prix Gold
Answer: (C) Swiss Grand Prix Gold
Question: Which social networking site recently acquired shopping search engine TheFind.com?
(A) Facebook
(B) Twitter
(C) Whatsapp
(D) Instagram 
Answer: (A) Facebook
Question: Which team lifted the 69th edition of Santosh Trophy on 15 March 2015?
(A) Mizoram
(B) Kerala
(C) Punjab
(D) Services
Answer: (D) Services
Question: Arjun Kapoor and _____ were recently awarded Golden Kela awards (for the worst performance of 2014)?
(A) Sonam Kapoor
(B) Katrina Kaif
(C) Sonakshi Sinha
(D) Rani Mukherjee
Answer: (C) Sonakshi Sinha
Question: Bhaiyyaji Joshi was recently elected general secretary of which organization?
(A) BJP
(B) Shiva Sena
(C) ABVP
(D) RSS
Answer: (D) RSS
Question: Pi Day is observed every year on?
(A) March 14
(B) March 15
(C) March 16
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) March 14
Question: Who is proposed to be appointed as the brand ambassador of the Northeast as per recent news reports?
(A) Baichung Bhutia
(B) MC Mary Kom
(C) Sania Mirza
(D) MS Dhoni
Answer: (B) MC Mary Kom
Question: Astronomer's have recently found the most conclusive evidence yet that a large watery ocean lies beneath the surface of Ganymede. Ganymede is the moon of?
(A) Mars
(B) Venus
(C) Jupiter
(D) Saturn
Answer: (C) Jupiter
Question: Lia van Leer who passed away on 13 March 2015  was a pioneer of _____cinema?
(A) Israeli
(B) Italian
(C) British
(D) French
Answer: (A) Israeli
Question: Statue of Mahatma Gandhi was recently unveiled in Parliament Square of Britain jointly by the British Prime Minister David Cameron and?
(A) Gopalkrishna Gandhi
(B) Amitabh Bachchan
(C) Arun Jaitley
(D) Narendra Modi
Answer: (C) Arun Jaitley
Question: Who recently became the fastest cricketer to reach 20 centuries in one day International matches?
(A) Virat Kohli
(B) Hashim Amla
(C) Kumar Sangakkara
(D) Misbah ul Haq
Answer: (B) Hashim Amla
Question: A historic bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled on 14 March 2015 at the Parliament Square in which country?
(A) USA
(B) France
(C) Canada
(D) Britain
Answer: (D) Britain
Question: Name the Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers who launched the Pharma Jan Samadhan Scheme on March 12, 2015, to address the grievances of consumers (related to the prices of drugs and the availability of medicines)?
(A) Ananth Kumar
(B) Harsha Vardhan
(C) Rajnath Singh
(D) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: (A) Ananth Kumar
Question: Name the Scientific Director of National Dope Testing Laboratory who has been nominated to the Executive Board of WAADS (World Association of Anti Doping Scientists) recently?
(A) Dr. Ali Neemuchwala
(B) Dr. Ashu Suyash
(C) Dr. Alka Beotra
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) Dr. Alka Beotra
Question: Mohamed Nasheed who was on 13 March 2015 sentenced to 13-year imprisonment by a criminal court under the anti-terrorism laws, was the former president of which country?
(A) Jordan
(B) Kenya
(C) Afghanistan
(D) Maldives
Answer: (D) Maldives
Question: Which country on 13 March 2015 successfully tested its first indigenously built all-weather armed drone named Burraq and a laser guided missile named Barq?
(A) China
(B) Pakistan
(C) South Korea
(D) Indonesia
Answer: (B) Pakistan
Question: Which country recently won a unanimous vote to host the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup in 2019?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) India
(C) UAE
(D) Nepal
Answer: (C) UAE
Question: World Sleep Day 2015 was recently observed on?
(A) 11 March
(B) 10 March
(C) 12 March
(D) 13 March
Answer: (D) 13 March
Question: Reserve Bank of India has recently agreed for a $1.5-billion currency swap agreement with which country's central bank to help the island nation keep its currency stable?
(A) Sri Lankan
(B) Maldives
(C) Mauritius
(D) Phillipines
Answer: (A) Sri Lankan
Question: INS Alleppey, one of the six Ponchicherry class coastal minesweepers purchased from which country was on 13 March 2015 decommissioned?
(A) USA
(B) France
(C) Russia, erstwhile USSR
(D) Italy
Answer: (C) Russia, erstwhile USSR
Question: On 13 March 2015, which country has withdrawn its application to join the European Union, with the government saying that its interests are best served outside the 28-nation EU?
(A) Ireland
(B) Hungary
(C) Greece
(D) Iceland 
Answer: (D) Iceland
Question: The national tourism agency of Britain has recently roped in which Bollywood actor for promoting an India-centric tourist campaign?
(A) Aamir Khan
(B) Saif Ali Khan
(C) Sharukh Khan
(D) Salman Khan
Answer: (B) Saif Ali Khan
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 March 2015 became the first Indian PM to visit Sri Lanka in 28 years. Who was the last Indian Prime Minister to visit Sri Lanka?
(A) Rajiv Gandhi
(B) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
(C) P. V. Narasimha Rao
(D) H. D. Deve Gowda
Answer: (A) Rajiv Gandhi
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief guest at the 47th National Day celebrations of which country on 12 March 2015?
(A) Sri Lanka
(B) Thailand
(C) Mauritius
(D) Seychelles
Answer: (C) Mauritius
Question: World Kidney Day was observed on 12 March 2015. The theme for the day this year (2015) was?
(A) STOP Kidney Attack
(B) Kidney Health For All
(C) Chronic Kidney Disease & Aging
(D) Donate- Kidneys for Life
Answer: (B) Kidney Health For All
Question: Name the Chief Minister of Bihar who on 11 March 2015 won trust vote on the floor of assembly?
(A) Nitish Kumar
(B) Ram Vilas Paswan
(C) Lalu Prasad Yadav
(D) Jithin Ram Manji
Answer: (A) Nitish Kumar
Question: N. Sakthan was on 12 March 2015 elected as the Speaker of which state's Legislative Assembly?
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Telengana
(C) Andhra Pradesh
(D) Kerala
Answer: (D) Kerala
Question: World Kidney Day is observed on?
(A) March 12
(B) March 11
(C) March 13
(D) March 14
Answer: (A) March 12
Question: India on 11 March 2015 signed four agreements with the Indian Ocean island nation Seychelles to boost security and maritime partnership. Capital of Seychelles is?
(A) Amman
(B) Port Louis
(C) Victoria
(D) Male 
Answer: (C) Victoria
Question: Recently, United States President Barack Obama has nominated veteran diplomat David Hale as the next ambassador to?
(A) India
(B) Pakistan
(C) China
(D) Bangladesh
Answer: (B) Pakistan
Question: Name the Special CBI judge, who recently summoned former PM Manmohan Singh and five other accused in the coal scam?
(A) Ashok Kumar Mathur
(B) K G Balakrishnan
(C) Mukul Mudgal
(D) Bharat Parashar
Answer: (D) Bharat Parashar
Question: Which state recently won Ranji Trophy 2015 beating Tamil Nadu by an innings and 217 runs?
(A) Maharashtra
(B) Karnataka
(C) West Bengal
(D) Delhi
Answer: (B) Karnataka
Question: Who recently became the first player to score four successive one-day international centuries, setting a new record, during World Cup 2015?
(A) AB de Villers
(B) Mahela Jayawardene
(C) Kumar Sangakkara
(D) Brendon Mccullum
Answer: (C) Kumar Sangakkara
Question: Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has on 11 March 2015 approved the appointment of Executive Directors(EDs) in how many Public Sector Banks(PSBs)?
(A) 8
(B) 10
(C) 9
(D) 15
Answer: (C) 9
Question: Indian Railways on 11th March 2015 inked a MoU with ____ for Rs 1.5 lakh crore investments in rail infrastructure?
(A) New India Assurance Co. Ltd
(B) LIC
(C) United India Assurance
(D) State Bank of India
Answer: (B) LIC
Question: Which Indian IT company was recently named as the top employer in Europe for the third consecutive year by a top employers certification agency?
(A) TCS
(B) Infosys
(C) Wipro
(D) Accenture
Answer: (A) TCS
Question: Which High Court recently in its ruling has held that Attorney General of India comes under the ambit of Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005?
(A) Delhi High Court
(B) Kerala High Court
(C) Odisha High Court
(D) Bombay High Court
Answer: (A) Delhi High Court
Question: United States on 9 March 2015 declared which country a national security threat?
(A) Cuba
(B) Uruguay
(C) Syria
(D) Venezuela 
Answer: (D) Venezuela
Question: Which is India's largest company with Rs 3.68 lakh cr worth assets as per data compiled by the Corporate Affairs Ministry, which was released recently?
(A) HDFC
(B) Indian Oil Corporation
(C) BSNL
(D) Reliance Industries Ltd
Answer: (D) Reliance Industries Ltd
Question: India and which country recently completed its first ever Friendship Motor Rally successfully at India gate?
(A) Bhutan
(B) Nepal
(C) China
(D) Japan
Answer: (B) Nepal
Question: On 10 March 2015, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) celebrated its ______ Raising Day?
(A) 50th
(B) 40th
(C) 46th
(D) 75th
Answer: (C) 46th
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 March 2015 left for three-nation tour. Which among the following country is not included in the visit?
(A) Seychelles
(B) Mauritius
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Maldives
Answer: (D) Maldives
Question: Mahendra Singh Dhoni on 10 March 2015 registered most wins by an Indian captain in the history of the cricket World Cup. He surpassed whose record?
(A) Mohammad Azharuddin
(B) Kapil Dev
(C) Sourav Ganguly
(D) Anil Kumble
Answer: (B) Kapil Dev
Question: Which state government on 8 March 2015 launched 'Bhagyashree' scheme in place of the Sukanya scheme which caters to girls from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Kerala
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Haryana
Answer: (C) Maharashtra
Question: Name the solar-powered plane which started its historic 35,000-km round-the-world journey from Abu Dhabi on 9 March 2015?
(A) Lunar Impulse-1
(B) Solar Impulse - 2
(C) Flying Saucer
(D) Wallops Flight
Answer: (B) Solar Impulse - 2
Question: As per recent reports, which country overtook India in 2014 as the world’s biggest importer of defence equipment?
(A) Saudi Arabia
(B) Pakistan
(C) China
(D) Syria
Answer: (A) Saudi Arabia
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched India's first indigenously developed rotavirus vaccine Rotavac. This vaccine protects children from which disease?
(A) Chicken Pox
(B) Small Pox
(C) Malaria
(D) Diarrhea
Answer: (D) Diarrhea
Question: Walmart India has recently appointed whom as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO)?
(A) Vittorio Colao
(B) Ashwin Mittal
(C) Vivek Murthy
(D) S Ramakrishnan
Answer: (B) Ashwin Mittal
Question: Former Union minister and senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily was recently selected for the prestigious Saraswati Samman for 2014 for his famous Kannada poem?
(A) Nadeyali Samara
(B) Yakshaprashne
(C) Halu-Jenu Maththe
(D) Ramayana Mahanveshanam
Answer: (D) Ramayana Mahanveshanam
Question: After a gap of over 20 years, Re 1 note has been released in the country on 6 March 2015 by Finance Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi. The new Rs.1 note bears the signature of?
(A) Finance Minister
(B) RBI Governor
(C) Finance Secretary
(D) Home Secretary
Answer: (C) Finance Secretary
Question: New schemes PRASAD and SWADESH DARSHAN were recently launched by the government to promote ____ in the country?
(A) Make in India
(B) Cleanliness
(C) Sports
(D) Tourism 
Answer: (D) Tourism
Question: Union Health Ministry recently announced Safe Motherhood Day to be observed on?
(A) March 6
(B) March 8
(C) March 10
(D) March 12
Answer: (B) March 8
Question: Who was recently selected for the prestigious Saraswati Samman for the year 2014?
(A) Veerappa Moily
(B) Kamal Nath
(C) Jayaram Ramesh
(D) Sashi Tharoor
Answer: (A) Veerappa Moily
Question: Who recently won the Men’s singles title in the All England Badminton Championship?
(A) Lin Dan
(B) Lee Chong Wei
(C) P Kashyap
(D) Chen Long
Answer: (D) Chen Long
Question: Which state's popular global multimedia campaign to promote the backwaters has recently won the Golden Gate award at the Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin (ITB-Berlin) - 2015?
(A) Jammu and Kashmir
(B) Kerala
(C) Arunachal Pradesh
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (B) Kerala
Question: Arun Singh was recently appointed as India’s ambassador to which country?
(A) France
(B) Pakistan
(C) USA
(D) Russia
Answer: (C) USA
Question: Scheme for girl child - 'Aapki Beti Humari Beti' was recently launched by which state?
(A) Maharashtra
(B) Haryana
(C) Bihar
(D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: (B) Haryana
Question: Name the 14-day-long 8th India-Nepal Combined Exercise which concluded on 8 March 2015 at Salijhandi in Nepal?
(A) Surya Kiran VIII
(B) Mithra Shakthi- VIII
(C) Hand-in-Hand
(D) Garuda Shakti-VIII
Answer: (A) Surya Kiran VIII
Question: Best-selling book ‘Lucknow Boy’ which was published in 2011 is the autobiography of which journalist?
(A) Barkha Dutt
(B) Rajdeep Sardesai
(C) Vikram Chandra
(D) Vinod Mehta
Answer: (D) Vinod Mehta
Question: Renowned journalist Vinod Mehta, who passed away on 8 March 2015, was founder of which famous weekly magazine?
(A) The Pioneer
(B) Outlook
(C) The Sunday Observer
(D) The Independent
Answer: (B) Outlook
Question: Six illustrious women have been recently awarded the 'Stree Shakti Puraskar' on the occasion of International Women's Day (March 8,201by whom?
(A) Prime Minister of India
(B) Loksabha Speaker
(C) Vice President of India
(D) President of India 
Answer: (D) President of India
Question: What is the Official UN theme for the 2015 International Women’s Day?
(A) Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Picture it!
(B) Equality for Women is Progress for All
(C) Investing in Women and Girls
(D) Women in Decision-making
Answer: (A) Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Picture it!
Question: Saina Nehwal lost the women's singles final of the $500,000 All England Open Badminton Championships to Carolina Marin on 5 March 2015. Carolina Marin is from which country?
(A) Egypt
(B) Switzerland
(C) Spain
(D) Belarus
Answer: (C) Spain
Question: Which Sri Lanka cricketer on 8 March 2015 announced that he will retire from Test cricket by the end of August this year?
(A) Kumar Sangakkara
(B) Angelo Mathews
(C) Mahela Jayawardene
(D) Tillakaratne Dilshan
Answer: (A) Kumar Sangakkara
Question: Which bowler recently joined cricket’s exclusive 300 ODI wickets club by claiming his 300th victim during the ongoing World Cup?
(A) Shahid Afridi
(B) Ravichandran Ashwin
(C) Shane Watson
(D) Daniel Vettori 
Answer: (D) Daniel Vettori
Question: International Women’s Day was celebrated every year on?
(A) March 7
(B) March 8
(C) March 9
(D) March 4
Answer: (B) March 8
Question: Saina Nehwal recently became the first Indian in 14 years to reach the final of which Badminton Championship?
(A) BWF World Championships
(B) Indonesia Open Grand Prix Gold
(C) All England Open Badminton Championships
(D) Spanish International Badminton Tournament?
Answer: (C) All England Open Badminton Championships
Question: Snooker recently shortlisted for 2020 Olympics. Olympics 2020 will be held at?
(A) Incheon
(B) Durban
(C) Rio de Janeiro
(D) Tokyo
Answer: (D) Tokyo
Question: G Karthikeyan who passed away on 7 March 2015 was the Assembly Speaker of which state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Karnataka
(C) Tamil Nadu
(D) Goa
Answer: (A) Kerala
Question: Which city emerged as the best city to live in India according to consultancy firm Mercer's Quality of Living Report-2015?
(A) Mumbai
(B) Hyderabad
(C) Kochi
(D) Delhi
Answer: (B) Hyderabad
Question: Which E-Commerce company on 6 March 2015 acquired mobile ad network AdiQuity?
(A) Amazon
(B) Snapdeal
(C) Flipkart
(D) eBay
Answer: (C) Flipkart
Question:  'iSafe'  mobile app for women's safety was recently launched for Thiruvananthapuram City Police by?
(A) TCS
(B) Infosys
(C) Accenture
(D) UST Global
Answer: (D) UST Global
Question: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which is the nodal agency for all retail payment systems under the Jan Dhan scheme recently announced that it has linked ____ crore bank accounts with Aadhaar number?
(A) 15 crore
(B) 20 crore
(C) 10 crore
(D) 12 crore
Answer: (A) 15 crore
Question: Ram Sundar Das who passed away recently was the former Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Odisha
(D) Bihar
Answer: (D) Bihar
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been recently named among the 30 most influential people on the internet by which magazine?
(A) People Magazine
(B) Time Magazine
(C) Forbes Magazine
(D) India Today Magazine
Answer: (B) Time Magazine
Question: Paul Allen who recently announced the discovery of the famous World War II Japanese battleship, the Musashi, more than 70 years after it was sunk by US forces, is the co-founder of?
(A) Twitter
(B) Facebook
(C) Microsoft
(D) Google
Answer: (C) Microsoft
Question: Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar on 4 March 2015 concluded his four-day SAARC Yatra after visiting how many countries?
(A) Five
(B) Two
(C) Seven
(D) Four
Answer: (D) Four
Question: Documentary film "India's Daughter" which recently sparked controversy in India and is part of the BBC's ongoing Storyville series was directed by?
(A) Leslee Udwin
(B) Tony Hall
(C) Twinkle Khanna
(D) Steven Paulman
Answer: (A) Leslee Udwin. The film is based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape.
Question: World Day of the Fight against Sexual Exploitation was observed every year on?
(A) March 1
(B) March 4
(C) March 6
(D) March 8
Answer: (B) March 4
Question: Which Indian cricket player was on 5 March 2015 reprimanded by the BCCI for his abusive behaviour towards a journalist during the ongoing World Cup in Australia?
(A) Ravindra Jadega
(B) Suresh Raina
(C) Virat Kohli
(D) MS Dhoni
Answer: (C) Virat Kohli
Question: Which state government recently scraped the five percent reservation to Muslims in education in the state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Haryana
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (D) Maharashtra
Question: World Wildlife Day is celebrated annually on?
(A) March 3
(B) March 4
(C) March 5
(D) March 6
Answer: (A) March 3
Question: Union Minister Raosaheb Dadarao Danve, who was made Maharasthra BJP president a few months back, recently resigned from the Council of Ministers. He held the portfolio of Minister of State for?
(A) Home Affairs
(B) Civil Aviation
(C) Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
(D) Communication and Information Technology 
Answer: (C) Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
Question: Ram Sundar Das who passed away recently was the former Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Odisha
(D) Bihar
Answer: (D) Bihar
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been recently named among the 30 most influential people on the internet by which magazine?
(A) People Magazine
(B) Time Magazine
(C) Forbes Magazine
(D) India Today Magazine
Answer: (B) Time Magazine
Question: Paul Allen who recently announced the discovery of the famous World War II Japanese battleship, the Musashi, more than 70 years after it was sunk by US forces, is the co-founder of?
(A) Twitter
(B) Facebook
(C) Microsoft
(D) Google
Answer: (C) Microsoft
Question: Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar on 4 March 2015 concluded his four-day SAARC Yatra after visiting how many countries?
(A) Five
(B) Two
(C) Seven
(D) Four
Answer: (D) Four
Question: Documentary film "India's Daughter" which recently sparked controversy in India and is part of the BBC's ongoing Storyville series was directed by?
(A) Leslee Udwin
(B) Tony Hall
(C) Twinkle Khanna
(D) Steven Paulman
Answer: (A) Leslee Udwin. The film is based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape.
Question: World Day of the Fight against Sexual Exploitation was observed every year on?
(A) March 1
(B) March 4
(C) March 6
(D) March 8
Answer: (B) March 4
Question: Which Indian cricket player was on 5 March 2015 reprimanded by the BCCI for his abusive behaviour towards a journalist during the ongoing World Cup in Australia?
(A) Ravindra Jadega
(B) Suresh Raina
(C) Virat Kohli
(D) MS Dhoni
Answer: (C) Virat Kohli
Question: Which state government recently scraped the five percent reservation to Muslims in education in the state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Haryana
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (D) Maharashtra
Question: World Wildlife Day is celebrated annually on?
(A) March 3
(B) March 4
(C) March 5
(D) March 6
Answer: (A) March 3
Question: Union Minister Raosaheb Dadarao Danve, who was made Maharasthra BJP president a few months back, recently resigned from the Council of Ministers. He held the portfolio of Minister of State for?
(A) Home Affairs
(B) Civil Aviation
(C) Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
(D) Communication and Information Technology 
Answer: (C) Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
Question: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 4 March 2015 has cut down repo rate by 25 basis points to?
(A) 7.75
(B) 7.50
(C) 7.25
(D) 7.00 
Answer: (B) 7.50
Question: Lok Sabha on 4 March 2015 passed the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2015. This bill provides for raising the foreign investment cap from 26 per cent to ___ per cent?
(A) 51
(B) 75
(C) 49
(D) 100
Answer: (C) 49
Question: “Bharat-Nepal Maitri Bus Seva” was flagged off by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav in Varanasi on 4 March 2015. This bus service will connect Varanasi to?
(A) Nepalgunj
(B) Pokhara
(C) Butwal
(D) Kathmandu
Answer: (D) Kathmandu
Question: M C Mary Kom on 3 March 2015 said she has decided to quit boxing after the 2016 Olympic Games. 2016 Olympic Games will be held at?
(A) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(B) Tokyo, Japan
(C) Durban, South Africa
(D) Beijing, China 
Answer: (A) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Question: World's largest and tallest Indian tricolour was unfurled at Town Park in Faridabad on 3 March 2015. Faridabad is in which Indian state?
(A) Punjab
(B) Haryana
(C) Uttar Pradesh
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (B) Haryana
Question: Ratings agency Moody’s has recently downgraded ratings for which banks?
(A) Union Bank Of India and Indian Bank
(B) State Bank of India and Vijaya Bank
(C) Central Bank of India and Indian Overseas Bank
(D) Bank of Baroda and Punjab National Bank
Answer: (C) Central Bank of India and Indian Overseas Bank
Question: A bill banning the cow slaughter in which state received the President's assent on 4 March 2015?
(A) Haryana
(B) Jammu and Kashmir
(C) Himachal Pradesh
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (D) Maharashtra
Question: _____ on 3 March 2015 launched National Electoral Roll Purification and Authentication Programme (NERPAP) throughout India?
(A) Union Home Ministry
(B) Ministry of Panchayati Raj
(C) Election Commission of India
(D) Department of Posts
Answer: (C) Election Commission of India
Question: Which country recently unveiled a new political theory named “Four Comprehensives”?
(A) China
(B) Brazil
(C) Cuba
(D) Uruguay
Answer: (A) China
Question: On 3 March 2015, for the _____ time in Rajya Sabha’s history that an amendment moved by the opposition to the motion of thanks to the President’s address has been passed?
(A) First
(B) Second
(C) Third
(D) Fourth
Answer: (D) Fourth
Question: Sania Mirza of India has recently decided to team up with former World No. 1 Martina Hingis in the US-leg of the WTA Tour circuit. Martina Hingis is from which country?
(A) Switzerland
(B) Serbia
(C) Spain
(D) Slovakia
Answer: (A) Switzerland
Question: Who recently won the Argentina Open tennis tournament?
(A) Roger Federer
(B) Rafael Nadal
(C) Andy Murray
(D) Novak Djokovic
Answer: (B) Rafael Nadal
Question: Hifikepunye Pohamba has recently won the world's most valuable individual award, the Mo Ibrahim prize for African leadership. Hifikepunye Pohamba is the President of which African country?
(A) South Africa
(B) Kenya
(C) Namibia
(D) Nigeria
Answer: (C) Namibia
Question: Lok Sabha passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2015 by voice vote on 2 March 2015. The Bill seeks to amend the?
(A) Citizenship Act, 1947
(B) Citizenship Act, 1950
(C) Citizenship Act, 1953
(D) Citizenship Act, 1955
Answer: (D) Citizenship Act, 1955
Question: World’s first electric satellites successfully lifted off by which rocket recently?
(A) Antares rocket
(B) SpaceX rocket
(C) Nighttime rocket
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) SpaceX rocket
Question: Which football club recently won League Cup?
(A) Chelsea
(B) Tottenham
(C) Manchester United
(D) Manchester City
Answer: (A) Chelsea
Question: Who has been declared the richest man in the world for the 16th time by Forbes magazine's annual ranking of global billionaires released recently?
(A) Warren Buffett
(B) Carlos Slim Helu
(C) Bill Gates
(D) Larry Ellison
Answer: (C) Bill Gates
Question: Arvind Virmani, who served as the country’s Chief Economic Advisor and Principal Advisor in the Planning Commission, was recently appointed as the Economic Mentor of?
(A) FICCI
(B) ASSOCHAM
(C) NASSCOM
(D) Infosys 
Answer: (A) FICCI
Question: Who has been unanimously elected the president of the BCCI on 2 March 2015?
(A) N. Srinivasan
(B) Jagmohan Dalmiya
(C) Shivlal Yadav
(D) Sharad Pawar
Answer: (B) Jagmohan Dalmiya
Question: Which mine sweeper of the Indian Navy will be decommissioned in 2015 as announced recently?
(A) INS Kozhikode
(B) INS Kakinada
(C) INS Ratnagiri
(D) INS Alleppey
Answer: (D) INS Alleppey
Question: Ola, which is the market leader in the personal transportation space in India has recently acquired?
(A) TaxiForSure
(B) RedBus
(C) Planmytrip
(D) UberTaxi
Answer: (A) TaxiForSure
Question: Who was appointed as the new Chairman of the National Book Trust (NBT) on 2 March 2015?
(A) A. Sethumadhavan
(B) M.T Vasudevan Nair
(C) Baldev Sharma
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) Baldev Sharma
Question: Which BJP leader has recently sworn in as the deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir?
(A) Chander Parkash Ganga
(B) Sukhnandan Choudhary
(C) Bali Bhagat
(D) Nirmal Singh 
Answer: (D) Nirmal Singh
Question: Zero Discrimination Day was recently observed on?
(A) 28 February
(B) 1 March
(C) 2 March
(D) 24 February
Answer: (B) 1 March
Question: National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) on 1 March 2015 celebrated its ___th foundation day?
(A) 25th
(B) 20th
(C) 50th
(D) 75th
Answer: (A) 25th
Question: Which city will host the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG) as confirmed recently?
(A) Gold Coast, Australia
(B) Nairobi, Kenya
(C) Lusaka, Zambia
(D) Durban, South Africa
Answer: (D) Durban, South Africa
Question: New Zealand cricketer Martin Crowe was recently inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame as the ___th member?
(A) 75
(B) 81
(C) 79
(D) 64
Answer: (C) 79
Question: Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar began his 4-nation SAARC Yatra on 1 March 2015. Which country he visited first in the SAARC Yatra?
(A) Pakistan
(B) Bangladesh
(C) Afghanistan
(D) Bhutan
Answer: (D) Bhutan
Question: Who won the Dubai Open ATP Tennis Championship Men’s single title recently?
(A) Roger Federer
(B) Novak Djokovic
(C) Rafael Nadal
(D) Andy Murray
Answer: (A) Roger Federer
Question: Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on 1 March 2015 took oath as the Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Uttar Pradesh
(B) Jammu and Kashmir
(C) Arunachal Pradesh
(D) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: (B) Jammu and Kashmir
Question: Jitan Ram Manjhi and his supporters on 28 February 2015 floated a political front named 'Hindustani Awam Morcha' (HAM). Jitan Ram Manjhi was the former Chief Minister of?
(A) Bihar
(B) Haryana
(C) Odisha
(D) Jharkhand
Answer: (A) Bihar
Question: Martin Crowe was on 28 February 2015 inducted into the International Cricket Council’s Cricket Hall of Fame. Martin Crowe was the former cricketer from?
(A) West Indies
(B) New Zealand
(C) Australia
(D) England
Answer: (B) New Zealand
Question: University of Disability Studies announced in Union Budget 2015-16 will be set up in which state?
(A) Jammu and Kashmir
(B) Andhra Pradesh
(C) Kerala
(D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (C) Kerala
Question: In the Union Budget 2015-16 presented recently, finance minister has proposed merger of Forwards Markets Commission (FMC) with?
(A) TRAI
(B) PFRDA
(C) RBI
(D) SEBI
Answer: (D) SEBI
Question: Senior Counsel Kannan Ramesh (a 49-year-old Indian-origin lawyer) was recently appointed as a Judicial Commissioner to which country's Supreme Court bench?
(A) Singapore
(B) Malaysia
(C) Indonesia
(D) Bangladesh
Answer: (A) Singapore
Question: Which dictionary has recently added words "Ride-share" and "unboxing" in the new list released recently?
(A) Cambridge dictionary
(B) Oxford Dictionary
(C) Merriam-Webster Dictionary
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) Oxford Dictionary
Question: Corporate tax was proposed to be reduced from 30% to ___over next four years, in the Union Budget presented in Parliament on 28 February 2015?
(A) 15%
(B) 28%
(C) 25%
(D) 20%
Answer: (C) 25%
Question: Arun Kumar Singh, a 1979 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, has been recently named India’s next ambassador to the United States. He is presently India's ambassador to?
(A) China
(B) Japan
(C) Australia
(D) France
Answer: (D) France
Question: Name the Britain’s largest state-owned bank, which recently decided to shut down its banking operations in India?
(A) Royal Bank of Scotland
(B) Lloyds Banking Group
(C) Barclays
(D) Standard Chartered
Answer: (A) Royal Bank of Scotland
Question: Growth forecast of 8.1 to ___% for fiscal year 2015-16 was disclosed in the Economic Survey for 2015-16 presented in the Parliament on 27 February 2015 by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley?
(A) 8.2%
(B) 8.3%
(C) 8.4%
(D) 8.5%
Answer: (D) 8.5%
Question: Researchers from Monash University have recently created world’s first 3 Dimensional (3D) printed jet engine. Monash University is in which country?
(A) Australia
(B) USA
(C) Japan
(D) France
Answer: (A) Australia
Question: Xi Jinping has recently unveiled a new political theory, grouped into four slogans also known as the four comprehensives. Xi Jinping is the President of?
(A) Japan
(B) South Korea
(C) Singapore
(D) China
Answer: (D) China
Question: Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Forest Department of which state on 26 February 2015 have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for conservation of Asiatic lion and its habitat?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Goa
(C) Gujarat
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (C) Gujarat
Question: Name the Indian Navy’s Theatre Level Readiness and Operational Exercise exercise which concluded on 27 February 2015?
(A) Yudh Abhyas
(B) TROPEX
(C) Surya Kiran
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) TROPEX
Question: Which state government has recently decided to increase the cash reward under the inter-caste marriage scheme from 50,000 to 1 lakh rupees?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Andhra Pradesh
(C) Karnataka
(D) Haryana
Answer: (D) Haryana
Question: Every year February 28 is celebrated as the National Science Day. What was the theme for the day in 2015?
(A) Science for Nation Building
(B) Fostering Scientific Temper
(C) Genetically Modified Crops and Food Security
(D) Chemistry in Daily Life
Answer: (A) Science for Nation Building
Question: Boris Nemtsov who was shot dead in Moscow on 27 February 2015 was the opposition leader of which country?
(A) Russia
(B) Canada
(C) France
(D) Italy
Answer: (A) Russia
Question: Kshatrapati Shivaji has recently taken over as the Chairman and Managing Director of?
(A) National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
(B) Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI)
(C) Kerala Gramin Bank
(D) Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
Answer: (D) Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
Question: Which Indian was recently honoured with Doctorate of Automotive Engineering by Clemson University?
(A) APJ Abdul Kalam
(B) Ratan Tata
(C) Amartya Sen
(D) Manmohan Singh 
Answer: (B) Ratan Tata
Question: South African cricketer AB De Villiers has recently hit the fastest 150 in one-day internationals, in just 64 balls, against which country?
(A) Pakistan
(B) Ireland
(C) West Indies
(D) Srilanka
Answer: (C) West Indies

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 


ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS APRIL 2015 (100 Questions)

Question: Which bank has recently tied up with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to launch Rupay Platinum Debit card with upgraded features?
(A) IDBI Bank
(B) ICICI Bank
(D) SBI
(D) Federal Bank
Answer: (A) IDBI Bank
Question: Which player has recently smashed a world record 350 in just 138 balls during a one-day match in a Royal London National Club Championship game?
(A) Sean Abbott
(B) Liam Livingstone
(C) Charles Coventry
(D) Chris Morgan
Answer: (B) Liam Livingstone
Question: International Mother Earth Day was observed globally on 22 April 2015 with the theme?
(A) Green Cities
(B) The Face of Climate Change
(C) Mobilize the Earth
(D) It's our turn to lead
Answer: (D) It's our turn to lead
Question: Which department was on 21 April 2015 awarded 'Prime Minister's award for excellence in Public Administration?
(A) Department of Posts
(B) Department of Civil Aviation
(C) Income Tax Department
(D) All of these
Answer: (C) Income Tax Department
Question: Which country will become the first Test cricket nation to visit Pakistan since 2009 as announced recently?
(A) Srilanka
(B) Bangladesh
(C) West Indies
(D) Zimbabwe
Answer: (D) Zimbabwe
Question: Civil Services Day was observed across India on?
(A) 21 April
(B) 22 April
(C) 23 April
(D) 24 April
Answer: (A) 21 April
Question: Janaki Ballav Patnaik who passed away on 21 April 2015 was the former Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Assam
(B) Odisha
(C) Bihar
(D) Jharkhand
Answer: (B) Odisha
Question: Which Online travel company on 21 April 2015 announced that it has acquired certain assets of Mygola.com?
(A) Travel Yaari
(B) PlanmyTravel
(C) MakeMyTrip
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) MakeMyTrip
Question: Magnetic levitation technology (Maglev) train of which country has recently clocked a new world speed record smashing through the 603 kilometre per hour mark in a test run?
(A) Germany
(B) France
(C) Japan
(D) China
Answer: (C) Japan
Question: Pakistan on 21 April 2015 conferred its top civilian award ‘Nishan-e-Pakistan’ on?
(A) Xi Jinping
(B) Barack Obama
(C) Tony Abbott
(D) Vladimir Putin
Answer: (A) Xi Jinping
Question: E-Samiksha online monitoring mechanism was recently launched by?
(A) Railways
(B) India Post
(C) DOPT
(D) Prime Minister's Office
Answer: (A) Railways
Question: Who was on 20 April 2015, appointed as chief advisor of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Anti Corruption & Security Unit (ACSU)?
(A) Vivek Murthy
(B) Karun Sebastain
(C) Vikrant Raju
(D) Neeraj Kumar
Answer: (D) Neeraj Kumar
Question: Name the new tournament announced by Cricket South Africa recently?
(A) Africa T20 Cup
(B) African Super series
(C) Africa T20 extravangaza
(D) African Cricket Cup
Answer: (A) Africa T20 Cup
Question: Rajaji National Park in which state was recently declared as India's 48th Tiger Reserve?
(A) Madhya Pradesh
(B) Bihar
(C) Uttarakhand
(D) West Bengal
Answer: (C) Uttarakhand
Question: Which International news paper won two prestigious Pulitzer prizes on 20 April 2015 for coverage of the Ebola outbreak in West Africa?
(A) BBC
(B) New York Times
(C) Al Jazeera
(D) The Times
Answer: (B) New York Times
Question: Name Indian Navy’s new missile destroyer ship that was launched on 20 April 2015 at Mazagaon Dock Limited (MDL), Mumbai?
(A) INS Visakhapatnam
(B) INS Kolkata
(C) INS Alleppy
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) INS Visakhapatnam
Question: ICICI Bank launched near-field communications-enabled payment service 'Tap-n-Pay' in collaboration with?
(A) Snapdeal
(B) PNB Paribas
(C) Tech Mahindra
(D) Paytm
Answer: (C) Tech Mahindra
Question: Which bank recently launched near-field communications-enabled payment service 'Tap-n-Pay'?
(A) HDFC Bank
(B) State Bank of India
(C) Union Bank of India
(D) ICICI Bank
Answer: (D) ICICI Bank
Question: Bangladesh cricket team recently recorded their first ever ODI series win against which country?
(A) Pakistan
(B) West Indies
(C) England
(D) Australia
Answer: (A) Pakistan
Question: Who was elected as the fifth general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) on 19 April 2015?
(A) Pinarayi Vijayan
(B) Prakash Karat
(C) S Ramachandran Pillai
(D) Sitaram Yechury
Answer: (D) Sitaram Yechury
Question: Who won Bahrain Grand Prix 2015 recently?
(A) Nico Rosberg
(B) Kimi Raikkonen
(C) Lewis Hamilton
(D) Sebastian Vettel
Answer: (C) Lewis Hamilton
Question: Who assumed charge as the 20th Chief Election Commissioner succeeding H.S. Bramha on 19 April 2015?
(A) Nasim Zaidi
(B) K G Balakrishnan
(C) V S Sampath
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Nasim Zaidi
Question: Venkadarath Saritha was recently appointed as the first female driver by Transport Corporation of which state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Bihar
(C) Tamil Nadu
(D) Delhi
Answer: (D) Delhi
Question: President Pranab Mukherjee on 18 April 2015 inaugurated the centenary celebration of which High Court?
(A) Patna High Court
(B) Calcutta High Court
(C) Delhi High Court
(D) Bombay High Court
Answer: (A) Patna High Court
Question: 'Godse' is no longer unparliamentary except in reference to 'Nathuram Godse', Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan has ruled recently. In which year Parliament had banned the use of the word?
(A) 1950
(B) 1976
(C) 1956
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) 1956
Question: Aroon Purie, who was recently chosen as the 'Editor of the Year' is the Editor-in-Chief of which group?
(A) The Hindu
(B) Times of India
(C) India Today
(D) NDTV
Answer: (C) India Today
Question: Which Bollywood classic film was on 18 April 2015 released in Pakistan after 40 years of its release in India?
(A) Sholay
(B) Dilwale Dulhania le Jayenge
(C) Chandi Chauk
(D) Dastan
Answer: (A) Sholay
Question: Who recently took charge as the new spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry?
(A) Syed Akbaruddin
(B) S Jaishankar
(C) Arun Kumar Singh
(D) Vikas Swarup
Answer: (D) Vikas Swarup
Question: World Heritage Day was observed on?
(A) 24 April
(B) 14 April
(C) 21 April
(D) 18 April
Answer: (D) 18 April
Question: Haryana’s Ashish Jakhar on 17 April 2015 set a national youth record in boys’ hammer throw in the 12th National Youth Athletics Championships held at?
(A) Punjab
(B) Goa
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Kerala
Answer: (B) Goa
Question: Who emerged as winner of the 2015 Time magazine 100 reader’s poll?
(A) Lady Gaga
(B) Narendra Modi
(C) Xi Jinping
(D) Vladimir Putin
Answer: (D) Vladimir Putin
Question: Aam Aadmi Party rebels Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan on 14 April 2015 rallied their supporters and announced a separate group called?
(A) Hindustani Awam Morcha
(B) AAP the Rebel
(C) Swaraj Abhiyan
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) Swaraj Abhiyan
Question: Which bank was placed at the top spot among all banking entities in mobile banking transactions during January 2015 according to the pertaining data released by RBI on 14 April 2015?
(A) HDFC
(B) ICICI
(C) Axis
(D) SBI
Answer: (A) HDFC
Question: Nation observed __th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar on 14 April 2015?
(A) 120th
(B) 124th
(C) 125th
(D) 75th
Answer: (B) 124th
Question: Which Bank in India recently launched a mobile banking app named 'WatchBanking', designed specifically for the Apple Watch, becoming the first bank in India to do so?
(A) Bank of Baroda
(B) State Bank of India
(C) ICICI Bank
(D) HDFC Bank
Answer: (D) HDFC Bank
Question: FM transmission of Vividh Bharati was recently launched by?
(A) Narendra Modi
(B) Arun Jaitley
(C) Ravi Shankar Prasad
(D) Pranab Mukherjee
Answer: (B) Arun Jaitley
Question: Which country on 14 April 2015 began the construction of its first nuclear power plant located at Akkuyu in Mersin province?
(A) Canada
(B) Turkey
(C) France
(D) Malaysia
Answer: (B) Turkey
Question: Which restaurant search application has recently acquired cloud-based point of sale (POS) product for restaurants MaplePOS?
(A) Restaurant Finder
(B) Urbanspoon
(C) Zomato
(D) None of these
Answer: (C) Zomato
Question: Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation has recently constituted a 'Task Force' on Interlinking of Rivers. The Task Force would be chaired by?
(A) T. S. R. Subramanian
(B) Madav Gadgil
(C) Rakesh Jhunjhunwala
(D) BN Navalawala
Answer: (D) BN Navalawala
Question: Union Home Ministry has recently decided to rename the tourist visa-on-arrival scheme as?
(A) e-tourist visa
(B) e- arrival visa
(C) tourist e-visa
(D) arrival e-visa 
Answer: (A) e-tourist visa
Question: India and which country on 15 April 2015 signed a nuclear agreement on supply of uranium to India?
(A) Canada
(B) France
(C) Germany
(D) Italy
Answer: (A) Canada
Question: Filmmaker Bidyut Chakraborty who passed away recently was famous in which language?
(A) Assamese
(B) Hindi
(C) Kannada
(D) Malayalam
Answer: (A) Assamese
Question: Which stadium in India recently became country's first sporting venue to switch to solar power, when it formally launched a 400kv rooftop solar power system?
(A) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi
(B) Chinnaswamy stadium, Bengaluru
(C) Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
(D) Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
Answer: (B) Chinnaswamy stadium, Bengaluru
Question: Six political parties viz. Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Samajwadi Party (SP), Janata Dal (Secular), Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Samajwadi Janata Party (SJP) on 15 April 2015 announced the formation of a new party by merging themselves. Who will head the new party?
(A) Deve Gowda
(B) Sharad Yadav
(C) Nitish Kumar
(D) Mulayam Singh Yadav
Answer: (D) Mulayam Singh Yadav
Question: Which company will acquire French telecommunications Alcatel-Lucent for around $16.6 billion as announced recently?
(A) Nokia
(B) Motorola
(C) Samsung
(D) Apple
Answer: (A) Nokia
Question: Who was recently appointed as the new Indian Ambassador to France?
(A) Arun Kumar Singh
(B) Syed Akbaruddin
(C) Mohan Kumar
(D) Vikas Swarup
Answer: (C) Mohan Kumar
Question: Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (BHEL) has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Russian company INTMA, to set up a gas-based power project in which country?
(A) Kazakhstan
(B) Turkey
(C) Bhutan
(D) Nepal 
Answer: (A) Kazakhstan
Question: Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai was recently sworn in as the first lady judge of which high court?
(A) Kerala
(B) Sikkim
(C) Delhi
(D) Mizoram
Answer: (B) Sikkim
Question: India on 16 April 2015 test-fired its nuclear-capable Agni-III ballistic missile, with a range of over 3,000 km, from a base in which state?
(A) Karnataka
(B) Andhra Pradesh
(C) Odisha
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (C) Odisha
Question: Which Indian cricketer was recently inducted into the prestigious Laureus Sports Academy?
(A) Rahul Dravid
(B) Saurav Ganguly
(C) Anil Kumble
(D) Sachin Tendulkar
Answer: (D) Sachin Tendulkar
Question: US President Barack Obama has recently honoured whom with 'Champion of Change' award?
(A) Kailash Satyarthi
(B) Venkatraman Ramakrishnan
(C) Sachin Tendulkar
(D) Satya Nadella
Answer: (D) Satya Nadella
Question: RBI recently notified that term deposits of Rs ___ lakh and below must have premature withdrawal facility?
(A) 15 lakhs
(B) 10 lakhs
(C) 5 lakhs
(D) 2 lakhs
Answer: (A) 15 lakhs
Question: Supreme Court on 17 April 2015 appointed whom to head a new investigating team to further probe the IPL-6 spot-fixing and betting scandal?
(A) Vivek Murthy
(B) Vivek Priyadarshi
(C) Ranjib Biswal
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) Vivek Priyadarshi
Question: Oil India, the nation's second largest state-owned oil explorer, on 17 April 2015 announced that it has commissioned a 54 MW wind energy project in which two states?
(A) Andhra Pradesh and Telengana
(B) Kerala and TamilNadu
(C) Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh
(D) Punjab and Haryana
Answer: (C) Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh
Question: World Haemophilia Day was observed globally on?
(A) 15 April
(B) 16 April
(C) 17 April
(D) 18 April
Answer: (C) 17 April
Question: According to draft regulations released recently by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), Life insurance policies sold through common service centres (CSCs) would have a maximum sum assured of?
(A) Rs 2 lakh
(B) Rs 5 lakh
(C) Rs 10 lakh
(D) Rs 25 lakh
Answer: (A) Rs 2 lakh
Question: Which player recently became England’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket?
(A) Stuart Board
(B) Joe Root
(C) Alastair Cook
(D) James Anderson
Answer: (D) James Anderson
Question: Who was appointed the Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly on 16 April 2015?
(A) Jagdish Pradhan
(B) Vijender Gupta
(C) Om Prakash Sharm
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) Vijender Gupta
Question: Pakistan and which country have recently agreed to hold first-ever joint military exercises as part of their enhanced defence cooperation?
(A) Nepal
(B) Bhutan
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Singapore
Answer: (A) Nepal
Question: Pakistan and which country have recently agreed to hold first-ever joint military exercises as part of their enhanced defence cooperation?
(A) China
(B) USA
(C) Russia
(D) India
Answer: (C) Russia
Question: Who recently took charge as India’s first cyber security chief under the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)?
(A) Ram Sewak Sharma
(B) Ramesh Negi
(C) Gulshan Rai
(D) Nasim Zaidi
Answer: (C) Gulshan Rai
Question: Who among the following has resigned as the president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on 1 April 2015?
(A) Mustafa Kamal
(B) Mahbubul Anam
(C) N Sreenivasan
(D) David Richardson
Answer: (A) Mustafa Kamal
Question: Farida Khambata was on 1 April 2015 appointed as the first woman independent director of which company, in it's 103-year history?
(A) Reliance Industries Ltd
(B) Aditya Birla Group
(C) Jindal Steel & Power Ltd
(D) Tata Group
Answer: (D) Tata Group
Question: Which country has recently developed an anti-ballistic missile system called “David’s Sling”?
(A) Saudi Arabia
(B) Russia
(C) China
(D) Israel 
Answer: (D) Israel
Question: Which state assembly on 31 March 2015 passed by a majority vote the controversial Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime Bill?
(A) Madhya Pradesh
(B) Mizoram
(C) Gujarat
(D) Punjab
Answer: (C) Gujarat
Question: Which state recently opened human milk bank named “Jeevan Dhara”?
(A) Haryana
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Kerala
(D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (B) Rajasthan
Question: Reserve Bank of India has recently approved the merger of ING Vysya bank with?
(A) State Bank of India
(B) Canara Bank
(C) ICICI Bank
(D) Kotak Mahindra Bank
Answer: (D) Kotak Mahindra Bank
Question: Name the massive air and sea operation launched by India recently to evacuate Indian nationals from Yemen?
(A) Operation Rahat
(B) Operation Meghdoot
(C) Operation Viraat
(D) Operation Megh Rahat
Answer: (A) Operation Rahat
Question: Genral Muhammadu Buhari was on 31 March 2015 elected as the president of which country?
(A) Brazil
(B) Maldives
(C) Nigeria
(D) Cuba
Answer: (C) Nigeria
Question: Recently, an 18-hour-old baby became India's youngest patient to undergo an open heart surgery. This surgery was performed by Fortis Escorts Heart Institute at?
(A) Delhi
(B) Chennai
(C) Mumbai
(D) Kolkata
Answer: (A) Delhi
Question: What will be the interest rate for Public Provident Fund for 2015-16 as announced by union government recently?
(A) 9.8 percent
(B) 8.7 percent
(C) 4 percent
(D) 9.2 percent
Answer: (B) 8.7 percent
Question: What will be the interest rate for Sukanya Samriddhi Account, the special deposit scheme for girl child, for the financial year 2015-16 as announced by union government recently?
(A) 9 %
(B) 9.1 %
(C) 9.2 %
(D) 9.5 %
Answer: (C) 9.2 %
Question: Which e-commerce company recently acquired majority stake in RupeePower as part of its plans to create a financial services marketplace?
(A) Snapdeal
(B) Flipkart
(C) Paytm
(D) Amazon 
Answer: (A) Snapdeal
Question: Daniel Vettori who recently announced his retirement from International Cricket is the player from which country?
(A) Australia
(B) West Indies
(C) New Zealand
(D) South Africa
Answer: (C) New Zealand
Question: President Mukherjee on 30 March 2015 presented the Padma Awards. Who among the following was not a receipient of Padma Vibhushan this year?
(A) L.K. Advani
(B) Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya
(C) Parkash Singh Badal
(D) Murali Manohar Joshi
Answer: (D) Murali Manohar Joshi
Question: Name the Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) commissioned into Indian Coast Guard’s Eastern Fleet on 29 March 2015 along with two Interceptor Boats named C-430 and C-417?
(A) Kalvari
(B) Amrut
(C) Virat
(D) Anagh
Answer: (D) Anagh
Question: Which state government recently banned sale, purchase, storage and manufacturing of all forms of chewable tobacco including guktha and pan masala containing tobacco?
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Kerala
(C) Delhi
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (C) Delhi
Question: Which state on 30 March 2015 became the first state assembly in the country to launch e-Vidhan Mobile app?
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Gujarat
(C) Kerala
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: (A) Himachal Pradesh
Question: Who was recently conferred with Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award?
(A) Varinder Singh
(B) Balbir Singh Senior
(C) Nandy Singh
(D) Charles Cornelius
Answer: (B) Balbir Singh Senior
Question: Name the freedom fighter and educationist who was on 30 March 2015 conferred the highest civilian award of the country Bharat Ratna (posthumously)?
(A) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(B) Abdul Kalam Azad
(C) Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya
(D) Mandan Mishra
Answer: (C) Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya
Question: Who was chosen as the Player of the Tournament in ICC Cricket World Cup 2015?
(A) James Faulkner
(B) Kumar Sangakkara
(C) Martin Guptill
(D) Mitchell Starc
Answer: (D) Mitchell Starc
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently launched the “Give It Up” campaign for voluntarily giving up ___?
(A) Drugs
(B) LPG Subsidy
(C) Ration
(D) Plastics 
Answer: (B) LPG Subsidy
Question: Who won the Malaysian Grand Prix racing on 29 March 2015?
(A) Nico Rosberg
(B) Lewis Hamilton
(C) Sebastian Vettel
(D) Fernando Alonso
Answer: (C) Sebastian Vettel
Question: Michael Clarke on 29 March 2015 retired from which form of the cricket?
(A) One Day Internationals (ODI)
(B) Test Cricket
(C) T20s
(D) All the above
Answer: (A) One Day Internationals (ODI)
Question: Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) has recently emerged as the largest party in the world with a membership of 8.8 crore. BJP has surpassed which party to achieve this record?
(A) Communist Party of China
(B) Libertarian Party
(C) Communist Party of the Soviet Union
(D) Scottish National Party
Answer: (A) Communist Party of China
Question: Which country recently won the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015?
(A) South Africa
(B) Australia
(C) New Zealand
(D) India
Answer: (B) Australia
Question: Who recently won the men's singles title at the India Open Super Series 2015?
(A) Chen Long
(B) Lin Dan
(C) K. Srikanth
(D) Viktor Axelsen
Answer: (C) K. Srikanth
Question: Saina Nehwal recently won women's singles crown of the India Open Super Series Badminton tournament defeating which player?
(A) Carolina Marin
(B) Ratchanok Intanon
(C) LI Xuerui
(D) Wang Shixian
Answer: (B) Ratchanok Intanon
Question: Who was recently honoured with Bishwaratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika International Solidarity Award 2015?
(A) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
(B) Shashi Kapoor
(C) Amitabh Bachchan
(D) Yash Chopra
Answer: (A) Adoor Gopalakrishnan
Question: Who was crowned fbb Femina Miss India World 2015 recently?
(A) Koyal Rana
(B) Navneet Kaur Dhillon
(C) Vanya Mishra
(D) Aditi Arya
Answer: (D) Aditi Arya
Question: Isro launched India's 4th navigation satellite IRNSS 1D recently using?
(A) PSLV-C27
(B) PSLV-C29
(C) PSLV-D24
(D) PSLV-E21
Answer: (A) PSLV-C27
Question: Which Australian cricketer recently announced his retirement from ODIs?
(A) David Warner
(B) Mitchell Starc
(C) Shane Watson
(D) Michael Clarke
Answer: (D) Michael Clarke
Question: Name the Social activist who recently resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party?
(A) Anna Hazare
(B) Medha Patkar
(C) MS Swaminathan
(D) Madav Gadgil
Answer: (B) Medha Patkar
Question: Which state government recently passed a law that bans the slaughter, trading and unauthorised transportation of camels?
(A) Rajasthan
(B) Maharashtra
(C) Himachal Pradesh
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: (A) Rajasthan
Question: Aziz Qureshi was on 28 March 2015 removed as the Governor of which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Goa
(C) Arunachal Pradesh
(D) Mizoram
Answer: (D) Mizoram
Question: Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan were sacked from the national executive of which party on 28 March 2015?
(A) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
(B) Communist Party of India (CPI)
(C) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
(D) Janata Dal United (JDU)
Answer: (C) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
Question: Poonam Mahajan recently became the first woman president of which among the following sports Federation?
(A) Basketball Federation of India
(B) All India Football Federation
(C) Badminton Association of India
(D) Sports Authority of India
Answer: (A) Basketball Federation of India
Question: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 28 March 2015 successfully launched India’s fourth navigation satellite named?
(A) IRNSS 1-E
(B) IRNSS 1-D
(C) IRNSS 1-C
(D) IRNSS 1-B
Answer: (B) IRNSS 1-D
Question: Ninth edition of Earth Hour was observed on 28 March 2015. The day is organized by?
(A) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
(B) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
(C) World Health Organization (WHO)
(D) World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
Answer: (D) World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
Question: Saina Nehwal created history on 28 March 2015 as she became the first Indian woman shuttler to attain the world number one ranking. Who has the distinction of being the first world No. 1 badminton player from India?
(A) Syed Modi
(B) Pullela Gopichand
(C) Prakash Padukone
(D) Chetan Anand

Answer: (C) Prakash Padukone

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS MAY 2015 (100 Questions)

Question: What is the name given to the massive rescue and relief launched by the Indian Army in Nepal?
(A) Operation Maitri
(B) Operation Seva
(C) Operation Rahat
(D) Operation Neeti
Answer: (A) Operation Maitri
Question: “Educate Encourage Enlighten” will be the new tagline of ____ as announced recently?
(A) CBSE
(B) New Education Policy
(C) Ministry of Human Resource Development
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) New Education Policy
Question: Maharashtra’s Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on 1 May 2015 filed an FIR against CEO of which e-commerce major on charges of for selling prescription drugs online?
(A) Amazon
(B) Snapdeal
(C) Flipkart
(D) eBay
Answer: (B) Snapdeal
Question: Which state government on 30 April 2015 issued a circular banning the use of the phrase “Horn Ok Please” on the rear side of commercial vehicles?
(A) Maharshtra
(B) Delhi
(C) Andhra Pradesh
(D) Uttar Pradesh
Answer: (A) Maharshtra
Question: Which bollywood actor was recently conferred the Pandit Dinanath Mangeshkar Award?
(A) Sharukh Khan
(B) Amitabh Bachchan
(C) Nazarudhin Shah
(D) Anil Kapoor
Answer: (D) Anil Kapoor
Question: International Dance Day is observed on?
(A) May 1
(B) April 30
(C) May 2
(D) April 29
Answer: (D) April 29
Question: Magnus Carlsen won Shamkir chess tournament on 26 April 2015. Magnus Carlsen is from which country?
(A) Spain
(B) China
(C) Switzerland
(D) Norway 
Answer: (D) Norway
Question: 14th edition of Indo-French naval exercise 'Varuna' concluded on 2 May 2015. It was held in which state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Goa
(C) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (B) Goa
Question: Army on 26 April 2015 conducted a major exercise, 'Akraman-II' in which state?
(A) Goa
(B) Odisha
(C) Punjab
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (D) Rajasthan
Question: Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) was recently adjudged the world's best airport for the year 2014, under the category of handling 25 to 40 million passengers per annum. IGIA is situated at?
(A) Mumbai
(B) Chennai
(C) Delhi
(D) Bengaluru
Answer: (C) Delhi
Question: NASA's Messenger spacecraft has recently crashed into the surface of which planet ending its historic 11-year mission?
(A) Saturn
(B) Mars
(C) Pluto
(D) Mercury
Answer: (D) Mercury
Question: International Labour Day is observed on?
(A) May 1
(B) April 29
(C) April 3
(D) May 2
Answer: (A) May 1
Question: Department of Telecom has recently extended the deadline to fully implement the mobile number portability across the country to?
(A) April 1, 2016
(B) October 2, 2015
(C) July 3, 2015
(C) January 1, 2016
Answer: (C) July 3, 2015
Question: What is the authorized capital of each Regional Rural Bank (RRB) as per the recent amendments in Regional Rural Bank (Amendment) Bill 2014?
(A) Rs.5 crore
(B) Rs. 100 crore
(C) Rs. 1000 crore
(D) Rs. 2000 crore
Answer: (D) Rs. 2000 crore
Question: Senior IPS officer Surender Singh was on 1 May 2015 appointed as the new DG of?
(A) BSF
(B) ITBP
(C) CRPF
(D) CISF
Answer: (D) CISF
Question: World Malaria Day is observed globally on?
(A) 21 April
(B) 25 April
(C) 27 April
(D) 30 April
Answer: (B) 25 April
Question: A powerful earthquake measuring 7.9 on Richter scale struck which neighboring country of India on 25 April 2015?
(A) Nepal
(B) Bhutan
(C) China
(D) Bangladesh
Answer: (A) Nepal
Question: Name the Eminent scientist who was recently conferred with Japan's highest civilian award for his outstanding contributions to science and Indo-Japanese science coperation?
(A) K Radhakrishnan
(B) APJ Abdul Kalam
(C) CNR Rao
(D) TKM Nair
Answer: (C) CNR Rao
Question: Which former Union Finance Minister was recently honoured with Officier de la Légion d’Honneur (Officer of the Legion of Honour), the highest French civilian distinction?
(A) Murali Manohar Joshi
(B) P Chidambaram
(C) Pranab Mukherjee
(D) Yashwant Sinha 
Answer: (D) Yashwant Sinha
Question: Microsoft on 29 April 2015 announced its next Web Browser’s name as?
(A) Invent
(B) Edge
(C) Pluto
(D) Micro Explo
Answer: (B) Edge
Question: Siddhartha Gigoo has recently won the 2015 Commonwealth Short Story Prize for Asia region for his book?
(A) Family Life
(B) Umbrella Man
(C) Indiscoverable Destiny
(D) My Life
Answer: (B) Umbrella Man
Question: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 28 April 2015 successfully tested an indigenous cryogenic engine from its propulsion complex at Mahendragiri which state?
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Kerala
(C) Karnataka
(D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (D) Tamil Nadu
Question: Who recently became New York's first Indian-American woman judge?
(A) Raja Rajeswari
(B) Sindhu Khullar
(C) Maya Subramanian
(D) Frieda Peter
Answer: (A) Raja Rajeswari
Question: A bill to amend the Regional Rural Banks Act of which year was recently passed by Parliament on 28 April 2015?
(A) 1951
(B) 1964
(C) 1976
(D) 1991
Answer: (C) 1976
Question: World Press Freedom Day is observed on?
(A) 1 May
(B) 3 May
(C) 5 May
(D) 7 May
Answer: (B) 3 May
Question: Name the Sail Training Ship of Indian Navy which recently left from Kochi on an eight month voyage named “Lokayan-2015”?
(A) INS Tarangini
(B) INS Rohini
(C) INS Vishakhapatnam
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) INS Tarangini
Question: Ten coaches of the Train no. 12223 LTT-Ernakulam Duronto Express recently derailed at the Salzora tunnel near Balli in which state?
(A) Maharashtra
(B) Karnataka
(C) Goa
(D) Kerala
Answer: (C) Goa
Question: Who presented the 62nd National Film Awards on 3 May 2015 at a glittering ceremony in New Delhi?
(A) Narendra Modi
(B) Pranab Mukherjee
(C) Arun Jaitley
(D) Hamid Ansari
Answer: (B) Pranab Mukherjee
Question: Loretta Lynch was recently sworn in as the 83rd Attorney-General and first African-American woman to serve as the top law enforcement official of which country?
(A) Britain
(B) Australia
(C) Malaysia
(D) USA
Answer: (D) USA
Question: Which club won the English Premier League title 2015?
(A) Chelsea
(B) Liverpool
(C) Manchester City
(D) Manchester United
Answer: (A) Chelsea
Question: Shuttler Lee Chong Wei who was recently handed a backdated eight-month ban for doping by the Badminton World Federation on 27 April 2015 is from which country?
(A) Malaysia
(B) China
(C) Singapore
(D) Japan
Answer: (A) Malaysia
Question: Capgemini has recently acquired IGATE for $4 bn. Capgemini is a Management consulting company headquartered at?
(A) Tokyo
(B) Paris
(C) New Jersey
(D) Mumbai
Answer: (B) Paris
Question: World Press Freedom Day is observed on?
(A) May 1
(B) May 2
(C) May 3
(D) May 4
Answer: (C) May 3
Question: Dr Prannoy Roy who was recently conferred the RedInk Award for lifetime achievement is the executive co-chairman of?
(A) CNN-IBN
(B) Time Now
(C) NDTV
(D) Doordarshan
Answer: (C) NDTV
Question: Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi who was recently in news as dead was the chief of which terrorsit organization?
(A) ISIS
(B) Boko Haram
(C) Hamas
(D) Hizbul Mujahideen
Answer: (A) ISIS
Question: Mazen Darwish who was recently honoured with UNESCO-Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize 2015 is the journalist from which country?
(A) Yemen
(B) Egypt
(C) Peru
(D) Syria
Answer: (D) Syria
Question: Ashraf Ghani who arrived in India recently on his first state visit to India is the President of which country?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) Afghanistan
(C) Maldives
(D) Saudi Arabia
Answer: (B) Afghanistan
Question: Who has recently received Golden Medal for Merit in Work of Spain?
(A) Rafael Nadal
(B) Roger Federe
(C) Usain Bolt
(D) Floyd Mayweather
Answer: (A) Rafael Nadal
Question: Which Indian has recently acquired a stake in Xiaomi Technology, the No. 3 global smartphone maker?
(A) Azim Premji
(B) Mukesh Ambani
(C) Sunil Bharti Mittal
(D) Ratan Tata
Answer: (D) Ratan Tata
Question: Floyd Mayweather Jr. who has on 3 May 2015 won the unified World Welterweight title of World Boxing Council, World Boxing Organisation and World Boxing Association defeating Manny Pacquiao is from which country?
(A) Philippines
(B) Kenya
(C) Australia
(D) USA 
Answer: (D) USA
Question: Hindustan Awami Morcha (HAM) is a new political party recently launched by?
(A) Prashant Bhushan
(B) Kisan Hazare
(C) Baba Ramdev
(D) Jitan Ram Manjhi
Answer: (D) Jitan Ram Manjhi
Question: Envoys of the Philippines and Norway were recently killed in a chopper crash happened in which country?
(A) Indonesia
(B) Pakistan
(C) Afghanistan
(D) Nepal
Answer: (B) Pakistan
Question: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on 8 May 2015 announced a ___ percent reduction in charges for transactions on its inter-bank ATM network?
(A) 5 %
(B) 2 %
(C) 8 %
(D) 10 %
Answer: (D) 10 %
Question: Mumbai sessions court on 6 May 2015 sentenced Bollywood film star Salman Khan to five years in prison, for killing a man in a hit-and-run accident happened in which year?
(A) 1991
(B) 2002
(C) 2009
(D) 2013
Answer: (B) 2002
Question: National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) recently recommended government to raise the ‘creamy layer’ criterion for OBCs from the present 6 lakh to?
(A) 5 lakhs
(B) 9 lakhs
(C) 10.50 lakh
(D) 12.50 lakh
Answer: (C) 10.50 lakh
Question: Name the political party of Prime Minister David Cameron which won the UK elections recently?
(A) Conservative Party
(B) Scottish National Party
(C) Labour Party
(D) Liberal Democrats
Answer: (A) Conservative Party
Question: Microsoft has recently announced that ____may possibly be the last Windows operating system?
(A) Windows Express
(B) Windows Edge
(C) Windows 10
(D) Windows 13
Answer: (C) Windows 10
Question: Which e-commerce company has recently acquired Bengaluru-based mobile app development platform company named Native5?
(A) Flipkart
(B) Myntra
(C) Snapdeal
(D) Amazon
Answer: (B) Myntra
Question: Achal Kumar Jyoti was recently appointed as the?
(A) Vigilance Commissioner
(B) Union Home Secretary
(C) Chairman of National Human Rights Commission
(D) Election Commissioner 
Answer: (D) Election Commissioner
Question: Which among the following has recently decided to introduce the concept of a Red Flagged Account (RFA) in a bid to minimize fraud risks?
(A) RBI
(B) SEBI
(C) PFRDA
(D) IRDAI
Answer: (A) RBI
Question: Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India has recently launched a new TV rating system in India. This will replace existing which rating system?
(A) TAM (Television Audience Measurement)
(B) TCRS (Television Content Rating Systems)
(C) House Hunters
(D) Eurodata
Answer: (A) TAM (Television Audience Measurement)
Question: Who was recently appointed as the new chairperson of the Children Film Society of India (CFSI)?
(A) Naseeruddin Shah
(B) Mukesh Khanna
(C) Saurabh Raj Jain
(D) Shashi Kapoor
Answer: (B) Mukesh Khanna
Question: Which among the following document was recently made mandatory for Central excise registration?
(A) Aadhaar Card
(B) Passport
(C) PAN Card
(D) All of these 
Answer: (C) PAN Card
Question: A Cow-urine refinery was recently inaugurated at Jalore in which state?
(A) Goa
(B) Kerala
(C) Bihar
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (D) Rajasthan
Question: Stuart Bingham who won World Snooker Championship is player from which country?
(A) UK
(B) USA
(C) Egypt
(D) South Africa
Answer: (A) UK
Question: Which technology giant has recently launched a cloud computing-based offering named 'Edu-Cloud', designed to offer digital learning and teaching in schools and higher educational institutions?
(A) Goofle
(B) Facebook
(C) Yahoo
(D) Microsoft
Answer: (D) Microsoft
Question: Land Boundary Agreement Bill to allow the operationalisation of the 1974 India-Bangladesh Land Boundary agreement was recently numbered as the 119th Constitution Amendment Bill. When it was passed, it became the Constitution ___th Amendment Bill?
(A) 99
(B) 100
(C) 101
(D) 111
Answer: (B) 100
Question: Asian Youth Athletic Championship 2015 which began recently is being held in?
(A) Pune, India
(B) Doha, Qatar
(C) Daka, Bangaldesh
(D) Seoul, South Korea
Answer: (B) Doha, Qatar
Question: Jonathan Trott who has recently retired from International Cricket is from which country?
(A) England
(B) West Indies
(C) Australia
(D) Ireland
Answer: (A) England
Question: Indian Army on 5 May 2015 inducted which indigenously developed supersonic surface-to-air missile which is capable of targeting enemy helicopters, aircraft and UAVs from a range of 25 km?
(A) Tejas
(B) Pinaka
(C) Akash
(D) Dhanush
Answer: (C) Akash
Question: India has recently extended e-tourist visa scheme to ___ more countries?
(A) 13
(B) 20
(C) 31
(D) 46
Answer: (C) 31
Question: Nadia district in which state was recently declared as the first 'open defecation-free' district in India?
(A) West Bengal
(B) Bihar
(C) Jharkhand
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (A) West Bengal
Question: NASA’s Messenger spacecraft has recently crashed into the surface of which planet?
(A) Mercury
(B) Pluto
(C) Venus
(D) Mars
Answer: (A) Mercury
Question: Which Indian was recently elected unopposed as Asian Football Confederation (AFC) vice-president?
(A) Jyotiraditya Scindia
(B) Praful Patel
(C) Sachin Pilot
(D) Arun Jaitley
Answer: (B) Praful Patel
Question: Which team emerged champions in the 19th Federation Cup national senior athletic championship recently?
(A) Railways
(B) Services
(C) Indian Army
(D) ITBP 
Answer: (C) Indian Army
Question: Name the gender-neutral new title that could soon join Mr, Mrs, Miss and Ms as an honorific for transgender people in Oxford English Dictionary?
(A) Mx
(B) Mgy
(C) Mes
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Mx
Question: World’s largest flag was recently unfurled in which country?
(A) India
(B) Tunisia
(C) Chile
(D) Belgium
Answer: (B) Tunisia
Question: Recently BHEL has commissioned Bijlee Utpadan’s thermal unit in which state?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Haryana
(D) Bihar
Answer: (D) Bihar
Question: World Asthma Day 2015 is observed globally on?
(A) May 5
(B) May 1
(C) May 3
(D) May 4
Answer: (A) May 5
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently joined social media platform Weibo popular in which country?
(A) Russia
(B) USA
(C) China
(D) France
Answer: (C) China
Question: Who recently won the men's singles Madrid Masters tennis title?
(A) Andy Murray
(B) Rafael Nadal
(C) Novak Djokovic
(D) Roger Federer
Answer: (A) Andy Murray
Question: Department of Posts on 11 May 2015 launched a dedicated E-Commerce Centre at?
(A) Chennai
(B) New Delhi
(C) Mumbai
(D) Kochi
Answer: (B) New Delhi
Question: French President Francois Hollande recently became the first president of France to visit which country?
(A) USA
(B) Russia
(C) Cuba
(D) Egypt
Answer: (C) Cuba
Question: India's first private greenfield airport named Kazi Nazrul Islam airport was recently inaugurated in which state?
(A) West Bengal
(B) Kerala
(C) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Goa
Answer: (A) West Bengal
Question: Which high court recently acquitted former TN CM Jayalalithaa in the disproportionate assets case?
(A) Kerala high court
(B) Karnataka high court
(C) Tamil Nadu high court
(D) Delhi high court
Answer: (B) Karnataka high court
Question: National Technology Day was observed on?
(A) May 5
(B) May 20
(C) May 11
(D) May 31
Answer: (C) May 11
Question: Justice (retired) Cyriac Joseph was on 11 May 2015 authorised to act as the Chairperson of?
(A) Central Vigilance Commission
(B) UPSC
(C) Central Knowledge Commission
(D) National Human Rights Commission
Answer: (D) National Human Rights Commission
Question: Newly formed BRICS Bank will have its headquarters at?
(A) New Delhi
(B) Durban
(C) Moscow
(D) Shanghai
Answer: (D) Shanghai
Question: Who was recently appointed as the first president of recently formed BRICS bank?
(A) KV Kamath
(B) Aravind Panagariya
(C) Montek Singh Ahluwalia
(D) Duvvuri Subbarao
Answer: (A) KV Kamath
Question: Which company has emerged as the only Indian company among the world's 10 biggest consumer financial services firms recently?
(A) Infosys
(B) HDFC
(C) TCS
(D) IOC
Answer: (B) HDFC
Question: Who won the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix on 10 May 2015?
(A) Nico Rosberg
(B) Lewis Hamilton
(C) Sebastain Vettel
(D) Philp Masa
Answer: (A) Nico Rosberg
Question: Who was recently renominated as Public Accounts Committee chairman?
(A) Murali Manohar Joshi
(B) P. C. Chacko
(C) L K Advani
(D) KV Thomas
Answer: (D) KV Thomas
Question: Veteran actor-filmmaker Shashi Kapoor was presented the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke award on 10 May 2015 by?
(A) Pranab Mukherjee
(B) Arun Jaitley
(C) Hamid Ansari
(D) Amitabh Bachchan 
Answer: (B) Arun Jaitley
Question: Who was on 8 May 2015 appointed as a member of UPSC becoming the first officer from RAW to be appointed as UPSC member?
(A) Arvind Saxena
(B) Tarun Rajpal
(C) Vikas Subramanian
(D) Kiran Kumar
Answer: (A) Arvind Saxena
Question: Who was on 8 May 2015 declared the Sportsperson of the Year' at the Times of India Sports Awards?
(A) Jitu Rai
(B) Vikas Gowda
(C) Virat Kohli
(D) Pankaj Advani
Answer: (A) Jitu Rai
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 May 2015 inaugurated a revamped and modernized 2.5 million tonne steel plant of IISCO at Burnpur in which state?
(A) Bihar
(B) Chattisgarh
(C) West Bengal
(D) Haryana
Answer: (C) West Bengal
Question: World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared which country as free of the Ebola virus, confirming that the country has had no new cases in 42 days?
(A) Sudan
(B) Guinea
(C) Sierra Leone
(D) Liberia
Answer: (D) Liberia
Question: Indian Navy commissioned Porbandar base on 9 May 2015 and named it as?
(A) INS Sardar Patel
(B) INS Mahatma Gandhi
(C) INS Madan Malviya
(D) INS Veer Savrakar
Answer: (A) INS Sardar Patel
Question: An advanced version of the BrahMos land-attack cruise missile was successfully test-fired on 9 May 2015 from the Car Nicobar Islands at?
(A) Odisha
(B) Arabian Sea
(C) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
(D) Lakshwadeep
Answer: (C) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 9 May 2015 announced three flagship social security schemes in West Bengal. Which among the following is not among them?
(A) Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Yojana (PMJJBY)
(B) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Kalyan Yojana (PMSKBY)
(C) Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
(D) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
Answer: (B) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Kalyan Yojana (PMSKBY)
Question: Which Union Ministry has recently received an ISO 9001:2008 certification from the British Standards Institute?
(A) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
(B) Ministry of Finance
(C) Ministry of Communication and Information Technology
(D) None of these
Answer: (A) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Question: Which union ministry recently launched a scheme called ‘Operation Five Minutes’?
(A) Ministry of External Affairs
(B) Ministry of Railways
(C) Ministry of Tourism
(D) All of these
Answer: (B) Ministry of Railways  [Purchase of an unreserved ticket within five minutes.]
Question: Which telecom company on 23 April 2015 announced unlimited free calling scheme during night hours from its fixed line phones to any operator including mobile phones anywhere in the country from 1 May?
(A) Reliance
(B) Airtel
(C) BSNL
(D) Idea
Answer: (C) BSNL
Question: Calbuco volcano in which country has erupted recently for the first time in more than 42 years?
(A) Chile
(B) Turkey
(C) Syria
(D) Egypt
Answer: (A) Chile
Question: Which country has been named happiest country in the world as per latest World Happiness Report?
(A) Belgium
(B) Norway
(C) Singapore
(D) Switzerland
Answer: (D) Switzerland
Question: National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) on 23 April 2015 signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with which e-commerce giant to roll out digital marketing courses?
(A) Myntra
(B) Flipkart
(C) Snapdeal
(D) Amazon
Answer: (C) Snapdeal
Question: India and which country on 23 April 2015 began 10-day naval exercise named 'Varuna'?
(A) France
(B) Bhutan
(C) Indonesia
(D) Sri Lanka
Answer: (A) France
Question: United Nations (UN) observes World Book and Copyright Day across the world on?
(A) April 22
(B) April 25
(C) April 30
(D) April 23
Answer: (D) April 23
Question: Who was on 22 April 2015 appointed as the Director General of Railway Protection Force (RPF)?
(A) Krishna Choudhary
(B) Rajiva Ranjan Verma
(C) Ranjit Sinha
(D) P. K. Mehta 
Answer: (B) Rajiva Ranjan Verma
Question: Name the Indian-American who was recently sworn-in as the U.S. Surgeon-General?
(A) Raja Rajeswari
(B) John Davis
(C) Vivek Murthy
(D) Krishna Krishnakumar

Answer: (C) Vivek Murthy

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS JUNE 2015 (92 Questions)

Question: Name the city that became the seventh Indian city to have a metro rail system after unveiling of the first metro train on 29th June’15?
(A) Chennai
(B) Kerala
(C) Lucknow
(D) Jaipur
Answer: (A) Chennai - Chennai became the 7th Indian city to have the metro rail system after Kolkata, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Gurgaon, Mumbai and Jaipur. 
Question: Name the Indian boxer who has signed a multi-year promotional agreement with Queensberry Promotions and turned professional on 29th June’15?
(A) Mary Kom
(B) Jitendra Kumar
(C) Vijender Singh
(D) Mohammad Ali Qamar
Answer: (C) Vijender Singh - Vijender Singh, the superstar of Indian amateur boxing, has now turned professional. The announcement for this lucrative deal was signed at a star-studded media conference in London on 29th June’15.
Question: According to the data provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to the Finance Ministry, which bank has topped the list of public sector lenders with maximum bad loans including restructured assets as a percentage of total advances?
(A) Punjab National Bank
(B) Bank of India
(C) United Bank of India
(D) Allahabad Bank
Answer: (C) United Bank of India -  United Bank of India's 21.5 per cent assets are either bad or have been restructured to save them from turning non-performing assets (NPAs).The other banks that have significant amount of gross NPAs and restructured loans include, Central Bank of India (21.30 per cent), Indian Overseas Bank (19.40 per cent), Punjab & Sind Bank (18.74 per cent) and Punjab National Bank (17.94 per cent), as of March 2015.
Question: Who has been conferred with the 28th Moortidevi Award for his path breaking creation 'Vyomkesh Darvesh' a fictional biography?
(A) Balasaheb Nemade
(B) Mamta Kalia
(C) Kedar Nath Singh
(D) Dr. Vishwanath Tripathi
Answer: (D) Dr. Vishwanath Tripathi - Vyomkesh Darvesh is a fictional biography of noted Hindi critic Acharya Hazariprasad Dwivedi. Born on February 16, 1931, Dr. Tripathi has a number of original creations like Lokwadi Tulsidas, Meera Ka Kavya, Kuch Kahaniya Kuch Vichar and several others to his credit.
Question: Name the book released on 29th June’15 by the Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari based on the selected speeches of Prof. Ram Gopal Yadav, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha)?
(A) Sanghe Shakti
(B) Sangharsh Ke Prayog
(C) Vikaas Ki Raah
(D) Samajwaad
Answer: (B) Sangharsh Ke Prayog -  The book is a collection of selected speeches by Prof. Ram Gopal Yadav, MP (RS) delivered at various places during past three decades including a few in Parliament.
Question: Which state has been provisionally selected as a venue for the FIFA under 17 World Cup 2017 on 29th June’15?
(A) Assam
(B) West Bengal
(C) Karnataka
(D) Goa
Answer: (D) Goa - Tournament Director of FIFA U17 World Cup Javier Ceppi on 29th June’15 announced Goa as the sixth venue and handed over a provisional selection contract to the Sports Minister of Go(A) Delhi, Kolkata, Navi Mumbai, Guwahati, and Kochi have already been provisionally selected for the tournament. FIFA is to ratify the venues after inspecting the selected grounds and stadium in September 2016. In all 52 matches will be played in venues in India during 2017 Under 17 FIFA World Cup and India with a direct entry will be participating first time in a FIFA World Cup.
Question: Name the player appointed as the Captain of the Indian Cricket team for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour?
(A) Ajinkya Rahane
(B) Shikhar Dhawan
(C) Virat Kohli
(D) Robin Uthappa
Answer: (A) Ajinkya Rahane -  The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the Indian Cricket team on 29th June’15. The Indian cricket team will tour Zimbabwe for three One-Day Internationals (ODI) and two Twenty-20 Internationals.
Question: As per the NASA report, which day will have an extra or leap second?
(A) 30th June 2016
(B) 30th June 2017
(C) 30th June 2015
(D) 30th June 2022
Answer: (C) 30th June 2015  - June 30 this year will officially be a bit longer than usual because an extra second, or 'leap' second, will be added to the day. Daniel MacMillan of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Centre said that the Earth's rotation is gradually slowing down a bit, so leap seconds are a way to account for that. Strictly speaking, a day lasts 86,400 seconds. That is the case, according to the time standard that people use in their daily lives - Coordinated Universal Time, or UT(C) However, the mean solar day - the average length of a day, based on how long it takes Earth to rotate, is about 86,400.002 seconds long.
Question: In which month direct air services between India and Canada would resume?
(A) August’15
(B) July’15
(C) October’15
(D) November’15
Answer: (D) November’15 - Direct air services between India and Canada, would resume in November when Air Canada starts a non-stop flight to New Delhi from Toronto
Question: The 9th Statistics Day was observed on _____.
(A) 28th June’15
(B) 29th June’15
(C) 30th June’15
(D) 1st July’15
Answer: (B) 29th June’15 - The Statistics Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Late Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis.
Question: India will adopt from July 22 a new method to set the overnight interest rate benchmark.The new method will replace the current Mumbai Inter-Bank Offer Rate (MIBOR), and now will be called the FBIL Overnight MIBOR, and thus administered by the (FBIL). Expand FBIL.
(A) Board of Financial Benchmarks India Private Ltd
(B) Beaureu of Financial Benchmarks India Private Ltd
(C) Board of Financial Benchmarks India Public Ltd
(D) Board of Financial Banking Institutions of India Private Ltd
Answer: (A) Board of Financial Benchmarks India Private Ltd
Question: European Space Agency (ESA) launched a satellite that will give its ambitious Copernicus Earth observation project “_______________________” by delivering valuable images that could help forecast crop harvests and respond to humanitarian crises.
(A)Light vision
(B)Imagery Colors
(C)Color Light Vision
(D)Color Vision
Answer: (D)Color Vision
Question: ___________________ on 21 June 2015 won the European Team Athletics Championships by winning 10 of the 40 events on the program. The championships were held in Cheboksary, Russia.
(A)England
(B)Germany
(C)France
(D) Russia
Answer: (D) Russia
Question: The World Bank promised _________________________ to help Nepal rebuild after two earthquakes killed nearly 9,000 people there in April and May.
(A) USD 300 million
(B) USD 500 million
(C) USD 800 million
(D) USD 900 million
Answer: (B) USD 500 million
Question: This fiscal year India is planning to inject about___________into state-owned banks and could double that amount next year. This step is taken to boost capital and help lenders meet the global Basel III regulatory requirements. The planned capital infusion into the banks is more than double of an earlier estimate of $1.25 billion made in this year’s budget.
(A) $2 billion
(B) $3 billion
(C) $4 billion
(D) $5 billion
Answer: (B) $3 billion 
Question: Japan marked the ________ anniversary of the end of the Battle of Okinawa which killed a quarter of its population. More than 100,000 Okinawans and 80,000 Japanese troops died in the 82-day battle for the strategically placed island chain.
(A)64th
(B)65th
(C)68th
(D)70th
Answer: (D) 70th
Question: UK is making changes to its immigration rules. According to which, persons from outside the European Union should be earning £35,000 or more in order to be able to stay in the UK after six years.
(A)£25,000
(B)£35,000
(C)£45,000
(D)£60,000
Answer: (B)£35,000.
Question: Typhoon Kujira, __________typhoon of 2015,made landfall in south China’s Hainan Province on Monday evening-22nd june.
(A)6th
(B)7th
(C)8th
(D)9th
Answer: (C)8th
Question: ______________________government has declared Blue Mormon as the state butterfly. By doing this, its has become the first state to have a state butterfly.
(A)Maharashtra
(B)Assam
(C)Jharkhand
(D)Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: (A)Maharashtra
Question: ______________________government has declared June 22 as the ‘Snake Bird Day’ aspart of a campaign to protect the endangered species. Snake bird is a large slender long-necked water bird and is mostly black with silver wing markings
(A)Kerala
(B)Orissa
(C)Karnataka
(D)Telangana
Answer: (A)Kerala  
Question: _________________________ topped the list of states commissioning grid connected solar power projects in the country with an installed capacity of 1147 megawatt. The list was released by the Union ministry of New and Renewable Energy on 4 June 2015.
(A)Maharashtra
(B)Madhya Pradesh
(C) Rajasthan
(D)Tamil Nadu
Answer: (C) Rajasthan
Question: The Central government will start 26 de-addiction cum rehabilitation centres across Punjab to curb the menace of drug abuse. The first type such centre will start from ____________________________on June 26 on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
(A)Amritsar
(B)Hoshiarpur
(C)Moga
(D)Ludhiana
Answer: (B)Hoshiarpur
Question: Who recently won the 2015 Canada Grand Prix of Formula 1?
(A) Nico Rosberg
(B) Sebastian Vettel
(C) Lewis Hamilton
(D) Felipe Massa
Answer: (C) Lewis Hamilton
Question: World Ocean Day was observed on?
(A) 8 June
(B) 9 June
(C) 5 June
(D) 7 June
Answer: (A) 8 June
Question: Who was recently appointed as new Central Vigilance Commissioner?
(A) T.M. Bhasin
(B) KV Chowdary
(C) Pradeep Kumar
(D) None of these
Answer: (B) KV Chowdary
Question: 16th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) informally known as the “Bollywood Oscars, was recently held at?
(A) UK
(B) Rome
(C) Singapore
(D) Malaysia
Answer: (D) Malaysia
Question: Who was recently appointed as the new Chief Information Commissioner?
(A) Vijai Sharma
(B) Sudhir Bhargava
(C) Basanth Seth
(D) KV Chowdary
Answer: (A) Vijai Sharma
Question: India and which country on 8 June 2015 signed a Memorandum of Understanding for development of vaccines?
(A) Russia
(B) Netherlands
(C) Singapore
(D) South Africa
Answer: (B) Netherlands
Question: Who won the French Open women's singles title 2015?
(A)  Lucie Safarova
(B) Maria Sharapova
(C) Bethanie Mattek-Sands
(D) Serena Williams
Answer: (D) Serena Williams
Question: Who won the French Open Men's singles title 2015?
(A) Novak Djokovic
(B) Andy Murray
(C) Stan Wawrinka
(D) Rafael Nadal
Answer: (C) Stan Wawrinka
Question: Who has been recently appointed as the new chief of the elite counter-terror force National Security Guard (NSG)?
(A) R C Tayal
(B) Manish Kumar Agrawal
(C) Rajender Pal Upadhyay
(D) J N Choudhury
Answer: (A) R C Tayal
Question: Which country on 07 June 2015 conferred its prestigious liberation war honour on former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his “active role” in its independence struggle?
(A) China
(B) Nepal
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Bangladesh 
Answer: (D) Bangladesh
Question: Dasaradhi Rangacharya who passed away recently was a legendary writer in which language?
(A) Telugu
(B) Kannada
(C) Bengali
(D) Marathi
Answer: (A) Telugu
Question: Which club on 6 June 2015 won the UEFA Champions League title?
(A) Real Madrid
(B) Barcelona
(C) Juventus
(D) Bayern
Answer: (B) Barcelona
Question: BCCI has recently appointed which former Indian player to coach the India Under-19 and A teams?
(A) VVS Laxman
(B) Rahul Dravid
(C) Ravi Shastri
(D) Sachin Tendulkar
Answer: (B) Rahul Dravid
Question: Indian and which country on 6 June 2015 signed a historic land boundary agreement settling a 41 year old boundary dispute?
(A) Bhutan
(B) Nepal
(C) Bangladesh
(D) China
Answer: (C) Bangladesh
Question: India’s first green police station was inaugurated on the occasion of World Environment Day 2015 at?
(A) Jaipur
(B) Kozhikode
(C) Darjeeling
(D) North Delhi
Answer: (D) North Delhi
Question: R Seshasayee was on 5 June 2015 appointed as the non-executive chairman of?
(A) Infosys
(B) TCS
(C) Wipro
(D) ICICI Bank
Answer: (A) Infosys
Question: Which country was the host country for the World Environment Day (WED) 2015?
(A) Brazil
(B) Italy
(C) China
(D) Australia
Answer: (B) Italy
Question: World Environment Day (WED) was observed globally on 5 June 2015 with the theme?
(A) Raise Your Voice Not The Sea Level
(B) Think.Eat.Save
(C) Green Economy: Does it include you?
(D) Seven Billion Dreams; One Planet; Consume with Care
Answer: (D) Seven Billion Dreams; One Planet; Consume with Care
Question: Ameenah Gurib-Fakim was on 5 June 2015 sworn in as the first woman president of which country?
(A) Sudan
(B) Maldives
(C) Mauritius
(D) Greece
Answer: (C) Mauritius
Question: Name the campaign launched by Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejunivetion Uma Bharti on 5 June 2015, aimed at turning one water stressed village in each district of the country into a water surplus village?
(A) Jal Kranti Abhiyan
(B) Jal Jyothi Karyakram
(C) Jal Samridhi Yojana
(D) None of these 
Answer: (A) Jal Kranti Abhiyan
Question: Bust (a sculpture) of Mahatma Gandhi was recently unveiled by President Pranab Mukherjee in which country?
(A) Britain
(B) Belarus
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Indonesia
Answer: (B) Belarus
Question: India recently finished third at Asian Athletics Championships 2015 held at?
(A) Wuhan, China
(B) Pune, India
(C) Kobe, Japan
(D) Guangzhou, China
Answer: (A) Wuhan, China
Question: International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression was recently observed on?
(A) June 5
(B) June 3
(C) June 2
(D) June 4
Answer: (D) June 4
Question: Which Indian Umpire was on 4 June 2015 included in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires for 2015-2016?
(A) Sundaram Ravi
(B) Sanjay Hazare
(C) Vineet Kulkarni
(D) V. Vikramraju
Answer: (A) Sundaram Ravi
Question: Delhi Metro on 4 June 2015 received its first driver-less train, equipped with several advanced features. In which country this train was built?
(A) China
(B) South Korea
(C) Japan
(D) France
Answer: (B) South Korea
Question: Which player was on 3 June 2015 conferred with the South Africa (SA) Cricketer of the Year Award for 2015?
(A) Hashim Amla
(B) J P Duminy
(C) AB De Villiers
(D) Dale Steyn
Answer: (C) AB De Villiers
Question: Irwin Rose who passed away recently was the joint Nobel Prize winner for Chemistry in which year?
(A) 2001
(B) 2013
(C) 1991
(D) 2004
Answer: (D) 2004
Question: Name the Union Health Minister, who on 4 June 2015 said four new vaccines would be added to the recently launched Mission Indradhanush — a flagship programme to immunise children against preventable diseases?
(A) J P Nadda
(B) Harsha Vardhan
(C) Ashok Gajapathi Raju
(D) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: (A) J P Nadda
Question: Which company on 4 June 2015 withdrawn its popular instant food Maggi from Indian markets, following ban in several states due to reports of harmful contents in its samples?
(A) Indian Tobacco Company (ITC)
(B) GlaxoSmithKline
(C) Nestle
(D) Hindustan Unilever
Answer: (C) Nestle
Question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee on 6 June 2015 flagged off the Kolkata-Dhaka-Agartala and which other bus service?
(A) Dhaka-Shillong-Kolkata
(B) Dhaka-Kolkata
(C) Dhaka-Dispur-Kolkata
(D) Dhaka-Shillong-Guwahati 
Answer: (D) Dhaka-Shillong-Guwahati
Question: Who recently won the Baileys Women’s Prize for Fiction 2015?
(A)Anne Tyler
(B) Ali Smith
(C) Rachel Cusk
(D) Hilary Mantel
Answer: (B) Ali Smith
Question: Belarus State University has recently conferred Professor Honoris Causa on President Pranab Mukherjee during his visit. Name the capital of Belarus?
(A) Minsk
(B) Oslo
(C) Victoria
(D) Seoul
Answer: (A) Minsk
Question: India and which country signed a new strategically important 10-year defence framework pact on 3 June 2015?
(A) United States
(B) Canada
(C) France
(D) Russia
Answer: (A) United States
Question: Who was on 3 June 2015 appointed as Special Envoy on Counter Terrorism and Extremism in the Prime Minister Office?
(A) Ranjit Sinha
(B) KV Chowdary
(C) Pradeep Kumar
(D) Syed Asif Ibrahim
Answer: (D) Syed Asif Ibrahim
Question: Which Railway zone on 3 June 2015 rolled out a non-AC coach lit by solar panels installed on its roof, which is the first rail coach lit by solar panels in India?
(A) Southern Railway
(B) Northern Railway
(C) North Eastern Railway
(D) Konkan Railway
Answer: (B) Northern Railway
Question: India on 3 June 2015 has signed a global pact on automatic exchange of information on?
(A) Financial Accounts
(B) Criminal Cases
(C) Passport Information
(D) Educational Reasearch
Answer: (A) Financial Accounts
Question: Who was recently conferred with the Asian Athletics Association President Award?
(A) Sachin Tendulkar
(B) Balbir Singh Senior
(C) Suresh Kalmadi
(D) Sharad Pawar
Answer: (C) Suresh Kalmadi
Question: Which city has recently become the sixth city in the country with a metro?
(A) Kochi
(B) Jaipur
(C) Pune
(D) Guwhati
Answer: (B) Jaipur
Question: Name the supercomputer which was dedictated to the nation by Union Minister Harsha Vardhan on 2 June 2015, which will help meteorologists in research and weather prediction?
(A) Panini
(B) Bhaskara
(C) Ramanujan
(D) Aryabhatta
Answer: (B) Bhaskara
Question: Who among the following was on 2 June 2015 retained as director of the Indian cricket team for the tour of Bangladesh?
(A) Rahul Dravid
(B) Duncan Fletcher
(C) Ravi Shastri
(D) Rahul Dravid 
Answer: (C) Ravi Shastri
Question: Which mobile operator recently announced that it will provide nationwide free roaming service starting June 15, 2015?
(A) Airtel
(B) Idea
(C) Vodafone
(D) BSNL
Answer: (D) BSNL
Question: Name the new web portal launched by Union Government on 2 June 2015 to track missing children?
(A) Indradhanush
(B) Lapata Vapas
(C) Khoya-Paya
(D) Vapas Laute
Answer: (C) Khoya-Paya
Question: Pawan Munjal was recently named as the new chairman of?
(A) Hero MotoCorp Ltd
(B) Mahindra & Mahindra
(C) Infosys
(D) TVS
Answer: (A) Hero MotoCorp Ltd
Question: Name the country's youngest state which celebrated its formation day on 2nd June 2015?
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Jharkhand
(C) Bodoland
(D) Telangana
Answer: (D) Telangana
Question: What is the current Repo Rate effective from 2 June 2015?
(A) 8.25 %
(B) 7.25 %
(C) 4.00%
(D) 6.25%
Answer: (B) 7.25 %
Question: Reserve Bank Governor Raghuram Rajan on 2 June 2015 cut the key interest rate (Repo Rate) by ___ percent?
(A) 1 %
(B) 0.25 %
(C) 0.5%
(D) Not changed
Answer: (B) 0.25 %
Question: Who has resigned as FIFA president on 2 June 2015?
(A) Loretta E. Lynch
(B) Jerome Valcke
(C) Gregory Paul
(D) Sepp Blatter
Answer: (D) Sepp Blatter
Question: Effective from 1 June 2015, service tax was increased from 12.36 per cent to ___ per cent?
(A) 14.36 %
(B) 15 %
(C) 14 %
(D) 13 %
Answer: (C) 14 %
Question: World Milk Day was recently observed on?
(A) 31 May
(B) 1 June
(C) 2 June
(D) 25 May
Answer: (B) 1 June
Question: Which Bank has recently decided to discontinue issuing slips after cash withdrawals at ATMs and will alert the customer through SMS?
(A) HDFC
(B) ICICI
(C) Federal Bank
(D) Axis Bank 
Answer: (A) HDFC
Question: Who among the following has topped the World’s most powerful women-2015 list?
(A) Janet Yellen
(B) Oprah Winfrey
(C) Angela Merkel
(D) Hillary Clinton
Answer: (C) Angela Merkel
Question: Union government has constituted a 10-member committee to review and revitalise public private partnership (PPP) mode of infrastructure development. Who will chair the committee?
(A) Y V Reddy
(B) TSR Subramanian
(C) K G Balakrishnan
(D) Vijay Kelkar
Answer: (D) Vijay Kelkar
Question: How many Indian's were there in the Forbes’ annual list of world’s 100 most powerful women released recently?
(A) Four
(B) Five
(C) One
(D) None
Answer: (A) Four [SBI Chief Arundhati Bhattacharya, ICICI bank head Chanda Kochhar, Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and HT Media Chair Shobhana Bhartia].
Question: Name Doordarshan's farmer-centric channel which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 26 May 2015?
(A) DD Kashtakar
(B) DD Kisan
(C) DD Mehanath
(D) DD Farmer
Answer: (B) DD Kisan
Question: Which E-commerce major has recently acquired Hyderabad-based mobile technology startup named MartMobi?
(A) Paytm
(B) Myntra
(C) Flipkart
(D) Snapdeal
Answer: (D) Snapdeal
Question: Which among the following body recently launched a cyber-security task force?
(A) SEBI
(B) NASSCOM
(C) ASSOCHAM
(D) RBI
Answer: (B) NASSCOM
Question: Nirbhay Sharma recently sworn-in as Governor of which state?
(A) Mizoram
(B) Arunchal Pradesh
(C) Sikkim
(D) Assam
Answer: (A) Mizoram
Question: Who won the CEAT International Cricketer of the Year award recently?
(A) Kumar Sangakkara
(B) AB De Villers
(C) Ajinkya Rahane
(D) Steve Smith
Answer: (A) Kumar Sangakkara
Question: Indian Banks' Association (IBA) on 25 May 2015 signed a wage agreement with unions and officers' associations. Accordingly, around one million employees of 43 banks, including state-owned ones, will get a ___% hike in salaries?
(A) 5 %
(B) 10 %
(C) 15 %
(D) 20 %
Answer: (C) 15 %
Question: Which bank has recently launched a voice password facility for users, through which customers can make transactions using just their voice, without using other means of authentication like a password?
(A) SBI
(B) HDFC
(C) Axis Bank
(D) ICICI Bank 
Answer: (D) ICICI Bank
Question: Who was recently appointed as Chairman and Managing Director of state-run National Fertilizers Ltd (NFL)?
(A) Manoj Mishra
(B) Raj Kumar
(C) Aman Kumar Sigh
(D) Pradeep Kumar Sinha
Answer: (A) Manoj Mishra
Question: Who recently won the CEAT Indian Cricketer of the Year award?
(A) Murali Vijay
(B) Ajinkya Rahane
(C) Virat Kohli
(D) Shikhar Dhawan
Answer: (B) Ajinkya Rahane
Question: Who was named Player of the Tournament in IPL 2015?
(A) Rohit Sharma
(B) Dwayne Bravo
(C) Andre Russell
(D) David Warner
Answer: (C) Andre Russell
Question: Name the renowned American mathematician and Nobel laureate who passed away on 24 May 2015?
(A) John Nash
(B) John Neumann
(C) David Blackwell
(D) Ernest Wilkins
Answer: (A) John Nash
Question: Name the bilateral naval exercise between India and Singapore which commenced on 23 May 2015 in Singapore?
(A) GARUDA
(B) Surya Kiran
(C) SIMBEX
(D) Mithra Sakthi
Answer: (C) SIMBEX
Question: Who was recently appointed as Managing Director (MD) of India’s home appliances maker Whirlpool?
(A) Sunil Sood
(B) Vijay Mayaram
(C) Anirudh Khelkar
(D) Sunil D’Souza
Answer: (D) Sunil D’Souza
Question: Who has recently won the Monaco Grand Prix Formula One (F World Championship title?
(A) Lewis Hamilton
(B) Nico Rosberg
(C) Sebastain Vettel
(D) Sergio Perez
Answer: (B) Nico Rosberg
Question: Which country on 23 May 2015 became first country in the world to constitutionally legalise same-sex marriage?
(A) Ireland
(B) Iceland
(C) Turkey
(D) Spain
Answer: (A) Ireland
Question: Jayalalithaa recently sworn in as the Chief Minister of which state?
(A) Kerala
(B) Karnataka
(C) Arunachal Pradesh
(D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (D) Tamil Nadu
Question: Which team won the Indian Premier League (IPL) title 2015?
(A) Chennai Super Kings
(B) Royal Challengers Bangalore
(C) Mumbai Indians
(D) Rajasthan Royals 

Answer: (C) Mumbai Indians

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2015 (296 Questions)

Question: As per the 'World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision' launched at the UN Headquarters in New York on 29th July’15, within how many years the population of India is expected to surpass that of China?
A. 2 years
B. 5 years
C. 6 years
D. 7 years
Answer: D. 7 years
The 'World Population Prospects: The 2015 Revision' launched at the UN Headquarters in New York yesterday projected that within seven years, the population of India is expected to surpass that of China. Currently, the population of China is approximately 1. 38 billion compared with 1.31 billion in India. Around and after 2022, India's population is projected to continue growing for several decades to 1.5 billion in 2030 and 1.7 billion in 2050, while the population of China is expected to remain fairly constant until the 2030s, after which it is expected to slightly decrease. According to the forecast issued in 2013, India was expected to surpass China's population by 2028 but the latest report predicts that India will overtake its Asian rival six years early by 2022.
Question: Name the new operating system launched by the Microsoft on 29th July’15?
A. Windows 8.2
B. Windows 8.5
C. Windows 9.1
D. Windows 10
Answer: D. Windows 10
Windows 10 will be offered as a free upgrade to most consumers. According to a Microsoft statement, upgrading to Windows 10 would be easy for customers having a genuine Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 PC or tablet. Microsoft said the Windows 10 is the most secure Windows ever. Armed with new innovative features like Cortana, an Xbox app and Microsoft Edge, the software would be available in 190 nations.
Question: Where would the last rites of former President APJ Abdul Kalam will be held on 30th July’15?
A. Chidambaram
B. Chennai
C. Medak
D. Rameshwaram
Answer: D. Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram was the hometown of APJ Abdul Kalam.
Question: For recruitment of which post Indian Air Force on 29th July launched a dedicated website?
A. Airmen Cadre
B. JCO
C. Flying Officer
D. Pilot
Answer: A. Airmen Cadre
The website airmenselection.gov.in was launched by Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel, Air Marshal S Neelakantan and dedicated to the nation today. Now aspiring candidates for airmen selection would be able to apply online for all recruitment tests.
Question: Name the athlete won the Tour de France 2015 on 26th July’15 to become the first Briton to won this most prestigious cycling championship twice?
A. Chris Jade
B. Chris Froome
C. Nairo Quintana
D. Alejandro Valverde
Answer: B. Chris Froome
Nairo Quintana and Alejandro Valverde secured the second and third position respectively.
Question: Which FM Channel has been allowed on 26th July’15 by Delhi High Court to participate in Stage-III of FM auctions?
A. Red FM
B. Radio Mirchi
C. Radio Mantra
D. BIG FM
Answer: A. Red FM
The court also quashed the Union Government’s decision of 15 July 2015 wherein Red FM was denied security clearance due to its association with Sun TV promoted by Kalanithi Maran who along with his brother Dayanidhi Maran is being prosecuted in cases of money laundering.
Question: For which rail link Union Government has sanctioned 1000 Crore rupees on 25th July’15?
A. Indo-Pak Rail Link
B. Indo-Bangladesh Rail Link
C. Indo-Nepal Rail Link
D. Indo-Myanmar Rail Link
Answer: B. Indo-Bangladesh Rail Link
1000 crore rupees sanctioned for the laying of 15.06 km long tracks to connect Indian Railways with Bangladesh through the North East. Out of 15.06 km length connecting Agartala with Akhaura railway junction in Bangladesh, 3.7 km would comprise of elevated corridor.
Question: In which district of Punjab terrorist attack took place on 27th July’15?
A. Kapurthala
B. Gurdaspur
C. Pathankot
D. Dinanagar
Answer: B. Gurdaspur
In Punjab, almost 12-hour long operation in Dinanagar police station in Punjab’s boder district of Gurdaspur has successfully accomplished with the killing of three highly armed terrorists. that four police personnel including one Superintendent of Police Baljit Singh and three home guard Jawans laid down their lives fighting terrorists who were holed up in the police station since about 5.30 in the morning.
Question: With which bank, the Government of India on 28th July’15 signed a $300 million loan to support the government’s flagship program, the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) that is aimed at improving the health status of the country’s urban population?
A. Asian Development Bank
B. World Bank
C. BRICS Bank
D. European Central Bank
Answer: A. Asian Development Bank
The loan – Supporting National Urban Health Mission – will reinforce ongoing government efforts under the NUHM to develop health systems in urban areas that can deliver quality health services and that reach the urban poor and vulnerable. It will focus on strengthening primary health care and also promote better coordination between health and urban sectors and opportunities for public-private partnerships. 
Question: Who has cancelled Sahara Mutual Fund license on 28th July’15?
A. Supreme Court
B. SEBI
C. BSE
D. CRISIL
Answer: B. SEBI
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has cancelled Sahara asset Management Company’s license. The market regulator in its order said that the company is not fit and proper entity to carry out the business of mutual fund. It said, Sahara’s fund management license would stand cancelled after 60 days from the date of the order. It has directed Sahara AMC not to take any new subscription from the investors including existing investors in systematic investment plans and also not to levy any penalties on the investors for not depositing the installments.
Question: In which city Indian Institute of Management (IIM) was inaugurated on 26th July’15?
A. Shillong
B. Pune
C. Shimla
D. Nagpur
Answer: D. Nagpur
It is Maharashtra's first IIM and is being mentored by IIM Ahmedabad. It will start its first batch with 60 students from a temporary campus in Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology this week
Question: Who has been appointed as the new Chairman of TRAI on 27th July’15?
A. Ajit Doval
B. R S Sharma
C. S K Banerjee
D. Rajesh Singh
Answer: B. R S Sharma
He is an IAS officer of 1978 Jharkhand batch and replaces Rahul Khullar, who had retired in May.
Question: What spot has been achieved by Indian women's wrestling team in 5th Senior International Wrestling Tournament Cup of the President of Republic of Kazakhstan in Astana?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: B. Second
Vinesh (48kg), Lalita Sehrawat (55kg) and Anita (63kg) put up impressive shows as they won all their bouts in their respective weight categories, while Sakshi Malik lost just one fight in 58kg division to help the eight-member team bag a silver medal at the July 23-26 event. The Kazakhstan tour is expected to help the Indian eves put up a good show at the World Championship, to be held in Las Vegas, USA from September 7-12, which will also be the first qualification event for Rio Olympics 2016.
Question: Which country has invited Indian investments worth 8 billion US dollars in infrastructure projects?
A. Iran
B. Israel
C. Afghanistan
D. Kuwait
Answer: A. Iran
Iranian Ambassador Gholamreza Ansari said in New Delhi that India should take advantage of the time before the western countries start making their investments after lifting of sanctions in the next 3-5 months.
Question: Who has banned the marketing of around 700 generic medicines for alleged manipulation of clinical trials conducted by India's pharmaceutical research company GVK Biosciences?
A. Indian Medical Association
B. European Union
C. United States
D. United Nation Organisation
Answer: B. European Union
The ban will come into effect on August 21. According to Germany's drug regulator, the Federal Institute for Medicines and Medical Products and it will be applicable to all 28 member nations. GVK Bio had vehemently denied the allegations. The company offered to conduct fresh studies of the medicines involved at its own cost.
Question: On 26th July’15 Social activist Anna Hazare protested at Jantar Mantar in the national capital over non-implementation of ______scheme.
A. One Rank One Pension
B. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
C. National Literacy Mission
D. Citizen Charter
Answer: A. One Rank One Pension
OROP is a long standing demand of ex-servicemen. The scheme will grant retired armed forces personnel pension parity with officers and jawans of the same rank who are retiring now. Joining ex servicemen in their protest, Mr Hazare warned the government to not go back on their promise to implement the OROP scheme. He also said war widows get a meager amount as pension in present times. The social activist said he will travel to other parts of the country to raise the issue and launch an indefinite fast on October 2 at Ramlila Ground.
Question: Name the former Prime Minister who will launch a hunger strike in New Delhi on 27th May’15 to highlight the problems being faced by farmers?
A. Manmohan Singh
B. HD Deve Gowda
C. Sharad Pawar
D. A B Vajpayee
Answer: B. HD Deve Gowda
Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda will launch a hunger strike in New Delhi to highlight the problems being faced by farmers, amid rising numbers of suicides by them, including in his home state Karnataka.
Question: 16th Kargil Victory Day was observed on ______.
A. 25th July’15
B. 26th July’15
C. 27th July’15
D. 24th July’15
Answer: B. 26th July’15
The Kargil war was fought from 3rd May to 26 July in 1999 against Pakistan intruders who in the winters of 1998 transgressed into this side of territory along the Line of Control and occupied fortified defences overlooking the National Highway 1-A in Drass, Kargil and Batalik of the Ladakh region.
Question: Who has been appointed as the coach of the Indian hockey team on 25th July’15?
A. Roelant Oltmans
B. Narinder Batra
C. Paul Van Ass
D. Injeti Srinivas
Answer: A. Roelant Oltmans
He replaces Paul van Ass, who was unceremoniously sacked after a bitter spat with Hockey India President Narinder Batra. The 61-year-old Dutchman, who has been associated with Indian hockey for close to three years now, will be at the helm of affairs at least till next year's Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The decision to appoint Oltmans was taken at a meeting between Sports Authority of India's Director General Injeti Srinivas and Batra.
Question: Name the athlete who won the 100-metres race at London Diamond League meeting on 25th July’15?
A. Usain Bolt
B. LeBron James
C. Marion Jones
D. Justin Gatlin
Answer: A. Usain Bolt
Olympic champion and world record holder Usain Bolt has blasted out a World Championship warning with a victory in the 100-metres race at the London Diamond League meeting. The Jamaican sprinter won in 9.87 seconds, the same time he had set in winning his heat earlier at the London Olympic Stadium.
Question: Name the country that qualified for the next year’s World T-20 Cricket tournament to be held in India?
A. Japan
B. USA
C. China
D. Oman
Answer: D. Oman
A five-wicket win over Namibia at the ICC qualifying event saw the Gulf minnows reach their first major international tournament. Victory also saw the ICC grant Oman a full T-20 status. The 16 teams who will compete in the final phase of the World T-20 are the 10 Test sides, plus qualifiers Scotland, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Afghanistan and Oman.
Question: In which state was the ‘Bahuda Yatra’ carried out on 26th July’15?
A. Assam
B. Karnataka
C. Odisha
D. Kerala
Answer: 
C. Odisha
Bahuda Yatra is the journey of the three chariots of the lords to Sri Jagannath Temple from Sri Gundicha Temple. After spending a week inside the Sri Gundicha temple, the deities commence their Bahuda Yatra on the 10th day of the Yatra. The Bahuda Yatra- Return Car Festival of Lord Sri Jagannath, Sri Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra organised at the holy town of Puri.
Question: On 25th July’15, which court has discharged the former capped cricketer S Sreesanth and all the other 35 accused people in the IPL-6 spot fixing case?
A. Bombay High Court
B. Delhi Court
C. Allahabad High Court
D. Supreme Court
Answer: B. Delhi Court
Other two prominent IPL players -- Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan -- who were on bail, like Sreesanth, were also discharged in the case. The three cricketers were representing IPL team Rajasthan Royals when the scandal broke. They were arrested in May 2013 for alleged spot fixing in some matches of IPL 6. However the court had granted bail to Sreesanth, and various others accused for lack of evidence against them.
Question: As per the NASA Report, on which planet flowing nitrogen ice glaciers have been seen on the surface along with an unexpectedly thick layer of haze in the atmosphere?
A. Mars
B. Kepler 452b
C. Pluto
D. Jupiter
Answer: C. Pluto
The latest discoveries are from the flyby prior this month of New Horizons that has revealed unprecedented views of the distant dwarf planet as a complex world. NASA associate administrator John Grunsfeld said that with ice, mountain ranges, and vast haze, Pluto is showing a diversity of planetary geology.
Question: Which government has finalized the National Litigation Policy 2015, after considering suggestions from various stakeholders and inter-ministerial consultations?
A. M.P. Government
B. Maharashtra Governemnt
C. Delhi Government
D. Union Government
Answer: D. Union Government
Minister of Law and Justice DV Sadananda Gowda said that Cabinet approval for phase-two of the mission mode e-court project with the cost of Rs 1786 crore has been secured last week. It will help establish a digital library networked with all the courts in the country with access to law journals, judgments and books.
Question: In which state, Health Ministry is rushing a team of experts to deal with recent outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Andhra Pradesh
C. Himachal Pradesh
D. Assam
Answer: D. Assam
So far 66 deaths and 365 JE positive cases have been reported from different districts of the State. Maximum numbers of deaths were reported from the upper Assam districts.
Question: Name the committee that has been appointed by the government in May’2015 to examine the matter related to levying of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) on Foreign Institutional Investors prior to April 2015?
A. Shah Committee
B. Rangrajan Committee
C. Singhvi Committee
D. Dhar Committee
Answer: A. Shah Committee
The government will soon take a decision on the Justice AP Shah Committee's report on applicability of the Minimum Alternate Tax, MAT, on foreign investors. MAT is a way of making companies pays the minimum amount of tax. The report comes against the backdrop of foreign investors dragging the government to court over applicability of MAT on capital gains made by them. The Income Tax Department had sent notices to 68 FIIs demanding around 603 crore rupees as MAT dues of the previous years with FIIs moving the higher court challenging this demand.
Question: Name the publishing group that has announced to sell the Financial Times Group to Japanese media firm Nikkei for £844m in cash?
A. Bennett & Coleman
B. Pearson
C. TATA McGraw Hill
D. Penguin
Answer: B. Pearson
On 23rd July’15 the FT Group’s current owner, Pearson, a British education and media conglomerate, said it would sell the paper to Nikkei for £844m ($1.3 billion). 
Question: Name the bank that received a universal banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) last year, will start banking operations from 1st Oct’15?
A. Bandhan Bank
B. Yes Bank
C. IDFC Bank
D. Commercial Bank
Answer: C. IDFC Bank
It received in-principle approval for operation in April 2014 and obtained the final approval on 24th July’15.
Question: To which country the First All Women Trans Continental Road Expedition from Delhi was flagged off on 23 July 2015?
A. Canberra
B. London
C. New York
D. Ottawa
Answer: B. London
The three woman participants, namely Nidhi Tiwari, Rashmi Koppar and Soumaya Goel, will reach United Kingdom in 55 days. During the journey they will cover a distance of 15000 kms via Myanmar, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium and France. This all women team will be travelling in one vehicle without any backup vehicle and the journey will be sponsored by Mahindra First Choice Wheels Limited.
Question: On 24th July’15 the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has struck a "landmark" deal to cut tariffs on $1.3 trillion worth of _________ products.
A. Information Technology
B. Agricultural
C. Nuclear
D. Defence
Answer: A. Information Technology
Under this deal WTO members updated organisation’s 18-year-old Information Technology Agreement (ITA) by adding more than 200 products to the list of goods covered by zero-tariff and duty-free trade.
Question: Name the assistant coach of the Hockey India who resigned from the post citing ‘personal reasons’?
A. Charles Felix
B. Jude Felix
C. Sean Abott
D. David Jude
Answer: B. Jude Felix
Question: Name the world’s first malaria vaccine approved by European Medicines Agency (EMA) on 24th July’15?
A. Insectsirix
B. Pestquirix
C. Mosquirix
D. Fliesquirix
Answer: C. Mosquirix
The scientific name of this vaccine is RTSS while its trade name is “Mosquirix”. It has taken 30 years to develop this vaccine and would be the first licensed human vaccine against a parasitic disease. World’s first-ever malaria vaccine has been developed by British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline in partnership with the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative. The EU regulators also recommended that the vaccine should be licensed for use in babies in Africa at risk of the mosquito-borne disease.
Question: Name the 10-year old golf wonder-kid from India who won the IJGA World Stars of Junior Golf event in Las Vegas?
A. Shailesh Kumar
B. Shubham Jaglan
C. Virat Singh
D. Hardeep Kaur
Answer: B. Shubham Jaglan
Shubham Jaglan from Delhi won the IJGA World Stars of Junior Golf event in Las Vegas on 23 July 2015 and just 5-days back he had pulled off a one-stroke win at the Junior World Golf Championships in California.
Question: On 23rd July’15, which court held that fundamental right given under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution do not give an institution or a person or a citizen the fundamental right to affiliate or recognition of their institutions within the meaning of the Article 19(6)?
A. Kerala High Court
B. Bombay High Court
C. Supreme Court
D. Delhi High Court
Answer: C. Supreme Court
The ruling was given by the apex court while dismissing a plea of the Kerala-based DM Wayanad Institute of Medical Sciences and others. The petitioners had approached the Supreme Court against the decisions of the Medical Council of India and the Central Government to refuse to recommend renewal of permissions for admitting students for MBBS course at their institute for the academic year 2015-16 following adverse inspection reports.
Question: Name the Earth-like planet discovered recently by NASA’s Kepler Telescope?
A. Kepler-252b
B. NASA-452b
C. Kepler-2015b
D. Kepler-452b
Answer: D. Kepler-452b
Kepler-452b is an exoplanet orbiting the G-class star Kepler-452. It was identified by the Kepler space telescope and its discovery was publicly announced by NASA on 23 July 2015. It is the first near-Earth-size planet discovered orbiting within the habitable zone of a star very similar to the Sun. It is the fourth-most Earth-like exoplanet known to date. The star is 1,400 light-years away from the Solar System; at the speed of the New Horizons spacecraft, about 58,536 km/h (36,373 mph), it would take approximately 25.8 million years to get there.
Question: On 23 July 2015 which state has approved Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Jan Van Vikas Scheme aimed at creation of comprehensive development of villages in the buffer zones of tiger reserves and around them?
A. Maharashtra
B. Gujarat
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Bihar
Answer: A. Maharashtra
The objectives of schemes are reducing the dependence of villagers on the forest and reduce the man-animal conflict and achieve sustainable development of these villages.
Question: Who has been named as the brand ambassador for “Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao” Campaign by the Haryana Government?
A. Parineeti Chopra
B. Priyanka Chopra
C. Madhuri Dixit
D. Mallika Sherawat
Answer: A. Parineeti Chopra 
Question: Name the Indian who successfully completed the Ironman Triathlon- one of the world's toughest races held in Zurich during July 2015?
A. Sangram Singh
B. Dilip Narayan
C. Piyush Grewal
D. Milind Soman
Answer: D. Milind Soman
Model, actor and international level athlete Milind Soman, who is revered for his lead role in series 'Captain Vyom', successfully completed the 'Ironman Triathlon'. The triathlon is considered one of the world's toughest races and had 2,000 participants which included seven Indians. The triathlon includes a 3.8-km swim, a 180.2-km cycle ride and 42.2-km run raced in that order without a break which the participants are required to complete within 16 hours to win the title of 'Ironman'.
Question: National Broadcasting Day was observed on ______.
A. 23rd July
B. 25th August
C. 27th September
D. 24th May
Answer: A. 23rd July
On 23rd July’1927, the Indian Broadcasting Company started radio broadcasting from Bombay station.
Question: Which city is named as the World Book Capital for 2017 by United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO)?
A. New Delhi
B. Vienna
C. Conakry
D. Monaco
Answer: C. Conakry
Conakry becomes the 17th city to be designated as World Book Capital, after Madrid (2001), Alexandria (2002), New Delhi (2003), Antwerp (2004), Montreal (2005), Turin (2006), Bogota (2007), Amsterdam (2008), Beirut (2009), Ljubljana (2010), Buenos Aires (2011), Yerevan (2012), Bangkok (2013), Port Harcourt (2014) Incheon (2015) and Wroclaw (2016).
Question: The Birth Anniversary of Chandrasekhar Azad was observed on ______.
A. 23rd July
B. 24th August
C. 24th June
D. 23rd June
Answer: A. 23rd July
Chandra Shekhar Azad (23 July 1906 – 27 February 1931) popularly known as Azad was an Indian revolutionary who reorganised the Hindustan Republican Association under the new name of Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) after the death of its founder, Ram Prasad Bismil. He is considered to be the mentor of Bhagat Singh and chief strategist of the HSRA.
Question: The Birth anniversary of Lokmanya Tilak was observed on _____.
A. 22nd July
B. 23rd July
C. 24th July
D. 25th July
Answer: B. 23rd July
Bal Gangadhar Tilak (23 July 1856 – 1 August 1920) born as Keshav Gangadhar Tilak was an Indian nationalist, journalist, teacher, social reformer, lawyer and an independence activist. The British colonial authorities called him "Father of the Indian unrest." He was also conferred with the honorary title of "Lokmanya", which literally means "accepted by the people (as their leader)”.
Question: Name the Indian American who has won the junior title at the latest US Powerlifting Association National Championships?
A. Hiren Patel
B. Hardik jalela
C. Amitoj Chhabra
D. Keval Thakkar
Answer: C. Amitoj Chhabra
Amitoj Chhabra lifted a total of 1,383 pounds in Las Vegas to win the junior title earlier this month. Son of a Punjabi father and a Nepali mother, Chhabra squatted 485 pounds, bench pressed 325 and dead-lifted 573. He has added 100 pounds to his dead-lift in the past year. Chhabra began powerlifting in December 2013 and started competing in May 2014.
Question: As per the 2015 Fortune Global 500 list, how many Indian companies were listed among the world’s 500 largest companies?
A. 117
B. 175
C. 7
D. 25
Answer: C. 7
Walmarrt retail giant has topped the list. The Indian companies on the 2015 Fortune Global 500 list are Indian Oil ranked 119 on the list with revenues of about 74 billion US dollars, followed by Reliance Industries, Tata Motors, State Bank of India, Bharat Petroleum, Hindustan Petroleum, and ONGC. Companies are ranked by total revenues for their respective fiscal years ended on or before March 31, 2015.
Question: As per the recent report by Thailand’s National Reform Committee, which city could be underwater within two decades?
A. Bangkok
B. Pataya
C. Mumbai
D. New York
Answer: A. Bangkok
Towering 20-storey skyscrapers and industrial development in Bangkok have contributed to the subsidence, the report said. Water resource experts said the capital, which stands between 0.5 and two metres above sea level, is sinking at a rate of 10 milimetres per year. The National Reform Committee has proposed a number of measures to arrest the problem, including reforms to urban development and better water resources management.
Question: On 23rd July’15, how many members of Anglo Indian Community were nominated to Lok Sabha by the President Pranab Mukherjee?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
Answer: B. 2
Prof. Richard Hay and Mr. George Baker have been nominated as members of the Anglo-Indian Community in the Lok Sabha.
Question: Government has decided to constitute an expert committee to comprehensively examine various issues like age relaxation, eligibility, syllabus and pattern of _________ exam.
A. CPMT
B. Civil Services
C. State Civil Services
D. Defence Services
Answer: B. Civil Services
Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha that government has received various representations on issues concerning the scheme of civil services examination on relaxation in maximum age limit and setting up of question papers in the regional languages for preliminary examination in the civil services. The civil services examination is conducted annually in three stages Preliminary, Mains and Interview to select candidates for prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others.
Question: On 25th July’15, in which city will the Prime Minister Narendra Modi launch Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY)?
A. Patna
B. Lucknow
C. Raipur
D. Ranchi
Answer: A. Patna
The Yojana is one of the flagship programmes of the Ministry of Power, which will help in providing round the clock power to rural households and adequate power to agricultural consumers. The scheme has an outlay of 76 thousand crore rupees for implementation of the projects under which Centre will provide grant of 63000 crore rupees. Projects worth 14680 crore rupees have already been approved, out of which projects worth 5827 crore rupees are approved for Bihar.
Question: Name the person removed from the position of Chief of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)?
A. Dr. Neeraj Gulati
B. Dr. Swaroop Govind
C. Dr. Ajay Mathur
D. Dr. R. K. Pachauri
Answer: D. Dr. R. K. Pachauri
Director General, TERI Dr. R K Pachauri has been removed. He will be replaced by Dr Ajay Mathur. Dr Pachauri was accused of sexual harassment by his junior colleague. 74-year-old Pachauri had shared Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 with former US Vice President Al Gore for work on climate issues. He has led and built The Energy and Resources Institute, TERI, over the last 34 years from a concept to a major, financially autonomous, professionally dynamic organization on the global stage.
Question: On 23rd July’15, The Supreme Court allowed state governments to exercise their powers of remission to release life convicts but this will not apply in some cases. Which are those cases?
A. Cases probed by central agencies like CBI.
B. For those incarcerated under central laws such as TADA.
C. Convict has been awarded life term in sexual offence cases of rape and murder.
D. Cases related to Tribal population.
Answer: A,B & C are correct
A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice HL Dattu, made it clear that this interim order would not be applicable in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case in which the Centre's plea against the Tamil Nadu Government's decision to grant remission for release of the seven life convicts is under consideration. The apex court modified its July 9, 2014 order by which it had restrained all states from exercising power of remission for releasing life convicts from jail in the wake of the controversy triggered by the Tamil Nadu Government's decision to grant remission for release of three such convicts, whose death sentence in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case was commuted to life term by it on February 18, 2014.
Question: Why did the Union Government on 21st July’15 extend Interest Subvention Scheme (ISS) to Public Sector Banks (PSBs), private sector commercial banks, rural regional banks (RRBs), cooperative banks and NABARD?
A. To ensure availability of crop loans of up to 5 lakh to farmers at 6% per annum
B. To ensure availability of crop loans of up to 10 lakh to farmers at 2.5% per annum
C. To ensure availability of crop loans of up to 3 lakh to farmers at 7% per annum
D. To ensure availability of crop loans of up to 8 lakh to farmers at 8.5% per annum
Answer: C. To ensure availability of crop loans of up to 3 lakh to farmers at 7% per annum
The decision to continue interest subvention on short term crop loans was taken by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the fiscal 2015-16.
Question: Which stock exchange has launched an enhanced online system for Non-banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to report data on pledged securities on a quarterly basis?
A. NSE
B. BSE
C. MCX
D. MCX-SX
Answer: B. BSE
BSE had launched an enhanced module for pledge reporting wherein the NBFCs shall be able to submit quarterly reporting of pledged data. This is in line with RBI's recent initiative vide its circular dated April 10, 2015. Currently, more than 65 NBFCs are using this platform on BSE. So far, the total value of promoters' pledged holding stands at nearly 2 lakh crore rupees on the exchange. On August 21, 2014, the central bank had directed NBFCs with asset size of 100 crore rupees and above to report online to stock exchanges, information on the shares pledged in their favour, by borrowers for availing loans. In its circular in April this year, the RBI had asked NBFCs to report data on pledged shares on a quarterly basis, among others.
Question: How many firms have been banned by SEBI which are suspected to be platforms for tax evasion?
A. 500
B. 600
C. 764
D. More than 900
Answer: D. More than 900
Suspecting tax evasion of at least 5,000 to 6,000 crore rupees, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has clamped down on a large number of organised syndicates who had set up shops to convert black money into legitimate-looking funds through the stock market platform.
Question: Which institute has developed a technique to decrease cholesterol level in Ghee (clear butter) in July’15?
A. National Dairy Research Institute
B. Central Drug Research Institute
C. National Fisheries Institute
D. Food Department of India
Answer: A. National Dairy Research Institute
Use of this technique will help in reducing the level of cholesterol in Ghee up to 85 to 90 percent. It also does not affect the taste and quality of the ghee.
Question: Name the convict whose curative petition of Mumbai serial bomb blasts has been rejected by the Supreme Court on 21st July’15?
A. Abu Salem
B. Yakub Memon
C. Tiger Memon
D. Chota Shakeel
Answer: B. Yakub Memon
He is currently lodged in the Nagpur central jail, will be executed by hanging on 30 July 2015. He had applied for curative petition after his review petition was rejected earlier by the SC upholding the death sentence to him.
Question: Name the person who resigned as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and President of Toshiba on 21st July’15?
A. Hisao Tinaka
B. Masashi Muromachi
C. Norios Sasaki
D. Atsutoshi Nishida
Answer: A. Hisao Tinaka
Hisao Tanaka resignation came as a backdrop of appointment of an independent panel by Toshiba which pointed that the firm had overstated its operating profit by a total of 151.8bn yen (1.22 billion US dollar). He will be succeeded by Masashi Muromachi, who is presently the Chairman of Toshiba.
Question: With which country has India signed Technical Agreement (TA) on sharing white-shipping information to enhance maritime cooperation between the two navies on 21st July’15?
A. Sri Lanka
B. Japan
C. Myanmar
D. Singapore
Answer: D. Singapore
The White-shipping refers to commercial shipping information about movement of cargo ships. The Singapore Navy and the Indian Navy conduct the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) together annually. In 2015, the SIMBEX was held in May, this was the 22nd in the series.
Question: Which city has emerged as the first nomination for Smart City Mission to be received by the Ministry of Urban Development?
A. Delhi
B. Mumbai
C. Puducherry
D. Chandigarh
Answer: C. Puducherry
In less than a month of launch of Smart City Mission by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Puducherry has emerged as the first nomination to be received by the Ministry of Urban Development. The Government of Union Territory of Puducherry has nominated its capital city for inclusion in the 100 Smart Cities Mission launched on the 25th of last month. Puducherry which has a population of 6,57,209 has done well in respect of several Stage-1 evaluation criteria and scored 75 of the possible 100 marks.
Question: The Government has sanctioned 15 PSLV launchers worth Rs 3090 Crores, which would be built during______.
A. 2015-17
B. 2016-17
C. 2015-20
D. 2017-20
Answer: D. 2017-20
The launchers proposed by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the coming years i.e. till March 2017 include Ten Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLV), Two Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicles (GSLV) and one developmental flight of GSLV Mk III.
Question: What is the rank of India among 31 countries in terms of power generation from nuclear source as per data published in May 2015 by Power Reactor Information System of IAEA?
A. 6th
B. 12th
C. 15th
D. 25th
Answer: B. 12th
There are thirty one countries including India in the world which generate electricity from nuclear source. India ranked at 12th position in terms of power generation. However, it stood at 6th position in terms of number of reactors in operation country- wise, globally.
Question: South-Eastern Railway is the first to introduce Suvidha train to connect Ernakulum and _______.
A. Secunderabad
B. Delhi
C. Kolkata
D. Ahmedabad
Answer: C. Kolkata
South-Eastern Railway is the first to introduce Suvidha train to connect Kolkata and Ernakulam, a distance of 2,294 kilometer in just 37 hours. The first Suvidha train of South-Eastern Railway will start running from first of next month between Howrah and Ernakulam.
Question: Name the spacecraft with 3 astronauts launched towards the International Space Station on 23rd July’15 after a two-month delay caused by a Russian rocket failure?
A. Soyuz
B. Hosung
C. Mikhail
D. Vostok
Answer: A. Soyuz
The spacecraft blasted off on schedule from Russia's Baikonur cosmodrome in the barren Kazakh steppe, carrying cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren and Kimiya Yui of Japan. The three astronauts were originally scheduled to travel to the orbiting lab in late May but Russia put all space travel on hold after the failure of the unmanned Progress freighter taking cargo to the ISS in late April.
Question: On 22nd July’14, The Centre has told the Supreme Court that Right to Privacy is not a fundamental right under the Constitution, and it cannot be invoked to scrap the _______ scheme.
A. Digital India
B. Jan Dhan Yojana
C. Aadhar
D. Kisan Credit Card
Answer: C. Aadhar
The court was hearing a batch of pleas against decisions of some states to make Aadhaar cards compulsory for a range of activities including salary, PF disbursements and marriage and property registration. Countering the contention that the scheme of Aadhar based on collecting personal data violates the citizens right to privacy, Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi said that there is no Fundamental Right to privacy so these petitions under Article 32 should be dismissed. The bench observed that if a court comes to the conclusion that the Right to Privacy is a Fundamental Right then Government cannot waive it, while the Attorney General said, if such issues are arising in the matter then why can't it be referred to a larger bench.
Question: On 21st July’15 the Supreme Court rejected plea of applicants for OBC status in Bank PO exam.Which community do the applicant belong to?
A. Bengali
B. Marwari
C. Gurjar
D. Jaat
Answer: D. Jaat
A bench of Justices Ranjan Gogoi and R F Nariman said that the issue has already been decided and there was no vested right in favour of Jat applicants. The apex court on March 17 had set aside the erstwhile UPA government's notification to include Jats in the central list of OBCs to accord quota benefits to them.
Question: On which day the New Development Bank (NDB) floated by the BRICS nations, including India, to step up infrastructure funding in the emerging economies formally started its operations at its headquarters in Shanghai?
A. 20th July’15
B. 1st July’15
C. 21st July’15
D. 19th July’15
Answer: C. 21st July’15
Chinese Finance Minister Lou Jiwei, Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong and the bank's President K V Kamath attended the opening ceremony. Kamath will be the bank's President for the first five years.
Question: Which country’s parliament has approved a law that imposes up to 20 years in prison on people convicted of throwing rocks at moving vehicle?
A. India
B. United States
C. Israel
D. Iraq
Answer: C. Israel
Israeli lawmakers voted 69 to 17 to increase the punishments, approving legislation proposed after a wave of Palestinian protests last year in East Jerusalem.
Question: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA, has approved a Home Ministry proposal to extend the deadline for implementation of Crime and Criminals Tracking network and Systems (CCTNS) project. What is the new deadline?
A. 2016
B. 2017
C. 2018
D. 2020
Answer: B. 2017
CCTNS will provide a number of citizen friendly services including police verification for passports, reporting a crime,linkage with UIDAI, National Population Register and transport database. A list of proclaimed offenders,sex offenders and most wanted criminals will also be published on this portal which will help law enforcing agencies as well as citizens.
Question: Which cricket stadium will host the final match of the 2016 World Twenty20 cricket tournament that will be held in India from March 11 to April 3 next year?
A. Eden Garden
B. Wankhede Stadium
C. FirozShah Kotla
D. K D Singh Babu Stadium
Answer: A. Eden Garden
Bengaluru, Chennai, Dharamsala, Mohali, Mumbai, Nagpur and New Delhi will be the other venues along with Kolkata, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on 21st July’15.
Question: As announced by Ministry of Railway what kind of tickets will be provided on cancellation of trains?
A. RAC e-ticket
B. Waitlist e-ticket
C. Refund Claim Ticket
D. Confirmed Ticket
Answer: A. RAC e-ticket
Ministry of Railways has decided to grant automatic refund of confirmed or RAC e-tickets on cancellation of trains similar to waitlisted e-tickets. An official release said, there shall not be any requirement for cancellation or filing of TDR for refund of e-tickets in case of cancellation of trains. This has become effective from 13th of this month. However, in case of cancellation of trains, PRS counter ticket shall continue to be refunded across the reservation counter as per the existing provisions.
Question: In collaboration with which company, National e-Governance Division concluded the Digital Wellness Online Challenge and reached out to around ten lakh children on digital wellness and security?
A. Microsoft
B. Intel
C. TCS
D. Infosys
Answer: B. Intel
Aimed at enhancing awareness on digital technology, an online quiz was designed to create awareness on benefits and threats of internet based interactions amongst children from classes 6 to 12.
Question: Name the campaign launched on 21st July’15 to create awareness and capacity building on Safe and Hygienic food for all?
A. Good Food for All
B. Hygienic for All
C. Surakshit Khadya Abhiyan
D. Swasth Khaanpaan Abhiyaan
Answer: C. Surakshit Khadya Abhiyan
Food security act is first step in addressing the food requirements and this new abhiyan is the second step as it ensures the safe food to consumers.
Question: Which country’s prime minister launched a five year plan to defeat Islamic extremism?
A. India
B. United Kingdom
C. USA
D. China
Answer: B. United Kingdom
Mr. David Cameron. PM of U.K. says the extremist ideology of the group, also known as ISIL, must be countered so Britain becomes a more cohesive nation in which young Muslims feel they have a stake.
Question: Which country has called on China to halt construction of oil-and-gas exploration platforms in the East China Sea close to waters claimed by both nations?
A. Japan
B. Myanmar
C. Mongolia
D. India
Answer: A. Japan
Japan has been concerned that Chinese drills could tap reservoirs that extend into Japanese territory. Japan's Defence Ministry added the demand to its annual defence review after members of the ruling party complained that its original draft was too soft on China. China resumed exploration in the East China Sea two years ago.
Question: Which online payment website that has requested Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to increase limit on money that can be kept in a mobile wallet to Rs. 25,000?
A. freecharge
B. Paytm
C. PayUMoney
D. PayPal
Answer: B. Paytm
Under the existing RBI norms, only a minimum know your customer (KYC) of the mobile number and e-mail ID verification is sufficient to hold Rs. 10,000 in a mobile wallet. For anything higher, a full KYC, similar to what is required for opening of a bank account, is mandatory. This maximum cash limit of Rs. 10,000 was set by the RBI some years ago.
Question: On 17 July 2015 which bank has announced its proposal of sharing profits with its employees as part of an initiative for talent retention and motivation?
A. Bank of Baroda
B. Bank of India
C. Punjab National Bank
D. State Bank of India
Answer: D. State Bank of India
SBI is seeking the government's permission to dole out up to 3% of its annual profits to staff in incentives in an attempt to draw top talent that normally make a beeline for private sector behemoths such as ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank.
Question: In which state the Salman Khan starrer feature film 'Bajrangi Bhaijan' becomes tax free?
A. Maharashtra
B. Gujarat
C. Haryana
D. Uttar Pradesh
Answer: D. Uttar Pradesh
The film director Kabir Khan on 20th July’15 met CM Akhilesh Yadav and requested him to exempt the film from entertainment tax after which the decision was taken.
Question: Who is the author of the book “Locale, Everyday Islam and Modernity” released by the Vice President of India on 20th julreleased by the Vice President of India on 20th jul’15?
A. Jamal Ahmad
B. Lavinder Singh
C. M. Raisur Rahman
D. Ajit Kumar
Answer: C. M. Raisur Rahman
This book presents the Qasbahs of colonial India as vital and vibrant centres of intense intellectual and cultural activity. The book demonstrates that the emergence of modernity among Muslims was a process during their colonial encounter in which Qasbah residents were active agents, and the Islam that emerged was that of everyday living. Through this book the author, an Associate Professor, Department of History, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA has explored why locales remain major identity-markers and what makes Qasbahs continue to evoke memory and nostalgia.
Question: Who is the author of the book 'Early Hindu Temples of Gujarat' released by the PM Narendra Modi on 20th July’15?
A. Ajay Kumar
B. Varun Maira
C. Santosh Singh
D. Amrinder Singh
Answer: B. Varun Maira
Question: Name the Indian men's hockey team chief coach who created a flutter by claiming that he has been fired by Hockey India?
A. Paul Van Ass
B. Narinder Batra
C. Rajesh Kalra
D. Jagdeep Singh
Answer: A. Paul Van Ass
The outspoken Dutchman says he was conveyed that his services were no longer required. Van Ass told PTI from The Netherlands that he was fired one week after the Hockey World League Semi-finals in Antwerp, Belgium. He, however clarified that he is yet to get official confirmation. Hockey India has outrightly denied that Van Ass has been sacked and said that he had not reported for his duty on the stipulated date.
Question: FIFA will hold a special election on February 26 to replace its President. Name the President.
A. Michel Platini
B. Sepp Blatter
C. Tim Jason
D. None of these
Answer: B. Sepp Blatter
FIFA will hold a special election on February 26 to replace President Sepp Blatter, football's scandal-tainted world body said as French football great Michel Platini moved closer to launching a campaign.
Question: Which of the following formats have been revamped by the BCCI as per the suggestions given by the Anil Kumble-led technical committee?
A. Gavaskar Trophy
B. Deodhar Trophy
C. Vijay Hazare Trophy
D. Both B and C
Answer: D. Both B and C
BCCI has decided to change the format of the Deodhar Trophy Inter-zonal one day tournament making it into a three-team affair from current five zones vying for top spot. The BCCI decided to implement the suggestions given by the Anil Kumble-led technical committee where in the Deodhar Trophy will feature four 50-overs matches across five days between 24th January to 28th January. Just like Challenger series, the Vijay Hazare Trophy champions will be one of the teams. It will compete with two other teams which will be selected by the national selectors from the performance of Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Question: In which state over 2,300 fuel pumps have stopped selling petrol and diesel to consumers as petroleum dealers have gone on an indefinite strike against hike in VAT on diesel?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Karnataka
C. Haryana
D. Delhi
Answer: C. Haryana
However, the fuel pumps, which are directly owned by oil companies like Indian Oil, BPCL and HPCL, are open. The petroleum dealers are demanding that tax on diesel should be lowered by 1-2 per cent than the rates prevailing in neighbouring states. Dealers have been demanding removal of 5 per cent surcharge on VAT and landing cost of crude oil at Panipat refinery from the state government.
Question: Who has taken over as the new Chairperson of Delhi Commission for Women, DCW on 20th July’15?
A. Swati Maliwal
B. Meenakshi Lekhi
C. Anuradha Shukla
D. Bharkha Shukla
Answer: A. Swati Maliwal
Mrs Maliwal, wife of AAP leader Navin Jaihind, has been associated with Arvind Kejriwal since India Against Corruption days. She was working as adviser to Delhi Chief Minister on public grievances and and handling Janta Samwad, before assuming the new responsibility. Promila Gupta, Farheen Malik and Sarika Chaudhary are members of the commission.
Question: Which celebrity on 20th July’15 said that he did not enter into any contract with Doordarshan to endorse its channel DD Kisan?
A. Salman Khan
B. Shahrukh Khan
C. Anupam Kher
D. Amitabh Bachchan
Answer: D. Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan said in a statement that he neither entered into any contract with Doordarshan, for DD Kisan, nor did he receive any money from them. There were reports that Bachchan was roped in for Rs 6.31 crore in the most expensive endorsement deal ever by an actor.
Question: Name the Nobel laureate who announced that his organisation will launch campaign for the upliftment of 100 million deprived children?
A. Kailash Satyarthi
B. Malala Yosafazai
C. Amartya Sen
D. T B Rajeshwar
Answer: A. Kailash Satyarthi
Noble laureate Kailash Satyarthi said that his organization Kailash Satyarthi Children Foundation will launch campaign for the uplift of 100 million deprived children. Delivering the K K Handiqui memorial lecture in Guwahati on 20th July’15, he appealed youth to be the part of his campaign.
Question: In which state, Union Road Transport Minister laid foundation stones of three road projects involving a total investment of Rs 3412 crores on 20th July’15?
A. Rajasthan
B. Haryana
C. Maharashtra
D. Uttar Pradesh
Answer: B. Haryana
While laying the foundation stones of Ambala-Kaithal and Yamunanagr -Barwala four lane highways at Saha in district Ambala, Mr Gadkari announced that road projects costing Rs 25,000 crore would be initiated in the State by December 2015.
Question: Name the career counseling portal launched by PM Narendra Modi on the inaugural session of 46th Indian Labour Conference in New Delhi on 20th July’15?
A. SCN
B. ACS
C. NCS
D. BCS
Answer: C. NCS
The move is aimed at modernising all government-run employment exchanges and providing an online platform to job seekers and employers. According to a Labour Ministry press release stating way forward for the NCS project, the government has planned integration (of portal) with CBSE database for verification of candidate academic performance. Under the NCS project, Labour Ministry is transforming the National Employment Service comprising a network of 978 employment exchanges into NCS by leveraging information technology to improve the delivery of services.
Question: On 17th July’15 with which country’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of India signed a Special Currency Swap Agreement?
A. Brazil
B. Nepal
C. Bangladesh
D. Sri Lanka
Answer: D. Sri Lanka
Under the arrangement, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka can draw up to 1.1 billion US dollar for a maximum period of six months. This special arrangement is in addition to the existing Framework on Currency Swap Arrangement for the SAARC Member Countries.
Question: Who has been appointed as Interim Director of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) on 17th July’15?
A. Surendra Kumar
B. Nagendra Chauhan
C. Prashant Pathrabe
D. None of these
Answer: C. Prashant Pathrabe
He succeeded incumbent Director DJ Narain who superannuated the office on 4 July 2015. He is Maharashtra-based senior Indian Information Service (IIS) officer of 1992 batch.
Question: On 17th July’15 the Union Government has launched Delhi Police Railway Helpline Number. What is the Helpline Number allotted to this service?
A. 1015
B. 1012
C. 1215
D. 1512
Answer: D. 1512
This helpline will serve as a very useful mechanism for rail passengers. Any person can make calls on this all-India Helpline Number from anywhere across the country.
Question: Which state has got the first Aam Aadmi Clinic aimed at providing better medical facility to the weaker sections?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Delhi
C. Gujarat
D. Kerala
Answer: B. Delhi
The clinic has been set up at a very low cost of around Rs 15 to Rs 20 lakh, whereas earlier a dispensary used to cost much higher. The Chief Minister said that the clinics will be able to cure 95 per cent of the patients and will reduce the rush at hospitals.
Question: Dr Bisheshar Pradeep a fiction writer passed away in Lucknow on 19th July’15. He was a noted _____ Writer.
A. Urdu
B. Sanskrit
C. Persian
D. Hindi
Answer: A. Urdu
He was a prolific writer who penned more than a dozen fiction books in Urdu. Retired as director from state PWD of Uttar Pradesh, he was a native of a place near Pakistan's Faisalabad and migrated to India after partition. He was awarded with ' Urdu Hindi Sahitya Akademi Award' in 1996. He was best known for his 'Afsana Nigari', the fiction writing form in Urdu.
Question: On 20th July’15, The United Nations Security Council has scheduled a vote on a resolution endorsing the ________ deal.
A. US-Cuba Deal
B. Indo-Pak Deal
C. US-Iran Deal
D. Iran-Nuclear Deal
Answer: D. Iran-Nuclear Deal
With all five permanent members of the Security Council involved in the marathon negotiations with Iran, the resolution's adoption is almost certain. The UN vote will come as US lawmakers begin their own review of the historic deal. The Obama administration sent the nuclear agreement to Congress.
Question: After how many weeks, Greek banks are ready to open their branches across the country?
A. 3 weeks
B. 4 weeks
C. 2 weeks
D. 5 weeks
Answer: A. 3 weeks
Greeks will be able to withdraw 420 euros a week at once instead of just 60 euros a day, but the limit will effectively remain the same and capital controls will also stay in place. The shutdown is estimated to have cost the economy some 3 billion euros in market shortages and export disruption. Greece prepared yesterday to restart its struggling economy with a revamped government, a bank reboot and a new round of tax hikes agreed after months of fraught confrontation with its creditors.
Question: In which state the 2nd Sohra Marathon-2015 was held on 17th July 2015?
A. Haryana
B. Meghalaya
C. Rajasthan
D. Odisha
Answer: B. Meghalaya
The marathon, named after the Cherrapunji’s historical name Sohra, started and ended at Mawkdok crossing through 13 destinations. It witnessed the participation of thousands of people from all walks of life including ministers, bureaucrats, officials, bankers, policemen, tourists, parents, children and persons with disabilities.
Question: On 18th July’15 which court declared that special status of Jammu and Kashmir under the article 370 of the Indian constitution is not alterable?
A. Delhi High Court
B. Patiala Court
C. J&K High Court
D. Supreme Court
Answer: C. J&K High Court
The observation was made by the bench comprising Justices M A Attar and A M Magray while ruling that the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002 cannot be enforced in the state. It was enacted by Indian Parliament in 2002.
Question: On 20th July’15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Session of the Indian Labour Conference in New Delhi. Which edition of the session Indian Labour Conference is being launched?
A. 43rd
B. 45th
C. 46th
D. 49th
Answer: C. 46th
The two day Conference will deliberate on social security for workers, both in organised and unorganised sectors, and job creation. Prime Minister will dedicate the National Career Service, NCS portal to the nation and launch health reforms of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation of India, ESIC on the occasion.
Question: On 16th July’15 the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed banks to ensure that their overall direct lending to farmers should not fall below the average of last _____ years.
A. Three
B. Five
C. Seven
D. Ten
Answer: A. Three
The direction has been given against the backdrop of government expressing concern over adverse impact of any reduction in direct credit, given the adverse weather conditions. To increase direct lending to agriculture, the RBI in April 2015 revised the target for direct lending to small and marginal farmers under priority sector norms to 7 percent for 2015-16 and to 8 percent for 2016-17.
Question: On 16th July’15 which committee’s report on Net Neutrality has been released by the Department of Telecom (DoT)?
A. A K Bhargava Committee
B. Aaiyar Committee
C. Krishnamurthy Committee
D. J Shankar Committee
Answer: A. A K Bhargava Committee
The Committee unhesitatingly recommended for adherence of the core principles of Net Neutrality, it also suggested few exceptions in the interests of national security and businesses.
Question: Through which method redevelopment of 400 railway stations has been approved by the PM Narendra Modi on 16th July’15?
A. Bogota Transport Method
B. France Challenge Method
C. Ireland Transport Method
D. Swiss Challenge Method
Answer: D. Swiss Challenge Method
Swiss Challenge Method means a Private Sector Participant submits an unsolicited or suo-motu proposal and draft contract principles for undertaking a project, not already initiated by the Government Agency or the Local Authority. The Government Agency or the Local Authority then invites competitive counter proposals in such manner as may be prescribed by the Government.
Question: Name the committee approved by the PM Narendra Modi on 16th July’15 to set up an expert group to classify the Caste names returned in the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC), 2011?
A. Raghuram Rajan Committee
B. Debroy Committee
C. Panagariya Committee
D. Lodha Committee
Answer: C. Panagariya Committee
The expert group will be chaired Arvind Panagariya, Vice-Chairperson of NITI Aayog and will be serviced by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Tribal Welfare. The approval was given in lieu of the failure of the states in consolidating different categories and is in line with the one taken by the UPA government on 19 May 2011.
Question: In how many states the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 16th July 2015 approved the creation of an intra state transmission system?
A. Seven
B. Nine
C. Eleven
D. Fifteen
Answer: A. Seven
The seven states include Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. In this seven states, activities envisaged under the project includes establishment of 48 new Grid sub-stations of different voltage levels with total transformation capacity around 17100 MVA (Mega Volt Ampere) by installing over 7800 ckt-kms (Circuit Kilometers) of transmission lines.
Question: After how many years of service to the nation, INS Astravahini, indigenously built Torpedo launch and recovery vessel (TLRV) was decommissioned on 16th July’15?
A. 15 years
B. 22 years
C. 29 years
D. 31 years
Answer: D. 31 years
It was commissioned in Indian Navy in 1984 at Visakhapatnam.
Question: On 16th July’15 Hellenic Parliament of Greece gave its nod to the European Union mandated austerity related legislative measures. How many members voted in favor of the legislation against the strength of 300?
A. 253
B. 282
C. 229
D. 292
Answer: C. 229
Out of total 300 strength of the unicameral legislature, the legislation was approved with 229 votes in favor, 64 against and six abstentions and won the support of three pro-European opposition parties. The approval of legislation by the Parliament gives much needed relief to Greece as people have been reeling under severe capital controls as their ATM withdrawals limited to 60 euro per day and banks and the stock exchange shut since 29 June 2015.
Question: Name the Indian American woman honoured as Champions of Change by the White House of United States (US) on 16th July’15?
A. Anjali Khanna
B. Sunita Williams
C. Paridhi Mohan
D. Sunita Viswanath
Answer: D. Sunita Viswanath
She was selected for her work to encourage Hindus to take care of the environment. She was among 12 other faith leaders who were awarded for their efforts in protecting environment and communities from the effects of climate change.
Question: What is the main reason to scrap the CLT20 competition by the Governing Council (GC) of the Champions League Twenty 20 (CLT20) on 15th July’15?
A. Match Fixing Issues
B. Withdrawal by Teams
C. Two teams of IPL suspended by Supreme Court
D. Limited public following
Answer: D. Limited public following
As the championship has been scrapped, the 2015 CLT20, scheduled for September and October, will not go ahead as planned. The GC consists of representatives of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Cricket Australia (CA). CLT20 is an annual international Twenty20 cricket competition played between the top domestic teams from major cricketing nations and was launched in 2008 with the first edition held in October 2009.
Question: Name the country that has released Indian national held for alleged terror links in July month.
A. Pakistan
B. Sri Lanka
C. China
D. Bangladesh
Answer: C. China
Rajiv Mohan Kulshrestha, who travelled along with 19 other foreigners from Gift of the Givers, a South African charity, was taken into custody at Ordos’s in China’s Inner Mongolia province on July 10 for allegedly watching videos of a banned terror group in their hotel rooms.
Question: In which city of Tamil Nadu state, the first Regional Vocational Training Institute RVTI has been started?
A. Tiruchirapalli
B. Chidambaram
C. Coimbatore
D. Salem
Answer: A. Tiruchirapalli
The RVTIs are being established all over the country by central government’s Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. There are till now 11 RVTIs all over India including Tura, Hissar, Jaipur, Kolkata, Bangalore, Mumbai and the twelth one has been started now in Trichy.
Question: Name the president of Bolivia’s Football Federation who has been arrested as part of a corruption inquiry?
A. Charles Lindsay
B. Albert Suarez
C. Alberto Lozada
D. Carlos Chavez
Answer: D. Carlos Chavez
Carlos Chavez is also the treasurer of the South American Football Confederation, Conmebol. He is accused of alleged corruption in the management of resources. Bolivia began investigating its football federation after a major corruption scandal broke out involving the sport's world governing body FIFA.
Question: Nelson Mandela Day is observed on ______.
A. 17th July
B. 17th August
C. 18th July
D. 19th September
Answer: C. 18th July
Nelson Mandela International Day (or Mandela Day) is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela's birthday. The day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010.
Question: As per the data released by the Agriculture Ministry, what is the total area that has been covered till date (18th July’15) as against 346 lakh hectares at this time last year?
A. 450 lakh hectare
B. 563 lakh hectare
C. 132 lakh hectare
D. 245 lakh hectare
Answer: B. 563 lakh hectare
Crops sowing data released by the Agriculture Ministry reveals that the total area of over 563 lakh hectare has been covered till date as against 346 lakh hectare at this time last year. Rice has been sown in over 132-lakh hectare, which is about six-lakh hectare more than last year. About 56 lakh hectare area has been covered under the cultivation of pulses which is more than double of the sown area under the crop last year.
Question: Who has been appointed as the head of the 14 member committee that will work out a five-year action plan for financial inclusion?
A. Deepak Mohanty
B. Bimal Jalan
C. Bibek Debroy
D. Arvind Kumar
Answer: A. Deepak Mohanty
Deepak Mohanty is the RBI Executive Director. The Committee will work to spread the reach of financial services to unbanked population. The committee was constituted in reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on the occasion of the Reserve Bank’s 80th anniversary wherein he asked the Bank to take the lead in encouraging financial institutions and to set a medium-to-long term target for sustainable financial inclusion.
Question: In which city the first ‘One Stop Centre (OSC) for Women’ of the Ministry of Women & Child Development was inaugurated on 16th July’15?
A. Raipur
B. Delhi
C. Bhopal
D. Pune
Answer: A. Raipur
The One Stop Centre at Raipur is located in the premises District Hospital, Raipur. It will provide access to integrated range of services under one roof including medical aid, police assistance, legal aid/case management, psychosocial counseling, temporary support services to women affected by violence.
Question: Which Public Sector Unit (PSU) bagged the 12th National Awards for Excellence in Cost management 2014?
A. BHEL
B. HAL
C. NTPC
D. RailTel
Answer: D. RailTel
This award is organized by The Institute of Cost Accounts of India. RailTel has won the award in the category of Public- Service Sector (Medium). RailTel Corporation a "Mini Ratna (Category-I)" PSU is one of the largest neutral telecom services providers in the country owning a Pan-India optic fiber network covering all important towns & cities of the country and several rural areas covering 70% of India’s population.
Question: What is the name of the new bill approved by the Cabinet in the Lok Sabha for the repeal of 295 Acts, identified for repeal by the concerned Ministries/Departments and the Legislative Department?
A. Repealing and Amending (Third) Bill, 2015
B. Repealing and Amending (Second) Bill, 2015
C. Repealing and Amending (Fourth) Bill, 2015
D. Repealing and Amending (Fifth) Bill, 2015
Answer: C. Repealing and Amending (Fourth) Bill, 2015
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on 16th July’15 gave its ex-post facto approval for Repealing and Amending (Third) Bill, 2015, which was introduced in Lok Sabha on 13th May, 2015 for repealing 187 Acts. The Cabinet also approved introduction of a new Bill, namely, the Repealing and Amending (Fourth) Bill, 2015 in the Lok Sabha for the repeal of 295 Acts, identified for repeal by the concerned Ministries/Departments and the Legislative Department.
Question: On 16th July’15 the Financing Agreement for World Bank (IDA) assistance of US$ 250 million for Andhra Pradesh Disaster Recovery Project was signed between Government of India and the ______.
A. European Central Bank
B. BRICS Bank
C. World Bank
D. Federal Bank
Answer: C. World Bank
The objective of the project is to restore, improve and enhance resilience of public services, environmental facilities, and livelihoods in targeted Communities of Andhra Pradesh, and increase the capacity of the State to respond promptly and effectively to an eligible crisis or emergency.
Question: On 16th July’15 the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Canada in the field of _______.
A. Agriculture
B. Manufacturing Sector
C. Education
D. Civil Aviation
Answer: D. Civil Aviation
The MoU will help in deepening the bilateral cooperation and enhancing the experience and technical knowledge in the field of Civil Aviation between India and Canada.
Question: Who is the editor of the book “Swatantrata Senani Raja Mahendra Pratap” released by the Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari on 16th July’15?
A. Raghuvir Singh ‘Arvind’
B. Rajesh Rana
C. T S Rana
D. Bharti Singh
Answer: A. Raghuvir Singh ‘Arvind’
The book highlights that Raja Mahendra Pratap never compromised with his political thoughts and was very influenced with the Gadar Revolution of 1913-15. He migrated to Afghanistan leaving all his lands and properties in India and in 1915 he established first provincial Government of India in Kabul along with his accomplice Barkatullah Khan and Maulavi Abaidullah Sindhi. He returned to India after World War –II when India was about to get Independence. He was of the view of the formation of a Great Union from Afghanistan to Sri Lanka which was not possible due to partition.
Question: What are the four initiatives launched as part of Skill India Vision on 15th July’15?
A. National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015, National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Entrepreneur Skill Loan scheme
B. National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015, National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Skill Loan scheme
C. National Policy for Entrepreneurship 2015, National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Entrepreneur Skill Loan scheme
D. State Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015, National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Entrepreneur Skill Loan scheme
Answer: B. National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015, National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Skill Loan scheme
The four initiatives are aimed at making India as a hub of world’s human resource capital.
Question: On 15th July’15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 2015 is intended to replace the ___________.
A. National Policy on Skill Development 2009
B. International Policy on Skill Development 2009
C. National Policy on Skill Development 2004
D. National Policy on Skill Development 2000
Answer: A. National Policy on Skill Development 2009
It is the first such policy on entrepreneurship since independence in India. The policy was unveiled in a programme held on the occasion of first-ever World Youth Skills Day.
Question: On 16th July’15 the Archery Association of India (AAI) constituted a three-member committee to probe the reasons behind men’s compound archery team’s failure to appear for the bronze medal play-off at the ______.
A. Asian Games 2015
B. Common Wealth Games 2011
C. World University Games 2015
D. Paralympics Games 2015
Answer: C. World University Games 2015
World University Games was held in Gwangzhou, Korea from 3 July to 14 July 2015. Men’s compound team of India comprising Gurwinder Singh, Kanwalpreet Singh and and Aman were unavailable at the start of the match against Italy at 10am local time in Gwangju and as per the World Archery rules the game was forfeited.
Question: In which state scientists on 15th July’15 discovered the remnants of a historically important port expected to be amongst the oldest signs of human trade on the central west coast?
A. Karnataka
B. Gujarat
C. Maharashtra
D. Goa
Answer: D. Goa
The Port is supposed to be existed between 1000AD - 3500 AD. The researchers are also of the opinion that they may discover a dockyard similar in structure to Lothal dockyard in Gujarat which was discovered by Archeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1954.
Question: On 15th July 2015 the Supreme Court of India termed the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Policy, 2012 and the Drug Price Control order (DRCO) 2013 as ______________.
A. Unreasonable
B. Irrational
C. Reasonable
D. Both A and B
Answer: D. Both A and B
The court was hearing a PIL filed by NGO All India Drug Action Network alleging that the Market Based Pricing (MBP) was never used for any price regulatory purposes and this was making medicines costlier. The three-judge bench headed by Justice TS Thakur and comprising Justice V Gopala Gowda and Justice R Banumathi asked the Department of Pharmaceuticals of Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers to pass a reasoned order on the issue within six months after hearing all parties concerned.
Question: Which school/college won the 18th National Youth Parliament Competition organized by Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs for school children across the country?
A. JNV Saharanpur
B. JNV Churachandpur
C. JNV Mysore
D. JNV Araria
Answer: B. JNV Churachandpur
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) of Churachandpur in Manipur emerged winner from a list of 64 JNVs spread across 8 regions of Navodaya Vidyalaya Saimiti in the country.
Question: On how many insurance companies the Competition Commission of India has imposed penalty of 671 crore rupees for cartelization and adopting anti competitive practices?
A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 7
Answer: C. 4
These companies are National Insurance, New India Assurance, Oriental Insurance and United India Insurance. In its order, the fair trade regulator also asked them to cease and desist from anti-competitive. The present case relates to bid rigging in public procurement for social welfare schemes-- Rashtriya Swashtya Bima Yojana and Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme of Kerala government. The beneficiaries of the schemes were BPL families. The investigation by the CCI concluded that the insurance companies colluded with each other and manipulated with tendering process initiated by the Kerala government.
Question: The government has reduced the stipulated period for settlement of various claims like PF withdrawal, pension and insurance by the retirement fund body EPFO to 20 days from the existing______.
A. 25 days
B. 30 days
C. 60 days
D. 90 days
Answer: B. 30 days
According to an order, the Labour Ministry had notified the changes to the three schemes for the purpose on 2nd July’15. EPFO had settled 1.29 crore claims in 2014-15, of which more than 90 per cent were disposed off within 20 days. The cumulative figure regarding claim settlement for the current fiscal i.e; from April to June stood at 33.35 lakh claims, out of which 43% were settled within 3 days. 
Question: Which state has passed the Guarantee of Public Services Bill, 2015 on 14th July’15?
A. Andhra Pradesh
B. Telangana
C. Goa
D. Maharashtra
Answer: D. Maharashtra
The bill will empower citizens to avail their rights in stipulated time with less efforts and cost and pave way for curbing corruption, bringing transparency and empowering citizens. In case of failure in delivery in the stipulated time, the government employee will be penalized for default, which ranges between 500 rupees to 5000 rupees.
Question: On 15th July which ministry launched the PGS-India, Soil Health Card and FQCS Web Portals?
A. Ministry of Comm. and Information Technology
B. Ministry of Agriculture
C. Ministry of Earth Science
D. Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: B. Ministry of Agriculture
Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Agriculture Minister launched 3 web portals viz. Soil Health Card portal, Fertiliser Quality Control System portal and Participatory Guarantee System – India portal. Under the scheme, Soil Health Card portal has been developed for registration of soil samples, recording test results of soil samples and generation of Soil Health Card (SHC) along with Fertilizer Recommendations. Fertilizer Quality Control System (FQCS) is a web based and configurable workflow application developed by NIC for processing of sample collection, testing and generation of analysis reports. Participatory Guarantee System is a process of certifying organic products which ensures agriculture production process in accordance with the standards laid down for organic products and that desired quality has been maintained.
Question: For which state Central Government has approved Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Policy?
A. Delhi
B. Jammu & Kashmir
C. West Bengal
D. Nagaland
Answer: A. Delhi
An official release issued by Urban Development Ministry in New Delhi said that the TOD is a key policy initiative for low-carbon, high-density and compact living spaces. The TOD zone would comprise approximately 20 percent of Delhi’s overall area.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Chairman of Narmada Valley Development Authority (NVDA) on 14th July’15?
A. Gajendra Chauhan
B. Rakesh Sahni
C. Prof V S Chainey
D. Dr Rajesh Kumar
Answer: B. Rakesh Sahni
Earlier he was Chairman of MP Electricity Regulatory Commission. He retired as an IAS officer after serving post of chief secretary of States.
Question: In which state India’s first railway line under PPP model was inaugurated on 14th July’15?
A. Maharashtra
B. Delhi
C. Karnataka
D. Gujarat
Answer: D. Gujarat
The rail line is India’s first railway-line built with private sector participation under Non-Government Railway (NGR) Policy 2012 of Indian Railways. The broad-gauge railway line between Gandhidham and Tuna-Tekra Port in Gujarat was inaugurated by flagging off a goods train.
Question: Name the Indian city recently chosen as “City of Music” by UNESCO under the Creative Cities Network?
A. Agra
B. Mysore
C. Varanasi
D. Jodhpur
Answer: C. Varanasi
It has been chosen in the music category under UNESCO's "field of excellence" plan. The fields of excellence are classified into categories of literature, film, music, craft and folk art, design, media arts and gastronomy.
Question: Which country is planning to abolish English as its official language in favor of Urdu, 68 years after the country achieved independence from Britain?
A. Bangladesh
B. Afghanistan
C. Baluchistan
D. Pakistan
Answer: D. Pakistan.
The plan is to completely replace English with Urdu for official business within the next 10 to 15 years. It follows concerns that many young Pakistanis are shunning their national dress and language to adopt a more Western point of view.
Question: With how many countries is India working on an ambitious project with scientists, geophysicists, and seismologists to develop an early-warning system for prediction of earthquake?
A. 5
B. 15
C. 27
D. 32
Answer: C. 27
The warning could be issued some seconds before the earthquake strikes. An official release issued by Ministry of Earth Science said, India is also planning to launch a satellite to track the changes that take place on earth's surface before the tremors.
Question: Name the scheme aimed at providing affordable, reliable and round the clock power supply to urban areas that will be launched by PM Narendra Modi on 16th July’15 during visit to Varanasi?
A. Integrated Power Development Scheme
B. Integrated Power Production Scheme
C. Power Manufacturing Scheme
D. Power Distribution Scheme
Answer: A. Integrated Power Development Scheme
Under the IPDS, Varanasi will get about 572 crore rupees to strengthen city’s power infrastructure.
Question: World Youth Skills Day is observed on ____.
A. 12th July’15
B. 13th July’15
C. 15th July’15
D. 16th July’15
Answer: C. 15th July’15
To raise awareness about the importance of investing in youth skills development, the United Nations General Assembly has decided to celebrate the first World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) on 15 July 2015.
Question: The Foreign Direct Investment equity inflows has increased by _____ per cent during October 2014 to April 2015 as compared to the corresponding period last year.
A. 23%
B. 34%
C. 39%
D. 48%
Answer: D. 48%
The increase in FDI is attributed to the launch of Make in India initiatives in September last year. In 2014-15, the country witnessed unprecedented growth of 717 percent, to 40.92 billion dollars investment by Foreign Institutional Investors. The FDI inflow under the approval route saw a growth of 87 per cent during the period with inflow of 2.22 billion dollars and more than 90 percent of FDI through automatic route. These indicators reflect remarkable pace of approval being given by the government and confidence of investors in the resurgent India.
Question: Which one of the following legendary music directors passed away on 14th July’15?
A. M S Viswanathan
B. Dakshinamurthy
C. G Devrajan
D. Gangai Amaren
Answer: A. M S Viswanathan
He was 87, and is survived by four sons and three daughters. The southern veteran musician has composed music for over a thousand films in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam and was fondly called as the “King of Light Music.” He has the distinction of having worked with four chief ministers in the film world, MG Ramachandran, NT Ramarao, M.Karunanidhi and J.Jayalalithaa. MS Viswanathan was born in a village in Palghat district of Kerala.
Question: As announced by the UNAIDS on 14th July’15 by which year the AIDS epidemic can end?
A. 2020
B. 2022
C. 2030
D. 2042
Answer: C. 2030
The AIDS epidemic can end by 2030 highlighting the global response that has averted 30 million new HIV infections worldwide in the last 15 years including in India, which ranks among the top five worst affected countries.
Question: Name the new class of particles discovered in the CERN’s Large Hadron Collider?
A. mu Leptons
B. Pentaquark
C. Heavy Electron
D. None of these
Answer: B. Pentaquark
Scientists at CERN's Large Hadron Collider announced the discovery of a new class of exotic subatomic particles called the pentaquarks. Pentaquark was first predicted to exist in the 1960s but, much like the Higgs boson particle before it, the particle eluded science for decades until its detection at the LHC.
Question: What percent of growth was registered in tourist arrival on e-visa during January-June 2015 over the same period last year?
A. 956%
B. 754%
C. 800%
D. 500%
Answer: A. 956%
A total of 1,26,214 tourists arrived on e-Tourist Visa during the period. During the month of June this year, a total of 15,557 tourists arrived on e-Tourist Visa. The tourists from USA account for about 42% per cent in it. The high growth may be attributed to introduction of e-Tourist Visa for 76 countries as against coverage of earlier Tourist Visa on Arrival scheme for 12 countries. The Government of India had launched Tourist Visa on Arrival enabled by Electronic Travel Authorization, presently known as e-Tourist Visa scheme in November last year for 43 countries. Later, the Government extended this Scheme to the nationals of 33 countries this year.
Question: With which country India has inked a MoU in New Delhi for cooperation in the field of election management and administration on 13th July’15?
A. Albania
B. USA
C. Georgia
D. Tanzania
Answer: C. Georgia
The MoU was signed by the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Dr. Nasim Zaidi and Chairperson, Central Election Commission of Georgia, Ms Tamar Zhvania.
Question: Bastille Day of France was observed on ____.
A. 11th July’15
B. 12th July’15
C. 13th July’15
D. 14th July’15
Answer: D. 14th July’15
Question: Republic Day of Iraq was observed on ______.
A. 13th July’15
B. 14th July’15
C. 15th July’15
D. 16th July’15
Answer: B. 14th July’15
Question: In which case, a Special Court in Delhi has ordered framing of charges against former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda and eight others on 14th July’15?
A. Paddy Scam Case
B. 2G Case
C. Commonwealth Scam Case
D. Coal Scam Case
Answer: D. Coal Scam Case
Madhu Koda, ex-Coal Secretary H C Gupta, former Jharkhand Chief Secretary Ashok Kumar Basu and six others were ordered to be put on trial by a special court on charges of corruption, criminal conspiracy and cheating in connection with a coal block allocation scam case.
Question: Skill India Campaign is being launched on _____.
A. 13th July’15
B. 14th July’15
C. 15th July’15
D. 16th July’15
Answer: C. 15th July’15
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch ‘Skill India campaign’ today at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi. On this occasion, Meghalaya Skill Development Society will be organizing the programme under the theme, “Why Skill Development is necessary for the youth of Meghalaya?” in conformity with the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Question: Which of the following two teams have been suspended for two years from Indian Premier Leagues?
A. Chennai Super Kings
B. Rajasthan Royal
C. Kolkata Knight Riders
D. Kings XI Punjab
Answer: Both A & B
On 14th July’15, Star-studded Chennai Super Kings, two-time champions in the IPL, and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the cricket league for two years for the betting activities of their key officials Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra during the 2013 season. Meiyappan, the former Team Principal of CSK, and Kundra, co-owner of the Rajasthan Royals, were suspended for life for indulging in betting and bringing the IPL and the game into disrepute.
Question: In which festival people were killed in a stampede on 14th July’15-inaugural day of the fest?
A. Kumbh
B. Nashik Kumbh
C. Pushkar
D. Maha Pushkarams
Answer: D. Maha Pushkarams
Twenty-seven people including 21 women and one child were killed in a stampede that occurred at one of the Pushkar ghats in Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh, at the beginning of River Godavari’s 12-day Maha Pushkarams.
Question: Name the Mumbai Ranji cricketer suspended by BCCI on 12th July’15 for making a "corrupt approach" to a fellow player during the IPL?
A. Hikesh Shah
B. Vinod Tambe
C. Parthiv Patel
D. Abhijeet Gaur
Answer: A. Hikesh Shah
Hiken Shah was found guilty of breaching BCCI's Anti-Corruption Code for participants. he BCCI stated that Hiken Shah made a corrupt approach to one of his colleagues from first-class cricket, who is also a member of one of the IPL teams. The approached player immediately informed the incident to his franchise team. The franchise team followed the process of informing the incident to the Anti-Corruption Unit of the BCCI.
Question: Name the IPS officer discharged by a special CBI Court on 13th July’15 from Sohrabuddin encounter case?
A. P C Pandey
B. Geeta Johri
C. N Balasubramanyam
D. Abhay Chudasama
Answer: C. N Balasubramanyam
He is an Andra Pradesh-cadre IPS officer. Special CBI judge M B Gosavi passed the order on 13th July’15. The court has so far discharged BJP president Amit Shah, Former Rajasthan Home Minister Gulabchand Kataria, Rajasthan-based businessman Vimal Patni, former Gujarat police chief P C Pande, Additional Director General of Police Geeta Johri, Gujarat police officer Abhay Chudasama, Yashpal Chudasama and Ajay Patel from the case. Sohrabuddin, a gangster who the Gujarat police claimed had links with Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, and his wife Kausar Bi were allegedly abducted by Gujarat ATS from Hyderabad on their way to Sangli in Maharashtra in 2005.
Question: In which city, the Kumbh Mela is beginning from 14th July’15?
A. Allahabad
B. Varanasi
C. Nashik
D. Haridwar
Answer: C. Nashik
The Nashik city and its nearby holy town Trambakeshwar are set ready for the Grand congregation or the Kumbh mela beginning from 14th July’15.
Question: Name the spacecraft that is set to take close look of Pluto in this week?
A. New Horizons Spacecraft
B. Horizons Spacecraft
C. Galaxy Spacecraft
D. Dwarf Spacecraft
Answer: A. New Horizons Spacecraft
After travelling almost five billion kilometres, the Probe, which was launched from earth nine years ago, is now within two million kilometres of the dwarf planet. New Horizons should pass close to Pluto tomorrow, taking photographs and collecting data from the surface. The Probe has already relayed some photographs back to earth on Wednesday.
Question: Which country’s Prime Minister resigned as he has been charged with several counts of corruption in a long-running investigation?
A. Pakistan
B. Romania
C. France
D. Greece
Answer: B. Romania
Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta has been charged with several counts of corruption in a long-running investigation. The country's anti-corruption agency said he faces charges of fraud, tax evasion and money laundering dating back to when he was a lawyer before he became Prime Minister in 2012.
Question: Eurozone leaders have agreed to offer Greece a third bailout, after marathon talks held in ______.
A. Germany
B. France
C. London
D. Brussels
Answer: D. Brussels
Amid one of the worst crises in the EU's history, the head of the European Commission said the risk of Greece leaving the eurozone had been averted. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said that after a tough battle, Greece had secured a growth package and debt restructuring. Greece will now have to pass reforms demanded by the eurozone by 15th July’15.
Question: Name the indigenously developed anti-tank guided missile test fired from helicopter?
A. Agni V
B. Prithvi IV
C. Nag
D. Sarp
Answer: C. Nag
India has test-fired its indigenously developed Nag anti-tank guided missile. It can hit a target upto seven kilometres, from a helicopter. Three-round trial of helicopter-launched Nag (HeliNa) missile were conducted on 12th July’15 at the Chandhan firing range in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer. HeliNa is a helicopter-launched version of Nag and has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme.
Question: Name the satellite-based navigation system launched on 13th July’15 for the use by the aviation industry?
A. Saarang
B. Gagan
C. Naarang
D. Aarambh
Answer: B. Gagan
Gagan, which stands for GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation, is a satellite-based system meant to improve the accuracy and integrity of the navigation systems. India will become the fourth country globally to do so. It will augment GPS signals over the Indian landmass, the Bay of Bengal, South East Asia, the Middle East and the Arabian Sea widening its reach up to Africa. At present radio navigation aids are used for precision landing and approaches at Indian airports. It will make it easier for aircraft movements to small airports which do not have navigation aids.
Question: Challenging India's jurisdiction to try two of its marines, which country on 13th July’15 made a fresh plea before the Supreme Court saying it has invoked international arbitration?
A. France
B. China
C. Pakistan
D. Italy
Answer: D. Italy
The two Italian marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen three years ago. The court allowed one of them to remain in Italy for six more months on medical grounds. On the other hand, Additional Solicitor General P S Narasimha told the apex court bench, hearing the case said that India had jurisdiction to try the two Italian marines, Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone, as the alleged offence had taken place in the Indian waters.
Question: Name the campaign that will be launched by India on the occasion of the first ever UN World Youth Skills Day?
A. Namai Gange Campaign
B. Skill India Campaign
C. Yuva Kalyan Kosh
D. Sab Haath Rozgaar Campaign
Answer: B. Skill India Campaign
On that day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the National Skill Development Mission and will unveil the new National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Question: What is the reason for the demolition of facade of Bhopal’s historical Shaukat Mahal by the Municipal Corporation Employees on 12th July’15?
A. It acquired more space in the populous city.
B. It is not considered as a National Heritage.
C. Land is acquired for Govt. Office.
D. It developed wide cracks.
Answer: D. It developed wide cracks.
Question: On which of the following National Highways India’s longest road tunnel will be opened in next year?
A. Mumbai-Pune National Highway
B. Delhi-Chandigarh National Highway
C. Jammu-Srinagar National Highway
D. Lucknow-Delhi National Highway
Answer: C. Jammu-Srinagar National Highway
The tunnel is being built on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway will be opened for general traffic in July 2016. It will reduce the distance between the two cities by 30 kms. The 9.2 km tunnel is part of 286km long four laning project of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
Question: On 13th July’15 the Supreme Court dismissed businessman Vijay Mallya's plea seeking quashing of criminal proceedings against him in a case pertaining to violation of __________.
A. Money Laundering Act
B. Foreign Exchange Rules
C. Illegal Land Acquisition Rules
D. All of above
Answer: B. Foreign Exchange Rules
Earlier, the apex court had issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Mallya's plea against the Delhi High Court order turning down his appeal for quashing criminal proceedings in a trial court for alleged wilful disobedience of summons issued to him by the ED. The ED had alleged that Mallya violated the provisions of Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) in arranging funds to advertise his liquor products abroad over a decade ago.
Question: In which country, the bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Thakur has been unveiled on 13th July’15?
A. Tajikistan
B. Kazakhstan
C. Turkmenistan
D. Kyrgyzstan
Answer: A. Tajikistan
The bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Thakur was unveiled at Bukhoro Square in Dushanbe on 13th Jult’15.
Question: How many members constitute the special team by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh?
A. 5
B. 10
C. 20
D. 40
Answer: D. 40
The apex court's order came after the MP government gave its consent to transfer investigation of all Vyapam-related cases from the Special Investigation Team and the Special Task Force to the CBI.
Question: The maiden flight of city-based regional low cost carrier TruJet, part of Turbo Megha Airways Pvt Ltd. took off between which cities on 12th July’15?
A. Hyderabad to Tirupati
B. Secunderabad to Bengaluru
C. Hyderabad to Delhi
D. Pune to Ahmedabad
Answer: A. Hyderabad to Tirupati
Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju inaugurated the first commercial flight of TruJet, promoted by a group of investors including Tollywood actor Ram Charan Teja.
Question: Which one of the following organisations website was hacked on 12th July’15?
A. ISRO
B. DRDO
C. Indian Army
D. Indian Navy
Answer: A. ISRO
The website of Indian Space Research Organisation's commercial arm Antrix was hacked. The home page of the Antrix Corporation Limited website seems to have been hacked as per the statement made by the ISRO official.
Question: Who won the Wimbledon Men’s Single title on 12th July’15?
A. Roger Federer
B. Leander Paes
C. Novak Djokovic
D. None of these
Answer: C. Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic won the third Wimbledon title by defeating Roger Federer.
Question: Who won the Wimbledon Mixed Double title on 12th July’15?
A. Leander Paes and Sania Mirza
B. Martina Hingis and Sania Mirza
C. Leander Paes and Martina Hingis
D. Mahesh Bhupati and Serena Williams
Answer: C. Leander Paes and Martina Hingis
Leander Paes clinched his 16th Grand Slam trophy, winning the mixed doubles event of the Wimbledon Championship with legendary Martina Hingis by defeating Alexander Peya and Timea Babos.
Question: Name the Indian who won the Junior Boys' Doubles Wimbledon Title on 12th July’15?
A. Sumit Nagal
B. Sachin Mehra
C. Yuki Bhambri
D. Ramesh Krishnan
Answer: A. Sumit Nagal
Youngster Sumit Nagal entered the history books as only sixth Indian to win a Grand Slam junior title after winning the boys doubles trophy at the Wimbledon championships with partner Nam Hoang Ly.
Question: Name the women tennis player who won the Wimbledon Women’s Singles title on 11th July’15?
A. Venus Williams
B. Serena Williams
C. Garbine Muguruza
D. Sania Mirza
Answer: B. Serena Williams
In the final in London on 11th July’15, Serena Williams defeated 21-year old Garbine Muguruza of Spain.
Question: Which organisation has set a target of providing 30,000 crore rupees as credit to farmers for irrigation over the next three years?
A. NABARD
B. SIDBI
C. EPFO
D. SBI
Answer: A. NABARD
The state-run National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, NABARD has set a target of providing 30,000 crore rupees as credit to farmers for irrigation over the next three years. This funding will be in addition to the government’s recent announcement of providing 50,000 crore rupees of loans to farmers over the next five years under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana.
Question: In which state, the city police on 12th Jan’15 launched a new initiative known as ‘UDAAN’, an employment linked skill training program for under privileged youth?
A. Gujarat
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Haryana
D. Maharashtra
Answer: C. Haryana
In Haryana, the Gurgaon Police launched a new initiative known as ‘UDAAN’, an employment linked skill training program for under privileged youth. As many as 60 people would be trained in hospitality in the first batch of ‘UDAAN’.
Question: In which of the following states, the 12th International Symposium on Antarctic Earth Sciences (ISAES) was inaugurated on 12th July’15?
A. Delhi
B. Goa
C. Karnataka
D. Odisha
Answer: B. Goa
The first ISAES was organised way back in 1963 at Cape Town, and the last one (11th) at Edinburgh, with the Symposium traversing through Oslo, Madison, Adelaide, Cambridge, Tokyo, Siena, Wellington, Potsdam and Santa Barbara.
Question: In which country did PM Narendra Modi unveil the statue of Mahatma Gandhi on 12th July’15?
A. Kazakhstan
B. Turkmenistan
C. Tajikistan
D. Kyrgyzstan
Answer: D. Kyrgyzstan
PM Narendra Modi remarked that this was his first visit to Central Asia, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi had been unveiled in two countries, during this visit.
Question: In which of the following cities, was the 7th BRICS Summit held on 8-9 July 2015?
A. Sochi
B. Ufa
C. Beijing
D. Warsaw
Answer: B. Ufa
The Russian city Ufa in Bashkortostan hosted the 7th BRICS Summit.
Question: In which state India’s first Earthquake Warning System (EWS) was successfully installed in the first week of July 2015?
A. Bihar
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Uttarakhand
D. Gujarat
Answer: C. Uttarakhand
With this, Uttarakhand became first Indian state to install a system that can detect earthquakes and disseminate warnings.
Question: Which cricketer became only the second player in the history of One Day International (ODI) cricket to claim a hat-trick on ODI debut?
A. Mohammad Sami
B. Taijul Islam
C. Bhuvanesh Kumar
D. Kagiso Rabada
Answer: D. Kagiso Rabada
South African bowler Kagiso Rabada achieved this feat against Bangladesh. Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam was the first debutant to take an ODI hat-trick. He achieved the feat in 2014.
Question: Who among the following launched the Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan on 9th July’15?
A. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
B. Pranab Mukherjee
C. Pratibha Patil
D. Narendra Modi
Answer: A. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
Former President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on 9 July 2015 launched the Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan (RAA) in New Delhi. The Abhiyan aims to inculcate a spirit of inquiry, creativity and love for Science and Mathematics in school children.
Question: With which country has India signed a MoU for setting up the PACEsetter Fund of Rs.50 crore to accelerate the commercialization of Clean Energy Solutions?
A. Japan
B. United States
C. Russia
D. China
Answer: B. United States
As per the statement made by the Ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) the MoU signed on June 30 by US Ambassador Richard Verma and MNRE Secretary Upendra Tripathi, is part of a new initiative under the US-India 'Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE)' that combines the resources of several US agencies and Indian ministries.
Question: In which month the total number of telephone connections in India crossed the record one billion mark?
A. April 2015
B. December 2014
C. June 2015
D. May 2015
Answer: D. May 2015
As per the data released by regulator TRAI, at the end of May 2015 the total number of telephone connections stood at 1,002.05 million, of which 975.78 million connections were wireless or mobile.
Question: Approximately how many online services have been launched by various state governments and the centre during Digital India Week?
A. 200
B. 125
C. Less than 50
D. Over 250
Answer: D. Over 250
More than 250 services relating to health, education, public distribution system, Police, agriculture, trade and employment have been launched by various state governments.
Question: Kumar Sangakkara will end his international career in August 2015 playing against which team?
A. Australia
B. England
C. India
D. Pakistan
Answer: C. India
The 37-year-old Sangakkara wanted to quit all formats after the World Cup earlier this year but agreed to stay on to play four home tests — two against Pakistan and two against India.
Question: World Population Day was observed on ____.
A. 10th July
B. 11th July
C. 12th July
D. 13th July
Answer: B. 11th July
This year's theme for World Population Day is “vulnerable populations in emergencies.”
Question: On 11th July India recorded a population of 127,42,39,769, which is growing at a rate of 1.6 per cent a year, and could make the country the most populous in the world by______.
A. 2050
B. 2022
C. 2017
D. 2032
Answer: A. 2050
Question: How many British satellites have been launched by the ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) on 10th July’15?
A. 13
B. 9
C. 5
D. 3
Answer: C. 5
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) conducted its thirtieth flight on 10th July’15, deploying five British satellites into a Sun-Synchronous orbit. Liftoff occurred at 21:58 local time from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
Question: With which of the following countries did India sign seven pacts and vowed to jointly combat terrorism in the region on 11th July’15?
A. Russia
B. Kazakhstan
C. Tajikistan
D. Turkmenistan
Answer: D. Turkmenistan
Question: Name the tennis playerwho created history by becoming the first female player from the India to win a women’s doubles Grand Slam trophy on 11th July’15?
A. Ankita Bhambri
B. Shikha Oberoi
C. Sania Mirza
D. Ankita Raina
Answer: C. Sania Mirza - Sania Mirza created history by becoming the first female player from the country to win a women’s doubles Grand Slam trophy as she clinched the Wimbledon title with Swiss partner Martina Hingis, in London. The duos defeated Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina of Russian team in a final match.
Question: On 10th July’15, which two countries were accepted as full members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) by the year 2016?
A. Uzbekistan and Pakistan
B. India and Pakistan
C. Tajikistan and India
D. Russia and Kazakhstan
Answer: B. India and Pakistan - The Beijing-based SCO currently has China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan as members. Along with India, the process to include Pakistan as a member was initiated on 10th July’15.
Question: In which city an international gateway for broadband connectivity will be set up under an agreement between state-run BSNL and Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company limited?
A. Agartala
B. Kolkata
C. Kohima
D. Imphal
Answer: A. Agartala - Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will lay the foundation stone for a project in Agartala on 12th July’15 that aims to strengthen telecom services in the North Eastern states. Under the project, an international gateway for broadband connectivity will be set up at Agartala in which connectivity will be provided through Bangladesh under an agreement between state-run BSNL and Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company limited.
Question: What would be the theme of 2015 Science Express announced on 8th July’15?
A. Climate Change
B. Global Warming
C. Water level
D. Rivers in India
Answer: A. Climate Change - This was announced during the first meeting of Science Express Climate Change Special (SECCS) chaired by Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr Harsh Vardhan on 8 July 2015 in New Delhi.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Head of the Committee to study status of Sports Authority of India (SAI) training centers across the country?
A. Pullela Gopi Chand
B. Ashwini Nachappa
C. Amrinder Singh
D. Rajiv Shukla
Answer: B. Ashwini Nachappa - The committee was formed against the backdrop of suicide attempt by four girl inmates at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) SAG Water Sports centre at Alappuzha, Kerala in May 2015 that resulted in death of one girl trainee.
Question: Who became the first Indian to win a Gold Medal at World University Games in Gwangju, South Korea on 8th July’15?
A. Inderjit Singh
B. Achal Pratap Singh
C. Amrendra Pal Singh Chauhan
D. Akshay Jain
Answer: A. Inderjit Singh - Indian shot-putter Inderjit Singh created history to become the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World University Games. In the last edition of the games in 2013 in Russia had won silver medal in the shot put event.
Question: What is the position of India in the latest FIFA rankings?
A. 51
B. 68
C. 96
D. 156
Answer: D. 156 - India has dropped a whopping 15 places to languish at the 156th position in the latest FIFA rankings. India went down in the rankings following two consecutive defeats in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Oman and Guam last month.
Question: Name the boxer who has been stripped by the World Boxing Organization (WBO) of the Welterweight World title which he won by beating Manny Pacquiao two months ago?
A. Muhammad Ali
B. Mike Tyson
C. Sugar Ray Leonard
D. Floyd Mayweather
Answer: D. Floyd Mayweather - Mayweather had failed to meet the deadline for paying the 200,000 dollar sanctioning fee required by the WBO after he took the belt 2ndMay in Las Vegas in the richest fight of all time, earning a reported 220 million dollars. WBO rules require boxers to pay 3 percent of their purse to fight for a world title up to a maximum of 200,000 dollars. The rules also prohibit WBO champions to hold any belts in any other weight divisions. Mayweather is currently also the WBC and WBA champion at junior middleweight (154 lbs), as well as at welterweight (147 lbs).
Question: With which country India has signed Inter Governmental Agreement to implement the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) on 9th July’15?
A. Kazakhstan
B. United States
C. Russia
D. China
Answer: B. United States - The agreement will promote transparency on tax matters. Revenue Secretary Shaktikanta Das and U.S. Ambassador to India Mr Richard Verma signed the agreement in New Delhi on 9th July’15.
Question: As per the IMF report, in which year IMF forecast a growth rate of 7.5 per cent for India and China's 6.3 per cent?
A. 2015
B. 2016
C. 2017
D. 2018
Answer: B. 2016 - India will be the world's fastest growing economy for the second consecutive year in 2016 at 7.5 per cent even as it decreased its current year global economy growth forecast to 3.3 per cent. In its World Economic Outlook Update, IMF retained India's growth forecast for current year at 7.5 percent which will be higher than China's 6.8 per cent.
Question: Name the head of the International Monetary Fund?
A. Kofi Annan
B. Ban Ki Moon
C. Christine Lagarde
D. Mark Simon
Answer: C. Christine Lagarde
Question: On which day the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) launched the facility of online payment of application fees through Credit/Debit cards and electronic fund transfer from 53 Banks?
A. 7th July’15
B. 8th July’15
C. 9th July’15
D. 10th July’15
Answer: C. 9th July’15 - The facility of online payment was launched by Commerce Secretary Rita A.Teaotia. Now with the online payment facility being available from 53 banks as well as Credit and Debit cards, it would be possible to not only apply online for benefits under various schemes of Foreign Trade Policy but also make payment for the required application fee online. DGFT has already operationalised the facility of online filing of various applications by the exporters/importers under the Foreign Trade Policy (2015-20). Early this year, DGFT also operationalised the facility of online submission of applications for issue of online Importer Exporter Code in digital format.
Question: Name the scheme launched on 9th July’15 by HRD Ministry to make learning of Science and Mathematics a joyful and meaningful activity for school children?
A. Rashtriya Vaigyanik Khoj
B. Vigyan Avishkar Abhiyan
C. Rashtriya Vigyan Abhiyan
D. Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan
Answer: D. Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan - The scheme will target students in the age group of 6 - 18 years. Other schemes like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan will be used for implementing this scheme. The Abhiyan also provides a platform for schools in a dual track approach to make learning of scince exciting to children.
Question: Name the notable Urdu poet also known as ‘Indo Pak Shayar’ who passed away on 9th July’15?
A. Firaq Gorakhpuri
B. Bashar Nawaaz
C. Faiz Ahmad Faiz
D. Habib Tanvir
Answer: B. Bashar Nawaaz - He took his last breath at his native place Aurangabad (Maharashtra). His gazals are popular in India as well as Pakistan. His books ‘Rayagan’, ‘Ajanabee samandar’ was very appreciated by gazal lovers. As lyricist he wrote number of gazals for hindi movies like ‘Bazaar’, ‘Loree’, ‘Jaane vafaa’, ‘Tere Shahar me’, etc. The Gazal “Karoge yaad to har baat yaad aayegee” from film Bazaar is all time hit song. Bashar Navaaz was honored with ‘Galib award’ of Galib Academy New Delhi, Maharashtra State Urdu Academy award, Maharashtra State Iftekhaar E Adab award.
Question: Who has recommended that there should be a special law to deal with the cases of assault on journalists and it should be made cognizable and non- bailable offence?
A. President of India
B. National Human Rights Commission
C. Press Council of India
D. Supreme Court
Answer: C. Press Council of India - On 9th July’15, PCI chairman Justice C K Prasad said the government may enact a law for the safety of journalists and the cases involving murder of journalists should be automatically referred to CBI. According to the report more than 80 journalist were killed in the country in the last two decades. It said, 60 journalists were killed in states like Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and not a single person was convicted. It has recommended that all the cases of attacks on journalists shall be referred to special courts and trial should be completed within a year of filing of charge sheet.
Question: In which scam case the Supreme Court on 9th July’15 ordered CBI probe and issued notice to centre as well as M.P. govt?
A. Vyapam
B. Shardha Chit Fund
C. IPL
D. Coal Block Allocation
Answer: A. Vyapam - A bench headed by Chief Justice H L Dattu clarified that all cases will be transferred to the CBI from Monday and the agency will file its report before it on 24th of this month. The apex court slammed Madhya Pradesh High Court and said it is washing its hands off the Vyapam scam as it could have ordered a CBI probe.
Question: Name the Russian cosmonaut entered Guinness World Records for spending most number of days in the space in the first week of July 2015?
A. Alexey Leonov
B. Sergei Avdeyev
C. Sergei Krikalev
D. Gennady Padalka
Answer: D. Gennady Padalka - He achieved the feat by spending 804 days on the International Space Station (ISS). He surpassed cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev, also a Russian, record of 803 days, nine hours and 41 minutes in the space which Sergei achieved across six missions from 1998 to 2005.
Question: At which oil block, on 7th July’15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kazakhstan Prime Minister Karim Massimov jointly launched the first exploratory drilling by ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) and KazMunaiGaz of Kazakhstan?
A. Aktas Oil Block
B. Satpayev Oil Block
C. Dunga Oil Block
D. Kumkol Oil Block
Answer: B. Satpayev Oil Block - The Satpayev oil block is an offshore field (1582 sq km) in the Northern Caspian Sea, in water depths of 6-8 m. It has a potential reserves estimated at 1.8 billion barrels crude oil and natural gas.
Question: Which state will host the Youth Delphic Games in Feb2016?
A. Goa
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Kerala
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: A. Goa - The Youth Delphic Games are held at every four years and invites participants of the age group of 15 to 25 years.
Question: Name the bank launched Watch Banking application for Apple Watch in the first week of July 2015?
A. ICICI Bank
B. SBI
C. Bank of Baroda
D. HDFC Bank
Answer: D. HDFC Bank - With this, HDFC became the first bank in India to offer the service of Watch Banking.
Question: Name the co-authors of the book titled ‘Kashmir: The Vajpayee Years’ was published on 6th July’15 by HarperCollins?
A. A S Dulat
B. Aditya Sinha
C. Tapas Chandra
D. Both A & B
Answer: D. Both A & B - AS Dulat, was the chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) during Vajpayee government. Aditya Sinha has been a journalist since February 1987. He has been Editor-in-Chief of the New Indian Express and DNA. The book focuses on initiatives launched by the Vajpayee government between 1998 and 2004 to restore normalcy in India's most beautiful but troubled state.
Question: Who is the author of the book titled ‘India Central Asia Relations: The Economic Dimension’?
A. Vikram Chandra
B. Arundhati Ray
C. Salman Roushdie
D. Amiya Chandra
Answer: D. Amiya Chandra - Amiya Chandra is the Joint Director-General of Foreign Trade in the Union Commerce and Industry Ministry.
Question: Which state government has decided to implement the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 in the state from 1st October’15?
A. Haryana
B. Odisha
C. Delhi
D. Rajasthan
Answer: B. Odisha - The Odisha government has decided to implement the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, in the state from 1st October this year. Food and Consumer Welfare Secretary of Odisha, Madhu Sudan Padhi, told that the state government has initiated the process for identification of the priority households by approving eight exclusion and five auto-inclusion criteria.
Question: On 8th July’15, in which north eastern states pre-paid Taxi facility for popular high altitude destinations like Nathula, Baba Mandir and the picturesque Chhangu lake was launched?
A. Sikkim
B. Nagaland
C. Assam
D. Manipur
Answer: A. Sikkim - The facility was formally launched at the Baluakhani Taxi stand in Gangtok by the State Transport Minister DT Lepcha and Tourism Minister Ugen Gyatso. A total of 40 vehicles have been exclusively earmarked for operations under the prepaid scheme. The aim of launching the prepaid Taxi service is to ensure uniformity in taxi-fairs and saving the tourists from fleecing by the unscrupulous taxi operators.
Question: In which state, the Pandharpur Wari Yatra begins with Palkhi procession on 8th July’15?
A. Gujarat
B. Odisha
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Maharashtra
Answer: D. Maharashtra - Sant Dnnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi will start its journey towards Pandharpur on 9th july’15. Wari is spiritual identity of Maharashtra with a history of more than 800 years. Pune city becomes witness to the vibrations of the prayers and chants as it is well positioned on the route between Alandi, Dehu and Pandharpur. Though the Warkaris are mainly from the farmer community of Maharashtra they are also backed by academicians, professionals, foreigners and people from urban areas within Maharashtra and nearby states.
Question: Who has been appointed as the new Home Secretary of Delhi on 8th July’15?
A. Rajendra Kumar
B. Dharam Pal
C. S N Sahai
D. T R Balu
Answer: C. S N Sahai - Senior IAS officer S N Sahai has been appointed as the new Home Secretary of Delhi. Sources said Home Ministry issued the order appointing Mr. Sahai, a 1986 batch Union Territory cadre officer. Mr. Sahai's name was zeroed in as a compromise candidate for the high post after continuous tussle between the Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung and the Arvind Kejriwal-led government on the issue.
Question: Who has been nominated by China to be the first president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)?
A. Jin Liqun
B. Narendra Modi
C. Xi Jinping
D. Ban Ki Moon
Answer: A. Jin Liqun - He is the former Finance Minster of China. He was nominated by China to be the first president of the Beijing-backed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Question: Name the world’s first female twins to successfully climb Mount Everest?
A. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olse
B. Charlotte and Samantha Ronson
C. Tashi and Nungshi Malik
D. Karen and Kate Elson
Answer: C. Tashi and Nungshi Malik - The siblings had scaled the highest peak in the world on May 19, 2013 at a tender age of 21 and they featured in the 60th edition of Guinness World Records.
Question: Name the first Arab woman to be appointed as an official for the prestigious Wimbledon Grand Slam?
A. Malala Yousafzai
B. Haifa Al Mansour
C. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi
D. Aseel Shaheen
Answer: D. Aseel Shaheen - Every year, the All England Club in London invites 60 overseas officials, and the 41-year-old Shaheen is one of them but the only one to create history.
Question: Name the cricketer who became the first Indian and second in women's ODI history to complete 5000 runs?
A. Jhulan Goswami
B. Rumeli Dhar
C. Mithali Raj
D. Harmanpreet Kaur
Answer: C. Mithali Raj - She is the captain of Indian Women’s cricket team. She reached the record after her unbeaten 81 runs in the match against New Zealand where India was chasing a target of 220 runs. She also received the Arjuna Award in 2003 and the Padma Shri in 2015.
Question: Name the Indian scientist selected to the prestigious Royal Society as a fellow for his pioneering contributions to understanding the population biology of tropical forest trees?
A. Raj Vardhan
B. Kamal Bawa
C. Himakshi Devi
D. None of these
Answer: B. Kamal Bawa - He is an internationally recognised evolutionary ecologist and a distinguished professor of biology at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, was elected a fellow of the London-based society.
Question: In collaboration with which state the International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) launched the Green Phablet for the farmers?
A. Telangana
B. Andhra Pradesh
C. Karnataka
D. Kerala
Answer: A. Telangana - The Hyderabad-headquartered ICRISAT launched the Green Phablet, priced about ?18,600, for farmers in Telangana. The institute would maintain servers to safe keep the information. And even if the users lose their device, they could get back the information in no time.
Question: Name the service that offers on-line platform to citizens for instant signing of their documents securely in a legally acceptable form, under the Indian IT Act 2000 and various Rules and Regulations therein?
A. Digital Sign
B. E- Signature
C. e-Hastakshar
D. i-signature
Answer: C. e-Hastakshar - C-DAC through its e-Hastakshar initiative enables citizens with valid Aadhaar ID and registered mobile number to carryout digital signing of their documents on-line.
Question: Which state has launched the four major digital initiatives on 7th July ’15 on concluding day of Digital India Week?
A. Chhattisgarh
B. Rajasthan
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Haryana
Answer: D. Haryana - The initiatives include Phase-I of PARIVARTAN School MIS portal, ITI online admission portal, Knowledge Lit Career courses introduced by Haryana Knowledge Corporation Limited and implementation of digital university framework in Kurukshetra University.
Question: What percent of voting has been recorded in the Bihar Legislative Council elections held on 7th July’15?
A. 39%
B. 46%
C. 67%
D. 94%
Answer: D. 94% - Election for 24 seats of Bihar Legislative council passed off peacefully. An estimated 94% voting was recorded during poll. Counting of vote will take place on the 10th July’15. All eyes are on the result of this poll as the election has been dubbed as semifinal before the upcoming assembly polls in September-October with a grand alliance of JDU RJD and the NDA taking on each other.
Question: By which year government aims to connect every Panchayat through broadband?
A. 2022
B. 2020
C. 2016
D. 2017
Answer: C. 2016 - As per the statement made by R S Sharma, Secretary Electronics and IT, the government has targeted to connect every Panchayat through broadband by December 2016.
Question: What is the new National Floor Level Minimum Wage w.e.f 1st July’15?
A. 137
B. 160
C. 176
D. 186
Answer: B. 160 - National Floor Level Minimum Wage has been hiked from 137 rupees to 160 rupees per day which will be effective from first of this month.
Question: Name the mobile app launched by National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) on 7th July’15?
A. Pashu Poshan
B. Gau Seva
C. Safed Kranti
D. Dairy App
Answer: A. Pashu Poshan - National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) launched a mobile application that will recommend a balanced diet for cows and buffaloes. It will help boost dairy farmers' income by raising milk yield and cutting feed cost.
Question: In which state, ‘Digital India With Laado’ campaign is launched by the panchayat on 5th July’15?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Punjab
C. Haryana
D. Rajasthan
Answer: C. Haryana - On 5th July’15 Bibipur Panchayat launched “Digital India with Laado”, a campaign to replace names of family-heads in the nameplates with their daughter’s moniker. The representatives would visit every home in Jind and convince people to replace names of the head of the house with that of their daughters.
Question: On 6th July 2015 who has ruled that an unwed mother can be the sole legal guardian of a child without the consent of the father?
A. Supreme Court of India
B. President of India
C. Lok Sabha Speaker
D. Delhi High Court
Answer: A. Supreme Court of India - The apex court further held that it was not required of the mother to disclose the identity of the father and include him as a party to the guardianship petition in certain cases.
Question: Which of the following countries has announced the state of emergency for 30 days on 4th July’15?
A. Syria
B. Greece
C. Tunisia
D. Bangladesh
Answer: C. Tunisia - On 4th July 2015 President of Tunisia Beji Caid Essebsi declared state of emergency in the country for 30 days. The decision was taken against the backdrop of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) gun attack on 26 June 2015 on Hotel Riu Imperial Marhaba on the Mediterranian coast and calls for more such attacks by the militant organisation during the holy month of Ramadan.
Question: Name the IIT-JEE topper nominated as the brand ambassador of Digital India project?
A. Ira Singhal
B. Kruti Tiwari
C. Renu Rao
D. Vandana Gupta
Answer: B. Kruti Tiwari - Kruti had secured 47th rank in this year's JEE Advanced and came first among the women candidates. Kruti will be associated with the Digital India campaign for the next one year, for which she will travel extensively across the country.
Question: In how many International Languages the Incredible India Tourist Helpline will be started within a period of two months to assist the tourists visiting India?
A. 4
B. 8
C. 12
D. 14
Answer: C. 12 - The Helpline is currently operational in two languages in English and Hindi.
Question: On 6th July, India launched the four World Class Broadband products. The product was developed by ______.
A. Bharat Electronics Limited
B. CDAC-Pune
C. IIT-Kanpur
D. C-DOT
Answer: D. C-DOT - Two Wi-Fi products launched by C-DOT viz. Long Distance Wi-Fi and Solar powered Wi-Fi address the connectivity problem of rural areas, hilly terrain, highways, dense vegetation, tunnels etc. C-DOT has also developed a light weight Green Power Source to make the solution self-sustainable. Using this solution, reach of BharatNet can be increased beyond Panchayats to the remotest part of country. 100 Gbps OFC link system called “Suteevra” addresses the telco’s requirement of optimizing communication transport backbone in smart cities, IT parks, Industrial Complexes, Inter City Traffic, Data Centres etc.
Question: Name the Greek Finance Minister who has resigned after Greek voters delivered an overwhelming "No" vote in a referendum on whether to accept more austerity measures in return for new bailout cash?
A. Alexis Tsipras
B. Francois Hollande
C. Yanis Varoufakis
D. Angela Merkel
Answer: C. Yanis Varoufakis - In a statement published on his personal blog on 6th July’15, Varoufakis said he was stepping down to allow Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to reach a new deal with European creditors. The announcement came as European Union leaders scrambled for a response following the overwhelming "No" vote in yesterday's referendum.
Question: At which place the Nakshtra Vatika was inaugurated by the President Pranab Mukherjee on 6th July’15?
A. Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Dellhi
B. Sansad Bhawan, New Delhi
C. Vidhan Bhawan, Bengaluru
D. Rastrapti Nilayam, Bollaram
Answer: D. Rastrapti Nilayam, Bollaram - The Nakshtra Vatika is the garden of plants with medicinal values and represents the Nava Grahaas and the 27 stars in the lunar calendar. The plants are arranged in such a manner to coincide the planetary arrangements.
Question: Under which initiative the website of Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has been launched on 6th July’15?
A. Digital India
B. e-Suvidha
C. e-Banking
D. e-Migrate
Answer: A. Digital India - Secretary, Labour and Employment Shankar Aggarwal on 6th July ’15 launched the Website of Employees’ Provident Fund Organization, EPFO, as part of Digital India Infrastructure.
Question: 114th birth anniversary of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was observed on ________.
A. 4th July’15
B. 5th July’15
C. 6th July’15
D. 7th July’15
Answer: C. 6th July’15
Question: Which country lifted the FIFA Women's World Cup 2015?
A. United States
B. Canada
C. Germany
D. Japan
Answer: A. United States - United States lifted the FIFA Women's World Cup for the third time. US defeated Japan in the finals.
Question: Which country has won the South Asian Basketball Championship, SABA title on 5th July’15?
A. Sri Lanka
B. China
C. India
D. Nepal
Answer: C. India - India retained the title defeating Sri Lanka in the final held in Bengaluru. The top three teams were India (gold), Sri Lanka (silver) and Nepal (bronze).
Question: As per the RBI notification issued on first week of July 2015, foreign direct investment is prohibited in manufacturing of which product?
A. Food
B. Leather
C. Cotton
D. Tobacco
Answer: D. Tobacco - In a notification, RBI said Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is prohibited in the manufacturing of cigars, cheroots, cigarillos and cigarettes, of tobacco or of tobacco substitutes.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Director of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) on 3rd July’15?
A. C D Balaji
B. P S Subramanyam
C. R S Pillai
D. Vijay Chauhan
Answer: A. C D Balaji - Commodore C D Balaji (Retd) on 3rd July’15 took charge as the Director of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Programme Director of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). He succeeded P S Subramanyam, Distinguished Scientist.
Question: Name the person selected for the 2015 World Food Prize?
A. Dr. Norman E Bourlaug
B. Dr. Christopher
C. Sir Fazle Hasan Abed
D. None of these
Answer: C. Sir Fazle Hasan Abed - He was selected for the prestigious award for his contributions towards reducing hunger in Bangladesh and 10 other countries through his organisation Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC).
Question: In which state of India Microsoft has agreed to set up a digital village?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Telangana
D. Maharashtra
Answer: D. Maharashtra - Microsoft agreed to provide technology support for health care services in remote tribal areas; it will setup a pilot project at Melghat in Amravati district in this regard. Microsoft has adopted Melghat village.
Question: Name the Indian American Professor who was nominated for the GCHERA World Agriculture Prize 2015?
A. Dr. Arun Sharma
B. R Paul Singh
C. P Sitaraman
D. Dr. Ajay Singh
Answer: B. R Paul Singh - GCHERA stands for Global Confederation for Higher Education Associations for Agriculture and Life Sciences. The award will be officially presented on 20 September 2015 during the GCHERA World Agricultural Prize Award Ceremony that will take place at Nanjing Agricultural University, China.
Question: Name the dean of a medical college in Madhya Pradesh who was assisting the Vyapam Scam Investigation and found dead on 5th July’15 in a Delhi Hotel?
A. Arun Sharma
B. Akhilesh Mavlankar
C. Amrutananad Sharma
D. Akshay Sharma
Answer: A. Arun Sharma - His body was found in his room at Uppal Hotel near the Indira Gandhi International airport. He was the dean of MS Medical College in Jabalpur, assisting the Special Task Force set up to probe the recruitment scam in the Madhya Pradesh Vyavsayik Pareeksha Mandal (Vyapam) by providing documents on fake medical entrance examinees in the state-run medical college.
Question: Name the driver won the British Grand Prix held on 5th July’15?
A. Nico Rosberg
B. Sebastian Vettel
C. Daniil Kvyat
D. Lewis Hamilton
Answer: D. Lewis Hamilton - Lewis Hamilton took British Grand Prix glory for the third time in a pulsating competition at Silverstone.
Question: Name the aspirant who topped the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination declared on 4th July 2015?
A. Renu Raj
B. Nidhi Gupta
C. Ira Singhal
D. Iravati Mittal
Answer: C. Ira Singhal - Ira Singhal belonged to Delhi while second and third places were secured by Renu Raj (Kerala) and Nidhi Gupta (Delhi).
Question: Name the country that lifted the 44th edition of COPA America-South America's most prestigious football trophy?
A. Chile
B. Argentina
C. Barcelona
D. France
Answer: A. Chile - This was also Chile's first ever international trophy. Chile created history by winning the Copa America tournament for 2015 on 4 July 2015.
Question: On 5th July’15 which state government has launched a state-wide novel campaign to motivate people in general and vehicle drivers in particular to pledge their eyes and other body parts?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Kerala
C. West Bengal
D. Punjab
Answer: D. Punjab - Punjab Government has launched a state-wide novel campaign to motivate people in general and vehicle drivers in particular to pledge their eyes and other body parts to benefit lakhs of visually impaired people of the country and other patients in dire need of transplantation of various body parts.
Question: In which pilgrimage towns National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed a complete ban on plastic bags on 2nd July’15?
A. Gaya
B. Haridwar
C. Rishikesh
D. Ujjain
Answer: B. Hardwar and C. Rishikesh. - It also fixed a penalty of 5000 rupees on anyone found violating the order. The penalty will be charged as compensation for degradation of environment.
Question: Name the prototype of first MARS airplane tested by the NASA during June’15?
A. Prdtlan-m aircraft
B. Banrdtl- A aircraft
C. Prandtl-m Aircraft
D. Arandtl-m aircraft
Answer: C. Prandtl-m Aircraft - Prandtl stands for the Preliminary Research Aerodynamic Design to Land on Mars and it was developed by NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Centre. It is a prototype of the Prandtl-m aircraft, touted as the first airplane to be launched on Mars between 2020 and 2024.
Question: Name the online registration system launched by India for foreign employers (FEs) who want to recruit Indian workers?
A. eRecruit System
B. eWorker System
C. eMigrate System
D. eForeign System
Answer: C. eMigrate System - India in June 2015 launched online registration system named eMigrate system (www.emigrate.gov.in) for foreign employers (FEs) who wants to recruit Indian workers, including nurses. Under the system, FEs will have to register in the eMigrate system.
Question: Which bank has launched the Project Tatkal an initiative to provide doorstep services and expedite Home Loan Application (HLA) process on 3rd July 2015?
A. Punjab National Bank
B. State Bank of India
C. Bank of India
D. Corporation Bank
Answer: B. State Bank of India - The project will help home loan applicants to get the loan within 10 days after receipt of application form and relevant supporting documents.
Question: In which country 2016 Olympics will be organised?
A. Brazil
B. Australia
C. China
D. South Korea
Answer: A. Brazil - In the first week of July 2015 Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has unveiled the torch to be used at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Question: Which Institute is set to launch a computer aided digital design programme for weavers and artisans of the Assam state under the Digital India Campaign?
A. IIT Guwhati
B. DRDO
C. IIIT Allahabad
D. CDAC, Silchar
Answer: D. CDAC, Silchar - C-DAC, Silchar is the only such centre in entire North-eastern region. C-DAC is a research and development organisation under the Department of Electronics and Information Technology. The digital design project was meant only for weavers and craftsmen.
Question: Nirvan Diwas of Swami Vivekananda is observed on ____.
A. 3rd July
B. 4th July
C. 5th July
D. 6th July
Answer: B. 4th July - Swami Vivekananda (12 January 1863 – 4 July 1902), born Narendra Nath Datta was an Indian Hindu monk and chief disciple of the 19th century saint Ramakrishna.
Question: 239th Independence Day of United States of America is being observed on _______.
A. 2nd July 2015
B. 3rd July 2015
C. 4th July 2015
D. 5th July 2015
Answer: C. 4th July 2015
Question: On 1st July’15 in which North-eastern state’s Assembly a proposal is tabled to lift the ban on the manufacture and sale of liquor nearly 24 years after prohibition was imposed in the state?
A. Assam
B. Meghalaya
C. Sikkim
D. Manipur
Answer: D. Manipur - Nearly 24 years after prohibition was imposed in Manipur, the state, for the first time, is planning to lift the ban on the manufacture and sale of liquor, with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh tabling a proposal for the same in the Assembly.
Question: Name the player who won the 19th Commonwealth Chess Championship held in Mumbai?
A. Abhijeet Gupta
B. Arghyadip Das
C. M R Lalith Babu
D. S Vijaylakshmi
Answer: A. Abhijeet Gupta - He won the Gold Medal after a quick draw with his opponent Arghyadip Das.
Question: As per the data released by World Bank on 2nd July’15, at the end of which year Indian economy stood at $2.06 trillion?
A. 2012
B. 2014
C. 2010
D. 2004
Answer: B. 2014 - The World Bank data disclosed that the size of Indian economy stood at $2.06 trillion at the end of 2014. It has almost doubled in size since the financial crisis hit the country in 2008, and has more than quadrupled from the start of this millennium.
Question: Who has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Tata Motors' Group with effect from 1st July’15?
A. Pawan Mistry
B. C Ramarao
C. Chandrasekaran Ramakrishnan
D. Ajeet Bhattacharya
Answer: C. Chandrasekaran Ramakrishnan - With this, he will continue as Chief Financial Officer and Key Managerial Personnel for Tata Motors Limited.
Question: In which state was ‘Mhara Gaon- Jagmag Gaon’ scheme launched on 1st July’15?
A. Haryana
B. Punjab
C. Rajasthan
D. Chhattisgarh
Answer: A. Haryana - With this, Haryana became the first state in the country to launch such an innovative voluntary scheme. The state will bear an additional expenditure of 15 to 20 lakh rupees per village for implementation of this scheme. The scheme aimed at providing 24 hour uninterrupted power supply to rural domestic consumers in a phased manner with their active participation.
Question: Which food agency on 1st July’15 gave clean chit to Nestle’s 2-minute Maggi noodles manufactured in India?
A. The Food Standards Agency of United States
B. The Food Standards Agency of Australia
C. The Food Standards Agency of Germany
D. The Food Standards Agency of United Kingdom
Answer: D. The Food Standards Agency of United Kingdom - FSA in its release said that levels of lead in the product are well within European Union permissible levels and would not be a concern to consumers. United Kingdom Food Standards Agency (UK FSA) decided to test a selection of Maggi Noodles as a precaution after the product was banned in India on 5 June 2015.
Question: Name the women nominated as first female judge of Afghanistan Supreme Court on 30th June’15?
A. Anisa Rasouli
B. Shabnam Raza
C. Samina Khatoon
D. Malala Khan
Answer: A. Anisa Rasouli - Afghan President Ashraf Ghani nominated her name as the female judge of the nine-member bench Supreme Court and now, Rasouli’s nomination will require an approval from the Parliament.
Question: Nationwide mobile number portability, MNP which will allow customers to keep their existing mobile phone numbers while shifting between States and circles will be operational from _____.
A. 1st July 2015
B. 2nd July 2015
C. 3rd July 2015
D. 4th July 2015
Answer: C. 3rd July 2015 - Presently, users can change their operator while retaining the same number only in the same State or telecom circle. To avail of the new facility, subscribers will have to visit a store of their telecom operator or call the customer care number concerned. The deadline earlier was May 2nd to roll out full MNP was delayed by 2 months after the Cellular Operators Association of India asked for extension from Department of Telecom as telecom operators needed to make some technical changes to their networks to implement the service.
Question: Name the Indian-American teacher who has been named by President Barack Obama for prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching?
A. Darshan Jain
B. Arunima Singh
C. Prerna Mishra
D. Sujeet Mehta
Answer: A. Darshan Jain - The teacher, Darshan Jain and other winners will receive a ten-thousand Dollars award each from the National Science Foundation. Obama has named 108 Mathematics and Science teachers as recipients of the Award.
Question: In which state an ambitious campaign ‘Har Ghar Dastak’ has been launched on 2nd July’15?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Bihar
C. Assam
D. Rajasthan
Answer: B. Bihar - In Bihar, on 2nd July’15 JD(U) kicked off "Har Ghar Dastak, (a knock on every door)," an ambitious campaign to reach three crore voters for the state elections to be held later this year. Chief Minister Nitish kumar started this campaign at Paschim Darwaja locality in Patna. Mr. Kumar knocked ten doors of the locality. He highlighted his government’s achievement before people. The party has instructed its Ministers, MPs, Legislators and office bearers to visit at least ten doors of the state. This campaign will continue for one month with an interval of ten days.
Question: On 2nd July’15 Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar launched a web portal for online submission of applications for environment clearance by State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities for Category B projects. How many states have joined the web portal instantly?
A. 5
B. 11
C. 19
D. 22
Answer: C. 19 - Last year, the Ministry had launched the online application system for Environmental Clearance for Category Á projects. While applications for Category Á projects come to the Ministry for approval, applications under Category ‘B’ projects do not come to the Ministry and are dealt with at the State level itself.
Question: Which state government has announced on 2nd July’15 that “Madrasas that do not teach primary subjects such as English, Maths and Science would be derecognized”?
A. Telangana
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Jammu & Kashmir
D. Maharashtra
Answer: D. Maharashtra - The state Minorities Affairs Minister Eknath Khadse told reporters that madrasas not teaching modern subjects would be considered as "non-schools" and children studying in them as "out of school" students.
Question: What is the speed of 5G (Fifth Generation) standard for mobile networking as defined by International Telecommunication Union during June’15?
A. 12Gbps
B. 15Gbps
C. 20Gbps
D. 30Gbps
Answer: C. 20Gbps - The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) defined the speed of 5G (Fifth Generation) standard for mobile networking as 20 Gigabits per second (Gbps). A decision was taken in this regard at an ITU conference on 5G standard held at San Diego in California of USA between 10 June and 18 June 2015.
Question: Name the person known for developing SMS through mobile communication who passed away in June’15?
A. Martin Cooper
B. Joel S Engel
C. VA Shiva Ayyadurai
D. Matti Makkonen
Answer: D. Matti Makkonen - Matti Makkonen was a Finnish engineer in the field of mobile communications. He became famous as the father of SMS after developing the idea of sending messages via mobile networks.
Question: As announced by the World Health Organisation on 30th June’15, which country has become the first country in the world to stamp out transmission of HIV and syphilis from a mother to her child?
A. France
B. India
C. Cuba
D. Switzerland
Answer: C. Cuba - WHO defines “elimination” of transmission as “reduction of transmission to such a low level that it no longer constitutes a public health problem.” A panel of international health experts visited Cuba in March and concluded that the country met the standards required for validation. In 2013, only two babies were born with HIV and five with congenital syphilis.
Question: Who has been appointed as Secretary of Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises on 1st July’15?
A. Dr Anup K Pujari
B. Madhav Lal
C. Anup Kumar
D. Dr Rishish Singhal
Answer: A. Dr Anup K Pujari - Before joining the Ministry of MSME, Dr. Pujari was holding the charge of Secretary, Mines. Dr Anup K Pujari IAS (KN 80) joined as Secretary MSME here on 1st July’15. He succeeds Shri Madhav Lal who superannuated on June, 30 2015.
Question: Under which scheme, Digital ‘Guddi-Gudda Board’ innovated by Jalgaon District of Maharashtara has been adopted as a Best Practice by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development on the occasion of Digital India Week being observed from 1st July to 7th July’15?
A. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
B. Jan Dhan Yojana
C. Sukanya Vidyadhan Yojana
D. Digital India
Answer: A. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao - The digital Board has been popularized in the district of Jalgaon, Maharashtra and works as a platform for dissemination of IEC Material on BBBP as well as updating monthly birth statistics.
Question: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is seen as a rival to the ______.
A. Federal Bank
B. Reserve Bank of India
C. Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Limited
D. World Bank
Answer: D. World Bank - AIIB will have authorised capital of 100 billion US Dollars, and Asian countries will contribute up to 75 per cent of the total capital. Each member will be allocated a share of the quota based on their Economic size and not contribution to the Bank's authorised capital. AIIB is expected to go into operation later this year.
Question: Name the country to become the largest shareholder in Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank?
A. Japan
B. Australia
C. China
D. India
Answer: C. China - China being the largest shareholder at 30.34 per cent and it has retained 26.06 per cent of the voting rights. With Japan, the other large Asian economy besides China, opting out of the Bank's membership, India is its second largest shareholder with a stake of 8.52 per cent and voting share of 7.5 per cent.
Question: Which country becomes first developed nation to default on International Monetary Fund debt?
A. Denver
B. Greece
C. United States
D. Cuba
Answer: B. Greece - Greece has defaulted on a 1.7 billion dollar payment to the International Monetary Fund becoming the first developed nation to do so. The deadline was missed by Athens hours after Eurozone Finance Ministers refused to extend its bailout. Greece is now formally in arrears, and there are fears that this could put Greece at risk of leaving the Euro.
Question: Who has been selected for G D Birla Award for Scientific Research -2014?
A. Prof. Sanjeev Galande
B. Prof. R K Singh
C. Prof. V P Sinha
D. Prof. Sanjay Kumar
Answer: A. Prof. Sanjeev Galande - Prof. Sanjeev Galande of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune has been selected for G D Birla Award for Scientific Research -2014. Mr. Galande has been selected for his significant contribution in the area of Epigenetics and Molecular Cell Biology.
Question: As per the report of World Cellular Information Service (WCIS), which Indian telecom company has become the world’s third largest mobile operator in the world?
A. Airtel
B. BSNL
C. Idea
D. Tata Docomo
Answer: A. Airtel - Airtel has hit the 300 million mobile subscriber’s mark just six years after hitting the 100 million subscribers mark in 2009.
Question: Which bank has collaborated with the travel company MakeMyTrip.com on 30th June’15?
A. Punjab National Bank
B. United Bank of India
C. Bank of India
D. State Bank of India
Answer: D. State Bank of India - The partnership between SBI and MakeMyTrip.com includes partnership with personal banking unit for consumer facing propositions – including EMIs on purchase of holidays & international travel, customized travel products.
Question: As per the survey by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) released on 30th June’15, what was the literacy rate in rural areas in the year 2014?
A. 61%
B. 34%
C. 71%
D. 86%
Answer: C. 71% -- The literacy rate in the rural areas was pegged at 71% last year, compared to 86% in the urban areas. It said that among the age group of seven year and above, the male literacy rate was registered at 83 per cent vis-a-vis the female literacy rate of 67 per cent. According to the survey, in the rural areas nearly 4.5 per cent of males and 2.2 per cent of females completed education level of graduation and above, while in urban areas 17 per cent of males and 13 per cent of females completed this level of education.
Question: Which court has allowed Nestle India to export Maggi Noodles while continuing with the ban on sale in India?
A. Allahabad High Court
B. Supreme Court
C. Delhi High Court
D. Bombay High Court
Answer: D. Bombay High Court - While continuing with the ban on sale of Nestle’s 2-minute Maggie noodles in India, Bombay High Court today granted permission to Nestle India to export the product. The court was hearing the petition filed by Nestle India against food safety regulator FSSAI's country-wide ban of Maggi noodles demanding revoking of the ban of the sale of Maggie in the country.
Question: Who was elected as the first president of the Lok Sevak Mandal?
A. Madan Mohan Malviya
B. Lala Lajpat Rai
C. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
D. Lal Bahadur Shastri
Answer: B. Lala Lajpat Rai - Lala Lajpat Rai was the first President of the organisation. The 94 year old welfare organisation was established by Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai. Some prominent personalities who had been President of the Mandal include Rajarshi Purushottam Das Tandon, former Gujarat Chief Minister Balvant Rai Mehta, former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and renowned socialite and eminent journalist Dr.Radhanath Rath. The Mandal has branches in Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Odisha which are engaged in various health and developmental works.
Question: Who has been elected as the President of Lok Sevak Mandal on 29th June’15?
A. Deepak Sharma
B. Ajay Pratap Singh
C. Deepak Malaviya
D. Shankar Singh
Answer: C. Deepak Malaviya - He was elected at the General Council Meeting held in New Delhi yesterday. He is the youngest President of the organisation. The 94 year old welfare organisation was established by Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai. Octogenarian Sarvodaya leader and socialite Kirti Bhai Pandya has been elected as Vice President and journalist and littérateur Niranjan Rath as National Secretary of the organisation.
Question: Name the company that has ordered the withdrawal of its instant noodles brand from the Indian market following an advisory from central food safety regulator, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)?
A. Hindustan Unilever Ltd.
B. Indo Nissin
C. Britannia Foods
D. Jubiliant Foods
Answer: B. Indo Nissin - Indo Nissin Foods has ordered the withdrawal of its instant noodles brand Top Ramen from the Indian market following an advisory from central food safety regulator Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. A statement from Indo Nissin Foods Private Limited said, they had sought clarification from FSSAI since Top Ramen product approval is pending with them. It said, FSSAI has requested them to withdraw the product until it gives the approval.
Question: Who has been appointed as Additional Director in the CBI on 30th June’15?
A. Y C Modi
B. Ajit Doval
C. Vivek Debroi
D. R R Bhatnagar
Answer: A. Y C Modi - He is a 1984 batch IPS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre. Y C Modi, who had been part of a Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed 2002 Gujarat riots cases, has been appointed as Additional Director in the CBI.
Question: In which country, a signing ceremony for the official creation of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is going to be held on 29th June’15?
(A) Australia
(B) Sri Lanka
(C) India
(D) China
Answer: (D) China - President Xi Jinping is scheduled to meet the heads of the delegations representing the prospective founding members of the bank. A meeting of Finance Ministers of the 57 countries involved is also scheduled to take place. The China-proposed bank is expected to begin operating later this year with startup capital of around 100 billion US dollars.
Question: On 29th June’15, in which state the metro rail service will be inaugurated by the state chief minister?
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Uttar Pradesh
(C) Rajasthan
(D) Kerala
Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu - Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Ms. Jayalalithaa will inaugurate the metro rail service in Chennai. She will be inaugurating the first stretch of 10 kms through video conferencing from the secretariat.
Question: At which place the Wimbledon Tennis Championships will begin from 29th June’15?
(A) Moscow
(B) Warsaw
(C) Sydney
(D) London
Answer: (D) London - Defending champion and world number one Novak Djokovic will open the play at the Centre Court against Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber. Women's world number one Serena Williams will also be seen in action in the opening round today against Russian Margarita Gasparyan. In the Doubles, Rohan Bopanna will begin India's campaign in this oldest and the most prestigious tennis tournament.
Question: What is the minimum Export price of Onion as hiked by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade?
(A) 410 dollar per tonne
(B) 425 dollar per tonne
(C) 390 dollar per tonne
(D) 510 dollar per tonne
Answer: (B) 425 dollar per tonne - According to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade the MEP for export of all varieties of onions will be 425 dollar per tonne. MEP is the rate below which no exports are allowed.
Question: Name the Indian pair that lifted the women's doubles title of the Canada Open Badminton tournament?
(A) Jwala Gutta & Ashwni Ponappa
(B) B Sai Praneeth & Sania Nehwal
(C) Jwala Gutta & Ajay Jayaram
(D) B Sai Praneeth & Ajay Jayaram
Answer: (A) Jwala Gutta & Ashwni Ponappa - In the final played at Calgary the third seeded Indian duo ousted top Dutch pair of Eefje Muskens and Selena Piek. This was their first title of this season.
Question: Name the rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS) that exploded just after its lift-off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on 28 June 2015?
(A) SpaceX Falcon 8
(B) SpaceX Falcon 7
(C) SpaceX Falcon 10
(D) SpaceX Falcon 9
Answer: (D) SpaceX Falcon 9 - The 19th Falcon 9 rocket of privately-owned SpaceX company was on its mission to the International Space Station (ISS) when it exploded about two minutes after lifting-off from Cape Canaveral air base in Florida.
Question: Name the Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand who was recalled by the Indian Govt. on 27 June 2015 after assault allegations surfaced against his wife?
(A) Sanjay Mitra
(B) Rishish Kumar
(C) Ravi Thapar
(D) Abhijeet Sharma
Answer: (C) Ravi Thapar -  Ravi Thapar is India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, was recalled after allegations of assault were levelled against his wife, Sharmila, by a member of the couple's domestic staff.
Question: Name the largest employer in the world as per the report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) during June 2015?
(A) Indian Railways
(B) U.S. Dept. of Defense
(C) Chinese Military
(D) Indian Army
Answer: (B) U.S. Dept. of Defense -  U.S. Department of Defense is world’s largest employer with around 3.2 million employees on its roll. It is followed by People’s Liberation Army (the Chinese military) with 2.3 million. In 3rd place is Walmart (2.1 million). The Indian Railways is the 8th largest employer in the world with 1.4 employees.
Question: The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation on 25th June 2015 approved a proposal for setting up a second international airport in the National Capital Region at which place?
(A) Greater Noida
(B) Noida
(C) Ghaziabad
(D) Gurgaon
Answer: (A) Greater Noida - The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation on 25 June 2015 approved a proposal for setting up a second international airport at Jewar in the National Capital Region.
Question: Name the weekly news programme in Sanskrit language launched on 28th June’15 by the Doordarshan Channel?
(A) VASUDHAIV KUTUMBKAM
(B) VARTTAVALI
(C) SAMACHAARAH
(D) SAMARPAYAMI
Answer: (B) VARTTAVALI - The programme named "VARTTAVALI" includes news, features and discussions and focuses on events from around the world.
Question: Which state has welcomed the proposal of NITI Aayog to prune the list of centrally sponsored schemes and enhance the share of flexi funds?
(A) Uttar Pradesh
(B) Gujarat
(C) Madhya Pradesh
(D) Punjab
Answer: (D) Punjab - Punjab Chief Minister, Parkash Singh Badal said they have been pursuing this agenda since long so as to empower the states for ensuring the welfare of people in a far more effective manner.
Question: Name the MP who has suggested Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to stop catering subsidies for MPs in the parliament canteen immediately?
(A) Maneka Gandhi
(B) Shanta Kumar
(C) Uma Bharti
(D) Rajnath Singh
Answer: (B) Shanta Kumar - Mr. Shanta Kumar is a senior BJP leader and MP from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. In a letter written to the Speaker , he said that in last few days this subsidies has been the subject of discussion in the media and people's representatives are being mocked in the country. He said that MPs are able to spend on their refreshments and food therefore there is no need of such subsidy.
Question: ICC Annual Conference 2015 was held in _____.
(A) New Delhi
(B) Barbados
(C) Sydney
(D) Auckland
Answer: (B) Barbados

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS AUGUST 2015 (344 Questions)

Question: On which of the following the United States has extended the anti-dumping duty for another five years?
A. Indian Alphonso
B. Indian Potato
C. Indian preserved Mushroom
D. Indian Tea
Answer: C. Indian preserved Mushroom 
'Preserved mushrooms' refer to mushrooms that have been prepared or preserved by cleaning, blanching, and sometimes slicing and cutting. Mushrooms are very nutritious, rich in proteins, fibre and have folic acid content that is uncommon in vegetables and amino acids which are usually absent in cereals. An official in Delhi has confirmed that the US International Trade Commission has extended the restrictive duty on the Indian commodity for five years. The move is likely to impact domestic exporters as the US is a major export destination for India. In 2014-15, India exported mushrooms worth 16.08 million dollars and during April-May this fiscal the exports aggregated at 1.63 million dollars.
Question: Name the former vice-chancellor of Kannada University who was shot dead in Dharwad district of Karnataka on 30th Aug’15?
A. Dr. M.M. Kalburgi
B. Dr. M.K. Sinha
C. Dr. Yesho Yarlagadda
D. Dr. Hemant Rao
Answer: A. Dr. M.M. Kalburgi 
He was shot dead by unidentified persons at his residence in Dharwad and rushed to the civil hospital, where he was declared dead. The 77 year old Kannada epigraphist and renowned scholar of vachana literature Kalburgi was awarded the Sahitya Akademi award, Nrupatunga Award and Pampa award for his contribution to Kannada literature.
Question: At which place, has a team of NASA's six people shut itself inside a dome for a year, in the longest US isolation experiment aimed at helping NASA prepare for a pioneering journey to Mars
A. Greenland
B. Hawaii
C. Alaska
D. Florida
Answer: B. Hawaii 
The crew includes a French astrobiologist, a German physicist and four Americans - a pilot, an architect, a doctor/journalist and a soil scientist. They are based on a barren, northern slope of Mauna Loa, living inside a dome that is 11 metres in diameter and about six metres tall. In a place with no animals and little vegetation around, they closed themselves in on 28th Aug’15 at 3 pm Hawaii time, marking the official start to the twelve months mission.
Question: Which of the following countries is recognised as the largest groups coming into the United States, according to the US Census Bureau research release in May’15?
A. Mexico
B. China
C. India
D. Colombia
Answer: A. Mexico 
Mexicans still dominate the overall composition of immigrants in the US, accounting for more than a quarter of the foreign-born people. But of the 1.2 million newly arrived immigrants in the US, legally and illegally counted in the 2013 census, China led with one lakh and 47 thousand, followed by India with one lakh and 29 thousand and Mexico with 125,000. Immigrants from China and India have overtaken Mexicans as the largest groups coming into the United States. The shift has been building for more than a decade and experts say it's bringing more highly skilled immigrants in the US.
Question: Name the tropical storm that weakened over Cuba, after bringing death and destruction in the Caribbean to Dominica and Haiti?
A. Soulder
B. Erika
C. Katrina
D. La Nino
Answer: B. Erika 
The National Hurricane Center in Miami said that while the storm has weakened, it could rebuild as it passes over the Gulf of Mexico. Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency on 28th Aug’15.
Question: Name the U.S. National Security Adviser to arrive Islamabad on a previously unannounced visit for talks with senior Pakistani government and military officials on 30th Aug’15?
A. Richard Rahul Paul
B. Hillary Clinton
C. Susan Rice
D. Samantha Daniel
Answer: C. Susan Rice 
The US State Department said the talks were expected to focus on mutual interests and areas of concern, particularly terrorist and militant attacks emanating from Pakistani soil. Rice also is likely to discuss Pakistan's role in Afghanistan's effort to negotiate peace with the Taliban and a recent rise in tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi.
Question: Name the Prime Minister of Malaysia against whom the people held protests in Kuala Lumpur and demanded resignation over financial scandal?
A. Najib Razak
B. Abdul Rahman
C. Abdullah Ahmad Badawi
D. Hussein Onn
Answer: A. Najib Razak
Protesters slept out overnight in Kuala Lumpur after the first day of a rally that has brought into the streets a political crisis triggered by reports of a mysterious transfer worth more than 600 million dollars into an account under Mr Najib's name. Mr Najib, who has denied any wrongdoing, has sacked his deputy and ministers who had questioned him.
Question: Name the president of the 70th Session of UN General Assembly on a two day visit to India from 30th Aug’15?
A. Poul Nyrup Rasmussen
B. Ban Ki Moon
C. Condalisa Rice
D. Mogens Lykketoft
Answer: D. Mogens Lykketoft 
Mr. Lykketoft was unanimously elected by the General Assembly as the President of the 70th Session on 15th June this year and is scheduled to assume his new responsibilities with the commencement of the Session from 15th of next month. Earlier, Mr. Lykketoft was the Speaker of the Danish Parliament and has served as Finance Minister and Foreign Minister of Denmark.
Question: Sanskrit Diwas was observed on _____.
A. 28th Aug’15
B. 29th Aug’15
C. 30th Aug’15
D. 31st Aug’15
Answer: C. 30th Aug’15 
To mark the 'Sanskrit Diwas' celebrations public broadcaster Doordarshan News has launched an exclusive Facebook page and a Twitter handle in that language.
Question: On 31st Aug’15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release a special digital version of epic Ramcharitmanas produced by All India Radio. When was the Ramcharitmanas composed for the first time at Akashvani?
A. 1950
B. 1980
C. 1999
D. 2010
Answer: B. 1980 
The Ramcharitmanas was composed and recorded for the first time in 1980 at Akashvani Bhopal.
Question: With which country has India signed an agreement to improve international tax compliance apart from a multi-lateral agreement to automatically exchange information based on Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters?
A. Seychelles
B. Mauritius
C. United States
D. Singapore
Answer: C. United States 
In regard to this, RBI has asked all banks and financial institutions to be prepared for the implementation of Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act – FATCA. RBI has said that non-compliance of the rules can lead to huge penalties in addition to loss of reputation.
Question: When did Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) celebrated its first Anniversary?
A. 27th Aug’15
B. 18th Aug’15
C. 28th Aug’15
D. 30th Aug’15
Answer: C. 28th Aug’15 
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is the biggest financial inclusion initiative in the world. It was announced by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 15th Aug’14 and Mega launch was done by him on 28th August 2014 across the country.
Question: Name the author of the book “1965: Stories from the Second Indo-Pak War” launched on 28th Aug’15?
A. Hamid Ansari
B. Rachna Bisht Rawat
C. Let Gen K J Singh
D. None of these
Answer: B. Rachna Bisht Rawat 
The book includes five key battles from the 1965 war and is extensively researched, with interviews and profiles of war veterans.
Question: Name the president of the Greece Supreme Court who was sworn in as the first female prime minister in the nation's history?
A. Tina Birbili
B. Louka Katseli
C. Vassiliki Thanou
D. Elpida Tsouri
Answer: C. Vassiliki Thanou 
The appointments come a day after Supreme Court head Vassiliki Thanou was sworn into office. The 65-year-old was appointed after outgoing Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras resigned last week, barely seven months into his four-year mandate, following a rebellion by members of his radical-left Syriza party who objected to his agreement with the conditions of Greece's third international bailout.
Question: Name the scheme launched by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry for online LPG connections on 30th Aug’15 to give more convenience to new LPG consumers?
A. SEHAT
B. SWASTHYA
C. SAHAJ
D. SAHARSH
Answer: C. SAHAJ 
The facility was simultaneously launched at Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Patna and Pune. All state-run fuel retailers would be joining the e-tail bandwagon with a web-based system for selling new LPG connections. The new system would be available on the websites of each oil company and the government's LPG portal, Pahal.
Question: In which city the Shahi Snan of Kumbh Mela took place on 29th Aug’15?
A. Prayag
B. Kashi
C. Haridwar
D. Nashik
Answer: D. Nashik 
Over 7 lakh devotees took bath in the first main bathing ceremony of the Singhasth Kumbh being organized at Trimbakeshwar in Nashik on 29th Aug’15.
Question: Aurangzeb Road will be renamed after which personality as announced by the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) on 28th Aug’15?
A. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
B. Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
C. Indira Gandhi
D. Sardar Vallab Bhai Patel
Answer: A. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
Question: On 28th Aug’15 Indian women’s hockey team created history as it made its return to the Olympics. After how many years Indian Women’s Hockey team will play in the Olympics 2016?
A. 20 years
B. 22 years
C. 16 years
D. 36 years
Answer: D. 36 years 
The fifth-place finish at the Hockey World League semi-finals earlier in July this year was enough for India to clinch an Olympic berth as a place opened up after the Netherlands and England reached the final of the EuroHockey Championships in London.
Question: Who has won the women's marathon at World Athletics Championships in Beijing?
A. Mare Dibaba
B. Novlene Williams
C. Francena McCorory
D. Asbel Kiprop
Answer:  A. Mare Dibaba 
Ethiopia's Mare Dibaba won the women's marathon at the world athletics championships after a thrilling sprint finish in Beijing. The 25-year-old Dibaba out-kicked Kenya's Helah Kiprop to win the grueling event by just one second, crossing the finish line in two hours, 27 minutes and 35 seconds. Ethiopia has a long and proud tradition in marathon running but Dibaba was the first Ethiopian female to win the lung-sapping event at the world championships.
Question: Why China is granting official pardons to its thousands of convicted war veterans as well as very young and old prisoners meeting certain criteria?
A. To mark the C-J Day
B. To mark the Republic Day of China
C. To mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II
D. All of these
Answer: C. To mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II 
The prisoner amnesty law, promulgated by President Xi Jinping on 29th Aug’15, comes 40 years after China granted an amnesty to war criminals in 1975. Amnesty is a system under the Constitution in China, which has long stressed governing by virtue and laws. This is the eight amnesty granted by the People's Republic of China since its founding in 1949.
Question: Which of the following banks has launched the India's first mortgage guarantee-backed home loan product ‘Extraa Home Loan’?
A. State bank of India
B. Bank of Baroda
C. ICICI Bank
D. HDFC Bank
Answer: C. ICICI Bank 
This move will help customers raise the eligible amount by up to 20 per cent and increase the tenure by up to seven years. It will expand the credit amount and increase the tenure upto 67 years of age for an additional fee as well.
Question: By what percent U.S. economy grew in Apr-June 2015?
A. 2.3%
B. 3.7%
C. 4.6%
D. 4.1%
Answer: B. 3.7% 
On 27th Aug’15 the Commerce Department revised sharply upward its estimate of economic growth in the second quarter to a healthy annual pace of 3.7 percent, from an initial estimate of 2.3 percent.
Question: Name the sports personality to be appointed as the Goodwill Ambassador by UNICEF on 26th Aug’15?
A. M S Dhoni
B. A B De Villers
C. Novak Djokovic
D. Saina Nehwal
Answer: C. Novak Djokovic 
Since 2011, Djokovic had served as UNICEF’s Serbia Ambassador.
Question: Which country announced that it would fund a capacity building programme for making Kolkata a carbon city?
A. Denmark
B. Australia
C. United States
D. United Kingdom
Answer: D. United Kingdom 
To cleanse the environment with low carbon emission and help to decrease the effect of climate change, Kolkata mayor and UK Minister have join hands to take an initiative.
Question: Who launched the India Energy Security Scenarios (IESS) 2047 Version 2.0 and unveiled the IESS website along with the documents at a conference organized by FICCI in partnership with NITI Aayog?
A. Pranab Mukherjee
B. Narendra Modi
C. Arvind Panagariya
D. Bibek Debroy
Answer: C. Arvind Panagariya 
IESS would become a very useful tool for framing the National Energy Policy. IESS would enable decision makers to take a detailed view of India's emerging energy scenario, and help in effectively deciding the right mix of appropriate technology interventions and measures towards maximizing indigenous fuel supplies towards meeting the country's energy challenges.
Question: Name the Indian conferred with the 2015 Stockholm Water Prize on 26th Aug’15?
A. Rakesh Singh
B. Rajendra Singh
C. Jamal Siddiqi
D. M S Nair
Answer: B. Rajendra Singh 
Rajendra Singh is also known as Waterman of India. He has contributed several decades of his life to defeat drought and empowering communities of Rajasthan through his organisation Tarun Bharat Sangh (India Youth Association).
Question: Who clinched the title of Glocal Square 53rd National Challengers Chess C’ship on 27th Aug’15?
A. Swapnil Dhopade
B. K. Praneeth Surya
C. Neelotpal Das
D. M.R. Venkatesh
Answer: A. Swapnil Dhopade 
International Master Swapnil Dhopade from Indian Railways has clinched the title of the Glocal Square 53rd National Challengers Chess Championship which concluded in Nagpur. FIDE Master K. Praneeth Surya from Telangana secured the second position while Grand Master Murali Karthikeyan from Tamil Nadu had to be content with the third position.
Question: Who won the Guru Tegh Bahadur Hockey title on 27th Aug’15?
A. Army XI
B. Air India
C. Indian Railway
D. None of these
Answer: B. Air India 
Air India has regained the Guru Tegh Bahadur Hockey title after seven years. Air India defeated defending champions Army XI.
Question: Which athlete won the 200m race in the World Athletic Championships in Beijing on 27th Aug’15?
A. Usain Bolt
B. Justin Gatlin
C. Anaso Jobodwana
D. None of these
Answer: A. Usain Bolt 
Bolt clocked a world-leading 19.55 seconds to beat Gatlin by nearly two-tenths. The victory meant Bolt has now remarkably won 11 of the last 12 individual Olympic and world sprint titles dating back to Beijing 2008. His only blip came after a false start in the 100 metres at the 2011 worlds in Daegu.
Question: On 27th Aug’15, against which ex-Prime Minister of Pakistan, a Pakistani anti-corruption court issued non-bailable arrest warrants for alleged corrupt deals by approving subsidies to fake companies?
A. General Musharraf
B. Nawaj Sharif
C. Yusuf Raza Gilani
D. Benazir Bhutto
Answer: C. Yusuf Raza Gilani 
A Pakistani anti-corruption court in Karachi issued non-bailable arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani and former trade minister Makhdoom Amin Fahim for alleged corrupt deals by approving subsidies to fake companies. The court issued arrest orders after the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) presented a formal charge sheet of 12 cases registered against the duo and some senior officials of Trade Development Authority Pakistan (TDAP). Gilani was prime minister from 2008 to 2013 when he was sacked after the Supreme Court held him responsible for defying an order of the court to write a letter to the Swiss government to reopen a corruption probe against then President Asif Ali Zardari.
Question: Name the Indian scientist to receive first Sunhak Peace Prize in Seoul on 28th Aug’15?
A. Dr. Amiya Shanker
B. Dr. S Venkatraghvan
C. Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta
D. None of these
Answer: C. Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta 
Noted Indian agricultural scientist Dr Modadugu Vijay Gupta will receive the first Sunhak Peace Prize in South Korean Capital Seoul. He is a joint winner of the prize along with President of Kiribati Islands Anote Tong. Dr. Gupta was also recipient of the World Food Prize in 2005 for development and dissemination of low-cost techniques for freshwater fish farming. Sunhak Peace Prize was founded by South Korean religious leader Dr Hak Ja Han Moon to recognise eminent individuals who contributed to peace and development of the world. Billed next only to the Nobel Prize in terms of money being awarded to individuals, the Sunhak Peace Prize will be given annually from this year.
Question: Which statement is/are true about Bilateral Investment Treaty draft?
A. The Law Commission has suggested a host of changes in the model Bilateral Investment Treaty draft.
B. Changes will make it more investment friendly and include a confidentiality clause.
C. It will form the basis for renegotiation of the existing pacts and negotiating new ones with different countries.
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
The Law Commission has also suggested inclusion of the most favoured nation in the model treaty. It further recommended that the government procurement should not be excluded from the treaty protection. The Commission also said it is not necessary to exclude taxation from the purview of the treaty as "power to tax is an integral part of the State's police powers in international law. This power exists independent of a treaty, unless the tax itself is arbitrarily imposed to destroy the State's regulatory freedom".
Question: The centre announced the names of cities & towns to be developed as smart cities on 27th Aug’15. Which state gets the maximum number of aspirant smart cities?
A. Maharashtra
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Madhya Pradesh
Answer: C. Uttar Pradesh 
The aspirants’ cities were selected by the States and Union Territories on the parametres set by the Centre. Announcing the list in New Delhi, Union Urban Development Minister, M Venkaiah Naidu said, it include 13 cities from Uttar Pradesh, 12 from Tamil Nadu, 10 from Maharashtra, 7 from Madhya Pradesh, 3 each from Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. All other states have also got one or two cities for the purpose. Out of these 98 cities, 24 are capital cities, 24 are business and industrial centres, 18 are of cultural and tourism importance, 5 are port cities and three are educational and healthcare hubs. 9 capital cities including Patna, Shimla, Bengaluru, Daman, Kolkata did not find place for smart city development. Two more cities will be announced in due course since the Government of Jammu and Kashmir sought more time to firm up their choice and there was tie between Meerut and Raibarelly in Uttar Pradesh.
Question: On 26th Aug’15, one Pak terrorist was captured alive in Jammu & Kashmir. The captured terrorist belongs to which group?
A. Jaish-e- Mohammad
B. Laskar-e-Toiba
C. Al-Qaida
D. Indian Mujahideen
Answer: B. Laskar-e-Toiba 
In Jammu & Kashmir, four militants were killed and one Pakistani militant captured alive in a four day joint operation by Army and Special Operations Group through robust counter infiltration grid which helped in foiling the infiltration bid in north Kashmir’s Uri sector of Baramulla district. One 22 year old Lashkar e Toiba militant Sajjad of Baluchistan Pakistan was captured alive.
Question: Which statement is/are correct about GSAT-6 satellite launched on 27th Aug’15?
A. It is the communication satellite.
B. The satellite launched by the Polar Synchronous Lunar Vehicle PSLV-D6.
C. Launched from Chandipur, Odisha.
D. This version is capable of launching satellites weighing up to two tonnes into geostationary orbits.
Answer: A. It is the communication satellite. & D. This version is capable of launching satellites weighing up to two tonnes into geostationary orbits.
The Indian Space Research Organization ISRO on 27th Aug’15 successfully launched the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle GSLV-D6 and injected the communication satellite GSAT-6 into its intended transfer orbit. It injected the satellite carrying S-Band transponders meant for strategic purposes within 17 minutes and four seconds in the intended geosynchronous transfer orbit. The mission life of the satellite GSAT-6 weighing 2117 kg is nine years. This is the second continuous successful GSLV mission using India’s own cryogenic engine, out of the three development flights held so far using it.
Question: On 25th Aug’15 the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGI) released the data on Census 2011 on Population by Religious Communities. What is the percentage of Christian’s population in India?
A. 1.7%
B. 2.3%
C. 0.7%
D. 0.4%
Answer: B. 2.3% 
The proportionof population in India is Hindu -96.63 crores (79.8%), Muslim-17.22 crores (14.2%), Christian -2.78 crores (2.3%), Sikh-2.08 crores (1.7%), Buddhist-0.84 crores (0.7%), Jain-0.45 crores (0.4%), Other Religions & Persuasions-0.79 crores (0.7%), Religion Not Stated-0.29 crores (0.2%).
Question: Who was appointed as the Australia-India Education Ambassador during Australia-India Education Council (AIEC) annual meeting in New Delhi on 24th Aug’15?
A. Steve Waugh
B. Mark Waugh
C. Adam Gilchrist
D. None of these
Answer: C. Adam Gilchrist 
Question: Who has been appointed as the Director General of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)?
A. Girish Sahni
B. H C Verma
C. Ramesh Paul
D. None of these
Answer: A. Girish Sahni 
Dr. Girish Sahni, who had been the Director, CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH), Chandigarh, assumed charge as the next Director General of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and Secretary, Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science & Technology, with effect from the 24th August 2015.
Question: Which of the following Port was declared as best Major Port of 2014-15?
A. Nhava-Sheva Port
B. Kandhla Port
C. Kolkata Port
D. Mumbai Port
Answer: C. Kolkata Port 
Kolkata Port has been adjudged ‘ Major Port of the Year’ amongst 12 major ports in the country for the year 2014-15 in recognition of its impressive growth rate in volumes, optimizing capacity utilization, growth in output per berth and customer satisfaction . It has been declared in the Gateway Award 2015 programme held at Mumbai recently.
Question: Name the country that will host the ‘World Hindi Conference’ in Sep’15?
A. South Africa
B. Indonesia
C. Maldives
D. India
Answer: D. India 
The 10th World Hindi Conference (WHC) is being organized from 10-12 September 2015 in the city of Bhopal by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India in partnership with the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The decision to organize the 10th edition of the Conference in India was taken at the 9th World Hindi Conference held in Johannesburg, South Africa in September 2012.
Question: What measures have been adopted by the China, to support a stuttering economy and plunging stock market that sent shock waves around the globe?
A. Cut Interest Rates
B. Lowered the amount its reserve banks must hold
C. Disinvested the Govt. Shares
D. All of these
Answer: A. Cut Interest Rates & B. Lowered the amount its reserve banks must hold 
China's central bank has cut interest rates and lowered the amount its reserve banks must hold. People's Bank of China cut its key lending rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.6 per cent, an effort to calm stock markets. It is the fifth interest rate cut since November and will come into effect from 26th Aug’15. This move has boosted global share prices further, however, US stocks ended in descent after initials gains. London's FTSE 100 jumped 3 per cent, while Germany's Dax gained 5 per cent and the Paris Cac rose by 4.1 per cent.
Question: In which state women police station will be inaugurated on the eve of Rakshabandhan on 29th Aug’15?
A. Maharashtra
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Haryana
D. Punjab
Answer: C. Haryana 
A government spokesman said that the motive behind opening the police stations for women is to ensure their safety and instill among them a sense of security and confidence.
Question: According to Wealth-X report, who has been named as the wealthiest individual under the age of 35, with a personal fortune of 41.6 billion US Dollars?
A. Sergey Brin
B. Mark Zuckerberg
C. Larry Page
D. Rahul Bajaj
Answer: B. Mark Zuckerberg 
Zuckerberg is joined on the list by fellow Facebook co-founders Dustin Moskovitz, who claimed the second place on the list with an estimated net worth of USD 9.3 billion and Eduardo Saverin who was ranked fourth with an estimated net of USD 5.3 billion, as per Wealth-X, the global wealth intelligence and prospecting company.
Question: Which country announced that it will sponsor a resolution on Sri Lanka at United Nations Human Rights Council session at Geneva next month supporting Sri Lankan government’s bid to set up a credible domestic inquiry into allegations of human right violations?
A. India
B. China
C. Australia
D. United States
Answer: D. United States 
The US had sponsored a resolution at the UNHRC last September calling for a credible inquiry on war crime and other human right violation allegations against the security forces of Sri Lanka and the LTTE militants.
Question: Which of the following countries signed a peace deal with rebels after a threat of sanctions from the UN?
A. Syria
B. South Sudan
C. Sudan
D. Nigeria
Answer: B. South Sudan 
South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has signed a peace deal with rebels after a threat of sanctions from the UN. He told those gathered for the signing ceremony in the capital, Juba, that he had "reservations" about how the mediation was conducted and some of the clauses in the compromise deal. Rebel leader Riek Machar signed the deal last week but Mr Kiir refused. It is meant to end months of brutal civil war and would see Mr. Machar return as Vice-President.
Question: Which of the following courts dismissed 1984 Sikh riot case against Sonia Gandhi?
A. UN Court
B. Supreme Court
C. US Court
D. Delhi HighCourt
Answer: C. US Court
The three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled that it found the arguments presented by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) in its case against Gandhi "without merit". SFJ had filed a lawsuit in 2013 against Gandhi accusing her of allegedly shielding and protecting Congress party leaders in the anti-Sikh riots that had erupted following the assassination of former Prime Minister and her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi.
Question: On 26th Aug’15, C-DOT celebrated its foundation day. C-DOT is a ______.
A. Chemical Research & Development Centre
B. Defence Research & Cryo Centre
C. Cryo Development & Fertility Centre
D. Telecommunication Technology Development Centre
Answer: D. Telecommunication Technology Development Centre 
The Centre for Development of Telematics is an Indian Government owned telecommunications technology development centre. It was established in 1984 with initial mandate of designing and developing digital exchanges.
Question: Which of the following communication satellites will be launched on 27th Aug’15 from Sriharikota?
A. GSAT-6
B. GSLV-D6
C. INSAT-6
D. PSLV-B6
Answer: A. GSAT-6 
The launch of advanced communication satellite GSAT-6 using the GSLV-D6 rocket, powered by the indigenous cryogenic engine, began at 1152 hrs on 27th Sug’15 at the spaceport of Sriharikota.
Question: Name the athlete who challenged the recommendation of Sania Mirza for the prestigious Khel Ratna award before Karnataka High Court?
A. Saina Nehwal
B. H N Girisha
C. Jwala Gutta
D. Tintu Lukka
Answer: B. H N Girisha 
On 26th Aug’15 Karnataka High Court found substance in the claim of Para-athlete H N Girisha who challenged the recommendation of Sania Mirza for the prestigious Khel Ratna award. Justice A S Bopanna, who heard the case on a petition filed by Girisha issued notices to sports ministry and the tennis ace and directed the respondents to reply to the notices within 15 days. Girisha, a Paralympic Games medallist, said in his plea that he deserved to win the coveted award more than Sania because he was the top contender with 90 points against his name and the tennis star was far behind him as per performance-based points system.
Question: Name the woman journalist who won the prestigious 2015 Peter Mackler Award for Courageous and Ethical Journalism?
A. Zaina Erhaim
B. Anjana Kashyap
C. Christiane Amanpour
D. Barbara Walters
Answer: A. Zaina Erhaim 
Over the last two years, she has trained about 100 citizen reporters from inside Syria, approximately a third of them women, in print and TV journalism, and has helped establish many of the new emerging independent newspapers and magazines in the war torn country. Erhaim is also the Syria project coordinator for the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR), an international organization that support journalists in countries undergoing conflict, crisis, or transition.
Question: Who among the following would not be conferred by Dhyan Chand Award for the year 2015?
A. Shiv Prakash Mehra
B. T.P.P. Nair
C. Romeo James
D. Ajay Vishwakarma
Answer: D. Ajay Vishwakarma 
The awardees will receive their awards from the President Pranab Mukherjee at a function at Rashtrapati Bhawan on 29th Aug’15. Dhyan Chand Award 2015 will be given to Mr Romeo James for Hockey, Mr Shiv Prakash Mishra for Tennis and Mr T.P.P Nair for Volleyball.
Question: Who among the following would not be conferred by Dronacharya Award for the year 2015?
A. Anoop Singh
B. Harbans Singh
C. Swatantar Raj Singh
D. Romeo James
Answer: D. Romeo James 
Dhyan Chand Award 2015 will be given to Mr Romeo James for Hockey. Dronacharya Awards will be conferred on Athletics Para-sports coach Naval Singh and Wrestling coach Anoop Singh. An official release issued by the Sports Ministry said, Coach Harbans Singh will be given Dronacharya Awards for his life time contribution to Athletics, Coach Swatantar Raj Singh for Boxing and Coach Nihar Ameen will be conferred Dronacharya Awards for his life time contribution in Swimming.
Question: Who has been sworn in as the new Lokayukta of Maharashtra on 24th Aug’15?
A. Justice Vinod Tawde
B. Justice Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani
C. Justice Ravindra Singh
D. Justice P B Gaikwad
Answer: B. Justice Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani 
Justice Madanlal Laxmandas Tahaliyani, a retired judge of the Bombay High Court was sworn in as the new Lokayukta of Maharashtra. Governor Vidyasagar Rao administered the oath of office to Justice Tahaliyani at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. . Justice Tahaliyani succeeds Justice PB Gaikwad, whose term as Lokayukta ended on July 1, 2014.
Question: Which of the following countries released its last known Ebola patient from a hospital on 24th Aug’15?
A. Sierra Leone
B. Guinea
C. Liberia
D. Senegal
Answer: A. Sierra Leone 
It allows the nation to begin a 42-day countdown to being declared free of the virus that has killed nearly 4,000 people here. President Ernest Bai Koroma presented a certificate of discharge to Adama Sankoh, 40, who contracted Ebola after her son died from the disease late last month.
Question: As per the report by Alzheimer Disease International, by which year number of people suffering from dementia in the world would triple to more than a hundred and thirty million?
A. 2022
B. 2050
C. 2056
D. 2060
Answer: B. 2050 
Alzheimer Disease International says dementia will saw as people live longer posing serious challenges to health and social care systems. Ten million news cases are expected this year alone.
Question: Which of the following countries has condemned deportations of its citizens after Venezuela closed its border with its eastern neighbour last week?
A. Colombia
B. Brazil
C. Guyana
D. Panama
Answer: A. Colombia 
The crossings were shut after an attack by smugglers left three soldiers and a civilian injured. Since then around 1,000 Colombians living in Venezuela have been expelled as part of a crackdown on smugglers and criminal gangs in the region. The two countries are due to hold talks on the issue on 26th Aug’15.
Question: Which country would be compensated by Russia for seizing a ship belonging to the pressure group, Greenpeace, during a protest against Arctic oil drilling, as ordered by an International court of arbitration in The Hague?
A. Ukraine
B. Latvia
C. Germany
D. Netherland
Answer: D. Netherland
Russian commandoes seized the Dutch-flagged ship in September 2013 and detained the 30 Greenpeace activists and journalists onboard after a protest at an offshore oil rig owned by Russian state oil giant Gazprom.
Question: Name the typhoon that hit the Japan's southern main island of Kyushu on 25th Apr’15?
A. Soudelor
B. Halola
C. Pirana
D. Goni
Answer: D. Goni 
People in Japan's southern main island of Kyushu are facing strong winds and heavy rains as Typhoon Goni rips through the region. The storm is causing gusts of nearly 200 kilometers per hour.
Question: Centre has informed Supreme Court that political parties should not be brought under the ambit of Right to Information, RTI Act by terming them __________.
A. Public Authorities
B. Private Authorities
C. Independent Authorities
D. Democratic Authorities
Answer: A. Public Authorities 
In an affidavit, Department of Personnel and Training said that bringing political parties under the RTI will not only hamper their smooth working but help political rivals to file pleas with malicious intention to seek information. The government said, when the RTI Act was enacted, it was never visualised that political parties would be brought within the ambit of the transparency law. The affidavit said, there are provisions in Representation of the People Act 1951 and Income Tax Act which brought necessary transparency about the financial aspects of a political party.
Question: Name the telemedicine initiative launched by the government on 25th Aug’15 in collaboration with Apollo Hospitals to provide healthcare facilities in rural areas?
A. Swasthya
B. Swasth
C. Sehat
D. Poshan
Answer: C. Sehat 
Under the initiative people will be able to consult doctors through video link and also order generic drugs. The initiative was launched by Communication and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. With this initiative the tele-consultation services are being extended to 60,000 centres across the country.
Question: Which is /are the following reasons for the BSE Sensex to fall by 1624.51 pints and close at 25,741.56 on 24th Aug’15?
A. Economic Crisis in Greece
B. Slowing Chinese economy
C. Devaluation of Chinese currency
D. Bailout of Greece Economy
Answer: B. Slowing Chinese economy & C. Devaluation of Chinese currency 
Global bourses crashed on 24th Aug’15 following weeks of reports regarding China’s low economic growth as its consumption story further faltered. This fall was the biggest since 21 January 2008 when the Sensex crashed by 2,062.2 points.
Question: Name the state that has announced the world’s largest solar power station of 750 Mega Watts (MW) capacity to be established in one of its state’s district?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Gujarat
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Bihar
Answer: C. Madhya Pradesh 
On 23rd Aug’15 it was announced by the MP’s Energy Minister that state would host the world’s largest 750 Mega Watts (MW) solar power station. The project, named Rewa Ultra Mega Solar, will be a joint venture of Solar Energy Corporation of India and MP Urja Vikas Nigam, wherein both parties have 50% stake. At present the world’s largest solar power project located at Mojave Deserts in California, United States named as Ivanpah Solar Power Facility of 392 MW.
Question: Which of the following bowlers was fined for 65 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct twice on 23rd Aug’15?
A. Bhomesh Kumar
B. Mitchell Johnson
C. Ishant Sharma
D. None of these
Answer: C. Ishant Sharma 
Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma was fined 65 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct twice during the fourth day in the second cricket Test against Sri Lanka at P Sara Oval in Colombo. Ishant was charged with breaching the ICC Code of Conduct which relates to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his dismissal during an International Match on both the occasions.
Question: Which country has won the Ashes Test Series that ended on 23rd Aug’15?
A. India
B. Australia
C. England
D. None of these
Answer: C. England 
In the Ashes, Australia defeated hosts England by an innings and 46 runs to win the final Test of the 5-match series at the Oval. England had already clinched the series with victories in three of the first four games.
Question : What amount has been fixed by the government as a target of loan disbursement under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) to small business units during the current fiscal?
A. 1.22 Lakh Crore
B. 3.65 Thousand Crore
C. 500 Crore
D. 980 Crore
Answer: A. 1.22 Lakh Crore 
A Finance Ministry statement said that the banking sector has been allocated an overall disbursement target of Rs 1,22,188 crore during 2015-16 for MUDRA loans and the banks have already disbursed Rs 15,566 crore as on August 17 to more than 20 lakh borrowers under PMMY. The statement said, while lending, priority will be given to SCs/STs enterprises. The PMMY provide loans between Rs 50,000-Rs 10 lakh to small entrepreneurs. The Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Ltd , MUDRA, launched by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April this year, focuses on the over 5 crore self-employed who use funds of Rs 11 lakh crore and provide jobs to 12 crore people.
Question: Which of the following companies has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Andhra Pradesh government to launch the 'Smart Village' programme in Vijayawada?
A. ICICI Bank
B. Tata Trust
C. L&T Infra.
D. Adani Builders
Answer: B. Tata Trust 
On 24th Aug’15 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu released the micro planning development project details prepared by Tata Trust aimed at developing 264 villages in the Vijayawada Lok Sabha Constituency which it has adopted under Corporate Social Responsibility.
Question: In which of the following cities the war museum has been established to mark the Golden Jubilee celebration year of 1965 war between India and Pakistan?
A. Ladakh
B. Srinagar
C. Jaipur
D. Jodhpur
Answer: D. Jodhpur 
In Rajasthan, Indian Army has established ‘Jaisalmer War Museum’ at Military Station of Jaisalmer to showcase the traditional bravery of the Indian Army and also to commemorate the sacrifice of its heroes displaying valour and courage of exceptional order during India’s wars.
Question: On 24th Aug’15 which Community protested in Rajasthan by taking out silent procession at many places against recent Rajasthan High Court order on ‘Santhara’ ritual?
A. Jain
B. Marwari
C. Gujjar
D. Meena
Answer: A. Jain 
Santhara, also known as sallekhana, is a Jain ritual of giving up food and water until one's last breath to attain moksha. The Rajasthan High Court, has labelled the practice as suicide while hearing a public interest litigation early this month.
Question: The ‘Legion d'honneur’ award is the highest award of which of the following countries?
A. Brazil
B. Spain
C. Greece
D. France
Answer: D. France 
In France, 3 Americans and a Briton who foiled a suspected terror attack on a train have received France's top honour from President Francois Hollande. Mr Hollande presented Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlatos, Anthony Sadler and Briton Chris Norman with the Legion d'honneur at the Elysee Palace on 24th Aug’15.
Question: Which country’s Prime Minister became the first PM to visit the resting place of Indigenous land rights campaigner Eddie Koiki Mabo?
A. USA
B. Australia
C. India
D. Japan
Answer: B. Australia 
Tony Abbott has become the first Australian Prime Minister to visit the resting place of Indigenous land rights campaigner Eddie Koiki Mabo. The Prime Minister is in the Torres Strait as part of an election promise to spend one week each year in a remote Australian Indigenous community. During his stay, Mr Abbott said he would be focussing on education, health and border security in the Strait. He laid a wreath on Mr Mabo's grave on Mer Island. Mr Mabo died in 1992 just months before his 10-year legal battle for native title rights proved successful.
Question: With which country has India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of cross-border petroleum pipeline at the Ministry for Commerce and Supplies on 24th Aug’15?
A. Myanmar
B. Bangladesh
C. China
D. Nepal
Answer: D. Nepal
The proposed 41-km Amlekhgunj-Raxaul pipeline is expected to ease transportation of fuel and eliminate the country’s dependence on oil tankers. Under the first phase of the project, a pipeline will be laid from Raxaul to Amlekhgunj, and under the second phase, it will be extended to Kathmandu. Re-engineering of the Amlekhgunj depot and allied facilities are among the packages of the project. Following the agreement, two separate agreements, business-to-business and modus operandi (operation modality), will also be signed between sole supplier Indian Oil Corporation (IOC)and Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC).
Question: Who has asked both India and Italy to "suspend" all court proceedings involving two Italian marines charged with killing of two Indian fishermen in 2012 and also refrain from initiating new ones that might "aggravate or extend" the dispute?
A. United States
B. UN Court
C. G-20 Countries
D. G5 countries
Answer: B. UN Court 
The 21-member UN-mandated court located in the German city Hamburg issued the order with 15 in favour and six against. Unhappy over India's handling of the marine's issue, Italy took the matter to the ITLOS challenging Indian jurisdiction in the case. It has pleaded that India must cease to exercise any form of jurisdiction over the Enrica Lexie Incident and the Italian Marines, including any measure of restraint with respect to Sergeant Latorre and Sergeant Girone. The two marines, who were on board ship 'Enrica Lexie', are accused of killing two Indian fishermen on February 15, 2012 off the Kerala coast.
Question: Name the President of Seychelles who will arrive in New Delhi on 25th Aug’15 on a three-day visit to India?
A. James Alix Michel
B. Alexis Tsipras
C. Joel Morgan
D. Jean Paul Adam
Answer: A. James Alix Michel 
Mr. Michel's visit comes five months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Seychelles during which a number of agreements were signed to boost cooperation in a range of areas. It was first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 34 years. Mr. Michel had earlier paid state visits to India in 2005 and 2010, apart from participating in the Delhi Sustainable Development Summits in 2011 and 2012.
Question: The National Green Tribunal has asked Delhi Government to stop unauthorized sand mining on the ________ riverbed.
A. Yamuna
B. Ganga
C. Indus
D. Kosi
Answer: A. Yamuna 
The tribunal came down heavily on the Delhi government for permitting sand mining in the name of dredging and directed the concerned authorities to stop illegal mining on the Yamuna river bed and its surrounding areas.
Question: Name the committee that recommended that granting relief to FIIs on Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) will be a positive thing for the market?
A. C Rangarjan Committee
B. Bimal Jalan Committee
C. AP Shah Committee
D. K N Desai Committee
Answer: C. AP Shah Committee 
The AP Shah committee on minimum alternate tax (MAT) has recommended to the finance ministry that the levy shouldn't be imposed for the period preceding April 1, 2015. The panel, headed by Law Commission Chairman A P Shah, was set up to resolve the dispute between FIIs and the government after notices were served to 68 FIIs by the Income Tax Department demanding Rs 602 crore as MAT dues.
Question: For which of the following Income Tax Department has to open special return counters?
A. Defence Personnel
B. Salaried Tax Payers
C. Pensioners
D. Differently-abled Persons
Answer: B. Salaried Tax Payers, C. Pensioners. & D. Differently-abled Persons 
Salaried tax payers and pensioners with annual income upto five lakh rupees and with no refund claim can file their returns at these counters upto 31st Aug’15. However, the income limit of 5 lakh rupees and no claim refund provision will not apply to tax payers over the age of 80 years deriving salary or pension income. There will be special facilitation counters for senior citizens and differently-abled persons. An official release said similar facilitation counters are being set up in other metro cities based on the local requirements.
Question: Name the micro finance company that becomes the first to start operation as a commercial bank?
A. PayTm Bank
B. Vodafone m-Pesa Bank
C. Yes Bank
D. Bandhan Bank
Answer: D. Bandhan Bank 
Bandhan is the first micro-finance company to transform into a bank. Reserve Bank of India has turned liberal in doling out banking licenses to entities of different capabilities. It has just issued 11 in-principle licenses to set up payments banks. Bandhan Bank will primarily cater to the unorganized sector like daily wage earners and women running small businesses -- the segments that had been its borrowers for a decade. As a bank, it will also offer savings, remittance and insurance services and try to raise its stake in the bottom of the pyramid customers.
Question: ‘Chengalikodan Banana’ has been accorded Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Central GI Registry. This banana is uniquely grown in which state?
A. Andhra Pradesh
B. Karnataka
C. Kerala
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: C. Kerala 
Geographical Indication is an insignia on products having a unique geographical origin and evolution over centuries. Darjeeling tea was the first agricultural product in India to be accorded with GI tag. At present there are 200 products registered as GI.
Question: Who has received the 'Asian of the Year 2014' award by leading Singapore daily The Straits Times, on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
A. Smriti Irani
B. S Jayashanker
C. Sushma Swaraj
D. Vijay Singh Thakur
Answer: D. Vijay Singh Thakur 
Vijay Singh Thakur is India’s high Commissioner to Singapore. Mr Modi was given the award in December 2014 for putting focus on India's development and getting the world "excited" about the prospects of the country again.
Question: In which of the following country women will be able to vote and run in elections held in December 2015, marking a step forward for proponents of women's rights in a country that has received heavy criticism for its treatment of women?
A. Saudi Arabia
B. Turkey
C. Pakistan
D. Tajikistan
Answer: A. Saudi Arabia 
According to a Saudi government website Official voter registration began on 22nd Aug’15, and candidate registration begins on August 30. Both days will mark firsts for women in Saudi Arabia gearing up to participate in elections in December. Women will only participate in elections at the municipal level.
Question: In how many years Global Oil Prices sank to a low of $40 per barrel on 22nd Aug’15?
A. 4 years
B. 5 years
C. 6 years
D. 8 years
Answer: C. 6 years 
The price of oil in the U.S. slipped below $40 a barrel for the first time since 2009 amid a growing consensus that cheap crude is here to stay.
Question: Name the team that won the Pro-Kabaddi League (PKL) title for 2015 on 23rd Aug’15?
A. Jaipur Pink Panthers (Jaipur)
B. Bengaluru Bulls (Bengaluru)
C. U Mumba (Mumbai)
D. None of these
Answer: C. U Mumba (Mumbai) 
U Mumba won the STAR Sports ProKabaddi League’s second season as they defeated Bengaluru Bulls team in the final match.
Question: Name the athlete who won the world 100 metre title in World Athletic Championship in Beijing on 23rd Aug’15?
A. Justin Gatlin
B. Usain Bolt
C. Andre De Grasse
D. Trayvon Bromell
Answer: B. Usain Bolt 
This was his ninth world championship title, more than any athlete in history. He completed the race in 9.79 seconds.
Question: Which of the following has commissioned the first ever Hydro-power plant in the city?
A. Dehradun Sinchai Vibhag
B. Delhi Jal Board
C. Garhwal Jal Board
D. Mandi Jal Board
Answer: B. Delhi Jal Board 
The power plant has been set up at Chilla, which will be run through the Hydraulic Turbine propelled by treated effluents coming out of a Sewerage Treatment Plant. An official release said, the treated effluents fall through the height of 4.8m which, due to created pressure and velocity, leads to the rotation of the turbine thereby generating power. It is a Pilot Project which has been set up free of cost and will produce 20,000 KWH of electricity per year. It said, no fossil fuel is being used in the generation of the power, therefore this technology is termed as pollution free technology.
Question: Which state is becoming the first state in the country to launch ‘agro-solar policy’ to encourage the farmers to tap the solar energy?
A. Maharashtra
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Gujarat
D. Odisha
Answer: C. Gujarat
According to Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute -GERMI, the farmers and power generation companies will be in a win-win situation with generation of solar energy in agricultural fields. Farmers can use the solar energy for their own purpose and sell the surplus energy to the state run power generation companies. Director of GERMI Mr. T. Harinarayana has said that power generation companies will set up solar photo voltaic SPV -plants in different farms fields for this purpose. These SPV plants were already tested in different agricultural universities in the State. The solar photo-voltaic plant will be set up on poles so that farmers can also grow their crops. Farmers are likely to get 30 to 40 per cent share from the profit of power generation companies.
Question: After how many years (approx.) British Embassy in Iran has reopened in the year 2015?
A. Five
B. Seven
C. Three
D. Four
Answer: D. Four
The UK embassy was closed in 2011 after it was stormed by protesters during a demonstration against sanctions. Mr Hammond is the first UK Foreign Secretary to visit Iran since 2003. The visit comes weeks after Iran reached a deal with six world powers aimed at curbing its nuclear programme.
Question: Which country has announced that it will return more than 4,000 archaeological artefacts to Ecuador and Peru?
A. Brazil
B. Argentina
C. Venezuela
D. Paraguay
Answer: B. Argentina 
President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner said the pieces had been stolen and should be returned to their rightful owners. Ms Fernandez urged other countries to follow the example. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Buenos Aires, in the presence of the Ecuadorean and Peruvian ambassadors.
Question: For which community, Gujarat Chief Minister ruled out reservation in the state?
A. Patel
B. Modi
C. Vaghela
D. Shastri
Answer: A. Patel 
This was indicated by the state Government in a full page advertisement published in the leading news papers of the state. Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel has also issued similar audio visual message on the electronic media ahead of rally called by Patidar community on next Tuesday to press their demand for reservation. In a bullet point advertisement, Government says that the 1992 Supreme Court verdict limits reservation provision only up to 50 per cent in any state. According to advertisement, Gujarat has 27 per cent reservation for OBCs and 15 per cent and 7 per cent for STs and SCs respectively.
Question: Who is the head of the committee that recommended conversion of Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) with business size of 20,000 crore rupees or more into regular banks?
A. Bibek Debroy
B. Raghuram Rajan
C. R Gandhi
D. U K Sinha
Answer: C. R Gandhi 
A report of the High Powered Committee on UCBs headed by RBI Deputy Governor R Gandhi however clarified that the conversion will not be compulsory for large UCBs and they can continue the way they operate currently in terms of balance sheet or asset size. In order to minimise the systemic risk, the committee has recommended that large UCBs convert themselves into commercial banks. The panel further said smaller UCBs with business size of less than 20,000 crore rupees willing to convert to Small Finance Banks can apply to the Reserve Bank for conversion. It has also suggested that licenses may be issued to financially sound and well-managed cooperative credit societies having a minimum track record of 5-years to operate as UCBs. RBI has invited suggestions and comments from public on this report by 18th of next month.
Question: Which of the following Bollywood movies has been banned by the Pakistan’s Lahore High Court on 20 August 2015?
A. Phantom
B. Drishyam
C. Bajrangi Bhaijaan
D. Baahubali
Answer: A. Phantom 
The order to ban the release of the Saif Ali Khan-starrer film in the theaters in Pakistan was issued by Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan of the Lahore High Court. The petitioner in his plea argued that the film set on post-26/11 attacks contains filthy propaganda against him and his outfit.
Question: Which state government has inaugurated a 12 MW solar power project at the international airport of its state?
A. Bihar
B. Kerala
C. Odisha
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: B. Kerala 
With this, Cochin airport became the first airport in India to run on solar power. The project is reportedly the single largest solar project which has been constructed in an airport in India.
Question: Which country has become the first to receive funds from the United Nations (UN) for its fast growing solar home systems?
A. India
B. Myanmar
C. Bangladesh
D. China 
Answer: C. Bangladesh 
The UN Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC) issued 395286 carbon credits worth 3.56 million US Dollar to two Bangladeshi organisations.
Question: Name the web portal launched by the Union Government for the benefit of students seeking Educational Loans?
A. Vidya Dhan
B. Vidya Lakshmi
C. Sakshrta Dhan
D. Sakshrta Ryn
Answer: B. Vidya Lakshmi 
The portal is a first of its kind provides single window for students to access information and make application for educational loans provided by banks as well as for government scholarships.
Question: Name the author of the book titled ‘Making India Awesome’?
A. Natwar Singh
B. Navjot Siddhu
C. Chetan Bhagat
D. V K Khare
Answer: C. Chetan Bhagat 
This is the second non-fiction book written by the country’s biggest-selling writer Chetan Bhagat. His first non-fiction book was What Young India Wants which was well received by the readers.
Question: Who is the author of the book titled “Mrs Funnybones: She’s Just Like You and a Lot Like Me”?
A. Karan Johar
B. Jhumpa Lahiri
C. Chetan Bhagat
D. Twinkle Khanna
Answer: D. Twinkle Khanna 
Mrs. Funnybones is about how a modern woman looks at India and how India looks back at her.
Question: Recently which country became the fourth country to have a hotline (direct secure line of communication) with the US President?
A. India
B. China
C. Russia
D. Iran
Answer: A. India 
India is the fourth country to have a hotline after Russia, Great Britain and China.
Question: On 19th Aug’15, which important country has been delisted from the list of countries & put under the restricted visa category or the prior referral category (PRC) of countries by India?
A. Fiji
B. Mongolia
C. Iran
D. Israel
Answer: C. Iran 
With this India has also indicated that it wants to reach out to Iran. The order means that Iranians can easily apply for visas at Indian consulate in Iran. The decision also comes in backdrop of the P5 + 1 countries ie; U.K, China, France, Russia, U.S. and Germany nations clinching a nuclear agreement with Iran during July 2015.
Question: From which of the following organisations the government will sell 10 per cent stake?
A. HAL
B. IOC
C. GAIL
D. CEL
Answer: B. IOC 
It can fetch about 9,500 crore rupees to the exchequer. The floor price for the share will be announced on 22nd Aug’15 and the Offer for Sale will take place on 24th Aug’15. Presently, the government holds 68.57 per cent shares in IOC, the biggest oil refining and marketing company in the country. The stake sale in IOC will be the fourth disinvestment this fiscal. The earlier 3 stake sales had raised over 3,000 crore rupees. The government is targeting to raise 69,500 crore rupees from disinvestment in the current fiscal.
Question: Against which state’s Chief Minister, the Guwahati High court has ordered a CBI investigation for allegedly violating official norms to allot construction works to his family members during his tenure as PWD minister of the state?
A. Assam
B. Meghalaya
C. Mizoram
D. Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: D. Arunachal Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Nabam Tuki violated norms to allot construction works to his family members during his tenure as PWD minister of the state. On 21st Aug’15 acting Chief Justice of Gauhati High court K Sreedhar Rao and Justice P K Saikia passed this order.
Question: Which of the following High Court stays compulsory voting in Civic body polls in Gujarat?
A. Supreme Court
B. Gujarat High Court
C. Delhi High Court
D. None of these
Answer: B. Gujarat High Court 
A bench headed by acting Chief Justice Jayant Patel admitted the case and stayed operation of notification of compulsory voting till final disposal of the case. Gujarat became the first state to make voting compulsory in local-municipal as well as panchayat polls after governor OP Kohli approved the Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2009, which had been rejected by earlier governor, Kamla Beniwal.
Question: Name the Prime Minister of Greece who announced his resignation and called for snap elections, as he went on the offensive to defend the country's massive bailout after it triggered a rebellion within his own party?
A. Alexis Tsipras
B. Yanis Varoufakis
C. Karolos Papoulias
D. None of these
Answer: A. Alexis Tsipras 
Mr Tsipras, who was only elected in January this year, said that he is stepping down and calling early elections after suffering a rebellion within his left-wing Syriza party over the country' new bailout programme. He said that Greece got the best deal possible for its three-year, a 86 billion euro bailout package. Mr Tsipras said that he will shortly meet with the President of the Republic and present his resignation and that of his Government.
Question: Which nations Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to extend support to India for a permanent membership of the UN Security Council?
A. G5 Nations
B. SAARC Nations
C. Pacific Island Nations
D. Middle-East Nations
Answer: C. Pacific Island Nations 
In his opening remarks in the 2nd India -Pacific Islands Cooperation, FIPIC Summit in Jaipur on 21st Aug’15, the Prime Minister said that the member countries must together press for reform in the UN Security Council to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in the 21st century. The island nations participated in the FIPIC summit included Fiji, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Micronesia, Solomon Islands and Tonga.
Question: Name the writer awarded the prestigious ‘Maharashtra Bhushan’ award on 20th Aug’15 by the Maharashtra Government?
A. Balasaheb Nemade
B. Dudh Nath Singh
C. Babasaheb Purandre
D. Ram Naik
Answer: C. Babasaheb Purandre 
Babasaheb Purandare is a well-known writer and theatre personality from Maharashtra, known for his ballads and writing on Maratha warrior Shivaji.
Question: Name the person who became the first-ever Indian to be chosen as one of the members of the prestigious Council of the IAAF, the global governing body of athletics on 19 July 2015?
A. Amrinder Gill
B. Lala Amarnath
C. Adille Sumariwalla
D. Aditya Das
Answer: C. Adille Sumariwalla 
He is an Olympian 100m runner and President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), was elected as one of the nine individual members of the all-powerful IAAF Council at the IAAF’s 50th Congress held at Beijing.
Question: Name the Bollywood actor who has been named as an advocate for United Nations’ campaign on gender equality?
A. Amitabh Bachchan
B. Salman Khan
C. Arshad Warsi
D. Anupam Kher
Answer: D. Anupam Kher 
Anupam Kher has been appointed as the UN ambassador of the 'HeForShe' campaign for gender equality. The 'HeForShe' campaign has been initiated by UN Women. Its goal is to engage men as agents of change for the achievement of gender equality and women's rights, by encouraging them to take action against inequalities faced by women and girls.
Question: With effect from which day, the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways issued a notification to introduce the Bharat Stage IV' compliant four wheeler vehicles throughout the country?
A. 31st Dec’15
B. 1st Jan’16
C. 1st Apr’17
D. 31st Mar’16
Answer: C. 1st Apr’17 
The sale and registration of vehicles not meeting the new emission norms won't be allowed in the country from April 2017 and only Bharat Stage compliant four-wheeler vehicles will be manufactured. BS-IV norm was first introduced in the country in April 2010.
Question: Who has been appointed as the President of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) on 19th Aug’15?
A. Lamine Diack
B. David Russel
C. Sebastian Coe
D. None of these
Answer: C. Sebastian Coe 
The world government body of athletics, the International Association of Athletics Federations - the IAAF, has chosen the British former Olympic champion Sebastian Coe as its new president. His election comes at a time, when the organisation is facing allegations of widespread doping in the sport. He succeeds Senegalese Lamine Diack, 82, who has led the IAAF for 16 years.
Question: On 20th Aug’15 which of the following badminton players regained the first rank in the world badminton rankings?
A. Carolina Martin
B. Saina Nehwal
C. Ashwini Poppanna
D. Jwala Gutta
Answer: B. Saina Nehwal 
Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal regained the number one spot in world badminton rankings by toppling Spaniard Carolina Martin to whom she had lost in the summit clash of the just-concluded World Championships. Olympic bronze medallist Saina, who was beaten by Carolina at Jakarta on 16th Aug’15, dethroned the Spaniard in the latest Badminton World Federation ranking released on 20th Aug’15.
Question: To marked the anniversary of which leader ‘Sadbhavna Diwas’ observed by the Meghalaya along with the rest of the country?
A. Lala Lajpat Rai
B. Subhash Chandra Bose
C. Rajeev Gandhi
D. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Answer: C. Rajeev Gandhi 
The birth anniversary of Rajeev Gandhi was observed on 20th Aug’15.
Question: In which state an efficient smart street lighting project ‘RISHTA’ was launched on 20th Aug’15?
A. Himachal Pradesh
B. Jharkhand
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Karnataka
Answer: A. Himachal Pradesh 
It makes Himachal Pradesh the first state in North India to do so. Known as LED based Energy, Efficient and CCMS (Centralized Control and Monitoring System) Smart Street Lighting Scheme for Urban Local bodies and named as Rajiv Gandhi Illuminating Scheme for Hill Town Advancement (RISHTA). The Urban Development Department has taken this innovative in collaboration with EESL (Energy Efficient Services Limited), a joint venture company formed by 4 power sectors-National Thermal Power Corporation, Power Grid Corporation of India, Power Finance Corporation Ltd. and Rural Electrification Corporation. Under the scheme, the EESL will invest all the capital upfront.
Question: Name the port where a Greek government chartered ferry has arrived near Athens, after picking up almost 2,500 migrants from islands near the Turkish coast?
A. Piraeus
B. Cape Matapan
C. Palermo
D. Cyclades
Answer: A. Piraeus 
The migrants, most of them Syrian refugees, boarded the Eleftherios Venizelos car ferry in Kos, Kalymnos, Leros and Lesvos in the past few days. The influx of migrants in Greece has increased dramatically in the past month to around 50,000. Greece has become the main transit point for migrants into the European Union in the past few months, with UN officials estimating that almost 160,000 have arrived on its shores since January.
Question: Which country’s scientists have found a way to take carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and make carbon nanofibres, a valuable manufacturing material?
A. India
B. United States
C. Japan
D. Singapore
Answer: B. United States 
Scientists in the U.S. have found a way to take carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and make carbon nanofibres, a valuable manufacturing material. Their solar-powered system runs just a few volts of electricity through a vat full of a hot, molten salt; CO2 is absorbed and the nanofibres gradually assemble at one of the electrodes. It currently produces 10g in an hour. The team suggests it could be scaled up and makes an impact on CO2 emissions, but other researchers are unsure. Nonetheless, it could offer a cheaper way of making carbon nanofibres than existing methods.
Question: Who has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of national carrier Air India for three years?
A. Rajeev Lohati
B. Ashwani Lohani
C. R K Singh
D. Rohit Nandan
Answer: B. Ashwani Lohani
On 20th Aug’15 Ashwani Lohani was appointed as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of national carrier Air India for three years. He will be replacing Rohit Nandan, whose extended tenure ends on 21st August. The Appointments Committee of Cabinet has approved appointment of Lohani, a 1980 batch Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME) officer, as CMD, Air India Ltd. He is presently working as Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation in Bhopal.
Question: Name the country that will host ‘Call To Action Summit’ on 27th Aug’15, aimed at ending preventable child and maternal deaths?
A. Indonesia
B. China
C. Australia
D. India
Answer: D. India 
The programme--Call To Action Summit-- will be attended by Health Ministers from 24 countries, state health ministers from India and International academic experts. It will provide a platform to deliberate upon the importance of systems, innovations, convergence and evidence in ending preventable maternal and child deaths.
Question: On 20th Aug’15 with which country, the agreement for exchange of information with respect to taxes has been approved by the Cabinet?
A. Switzerland
B. Seychelles
C. Sweden
D. UAE
Answer: B. Seychelles 
The cabinet has approved the signing and ratification agreement between India and Seychelles for exchange of information with respect to taxes. The Agreement will stimulate the flow of exchange of information between India and Seychelles for tax purposes, which will help curb tax evasion and tax avoidance. The Union Cabinet also gave its approval for the signing of the revised Air Services Agreement (ASA) between India and Seychelles to modernize and update the existing ASA signed in 1978.
Question: With which of the following organisations, the Union Transport Ministry is in collaboration to work on developing cost-effective battery technologies to make electric buses economically viable?
A. ISRO
B. DRDO
C. CDAC
D. BHEL
Answer: A. ISRO 
This initiative will also help in cutting down on the carbon emissions especially in the urban areas. A meeting was held on 20th Aug’15 in this regard between the officials from the Road and Highways Ministry, the Science and Technology Ministry and ISRO. The road ministry will within a week submit all its documents with regard to battery-specification requirement to ISRO. ISRO will develop a time-bound programme for the development of these commercial batteries.
Question: How many payment banks received in-principle approval by the Reserve bank of India?
A. 3
B. 4
C. 6
D. 11
Answer: D. 11 
A payment bank is different from conventional banks as it cannot lend to its customers. It is allowed to take deposits, allow remittances and provide simple financial products. The central bank has approved applications of National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), Reliance Industries , Aditya Birla Nuvo , Airtel M Commerce, Department of Posts , Fino PayTech, Tech Mahindra, Vodafone m-pesa, Cholamandalam Distribution Services, PayTM, and Sun Pharma.
Question: Name the frontline warship of the Indian Navy that made a port call at the port of Haifa, Israel on 19th Aug’15?
A. INS Saumitra
B. INS Pinaka
C. INS Taringini
D. INS Trikand
Answer: D. INS Trikand 
INS Trikand, commanded by Captain Vinay Kalia, is the latest warship of the Indian Navy equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors enabling to address threats in all the three dimensions – air, surface and sub-surface. The visiting ship is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet and is under the operational command of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, with its Headquarters at Mumbai.
Question: The Birth Anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi is being observed on ______.
A. 19th September
B. 20th August
C. 21st August
D. 22nd September
Answer: B. 20th August 
Question: Who is appointed as the head of the three member team constituted to assess situation in Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune by Union Government?
A. S M Khan
B. Gajendra Chauhan
C. Nagesh Naik
D. Abdur Khan
Answer: A. S M Khan 
The three-member team will be headed by the Registrar of Newspapers in India (RNI) SM Khan and comprise two more I&B Ministry officials.
Question: Which state has announced that Sanskrit language will be introduced as a mandatory subject in all Government schools of the state?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Uttarakhand
C. Himachal Pradesh
D. Uttar Pradesh
Answer: C. Himachal Pradesh 
It was announced by the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.
Question: Name the woman who became India's first woman to play in English league football?
A. Sumitra Agarwal
B. Jayanti Pandyan
C. Aditi Chauhan
D. None of these
Answer: C. Aditi Chauhan 
She is India’s international football goalkeeper and made her debut for the women’s team of the West Ham United in the opening game of the season against Coventry City.
Question: Name the officer who has been assigned the additional charge of Director of Enforcement Directorate (ED) by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on 19th Aug’15?
A. Sanjeev Chaturvedi
B. Karnal Singh
C. Manjunath Sharma
D. Shomesh Bhandari
Answer: B. Karnal Singh 
He is an IPS officer of 1984 batch of union territories cadre, currently serving as Special Director in Centre Region of Enforcement Directorate and will replace Rajan S Katoch.
Question: Who is the author of the book ‘The Kumbh Mela: Mapping the Ephemeral Megacity’?
A. Roman Saini
B. Ajeet Seth
C. Tarun Khanna
D. Rahul Mehrotra
Answer: C. Tarun Khanna
On 17thAug’15 the book titled, The Kumbh Mela: Mapping the Ephemeral Megacity, authored by Tarun Khanna was released by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. The book was edited by Rahul Mehrotra, Felipe Vera and Diana Eck.
Question: Who among the following has not been recommended for the 2015 Dhyan Chand Award?
A. TPP Nair
B. SP Misra
C. Romeo James
D. Gurmail Singh
Answer: D. Gurmail Singh 
The selection committee headed by former Indian hockey captain Zafar Iqbal on 18 August 2015 recommended the names of TPP Nair (former captain of Volley ball team), SP Misra (former captain of Davis Cup) and Romeo James (former goalkeeper of the Indian hockey team)for 2015 Dhyan Chand award. In 2014, the award was conferred on three individuals, namely Gurmail Singh (Hockey), KP Thakkar (Swimming-Diving) and Zeeshan Ali.
Question: Which country lifted the South Asian Football Federation U-16 title on 18th Aug’15?
A. India
B. Bangladesh
C. Sri Lanka
D. Nepal
Answer: B. Bangladesh 
On 18th Aug’15 Bangladesh Under-16 team won their first-ever South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) under-16 title by defeating Indian team. The tournament was participated by India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and the Maldives.
Question: In which city is the second summit of the Forum for India Pacific Island Cooperation (FIPIC) is scheduled to be held on 21st Aug’15?
A. Jaipur
B. Jakarta
C. Bangkok
D. Hanoi
Answer: A. Jaipur 
Mr. Modi during his visit to Fiji in 2014 had identified areas for cooperation including food processing, fisheries, solar energy, tele-medicine and climate change and proposed FIPIC summit to be held regularly. A Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation FIPIC was set up, and the forthcoming summit in Jaipur is part of the process. The first FIPIC summit was held in Suva Fiji in November, 2014.
Question: How many Non Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) have been suspended by the orders issued by RBI under RBI Act, 1934?
A. 2
B. 5
C. 7
D. 10
Answer: C. 7
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has suspended licences of seven non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), some for being dormant and some for either not carrying out its principal business or not fulfilling various norms including minimum net owned funds. The seven NBFCs whose licences were suspended are Religare Finance, Artisans Micro Finance, Eden Trade & Commerce, RCS Parivar Finance, Nott Investments, Dewra Stocks & Securities and Swetasree Finance.
Question: Name the mobile wallet app launched by the State Bank of India on 18th Aug’15?
A. Wallet
B. Apna Purse
C. InstantPay
D. Buddy
Answer: D. Buddy
State Bank of India launched a mobile wallet application, SBI Buddy, in collaboration with Accenture and Mastercard. The service will be available to existing as well as non-SBI customers. The application is available in 13 languages with several features like cash transfer, bill payment, all types of ticket bookings payment and booking for movies, hotels as well as for shopping. The app is available to all android mobile phone users, at present, and soon will be launched for other mobile operating software.
Question: According to ASSOCHAM, which State led the employment generation in manufacturing sector of the country in 2012-13?
A. Andhra Pradeh
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Karnataka
D. Punjab
Answer: B. Tamil Nadu
Among 20 States that were part of the analysis, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded a positive growth, while others saw a significant decline. Overall, employment generation in 2012- 13 in the manufacturing sector declined to 12.95 million from 13.4 million in 2011-12, registering a fall of 3.6%. 
Question: Which political group emerged as the largest group to win the Sri Lankan polls held in Aug’15?
A. United National Party
B. Lanka Desham Party
C. Tamil National Party
D. None of these
Answer: A. United National Party
The results of Sri Lanka’s 15th General Elections on 18th Aug’15 have brought to a close the Rajapaksa era in country’s politics. United National Party leader and current Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesighe has return to the parliament as the leader of the largest group, with possible support from several members from the opposite camp. 
Question: Name the India based airlines that signed a massive deal to purchase 250 aircrafts from Europe’s Airbus Company?
A. Vistara Airlines
B. Indian Airlines
C. SpiceJet Airways
D. Indigo Airlines
Answer: D. Indigo Airlines
The deal makes IndiGo the largest airline customer for the Airbus A320-family of aircraft. It is the largest ever order in terms of volume by any company. 
Question: Which country did PM Narendra Modi visit on 16th Aug’15?
A. Iran
B. Israel
C. Kuwait
D. UAE
Answer: D. UAE
Narendra Modi was on a 2-day official visit of the UAE and became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the UAE in 34 years.
Question: The headquarter of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is located at ____.
A. Durban
B. Masdar
C. Beijing
D. New Delhi
Answer: B. Masdar
Masdar city is located in UAE that relies completely on solar energy and other renewable sources of energy. Masdar city is also known as world’s first zero-carbon and car-free smart city. 
Question: On 18th Aug’15 which of the following courts directed the chief secretary of Uttar Pradesh to ensure that government servants, representatives of people, Judiciary etc send their wards to the government primary school of the state , so that they become serious enough to ensure good condition of primary schools?
A. Delhi High Court
B. Allahabad High Court
C. Supreme Court
D. Bombay High Court
Answer: B. Allahabad High Court
While hearing a petition filed by Shiv Kumar Pathak and others, Justice Sudhir Agarwal severely criticized the condition of junior basic schools in the state and said until wards of Judges, people's representatives and bureaucrats would study compulsorily in these schools the condition will not improve. Justice Agarwal ordered the chief secretary to ensure that children of all government and quasi government employees, People's representatives, judges and bureaucrats study in government schools and if they not obey the order some punitive actions will also be taken against them. 
Question: Name the wife of President Pranab Mukherjee who passed away on 18th Aug’15?
A. Sonam Mukherjee
B. Annapurna Mukherjee
C. Suvra Mukherjee
D. Akshita Das
Answer: C. Suvra Mukherjee
Mrs Mukherjee was born on 17th of September 1940 in Jessore and got married to Mr Pranab Mukherjee in 1957. She was a vocalist of Rabindra Sangeet and founded the Geetanjali Troupe. She had also written two books Chokher Aloey and Chena Achenai Chin. 
Question: Around which sanctuary located in the national capital region, the demarcation of eco-sensitive zone has been completed by the government?
A. National Bird Sanctuary
B. Okhla Bird Sanctuary
C. Gautam Buddha Vihar Sanctuary 
D. Buddha Bird Sanctuary
Answer: B. Okhla Bird Sanctuary
The announcement will come as a major relief to the people who have booked their flats in the area and invested huge amounts of their hard earned money.Earlier in the day, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the Ministry to issue the final notification on Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the sanctuary within three weeks Once the notification is issued, the government will allow the home buyers outside the ESZ to get occupancy certificates of their flats, which had been pending for quite some time.
Question: For which state, PM Narendra Modi announced Rs. 1.25 Lakh Crore special package on 18th Aug’15?
A. Bihar
B. Telangana
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Uttarakhand
Answer: A. Bihar
About half of the Prime Minister's Bihar Package of Rs 1.25 lakh crore will be spent on construction of highways and bridges. A press release issued by the PMO said that around 55 thousand crore rupees will be spent on four-laning and widening of highways, construction of bridges across Ganga, Sone and Kosi rivers and 12 Rail overbridges.
Question: Which bank has launched the fist contactless debit, credit and multi-currency forex card?
A. Axis Bank
B. ICICI Bank
C. HDFC Bank
D. SBI
Answer: A. Axis Bank 
The bank launched contactless multi-currency forex cards in partnership with Visa - the payments gateway company. Axis Bank would be the first bank to issue multi-currency contactless cards or 'tap and pay' cards which can be loaded in 15 currencies such as Swiss Franc and Hong Kong dollar besides the three main currencies - US dollar, Euro and British Pound.
Question: With which country India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to tackle the menace of fake Indian currency notes (FICN) smuggling in Aug’15?
A. Myanmar
B. China
C. Pakistan
D. Bangladesh
Answer: D. Bangladesh 
The MoU was signed during a maiden meeting of the Joint Task Force on Fake Currency Notes (JTFFC) in Dhaka.
Question: Name the Indian cricketer who became the first player in test cricket history to take 8 catches in a match?
A. Rohit Sharma
B. Ajinkya Rahane
C. Virat Kohli
D. Shikhar Dhawan
Answer: B. Ajinkya Rahane 
Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane created a world record as he became the first non-keeper player to take eight catches in a Test match. He achieved the feat on the third day of the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle when he caught Rangana Herath at slip off Amit Mishra.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Chairman of the Public Enterprises Selection Board?
A. Atul Chaturvedi
B. Aradhan Jauhari
C. S P Goel
D. Ajit Kumar Seth
Answer: D. Ajit Kumar Seth 
He is a 1974-batch IAS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, completed his extended tenure of four years at the Cabinet secretariat on 13th June 2015.
Question: Which state’s Chief Minister has launched an official twitter account of Taj Mahal on 15th Aug’15?
A. Delhi
B. Bihar
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Gujarat
Answer: C. Uttar Pradesh 
The Uttar Pradesh Tourism said the Taj had become the first historical monument in the world to have its own Twitter account.
Question: Name the new name of the Agriculture Ministry as proposed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address to the nation on 15th Aug’15?
A. Ministry of Indian Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare
B. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ministry
C. Ministry of Indian Agriculture and Welfare
D. Agriculture and Welfare Ministry
Answer: B. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ministry.
Question: On 15th Aug’15, which of the following campaigns was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day Address?
A. Start-up India, Stand up India
B. Start and Run India
C. Learn and Earn India
D. Skilled and Expert India
Answer: A. Start-up India, Stand up India 
It is associated with Promoting banks to finance start-ups and offer incentives to boost entrepreneurship and job creation. It is expected to give a new dimension to entrepreneurship and help set up a network of start-ups in the country.
Question: On 17th Aug’15, from which city direct flights to Sharjah was inaugurated?
A. Pune
B. Varanasi
C. Lucknow
D. Kochi
Answer: B. Varanasi 
The Varanasi-Sharjah flight, IX 183, took off from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi with 170 passengers.
Question: In Golf, what position has been achieved by Anirban Lahiri at the US PGA championship, Whistling Straits?
A. 1st
B. 3rd
C. 5th
D. 2nd
Answer:  C. 5th 
Anirban Lahiri finished tied 5th at the US PGA championship at Whistling Straits which is the highest position by an Indian at a Golf Major. The 28-year-old Lahiri and American Brooks Koepka, shared the fifth position while Australia's Jason Day lifted the PGA Championship title. World No. 53 Lahiri won his first European Tour title at the Malaysian Open in February before adding a second later that month on home soil at the Indian Open.
Question: Who has won the Rogers Cup Masters tournament held in Canada on 17th Aug’15?
A. Andy Murray
B. Novak Djokovic
C. Leander Paes
D. Rafael Nadal
Answer: A. Andy Murray
World number two Murray won to record his first victory against the top seeded Serbian Novak Djokovic since the 2013 Wimbledon Final. It was Murray's 11th Masters title. Djokovic, who lost for just the fourth time this year, had won 12 consecutive Masters Series Finals before this.
Question: Who has been appointed as the 23rd Chief justice of Pak Supreme Court on 17th Aug’15?
A. Nasirul Mulk
B. Mamnoon Hussain
C. Jawwad S Khawaja
D. Shiraj Hussain
Answer: C. Jawwad S Khawaja 
Justice Khawaja, the senior-most sitting judge, will serve as chief justice for only 23 days as he is due to retire on the 9th of next month.
Question: In 2014-15, Food grain production in country is estimated to have declined by _____.
A. 0.32%
B. 2.34%
C. 3.12%
D. 4.66%
Answer: D. 4.66% 
Country's food grain production is estimated to have declined 4.66 per cent to 252.68 million tonnes (MT) in 2014-15 crop year due to poor monsoon and unseasonal rains in February-March. An official statement says, total foodgrain production in the country is estimated at 252.68 MT, which is lower by 12.36 MT than the last year's record foodgrain production of 265.04 MT.
Question: In which country, two powerful bomb blasts occurred outside a hugely popular Lord Brahma temple on 17th Aug’15?
A. Bangladesh
B. Thailand
C. Indonesia
D. Singapore
Answer: B. Thailand 
The temple is located on a main road through Bangkok's commercial hub and is surrounded by three major shopping malls. It is among Bangkok's most popular tourist attractions.
Question: The 2015 US-India Cyber Dialogue was held on 11-12th Aug’15 in which city?
A. New Delhi
B. Geneva
C. Washington DC
D. Berlin
Answer: C. Washington DC 
The dialogue was held with an aim to increase global cyber security and promote the digital economy.
Question: In which country the first International Army Games was held?
A. China
B. Brazil
C. Kuwait
D. Russia
Answer: D. Russia 
The International Army Games 2015 were held August 1st to 15th on 11 training ranges across three Russia’s military commands, the Western, the Southern and the Central. Fifty seven teams from 17 countries from Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America, which competed at the Games.
Question: Name the player who clinched the gold medal in the compound men's individual section in the Archery World Cup Stage 3 competition in Poland on 15th Aug’15?
A. Deepika Kumari
B. Abhishek Verma
C. Mangal Singh Champia
D. None of the above
Answer: B. Abhishek Verma 
At Wroclaw, the world number 18 was at his best in the individual final as he held on to his lead to wrap up the issue against Esmaeil Ebadi of Iran.
Question: Name the Indian badminton player who became the first Indian to win a silver in the World Badminton Championship on 16th Aug’15?
A. Ashwani Ponappa
B. Aditya Joshi
C. Saina Nehwal
D. P Kashyap
Answer: C. Saina Nehwal 
She lost the women's singles summit clash to Spain's Carolina Marin in Jakarta. This was India's fifth medal at the World Championship after PV Sindhu clinched the bronze twice in 2013 and 2014 and Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa notched up a bronze in women's doubles at the 2011 edition. Legendary shuttler Prakash Padukone was the first Indian to win a bronze at the 1983 edition.
Question: Which of the following countries declared State of Emergency due to over increasing activity at the Cotopaxi volcano?
A. Ecuador
B. Colombia
C. Peru
D. Chile
Answer: A. Ecuador 
Ecuador President Rafael Correa has declared a state of emergency over increasing activity at the Cotopaxi volcano near the capital Quito. Cotopaxi is among the world's most dangerous volcanoes and is prone to fast-moving rock and mud flows. Cotopaxi last had a major eruption in 1877.
Question: On 16th Aug’15, Hamida Salem passed away at her residence in Jamia Nagar, New Delhi. She is a/an ______.
A. Urdu Writer
B. Politician
C. Singer
D. Poet
Answer: A. Urdu Writer 
Salim was the first woman graduate of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). She had penned down many books including' Shorish-e-Dauran', 'Ham Saath Thhe','Parchhaiyon Ke Ujale' and ' Hardam Rawan Hai Zindagi'. She was sister of the legendary poet Israrul Haqu Mazaj and aunt of famous lyricist Javed Akhtar.
Question: Name the title of the India-US Combined Military Training Exercise scheduled to be held from 9th Sep’15 at Joint Base Lewis McChord in the USA?
A. EXPEDITION 2015
B. WAR EXERCISE 2015
C. YUDH ABHYAS 2015
D. YUDH SAMAGAM 2015
Answer: C. YUDH ABHYAS 2015 
The exercise will be the 11th such event in the Yudh Abhyas series, which started in 2004 under US Army Pacific partnership program.
Question: Who won the best actor award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2015?
A. Amitabh Bachchan
B. Ajay Devgan
C. Shahrukh Khan
D. Irfan Khan
Answer: D. Irfan Khan
Irfan Khan was awarded for best actor award for his performance in ""Piku"" film.
Question: Who won the best actress award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2015?
A. Sonam Kapoor
B. Deepika Padukone
C. Bhumi Pednekar
D. Rani Mukherjee
Answer: C. Bhumi Pednekar 
She won the best actress award for acting in a ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’ movie.
Question: Which Hindi film was awarded as a best film on the second day of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2015?
A. Dum Laga Ke Haisha
B. Piku
C. Bahubali
D. Drishyam
Answer: B. Piku 
The programme was organised at the National Gallery of Victoria attended by various personalities including Australian High Commissioner to India Patrick Suckling, Indian High Commissioner Navdeep Suri, Consul General Manika Jain, Anil kapoor, Bhumi Padnekar, Simi Grewal, Sonam Kapoor,film director Shojit Sircar.
Question: The Government has extended the deadline for submission of public comments on the proposed policy framework for net neutrality till ___________.
A. 20th August
B. 30th August
C. 1st September
D. 5th September
Answer: A. 20th August 
Department of Telecom said in a notice on its website that last date for submission of suggestions and comments on report of committee on Net Neutrality through discussion forum under MyGov.in has been extended till 20th of August. Net neutrality implies that equal treatment be accorded to all Internet traffic and no priority be given to an entity or company based on the payment to content or service providers such as telecom companies, which is seen as discriminatory. The neutrality debate flared up in India after telecom operator Airtel launched a platform, Airtel Zero, that would allow free access of some websites on its network.
Question: Who has allowed banks to tie up with insurers, to sell three products each from life, non-life and standalone health insurance segment?
A. RBI
B. SIDBI
C. NABARD
D. IRDAI
Answer: D. IRDAI 
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India Member Nilesh Sathe announced that the decision will not be binding on banks who are free to take their call.
Question: Name the body of 'eminent' professionals and officials, which will replace the Appointments Board for appointment of Whole-time Directors as well as non-Executive Chairmen of PSBs?
A. NITI Aayog
B. NIYATAM
C. Bank Board Bureau
D. Bureau of Banking Standards
Answer: C. Bank Board Bureau 
The government decided to set up a Bank Board Bureau, BBB through which two dozen state-run banks would be monitored for key performance indicators. The BBB will start the functioning from the 1st of April next year and the selection of its member will start in the next six months.
Question: Name the initiative launched by the Finance Minister Arun Jaitely to revamp functioning of public sector banks, PSBs on 14th Aug’15?
A. Seven Plan
B. Maulik Niti
C. BankNiti
D. Indradhanush
Answer: D. Indradhanush 
Indradhanush is a seven pronged plan that includes appointments, capitalisation, de-stressing PSBs, empowerment, framework of accountability and governance reforms.
Question: The Wholesale inflation registered in July 2015 is _____.
A. -2.04%
B. -1.14%
C. -4.05%
D. -5.1%
Answer: C. -4.05% 
Deflationary trends continued for the ninth month in a row in July with wholesale inflation plunging to a low of minus 4.05 per cent on cheaper vegetable and fuel. The WPI number follows retail inflation (CPI) data, which had slipped to a record low of 3.78 per cent in July. The overall wholesale price index-based (WPI) inflation was minus 2.40 per cent in June. It has been in the negative zone since November 2014. A year ago in July 2014, inflation was 5.41 per cent. During the month, pulses, milk, edible oil, egg, meat and fish turned dearer.
Question: Who has been appointed as the MD and CEO of Canara Bank by the government?
A. M S Dhir
B. Rakesh Sharma
C. Rajesh Dhariwal
D. Sanjay Shah
Answer: B. Rakesh Sharma 
Rakesh Sharma is chosen from private sector to head the Public Sector Bank.
Question: Who has been appointed as the MD and CEO of Bank of Baroda by the government?
A. P S Jayakumar
B. Jaykumar Sharma
C. Shiv Pal Sharma
D. Ajay Shankar
Answer: A. P S Jayakumar 
This is the first time the government has chosen the candidate from the private sector to head the Public Sector Banks.
Question: Name the founder and Chairman of Hero Cycles who passed away on 13th Aug’15?
A. Ajay Mehta
B. O P Munjal
C. B D Arora
D. R S Swaminathan
Answer: B. O P Munjal
Om Prakash Munjal was known as the doyen of Indian cycle industry. He along with his three brothers Brijmohan Lall Munjal, Dayanand Mujnal and Satyanand Munjal, had started a bicycle spare parts business in Amritsar in 1944.
Question: On European tour, Indian’s Men Hockey team won the Hockey test series against _______.
A. France
B. Spain
C. Italy
D. Finland
Answer: B. Spain 
Indian Men's Hockey Team on their European tour beat Spain in their third and final match at Teresa in Spain on 14th Aug’15 and won the three match series 2-1.
Question: On 15th Aug’15 India celebrated its ____ Independence Day.
A.67th
B.68th
C.69th
D. 70th
Answer: C. 69th
Question: Which bank has made profit worth Rs 3692 Crore for the first quarter of 2015-16 as announced on 11th Aug’15?
A. ICICI Bank
B. State Bank of India
C. Bank of Baroda
D. ING Vysya
Answer: B. State Bank of India 
Question: What is the new character limit for direct messages set by Twitter?
A. 320
B. 1000
C. 2500
D. 10000
Answer: D. 10000 
It will now allow messages of up to 10,000 characters in its mobile apps, desktop apps, and the web.
Question: Under which initiative Social network giant Facebook has given benefits of around 21 million dollars to Indian developers?
A. FacebookSetup
B. FbStart
C. FbStartup
D. Fb First
Answer: B. FbStart 
FbStart is a programme launched last year to help early-stage mobile start-ups build and grow their applications. Under this, Facebook runs two tracks called ‘Accelerate companies’ and ‘Bootstrap companies’ and for which it will provide software and tools worth 80,000 dollars and 30,000 dollars respectively to developers.
Question: Name the former Indian cricket team captain who became social ambassador of Coca-Cola India for three years? 
A. Kapil Dev
B. Sunil Gavaskar
C. Sachin Tendulkar
D. Saurav Ganguly
Answer: D. Saurav Ganguly 
He replaced Sachin Tendulkar whose contract ended in last year.
Question: Name the scheme that has been acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records for being the largest cash transfer program (households)?
A. UIDAI
B. Jan Dhan Yojana
C. PAHAL
D. All of above
Answer: C. PAHAL 
Government of India launched the `PAHAL’ Scheme in 54 districts of the country on 15.11.2014 and in remaining districts of the country on 1st January, 2015. As on 13.8.2015, 13.9 crore LPG consumers have joined the PAHAL scheme. LPG consumers who join the PAHAL scheme will get the LPG cylinders at market price and receive LPG subsidy (as per their entitlement) directly into their bank accounts.
Question: Name the person elected as the president of the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) on 12th Aug’15?
A. Sudhakar Shetty
B. Anirban Kumar
C. Anil Mahapatra
D. Suneel Singh
Answer: A. Sudhakar Shetty
The elections were held with Justice P K Bhasin (Retired Judge of Delhi High Court) acting as the Returning Officer in the presence of HS Bhadu, IOA Observer and R K Saxena, Government Observer.
Question: Who has been appointed as acting Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court?
A. Justice A K Nayar
B. Justice B N Mishra
C. Justice V M Sahai
D. Justice Jayant Patel
Answer: D. Justice Jayant Patel 
Justice Patel has replaced Justice V. M. Sahai who retired as acting chief justice on superannuation. Gujarat High Court has received a notification from the Supreme Court of India regarding the appointment of Justice Jayant Patel as the acting Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court on 12th Aug’15.
Question: On which planet Researchers have found what is believed to be the youngest lake?
A. Pluto
B. Kepler B-252
C. Mars
D. Saturn
Answer: C. Mars 
A new research study published in the journal Geology uncovered a basin that may have housed a body of water 36 million years ago, a full 200 million years after scientists believe Mars had seen its last drop of liquid water. The findings came from a study of salt deposits in an 18 square mile area near the Martian equator, about 100 miles from NASA’s Opportunity rover landing site.
Question: Who has been appointed as the new Election Commissioner on 13th Aug’15?
A. O P Rawat
B. P S Gangwar
C. S P Ranjan
D. R R Ranjan
Answer: A. O P Rawat 
Law Ministry said, the appointment of former Madhya Pradesh cadre IAS officer Mr Rawat will come into effect from the day he assumes office.
Question: Which of the following got accredited by the Green Climate fund as a national implementing entity for undertaking climate change related projects in India?
A. SIDBI
B. NABARD
C. MUDRA
D. EPFO
Answer: B. NABARD 
NABARD is the only NIE in the country, at present, for undertaking climate change projects. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was set up under the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2010 to help developing countries finance clean energy, other mitigation efforts and adaptation to climate change.
Question: On 16th Aug’15, PM Narendra Modi will embark on a journey to UAE. It is the first time that an Indian Prime Minister is going to Gulf Nations in the last _____ years.
A. 14
B. 23
C. 34
D. 46
Answer: C. 34 
He will meet the ruler, the vice president and also the prime minister of the country.
Question: How many Tigers were lost between January and 9th Aug’15 as per the data from National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and TRAFFIC-India, the wildlife trade monitoring network released in August 2015?
A. 11
B. 8
C. 34
D. 41
Answer: D. 41 
The States that have reported the maximum number of tiger deaths include Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Question: International Youth Day was observed on ______.
A. 12th August
B. 1st August
C. 2nd August
D. 8th August
Answer: A. 12th August 
The theme of International Youth Day 2015 is “Youth Civic Engagement.”
Question: Which country has sent shockwaves through global markets by moving to prevent a further drop in exports with the biggest one-off devaluation of its currency in 20 years?
A. Japan
B. United States
C. Hong Kong
D. China
Answer: D. China 
The People’s Bank of China said the centre of the yuan’s trading band was reset 1.9% lower at 6.2298 per US dollar, its weakest point against the US dollar for almost three years.
Question: Indian Snooker player won the World 6-Red Snooker Championship on 12th Aug’15. It was his ____ world title.
A. 1st
B. 5th
C. 13th
D. 19th
Answer: C. 13th 
Question: In which month Industrial output grows at 4 month high of 3.8% in India?
A. May
B. June
C. July
D. August
Answer: B. June
According to data released by the Central Statistics Office, the manufacturing sector, which constitutes over 75 percent of the IIP, grew at 4.6 per cent in June this year. But output of capital goods, a barometer of investment, contracted 3.6 per cent, and mining sector output fell 0.3 per cent during the month. Power generation growth stood at 1.3 per cent in June.
Question: Which of the following has been awarded a rating of A+ by the Power Ministry in its Third Annual Integrated Rating Exercise covering 40 state power distribution utilities across India?
A. ASPCL
B. UPPCL
C. APPCL
D. PSPCL
Answer: D. PSPCL 
Apart from Punjab, Gujarat is the second state which has got A+ Rating. Union Minister of State for Power, Coal and Renewable Energy, Piyush Goyal has formally announced the award of the rating to the PSPCL.
Question: Name the mountain that was sealed off by the Malaysian authorities following a magnitude 6 earthquake and will reopen partially on 1st Sep’15?
A. Mount Muchinga
B. Mount Alps
C. Mount Kinabalu
D. Mount Kilimanjaro
Answer: C. Mount Kinabalu 
The park is expected to open from September 1st, but visitors will be able to climb up to only Laban Rata because trails to the summit, which were damaged by the earthquake, have not been repaired. Laban Rata is the last stop for climbers heading to the summit.
Question: Which country’s prime minister resigned live on TV, hours after peace talks between the country’s rival factions restarted?
A. Egypt
B. Libya
C. Sudan
D. South Sudan
Answer: B. Libya 
The prime minister of Libya's internationally recognised government, Abdullah al-Thani, has announced his resignation. The announcement was made in a surprise move live on television, hours after peace talks between the country's rival factions restarted. During the talk show, Prime Minister Al-Thani faced angry questions from citizens who blamed his government for the lack of basic services such as electricity and poor security in areas of it controls. Al-Thani said during the show that if his exit is the solution, he resigns. He added that his resignation will be submitted to the parliament on 16th Aug’15.
Question: By what percent Indirect tax revenue surged in April-July 2015?
A. 12%
B. 19%
C. 25%
D. 37%
Answer: D. 37% 
Indirect tax revenue jumped over 37.6 per cent to over 2.1 lakh crore rupees during April-July period of current fiscal due to the higher excise collections. A press release issued by the Finance Ministry on 11th Aug’15 stated that the indirect tax collections were 1.53 lakh crore rupees during the similar period of the previous fiscal. While in July 2015-16, the indirect tax collections grew by 39.1 per cent from a year ago period to 56,739 crore rupees.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Maharastra’s tiger Ambassador?
A. Manoj Bajpai
B. Salman Khan
C. Amitabh Bachchan
D. Nana Patekar
Answer: C. Amitabh Bachchan 
On 10 Aug’15, Amitabh Bachchanaccepted the proposal of Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar to be the Maharashtra’s Tiger Ambassador of the state.
Question: Name the new mobile app launched by the Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on 10th Aug’15 to promote digital literacy in Bihar?
A. Samiksha
B. Disha
C. Saksharta
D. Marg
Answer: B. Disha 
The app also aims to offer digital literacy to tribal and Dalit women in the state. The app can be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store.
Question: International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples was observed on ________.
A. 5th August
B. 7th August
C. 9th August
D. 11th August
Answer: C. 9th August 
The theme for this year was “Post 2015 Agenda: Ensuring indigenous peoples' health and well-being”.
Question: Name the new company that has owned Google Company?
A. Umbrella
B. Galaxy
C. MoonLab
D. Alphabet
Answer: D. Alphabet 
Google has a new owner: a holding company called Alphabet, run by Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. Alphabet owns a few other things, too: namely, every company ever created or acquired under the tech giant’s many-tentacled purview.
Question: Name the Congress leader presented with 24th Saraswati Samman for 2014 for his epic "Sri Ramayana Mahanveshanam" written in Kannada?
A. M.Veerappa Moily
B. Jairam Ramesh
C. Nandan Nilekani
D. Milind Deora
Answer: A. M.Veerappa Moily 
Question: Which city becomes first Indian city to be a member of the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) Council and join its league of leading tourism cities across the World?
A. Mumbai
B. Panaji
C. Shimla
D. Kochi
Answer: D. Kochi 
The invitation was formally accepted by the Kerala State Tourism Dept. on 10th Aug’15.
Question: With which bank the Government of India signed the Financing Agreement for assistance of US$ 308.40 million for National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project-II (NCRMP-II)?
A. BRICS
B. ADB
C. World Bank 
D. European Central Bank
Answer: C. World Bank 
The objective of NCRMP-II is to reduce vulnerability to cyclone and other hydro-meteorological hazards of coastal communities in the States of Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and West Bengal; and increase the capacity of the State entities to effectively plan for and respond to disasters. NCRMP-II has four components which are: (i) Early Warning Dissemination Systems; (ii) Cyclone Risk Mitigation Infrastructure; (iii) Technical Assistance for Multi-Hazard Risk Management; and (iv) Project Management and Implementation Support.
Question: On 11th Aug’15, Sania Mirza became the second tennis player to be recommended for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award. Name the tennis player who was the first to won this award?
A. Leander Paes
B. Mahesh Bhupati
C. Ajay Padukone
D. Sorabjit Sen
Answer: A. Leander Paes
Sania is only the second tennis player after Leander Paes to be named for the top award. Paes had been bestowed the honour way back in 1996 after his bronze medal in the Atlanta Olympics. The Hyderabadi girl had won the Arjuna award in 2004. In 2006, she was bestowed the Padma Shri the country's fourth highest civilian honour.
Question: On 11th Aug’15 which of the following country switched on a nuclear reactor for the first time in nearly two years?
A. India
B. China
C. Japan
D. Iraq
Answer: C. Japan 
Japan switched on a nuclear reactor for the first time in nearly two years, as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe seeks to reassure a nervous public that tougher standards mean the sector is now safe after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Of Japan's 25 reactors at 15 plants for which operators have applied for permission to restart, only five at three plants have been cleared for restart.
Question: Name the new CEO of Google appointed on 11th Aug’15?
A. Satya Nadella
B. Sundar Pichai
C. R S Pichai
D. Shiv Murthy
Answer: A. Satya Nadella
The Chennai born 43-year-old IIT Kharagpur graduate is the second person of Indian-origin to head an IT company after Hyderabad-born Satya Nadella, who became the CEO of software giant Microsoft in February 2014.
Question: On 11th Aug’15, who ruled that Aadhar Card is not mandatory for availing various welfare schemes of the government?
A. Supreme Court
B. President of India
C. Parliament Panel
D. Delhi High Court
Answer: A. Supreme Court 
The court made it clear that even for availing facilities PDS, kerosene and LPG distribution system the card will not be mandatory. It barred the authorities from sharing personal biometric data collected for enrollment under the scheme. It directed that the information received by UIDAI shall not be used for any other purposes, except in criminal investigation with the permission of the court. A Constitution bench of the apex court will also decide the larger question of whether collecting biometric data for preparing Aadhar cards infringeds an individual's privacy and if right to privacy was a fundamental right.
Question: Name the Indian socio-biologist who was awarded with the Germany's highest civilian honour Cross of Order of the Merit at the German Consulate in Bengaluru on 7th Aug’15?
A. Raghavendra Gadagkar
B. Tejaskar Pandey
C. Dr. Sangita Pandey
D. None of these
Answer: A. Raghavendra Gadagkar 
Gadagkar is a professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science (IISc). He is also the president of the Indian National Science Academy and has published more than 270 research papers and two books.
Question: Name the Australian player who has announced his retirement from International Cricket after playing the current Ashes series?
A. Steve Smith
B. Mitchell Stark
C. Michael Clarke
D. Michael Hussy
Answer: C. Michael Clarke 
Australia captain Michael Clarke will retire from international cricket at the end of the current Ashes series. He averages only 16 from eight innings and Australia are 3-1 behind with one match left at The Oval on 20 August 2015.
Question: Name the senior India hockey player who was suspended on 10th Aug’15 for 9 months for indulging in groupism and creating disharmony within the team?
A. Sardar Singh
B. Gurbaj Singh
C. Manjeet Singh
D. Manpreet Sodhi
Answer: B. Gurbaj Singh 
The decision to suspend Gurbaj was taken after a meeting of Hockey India's disciplinary committee headed by Harbinder Singh with the midfielder and former India coach Jude Felix. The coach levelled the charges against Gurbaj in his report after last month's Hockey World League Semifinals in Antwerp, Belgium.
Question: Who has won the Best female playback singer award announced by the Kerala State Film Awards 2014?
A. Sunidhi Chauhan
B. Nasriya Naseem
C. Shreya Ghosal
D. Anna Fathima
Answer: C. Shreya Ghosal 
Nasriya Naseem won the best actress award for her performance in the films 'Om Shanthi Hosana' and 'Bangalore Days' while Shreya Ghoshaal was adjudged the best female playback singer. Anna Fathima was adjudged the best child actress award.
Question: On 10th Aug’15, Rajasthan High Court banned the Santhara ritual prevailing in the _______.
A. Marwari Community
B. Jain Community
C. Buddhism Community
D. Gurjar Community
Answer: B. Jain Community 
The court considered it a criminal act amounting to suicide and directed to register cases under section 306 of IPC. The Court banned this ritual, following a Public Interest Litigation filed by human rights activist a decade ago, claiming that the ritual is a social evil and should be considered as a suicide. The ancient ritual, also called Sallekhana, is the voluntary starvation to embrace death. Jain religious leaders has strongly criticized the court judgement. Reacting to judgement, Tarun Sagarji Maharaj has said that this judgement has been given without properly understanding the principles of Jain Religion.
Question: In Gujarat, Sessions Judge P B Desai, who is conducting trial in the 2002 Gulberg Society riots case, on 10th Aug’15 visited the society in Meghaninagar area Ahmedabad, where 69 persons of the minority community, including former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri, were killed by a mob. Name the judge who visited the same crime scene in 2010?
A. Justice B U Joshi
B. Justice H L Dattu
C. Justice Markandey Katju
D. Justice D K Sinha
Answer: A. Justice B U Joshi 
Desai is the second judge in the case who has visited the crime scene. Justice B U Joshi, who was earlier conducting the trial in the case, had also visited the Gulberg Society in 2010. On 10th Aug’15 during the visit, Desai was accompanied by S M Vora, who is an advocate of riot survivors, and special public prosecutor R C Kodekar as well as defence lawyers.
Question: Name the scheme launched by the government on 10th Aug’15 to bring students closer to nature by involving them in raising of saplings in school nurseries?
A. Save Mother Earth Scheme
B. School Nursery Yojana
C. Bal Nursery Yojana
D. Tree Plantation Scheme
Answer: B. School Nursery Yojana 
Urging every student to plant a tree each, Mr Javadekar said that every school must earmark space to prepare a small nursery where the saplings could be planted. The Minister also presented a sapling and a packet of seeds to students from each school for planting in their school. He exhorted the students to take the grown sapling planted by them along with their annual results to their homes.
Question: In Kerala, freedom fighter, Kayyar Kinhanna Rai passed away at his residence in Badiyadkain Kasargod district on 9th Aug’15. He was also a ______.
A. Author
B. Poet 
C. Singer
D. Author and Poet
Answer: D. Author and Poet 
Mr Rai, aged 101, was recipient of the Karnataka Sahitya Academy award in 1969 and the national award the same year for the best teacher.
Question: Which university has awarded a Gold Medal to the 23 year old prisoner lodged in Varanasi Central Jail for topping in Diploma in Tourism Studies?
A. Allahabad University
B. Banaras Hindu University
C. IGNOU
D. SMU
Answer: C. IGNOU
The inmate is the only gold medalist from Varanasi region of IGNOU, which covers 20 districts. Ajeet Kumar Saroj, a culpable homicide convict was on 8th Aug’15 escorted to the Banaras Hindu University where he was awarded his diploma at the 28th convocation of IGNOU. Ajeet, is serving a 10-year imprisonment. He was lodged in jail in February 2012 and has pursued four certificate courses from IGNOU before pursuing the Diploma in Tourism Studies.
Question: World Bio Fuel Day was observed on ________.
A. 1st Aug
B. 3rd Aug
C. 7th Aug
D. 10th Aug
Answer: D. 10th Aug 
On World Bio Fuel Day, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the four retail outlets of bio fuel blended diesel. Of them, one is in Delhi and other three are in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Haldiya.
Question: Which of the following parties would celebrate Independence Day as ‘Swaraj Parv’?
A. BJP
B. Congress
C. AAP
D. AIADMK
Answer: C. AAP 
Aam Aadmi Party government has announced that it will celebrate Independence Day as Swaraj Parv with a three-day grand cultural programme planned in Connaught Place. The Swaraj Parv will include Hindi Kavi Sammelan, Urdu Mushaira, qawwali show and musical drama.
Question: In which of the following regions of Afghanistan, a high intensity earthquake was experienced on 10th Aug’15?
A. Ghazni
B. Hindukush
C. Bamiyan
D. Kabul
Answer: B. Hindukush 
Question: What was the theme of the 48th ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Foreign Ministers’ meet that was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia between 4- 6 Aug’15?
A. Our People, Our Community, Our Vision
B. Our Community, Our Vision
C. Our People, Our Vision
D. Our People, Our Community, Our Tradition
Answer: A. Our People, Our Community, Our Vision 
Besides, the ASEAN foreign ministers meet was participated by India’s Minister of State for External Affairs of India Gen (Retd) VK Singh.
Question: Name the satellite that was proposed to be named after former Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam?
A. GSLV-23
B. PSLV-WAT
C. GlobalSat for DRR
D. GlobeNavSat
Answer: C. GlobalSat for DRR 
The proposal to name the satellite after Dr. Kalam was made by Milind Pimprikar, Chairman of CANEUS (Canada-Europe-US-Asia) headquartered in Montreal, Canada. The satellite to be used for earth observation and disaster risk reduction will be renamed as UN Kalam GlobalSat.
Question: Name the initiative launched by the Union Government for the NITI Aayog plans to work with states to prune their administrative structure & improve their efficiency and governance?
A. RAJYAMNITI
B. NITYAM
C. NIYATAM
D. DESHNITI 
Answer: C. NIYATAM 
The move is part of a larger interaction with states called NIYATAM or NITI Initiative to Yield Aspirational Targets and Actionable Means, where the NITI Aayog plans to engage with them on six issues.
Question: In a survey conducted during 2014-15 by the Ministry of Urban Development, which city topped the Swachh Bharat Rankings among 476 cities in India?
A. Chandigarh
B. Thiruchirapalli 
C. Mysuru
D. Navi Mumbai
Answer: C. Mysuru 
The top 10 ranked cities in the city are Mysuru, Thiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu), Navi Mumbai, Kochi (Kerala), Hassan, Mandya and Bengaluru (Karnataka), Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), Halisahar (West Bengal) and Gangtok (Sikkim).
Question: Name the Indian-American diplomat appointed as the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives?
A. Richard Rahul Verma
B. Amit Khaitan
C. Aakash Sen
D. Atul Keshap
Answer: D. Atul Keshap 
He became the second Indian origin diplomat to be posted after Richard Rahul Verma.
Question: In which country, the World Badminton Championship will be started from 10th Aug’15?
A. India
B. Malaysia
C. China
D. Indonesia
Answer: D. Indonesia 
Led by Saina Nehwal and Kidambi Srikanth, India will be fielding its biggest contingent at the prestigious championships which will be held at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium. It is for the first time that India will have two players in the top 5 -- Saina (World No 2 in women's singles) and Srikanth (World No 3 in men's singles).
Question: In which district of Tamil Nadu, Stanley Reservoir has been opened for irrigation?
A. Coimbatore
B. Salem
C. Erode
D. Kanchipuram
Answer: B. Salem
It is the major dam in the state and its sluice gates are normally opened every year on June 12. However, during deficient storage years, the date of release used to be deferred. The release on 9th Aug’15 would help to irrigate over 12-lakh acres of land in the Cauvery Delta districts for Samba Crop.
Question: Name the typhoon called the biggest typhoon of the year that made a landfall in the Chinese coast on the night of 8th Aug’15?
A. El Nino
B. La Nino
C. Katrina
D. Soudelor
Answer: D. Soudelor
After pounding Taiwan, Soudelor made a landfall in Fujian Province and moved from there to neighbouring Zhejiang and Jiangxi provinces and has weakened.
Question: Name the country where four major parties have reached a landmark deal to divide the country into six provinces, each sharing its border with India?
A. Pakistan
B. Sri Lanka
C. Nepal 
D. Bangladesh
Answer: C. Nepal 
The agreement resolves contentious issues of federalism under the new constitution, a crucial development praised by Prime Minister Sushil Koirala. Mr Koirala and top leaders of CPN-UML, Nepali Congress, Unified CPN-Maoist and Madhesi Peoples Rights Forum Democratic, MPRFD, were present during the meeting. However, UCPN-Maoist and MPRFD, have signed the deal with some reservations.
Question: Name the drive that has been launched by the Government in a Mission Mode through participating banks and insurance companies to facilitate enrolment under social security schemes?
A. Suraksha Bandhan
B. Banking Vinivesh
C. Dhan Sanchay
D. Khaata Jeevan Yojna 
Answer: A. Suraksha Bandhan 
The schemes are Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, PMSBY, and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, PMJJBY. The drive launched in the back drop of Raksha Bandhan aims at taking forward the Government’s objective of creating a universal social security system in the country, targeted especially at the poor and the under-privileged.
Question: As per the notification by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 6th Aug’15, in which areas the banks are allowed to shift, merge or close branches without seeking its prior permission?
A. Urban Areas 
B. Rural Areas
C. Semi-Rural Areas
D. Semi-Urban Areas
Answer: A. Urban Areas 
In a notification on its website, RBI said banks can “shift, merge or close all branches except rural branches and sole semi-urban branches at their discretion”. Shifting, merging or closing a branch in a rural area or a sole branch in a semi-urban area would, however, continue to require prior permission from RBI.
Question: On 8th Aug’15 which bank has reported a 51% decline in its net profit to 256.7 crore rupees for the first quarter ended June 30 against the same quarter last fiscal?
A. PNB
B. UCO Bank
C. Allahabad Bank
D. Union Bank of India
Answer: B. UCO Bank 
The Gross Non-performing Assets as a percentage of total advances increased to 7.3 percent during June quarter, from 4.3 percent in the same period last fiscal. Net non-performing assets also rose to 4.5 percent against 2.3 per cent during the same quarter last year.
Question: Which country’s government on 7th Aug’15 announced that it will establish its own time zone from 15th August by pulling back its current standard time by 30 minutes?
A. India
B. China
C. North Korea
D. Japan
Answer: C. North Korea 
On 15th Aug’15 North Korea will celebrate 70th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule at the end of the World War II. At present North Korea has the same time zone as of Japan.
Question: As per the recently released India State of Forest Report-2013, what is the total forest cover in India?
A. 39.12%
B. 41.53%
C. 14.54%
D. 21.23%
Answer: D. 21.23% 
There is a net increase of 5871 square kilometers in the forest cover of the country as compared with India State of Forest Report – 2011. As per India State of Forest Report – 2013, the total forest cover in the country is 697,898 square kilometers which is 21.23% of the total geographical area of the country.
Question: On 7th Aug’15 Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has asked telecom companies to keep subscribers informed of all-important stages of _________.
A. Roaming Usage
B. Data Usage
C. Surveillance 
D. Hacking over Phone
Answer: B. Data Usage 
The directive issued on 7th Aug’15 mandates telecom operators to provide toll free number '1925' from September 1 to activate or deactivate mobile internet service either by making a call on the number and following instruction or by sending a SMS. The new directive from TRAI follows a large number of complaints from customers that mobile operators are keeping the process of deactivation very complex to earn extra revenue. The new amendment issued in Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations directs telecom operators not to charge subscribers for usage beyond subscribed limit without their explicit consent.
Question: Which country has to assess Chennai-Bangalore-Mysore corridor for raising trains' speed?
A. France
B. Italy
C. China
D. Japan
Answer: C. China 
China Railway Eryuan Group has been entrusted with feasibility study of Chennai-Bengaluru-Mysore corridor for raising the speed of passenger trains to 160 kilometer per hour as a part of cooperation in the rail sector. 
Question: On which of the following the government has imposed 10% import duty till March 2016?
A. Rice 
B. Cotton
C. Sugar
D. Wheat
Answer: D. Wheat 
This is announced in Lok Sabha on 7th Aug’15. It will result in the revenue gain of about Rs 90 crore to the exchequer.
Question: Why would India boycott Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference scheduled to be held in Islamabad next month?
A. In protest against Pakistan not inviting the Speaker of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
B. In protest against Pakistan for breaking cease fire across LoC.
C. In protest against Pakistan for appreciating infiltration across LoC.
D. All of these
Answer: A. In protest against Pakistan not inviting the Speaker of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. 
Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said, a meeting of Speakers of all states has unanimously decided that India will boycott the meeting of the CPA if the Speaker of
the Jammu and Kashmir is not invited. She also said that India is writing to the CPA Chairperson that if Jammu and Kashmir is not invited India will not attend the 
meeting or the venue be changed so that it can attend the conference.
Question: Name the company that has signed an agreement with the Maharashtra government on 8th Aug’15 in Mumbai to invest $5 billion in the state over the next five years, the largest investment by a foreign company in the western province?
A. General Motors
B. Hindustan Unilever Limited
C. Foxconn
D. Microsoft
Answer: C. Foxconn 
Foxconn manufactures gadgets for world’s leading electronic brands like Apple, Huawei, Xiaomi, BlackBerry and Motorola. This is second major coup for Maharashtra in the past fortnight. On 30 July, General Motors announced an investment of Rs.6,400 crore in the state. This investment will generate 50,000 direct jobs and the Foxconn plant is most likely to come up at Talegaon in Pune district along the Pune-Mumbai expressway on 1,500 acres of land.
Question: Why the Panama Canal Authority has said that from next month (September 2015) it would temporarily limit the size of ships using the waterway?
A. Because of the excess traffic of ships
B. Because of the threat to the lives of water species
C. Because of the effects of drought
D. All of these
Answer: C. Because of the effects of drought
The Panama Canal Authority has said that from next month it would temporarily limit the size of ships using the waterway, because of the effects of drought. It says the water levels of two lakes through which the route passes have fallen significantly as a result of dry conditions caused by the El Nino weather phenomenon.
Question: Name the person appointed as the Governor of the Himachal Pradesh on 8th Aug’15?
A. Acharya Dev Vrat
B. Narendra Singh 
C. Vimlesh Bisht
D. Ram Nath Singh
Answer: A. Acharya Dev Vrat 
Mr Acharya Dev Vrat has been working as Principal in a Gurukul in Haryana's Kurukshetra. He has been a recipient of American Medal of Honor awarded by American Biographical Institute towards selfless dedication in the field of social service.
Question: Who has been appointed as the Governor of Bihar on 8th Aug’15?
A. V K Naik
B. Acharya Dev Vrat
C. Ram Nath Kovind
D. Ram Achal Kushwaha
Answer: C. Ram Nath Kovind
He is the senior BJP leader. Mr Kovind, who had been a two-time Rajya Sabha member between 1994 and 2006, hails from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh. His appointment comes barely a few months ahead of the Assembly elections in Bihar.
Question: Name the scheme launched by Union Minority Affairs Minister to bridge the academic and skill development gaps of the deeni Madrasa passouts with their mainstream counterparts?
A. Naya Daur
B. Nayi Manzil
C. Taalim-e-Khaas
D. Taalim Aavam
Answer: B. Nayi Manzil 
The idea behind the new scheme is to help the students assimilate with their mainstream counterparts. Muslim clergies and academicians have welcomed the move. According to Government estimates, there are at least three lakh madrasas across the country. With an average of 100 students passing out of each madrasa every year, there are at least three crore new passouts.
Question: As announced by EPFO on 6th Aug’15, what amount of money would be invest by EPFO via Exchange Traded Funds (ETF)?
A. 200 Crore
B. 980 Crore
C. 2400 Crore
D. 5000 Crore
Answer: D. 5000 Crore
The Employment Provident Fund Organisation - EPFO will invest around Rs 5,000 crore this fiscal through SBI Mutual Fund's two index linked ETFs, one to the BSE's Sensex and the other to NSE's Nifty. The decision comes after the labour ministry allowed EPFO to invest 5 to 15 % of its incremental corpus in equities through ETFs. Asked why EPFO was starting off with just 5% of the corpus when it has the mandate for 15%, EPFO Commissioner K.K. Jalan said that the organisation had decided to go slow. Adding that investing through ETF route reduces risk, Mr. Jalan said fund allocation could increase to as much as Rs 70 billion to Rs 80 billion next year and that the organisation will also consider investing in other ETFs. Currently, EPFO has 8.5 trillion rupees under management, most of it invested in government bonds.
Question: On 6th Aug’15 the Lok Sabha adopted the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill 2015 that enables the _________.
A. Enable Cheque collections on Electronic Mode
B. Proposed to change the definition of Cheques
C. Lift the penalty over bouncing cheques
D. Increase the penalty over bouncing cheques
Answer: A. Enable Cheque collections on Electronic Mode
The proposed law seeks to amend the Negotiable Instruments Act of 1881 in tune with the modern day requirements for enabling electronic mode of operations. Nearly 40 thousand cheque bouncing cases are pending with High Courts and about 19 lakh cases in lower courts across the country.
Question: As per the Forbes list of 2015 World's Highest-Paid Actors, which of the following is at the top?
A. Jackie Chain
B. Robert Downey Jr.
C. Vin Diesel
D. Bradley Cooper
Answer: B. Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr. topped the list for the third year in a row with earnings of 80 million US dollars. Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan stood at seventh position with earnings of 33.5 Million US dollar.
Question: Which telecom company of India became the first company to roll out the pan-India 4G network which is built on an open partner ecosystem model?
A. Airtel
B. Idea
C. Reliance
D. Vodafone
Answer: A. Airtel
On 6th Aug’15 Bharti Airtel launched pan-India 4G high-speed data services in 296 towns across India and it will be available to customers through 4G-enabled mobile phones, internet dongles and Wi-Fi routers.
Question: Which telecom company‘s proposals to hive its towers into a new company got approval from Union Cabinet on 5th Aug’15?
A. Idea
B. Vodafone
C. Airtel
D. BSNL
Answer: D. BSNL
This will help BSNL to realign its structure in the highly competitive telecom sector. It will also help the public sector company to unlock its tower assets and improve its financial position.
Question: How many total medals were won by the Indian Police team that had participated in the 2015 Fairfax World Police & Fire Games held at Virginia, US from June 26 to July 05, 2015?
A. 88
B. 83
C. 157
D. 101
Answer: C. 157
The 53-member Indian Police team has returned with a record-breaking haul of 157 medals including 88 Gold, 49 Silver and 20 Bronze medals. The tally of 157 medals is the biggest harvest of medals and at these prestigious Games has broken the record of 2013 World Police & Fire Games held at Belfast (Northern Ireland) wherefrom Indian Police team had come back with 48 Gold, 22 Silver and 13 Bronze medals (total 83 medals)
Question: What is the theme of this year’s International Conference on 'Inclusive Museums' ?
A. Museums as Civic Spaces
B. Museums as the Knowledge of World
C. Museums-Remembrance of History
D. Museums- Time to Revamp
Answer: A. Museums as Civic Spaces
The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated an International Conference on ‘Inclusive Museums’ at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 6th Aug’15.
Question: With which country’s space agency NASA on 5th Aug’15 signed a contract worth 490 million US dollars with for carrying the US astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS)?
A. Britain
B. China
C. India
D. Russia
Answer: D. Russia
NASA further said a lack of funding for development of private vessels by US companies Boeing and Space-X over the last five years has left NASA with no other option. As a result, the US will pay for use of space vessels belonging to the Roscosmos-Russian Space Agency.
Question: On 6th Aug’15 which country unveiled a major extension of the Suez Canal to revive the economy after years of unrest?
A. Egypt
B. Sudan
C. Eritrea
D. Tunisia
Answer: A. Egypt
The project being carried out at a cost of 8.5 billion dollars extension of the waterway is funded entirely by Egypt without foreign aid. The extension involved digging and dredging along 72 kilometers of the 193 kilometer canal, making a parallel waterway at its middle that will facilitate two way traffic accommodating the world's largest ships.
Question: Why the date 7th August has been chosen for celebrating National Handloom Day in India?
A. Death Anniversary of Ravindra Nath Tagore observed on the same day.
B. Sant Kabir Awards was launched on the same day.
C. On this day, the Swadeshi Movement was launched in 1905.
D. National Awards for the year 2012 was launched on the same day.
Answer: C. On this day, the Swadeshi Movement was launched in 1905.
The date 7th of August has been chosen due to its special significance in India`s history. On this day, the Swadeshi Movement was launched in 1905. The movement involved revival of domestic products and production processes.
Question: Which temple in India has opened up a Demat account to accept donations from devotees in the form of shares and securities?
A. Shirdi Sai Temple
B. Tryambkeshwar Temple
C. Vaisho Devi Temple
D. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
Answer: D. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, also known as Tirupati Balaji, is considered to be one of India's richest temple and receives crores of rupees, precious metals and stock certificates in donations every year. The temple, as of August 2014, had around 5,000kg of gold deposited with various banks in India.
Question: The Ramanujan Prize for 2015 has been won by Mr. Amalendu Krishna of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai. He is a/an _________.
A. Social Scientist
B. Mathematician
C. Environmentalist
D. Economist
Answer: B. Mathematician
He has been recognised for outstanding contributions in the area of algebraic K-theory, algebraic cycles and the theory of motives. The prize is awarded jointly by the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Italy, the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and the International Mathematical Union (IMU) to a person under 45 working in a developing country.
Question: On which day did Japan mark the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in a ceremony in the city?
A. 4th August’15
B. 5th August’15
C. 6th August’15
D. 9th August’15
Answer: C. 6th August’15
An American B-29 bomber named Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb, dubbed "Little Boy", on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, in one of the final chapters of World War II.
Question: Name the World record breaking free dive champion who went missing after failing to surface from a dive near the Spanish island of Ibiza on 5th Aug’15?
A. Natalia Molachanova
B. Chen Aisen
C. Sascha Klein
D. Wang Han
Answer: A. Natalia Molachanova
She is presumed dead. The family said it was feared she got into difficulties in the strong underwater current. Natalia, widely regarded as the greatest free diver in history, who holds 41 world records could halt a breath for nine minutes.
Question: With which organisation the International Labour Organisation signed an MoU to impart training to MSMEs to make them competitive & boost productivity?
A. Indian Labor Organisation
B. NABARD
C. SIDBI
D. World Bank
Answer: A. Indian Labor Organisation
This is the second phase of the signing of Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises (SCORE) Global Programme, wherein national institutes provide training to MSMEs. In line with the objective of SCORE, ILO is entrusted with building capacity of FICCI in three phases to enable the industry body to effectively coordinate and manage SCORE training services.
Question: As per the UNICEF report which state has all the social development indices in its favour to declare it as the first Child-friendly State in the country?
A. Kerala
B. Gujarat
C. Goa
D. West Bengal
Answer: A. Kerala
UNICEF has made this assessment, based on the remarkable strides Kerala has made in the field of education, health and hygiene, sanitation, cleanliness and safe drinking water supply.
Question: Which state government has launched a full-fledged confidence building exercise to instill confidence among farming community in the state?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Karnataka
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Himachal Pradesh
Answer: B. Karnataka
Hence 10 days campaign is kicked off in all the districts to counsel farmers against suicide using audio visual medium and social media. Chief Minister and his council of ministers are visiting villages where farmers committed suicides. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is visiting families of farmers who committed suicide in Gadag and Dharwad districts on 5th Aug’15.
Question: Name the head of the Afghan Taliban’s political office who resigned in Qatar on 5th Aug’15?
A. Mullah Mohammad Omar
B. Agha Akhtar
C. Syed Mohammad Tayyeb Agha
D. None of these
Answer: C. Syed Mohammad Tayyeb Agha
In a statement released to the media, Tayyab Agha said there were historic mistakes made in keeping Mullah Omar’s death secret for nearly two years and in picking his successors outside of Afghanistan. Agha’s claim gives credence to the widespread perception that the Taliban’s new leader, Mullah Akhtar Mansoor, was selected with the backing of Pakistan. He said the new Taliban leader should have been elected from the Taliban fighters and in the bunkers.
Question: Which country will set up online police stations at key websites to strengthen internet security over allegations of hacking and cyber attacks?
A. India
B. Russia
C. Singapore
D. China
Answer: D. China
The online police will be responsible for openly inspecting the operation of websites and enforcing laws governing online activities. The Online Police stations were announced in the backdrop of reports that the US, which has been accusing China of hacking the key data of the top commercial firms, is considering retaliatory measures against China.
Question: With which country has India signed an MoU on expanding cooperation in energy sector on 5th Aug’15?
A. Mozambique
B. Guinea
C. Brazil
D. Republic of Congo
Answer: A. Mozambique
Mozambique is a large and proximate source of natural gas, coal and other minerals to meet India’s energy security. India and Mozambique share a history of profitable trade relations. Both nations' bilateral trade in 2014-15 values at 2.4 billion dollars. Trade between the two countries has multiplied five times in the last five years.
Question: While crossing which river, two trains Kamayani and Janata Express were derailed in Madhya Pradesh on 5th Aug’15?
A. Shipra
B. Machak
C. Betwa
D. Chambal
Answer: B. Machak
In Madhya Pradesh, 30 passengers were killed and more than 50 injured after two trains derailed while crossing a swollen Machak river near Harda. Ten coaches of Kamayani Express and four coaches plus the engine of Janata Express were derailed as the base material on the tracks got washed away in heavy rains. The mishap took place between Khirkiya and Bhirangi stations near Harda.
Question: How many member states of the United Nations on 2nd Aug’15 reached agreement on a new Sustainable Development Agenda for the next 15 years that calls for eradicating poverty and hunger, achieving gender equality, improving living standards and taking urgent action to combat climate change?
A. 193
B. 206
C. 252
D. 258
Answer: A. 193
With this agreement, the document called "Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" will be adopted at a UN summit just before the annual meeting of world leaders at the General Assembly in September 2015.
Question: Name the sports based on flying disc that have been given official recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 2nd Aug’15?
A. Disc Golf
B. Frisbee
C. Freestyle
D. Saucer Golf
Answer: B. Frisbee
The recognition was granted at IOC’s session as Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).
Question: Name the Hindi litterateur who was chosen for the Uttar Pradesh's highest literary award, Bharat Bharti, for the year 2014 on 3rd Aug’15?
A. Keshavnath Bharti
B. Mamta Kalia
C. Kashinath Singh
D. Bhakti Yadav
Answer: C. Kashinath Singh
The award is given by UP Hindi Sansthan every year. It carries a cash prize of 5 lakh rupees. He is best known for his most famous novel Kashi ka Assi, which captures the vibrant hues of Banaras.
Question: Which state police became the first law enforcement agency in the country to get access to TASER gun?
A. Delhi Police
B. J&K Police
C. Goa Police
D. Maharashtra Police
Answer: A. Delhi Police
The Delhi Police received the first lot of five Tasers – Taser X2 priced at Rs. 1 lakh each on 4th Aug’15. When fired, this non-lethal weapon releases electro-magnetic pulse that will paralyze the central nervous system of the suspect, leaving the person in a foetal position on the ground for almost 15 seconds.
Question: In which state Pawan Hans Chopper went missing since morning on 4th Aug’15?
A. Jammu & Kashmir
B. Assam
C. Nagaland
D. Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: D. Arunachal Pradesh
The helicopter was on a routines sortie to Longding from Tirap and was to return to Mohanbari airport in Dibrugarh, Assam when it lost contact.
Question: Which Insurance company will invest 1.50 lakh crore in Railways over 5 years?
A. Oriental Insurance Company
B. Life Insurance Corporation
C. National Assurance Company
D. Bajaj Allianz
Answer: B. Life Insurance Corporation
Life Insurance Corporation has agreed to provide funds to the tune of Rs 1.50 lakh crore to Railways for five years for infrastructure development.
Question: Name the Asia’s biggest telescope that was inaugurated at the Udaipur Solar Observatory on 4th Aug’15?
A. MAST
B. CAST
C. ASST
D. SATT
Answer: A. MAST
The Multi Application Solar Telescope (MAST) was inaugurated by the Professor U.R Rao- Chairman of Physical Research Laboratory. MAST will be the biggest ever telescope which can help to study the movements of stars and sun even in the day time. He said with the help of the device the researchers will be able to achieve new heights internationally in the study of sun and the related components. The telescope was installed under the Ministry of Science and Technology and was funded by Department of Space.
Question: Name the magazine launched to monitor the progress of the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana?
A. Gram Vikaas
B. Saansad Gram Vikaas
C. Adarsh Gram Vikaas
D. Panchayat Darpan
Answer: D. Panchayat Darpan
It will act as a mirror of all the development activities in the village panchayats. Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana was launched in October last year under which MPs are to develop three Adarsh Gram Panchayats by 2019. The objective of the programme is to create Model Villages.
Question: On 4th Aug’15, Rural Development Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh launched a document which is a compilation of all schemes of both Central and State governments for Gram Panchayats. What is the title given to the document?
A. SAMAGAM
B. SAMANVAY
C. SAMPOORN
D. SAMAST
Answer: B. SAMANVAY
Briefing media in New Delhi after the launch, Mr Singh said the purpose behind bringing out SAMANVAY is to help MPs in utilising relevant schemes in the planning and implementation of Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana. He said more than 1800 state schemes from across all states have been documented in SAMANVAY.
Question: Current Affairs Questions and Answers - August 05, 2015
In its third bi-monthly monetary policy review Reserve Bank of India has kept its key policy rates ________.
A. Increased
B. Decreased
C. Unchanged
D. None of these
Answer: C. Unchanged
In Mumbai, RBI announced that repo rate at which the RBI lends to the system, will remain unchanged at 7.25 per cent. The cash reserve ratio (CRR) which is the proportion of deposit banks have to park with the central bank, will remain at 4 per cent.
Question: Name the country that broke the India's Guinness World record for largest umbrella?
A. Singapore
B. United States
C. China
D. Japan
Answer: C. China
The umbrella company in east China's Jiangxi Province set the new record for creating the world's largest umbrella by unveiling an umbrella of around 23 meters in diameter and 14.4 meters in height. According to the website of Guinness World Records, the largest umbrella measures 17.06 m (56 ft) in diameter and is 10.97 m (36 ft) tall and was made by Max New York Life Insurance (India).
Question: Which country has launched the telephone hotline aimed at preventing people from joining the Islamic State (IS) militant group?
A. Afghanistan
B. India
C. Bangladesh
D. Russia
Answer: D. Russia
Russians, who fear that their family members could be under the threat of being recruited by the IS, can address their concerns to the State Civic Chamber by phone or in writing.
Question: Name the festival which is a celebration of Culture & Cuisine from different states of India, organized from 3rd - 15th Aug’15 in Delhi as a part of Independence Day celebrations?
A. IndianFest
B. Encore’15
C. Reprise’15
D. Bharat Parv
Answer: D. Bharat Parv
As part of these celebrations, the Ministry of Tourism is organizing the “Bharat Parv” comprising of State Centric Food Festivals along with cultural performances at prominent locations in Delhi in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Delhi Tourism, NDMC & several other agencies.
Question: With which rebel group India has signed a historic peace accord on 3rd Aug’15 that promises a return to normalcy in the Nagaland?
A. NSCN (IM)
B. NIG (IM)
C. NACN
D. NICN (IM)
Answer: A. NSCN (IM)
Centre signed a landmark peace accord with National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) at the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. On the occasion, NSCN (I-M) leader T Muivah said the accord has ushered in a new relationship between the Centre and the NSCN (I-M).
Question: Name the Indian gymnast who has clinched the women's vault bronze medal at the 6th Senior ART Gymnastics Asian Championships at Hiroshima on 3rd Aug’15?
A. Seema Chawla
B. Dipa Karmakar
C. Ritu Singh
D. Pooja Bedi
Answer: B. Dipa Karmakar
Chinese Yan Wang defended her title with 14.988 points followed by Japanese Sae Miyakawa with 14.812 points.
Question: Which state government will implement ‘Onion Mission’ in order to rein in the exorbitant price of onion in the state?
A. West Bengal
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Bihar
D. Odisha
Answer: D. Odisha
The government will set up 300 cold storage centres across Odisha in which about 25 lakh tonne of onion can be stored that will help in containing the price rise of onion.
Question: Which state’s chief minister will dedicate an innovative project known as “Thari Pension, Thare Pass’ on 4th Aug’15?
A. Rajasthan
B. Punjab
C. Gujarat
D. Haryana
Answer: D. Haryana
Under this project about ten lakh beneficiaries would get payment of social security pensions of July 2015 through banks or post offices directly into their accounts marking the successful completion of its first phase.
Question: Which political party’s 25 Member of Parliament (MPs) were suspended for five consecutive days for disrupting proceedings in the Lok Sabha House by the Speaker on 3rd Aug’15?
A. BJP
B. AIADMK
C. TMC
D. Congress
Answer: D. Congress
The suspended leaders were protesting against the government over the Lalit Modi and Vyapam scams. Taking tough action against the agitating members, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said they were suspended for persistently and willfully obstructing the House. She ruled that the 'named' members will not attend five sittings of the House.
Question: Name the programme that has been launched by the government to compete in the global market?
A. National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme
B. International Retail Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme
C. National Retailing Competitiveness Programme
D. National Servicing Competitiveness Programme
Answer: A. National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme.
Question: In which month will the Bengali Edition of Krishi Darshan Channel of Doordarshan be launched?
A. August’15
B. September’15
C. October’15
D. November’15
Answer: B. September’15
The Channel will cater to the needs of farmers and will provide necessary information relating to various aspects of rural life and professions in the State.
Question: Name the person elected as the new Chairman of the Life Insurance Council on 1st Aug’15?
A. K N Rai
B. S K Roy
C. Sushil Kumar
D. Rajesh Vadhera
Answer: B. S K Roy
Roy will head the three-member Executive Committee (EC), a key body of the Council, for a period of three years.
Question: Name the fully revamped IT application for the purpose of adoption, carings of children that became operational from 1st Aug’15?
A. CARINGS
B. CARNIGS
C. CARES
D. CARENGS
Answer: A. CARINGS
CARINGS is abbreviated as Child Adoption Resource Information & Guidance System. The completely revamped CARINGS will facilitate the adoption of maximum number of adoptable children and ensure a smoother adoption process by curbing undue delays. For hassle-free adoption, CARINGS will contain a centralized data bank of adoptable children and PAPs. Clear cut timelines for domestic and inter-country adoption have been laid down to ensure early deinstitutionalization of such children.
Question: Name the country that became the 206th member of the Olympic family after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved its inclusion?
A. Nepal
B. Trinidad Tobago
C. South Sudan
D. Bhutan
Answer: C. South Sudan
South Sudan was inducted as the latest member of the International Olympic Committee on 1st Aug’15 at committee’s ongoing annual meet at Kuala Lumpur.
Question: The new simplified “Guidelines Governing Adoption of Children 2015” notified by the Central Government on 17th July 2015 came into effect from _________.
A. 31st July’15
B. 1st Aug’15
C. 2nd Aug’15
D. 3rd Aug’15
Answer: B. 1st Aug’15
The new guidelines in adoption are intend to provide for more effective regulation for adoption of orphan, abandoned and surrendered children and would bring more transparency and efficiency in the adoption system.
Question: As per the report released in 68th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) on fuel used for cooking and lighting, which state had the highest use of LPG among rural households during 2011-12?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Jharkhand
C. Chhattisgarh
D. Kerala
Answer: A. Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu was followed by Kerala and Punjab. The use of LPG was least in Chhattisgarh (1.5% of households) followed by Jharkhand (2.9%) and Odisha (3.9%).
Question: Name the country that on 1st Aug’15 became the first-ever non-European member of the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN)?
A. India
B. China
C. Pakistan
D. Bangladesh
Answer: C. Pakistan
Pakistan thus became the first member of CERN among Asian countries and the first non-European member of this prestigious organization. The associate membership will open a new era of cooperation that will strengthen the long-term partnership between CERN and the Pakistani scientific community.
Question: The over 3-year-old ban on Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan on entering the Wankhede Stadium was lifted by the ___________.
A. Mumbai Cricket Association
B. Bombay High Court
C. Supreme Court
D. Govt. of Maharashtra
Answer: A. Mumbai Cricket Association
The Association had imposed the ban following a 2012 fracas involving the Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner and security personnel during an IPL match. MCA vice president Ashish Shelar said after the Association's meeting in Mumbai that it was decided that the ban imposed on IPL's Kolkata franchise owner Shah Rukh Khan should be lifted.
Question: Name the Indian champion who annexed the squash title in the 15,000 US Dollar Victorian Open WSA Event in Melbourne on 2nd Aug’15?
A. Joshna Chinappa
B. Dipika Pallikal
C. Saurav Ghosal
D. Anuroop B. S.
Answer: A. Joshna Chinappa
Joshna defeated second seeded Line Hansen of Denmark. It is Joshna's tenth WSA title, the last being the Richmond Open title win in April last year.
Question: By what percent India's gold imports shot up in the April-May’15 of the current fiscal due to weak prices globally and the easing of restrictions by the Reserve Bank?
A. 32%
B. 51%
C. 61%
D. 78%
Answer: C. 61%
India is the largest importer of gold, which mainly caters to the demand of the jewellery industry. Large imports of gold impact the country's current account deficit, which occurs when value of import of goods and services is more than its exports. The CAD in 2014-15 shrank to 1.3 per cent of GDP (USD 27.5 billion) from 1.7 per cent (USD 32.4 billion) in 2013-14. The Reserve Bank and the government have maintained that the CAD level is comfortable. In 2014-15, India imported 915.54 tonnes of gold as against 661.71 tonnes in the previous financial year.
Question: Name the country that has foiled a British Company’s bid to patent use of turmeric, pine bark and tea for treating hair loss and succeeded in protecting its traditional knowledge?
A. Sri Lanka
B. Indonesia
C. China
D. India
Answer: D. India
The UK based company Pangaea Laboratories Limited had filed patent application at European Patent office in February, 2011 on a medicinal composition containing turmeric, pine bark and green tea for treating hair loss. An official release said in New Delhi that the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), a Unit of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research filed pre-grant opposition along with prior-art evidences. It proved that turmeric, pine bark and green tea, are being used as a treatment for hair loss, since long in Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda and Unani. Till date CSIR-TKDL has achieved success in about 200 such cases without any cost.
Question: In which of the following citiy, Post offices remained open on 2nd Aug’15 (Sunday) as mark of respect for Late Former Prsident Dr Kalam?
A. New Delhi
B. Chandigarh
C. Jaipur
D. Pune
Answer: C. Jaipur
This decision was taken by the inspiring appeal by Dr Kalam not to declare holiday on his death rather work for one more day. All the subordinate office remained open and the Chief Post Master General and Director Post also attended the office. On 1st Aug’15 the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat also functioned as a tribute to the former President.
Question: Name the cricketer appointed as the brand ambassadors of the newly created National Kidney Fund by the Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena?
A. Muthaiya Muralitharan
B. T Dilshan
C. Dilhara Fernando
D. Kumar Sangakkara
Answer: A. Muthaiya Muralitharan & B. T Dilshan
Murlidharan and Dilshan’s appointment was announced by the President just before the start of a T20 match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
Question: Which country has detained 127 officials from its banking industry for their alleged involvement in corruption?
A. India
B. China
C. United States
D. Japan
Answer: B. China
They were accused of bribery, embezzlement, illegal lending and other illicit acts. China's massive anti-corruption campaign has led to thousands of arrests and convictions on graft charges so far.
Question: On 2nd Aug’15, which country released 163 Indian fishermen as goodwill gesture?
A. Sri Lanka
B. China
C. Pakistan
D. Iran
Answer: C. Pakistan
A Sindh government official said the detained fishermen were set free as a goodwill gesture following the last month's meeting between Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in Russia.
Question: Name the chairman of the 30-member Joint Committee of Parliament that is discussing the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Bill?
A. S S Ahluwalia
B. A S Nayar
C. B K Gaitonde
D. Sharad Pawar
Answer: A. S S Ahluwalia
According to the listed business of the Lok Sabha, the committee’s chairman S S Ahluwalia will move a motion on 3rd Aug’15 in the House for seeking further extension upto 7th of this month to submit its report. The Joint Committee of Parliament, which was constituted in last May for examining the controversial land acquisition bill, had been given a fresh extension till the first working day of first week of this month. This is the third extension sought by the Committee. It was originally mandated to table its report on the first day of the Monsoon session, which began on 21st July.
Question: What amount of capital would be infused in Public Sector banks by Indian Government over a period of four years to improve capital ratio and fight with rising bad loans?
A. 70,000 Crore
B. 1 Lakh Crore
C. 2 lakh Crore
D. 500 Crore
Answer: A. 70,000 Crore 
Question: How many Indian companies have been listed in the Forbes Asia Fabulous 50 companies?
A. 7
B. 10
C. 19
D. 23
Answer: B. 10
These 10 companies are HDFC Bank, TCS, HCL Tech, Aurobindo Pharma, Lupin, Sun Pharma, Motherson Sumi Systems, Tech Mahindra, Tata Motors and Titan.
Question: Name the mobile banking app of Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) launched primarily for “un-banked” regions?
A. Kotak Bharat
B. Bharat
C. Kotak India
D. IndianKotak
Answer: A. Kotak Bharat
It is the ‘inclusive digital banking’ app launched by KMB that is primarily targetted to benefit customers in the under-banked and un-banked regions, who can access its services in their preferred language. One major benefit of this app is that it requires no internet connectivity.
Question: Which city has won the bid to host 2022 Winter Olympic Games?
A. London
B. New Delhi
C. Beijing
D. Durban
Answer: C. Beijing
The Chinese capital beat Almaty, Kazakhstan in a secret ballot of 85 IOC members. Now Beijing will be the first city to host both the Summer and Winter Games. Beijing successfully hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008.
Question: Fourteen year old Master Prabhroop Sekhon has clinched two gold medals in 300 metre and 500 metre Roller Skating in the Special Olympics World Summer Games. Which city of India does he belong to?
A. Bokaro
B. Kolkata
C. Jodhpur
D. Lucknow
Answer: D. Lucknow
The event is being held at Los Angeles, USA. Sekhon is a student of ASHA School in Lucknow Cantt where he was coached and selected for various camps at State and National level as one amongst the 241 participants representing India.
Question: Which cricketer has received the Arjuna Award on 31st July’15 which was conferred on him last year?
A. Ravichandran Ashwin
B. M S Dhoni
C. Ravindra Jadeja
D. Virat Kohli
Answer: A. Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin was not present during the Award Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan on August 29, 2014 as he was a part of the India ODI team, which was touring England at that time.The bowler from Tamil Nadu has taken 124 wickets in 25 Tests, 139 in 99 ODIs and 26 wickets in 25 T20 internationals.
Question: As per the statement made by Minister of state for Finance Jayant Singh in the Lok Sabha how many women directors are there in listed companies of the country as on 27th July’15?
A. 267
B. 3785
C. 599
D. 1453
Answer: B. 3785
The Companies Act 2013 provides that every listed company having paid up share capital of 100 crore rupees or more or turnover of 300 crore rupees or more, shall appoint at least one women director.
Question: Which state government has instituted a youth award in the name of former President Dr Kalam?
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Kerala
C. Odisha
D. Meghalaya
Answer: A. Tamil Nadu
In a statement issued in Chennai, Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa has said the annual “Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Award” consisting 8 gram gold, Rs 5 Lakh cash and a citation would be given from this year onward on every Independence Day to a person from the state who works with exceptional merit in science, humanities and students welfare. She has also announced that Dr Kalam’s birthday on October 15th would be celebrated as the “Youth Revival Day”.
Question: As per the Wikileaks website, which country has been spying on Japanese Cabinet Officials, Banks and Companies, including the Mitsubishi Conglomerate?
A. China
B. India
C. Pakistan
D. United States
Answer: D. United States
Documents released by Wikileaks list 35 telephone numbers targeted for interception by the US National Security Agency (NSA). Wikileaks said the surveillance extends back at least eight years. Wikileaks has previously released files showing the US spied on Germany, France and Brazil - like Japan, all allies. There has been no comment from Japan on the latest claims.
Question: With which country India redrew maps at midnight on 1st August 2015 as 162 enclaves on the border got transferred to respective countries under the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement effected during Prime Minister's Narendra Modi visit to a country in June month?
A. Sri Lanka
B. Pakistan
C. Bangladesh
D. China
Answer: C. Bangladesh
111 Indian enclaves within Bangladesh merged with Bangladesh, and 51 Bangladeshi ones got merged with India. The transfer gave over 50,000 people citizenship of both countries, bringing them access to all legal rights and civic amenities. A joint survey conducted from 6th -16th July gave them choice to decide which country they want to live in. Those who decided to move have been promised safe and secure passage with personal belongings & movable property till November 30th this year. Ban on property sale imposed since 6th July will be lifted to allow those moving, to sell their land.
Question: Which day has been declared as National Handloom Day beginning from this year throughout the country?
A. 1st August
B. 2nd August
C. 10th August
D. 7th August
Answer: D. 7th August
The first National Handloom Day will be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai on 7th August.
Question: In which city the integrated underwater harbour defence and surveillance system was commissioned on 31st July’15 to strengthen security in the western coastline?
A. Mumbai
B. Kochi
C. Kachh
D. Pondicherry
Answer: B. Kochi
According to Defence sources, this system is first of its kind in the country and also part of Navy’s initiative to strengthen coastal security. The system is capable of detecting, identifying, tracking and generating warning for all types of surface and underwater threats to harbour security. It was designed by Israel Aerospace Industries and consists of advance coastal surveillance radars, sensors and sound navigation and ranging systems. Presence of divers and under water threats could be detected with the help of this automatic system. Such a system is fitted in over 150 locations across the world. Kochi is the first harbour in the country to commission this integrated surveillance system. It will be commissioned in other parts also in the later stage.
Question: 75th Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Udham Singh was observed on _______.
A. 30th July’15
B. 31st July’15
C. 1st Aug’15
D. 2nd Aug’15
Answer: B. 31st July’15
Udham Singh was a revolutionary and a brave hearted man known for assassinating Michael O'Dwyer on 13 March 1940 avenging the Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre. He was in Jallian wala Bagh and had seen the massacre. On July 31st 1940 he was hanged in England.
Question: On 31st July’15, Maharashtra govt. announces construction of 800 kms Nagpur-Mumbai expressway. This expressway will also be known as ___________.
A. Vidharbha Marg
B. Marathwada-Vidarbha Expressway
C. Communication Super Expressway
D. Trade Silk Road
Answer: C. Communication Super Expressway
This project would be completed in coming five years and the travel time between the state capital and second capital would be brought down from 14 hours to 10 hours. This super-expressway will become a road to development for the backwards regions of northern Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha in the state.
Question: Which bank has acquired the Sharekhan.com- broking and trading company?
A. HSBC
B. BNP Paribas
C. Deutsche Bank
D. ING Vysya
Answer: B. BNP Paribas
Mumbai based Sharekhan has been valued at Rs. 2200 Crore.
Question: Name the state that has attracted maximum FDI flows during 2014-15?
A. Gujarat
B. Karnataka
C. Delhi NCR
D. Maharashtra
Answer: C. Delhi NCR
The top five states to attract FDI flows in 2014-15 were Delhi NCR, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Gujarat.
Question: Name the country from where the maximum equity flows came into India during 2014-15?
A. Mauritius
B. Japan
C. USA
D. China
Answer: A. Mauritius
The top ten countries from where the equity flows came are Mauritius, Japan, USA, Germany, France, Russia, China, South Korea, Canada and Australia.
Question: What percent of FDI equity inflows rise during April-May’15 period?
A. 14%
B. 29%
C. 36%
D. 40%
Answer: D. 40%
In the first two months of the current fiscal - April to May 2015, the FDI equity flow was 7.4 billion U.S. dollars, an increase of 40 per cent as compare to 5.3 billion U.S. dollars received during the same period in April-May 2014.
Question: What is the name of the project that is an ambitious project of the Union Finance Ministry to bring into net black money hoarders and tax evaders by using optimum technology?
A. Project Insight
B. Project Black Money
C. Project Money Laundering
D. Project Monitoring
Answer: A. Project Insight
For this project ministry recently floated a tender worth over Rs. 150 crore to buy data analytics software and related infrastructure. It will primarily track the Permanent Account Numbers (PAN) being quoted on financial transactions and tally them with income tax filings.
Question: Name the online payment site won the sponsorship rights of Board of Control for Cricket in India for Rs. 203 Crore?
A. Freecharge
B. PayTm
C. PayU
D. PayPal
Answer: B. PayTm
Question: Who is the author of the book ‘Sleeping on Jupiter’ shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2015?
A. Kiran Bedi
B. Jhumpa Lahiri
C. Anuradha Roy
D. Aseem Rai
Answer: C. Anuradha Roy
The book is based on the malaise of sexual abuse in India.
Question: Name the cyclonic storm that hit the Bangladesh coast resulting into high alert in West Bengal and Odisha?
A. Great Bhola Cyclone
B. Hooghly River Cyclone
C. Komen Cyclone
D. Nina Cyclone
Answer: C. Komen Cyclone
Cyclonic storm named Komen over the northeast Bay of Bengal is moving northwestwards. Met department said the cyclonic storm has made landfall and is in the process of crossing Bangladesh coast between Hatia and Sandwip. Northern part of the cloud band already lies over land.
Question: In which country, India has given a grant of 50,000 U.S. dollars to the Satyajit Ray Film and Study Centre for conducting lectures, workshops and film screenings?
A. UK
B. USA
C. Russia
D. China
Answer: B. USA
India has given a grant of $50,000 to the Satyajit Ray Film and Study Centre at the University of California, Santa Cruz, USA for conducting lectures, workshops and film screenings. Likewise, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Washington, D.C. has been given 70,000 U.S. dollars to support a lecture series on rising India. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj gave this information in the Rajya Sabha on 30th July’15.
Question: What increase has been observed in the country’s forest cover?
A. 1435 sq km
B. 5871 sq km
C. 2399 sq km
D. 3741 sq km
Answer: B. 5871 sq km
Quoting the latest report on the state of forests in India, Environment and Forest Minister Prakash Javadekar on 30th July’15 said that the total forest cover in the country is 697,898 square kilometres which is over 21 per cent of its total geographical area. Among the metropolitan cities, Delhi tops with 180 square kilometres of forests followed by Bengaluru with 97 square kilometres, Hyderabad with 88 square kilometres. Mumbai has over 86 square kilometres of forest area while Chandigarh‘s forest cover stands at 34 square kilometres.
Question: Name the application launched by IITM to enhance public awareness on the hazards of air pollution?
A. SAFAR
B. SAFAR-AIR
C. TROPICAL
D. TROPICAL-AIR
Answer: B. SAFAR-AIR
The application provides site-specific information on air quality and the weather forecast for the next 24 hours in Delhi, Pune and Mumbai.
Question: Which automaker company becomes the world’s biggest automaker in the first half of the year 2015?
A. Volkswagen
B. Toyota
C. Hyundai
D. General Motors
Answer: A. Volkswagen
Volkswagen surpassed Toyota as the world's largest automaker in the first half of 2015, fulfilling a long-held goal, but the achievement came at a cost. Volkswagen sold 5.04 million vehicles in the first six months of the year, edging Toyota's 5.02 million.
Question: World Hepatitis Day was observed on ______.
A. 25th July
B. 28th July
C. 30th July
D. 1st August
Answer: B. 28th July
The theme for this year was ‘Prevent Hepatitis, Act Now’.
Question: With effect from which day, the Government has finalised arrangements to extend and implement the e-Tourist Visa facility to the passport holders of People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong Administrative Region and Macau Special Administrative Region?
A. 1st Aug’15
B. 31st July’15
C. 30th July’15
D. 29th July’15
Answer: C. 30th July’15
The e-Tourist Visa scheme launched by the Government of India on the November 27, 2015 has been extended to 77 countries/territories so far. The total number of countries/territories covered under the e-Tourist Visa scheme will go up from 74 to 77, with the inclusion of these countries/territories.
Question: For which programme Patna High Court has directed the Bihar government not to go for audio-video recording and its display which aimed at preparing vision document on development for the state till 2025?
A. Badh Chala Bihar
B. Bihar Vikas Path
C. Sabka Bihar
D. Viksit Bihar
Answer: A. Badh Chala Bihar
A division bench of Chief Justice L Narsimha Reddy and Justice Anjana Mishra issued the directive to Bihar government after hearing a PIL filed in this regard.
Question: In Pakistan, the chief of banned outfit Malik Ishaq has been killed in an encounter with the police in Punjab province. He was the chief of which group?
A. Jaish-e-Jihaad
B. Lashkar-i-Jhangvi
C. Lashkar-e-Taiba
D. Al-Qaida
Answer: B. Lashkar-i-Jhangvi
Ishaq was on a US list of global terrorists and the group he founded has claimed responsibility for the deaths of hundreds of civilians. The police said Ishaq's two sons and eleven top members of the group linked to al-Qaeda were also killed in the encounter in Muzaffargarh district. Ishaq has been accused of masterminding dozens of attacks against the minority Shia community.
Question: On 29th July’15, The Supreme Court confirmed its decision of commuting the death sentence to life imprisonment of three persons convicted of killing former Prime Minister _________.
A. Indira Gandhi
B. Lal Bahadur Shashtri
C. Rajiv Gandhi
D. Sanjay Gandhi
Answer: C. Rajiv Gandhi
The apex Court dismissed the curative petition filed by the Centre which was seeking a review of the decision in February last year. In February last year, the Court had commuted the death sentence of three persons - Santhan, Murugan and Perarivalan, citing the 11-year delay in deciding their mercy petitions. The three convicts are lodged in a Vellore prison. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on 21st May’1991 in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
Question: Which of the following persons have won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for the year 2015?
A. Kailash Satyarthi
B. Sanjiv Chaturvedi
C. Anshu Gupta
D. Anu Kapoor
Answer: B. Sanjiv Chaturvedi and C. Anshu Gupta.
Sanjiv Chaturvedi, former Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at AIIMS and Anshu Gupta, founder of NGO Goonj are among the people who have been awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for 2015. In 2014, Chaturvedi was relieved from the additional charge of CVO, although he continued to retain the Deputy Director post at AIIMS. He had alleged that his removal from the CVO post was a result of campaign by corrupt officials.
Question: The Union Cabinet has approved amendments proposed by Rajya Sabha Select Committee on Goods and Services Tax, GST Constitution Amendment Bill. For how many years, the amendments include compensation to the states for any revenue loss due to introduction of GST?
A. 3 years
B. Upto 5 years
C. 5 years
D. Upto 10 years
Answer: C. 5 years
The amendments include compensation to the states for 5 years instead of upto 5 years for any revenue loss due to introduction of GST.
Question: Name the World’s largest flower bloomed for the first time in 5 years in the fourth week of July 2015 at the Jindai botanical gardens in Tokyo, Japan?
A. Amorphophallus Titanum
B. Rafflesia Arnoldi
C. Corypha Umbraculifera
D. Pando
Answer: A. Amorphophallus Titanum
It is commonly called the corpse flower because it smells like rotting meat that helps attract pollinators such as beetles and flies. Moreover, it only last for few days.
Question: Name the district located in Telangana state where a village recently came to news for discovery of numerous burial sites belonging to the Megalithic period?
A. Guntur
B. Medak
C. Khammam
D. Anantpur
Answer: B. Medak
A tiny village located at Siddipet mandal in Medak district where 30 megalithic burials, believed to be dated between 1,000 B.C. and 200 A.D. were unearthed.
Question: What percent growth registered in Foreign Tourist Arrival in 2014 over 2013 and 2012 years?
A. 7.46
B. 7.1
C. 7.68
D. 10.2
Answer: D. 10.2
The growth registered in the final figures of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during last three years was better than the provisional estimates of FTAs except for the year 2012. The Growth rate on 2012 and 2013 are 4.3% and 5.9% respectively.
Question: What position has been secured by India's under-21 women hockey team at the Volvo Invitational tournament?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: C. Third
Question: In which state High Court has permitted a transgender to participate in physical test for the post of Sub-Inspector?
A. Karnataka
B. Maharashtra
C. Tamil Nadu
D. Delhi
Answer: C. Tamil Nadu
In an interim order, the court on 26th July’15 directed Tamil Nadu Uniform Services Recruitment Board to permit K Prathika Yashini to go through the process of physical test scheduled on August 5. Passing the interim order, the bench held that she does qualify for the horizontal reservation stipulated by Supreme Court. The court said, she should go through the selection process, and that results will be subject to the result of the writ petition - meaning her eligibility and final selection would hinge on the outcome of the case. Yashini had first approached the court for permission to take part in written exam held in May this year. The physical test is the second stage of selection process.
Question: For how many days Government has announced mourning throughout the country as a mark of respect to the former President APJ Abdul Kalam?
A. 1
B. 3
C. 5
D. 7
Answer: D. 7
During the period of the mourning, the national flag will fly at half-mast on all the buildings throughout the country where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment.
Question: On 27th July’15 in which city former President APJ Abdul Kalam passed away?
A. Bengaluru
B. Shillong
C. Guwahati
D. Imphal
Answer: B. Shillong
He died at the age of 84 and known as People's President, Dr Kalam breathed his last at a hospital in Meghalaya's capital at 7.45 PM. The former President was rushed to the Bethany hospital after he collapsed during a lecture in the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. During his tenure as Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister from July 1992 to December 1999, he led the weaponisation of strategic missile systems and the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, which made India a nuclear weapon state. In 1997, Dr Kalam was conferred Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian awards.
Question: On 28th July’15 former cricketer Clive Rice died. He played cricket for which country?
A. West Indies
B. Australia
C. Zimbabwe
D. South Africa
Answer: D. South Africa
Former all-rounder Clive Rice, the first post-apartheid captain of South Africa, died in Johannerburg. An official from national cricket association of South Africa said that Rice, who had been suffering from a brain tumour, played most of his cricket during South Africa's 20-year isolation from the international game. When South Africa returned to the international fold in November 1991, Rice was appointed captain of a team which played three one-day internationals (ODIs) in India.
Question: Indian Post to Release Series of Stamps on Well Known __________.
A. Actors, Writers, Freedom Fighters, Politicians and Dancers
B. Doctors, Engineers, Writers, Painters and Dancers
C. Singers, Writers, Freedom Fighters, Painters and Dancers
D. Singers, Dancers, Architects, Martyrs, Writers and Freedom Fighters
Answer: C. Singers, Writers, Freedom Fighters, Painters and Dancers
The philatelic advisory committee which met under the Chairmanship of Minister for Communication & IT, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad 27th July’15 also decided that stamps with picture postcards may be release on tourist places in India such as Taj Mahal, Ajanta and Ellora, Belur Math, Khajuraho etc.
Question: Name the company that is bidding adieu its social network product which had launched four years ago hoping it would become a serious rival to Facebook?
A. Microsoft
B. Google
C. Yahoo
D. Rediff
Answer: B. Google
Google is bidding adieu to Google Plus, a social network that the American search engine had launched four years ago hoping it would become a serious rival to Facebook. The company announced its most drastic step for breaking up Google Plus on 27thJuly’15. The reason being it did not perform up to the mark as expected.
Question: On which automobile company, Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a penalty of 420 crore rupees for unfair trade practices?
A. Hyundai Motor India
B. TATA Motors
C. Mahindra Automobiles
D. Renault India
Answer: A. Hyundai Motor India
The Commission found that the company is guilty of indulging in anti-competitive practices as it did not make genuine spare parts freely available in the open market.
Question: In which country the political parties have agreed to remove the word “Secularism” from their new constitution?
A. India
B. Cuba
C. Pakistan
D. Nepal
Answer: D. Nepal
A majority of people wanted the word to be replaced by "Hindu" or "religious freedom," according to Nepal’s Constituent Assembly. Nepal was declared a secular country in 2007 after Nepal’s hardcore Unified Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist joined mainstream politics after a decade-long insurgency that killed over 13,000 people.
Question: Name the city become the first city to start online police verification for passport?
A. Jaipur
B. Delhi
C. Bengaluru
D. Panaji
Answer: C. Bengaluru
The police officer will match biometric data, photo, and address of the applicant in the NPR, Aadhar data and check criminal antecedent on CCTNS, a comprehensive database for crimes and criminals that connects around 14,000 police stations across the country.
Question: On 28th July’15 which country has signed an agreement with Google Corporation to place 13 high-altitude balloons over the country that will provide island-wide internet connection within the next few months?
A. India
B. Bangladesh
C. Pakistan
D. Sri Lanka
Answer: D. Sri Lanka
The project is also expected to provide free Wi-Fi connectivity across the country. The agreement was signed at the office of Sri Lankan Prime Minister in Colombo. Google will install high altitude 'floating telecom tower' balloons which will provide full broadband internet coverage. The Google Loon balloons have transceivers which can connect to cell phone networks filling gaps in their networks. This will be a boon for people living or travelling in sparsely populated areas like mountains and deserts.
Question: On which country’s request NATO is holding rare emergency meeting to discuss Turkey's campaign against the Islamic State group and Kurdish militants?
A. United States
B. India
C. Israel
D. Turkey
Answer: D. Turkey
The meeting in Brussels has been called by Turkey, which has become involved in the Syrian conflict in recent days. The country, which had previously been reluctant to intervene, has launched raids against IS in Syria and Kurdish PKK guerrillas in northern Iraq. The Turkish strikes followed a wave of attacks by militants on Turkish soil.
Question: Name the mission that will be renamed after former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam?
A. Rashtriya Pratibha Khoj Abhiyan
B. Rashtriya Vigyan Abhiyan
C. Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan
D. Rashtriya Raksha Abhiyan
Answer: C. Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan
Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan focuses on connecting school-based knowledge to life outside the school and making the learning of science and mathematics a joyful and meaningful activity. It also aims at nurturing a spirit of inquiry and creativity and the effective use of technology amongst children.

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

CURRENT AFFAIRS SEPTEMBER 2015 (123 Questions)

Question: Which company on 28th September 2015 signed a strategic pact with UAE’s EDIC for collaboration in Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul category?

A. Reliance Defence Limited

B. Bharat Dynamics

C. Bharat Electronics

D. TATA Advanced Systems

Answer: Reliance Defence Limited

Explanation: Reliance Defence Limits has signed a strategic pact with EDIC for MRO category according to which the firms will discover the prospect for manufacturing and building capabilities in defence vehicles, aviation and associated areas, defence equipment and armament manufacturing, defence electronics, commercial and naval ships.

The pact aims to create synergy to lower operational costs and leverage capabilities. RDL was established as a subsidiary of RIL and has close to 11 subsidiaries in niche segment sectors. Emirates Defence Industries Company is the premier UAE integrated national defence services provider.

Question: TCS has announced a new partnership with which firm to provide the world’s first neural automation system which automates and optimises IT operations and processes of an enterprise, on 29th September 2015?

A. Nationwide Building Group

B. Nationwide Building Society

C. Nation Building Board

D. None of the above

Answer: Nationwide Building Society

Explanation: Nationwide Building Society has selected SaaS platform Ignio which is the world’s first neural automation system for enterprise IT has part of the transformation of technology and operations. Nationwide Building Society delivers wide range of products to customers and works to increase strength of digital solutions. Moving services to a digital platform is a massive priority for Nationwide.

Ignite is based on the human neural system as well as machine learning and digital technologies to improve IT operations and processes of enterprise, reducing operational risks and increasing speed to enhance user experience.

Question: Which two companies are injecting fresh capital into the largest mobile payment and commerce platform, Paytm?

A. Alibaba and Ant Financial

B. Baidu and Ant Financial

C. Alibaba and Edelweiss

D. None of the above

Answer: Alibaba and Ant Financial

Explanation: Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba Group and finance unit Ant Financial Services Group are including fresh capital into Paytm, which is the largest mobile and commerce platform in a strategic investment. The size of the stake being acquired by the companies has not been publicly discloseD. Ant Financial has currently acquired 25% of Paytm parent firm One 97 Communications in February.

New funds are given for Paytm to expand mobile commerce and payment system in the nation. This e-commerce firm currently has greater than 100 Paytm Wallet users carrying out over 75 million transactions within the month. Both companies, Alibaba and ATM are looking to encase on opportunities in India’s largest growing mobile e-commerce marketplace and digital finance sector.

Question: Infogain, a San Francisco based IT consulting firm has indicated it will acquire IT operations of which company, on 29th September 2015?

A. BlueTech

B. BluestarInfoTech

C. Blue Star Info

D. None of the above

Answer: BluestarInfoTech

Explanation: Infogain to acquire IT operations of Bluestar Info Tech Infogain is all set to acquire IT operations of BSIL in a deal estimated to be around INR 180 crore to boost digital offerings in areas such as SAP and cloud as well as mobility and analytics. This acquisition follows an investment of USD 63 million in Infogain by ChrysCapital.

This will accelerate cross business synergies and the combined entity will generate a revenue of USD 150 million and around 4,000 employers across 8 global delivery locations. ChrysCapital currently manages total funds of USD 2.5 billion across 6 funds. In 2014, ChrysCapital has purchased large minority stake in LiquidHub.

Question: e-Commerce major Snapdeal has attained minority stake in which grocery delivery service from India on 29th September 2015?

A. Pepper Tap

B. BigBasket

C. MyGrahak

D. AaramShop

Answer: Pepper Tap

Explanation: e-Commerce major Snapdeal has acquired a minority stake in hyperlocal grocery delivery service Pepper Tap. It has led the USD 36 million funding rounD. Funding will be employed for expanding Pepper Tap’s presence to over 75 cities from present 18. Pepper Tap co-founder and CEO is Navneet Singh. Pepper Tap is looking to raise USD 20 million and current round of funding saw finances flowing in from Sequoia India and SAIF Partners and investors like Ru-net, JAFCO, and BeeNext.

Grocery constitutes 59% of retail GDP in IndiA. Snapdeal has recently acquired startup Freecharge as well as MartMobi, Letsgomo Labs and Reduce DatA. Founded in the year 2010, it has over 90 million registered users and counts SoftBank, Alibaba, eBay and Foxconn among its investors. Pepper Tap gives customers the ability to select from 15,000 products across categories like bath and hygiene products, gorceries and generates 20,000 average transactions every day.

Question: Which Olympic medalist and India boxer announced her retirement after the Rio Olympics?

A. Aruna Mishra

B. Pinki Jagra

C. Kavita Goyat

D. Mary Kom

Answer: Mary Kom

Explanation: MC Mary Kom announced the decision to quit after the 2016 Rio Olympics. Mary Kom was born in 1983 in Manipur. She is a 5 time World Amateur Boxing Champion.The first Indian woman boxer to get a Gold Medal in the Asian Games 2014 in Incheon, South Korea, she is also a bronze medalist from the 2012 Summer Olympics. Mary Kom is supported by Olympic quest as well.

Question: By how many basis points did RBI cut the rate on 29th September 2015?

A. 25

B. 50

C. 75

D. None of the above

Answer: 50

Explanation: Central Bank governor Raghuram Rajan has cut the rate by 50 basis points. Most economists had predicted a quarter cut in rates. This is the biggest move since the 2009 international recession and RBI also engaged with the ministry regarding reform of the central bank to establish a monetary policy committed to set rates. In another positive sign, the largest state owned bank SBI indicated it would cut main lending rate by 0.4 percentage points. Focus should be on bringing inflation to around 5% by March 2017.

Question: World Heart Day has been celebrated on ____ September.

A. 27th

B. 28th

C. 29th

D. 30th

Answer: 29th

Explanation: World Heart Day commenced in 2000. The aim of this day is to educate people across the world regarding heart diseases and strokes which are the leading cause of death leading to loss of 17.3 million lives every year on an average. This annual day reflects key issues and topics pertaining to heart health. This year (2015) them is creation of heart healthy environments. Environmental factors such as availability of nutritious food or smoke free zones can help individuals to make healthy choices for their heart. At least 80% of the premature deaths from CVD could be avoided if 4 main risk factors are controlled namely usage of tobacco, unearthly food, lack of physical activity and alcohol over consumption. CVD is the world’s number one killer right now.

Question: NDMA recently celebrated which formation day on 28th September 2015?

A. 10th

B. 12th

C. 14th

D. 11th

Answer: 11th

Explanation: On this day, Addl. Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr. P. K Mishra while presiding as the Chief Guest for Valedictory session, praised the NDMA for relief and rehab efforts in Kashmir and quake hit Nepal. This was followed by technical sessions to examine issues pertaining to four major calamities, namely, cyclone, earthquake, floods and landslides. The 11th Formation Day was observed at Vigyan Bhawan marketing the completion of 10 years of efforts to strengthen and improve disaster risk reduction.

Question: Who has taken over as AOC of Air Force Station Chandigarh on 28th September 2015?

A. Arun Saklani

B. S. K. Indoria

C. Rancher Singh

D. R. S Bedi

Answer: Arun Saklani

Explanation: Sakhalin took over from air commodore S. K. Indoria who will now be posted to Central Air CommanD. He was commissioned as Pilot in transport stream of IAF in June 1980s. He is an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and a qualified flying instructor who has flown over 5500 hours on AN-32 and Boeing-737. A chief flying instructor in a training establishment, Saklani has commanded a transport squadron at a busy transport base in East. The air commodore was director transport operations at Air HQ before taking over as air officer commanding 12Wing, AF. He has been honoured with the Vayu Sena Medal.

Question: Former President APJ Abdul Kalam’s grand nephew has joined the BJP. Name him.

A. Raza Salim

B. Ahmed Salim

C. Sheikh Salim

D. None of the above

Answer: Sheikh Salim

Explanation: Late President A P J Abdul Kalam's grandnephew Sheikh Salim joined BJP following the burial services for the ex-president in Rameshwaram. He is an importer from the United States, as per trade sources. He joined the party in the presence of Amit Shah and Tamil Nadu BJP vice-president M. Chakravarthy.

Question: Which former Real Madrid and Spain midfielder passed away on 28th September 2015?

A. Sergio Ramos

B. Gareth Bale

C. Cristiano Ronaldo

D. Ignacio Zoco

Answer: Ignacio Zoco

Explanation: Ex Real Madrid and Spain midfielder Ignacio Zoco, who dominated La Liga in the 1960s and the Spanish side that won the 1964 European Championship, died on 28th September aged 76. He spent 12 years with Real and made 434 competitive appearances. He helped the club to win 1 European Cup, 7 La Liga titles and 2 Spanish cups. Zoco spent 12 seasons with Real, making 434 competitive appearances and helping the club win one European Cup, seven La Liga titles and two Spanish Cups. He played a total of 25 times for Spain during the 1960s.

Question: One of the oldest and longest serving NE legislators passed away on 26th September 2015. Name him.

A. A. B. Lyngdoh

B. T.G. Lyngodh

C. H. S. Lyngdoh

D. None of the above

Answer: H. S. Lyngdoh

Explanation: Meghalaya’s oldest serving legislator who served for the longest period, Hoping Stone Lyngdoh has passed away on 26 September 2015 in Shillong at the age of 86. He was representing the Nongstoin constituency of West Khasi Hills district in the state legislative Assembly and he was the president of the Hill State Peoples Democratic Party. He has been a legislator from the time of inception of the state in 1972 to his death. Prior to the formation of MeghalayA. he was a legislator in the United Assam Legislative Assembly. He has never been defeated in his legislative career. He has also worked as a school teacher, social worker and agriculturalist. He fought against uranium mining in the state.

Question: Realty portal Housing dot com has appointed which executive as Vice President of new real estate projects division w.e.f 28th September 2015?

A. Rahul Yadav

B. Keerthi Kiran

C. Jyoti Kiran

D. None of the above

Answer: Keerthi Kiran

Explanation: Real estate portal Housing Dot Com has announced that Keerthi Kiran has been appointed Vice President of its fresh real estate projects unit. He has served in various capacities at the portal for 2 years now. Keerthi will report to Housing.com's Chief Business Officer, Jason Kothari. He holds a B.Tech in engineering from IIT Bombay. Housing dot com has more than 2550 employees spread over 50 cities in the nation.

Question: Aluminium major NALCO will invest INR 65,000 crore to launch projects and develop the power and mining sector. What record profit has this PSU attained in August 2015?

A. 50% increase in profit

B. 100% increase in profit

C. 105% increase in profit

D. 106% increase in profit

Answer: 106% increase in profit

Explanation: Boosted by 106% increase in profit in 2014-2015, NALCO is set to make an investment of INR 65,000 crore to launch key projects and develop the power and mining sector. The company recorded a profit of Rs.1322 crore in 2014-2015 fiscal against Rs.642 crore during the 2013-2014. In the present fiscal, NALCO targets to raise its total metal sales to 3.80 lakh tonnes from 3.26 lakh tonnes during 2014-2015. Numerous projects will be carried out through these funds, including a green-field aluminium smelter abroaD. The current CMD of NALCO is T. K. ChanD. NALCO is proposing to set up smelter plants with investment of INR 20,000 crore and is exploring Oman, Iran and Indonesia for this purpose. Though power is cheap in Oman and Iran, abundant coal is available at low cost in IndonesiA. Port facilities would also be a major factor, according to Chand.

Question: Government of India has launched which following initiatives on National Tourism Day observed on 27th September 2015?

A. Medical Wellness and Tourism Promotion Board

B. Ashok Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Management CoE

C. Tourism Vision Document

D. All of the above

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: Numerous initiatives launched on World Tourism Day

The following initiatives have been launched on World Tourism Day:

- Medical Wellness and Tourism Promotion board chaired by Union Tourism Minister 

- Ashok Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Centre of Excellence 

- Tourism Vision Document 2030 commissioned by Experience India Society and put together by KMPG 

- Launch of Ministry of Tourism Bilingual website including web based e-Recognition System 

- Audio Visual Presentation Introduction to India 

A seminar was also held on the theme of World Tourism Day 2015. The theme for the day was “One Billion Tourist, One Billion Opportunity” with the following panelists- Vikram Oberoi, Subhash Goyal, Atul Bhatnagar.

Question: Which Joint Exercise will be conducted between India and Sri Lanka for improving cooperation and interoperability on 29th September 2015?

A. Dost Shakti

B. Varuna

C. Mitra Shakti

D. None of the above

Answer: Mitra Shakti

Explanation: Continuing the series of Joint Exercise between India and Sri LankA. Exercise Mitra Shakti 2015 will be conducted at Aundh Camp, Pune on 29th September 2015. This marks the third joint training exercise between the armies of the two countries. The aim of the exercise is sharing military practices and promoting deep military to military relations by developing joint strategies to share expertise. The confidence building exercise will take place for 14 days.

Question: Which world number one team has won their sixth title at the Guangzhou Open 2015?

A. Sania Mirza and Leander Paes

B. Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis

C. Sania Mirza and Maria Sharapova

D. Sania Mirza and Serena Williams

Answer: Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis

Explanation: Reigning World Number 1 champions Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis have won their sixth title of the year at the Guangzhou Open on 27th September 2015. The top seeded players beat Xu Shilin and You Xiaodi 6-3, 6-1 in the final to win their second WTA title in a row. They did not drop a single set on their way to the title. This is Mirza’s seventh title in 2015 and her sixth with Hingis. Sania and Hingis have now won six of 13 events they have played since March -- Indian Wells, Miami, Charleston, Wimbledon, the US Open and Guangzhou. They have an amazing 42-7 win-loss record together.

Question: Brazil has pledged to slash GHG emissions by what percent by 2030?

A. 43 percent

B. 42 percent

C. 41 percent

D. 40 percent

Answer: 43 percent

Explanation: Brazil pledged to slash GHG emissions by 43% by 2030 as part of contribution to United Nations Climate Agreement and reduction from past efforts combating deforestation will help in the attainment of the target. Brazil President Dilma Rousseff presented the pledge at the UNGA in NYC noting the targets are more ambitious than that of developed nation and the country will need no external help to meet them. Leading researchers have estimated legal deforestation could be carried out in a massive area of 100 MHA in Brazil even then.

Question: Union Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar on 27th September 2015 has discussed the need to promote which type of credit?

A. Solar credit

B. Green credit

C. Carbon credit

D. Oxygen credit

Answer: Green credit

Explanation: Union Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar has spoken about the need to promote green credit rather than carbon credit at the Second Meeting of the Business Dialogue for COP21 under UNFCC. Aim is to ensure polluters do not get away with it through payment for carbon emissions. World should incentivise green growth activities as Green Credit rather than Carbon Credit Mechanism which provides a way out for emitters to get away with having polluted the environment. Demand supply mismatch and low admission for emission reduction will lead to slowdown of Clean Development Mechanism market.

Question: Which India governor passed away on 26th September 2015?

A. Syed Ahmed

B. Ram Nath Kovind

C. Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa

D. Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya

Answer: Syed Ahmed

Explanation: Governor of Manipur Dr. Syed Ahmed passed away on 26th September 2015. Dedicated to helping the advancement of minorities in Maharashtra and issues facing homeless and slum dwellers, he worked hard in this capacity as Minister for Housing, Slum Improvement, House Repairs and Reconstructions in State Government. He also worked to streamline the Haj pilgrimage process as the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Haj Committee. A scholar and a poet, he was known for his efforts towards poverty alleviation in the nation.

Question: Who was appointed as CEO of VW Group on 25th September 2015?

A. Donald Trump

B. Martin Winterkorn

C. Matthias Muller

D. None of the above

Answer: Matthias Muller

Explanation: Matthias Muller was appointed as CEO of VW group succeeding Martin Winterkorn who resigned following the diesel emissions scandal. Muller is presently Chairman of Porsche AG and board member of VW AG. He will continue to head VW till the end of February 2020. Muller commenced his professional career with AUDI AG, a member of the VW Group. He became Head of the Systems Analysis Division in the 1980s at Ingolstadt. He later worked for product management at Audi AG, SEAT and Lamborghini. He moved to Wolfsburg heading product management at VW Group and the brand in 2007. He became General Representative of VW Group after this.

Question: Who has been appointed on 25th September 2015 as Chairman of Bhakra Beas Management Board?

A. T. K. Sharma

B. S. K. Sharma

C. A. B. Agrawal

D. T. B. Agrawal

Answer: S. K. Sharma

Explanation: S. K. Sharma was appointed as Chairman of Bhakra Beas Management Board w.e.f 25th September 2015, succeeding A.B. Agrawal, the chairman of a period for 5 years. Sharma is a civil engineering graduate from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh. He joined the irrigation and water resources department of Haryana in 1980 as a sub divisional officer. He has monitored several regulation related hydraulic systems, pump housing systems, canal and drainage networks as well as NABARD projects.

Question: Vedas date back to which period, according to Sanskrit scholars at DU Sanskrit Department?

A. 3000 BC

B. 4000 BC

C. 5000 BC

D. 6000 BC

Answer: 6000 BC

Explanation: Vedas date back to 6000 BC, 4500 years older than previously thought. Vedic civilisation has proved to be more ancient than even the Indus Valley civilisation. Previously, India and European historians had seen the Vedas as dating back to 1500 BC and the Harappan civilisation as around 2500 to 1800 BC. This made the crux of the theory that Aryans were migrants to IndiA. Present claim is that Vedas pre-date Harappan civilisation making Aryans ancestors of Hindus.

Question: Fossils of a giant herbivorous dinosaur have been unearthed in Australia on 26th September 2015. These fossils date back to how many years ago?

A. 500 million years ago

B. 300 million years ago

C. 100 million years ago

D. 104 million years ago

Answer: 104 million years ago

Explanation: A giant herbivore dinosaur fossil dating back to more than 100 million years has been found in Australia and is believed to be from the Austrosaurus mckillopi found at Clutha Station in Queensland, AustraliA. This species was a herbivorous dinosaur that dwelt on lanD. It grew up 15 m in length with barrel like body and 4 pillar like legs. Bones found are approximately 104 million years old.

Question: Which two countries have decided to take swift action on elephant conservation on September 26th, 2015?

A. China and the UK

B. Japan and the US

C. China and the US

D. Japan and the UK

Answer: China and the US

Explanation: Both China and the US have taken swift action to prevent elephants from poaching crisis and placed a near complete ban on ivory imports and exports. China has announced a ban on domestic ivory trade. It is estimated 35,000 elephants are killed every year which equals 1 in every 15 minutes for ivory trade. Steps will be taken by both nations to halt commercial trade of ivory. China is currently the largest market in the world for both legal and illegal ivory. US is one of the world’s top markets for ivory.

Question: India has announced an ambitious INR 10,000 crore plan to transform which part of the country?

A. Dadra and Nagra Haveil

B. Daman and Diu

C. Lakshwadeep

D. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Explanation: India has formed an ambitious INR 10,000 crore plan for transforming Andaman and Nicobar islands into the first maritime hub of the country. It will create a base for infrastructure including expanded dry dock and ship repair facilities in Port Blair. The plan also includes protection of Jarawa inhabitants while improving the tourism potential for attractions such as mud volcanoes and limestone caves. A 15 year perspective plan developed for shipping and port infrastructure on the islands. Safe berthing and docking capacity facilities will also be improved in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. GoI also sanctioned an INR 50 crore project on the development of a sea route from Port Blair to Baratang, one of the islands and home to the mud volcanoes. 23 sites has been discovered for port development with 7 of these being small facilities. The islands are a chain of 572 of which slightly more than 30 are inhabiteD. The islands are 0.2% of the land mass of the country and provide for 30% of 200 nautical mile EEZ.

Question: Which former CM of Manipur joined BJP on 26th September 2015?

A. Radhabinod Koijam

B. Okram Joy Singh

C. Yumnam Joykumar Singh

D. None of the above

Answer: Radhabinod Koijam

Explanation: Former Manipur CM Radhabinod Koijam has joined BJP’s Manipur unit along with former Manipur People's Party (MPP) president Okram Joy Singh and former DGP Yumnam Joykumar Singh. Next general assembly in the states are likely to be held in 2017.

Question: US airlines will commence with the testing of a new NASA developed software designed to save time, cut GHG emissions and more. What is the name of this software?

A. Traffic Aware Planner/ TAP

B. Traffic Aware Schedule/TAS

C. Traffic Aware System/TAS

D. None of the above

Answer: Traffic Aware Planner/ TAP

Explanation: US airlines have started testing new software TAP developed by NASA to make traffic aware strategic aircrew requests (TASAR) and this software directly connects to aircraft avionics information hub on the aircraft. It reads the current position and altitude of the aircraft, its flight route and other real-time information that defines the plane's current situation and active flight plan.

Question: Google has allowed users to avail which facility after the recent undo technology on 24th September 2015:

A. Block feature

B. Unsubscribe feature

C. Both of the above

D. Neither of the above

Answer: Both of the above

Explanation: Following undo, tech major Google has now introduced block and unsubscribe features for Gmail service allowing users to block email ID and unsubscribe from news letters in just a few clicks. Through the new features, specific email addresses can be blocked in Gmail on the web and future mail will go to spam folder. Users can also opt out of eligible mailing lists directly from the Gmail app. The “undo” option was introduced in June and gmail currently attracts more than 900 million users internationally.

Question: 13 year old Odisha student has won the Community Impact Award at the Google Science Fair in the 13 to 15 years category for developing a water purifier working through waste corn cobs on 22nd September 2015. She is:

A. Sripada Srisai Lalita Prasida

B. Geetika Srisai Lalita Prasida

C. Malini Srisai Lalita Prasida

D. None of the above

Answer: Sripada Srisai Lalita Prasida

Explanation: 13 year old Oriya student Sripada Srisai Lalita Prasida, has won the Community Impact Award at the Google Science Fair in the 13-15 years age category for developing a water purifier that works using waste corn cobs. A standard 9th student at DPS Damanjodi in Koratpur district, Prasida was awarded USD 10,000 as prize money apart from receiving mentorship from Google. Prasida used waste corn cobs in order to clean purify water from domestic as well as industrial wastes by applying the principle of adsorption. She based her invention on the principle that waste corn cobs are able to adsorb contaminants like salt oxides, detergent, suspended particles, coloured dyes, oil, grease and certain heavy metals.

Question: Stanford engineers including that of Indian origin have developed which type of coating to boost and cool solar cells and their efficiency?

A. Transluscent

B. Transparent

C. Opaque

D. None of the above

Answer: Transparent

Explanation: Stanford engineers Shanhui Fan, a professor of electrical engineering, research associate Aaswath P Raman and doctoral candidate Linxiao Zhu at Stanford University in US, have found a solution which is based on a thin, patterned silica material laid on top of a traditional solar cell to boost its efficiency and cool the solar cells. As the heat of the solar cells increases, they become less efficient at covering photons in light into electricity with can be useD. Material of the coating is transparent to the visible sunlight powering solar cells, yet captures and emits thermal radiation or heat from infrared rays. In 2014, the same researchers developed an ultrathin material radiating infrared heat directly back toward space without atmospheric warming. For a typical crystalline silicon solar cell with an efficiency of 20 per cent, minus 5 degrees Celsius of cooling would improve absolute cell efficiency by over 1 per cent, a figure that represents a significant gain in energy production. The transparent thermal overlay works best in dry environments.

Question: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J. P. Nadda released the NHP/National Health Profile on 22nd September 2015. Which of the following statements are correct about NHP?

A. e-Book/digital version of NHP was released for the first time.

B. This is NHP’s 11th edition

C. NHP 2015 incorporates data from ESIC and Railways for the first time

D. All of the above

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: The National Health Profile/NHP prepared by Central Bureau of Health Intelligence was released on 22nd September 2015. It covers demographic, socio-economic, health status and health finance indicators, along with detailed information on health infrastructure and human resources in health. NHP estimates there is one hospital bed for every 1833 people and the ratio of 1:11000 for the number of government doctors to patients, with Bihar and Maharashtra attaining the worst rations. India currently has 9.4 lakh allopathic doctors, 1.54 lakh dental surgeons and 7.37 lakh AYUSH doctors. Its 400 medical colleges admit an estimated 47000 students annually. NHP was launched in 2005. It seeks to understand data for health indicators of the nation and studied data under following 6 categories-demographic, socio-economic, health finance and health status indicators, comprehensive information on health infrastructure and human resources in health in India.

Question:  World Rhino Day was celebrated on the following day:

A. 21st September

B. 22nd September

C. 23rd September

D. 24th September

Answer: 22nd September

Explanation: World Rhino Day observed on September 22, 2015 to celebrate 5 species of rhino-Black, White, Greater one-horned, Sumatran and Javan rhinos. World Rhino Day was announced by WWF-South Africa in the year 2010. In India, they day was celebrated with awareness programmes at Kaziranga National Park (Assam), Manas National Park (Assam) and Laokhowa Burachapori (Assam). According to Save the Rhino, there are 29,000 rhinos left across the globe today. Numbers fell from 5 lakh rhinos to 70,000 in 1970.

Question: Saudi National Day was celebrated on which day?

A. 22nd September

B. 23rd September

C. 24th September

D. 25th September

Answer: 23rd September

Explanation: The people of Saudi Arabia celebrated Saudi National Day on 23rd September 2015. Indo-Saudi diplomatic relations can be traced to the 1940s and upgraded completely in 1954. Foundation of foreign bilateral relations was laid when Crown Prince Faisal visited India in 1955. This was followed by the first ever visit of Head of State, King Saud bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud in December 1955. Several agreements have been signed including DTAA, BIPPA and cooperation in the field of sports between the two nations. Delhi Declaration marks a major turn in the India-Saudi Arabia relations.

Question: CCS cleared a USD multi billion deal for 22 Apache attack helicopters and 15 Chinook heavy-lift choppers with which American Aviation company on 22nd September 2015?

A. Boeing

B. Concorde

C. Lufthansa

D. None of the above

Answer: Boeing

Explanation: CCS (Cabinet Committee on Security) has approved the deal for Apache and Chinook helicopters. The deal has been valued over USD 2.5 bullion and pending since 2013.American companies have over the last 10 years bagged defence contracts from India worth around $10 billion, including for aircraft like P-8I maritime surveillance planes, C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster-III in the transport category. Helicopter deal has survived 10 price extensions.

Question: Which company was appointed as implementation agency of Electronics Development Fund Policy on 21st September 2015?

A. The CANBANK Venture Capital Fund Ltd

B. The TECHBANK Venture Capital Fund Ltd

C. The INNOVATION BANK Venture Capital Fund Ltd

D. None of the above

Answer: The CANBANK Venture Capital Fund Ltd

Explanation: The Electronic Development Fund (EDF) is set up as a Fund of Funds to participate in Daughter Funds that will provide risk capital to companies developing new technologies in the area of electronics, nano-electronics and Information Technology (IT).

Question: Which well known Odia lyricist passed away on 22nd September 2015 at the age of 62?

A. Nizam

B. Ali

C. Ahmed

D. None of the above

Answer: Nizam

Explanation: Renowned Odia lyricist Nizam passed away on 22nd September 2015 in Odisha’s capital city following heart attack and kidney failure at the age of 62. Nizam was born in Cuttack in 1952. Starting his career as an All India Radio artiste, he joined Odia Film Industry as a lyricist in 1977 and created a niche for himself. He had written songs for over 100 films in his 35 years of career. Some of his famous works are Hrudayara Eei Sunyata Ku Aaji Pachari Mu Jebe Sune, Needa Bhara Rati, Madhu Bhara Janha, Mu Je Eka Pagala Bhanra etc.

Question: Trust Fund for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under DEPwD, MOSJ&E has signed an MoU with which company on 21st September 2015?

A. General Insurance Corporation

B. New India Assurance Company

C. Life Insurance Corporation

D. None of the above

Answer: New India Assurance Company

Explanation: Trust Fund for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Department of Empowerment of People with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MOSJ&E), formed an MoU for this company aimed at providing an affordable health insurance, Swavlamban Health Insurance Scheme, for the Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and improving the general health condition and quality of life of persons with disabilities. Scheme can be availed by the beneficiary aged between 18 years and 65 years with family income of less than INR 300000 per annum and it will provide health insurance cover of up to INR 200000 per annum. National Institutes and Composite Regional Centres for Persons with Disabilities (CRC’s) under the DEPwD, MOSJ&E are some of the participants in this MoU’s implementation.

Question: Indian Wushu team has scored how many medals in total at the 5th International Pars Wushu Cup in Tehran?

A. 6

B. 10

C. 12

D. 8

Answer: 12

Explanation: Indian Wushu team secured 12 medals-one gold, four silver and seven bronze medals- at 5th International Pars Wushu Cup held Tehran. India’s L. Budhachandra Singh won the gold medal after beating Masod Ansari of Iran in the final of the 56 kg category. Mukesh Choudhary and Rajani Deori fetched silvers for the country. The previous edition was held in Zenjan Iram and India had won 2 silver and 3 bronze medals here. Wushu is a Chinese martial arts contact and exhibition sports and IWUF/ International Sushi Foundation organises it.

Question: Union Cabinet has given approval for which centre for persons of disabilities on 22nd September 2015?

A. Indian Sign Language Training and Research Centre

B. Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre

C. Indian Sign Language Research Centre

D. Indian Sign Language Training Centre

Answer: Indian Sign Language Training and Research Centre

Explanation: The Union Cabinet approved the setting up of Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) as a Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. More than 5 million people in India are hearing impaired and this centre will help them. The Centre will be a Society consisting of a President and 12 Members in the General Council. There will be an Executive Council consisting of a Chairperson and nine Members and members from National Organisations of the Universities/Academic Institutions and independent experts in Indian Sign Language

Question: The Birth anniversary of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar is celebrated on:

A. 22nd September

B. 23rd September

C. 17th September

D. 18th September

Answer: 23rd September

Explanation: Ramdhari Singh Dinkar was a patriot, essayist and poet. He was born on 23rd September 1908 and passed away on 24th April 1974 aged 65. He was a freedom fighter and MP who won the following awards:

- Sahitaya Akademi Award-1959

- Padma Bhushan- 1959

- Bharatiya Jnanpith- 1972

Question: The US Internal Revenue Service thinks bitcoin is property; a federal judge thinks it's a currency. What has the Commodity Futures Trading Commission decreed it as?

A. Property

B. Currency

C. Commodity

D. Futures

Answer: Commodity

Explanation: Commodity Futures Trading Commission has decreed Bitcoin is a commodity meaning regulator can now bring charges against any wrongdoers trading cryptocurrency futures and options. Ring will open up financial innovation in the state. This is consequent to the US based Bitcoin future trading platforms. Bitcoin refers to a kind of digital currency where encryption techniques are used for regulation of generation of units of currency and verification of the transfer of funds, operating independently of a central bank.

Question: President Pranab Mukerjee on 19 September 2015 presented the National Tourism Award 2013-2014 to which city for being the Best Heritage City?

A. Gwalior, MP

B. Varanasi, UP

C. Cuttack, Odisha

D. None of the above

Answer: Gwalior, MP

Explanation: Gwalior, gets Best Heritage City award.

President Pranab Mukherjee conferred the National Tourism Awards 2013-2014 to following awardees -

- The state of Gujarat: Best State/UT for Comprehensive Tourism Development

- Heritage City Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh: Best Heritage City

- Municipal Council of Maheshwar (Distt.Khargone) in Madhya Pradesh: Best Civic Management of a Tourist Destination in B Category.

- Gujarat: Best Film Promotion Friendly State/Union territory.

- Department of Tourism of Kerala: Most Innovative use of Information technology.

- The Great backwaters of Kerala by Kerala Tourism: Best Tourism Film.

- The Coffee Table Book Gujarat’s 50 Golden Destinations by Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd: Best Tourism Promotion Publicity material.

- M/s Kuoni Travel India Pvt Ltd, Gurgaon: Best Inbound Tour Operators/Travel agents in the category of earning Foreign Exchange of 100 crore rupees or more annually.

- M/s Trail Blazer Tours India Pvt: earning Foreign Exchange of 50-100 crore rupees in a year.

- M/s Eco Mobility and Hospitality Pvt Ltd: Category I of Tourist Transport Operator.

- M/s Snow Leopard Adventure Pvt Ltd, Gurgaon: Best Adventure Tour Operator.

Question: Which renowned Urdu scholar 20 September 2015 was honoured with the Jnangarima Manad Alankaran by Bharatiya Jnanpith in New Delhi?

A. Gulzar

B. Shamim Hanfi

C. Javed Akhtar

D. None of the above

Answer: Shamim Hanfi

Explanation: Well known Urdu scholar Shamim Hanfi was awarded the Jnangarima Manad Alankaran by Bharatiya Jnanpith for his works. He is best known for books like Ghazal Ka Naya Manzarnama, Jadidiyat ki Falsafiyani Asas and Infiradi Shaoor aur Ijtemai Zindagi. Born on 17th November 1938 in Sultanpur, UP, he moved to Allahabadd for higher studies and worked as a freelance contributor for several Hindi and Urdu periodicals and newspapers. Bharatiya Jnanpith instituted the Jnangarima Manad Alankaran award in 2015 to commemorate 70 years of the institution and it identifies the contribution of writers in Indian languages. A Saraswati statue, a silver citation and a shawl is given to the recipient of this literary honour.

Question: Which party in Greek national elections has won the mandate to form government for the second time in 2015, on 21st September 2015?

A. Left wing Syriza party

B. Far Right Golden Dawn

C. New Democracy

D. Nationalist Independent Greeks

Answer: Left wing Syriza party

Explanation: Alexis Tsipras took oath as the Greek PM following a decisive victory in the Greek early national elections for his left wing Syriza party. Earlier, Tsipras had served as PM between January and August 2015 and at 41, he dominates Greek Politics. He will renew his pro-European coalition with the small, right-wing populist Independent Greeks (ANEL) party, which beat opinion polls to clear the three per cent threshold required for representation in parliament. The new government will have a small majority of just five seats, but, as per Tsipras, is aiming to see out a four-year mandate.

Question: Which well known BCCI president recently passed away at the age of 75 on 20th September 2015?

A. Jagmohan Dalmiya

B. Sunil Gavaskar

C. N. Srinivasan

D. Raj Singh Durgarpur

Answer: Jagmohan Dalmiya

Explanation: BCCI President Jagmohan Dalmiya passed away at a private hospital in Kolkata on Sunday, 20th September 2015 at the age of 75. He also served as president of the International Cricket Council (1997-2000 and was admitted to hospital after suffering a heart attack on 17th September. He was a key figure in bringing the 1987 and 1996 cricket World Cups to the sub-continent and took over as BCCI president for a second time earlier this year. He joined BCCI in 1979 and was the first Asian head of ICC.

Question: Which well known Malayalam playback singer passed away on 20th September 2015 on account of cancer?

A. Radhika Thale

B. Anumppamma

C. Maduh Balakrishnan

D. P. Leela

Answer: Radhika Thale

Explanation: Well known Malayalam playback singer Radhika Thilak passed away in Kochi on 20 September 2015 from cancer at the age of 45 years. She sung around 70 songs for Malayalam movies and this includes Guru, Ottayal Pattalam and Deepasthambham Mahashcharyam. She performed on Doordarshan during the 1990s and was also a prominent face in AIR shows. Her notable film performances include Arunakirana deepam, Deva sangeetham, Maya manchalil, Kaithapoo manam, Thiruvathira thira nokkiya, Ente ulludukkum kotti and Ninte kannil.

Question: Paytm has appointed which senior executive for its core payments business on 15th September 2015?

A. Alok Misra

B. Anand Misra

C. Sanjay Misra

D. Nitin Misra

Answer: Nitin Misra

Explanation: Paytm has hired former Airtel and Samsung senior executive Nitin Misra to head its product pipeline for core payments business. The firm is looking to build a second tier of leaders to strengthen critical operations through this move.

Question: World’s longest chain of continental volcanoes created over the past 33 million years stretching along 2000 km in which continent?

A. Asia

B. Africa

C. Australia

D. None of the above

Answer: Australia

Explanation: World’s longest chain of continental volcanoes put together in the past 33 million years stretch over 2000 km in eastern AustraliA. Active volcanic chain is running from central Queensland coast’s Cape Hillsborough to New South Wales and Cosgrove in VictoriA. This volcanic chain ws created as Australia moved north-northeast over a mantle plume hotspot now located in Bass Strait. 

This kind of volcanic activity occurs away from tectonic plate boundaries where most volcanoes are locateD. Newly discovered volcanic chain is westerly of 3 volcanic chains running across eastern AustraliA. The fastest moving continent on Earth is Australia currently.

Question: Government has decided to ban import, export and manufacturing of which toxic chemical w.e.f 15th September 2015?

A. Polychlorinated biphenstye

B. Polychlorinated disulphide

C. Polychlorinated magnesium

D. Polychlorinated phosphorous

Answer: Polychlorinated biphenstye

Explanation: Government has taken the decision to ban manufacturing, import as well as export of polychlorinated biphenyls and equipment containing this toxic chemical. PCBs are banned under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants otherwise known as the POPS Treaty. This was ratified in 2006 to ban use of PCBs by 2025 and adopt measures to lower or remove releases from stock piles and waste by 2028. 

Government proposes to regulate manufacture, trade, use, import or export of PCBs equipment with these and contaminated with this chemical and dispose of PCB waste. Import as well as export of PCB-contaminated equipment will be regulated as per the provisions of the Hazardous Wastes Rules, 2008.

Question: Russia has launched which rocket carrying a Russian telecoms satellite, from the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in the second successful launch since the disastrous loss of a Mexican satellite in May, on 15th September 2015?

A. Proton-M

B. Proton-N

C. Proton-L

D. Proton-J

Answer: Proton-M

Explanation: Proton M took off at 19:10 GMT from the desert launch site according to Russian space agency Roscosmos. Russia had also successfully launched a Proton rocket, carrying a British satellite, in late August. In May, Russia lost a Mexican satellite after a Proton-M rocket crashed shortly after the launch.Based on a Soviet-era design, the Proton-M is viewed as a veteran workhorse of the space industry. Russia is developing a new generation of rockets to succeed it.

Question: Which two nations were reinstating border controls to cope with onslaught of refugees following a similar move by Germany, on Tuesday 15th September 2015?

A. Hungary & Czechoslovakia

B. Austria & Slovakia

C. Russia & Ukraine

D. None of the above

Answer: Austria & Slovakia

Explanation: Austria and Slovakia have announced the reinstatement of border controls to cope with refugees in a move echoing Germany. Berlin’s move struck at the EU passport free Schengen zone precipitating the crisis in Brussels. Austria has indicated it would deploy control of influx trying to leave Hungary as they tried to enter the Germany Austria border. Germany has admitted that this is Europe’s biggest migrant crisis since WWII with millions leaving Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Question: The Pentagon has established the first ever country special cell to speed up defense ties with which of the following nations:

A. India

B. Cambodia

C. China

D. Japan

Answer: India

Explanation: Pentagon has established first ever country special cell to boost defense ties with India and produce hi tech military equipment in the country. The Indian Rapid Reaction Cell is headed by Keith Webster, director, International Cooperation Office of the Under Secretary of Defence for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. It was established after Ashton Carter took charge and India is the only country to have a specific cell of its kind inside the Pentagon. Currently, 7 persons are working on this cell. Purpose of the cell is to boost initiatives under Indo-US DTTI.

Question: Text based UNSC reforms will be continued in the 70th session and this was a decision adopted:

A. By consensus

B. 70% Yes 30% No

C. 51% Yes & 49% No

D. None of the above

Answer: By consensus

Explanation: No voting was needed on decision to continue with UNSC reforms in the 70th session as the decision was adopted by consensus. UNGA unanimously adopted the negotiating text for UNSC reforms establishing the stage for long pending process at 70th session of the international body. The UNGA President, Sam Kutesa also circulated the position of key nations with respect to the negotiating text.

Question: $Cashtags is a partnership between Twitter and which mobile payment company?

A. Square

B. Stripe

C. Free charge

D. None of the above

Answer: Square

Explanation: As per the partnership between Twitter and mobile payments firm Square has given campaigns the ability to tweet URLs known as $Cashtags to get access to donations. This is a social media strategy to also raise awareness about the campaign message and is being actively used in the US Presidential Elections.

Question: Which three companies have signed an MoU with Andhra Pradesh for developing it as a manufacturing hub?

A. Micromax, Celkon and Karbonn

B. Micromax, Xiaomi and Samsung

C. Micromax, Celkon and Xiaomi

D. Micromax, Karbonn and Xiaomi

Answer: Micromax, Celkon and Karbonn

Explanation: The three companies have signed MoU with low cost Indian mobile phone manufacturers for setting up mobile manufacturing hub at Tirupati. MoUs were signed in Vijayawada and AP is now targeting production and manufacturing of 6-7 million phones per month in the year 2016. Xiaomi’s entry into AP will now have three more companies to complete with.

Question: Which company has raised USD 730 million in the third fund, making it the largest Indian dedicated exercise by a PE firm and also exceeding the USD 650 million estimate on 16th September 2015?

A. Blackstone Capital

B. Everstone Capital

C. Warburg Pincus

D. Morgan and Chase

Answer: Everstone Capital

Explanation: Over 50% of the capital is from N. AmericA. 37% is from Europe. Global investors participated in the previous rounds causing hard cap to reach USD 700 million. General partners, fund managers and staff with group affiliates added another INR 30 million. This is the largest fundraise in the year 2015 so far. In 2006-2007, 13% of Indian PE investments by value were control investments increasing to 29% by 2013, as per a report by management consulting firm McKinsey. 

There is a massive increase from 2014 where only total of USD 800 million was raiseD. India’s Everstone Capital is a SE PE focused real estate investment group. It has recently acquired HUL’s Modern Foods for INR 250 crore and sold controlling stake in Global Hospitals to IHH-Parkway recently.

Question: Ola has signed an MoU with which state for technology to support vehicles?

A. Kerala

B. Karnataka

C. Andhra Pradesh

D. TN

Answer: Andhra Pradesh

Explanation: The move will bring technological support to over 50,000 vehicles in the State within the next three years. The taxi aggregator will also work towards the State government’s vision of transforming Andhra Pradesh into a smart-tourism huB. Aside from the MoU, the taxi aggregator also said it will invest around Rs. 150 crore in the State. The proposed investment will be made over 3 years and is a bid to encourage driver entrepreneurship and to create employment opportunities in the State.

Question: Which drug pharma major has entered into an agreement to acquire US based eyesore firm Insite Vision for USD 48 million plus related debt and transaction costs:

A. Ranbaxy

B. Sun Pharma

C. Abbott

D. None of the above

Answer: Sun Pharma

Explanation: This move will strengthen Sun’s branded ophthalmic portfolio in the US. The deal gives Sun Pharma access to four late stage branded ophthalmic products in the US. For the 6-month period ending June, InSite Vision recorded revenues of $3.8 million, an EBITDA loss of USD 6.4 million and a net loss of $7.5 million.

Question: Which software services firm has collaborated with IBM for developing joint solutions for Internet of Things?

A. HCL Technologies

B. HP

C. Microsoft

D. None of the above.

Answer: HCL Technologies

Explanation: 

Country’s 4th largest software services firm, HCL Technologies will partner IBM for developing IoT solutions. Focus will be on specific verticals such as industrial, manufacturing and smart facilities to co-develop solutions around ‘Connected Products and Operations’ like remote monitoring, smart inventory management, smart building and facilities management. The two companies will also establish up an incubation centre in Noida to develop these solutions for the chosen industries.

IoT is defined as a network of inter-connected devices that can be accessed through the internet.

Question: RBI’s high powered committee on urban cooperative banks headed by deputy governor R. Gandhi has made which of the following recommendations 

A. Private banks with over INR 20,000 crore or more business may be expected to convert to commercial banks and will be incentivized to do so as there will be restriction on expansion in cooperative sector

B. Smaller UCBs could convert to small finance banks.

C. Both a and b

D. Neither a nor b

Answer: Both a and b

Explanation: RBI panel has suggested that private banks with over INR 20,000 may be incentivised to convert to commercial banks though conversion need not be de jure compulsory. RBI aims to push cooperative banks into private sector as compliance with global guidelines like Basel III needs that all lenders (and this includes cooperative banks) will hold adequate capital and meet prudential norms. Cooperatives are regulated by registrar of cooperatives and RBI. 

Only one bank has converted from cooperative to private namely Development Credit Cooperative Bank into DCB. Conversion from cooperative to private banks would subject them to more stringent regulation under Companies Act and Banking Regulation Act.

Question: NHAI has recently decided to set up an international body to tap road building possibilities outside the country on September 17, 2015. Name this body.

A. NHAI Global

B. NHAI International

C. NHAI International Ltd

D. NHAI International Corporation

Answer: NHAI International

Explanation: NHAI International will have offices in different countries and function like rail PSUs undertaking construction and consultancy projects internationally. It will be outside the ambit of NHAI. Iran, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan are some of the nations planning to award contracts to India in coming years. GoI has also made the decision to increase India’s national highways network to 1.5 lakh km in a year through addition of 50,000 km more than the existing/current network. Target is 30 km of road construction every day by March 2016. A separate body is also being planned for carrying out the expressways project. Mass transit projects are also on the anvil. 

Question: Lenders will not require prior central bank approval for equity investments if they have a capital risk weighted asset ratio of how much?

A. 10% or more

B. 10% or less

C. 8% or more

D. 8% or less

Answer: 10% or more

Explanation: Lenders will not require prior approval by the central bank for making equity investments if they have capital risk weighted asset ration of 10% or higher and have made profits in the previous financial year, according to notification by RBI. Equity investments without prior approval would have to equal around less than 10% of the company’s paid up capital or lower than one fifth of the paid up capital if including subsidiaries or JVs.

Question: First round for phase-2 of FM radio licence auction closed recently where the GoI raised INR 1064 crore for 91 frequencies in 54 cities. How many frequencies remained unsold?

A. 42

B. 41

C. 39

D. 38

Answer: 39

Explanation: Additionally 7 frequencies have reportedly been auctioneD. It is the frequencies of smaller towns like Tirupati and Vijaywada which remained unsolD. Biggest bidders were Entertainment Network India Ltd(part of TOI group owning Mirchi brand) with INR 339.2 crore for 17 channels and HT Media Ltd which bid INR 339.8 crore for 10 channels. Third in line was Digital Radio Broadcasting Ltd( Sun Group) with INR 134.9 crore for 3 channels and Reliance Broadcast network Ltd with INR 116.9 crore for 14 channels. Delhi fetched the highest bid at INR 169.2 crore which was 5 and half times reserve price of INR 31.4 crore indicating a scarcity premium. Mirchi brand will now cover 43 cities following the auctions. The top 5 companies and their frequencies won and amount spend were:

- ENIL(Mirchi)-17-INR 339.2 crore

- HT Media Ltd-10- INR 339.8 crore

- Digital Radio(Sun)-3-INR 134.9 crore

- Reliance Braodcast-14- INR 116.9 crore

- Music Bradocast-11- INR 62.6 crore Delhi fetched 5.5 times the reserve price of INR 31.4 crore.

Question: SERCO BPO , India’s 3rd largest BPO company is being reacquired by which company for INR 2558 crore in September 2015?

A. Everstone

B. Blackstone

C. Morgan and Chase

D. None of the above.

Answer: Blackstone

Explanation: SERCO BPO is being acquired by Blackstone for INR 2558 crore which is less than half the price at which it was sold to the former 4 years ago. Following the purchase by the US investment and advisory firm, BPO will retain its old name Intelenet Global Services. Blackstone owned this BPO unit till 2011 after which it was sold to SERCO for USD 630m. The proceeds from this transaction will be used for cutting down on Serco’s debt. Internet was initially a JV between TCS and HDFC. The latter purchased the stake of the former in 2004 and sold the unit to Blackstone in 2007. Some of the major consolidations seen in past 3 years includes IBM’s sale of Daksh to Concentric, Convergys merger with Stream and Aegis’s sale of US business to tele performance. This is the largest acquisition by Blackstone to be made and SERCO BPO’s CEO will be Susir Kumar.

Question: RBI has shortlisted how many micro lenders to establish small banks for loan advancement in relation to unbanked, small businesses, with effect from 17th September 2015?

A. 15

B. 14

C. 10

D. 8

Answer: 10

Explanation: RBI has shortlisted 10 micro lenders to establish small banks for loan advancement for unbanked, small businesses, micro and small industries as well as unorganised sectors which do not have access to large bank financing. From 10 entities granted approval in principle, 8 are micro-finance providers, one is a local area bank and the remaining is a non banking finance company. Small b7anks are akin to regular CoBs while scale of service will be smaller and these banks should generate 75% of business from the priority sector namely agriculture and areas where large banks are not present. Around 50% of their loans will be under INR 25 lakhs. Licenses for payment banks were recently issued as well. Much like payment banks, minimum paid up equity for small finance banks is INR 100 crore and RBI has said small banks can bring down initial contribution to 40% which can be lowered to 26% over the next 12 years. Sole NBFC in the list is AU Financiers set up in 1996. Other micro lenders chosen and their year of establishment is as follows:

- Capital Local Area Bank-2000

- Disha Microfin- 2009

- Equitas Holdings-2007

- ESAF Microfinance and Investments-1992

- Janalakshmi Financial Services-19999

- GVN(NE) Microfinance-2008

- Suryoday Micro Finance-2008

- Ujivan Financial Services-2005

- Utkarsh Micro Finance-2009

Question: Nepalese parliament passed a new national constitution inking a historic agreement to divide the country into how many federal provinces on September 17, 2015?

A. 7

B. 8

C. 9

D. 10

Answer: 7

Explanation: Nepalese Parliament has passed a new national constitution after reaching a historic agreement for creating a federal state. Long delayed bill for the same has been passed with 507 out of a total of 598 voting in favour for it. The marathon voting follows protests from the south. New charter will replace interim constitution in place since close of 10 year civil war that caused the abolition of monarchy. The new charter will come into force w.e.f 20th September 2015.

Question: Name the bilateral military exercise which India and China will embark on from October 11 to 23.

A. Hand in Hand

B. Hands Together

C. Hand For Hand

D. None of the above

Answer: Hand in Hand

Explanation: India and China will be conducting a bilateral HiH military exercise as a CBM between the world’s biggest and second biggest armies. HiH exercise will be held in Kunming in ChinA. China has recently cut its 2.3 million strong PLA by 2017 through a proposed 3,00,000 troop cut and is strengthening its naval and air forces for out of area operations and expansion of large missile inventory comprising anti ship and anti satellite missiles. India is looking to streamline modernisation and slash the size of the 1.18 m army. China’s annual defiance budget is USD 130 billion while it is USD 40 billion for IndiA. India has limited missile arsenal as compared to ChinA. China has DF-3LA ICBMs with 11,200 km range, JL-2 SLBMs with 7200 km range. India currently has no ICMBS or SLBMs. While China has more than 250 nuclear warheads, India only has 50-110. Of submarines, China has 53 of which 5 are nuclear powered while India has 34 of which 1 is nuclear powereD. In terms of major warships, China has double (75) that of India (3)) though it has only 1 aircraft carrier against 2 in IndiA. China has 1600 fighter jets and more than 7,000 battle tanks and India’s corresponding numbers are 550 and 3,200. Bilateral military CBMs between the countries include HiH exercises, Border Defence Cooperation Agreement 2013 and border personnel meeting points at Chushul, DBO( Ladakh, Nathu La, Sikkim) Bum La and Kibithu( Arunachal Pradesh).

Question: Which French start up working with the government lab has discovered in-vitro human sperm claiming a breakthrough in treatment of infertility?

A. Kallistem

B. Genestem

C. Spermstem

D. None of the above

Answer: Kallistem

Explanation: French start up Kallistem has collaborated with the government to create in vitro human sperm through breakthrough in infertility treatment. The sperm has been developed from immature spermatogonial cells which are prevalent in males and develop into sperm cells with the insect of puberty. Technology has to be clinically tested and genesis of research stems from declining male fertility. The researchers developed a bioreactor using a viscous fluid made partly of substances found in the walls of mushrooms or in crustacean shells to reproduce the conditions within the body . The main issue was reproducing in the lab a complex physiological development process that usually lasts 72 days in a human, from immature cell to sperm. In all cases, the entire path taken in the testicle were also taken in the in vitro system.

Question: A giant virus M. sibericum has been discovered in SerbiA. The following statements about the virus are true:

A. The virus is 30,000 years old

B. It has found to be still functional and capable of infecting hosts other than humans

C. It infected single cell amoebas during the late Stone Age

D. All of the above

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: 30,000 year old Mollivirus Sibericum discovered in soil sample around 98 feet below in the Siberian permafrost is a member of a new viral family. This virus which is the fourth family of virus ever found has a diameter wider than other giant viruses. It has a diameter of 600 nanometres as against 500 in other giant viruses. The virus also has a genome of 600,000 base pairs with genetic instructions to generate 500 proteins. This 30,000 year old giant virus has the capacity to infect its host single celled amoebas only.

Question: The Union Minister of Labour and Employment, B. Dattatreya on 17th September presented which award:

A. Only a

B. Only a and c

C. Both a and b

D. None of the above

Answer: Both a and b

Explanation: The VRP and NSA awards for 2013 were bestowed on persons chosen for this honour. For the VRP, of a total of 193 applications, 28 awards were given to 132 individuals. NSA award winners were 53 in number with 42 runners up selected from 199 applications under various schemes. VRP is awarded to workers/groups of workers in 3 categories: Class A- 5 of 75000 rupees each, Class B- 8 of 50000 rupees each and Class C- 15 of 25000 rupees each. NSA was given under 12 schemes from which 10 are for Factories/Construction Sites/Installations under AERB and two are for Ports. The awards have been conferred since 1965 and are operated by the technical wing of the Union Minister of Labour and Employment, the Directorate General Factory Advice Service and Labour Institutes (DGFASLI), Mumbai.

Question: India monk Gyalwang Drukpa in September 2015 helped to restore and renovate which Lord Buddha relics sent by King Ashoka?

A. 2000 year old Nangchen Stupa

B. Ashokan Pillar

C. Huge Golden Statue of Lord Budha

D. All of the above

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: Indian monk, Gyalwang Drukpa has helped to restore Lord Buddha relics sent by Emperor AshokA. Gyalwang, spiritual head of the Drukpa lineage in Ladakh consecrated the stupa along with an Ashokan pillar and massive golden statue of Lord Buddha on 18th September 2015. Nangchen stupa was first discovered in the Tibetan region. It is one of 19 stupas containing Lord Buddha relics and sent by Emperor Ashoka to ChinA. Of the 19 stupas, 4 stupas including Nangchen have been discovereD. The other three are located in Xian, Nanjing and close to Ayuwang in Zhejiang Province. As per legend , close to 2500 years ago, Buddhist disciples recovered a skull bone, 2 scapulas, 4 teeth and 84,000 Sariras or relics. Legend has it that Emperor Ashoka collected the sariras of the Sankhyamuni , stored then in shines and send them to different parts of the world.

Question: The new bill on disabilities proposed in September 2015 has increased the list of disabilities to:

A. From 7 to 18

B. From 7 to 19

C. From 6 to 18

D. From 6 to 19

Answer: From 7 to 18

Explanation: Proposed bill for disability has expanded the list of disabilities from 7 to 19. Centre has established a committee of experts to measure mechanisms for 19 disabilities included in the bill. The 30 member panel includes technical experts and reworked law will create more awareness amidst the target group.

Question: A painting by a Goa born artist has broken the world record for an Indian work of art. The painting is by :

A. Francis Newton Souza

B. Jehangir Sabavala

C. M. F. Husain

D. V. S. Gaitonde

Answer: Francis Newton Souza

Explanation: Goan artist Francis Newton Souza’s epic work titled Birth sold for an astounding $4 million (Rs 28 crore approx) at a Christie's sale. The previous record for the country's priciest piece of art was held by V S Gaitonde who sold for $3.7 million at Christie's debut auction in Mumbai in 2013. Birth was painted in 1955 and the painting has many subjects found in his early practice.

Question: Executive Council of Nehru Memorial Museum and Library has accepted the resignation of which officer on 18th September 2015?

A. Council chairperson Lokesh Chandra

B. Director Mahesh Rangrajan

C. Vice Chairman M. J. Akbar

D. President Pratap Bhanu Mehta

Answer: Director Mahesh Rangrajan

Explanation: Director Mahesh Rangrajan has submitted his resignation to the executive council of NMML. Joint Secretary in cultural ministry in charge of NMML will be made into the officiating director. Rangarajan was appointed Director of NMML in June 2014 by the UPA government headed by PM Manmohan Singh. He is a teacher and author with special interest in environment and colonial history. NMML is a memorial to Jawaharlal Nehru and it is located in the Teen Murti House campus at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Teen Murti house was designed by R. T. Russel and building during 1929-1930 as part of Edwin Lutyen’s imperial capital.

Question: As per the announcement made by RBI on 3rd Sep’15, the Reserve Bank of India will shortly put into circulation ____coins to commemorate golden jubilee of Indo-Pak War 1965.

A. Rs.1

B. Rs.2

C. Rs.5

D. Rs.10

Answer: C. Rs.5 

RBI said in a release that the coins will be legal tender as provided in the Coinage Act 2011. Existing coins in this denomination will also continue to be legal tender.

Question: As per the latest FIFA rankings released on 3d Sep’15, what is the ranking of Indian Football team?

A. 141

B. 156

C. 155

D. 124

Answer: C. 155 

Earlier in July, India had dropped 15 positions to 156th place after two successive defeats in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. India was recently held to a goalless draw by Nepal in an international friendly match in Pune. The Indian team will now take on Iran in a World Cup qualifier in Bengaluru on September 8.

Question: Which state’s High Court on 3rd Sep’15 rejected its state government's request to postpone elections to local bodies for a further one month period?

A. Karnataka

B. Uttar Pradesh

C. Bihar

D. Kerala

Answer: D. Kerala 

The bench, comprising Chief Justice Ashok Bhushan and Justice A M Shafique, said it is the constitutional obligation of the State Election Commission (SEC) to take a decision on conducting polls to local bodies. It is not necessary or required for the High Court to consider the government's request, it said, adding that the decision has to be taken independently by the SEC.

Question: According to a new report by AfrAsia Bank and New World Wealth, which of the following cities has the highest number of dollar millionaires in Africa?

A. Johannesburg

B. Lagos

C. Cairo

D. Durban

Answer: A. Johannesburg 

Johannesburg alone, known as the city of gold, is home to 23,400 millionaires. South Africa has 30 per cent of the total. Egypt's Cairo comes second with 10,200, with Nigeria's Lagos third with 9,100. The study defines millionaires as people with net assets worth at least one million dollars. It estimates there are close to 163,000 millionaires living in Africa, with a combined wealth of 670 billion dollars.

Question: Which of the following country’s President made the announcement on 3rd Sep’15 to reduce its military personnel by three lakh?

A. China

B. USA

C. Canada

D. Afghanistan

Answer: A. China 

China will reduce its military personnel by three lakh. President Xi Jinping made the announcement at a massive military parade at Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 70th anniversary of China's victory against Japan in the 2nd World War. He, however, did not give a timeframe for the plan. The Chinese President described the cut as a gesture of peace. China has presently more than 20 lakh military personnel.

Question: Name the deaf and mute Indian girl whose petition seeking her custody rejected by the Pakistan Court on 3rd Sep’15?

A. Juhi

B. Shabana

C. Geeta

D. Pragya

Answer: C. Geeta 

A Pakistani court dismissed the petition filed by an Indian social worker seeking custody of a deaf and mute Indian girl Geeta, stuck in Pakistan for more than a decade. The court, refused to issue orders for her forced repatriation. A Social worker and lawyer from Haryana, had filed the petition in Sindh High Court to seek the custody of 23-year-old Geeta. Geeta has been stranded in Pakistan for the last 13 years after crossing over to Pakistan by mistake. She was arrested by Pakistan Rangers and then handed over to Edhi which has been taking care of her.

Question: Who among the following will take a class of students belonging to 11th & 12th on 4th Sep’15 to mark Teacher’s Day?

A. Narendra Modi

B. Pranab Mukherjee

C. Rahul Gandhi

D. Amitabh Bachchan

Answer: B. Pranab Mukherjee

Mr Mukherjee will hold a joint class of the students of Dr Rajendra Prasad Sarvodhya Vidhalaya school. The school is located in the Presidential Estate. He will also interact with students and teachers of the school.

Question: Which country’s multi-spectral remote sensing satellite will be launched by India from Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota?

A. Australia

B. Brazil

C. Indonesia

D. Japan

Answer: C. Indonesia 

India will launch a second multi-spectral remote sensing Indonesian satellite that will help the country to monitor land-use, natural resource and in disaster mitigation. The satellite will be shipped to India on 4th Sep’15. LAPAN A2 /Orari will function as a tool to monitor land usage, ship movements, sea resources and fishing explorations. The satellite will orbit the Earth along the equator with an altitude of 650 kilometers, and travel at 7.5 kilometers per second - enabling it to circle the Earth 14 times a day.

Question: Name the 115-year-old trust that has been wound up by Government and its balance corpus fund of Rs 91 lakh transferred to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund?

A. Famine People’s Trust

B. Jaipur Natural Calamity Trust

C. Indian People's Natural Calamity Trust

D. Natural Calamity Trust

Answer: C. Indian People's Natural Calamity Trust 

The Indian People's Natural Calamity Trust (IPNCT) was created by former Ruler of Jaipur in 1900 with an objective to provide relief to the people during famine. The Trust is being administered under the chairmanship of Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh with 27 nominated members and two officers. The Agriculture Ministry said in a release that since its last meeting held in August 1995, the Trust has no significant activity except giving donations through PM Relief Fund in case of natural disasters.

Question: On 3rd Sep’15, with which country has India agreed to increase bilateral trade by 60% in next 5 years?

A. UAE

B. Iraq

C. Israel

D. Saudi Arabia

Answer: A. UAE 

The agreements were arrived at the 11th session of the India-UAE Joint Commission meeting held in New Delhi on 3rd Sep’15. The two sides also agreed to work for early establishment of the planned India-UAE Joint Fund for investments in the infrastructure sector in India. During the meeting, the two sides also signed MOUs on cooperation in the areas of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Tourism, Telecommunication and also between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Question: What methodology has been proposed by RBI on 1st Sep’15 to make Base Rate sensitive to policy changes?

A. Marginal cost of funds Methodology

B. Funds Methodology

C. Currency Methodology

D. All of these

Answer: A. Marginal cost of funds Methodology 

The new methodology is aimed at bringing uniformity among Base Rate of banks so that they will be more sensitive to any changes in policy rates of the RBI like Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR), etc. At present, banks are following different methodologies in computing their Base Rate like on the basis of average cost of funds, marginal cost of funds or blended cost of funds (liabilities).

Question: Who is the author of the book titled “Globalisation, Democratization and Distributive Justice”?

A. Dr. Mool Chand Sharma

B. Durga Dayal

C. Devi Prasad Verma

D. None of these

Answer: A. Dr. Mool Chand Sharma 

He is the Professor of Law at Delhi University and the Member of Law Commission of India.

Question: Which of the following states has witnessed huge violence on 31st Aug & 1st Sep’15 after a general strike was called by the tribal student organisations to protest against the passage of three Bills in the state Assembly?

A. Gujarat

B. Manipur

C. Jharkhand

D. Nagaland

Answer: B. Manipur 

The violence has been triggered by passage of three bills - Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015, Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (Seventh amendment) Bill, 2015 and Manipur Shops and Establishments (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015. Tribals fear that these legislations would allow "outsiders" to have rights over tribal land and not protect the indigenous people.

Question: What are the main reasons for one-day “Bharat Bandh” that was observed by almost all the major trade unions on 2nd Sep’15?

A. Against the anti-worker economic policies of the government.

B. Against the labour reforms made by the NDA government.

C. To stop privatisation and foreign investment in railways

D. All of the above

Answer: D. All of the above 

The 12-point charter of demands of the trade unions was to seek withdrawal of labour law amendments and the land acquisition amendments ordinance. They also demanded the government to stop privatisation and foreign investment in railways, insurance and defence, banning speculative trade in commodities, Universalization of Public Distribution System as well as policies to address price hike and improve employment opportunities. It also suggested an increase in the bonus ceiling as well as widening the coverage of provident fund and health insurance to include construction as well as workers in schemes such as Aanganwadis.

Question: The Commonwealth Games are held every four years and feature athletes from over 50 member countries. First held in 1930, 2022 will mark the first time the Games will be held in Africa, a move that could pave the way for South Africa to make another attempt for the Olympics after Cape Town finished third in bidding for the 2004 summer Games. The coastal city was the only bidder for the multi-sports event after the Canadian city of Edmonton withdrew from contention in February, citing falling oil prices. Organisers said the Games would be held from 18 to 30 July, opening on the birth date of the late South African President and anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela.

A. Qatar

B. Bangladesh

C. China

D. Russia

Answer: B. Bangladesh 

Organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross, the T-20 event has five nations including India, England, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participating. Bangladesh takes on England in the opening match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. The other matches will be held in the Cricket stadium in Savar.

Question: Which city has been selected as the host for the 2022 Commonwealth Games at the Federation’s general assembly in New Zealand on 2nd Sep’15?

A. Tokyo

B. Beijing

C. New Delhi

D. Durban

Answer: D. Durban 

The Commonwealth Games are held every four years and feature athletes from over 50 member countries. First held in 1930, 2022 will mark the first time the Games will be held in Africa, a move that could pave the way for South Africa to make another attempt for the Olympics after Cape Town finished third in bidding for the 2004 summer Games. The coastal city was the only bidder for the multi-sports event after the Canadian city of Edmonton withdrew from contention in February, citing falling oil prices. Organisers said the Games would be held from 18 to 30 July, opening on the birth date of the late South African President and anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela.

Question: The logo for the Tokyo Olympics Games has been scrapped after allegations that it was plagiarized. In which year Olympic Games is scheduled to be held in Tokyo?

A. 2016

B. 2018

C. 2020

D. 2022

Answer: C. 2020 

A Belgian artist had complained that his design was stolen. Logo designer Kenjiro Sano had admitted copying online material for a previous project. The logo was unveiled only last month, based around the letter T and a red circle representing a beating heart - which critics said resembled the Japanese flag.

Question: Which of the following market regulator will be merged with SEBI from 28th Sep’15?

A. Commodities Commission

B. Forward Markets Commission

C. Future Markets Commission

D. Derivatives Commission

Answer: B. Forward Markets Commission 

An official press release said, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, in his Budget speech, had announced the merger of FMC with the capital market regulator SEBI to strengthen the regulation of commodity futures market. A unified regulator for commodities and capital markets will help streamline monitoring of commodity futures trading and curb wild speculations.

Question: Which of the following countries has fallen into a recession, dragged down by falling energy prices and economic troubles in China?

A. Mongolia

B. Hong Kong

C. Canada

D. Brazil

Answer: C. Canada 

On 2nd Sep’15 Canada's national statistical agency, Statistics Canada reported that the Canadian economy retreated at an annual pace of 0.5 per cent from April through June after sliding 0.8 percent the first three months of the year. Two consecutive negative quarters are the technical definition of a recession. Canada is the world's 11th-biggest economy and the United States' biggest trading partner.

Question: Between which two stations Ministry of Railways has launched a paperless unreserved ticketing mobile application for the passengers?

A. Ghaziabad- Palwal

B. Delhi- Bahadurgarh

C. Delhi- Mumbai

D. New Delhi - Palwal

Answer: D. New Delhi – Palwal

Now the passengers can buy unreserved tickets through their smart phones and need not visit Stations to purchase tickets. Besides, the Railways has also installed a Cash or Smart Card ticket vending machine at New Delhi Railway Station to provide unreserved tickets with a view to cater to passenger rush. Now the passengers will have to download the unreserved ticketing mobile application from Google play or Window store to use the facility.

Question: What is the new extended deadline set up by the centre for crop insurance period under National Agricultural Insurance Scheme for the farmers bearing no loan?

A. 30th Sep’15

B. 1st Oct’15

C. 15th Sep’15

D. 15th Oct’15

Answer: C. 15th Sep’15 

For loan farmers the extension period will be upto end of this month. The decision will benefit farmers where delayed and deficient rainfall has been reported. Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha and Gujarat had requested the Centre to extend the period of crop insurance.

Question: What policy has been approved by the cabinet on 2nd Sep’15 for the development of hydrocarbon discoveries by national oil companies like Oil and Natural Gas Corporation and Oil India? 

A. Oil Extraction Policy

B. Marginal Field Policy

C. Conventional Source Policy

D. Earth Mining Policy

Answer: B. Marginal Field Policy 

Under new Policy 69 unexploited oil fields held by ONGC and Oil India for many years, will be opened for competitive bidding. The license granted would cover all hydrocarbons found in the field instead of being restricted to one item. Revenue sharing model is being introduced for the first time in oil sector and Government will receive a share of gross revenue instead of profit- sharing in earlier formula.

Question: Which court has asked Uttar Pradesh government to ensure hoisting ceremony of National Flag on Independence Day and Republic Day in Madarsas and other schools all over the state?

A. Allahabad High Court

B. Delhi High Court

C. Bombay High Court

D. Supreme Court

Answer: A. Allahabad High Court 

On 2nd Sep’15 a bench comprising Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice Yashwant Verma passed the order on a PIL.

Question: Name the mobile application for Freight Operations developed by Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) launched by Raliway Minister on 1st Sep’15?

A. PARIVAHAN

B. PARICHAALAN

C. PARIGAAMI

D. None of these

Answer: B. PARICHAALAN 

Parichaalan’ is a mobile application conceptualized and developed by CRIS to make decision making on freight operations absolutely easy and user friendly. The application is a powerful tool as it not only represents data in a pictorial and graphical manner that is easily comprehensible but also makes the information dynamic and current in nature.

Question: Which team clinched the Buchi Babu Memorial Trophy in the All India invitation cricket tournament on 1st Sep’15?

A. Chhattisgarh

B. Mumbai

C. Chandigarh

D. TNCA XI

Answer: B. Mumbai 

Mumbai beat Tamil Nadu Cricket Association Districts,TNCA , XI by six wickets and clinched the Buchi Babu Memorial Trophy in the All India invitation cricket tournament in Chennai.

Question: As decided by the sports ministry, which of the following activity will be recognized as a sports discipline and placed it in the priority category?

A. Yoga

B. Aerobics

C. Dance

D. Singing

Answer: A. Yoga

The Ministry also decided to upgrade Fencing from Others to General category, based on the past performance in major international events. It has also been decided to place University Sports in the Priority category. The Ministry also reviewed the categorization of various Sports disciplines and the revised categories of sports disciplines and the scale of financial assistance admissible to each category was conveyed to IOC and all recognized National Sports Federations on 23rd March, 2015.

Question: After how many years Indian Cricket team won the Test Series in Sri Lanka soil?

A. 15 years

B. 22 years

C. 36 years

D. 40 years

Answer: B. 22 years 

On 1st Sep’15 India ended a 22 year long drought of a win over Sri Lanka on Sri Lankan soil, when they clinched their first Test series with the Island ,with an emphatic 117-run victory over the hosts in the third and final cricket Test. India’s last series success in Sri Lanka came under Mohammad Azharuddin’s captaincy in 1993.

Question: For which of the following country, India has emerged as the 8th largest tourism market with over 2 lakh Indians visiting the country previous year?

A. India 

B. China

C. Australia

D. Canada

Answer: C. Australia 

The total number of Indian visiting Australia this year was 2,07,000. In Melbourne, Australian trade minister Andrew Robb said that India was one of the fastest growing markets. Mr. Andrew said that the result demonstrates that tourism is one of its strengths. He said that tourism can be its fastest growing sector this decade if its continues to leverage on the 'clean, green and safe' brand to position itself for tourism.

Question: Indian authorities have accused which company of abusing its dominance in search advertising?

A. Google

B. Microsoft

C. Bing

D. Opera

Answer: A. Google 

The three year inquiry centers on complaints filed by several websites which claimed Google had been unfairly highlighting its own services. The accusations are similar to other allegations Google has faced in the US and Europe. The San Francisco based company says it is confident it will be cleared of wrongdoing in India. The firm has ten days to respond to the findings by the Indian Competition Commission.

Question: India is joining the UN-based Better Than Cash Alliance to ____________

A. reduce cash in its economy.

B. accelerate the transition from cash to digital payments in order to reduce poverty.

C. achieve financial inclusion.

D. All of the above

Answer: D. All of the above 

The new partnership with the Alliance is an extension of Indian Government’s commitment to reduce cash in its economy. The alliance is made up of Governments, companies, and international organizations that accelerate the transition from cash to digital payments in order to reduce poverty and drive inclusive growth. Dr. Ruth Goodwin-Groen, Managing Director of the Better Than Cash Alliance said, India’s leadership and progress are inspirational for countries around the world. He said, by making the digitization of payments to achieve financial inclusion a top priority, India is showing its commitment to improving the lives of its people and driving inclusive growth.

Question:  India has won the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) prize Award of Excellence 2015 for the conservation efforts of the Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple. In which state the temple is located?

A. Andhra Pradesh

B. Karnataka

C. Tamil Nadu

D. Kerala

Answer: D. Kerala 

It was announced on 1st Sep’15. According to UNESCO, the award recognises the conservation effort with conservation techniques emphasising on architecture and construction.

Question: As per the Fitch Ratings released on 1st Sep’15, which of the following banks has been downgraded by one notch to 'bb' to reflect the growing risk to the bank's capital position from its mounting stressed assets?

B. Canara Bank

C. Axis Bank

D. Punjab National Bank

Answer: D. Punjab National Bank 

Rating agency Fitch Ratings downgraded PNB's Viability Rating by one notch to 'bb' on the growing risk to the bank's capital position from a mounting stock of stressed assets.

Question: Who has been appointed as the new Finance Secretary on 31st Aug’15?

A. L C Goyal

B. Rajiv Mehrishi

C. Ratan P Watal

D. Shaktikanta Das

Answer:  C. Ratan P Watal 

He is a 1978-batch IAS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre.

Question: Which of the following banks were declared as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) by the RBI on 31st Aiug’15?

A. SBI

B. ICICI Bank

C. HDFC Bank

D. PNB

Answer: A. SBI & B. ICICI Bank

The D-SIB framework requires RBI to disclose the names of banks designated as D-SIBs every year in August starting from August 2015. Now it is to be interpreted as that these banks are so integral to the economy that their failure would have to be prevented at any cost.

Question: On 1st Sep’15 as announced by the PM Narendra Modi in a parivartan rally in Bihar, through which Finance Commission Bihar will get Rs. 3.74 Lakh Crore in next five years?

A. 12th Finance Commission

B. 13th Finance Commission

C. 14th Finance Commission

D. 15th Finance Commission

Answer: C. 14th Finance Commission 

He also said that this amount is different from the Rs 1.65 lakh crore that he announced earlier.

Question: As per the RBI Guidelines, on which of the following days RTGS facility will not operate?

A. 1st Monday of the month

B. 2nd Saturday of the month

C. 4th Saturday of the month

D. All Saturdays of the month

Answer: B. 2nd Saturday of the month & C. 4th Saturday of the month 

The Reserve Bank has said that the Real-time gross settlement - RTGS system will not be operated on second and fourth Saturdays with banks observing public holiday on those days. In a notification issued from Mumbai, RBI said that the system will operate for full days on working Saturdays of the month. The minimum amount to be remitted through RTGS is Rs 2 lakh while there is no upper ceiling.

Question: On 1st Sep’15, the government accepted the Justice AP Shah Committee report on the Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) on Foreign Institutional Investors. Prior to which date the government will not impose levy tax on FIIs?

A. 1st Apr’14

B. 31st Mar’15

C. 1st Apr’15

D. 31st Aug’15

Answer: C. 1st Apr’15 

The Shah panel's recommendations were applicable only for FIIs and FPIs and did not pertain to cases involving foreign direct investment (FDI). In May , the government set up a panel headed by Justice AP Shah to suggest ways to resolve the MAT dispute as well as some other tax issues. Tax authorities had issued MAT notices to foreign portfolio investors last year which claim of Rs 600 crore.

Question: What is the status of the country's infrastructure sector in July 2015?

A. Increased

B. Decreased

C. No Change

D. None of the above

Answer: B. Decreased 

Growth of the country's infrastructure sector slowed to a 3-month low of 1.1 per cent in July, as the output of crude oil, natural gas and steel contracted. The eight core sectors, which contribute about 38 per cent to the overall industrial production, had grown at 4.1 per cent in July last year.

Question: Which state’s Chief Minister has directed all the departments of the City government to submit their updated guidelines by 4th Sep’15 for the effective implementation of the Citizens Charter?

A. Delhi

B. Uttarakhand

C. Bihar

D. Assam

Answer: A. Delhi 

The Chief Minister also said that the government will provide the technical support to them for ensuring effective implementation of the Citizens Charter. He also said the departments, can add new points in the Citizens Charter next year but it will be mandatory to implement whatever will be mentioned in this charter.

Question: Which of the following states has been conferred 5 awards for outstanding performance in the various fields of Renewable Energy and Power Generation, including first award for highest capacity addition in grid connected solar rooftop power in the country during the financial year 2014-15?

A. Madhya Pradesh

B. Punjab

C. Odisha

D. Chhattisgarh

Answer: B. Punjab 

The other four areas in which Punjab bagged awards includes achieving highest cumulative grid connected solar rooftop power capacity, deployment of highest cumulative numbers of Solar Water Pumps, highest capacity addition of off-grid waste to energy plants and achieving highest capacity addition in grid connected solar power in the country.

Question: Name the new name of the Mount McKinley of North America?

A. Proud of North America

B. Denali

C. Alaskans

D. Arcticans

Answer: B. Denali 

President Barack Obama has said the 20,000 feet peak will revert to the original name given to it by Native Alaskan's, Denali. He made the announcement on the eve of a visit to Alaska for a conference of Arctic Nations. The central Alaska Mountain has officially been called Mount McKinley for almost a century.

Question: Who has developed a mobile based security system for the running trains named “Rakshak scheme” for safety of rail passengers?

A. IIT-Roorkee

B. DRDO

C. Railway Protection Force

D. Government Railway Police

Answer: D. Government Railway Police 

Through Rakshak Scheme security personnel who are on duty in the running trains will be linked with the railway police control rooms. Railway police is taking this project initially as a pilot project and the project has been launched from Allahabad Division of railway police.

Question: What is the theme of the 10th World Hindi Conference (WHC) to be organized in Bhopal from 10th -12th Sept’15?

A. Hindi Jagat: Vistar

B. Hindi: Hamari Matrabhasha

C. Hindi Jagat: Vistar evam sambhavnai

D. Hindi se Jagat

Answer: C. Hindi Jagat: Vistar evam sambhavnai 

The 10th World Hindi Conference (WHC) is to be organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, in partnership with the Government of Madhya Pradesh.

Question: Against which of the following person the Supreme Court upholds ‘ban on entering Goa’?

A. M K Venkatraghvan

B. Giriraj Singh

C. Baba Ramdev

D. Pramod Muthalik

Answer: D. Pramod Muthalik

A bench comprising Chief Justice H L Dattu refused Sri Ram Sene Chief Muthalik's plea and told him to come after six months. Muthalik had moved the Supreme Court challenging the order of the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court which on 2nd July had refused to interfere with the prohibitory order imposed on him and his associates by the state police.

Question: Who has been appointed as new Home Secretary on 31st Aug’15?

A. Ajit Doval

B. L C Goyal

C. Rajiv Mehrishi

D. S K Sharma

Answer: C. Rajiv Mehrishi

Question: What is the GDP growth estimated in first quarter of current financial year?

A. 6.9

B. 7

C. 7.1

D. 8

Answer: B. 7 

GDP at constant prices for April to June this year rose by 7 percent compared to a growth rate of 7.1 percent for the same period in last fiscal. GDP at constant prices at the end of first quarter in june this year stood over 27 lakh crore rupees.

Question: Who is the Chairman of the Law Commission that recommended abolition of death penalty for all crimes other than terrorism related offences and waging war against the state?

A. Justice A P Shah

B. Justice H L Dattu

C. Ravi Prasad 

D. A K Singh

Answer: A. Justice A P Shah 

Chairman of the Commission Justice A P Shah said, in the last decade the Supreme Court has on numerous occasions expressed concern over the arbitrary sentencing in death penalty cases. The recommendation by the nine member panel was, however, not unanimous, with three members dissenting and supporting retention of capital punishment.

AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS 

CURRENT AFFAIRS OCTOBER 2015 (174 Questions) 

Question: Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched a partnership with which company to promote awareness about BBBP scheme?
A. Celtic Mobile Media
B. Celltick Mobile Media
C. CalTech Mobile Media
D. None of the above
Answer: Celltick Mobile Media
Explanation: Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched awareness about Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme in partnership with Celltick Mobile Media India Pvt Ltd. BBBP scheme has been launched to promote gender equity as there has been a steady decline in the number of females born per 1000 males which was 918, according to the 2011 census. This marks the first time the company has collaborated with GoI for a social initiative.
Question: Government has decided to set up which body for implementing tribal welfare schemes on 29th October 2015?
A. National Tribal Council
B. National Tribal Management Council
C. National Tribal Advisory Council
D. None of the above
Answer: National Tribal Advisory Council
Explanation: Council is being set up for monitoring and implementation of various tribal welfare schemes. It will be chaired by the Prime Minister and will meet once or twice in a year. By third quarter of the year, 80% of the funds allocated for tribal welfare will be disseminated.
Question: Which sports body has signed an MoU with SAI on 29th October 2015?
A. Boxing India
B. Hockey India
C. Mumbai Cricket Association
D. Rajasthan Cricket Association
Answer: Hockey India
Explanation: Hockey India has signed a 3 year MoU with SAI to enable hockey to retain its position as the leading sport of the nation. SAI will promote hockey to regain top position in the country and it is also among the most popular sports in the world. Sports Authority of India/SAI will work with HI to also improve the coaching and talent identification system in India.
Question: Which unknown component of the Milky Way has been discovered by a team of astronomers on 29th October 2015?
A. Disc of young stars
B. Disc of old stars
C. Set of comets
D. Shower of meteorites
Answer: Disc of young stars
Explanation: Researchers have discovered unknown component of the Milky Way namely a thin disc of young stars in the central area of the galaxy buried beneath thick clouds of dust. Centre of the Milky Way galaxy consists of numerous old stars, but also has young stars. Researchers used data from VISTA telescope at European Southern Observatory’s Paranal Observatory in Chile, between 2010 and 2014. Bulge of the Milky Way contains very young stars of the type called Cepheids. The stars undergo periodic expansion and contraction, taking anywhere from a few days to months to complete the cycle. The 35 classical Cepheids discovered are lower than 100 millions years old. Classical Cepheids provide fresh evidence that newly formed stars are forming in the central region of the Milky Way over the past 100 million years. As it was buried in a thick cloud of dust, this discovery remained untraceable earlier.
Question: Mammals may have once been able to regenerate ____________, according to German Palaeontologists, on 29th October 2015.
A. Brain
B. Eyes
C. Limbs
D. None of the above
Answer: C. Limbs
Explanation: Amphibian groups around 300 million years prior have regenerated legs and tails like reptiles such as salamanders in a study conducted by Museum fur Naturkunde in Berlin which suggests all land mammals have the ability to regenerate limbs. These extraordinary regenerative capacities were likely lost in the process of evolution.
Question: India is planning to shift to which emission compliant petrol and diesel by 2020 to lower carbon pollution?
A. Euro-V
B. Euro-VI
C. Euro-VII
D. Euro-VIII
Answer: Euro-VI
Explanation: India is shifting to Euro VI emission compliant diesel and petrol by 2020 to lower carbon pollution. BS-III equivalent to Euro-III specifications is already being followed throughout the country and BSIV will be extended to the entire country. Revised auto fuel policy is also on the cards which will lead to introduction of BS-VI fuels by the year 2020. Oil refineries make investments of up to INR 80,000 crore in upgradation of petrol and diesel quality to get access to cleaner fuel specifications by 2020. Fuels meeting Euro IV or Bharat Stage IV specifications will be supplied by the nation by April 2017 and BS-V or Euro-V grade fuel will be supplied by April 1, 2020 as part of the earlier plan. Now, the government is planning to switch directly from BS-IV to BS-VI. While BS-IV fuels have 50 ppm sulphur, BS-V and BS-VI grade fuel will have 10 ppm sulphur. Oil refineries have upgraded technology and made investments of over INR 55,000 crore for production as well as supply of BS-III/IV fuels. Additional INR 80,000 crore investment is needed for further upgradation.
Question: Total cotton output has been estimated at which value for 2015-2016 beginning October 1st?
A. 370.80 lakh bales
B. 370.70 lakh bales
C. 370.60 lakh bales
D. 370.50 lakh bales
Answer: 370.50 lakh bales
Explanation: Country’s total cotton output has been pegged at 370.50 lakh bales for 2015-2016 commencing October 1st, according to an industrial body, CAI or Cotton Association of IndiA. This is 12.25 lakh bales less than 382.75 lakh bales for the cotton season 2014-2015. Impact of this fall in crop will be softened by highest ever opening stock at the commencement of 2015-2016. Domestic consumption of cotton is also on the decline. Crop damage in the northern zone due to the white fly disease has become a major cause for concern. Total crop adjudged in the northern zone equals 47 lakh bales for this year as against 53.50 lakh bales last year. Projected balance sheet drawn by CAI assesses the estimated cotton value for the season to be 463.15 lakh bales as against 53.50 lakh bales in 2014. Projected balance sheet by CAI estimates total cotton output supply at 463.15 lakh bales while consumption is pegged at 325.00 lakh bales leaving additional amount of 138.15 lakh bales.
Question: A group of how many filmmakers returned their national awards in support of FTII protests and to highlight the rising intolerance in the nation?
A. 8
B. 9
C. 10
D. 11
Answer: 10
Explanation: Filmmakers on 28th October 2015 returned national awards in light of rising intolerance in the country and in support of protesting FTII students. 10 filmmakers including Dibakar Banerjee, Paresh Kamdar and eight other filmmakers returned their awards while extending support to the FTII students, who have been protesting against the appointment of Gajendra Chauhan as the institute's chairman. Other film directors who returned their awards include Lipika Singh, Nishtha Jain, Anand Patwardhan, Kirti Nakhwa, Harsh Kulkarni, Hari Nair.
Question: Which Indian software company has won a 5 year IT contract from Coop Norge Handel AS/Coop Norge, a leading Norway retailer?
A. HCL
B. Infosys
C. Wipro
D. TCS
Answer: Wipro
Explanation: Wipro has indicated that it has won a 5 year IT contract from Coop Norge Handel AS/Coop Norge. The latter is a leading Norwegian retailer. As per the agreement, Wipro will transform the enterprise SAP software landscape of this Norway retailer and upgrade the data centre infrastructure of the company. IT engagement will benefit supply chain and distribution operations at the Norway retailer besides other functions. This will enable Coop Norge to strengthen its operating modern with enhanced reach and availability. Coop Norge has market share of 33% with over 1500 stores.
Question: Which Japanese company will sell its image sensor business to Sony Corp as per an announcement on 28th October 2015?
A. Onida
B. Hyundai
C. Samsung
D. Toshiba
Answer: Toshiba
Explanation: Japan’s Toshiba Corp has made arrangements to sell its image sensor business to Sony Corp and overhaul unprofitable semiconductor business as it seeks to recover from USD 1.3 billion accounting scandal. The company will send its image censoring manufacturing plant in Oita, southern Japan to Sony towards the close of the fiscal year in March and move out of the sensor business, company indicated in a joint statement. Sony will employ the 1,100 workers of the sensor business. Deal is valued around 20 billion yen. Toshiba is also set to withdraw from its LED business which is part of the semiconductor division.
Question: Centre has given approval for which international airport project on 28th October 2015?
A. Mopa, Goa
B. Dispur, Assam
C. Patna, Bihar
D. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Answer: Mopa, Goa
Explanation: Centre has given the approval for an INR 3000 crore new international project at Mopa village in GoA. This airport will be developed in 4 phases and will have annual passenger capacity of 13.1 million within 30 years by 2045. This will serve business and tourism markets. Estimated cost of project in phase 1 is around INR 1500 crore. Tenders for new airport at Mopa will be finalised by 2015. The village is located in Northern Goa, around 35 km from Panaji.
Question: Archaeologists have made which startling discovery at Pylos, Greece on 28th October 2015?
A. A warrior’s tools
B. A warrior’s grave
C. A warrior’s vest
D. None of the above
Answer: A warrior’s grave
Explanation: Archeologists digging at Pylos, an ancient city in southwest Greece has discovered a grave of a warrior buried at the dawn of European civilisation. He has a bronze sword and collection of rings, jewels and seals. This is the first time since the 1950s that such a rich tomb has been founD. The warrior was buried around 1500 BC, next to the site on Pylos on which, many years later, arose the palace of Nestor, a large administrative centre that was destroyed in 1180 BC, about the same time as Homer's Troy. The palace was part of the Mycenaean civilisation.
Question: Senior IAS officer ______________ was appointed as Secretary in Ministry of Steel on 28th October 2015.
A. Kamla Sunderajan
B. Aruna Sunderajan
C. Sujata Singh
D. None of the above
Answer: Aruna Sunderajan
Explanation: In a top level bureaucratic reshuffle by the government, senior IAS officer Aruna Sunderajan was appointed as Secretary in the Ministry of Steel as part of a top bureaucratic reshuffle. Currently Administrator, Universal Service Obligation Fund under Department of Telecommunications. she has been appointed to replace Rakesh Singh, who superannuated on September 30, an order issued by DoPT saiD. She is among five new Secretaries appointed by the government.
Question: Name the NE city where the SAF/ South Asian Federation Games 2016 are being held?
A. Dispur
B. Itanagar
C. Shillong
D. Aizawl
Answer: Shillong
Explanation: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs & Sports, Sarbananda Sonowal on 28 October 2015 inaugurated Games Secretariat of the SAF games at Meghalaya’s capital Shillong. This marks the first time an event of international level is taking place in NE IndiA. The Secretariat would oversee the smooth functioning of the SAF Games.The 12th SAF Games will be held in Guwahati and Shillong from 6 February to 16 February 2016.
Question: CM Panel constituted by NITI Aayog to rationalise CSS has hiked flexi fund component to 25 from current _____ percent.
A. 6
B. 8
C. 9
D. 10
Answer: 10
Explanation: CM Panel constituted by NITI Aayog for rationalising CSS has argued for reducing the number and hiking flexi fund component to 25% fro current 10%. The convenor of the group is MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The panel has categorised CSS into three categories -- core of the core, core and optional scheme -- for determining funding pattern. For the core of the core schemes such as MGNREGA, panel has register no changes in find sharing. In case of core schemes, panel has made the suggestion that fund sharing will be divided in the ratio of 90:10 percent between Centre and State for NE and J&K. For ordinary states, the sharing ratio will be 60:40. For optional schemes, centre and state share should be 80:20 for hilly, NE and J&K and 50:50 for ordinary states.
Question: Indian veteran film maker Adoor Gopalkrishnan and critic Aruna Vasudev will be honoured at which edition of the International Film Festival of Colombo?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: Second
Explanation: Indian film maker Adoor Gopalakrishnan and film critic Aruna Vasudev will receive the lifetime achievement award at the second edition of this festival to be held in Colombo from November 7 to 11. Close to 100 films from different nations will be shown free of charge to public at different locations in Colombo. Films that will be screened include Guru Dutt directed Pyassa and Adoor’s Elippathayam, and Baldvin Zophoníasson’s Vonarstræti. Festival will also showcase films made in different nations such as China, Brazil, Iran and France.
Question: Which Indian film has won the BNL People’s Choice Award at the 10th Rome Film Festival?
A. Water
B. Fire
C. Angry Indian Goddesses
D. The Lunchbox
Answer: Angry Indian Goddesses
Explanation: Director Pan Nalin’s film, Angry Indian Goddesses in October 2015 was awarded with BNL People’s Choice Award at the 10th Rome Film Festival held in Rome, Italy. Winner was selected through online voting. It also won honours at earlier festivals such as the 2015 International Toronto Film Festival. The drama film stars Sandhya Mridul along with Tannishtha Chatterjee and Sarah Jane Dias.
Question: Which party won major number of seats in the Polish elections on 27th October 2015?
A. Law and Justice Party
B. Civic Platform
C. Justice and Law Party
D. None of the above
Answer: Law and Justice Party
Explanation: The state election authority announced on 27th October that right wing and anti migrant law and Justice Party has won major share of seats in the Polish parliament and can govern alone. Party received 235 seats in 460 seat lower house of Polish Parliament and also snared a majority in the Senate. The outgoing ruling party Civic Platform was criticised for accepting refugees as part of EU resettlement plan.
Question: Which Indian origin peer in UK recently passed away on 27th October 2015?
A. Lord Swraj Paul
B. Lord Gulam Noon
C. Lord Meghnad Desai
D. None of the above
Answer: Lord Gulam Noon
Explanation: Lord Gulam Noon, one of UK’s most well known Indian origin peers and curry king of the UK has died at the age of 79 on 27th October 2015. Mumbai-origin Lord Noon founded the 200-million pound Noon Products business which is credited with Britain developing a taste for curry and chicken tikka masalA. He succumbed to liver cancer and was known as the first Curry King in the UK. Lord Noon was awarded Lifetime Achievement Award by the Opposition in February this year.
Question: Which archer bagged a silver medal at Archery World Cup Final in Mexico City in October 2015?
A. Chou Misun
B. Deepika Kumari
C. Bombayala Devi
D. Dola Banerjee
Answer: Deepika Kumari
Explanation: Indian archer Deepika Kumari has won the silver medal in the Archery World Cup Final held in Mexico City losing first place to South Korea’s Chou Misun. She is currently world number 5. She won her first World Cup individual stage recurve gold medal at Turkey in 2012. She is also the winner of the 2012 Arjuna award and FICCI sportsperson of the year in 2014.
Question: Who has resigned from Dish TV on October 27, 2015?
A. Subhash Chandra
B. R.C. Venkateish
C. Mintoo Bhandari
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Promoter director S. Chandra and CEO R. C. Venkateish have resigned while company has appointed Jawahar Lal Goel as Board Chairman. Chandra’s resignation took effect from October 27, 2015. Board also accepted resignations of Mintoo Bhandari, non-executive nominee director and his Alternate Director Utsav Baijal.
Question: Which part of the cortex has been implicated in Alzheimer’s disease on 26th October 2015 by scientists?
A. Cerebral cortex
B. Temporal Lobe
C. Frontal Lobe
D. Entorhinal cortex
Answer: Entorhinal cortex
Explanation: Young adults with increased risk of Alzheimer’s from a genetic perspective have activation patterns in brain region critical for spatial navigation. The grid cell system in the entorhinal cortex was exampled by German researchers. In this cortex, grid cells fire in spatial grid pattern. Risk carriers have a less stable grid pattern in the entorhinal cortex decades before they develop this dementiA. They also moved less frequently in centre of virtual landscape which suggests altered navigation strategy.
Question: Which latest innovation has been developed by Chinese biotech firm Sichuan Revotek?
A. World’s first 3D blood vessel bio printer
B. World’s first 3D printer
C. World’s first 3D bio printer
D. None of the above
Answer: World’s first 3D blood vessel bio printer
Explanation: Chinese firm Sichuan Revotek has said a considerable breakthrough has been received through self developed 3D bio-printer and cloud computing platform. This 3d blood vessel bio-printer makes it easy to produce personalised functional organs. Through this innovation, the stem based 3D bio-printing technology has been plastereD. Blood vessel carry nutrients to organs and play a vital role in organ formation. The research team developed a new bio-ink called "Biosynsphere", whose primary goal is the personalised stem cell bio-printing to pave the way for organ regeneration.
Question: Which position has India retained in ICC ODI ranking regardless of 2-3 series defeat in S. Africa in Mumbai?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: Second
Explanation: India has retained second place in ICC ODI rankings despite 2-3 series defeat to S. Africa in Mumbai. S. Africa reclaimed third position in the rankings. Skipper AB. de Villiers retained his number one ranking in the latest ICC ranking.
Question: Which Indian cricketer climbed up two rungs to 6th place in the latest ICC rankings?
A. M. S. Dhoni
B. Ajinkya Rahane
C. Virat Kohli
D. None of the above
Answer: M. S. Dhoni
Explanation: Indian skipper M. S. Dhoni climbed up two rungs to sixth place in ICC batsmen rankings released on 26th October 2015. He holds a 11 point advantage over Shikar Dhawan. Other cricketers who experienced gains include Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit SharmA. Captain Virat Kohli is second after scoring 3 sets of 100 runs in 5 matches. Hashim Alma dropped to fifth place. For bowling, Mitchell Starc from Australia retained the top spot.
Question: Which census was conducted jointly by the WWF and forest department under National Mission for Clean Ganga in October 2015?
A. My Ganga My Dolphin
B. Ganga River Dolphin Census
C. Indian Dolphin Survey
D. None of the above
Answer: Ganga River Dolphin Census
Explanation: Census was conducted under “My Ganga My Dolphin” project by WWF and forest department under the National Mission for Clean GangA. Survey found 1263 dolphins in UP as against 671 in 2012 census. Survey also found there were 116 dolphins in a 215 km stretch of river from Allahabad to Varanasi, the confluence of Ganga and Gomti. Ganga River Dolphin Census was conducted following a survey of 700 community members across 80 villages across the river. Stretches of rivers like Gandhak and Rapti recorded an increase while Narora recorded a decrease. No dolphins were found in Ken, Son and Ramganga.
Question: Which species has been listed as under threat by a WWF study on 26th October 2015?
A. Sunderbans Tiger
B. Snow Leopard
C. White Fronted Lemur
D. None of the above
Answer: Sunderbans Tiger
Explanation: From the 12 species highlighted by National Geographic in current volume, Sunderbans tiger is predicted to face maximum threat. Predicted 11 inch rise above sea levels from 2000 will destroy most tiger habitat within this region according to a WWF led study. Bangladesh Sunderbans is set to decline by 96% as far as tiger habitats are concerned and number of breeding individuals will fall below 20. Other species said to suffer from climate change include woodland caribou, Arctic fox, spectacled eider (a northern duck) and Bengal tiger. Scientists from World Bank and IESWM have also sounded the alarm over shrinking tiger habitat in the Indian Sunderbans. Scientists found 11 islands that will disappear over the next 30 years on account of rising sea level of which 3 islands are tiger habitats.
Question: Investment through P-Notes into the Indian capital market rose to ______ lakh crore at the close of September 2015, according to SEBI.
A. 2.52
B. 2.53
C. 2.54
D. 2.55
Answer: 2.54
Explanation: Investment through Participatory Notes within India’s capital market rose by INR 2.54 lakh crore or USD 39 billion towards the close of September from the earlier month. Before this, investment through this route had been declining in 3 months from June to August. This marks the highest investment of P-Notes since February 2008. As per SEBI data, total value of P-Notes investment in Indian markets (equity, debt and derivatives) increased to INR 2,53,875 crore at September-end, from INR 2,53,310 crore in the previous month.
Question: David Cameron government has included which profession in the shortage occupation list on 25th October 2015?
A. Nursing
B. Doctor
C. Psychologist
D. Engineer
Answer: Nursing
Explanation: In a good move for Indian nurses in the UK, the British government has included nursing as a profession in the shortage occupation list. This included 30,000 overseas nurses who had earlier been facing the threat of unemployment under new immigration rules. NHS had earlier made the announcement that nurses could stay in UK only if they earned a minimum of £35,000 a year. This meant that a majority of the nurses would have had to leave UK earlier.
Question: The first international report for the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering released on 26th October has found that majority of students in which country are interested in engineering profession?
A. UK
B. US
C. India
D. China
Answer: India
Explanation: The first global report commissioned by Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering has revealed 20% of 16 to 17 year olds from the United Kingdom and 30% from the US pursue engineering as against 80% in India, the latter being the highest in the worlD. The report also found India has bridged the gender divide in engineering to a low of 14% in 2015. Globally, while 66% of the men are interested in engineering, the figure is 43% for women.
Question: Which HC has indicated that castration of rapists is the solution for spiralling sex offences against children on 25th October 2015?
A. Madras
B. New Delhi
C. Patna
D. Guwahati
Answer: Madras
Explanation: Madras HC has ruled that castration should be performed on child rapists. This would curb crimes against children. In case of child sex offences, the conviction rate is just 2.4 percent and between 2008 to 2014, crimes against children increased by 400 percent. Additional punishment of castration of child rapists would prevent and contain child abuses, the court ruleD. Chemical castration has now come into force in several nations including the US. The court passed the judgement on a plea from a foreigner facing pedophile charges in TN. Castration is done on child sex abusers in Poland, Russia, Estonia and nine US states including California, Oregon, Florida, Texas and Washington. S. Korea has become the first Asian nation to make castration of child sex offenders a punishment. Number of cases of child abuse rose from 38,172 in 2012 to 58,224 in 2013 and to 89,423 in 2014 in India.
Question: Which country sealed its first ever bilateral series win in India on 25th October 2015?
A. Pakistan
B. Bangladesh
C. Sri Lanka
D. South Africa
Answer: South Africa
Explanation: In the 5th ODI between India and S. Africa, the latter beat the hosts by 214 runs sealing the first ever bilateral series win in the country. Centuries were scored by AB de Villiers, Quinton de Kock and Faf du Plessis attaining a massive 3-2 series win.
Question: Which noted Bengali film personality passed away following an accident on 25th October 2015?
A. Pijush Ganguly
B. Mithun Chakrabortty
C. Anil Chatterjee
D. Zahid Hasan
Answer: Pijush Ganguly
Explanation: Veteran Bengali actor Pijush Ganguly succumbed to multiple organ failure after an accident where he was critically injured on 25th October 2015. He was 50 years of age at the time of his death. Known for films such as ‘Gaynar Baksho,’ (Aparna Sen), ‘Byomkesh Bakshi,’ (Anjan Dutta) ‘Autograph,’ (Srijit Mukherjee) and ‘Anshumaner Chhabi,’ (Atanu Ghosh), the actor was famous in the industry. CM Mamata Banerjee condoled his demise.
Question: Bhimtal based butterfly expert Peter Smetacek has authored which book on butterflies in India on 25th October 2015?
A. The Synoptic Catalogue of the Butterflies of India
B. Butterflies in India: A Critical Examination
C. Butterflies in India: A Taxonomy
D. None of the above
Answer: The Synoptic Catalogue of the Butterflies of India
Explanation: Bhimtal based butterfly expert on Indian species Peter Smetacek has authored a book “The Synoptic Catalogue of Butterflies of India”. It has been edited by him and retired Additional Director, ZSI, Dr. R. K. Varshney. The catalogue features 1318 new butterfly species in India and gives details of state wise and sub species of butterflies in the state.
Question:  Afghanistan became the first ______ nation to defeat Test playing country in one day series with comprehensive 73 run win against Zimbabwe.
A. Associate
B. Asian
C. SE Asian
D. None of the above
Answer: Associate
Explanation: Afghanistan created history on 24th October 2015 when they became the first Associate nation to defeat a Test playing nation in an ODIs series with massive 73 run win over Zimbabwe. This ensured that Afghanistan will secure a 3-2 series win following the first 4 games between the two sides.
Question: United Nations celebrated its ____ anniversary with the global campaign “Turn the World UN Blue”.
A. 69th
B. 70th
C. 71st
D. 72nd
Answer: 70th
Explanation: Leading iconic landmarks in the world were lit blue to celebrate the UN 70th anniversary on 24th October 2015. These included the Edinburgh castle, Great Wall of China, Pyramid of Giza and New Delhi’s Red Fort as well as the temples of Baalbek in Lebanon.
Question: Famous cartoonist R.K. Laxman’s ____ birth anniversary was celebrated on 24th October 2005.
A. 92nd
B. 93rd
C. 94th
D. 95th
Answer: 94th
Explanation: Cartoonist R. K. Laxman’s 94th birth anniversary was celebrated on 24th October 2015 by Google which showcased his work. Laxman was born in 1921 in Mysore. He was the youngest child and his elder brother was renowned novelist R. K. Narayan. Prior to TOI, he had worked for Blitz and Free Press Journal. He was the winner of numerous awards such as Padma Bhushan and Magsaysay award.
Question: Which is the new capital of AP?
A. Guntur
B. Vijayawada
C. Nellore
D. Amravati
Answer: Amravati
Explanation: PM Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone of the new capital city of Amravati in AP at Uddandayauruni Palem village. This is one of the 3 villages were seed capital will be established, the other two being Lingayapalem and Thallayapalem. The need for a capital city became necessary as the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014 mandated that Hyderabad will be the common capital for AP and Telangana for just 10 years. After this, it will remain the capital of the latter state. Amravati is derived from the capital city of the Satavahana rulers.
Question: Which three Baltic states have signed a grant agreement in GIPL in Brussels, Belgium with Poland in October 2015?
A. Lithuania, Estonia and Belgium
B. Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia
C. Czechoslovakia, Estonia and Latvia
D. Slovenia, Latvia and Estonia
Answer: Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia
Explanation: Poland and 3 Baltic states- Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia signed a grant agreement on Gas Interconnector Poland-Lithuania in Brussels, Belgium. Agreement facilities first gas pipeline between Poland and LithuaniA. Agreement was signed by reps of 3 countries at the EU headquarters.
Question: Ministry of Defence took which landmark decision on 24th October 2015?
A. Induct women into IAF
B. Induct women into combat stream of IAF
C. Induct women into technical staff of IAF
D. None of the above
Answer: Induct women into combat stream of IAF
Explanation: Ministry of Defence on 24th October 2015 has given the approval for the induction of women into the IAF combat stream, clearing the way for women to fly warplanes for the first time. First batch of women pilots will be commissioned into IAF in June 2016. Earlier in the week, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha has announced a major policy shift indicating women should be allowed to become fighter pilots. Currently, there are 1500 women in IAF of which 90 are pilots and 15 are navigators.
Question: Haryana CM announced the launch of NILP for HHPUC. What does NILP and HPPUC stand for?
A. New Integrated Licensing Policy and Hyper and High Potential Urban Complexes
B. National Integrated Licensing Policy and Hyper and High Potential Urban Complexes
C. National Integrated License Policy and Hyper and High Potential Urbanised Complexes
D. None of the above
Answer: National Integrated Licensing Policy and Hyper and High Potential Urban Complexes
Explanation: HHPUC will be created in the following areas- Gurgaon-Manesar, Faridabad-Ballabhgarh, Sohna, Sonepat-Kundli, Panipat and Panchkula - Kalka-Pinjore. NILP 2015 policy will also bring acclaimed models of TDR/Transferable Development Rights along with unique provisions to the state.
Question: Department of Heavy Industry in consultation with the industry has drafted a National Policy on _______ Goods.
A. Capital
B. Consumer
C. Import
D. Export
Answer: Capital
Explanation: Department of Heavy Industry in consultation with bodies and associations drafted a National Policy on Capital Goods. This marks the first time a policy on Capital Goods is being put together. This is the most important sector for attaining the vision of Make in IndiA. National Policy on Capital Goods seeks to set up India as a manufacturing major in the world.
Question: Noted writers from Maharashtra returned literary awards to protest culture of intolerance in the nation. These include:
A. Ganesh Visputay
B. Sambhaji Bhagat
C. Pradnya Pawar
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Noted Marathi writers Ganesh Visputay, Sambhaji Bhagat and Pradnya Pawar are among a group that returned their awards on 23rd October to the MantralayA. The writers also urged others to join the stir to protest against the Dadri lynching. Pawar, an ex member of Maharashtra State Literary and Cultural Board has handed back 5 awards. The protest was also launched against the murder of rationalists. Condemning the killing of writer Kalburgi, Sahitya Akademi has appealed ed to writers to stake back their resignations.
Question: Industrialist A. Vellayan has resumed charge as Chairman of which corporate group?
A. Muthoot Finance
B. Murugappa
C. South India Group
D. Chettinad
Answer: Murugappa
Explanation: Industrialist A. Vellayan has resumed charge as Chairman of Murugappa Group following 5 months after stepping aside from the post after regulatory authority had placed insider trading charges against him. Following the assessment of ongoing proceedings against alleged insider trading after expert legal advice on this matter, he was reappointeD. Vellayen has stepped aside as Chairman of Murugappa Group and two group firms, Coromandel International and EID Parry.
Question: Which artistes have won the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award 2015?
A. Ashwini Bhide Deshpande
B. Iqbal Ahmed Khan
C. Nath Neralkar
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: 9 artistes including Ashwini Bide Deshpande, Iqbal Ahmed Khan, Nath Neralkar, Nayan Ghosh and Ronu Majumdar received awards for their contribution to music while eight eminent dancers were also honoureD. A total of 35 Indian personalities were conferred the Akademi awards. Other winners include folk singer Abdul Rashid Hafiz and noted playwright Asgar Wajahat. The awards carry a cash prize of INR 1 lakh.
Question: Which famous nuclear scientist has taken over as Chairman Atomic Energy Commission on 23rd October 2015?
A. Dr. S. Basu
B. Dr. D. Basu
C. Dr. R. K. Sinha
D. Dr. A. K. Sinha
Answer: Dr. S. Basu
Explanation: Dr. Basu has taken over as Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary DAE on 23rd October 2015. Dr. R. K. Sinha remitted his office following superannuation after 42 years of service. Dr. Basu was previously the Director of BARC and has also worked as Project Director of Nuclear Submarine Programme and later as the Chief Executive of the Nuclear Recycle Board in the same institute.
Question: Zambia’s Independence day is celebrated on _____ October 2015.
A. 22
B. 23
C. 24
D. 25
Answer: 23
Explanation: Zambia celebrated its independence day on 23rd October 2015. It is a landlocked country in AfricA. This is the 51st Independence Day Zambia has celebrateD. President Pranab Mukherjee greeted the country on this day.
Question: RBI has indicated on 23rd October, 2015 that lenders will count short term bullion deposits under the gold monetisation scheme as part of the following:
A. CRR
B. SLR
C. Both of the above
D. Neither of the above
Answer: Both of the above
Explanation: RBI has allowed lenders to count short term bullion deposits under the gold monetisation scheme as part of CRR or SLR. This will increase the appeal of the plan for this sector. This measure is part of RBI guidelines for gold scheme aimed at ensuring Indian households deposit gold at lenders in exchange for interest rate payments. RBI has indicated it will permit banks to take minimum deposit of 30 grams of gold from persons which will be placed in the bullion for a period of one to 15 years. Short term bank deposits will attract CRR and SLR. The stock of gold mobilised as per the scheme by banks will count for general SLR requirement. This will provide additional capital to banks for lending in productive sectors. CRR is the portion of total deposits to be placed with RBI in cash and SLR is the portion of the deposit parked in government securities. Banks have to set aside 4% of total deposit for CRR while 21.5 percent is for meeting SLR requirement. There will be provision for premature withdrawal subject to minimum long in period and penalty will be assessed by individual banks.
Question: According to an HSBC report released on 22nd October 2015, rural India is facing _____________ across major categories such as fuel,core and food.
A. Disinflation
B. Excess Inflation
C. Rural Inflation
D. None of the above
Answer: Excess Inflation
Explanation: Regardless of the fact that overall inflation has fallen considerably in past few months, the benefits will not be distributed equally with rate of price rise higher in rural as compared to urban areas. Rural inflation has not fallen as much as urban inflation. Excess inflation rural India is facing is across major sub categories such as core, food and fuel. Structural bottlenecks are preventing rural areas from benefiting from global disinflation, according to the report.
Question: India is the top trade facilitation performer in which region according to a UNESCAP report released in October 2015?
A. East Asia
B. South Asia
C. SE Asia
D. Asia
Answer: South Asia
Explanation: India is the leading trade facilitation performer in the South Asian sub region. Singapore and Korea lead East Asia in effective movement of goods, as per a UNESCAP repot entitled Global Report of the Trade Facilitation and Paperless Trade Implementation Survey. This report was launched by UNESCAP with 4 UN regional commissions on 22nd October 2015. This is the first global report regarding implementation of measures for simplifying import, export and transit procedures. Russia and Turkey lead in Europe and Central Asia, as per the report. Next generation trade facilitation measures also have the potential to lower costs and increase trade.
Question: Which is the hottest month since records were being kept in January 1880 according to US NOAA?
A. September
B. October
C. November
D. August
Answer: September
Explanation: September 2015 was the hottest month ever recorded since records were being kept in January 1880, as announced by US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Of 5 consecutive months commencing from May within this year, the year has broken all previous records for higher temperatures, according to the NOAA monthly State of Climate Global Analysis. High temperature indicates uncontrolled effect of rising GHG in the atmosphere. The report also found that oceans were warmer than the average across rapid expanses and the year had witnessed the one of the strongest El Nino recordeD. India has faced a 14 percent deficit in monsoon rains.
Question: Saina Nehwal has lost her World No. 1 spot to which ace shuttler on 22nd October 2015?
A. P.V. Sindhu
B. Carolina Marin
C. Lin Dan
D. Yu Yang
Answer: Carolina Marin
Explanation: Ace Indian badminton player S. Nehwal lost her World Number 1 spot to World Champion Carolina Marin in an update of BWF rankings on 22nd October 2015. Her performance in the previous two tournaments- Japan Open and Denmark Open has led to a fall to position no.2 in women’s singles. P. V. Sindhu retained the rank 13 despite reaching the Denmark Open final. In men’s singles, players like K. Srikanth, P. Kashyap and H. S. Prannoy dropped in rankings.
Question: Colour of which famous artist’s painting is changing over time due to mixture of pigments used in painting?
A. Van Gogh
B. Rembrandt
C. Picasso
D. Monet
Answer: Van Gogh
Explanation: Scientists have found that the colour of Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers is changing across time due to mixture of pigments used in the painting. The study also identified areas of the painting that should be monitored particularly closely for any changes. van Gogh (1853-1890) is known for his use of chrome/bright yellows, a class of compounds including lead, chromium and oxygen. Lighter shades had sulphur mixed in them. Three versions of the painting are currently on dupls. in London, Tokyo and Amsterdam museums.
Question: Britain has signed a landmark nuclear deal with which Asian country on 21st October 2015?
A. Japan
B. China
C. India
D. Pakistan
Answer: China
Explanation: Britain has signed a landmark nuclear deal with China on 21st October 2015 to open the nation’s first nuclear power plant since the 80s. The agreement is between EDF and CGN to build the power plant at Hinkley Point in Somerset. During President Xi’s 4 day visit to the UK, more than 30 billion pounds worth of deals are expected to be signed.
Question: Which famous Indian golfer has been crowned the Asian Tour Golfer of the Month?
A. Jyoti Randhawa
B. Anirban Lahiri
C. Gaurav Ghel
D. Shiv Kapur
Answer: Anirban Lahiri
Explanation: Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri won the inaugural Hilton Asian Tour Golfer of the Month Award based on his performance in the months from June to September. Lahiri (b 1987) turned professional in 2007. He has also won the Arjuna Award for Golf, besides being the first Indian to be part of the President Cups International team. He is ranked 39th in the world and is currently leading the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
Question: Union Cabinet has accorded approval for signing the MLAT in criminal matters between India and Maldives. What does MLAT stand for?
A. Mutual Legally Assisted Treaty
B. Major Legal Assistance Treaty
C. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty
D. None of the above
Answer: Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty
Explanation: Union Cabinet on 21st October 2015 approved the signing of MLAT in criminal matters with Maldives. Treaty is oriented towards boosting the role of both countries in prosecution and investigation of crime via mutual legal assistance and cooperation in anti- transnational crime and anti-terrorism investigations. Proposed treaty will be part of a broader framework for cooperation with Maldives.Mutual legal assistance treaty involves gathering information and data exchange. It is for the enforcement of public or anti-criminal laws.
Question: Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the UN released a report entitled______________________ on October 20, 2015.
A. The Women of the World 2015:Trends and Statistics
B. The World’s Women 2015: Trends
C. The Women of the World 2015:Statistics
D. The World’s Women 2015:Trends and Statistics
Answer: The World’s Women 2015:Trends and Statistics
Explanation: Report indicates there are around 62 million more men than women worldwide. In younger age groups, men outnumber women while the reverse is true for older age groups. Life expectancy over the past 20 years has increased for both genders- 72 for women and 68 for men. Men are at higher risk than women of dying of cardiovascular disease. An estimated 58 million children of primary school age- 31 million being girls- are not in school. Two thirds of the 781 million illiterate adults in the world constitute women. As against three quarters of men, half of the women participate in the labour force. Number of female Heads of State was 19 in 2015, as against 12 in 1995. Women across the globe, irrespective of age, income or education are subject to different types of violence. Research also found that majority of deaths due to inadequate water, hygiene and sanitation was among women and girls in some parts of AsiA. On an average, 1 in 3 married women in developing nations have no involvement in major household purchases.
Question: Which South Korean pianist won the prestigious 17th International Frederic Chopin Piano competition 2015?
A. Seong-Jin Cho
B. Dong Min-Lim
C. Joyce Yang
D. Sunwook Kim
Answer: Seong-Jin Cho
Explanation: Seong-Jin Cho, South Korea aged 21 has won the International Frederic Chopin Piano competition in Warsaw in 2015. The second prize winner was Charles Richard-Hamelin of Canada while the third prize was conferred on Kate Liu of the US. The competition is held once in 5 years and is a launching pad for internationally acclaimed pianists.
Question: Which noted Indian criminologist has been conferred the IIPA Paul H. Appleby Award 2015?
A. S. R. Singh
B. Madhulika Sharma
C. Dr. Avinash Chandra Rajvanshi
D. K. Chockalingam
Answer: K. Chockalingam
Explanation: Veteran criminologist K. Chockalingam in the 4th week of October 2015 was conferred the Paul. H. Appleby Award by IIPA. He has been professor and researcher in the field of criminology in Madras University is Vice President of World Society of Victimology. He has also worked as Chair Professor of Criminal Law in NLU, Delhi from 2012-2014. He has authored more than 4 books and 75 research papers apart from winning awards such as Distinguished International Scholar Award of American Society of Criminology. He has also been founder and president of various societies for criminologists in India and abroad.
Question: Which former Indian cricketer has been named as brand ambassador of Raipur Rangers, a CTS franchise?
A. Sachin Tendulkar
B. Rahul Dravid
C. Anil Kumble
D. Dilip Vengsarkar
Answer: Anil Kumble
Explanation: Raipur Rangers, a franchise of the Champions Tennis League has appointed Anil Kumble as a brand ambassador. Rapid Rangers is co-owned by A. Mishra and C. Tiwari. It constitutes players like Ramanathan Ramkumar and Thomas Muster. CTL was conceived by former Indian tennis ace Vijay Amritraj in 2014.
Question: Which well known marine biologist passed away on October 20, 2015 at the age of 88?
A. N. Gopalkrishnan
B. N. Gopalkrishna Pillai
C. N. R Menon
D. Syed Zahoor Qasim
Answer: Syed Zahoor Qasim
Explanation: Acclaimed marine biologist Syed Zahoor Qasim passed away on October 20, 2015 in New Delhi at the age of 88. He was the father of Polar Biology in IndiA. He also participated in the first Indian expedition to Antarctica in 1981-1982. Following the first expedition, he organised and guided the remaining 7 expeditions till 1988 and contributed in areas such as environmental pollution, estuarine ecology and marine culture. He has close to 200 original research papers in national and international journals to his credit. He has been awarded Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan by the Union Government. An erstwhile Planning Commission member and served as VC of Jamia Millia Islamia University.
Question: Government on 21st October approved a proposal for maritime transport agreement with which country?
A. Ethiopia
B. Egypt
C. Israel
D. Palestine
Answer: Egypt
Explanation: Government on 21st October 2015 has approved the proposal for a maritime transport agreement with Egypt. The agreement will be signed to strengthen cooperation and render mutual assistance on merchant shipping and other maritime matters. Agreement will be signed to help the countries facilitate development of maritime relationship and cooperate for steady growth of maritime traffic.
Question: E-commerce major, Snapdeal, has announced the appointment of which telecom executive as its CFO?
A. Arup Vikal
B. Anup Vikal
C. Kaizad Herjee
D. None of the above
Answer: Anup Vikal
Explanation: E-commerce major Snapdeal on 20th October 2015 announced appointment of Anup Vikal as its chief financial officer. Vikal was earlier the CFO at telecom major Aircel. He will be replacing Aakash MoondhrA. In August 2015, Snapdeal raised $ 500 million led by Foxconn and Alibaba and existing investors like SoftBank also took party. Prior to joining Aircel, Vikal was group-CFO & head of strategy and IT at InterGlobe Enterprises. He had earlier worked for Colt Technology for three years and headed finance division at Bharti Airtel for around seven years. He has a bachelor's degree in engineering from NIT Surat and MBA from a South Gujarat university.
Question: Which UN Body released report entitled Gender and Education for All (EFA) 2000-2015 Achievements and Challenges in October 2015?
A. UNESCO
B. UNCTAD
C. UNICEF
D. WHO
Answer: UNESCO
Explanation: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in October 2015 released a report titled “Gender and Education for All (EFA) 2000-2015: Achievements and Challenges,” compiled by UNESCO’s Global Monitoring Report and UN Girl’s Education Initiative. Only fewer than half the nations in the world have attained gender parity in primary and secondary education prior to 2005, as per the report.
Question: WHO released which report on 19th October 2015?
A. Global status report on road safety 2015
B. International report on road safety 2015
C. Report on car safety 2015
D. None of the above
Answer: Global status report on road safety 2015
Explanation: World Health Organization (WHO) on 19 October 2015 released the Global status report on road safety 2015 showing information from 180 countries and indicating that worldwide the total number of road traffic deaths has gone up to 1.25 million per year. It also showcased how road safety strategies are saving human lives. It found in past 3 years, 79 countries have seen a fall in the number of fatalities in absolute terms.
Question: World Statistics Day was observed on 20th October 2015 with which theme?
A. Better Day, Better Lives
B. Better Data, Better Lives
C. Smarter Data, Smarter Lives
D. None of the above
Answer: Better Data, Better Lives
Explanation: The World Statistics Day was observed across the world on 20 October 2015 and the theme was Better Data, Better Lives. This is the second observance of the World Statistics Day. 2015 also marks the birth bicentenary of George Boole who worked on logic as a form of algebra forming the base of modern computer science.
Question: Which famous veteran filmmaker died at the age of 77 on 20th October 2015?
A. Vidhu Vinod Chopra
B. Sanjay Bhansali
C. GP Sippy
D. KSL Swamy
Answer: KSL Swamy
Explanation: Senior filmmaker Kikkeri Shamanna Lakshminarasimha Swamy, also known as KSL Swamy, died on 20 October 2015 at 77. He was also a playback singer, actor and producer. He started his career by helping G. V. Iyer and M. R. Vittal and debuted as an independent film director with the 1966 film, ThoogudeepA. His 1989 film Jamboo Savari won a National AwarD. He had directed over 37 films. He is also a Padma Bhutan awardee.
Question: Libyan parliament refused to sign a peace deal backed by which world body?
A. ICJ
B. UN
C. Amnesty International
D. None of the above
Answer: UN
Explanation: Libya's globally-recognised parliament on 19 October 2015 objected to sign the United Nations (UN)-backed peace deal for a power-sharing arrangement with rival Islamist-led authorities. While the parliament in based in Tobruk, the Islamist government is based in Tripoli. The deal was rejected on account of inclusion of amendments added by Islamists without its consent. Unity government would have gotten the power to eliminate all senior Libyan officials not unanimously approved by its members, according to the agreement. The country lost stability after Western forces toppled M. Gaddafi.
Question: Which eminent Rajasthani Hindi writer has returned his Sahitya Akademi Award on 15th October 2015?
A. Ashok Bhardwaj
B. Nand Bhardwaj
C. Sandra Daiya
D. Maalchand Tiwari
Answer: Nand Bhardwaj
Explanation: Well known Rajasthani and Hindi writer as well as former Director, DD, Nand Bhardwaj has joined other Sahitya Akademi winners in the protest against religious intolerance in the nation. Bhardwaj returned the award he had received in 2004 for the novel Samhi Khulto Marag. He expressed solidarity with late rationalist M. M. Kalburgi. He is also the Rajasthan coordinator for Jaipur Literature Festivals since it was conceiveD. This takes the number of authors who have returned their Akademi award to 29 and around 5 writers have also resigned from official positions in the literary body.
Question: Who was appointed as Assistant Director of UN FAO and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific on 14th October 2015?
A. Kundhavi Kadiresan
B. Eena Singh
C. Hiroyuki Konuma
D. None of the above
Answer: Kundhavi Kadiresan
Explanation: Kundhavi Kadiresan was appointed as assistant director of UN FAO and regional representative for Asia and the Pacific by FAO DG General José Graziano da SilvA. She succeeds Hiroyuki Konuma who retired from FAO in 2015. Kadiresan has close to 25 years of experience in economic and policy development apart from PhD in Economics and MBA in International Business. She has worked in numerous parts of the world including Asia, Africa, EU and Latin America.
Question: Which former Google adviser was appointed on 14th October 2015 as the Executive Chairman of Twitter?
A. Jack Dorsey
B. John Doerr
C. Basil Horangic
D. Omid Kordestani
Answer: Omid Kordestani
Explanation: Ex Google adviser Omid Kordestani was appointed as the Executive Chairman of Twitter on 14th October 2015 succeeding Jack Dorsey who resigned from the post to become CEO of the social media platform. Omid Kordestani is a tech industry veteran who is also Non-Executive Director at Vodafone, the UK based telecom group. He joined Google in 1999 and became its Chief Business Officer in 2014.
Question: Portugal became the first EU country to sign an MoU on the establishment of which university?
A. Nalanda University
B. Rajgir University
C. Bihar University
D. None of the above
Answer: Nalanda University
Explanation: Portugal has become the first European nation to sign an MoU on the establishment of Nalanda University at Rajgir, Bihar. The country is also the 17th overall and 4th outside East Asia summit to do so. Nalanda University was established through the Nalanda University Act 2010. It was formally inaugurated on 19th September 2014.
Question: On the tri-nation tour to West Asia, Indian President Pranab Mukherjee has become the first Indian Head of State to visit this Jewish country. What agreement (s) have been signed between the two nations, India and Israel to enhance bilateral cooperation?
A. A cultural exchange programme for 2015-2018
B. The amendment to the protocol on Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement
C. Both of the above
D. Neither of the above
Answer: Both of the above
Explanation: Pact on tax avoidance aims to end tax evasion and ensure taxation is levied only when Indian or Israeli companies have permanent establishments. The visit by President Mukherjee is historic because it is the first by an Indian Head of State. The Knesset (Israel Parliament) was also addressed by the president during his visit. A cultural exchange program has also been signed between India and Israel.
Question: The birth anniversary of which former president was celebrated on 15th October 2015?
A. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
B. Pratibha Patil
C. K. Narayanan
D. None of the above
Answer: A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Explanation: PM Narendra Modi celebrated the birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and his being a “Rashtra Ratna” before being a “Rashtrapati”. A statue of the former president was also unveiled in DRDO Bhawan. A commemorative postal stamp was also released on Dr. Kalam. As part of the celebrations, AMRUT/ Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation selected Rameswaram at TN as a city with basic urban infrastructure. This was the 84th birth anniversary of the former president. With the inclusion of this city, TN will now have 32 cities and towns under the Atal Mission.
Question: Japan, India and US have recently started a war exercise called _______ to advance multinational maritime relations and mutual security issues.
A. Malabar Exercise 2015
B. Malabar 2015
C. Malabar 2016
D. Malabar 2014-2015
Answer: Malabar 2015
Explanation: This is the latest in exercises conducted to advance maritime relations and mutual security issues across the 3 nations of US, India and Japan.Navies of the 3 nations will participate in the event called Complex, High-end war-fighting exercise and engage in training as well as knowledge sharing. Sessions comprise military-to-military coordination, submarine familiarisation, air defence and surface warfare exercises.
Question: Which female Indian bodybuilder became the first to win a medal at a continental level tournament in October ’15?
A. Shweta Rathore
B. Ashwini Waskar
C. Sibalika Saha
D. None of the above
Answer: Shweta Rathore
Explanation: Female bodybuilder from India, Shweta Rathore during the first week of October 2015 won a silver medal at the 49th Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Championship in Uzbekistan. She won the silver in the Women’s Fitness Physique category and also qualified for the World Championship to be held in November 2015 at ThailanD. She is also a bronze medalist at World Bodybuilding and Physique fitness Championship. The 49th Edition of the WBPF Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Championship was organised by the World Bodybuilding and Physique Federation.
Question: Maharashtra government has appointed whom as the Advocate General of the state on 14th October 2015?
A. S. V. Bokhare
B. Sunil Manohar
C. Shreehari Aney
D. Anil Singh
Answer: Shreehari Aney
Explanation: Maharashtra government has appointed Shreehari Aney as the Advocate General of the State, succeeding Sunil Manohar who quit in June 2015 citing personal reasons. He has assumed charge on November 14, 2014. Additional Solicitor General of India Anil Singh was given additional charge of AG till Aney’s appointment.
Question: Outward FDI by Indian firms has halved to USD _____ billion in September 2015, according to RBI data.
A. 1.23
B. 1.25
C. 1.27
D. 1.24
Answer: 1.24
Explanation: Overseas investment/outward FDI in the form of equity, loan and issue of guarantee by Indian firms fell by more than half to USD 1.24 billion in September. It was 3.12 billion USD a year back. In August 2015, the overseas investment was pegged at USD 2.19 billion. From the total USD 1.24 billion invested in September, USD 137.25 million was invested in equity, USD 365.83 million through loans and USD 738.25 million in the form of issue of guarantee. Major overseas investors included Ultratech Cement in Middle East, TATA Power and TATA Communications in Singapore and WNS Global Services in UK.
Question: Union Cabinet has approved an MoU between India and which country on 14th October 2015 for cooperation in MSMEs?
A. Taipei
B. China
C. Japan
D. Malaysia
Answer: Taipei
Explanation: Union Cabinet has given approval for an MoU between the India-Taipei Association (ITA) in Taipei and Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in India to promote cooperation in the field of MSMEs. The MoU also provides enabling environment to the medium and small scale industries of the two nations apart from regular bilateral exchanges in this field through JVs, sharing of best practices and technology collaborations. MoU does not involve financial, political or legal commitment of any kind.
Question: Government on 14th October 2015 approved an agreement between India and which nation for technical bilateral cooperation and investment promotion in renewable energy?
A. Ethiopia
B. Liberia
C. Mozambique
D. Madagascar
Answer: Mozambique
Explanation: Government of India on 14th October 2015 approved an agreement between India and Mozambique for bilateral cooperation and investment promotion in field of new and renewable energy. MoU was signed between the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Mozambique's Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy on August 5 during the visit of Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi to IndiA. This MoU will strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations. India has established a target of 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022. This comprises 100 GW solar power, 60 GW wind power, 10 GW biomass-fired power and 5 GW small hydro power.
Question: Which Indian Naval ship is currently in operational deployment and has entered the Sagami Bay in Japan on 14th October 2015?
A. INS Trikand
B. INS Sahyadri
C. INS Astradharini
D. None of the above
Answer: INS Sahyadri
Explanation: Pursuing India’s Act East Policy, INS Sahyadri has entered the Sagami Bay in Japan on October 14, 2015. This ship is currently on operational deployment to the North West Pacific region and South China seA. India and Japan have links dating back to the 9th century AD and both countries established ‘Global Partnership in the 21st Century’ in 2000 and held the first ‘Comprehensive Security Dialogue’ in 2001. The 2 nations instituted the Defence Policy Dialogue in 2007 and the Maritime Affairs Dialogue in 2013. INS Sahyadri is an indigenously built warship of Shivalik Class inducted into the Indian Navy on 21st July 2012. The ship had earlier visited Da Nang, Vietnam.
Question: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is organising ___________ on October 15th 2015 to sensitive everyone about challenges confronting visually impaired persons.
A. World Sight Day
B. White Cane Day
C. Indian Sight Day
D. None of the above
Answer: White Cane Day
Explanation: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has organised White Cane Day on October 15, 2015 for sensitising common man about challenges faced by visually impaired persons. Currently, 16 million blind and 28 million visually impaired persons are there in India who are often on the marginalised sections of society as compared to those who have normal vision. White Cane Day is also known as White Cane Safety Day and celebrated worldwide on 15th October 2015. The aim of this day is to educate people about how the visually challenged can work and live independently and give back to the community.
Question: Which renowned Malayalam filmmaker on 12th October 2015 was awarded the J. C. Daniel Award for 2014?
A. M. Padmakumar
B. N. N. Pisharody
C. I. V. Sasi
D. Priyadarshan
Answer: I. V. Sasi
Explanation: Well known Malayalam filmmaker I. V. Sasi was honoured with the J. C. Daniel award for 2014 for contributions to the film industry. He has made over 150 Indian films and is mostly known for his S. Indian movies. He started his career with a film entitled Ulsavam. He has directed more than 170 movies over 3 decades. In the year 1982, Aaroodam (a film directed by him) won the Nargis Dutt Award for the best feature film on National Integration. J. C. Daniel award is given annually by the Government of Kerala.
Question: Which eminent Punjabi writer has announced on 13th October 2015 that she will be returning her Padma Shri to protest against rising communal tension in India?
A. Hardeep Kumar Tiwana
B. Amrita Pritam
C. Balwant Gargi
D. Dalip Kumar Tiwana
Answer: Dalip Kumar Tiwana
Explanation: Punjabi writer Dalip Kaur Tiwana has announced she will return the Padma Shri to protest against rising communal tension in the nation. Tiwana was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2004. She is also the winner of a Sahitya Akademi award in 1971.
Question: Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s ____ birth anniversary was celebrated by Google with a doodle on October 13th.
A. 65th
B. 66th
C. 67th
D. 68th
Answer: 67th
Explanation: Google has marked legendary Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s 67th birth anniversary with a doodle on its homepage. Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a singer of Qawwali, devotional Sufi musiC. Born to a family of musicians in Faisalabad on October 13th 1948, Khan was noted for his soulful performances. He made the traditional Qawwali form of music and semi classical Pakistani music through fusion with modern fast beats. He is one of the most important artists to make the Qawwali popular. He passed away in 1997 at the age of 49.
Question: A biography on well known thinker and writer M. Vijayan has been released to mark his 8th death anniversary. Name its author.
A. M. J. Akbar
B. Praful Bidwai
C. K. Balakrishnan
D. Salman Rushdie
Answer: K. Balakrishnan
Explanation: To mark his 8th death anniversary, well known writer M. N. Vijayan’s biography by K. Balakrishnan was releaseD. The book details the exit of Vijayan as editor of Deshabhimani weekly. Book also highlights the numerous internal conflicts within CPI (M). The book was released by academician K. P. Narendran.
Question: The 5th meeting of the India-Maldives Joint Commission was held on 11 October 2015 in ______.
A. Henry Brooke
B. John Diamond
C. Joel Barnett
D. Geoffrey Howe
Answer: Male
Explanation: India-Maldives Joint Commission was co-chaired by MEA minister Sushma Swaraj and Maldivian foreign minister Dunya Maumoon. It assessed the entire range of bilateral relations including economic security and cultural aspects apart from focusing on the growing policy alignment between two countries as seen in India’s Neighbours First and Maldives India First policies.
Question: Which former treasury chief of Britain died in October 2015 at the age of 88?
A. Henry Brooke
B. John Diamond
C. Joel Barnett
D. Geoffrey Howe
Answer: Geoffrey Howe
Explanation: Geoffrey Howe, Britain’s ex treasury chief, died on 9 October 2015 Idlicote, EnglanD. He was 88. He oversaw Britain’s recovery from recession in the 1980s and was a champion of European unity. He was also the longest serving cabinet minister of Margaret Thatcher’s cabinet. He was Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1979-1983, Foreign Secretary from 1983-1989, Leader of House of Commons from 1989-1990 and Deputy PM from 1989-1990.
Question: Annual meetings of the WB Group and IMF were held between 9th and 11th October 2015 in _________.
A. Lima
B. New York
C. Delhi
D. London
Answer: Lima
Explanation: Annual meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF were held between 9th and 11th October 2015 in Lima, the capital of Peru. Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley led as India’s Governor on Board of Governors of IMF and World Bank leading the Indian delegation including RBI governor and Chief Economic Advisor. Key issues of discussion included shareholding review of WB and the role of both WB and IMF to support SDGs.
Question: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has acquired which certification for monitoring, planning, developing and maintaining highway infrastructure and road transport across the nation?
A. ISO 9000: 2007
B. ISO 9001: 2008
C. ISO 9003: 2009
D. None of the above
Answer: ISO 9001: 2008
Explanation: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has acquired ISO 9001:2008 certificate for monitoring, planning, development and maintenance of highway infrastructure as well as road transport throughout the nation on 12th October 2015. Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri. Nitin Gadkari received the certificate from IRQS CMD Arun SharmA. ISO certificate will be applied to all wings of the Ministry at the HQ in New Delhi. ISO is a globally recognised quality management system to enable demonstration of commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. ISO 9001: 2008 was slated for implementation in 2012-2013.
Question: Which famous Hindi literary figure has returned his Sahitya Akademi award on 12th October 2015?
A. Mangalesh Dabral
B. Uday Prakash
C. Ganesh Devy
D. None of the above
Answer: Mangalesh Dabral
Explanation: Well known writer, critic, editor and Hindi poet Mangalesh Dabral has returned his Sahitya Akademi award becoming one of the many since Uday Prakash started this form of protest over the killing of MM Kalburgi. Fellow Hindi poet Rajesh Joshi also returned the Sahitya Akademi awarD. Also among the 7 writers who returned the award were 5 noted Punjabi writers- Ajmer Singh Aulakh, Atamjit, Gurbachan Bhullar and Waryam Sandhu and Shiromani Lekhak award winner Megh Raj Mitter.
Question: Which well known Kashmiri literary figure returned the Sahitya Akademi award to protest against the feeling of threat being faced by minorities due to rising intolerance?
A. Ghulam Nabi Firaq
B. Ghulam Nabi Khayal
C. Amin Kamil
D. Akhtar Mohiuddin
Answer: Ghulam Nabi Khayal
Explanation: Eminent Kashmiri writer and poet Ghulam Nabi Khayal has returned the Sahitya Akademi award which he had won for his book “Gashik Minaar” in 1975 in protest against the threat being faced by minorities in the nation. This is one of the latest authors to protest against the rising communalism and intolerance in Indian society following the Dadri lynching. This marks the first time a Kashmiri writer has made the decision to return the literary honour for protesting against the communal atmosphere in numerous parts of the country.
Question: Who has won the Russian Formula One Grand Prix on 11th October 2015?
A. Lewis Hamilton
B. Nico Rosberg
C. Sebastian Vettel
D. Sergio Perez
Answer: Lewis Hamilton
Explanation: Lewis Hamilton has emerged victorious at the Russian Formula One Grand Prix attaining a possible third world championship. This was Hamilton’s 9th win in the season and the 42nd of his career. Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel was the runner up while Force India’s Mexican Sergio Perez finished third.
Question: Which Spanish player won the China Open women’s singles title on 11th October 2015?
A. Conchita Martinez
B. Carbine Muguruza
C. Laura Pous To
D. Silvia Soler Espinosa
Answer: Carbine Muguruza
Explanation: Spain’s Garbine Mugururza on 11th October 2015 has captured the China Open women’s singles title by beating Swiss player Timea Bacsinszky. Muruguza has emerged victorious through a 3-0 record against her rival, aiding her to attain a career high singles ranking of World Number 4. This was Muguruza’s second title after the first win at Hobart International in 2014. She also entered the finals of 2015 Wimbledon Championship and made an appearance in the 2014 and 2015 French Open.
Question: Who has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2015 for his analysis of poverty, consumption and welfare on October 12th 2015?
A. Jean Tirole
B. Robert J. Shiller
C. Alvin Roth
D. Angus Deaton
Answer: Angus Deaton
Explanation: The Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2015 was awarded to Angus Deaton of Princeton University for analysis of poverty, consumption and welfare. His research linked individual choices with aggregate outcomes, helping to transform the fields of development economics, microeconomics and macroeconomics.
Question: Martina Hingis won the women’s doubles title of the China Tennis Open with which partner on 10th October 2015?
A. Maria Sharapova
B. Sania Mirza
C. Venus Williams
D. Serena Williams
Answer: Sania Mirza
Explanation: Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis has won the women’s doubles title of the China Tennis Open defeating the Chinese Taipei pair of Hao Ching Chan and Yung Jan Chan 6-7(9), 6-1, 10-8. The pair has now won its fourth title in the row and the eighth title of the season. The other 7 titles Mirza and Hingis have won comprise Charleston, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Wells, Miami, Wimbledon, Charleston, and US Open.
Question: Which author(s) have returned their Sahitya Akademi award as a mark of protest on 11th October 2015 against the rising intolerance and communal atmosphere in the country?
A. Ganesh Devy
B. Aman Sethi
C. Kum Veerabhadrappa
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Gujarati author Ganesh Devy and 5 other noted writers decided to return their Sahitya Akademi awards on 11th October 2015 while Kannada writer Aravind Malagatti resigned from the body's general council. The writers returned the award as a mark of protest against rising intolerance and communal atmosphere following the murder of rationalists and the Dadri lynching episode. Delhi based Aman Sethi, Kannada writer Kum Veerabhadrappa, writers from Punjab, Gurbachan Bhullar, Ajmer Singh Aulakh and Atamjit Singh, also announced that they were returning their Sahitya Akademi awards.
Question: As Benchmark BSE Sensex rose by 858 points, which company posted the biggest gains?
A. Infosys
B. TCS
C. RIL
D. ONGC
Answer: ONGC
Explanation: Benchmark BSE Sensex rose rapidly by 858 points during the first week of October causing 9 of the top 10 most valued companies to gain INR 80,086.27 crore in market cap. ONGC posted the biggest gains. Sensex surged to 27,079.51, second straight weekly rise. Apart from Infosys, top 9 companies which saw market valuation rise included ITC, RIL and TCS. M-cap of ONGC surged to INR 2,25137.72 crore from INR 26,393.68 crore. TCS topped the list of companies being followed by RIL, ITC, HDFC Bank, Infosys, ONGC, Sun Pharma, CIL, HDFC and SBI.
Question: Who has been elected as the first PM of Nepal under the new constitutional system on 11th October 2015?
A. Sushil Koirala
B. KP Sharma Oli
C. Rajendra Mahato
D. None of the above
Answer: KP Sharma Oli
Explanation: Nepal got its first PM under the freshly introduced constitutional system in Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist leader KP Sharma Oli. However, Madhesi leaders have opposed the appointment. Oil secured 338 votes out of 598 defeating incumbent Sushil Koirala of the Nepali Congress.
Question: According to scientists from IISER, Mohali, momentum of light_________ when it passes through a material in a discovery made on 11th October 2015.
A. Increases
B. Decreases
C. Remains the same
D. None of the above
Answer: Increases
Explanation: Hermann Minkowski and Max Abraham came up with opposite equations that both seemed to be supported by polar experimental data, as far as the question of what happens to the momentum of light is concerneD. Using indigenous equipment, IISER scientists have found the former was correct and light does enter another medium and gain momentum. At angles close to TIR, the water surface was discovered to be bent upwards due to the pressure exerted by the photon beam and was spread to 100 times in excess of the area of the pumped laser. The analysis demonstrated that the light particles actually gained momentum. The equipment designed can also help in the development of better biosensors, lab-on-chip devices, easily reconfigurable lenses and molecular imaging tools.
Question: Three UK firms have created a new technique to use radio beams for freezing drones in mid light called_________.
A. AUTS
B. AUDS
C. AUKS
D. None of the above
Answer: AUDS
Explanation: 3 UK firms Enterprise Control Systems, developed the product along with Blighter Surveillance Systems and Chess Dynamics. They have created a new system called AUDS/Anti UAV Defence System for covertly jamming a drone’s signal and making it unresponsive through a new technique using radio beams to freeze drones and prevent them from coming into sensitive areas. The AUDS operator can freeze the drone for a short period or until its battery dies and it crashes.
Question: Asian bronze medallist ______________ was the third Indian boxer to score a bronze medal at the World Boxing Championships.
A. Shiv Thapa
B. Vijender Singh
C. Vikas Krishnan
D. None of the above
Answer: Shiv Thapa
Explanation: Asian bronze medallist Shiv Thapa settled for a bronze medal at the World Boxing Championships, remaining in contention for an Olympic berth. He lost 1-2 to Asian silver medallist Murodjon Akhmadaliev from Uzbekistan. 20 year old Thapa will now face Dmitry Asanau in an important bout. He is only the third India following Vikas Krishnan and Vijender Singh to secure a World Championships medal.
Question: What is the percentage of original habitats in the eastern Himalayas which have remained intact, according to a new WWF study?
A. 23%
B. 24%
C. 25%
D. 26%
Answer: 25%
Explanation: Around 25% of the original habitats have remained intact in the eastern Himalayas and several new species in the region face continued threat to their existence according to report--'Hidden Himalayas: Asia's Wonderland', a World Wildlife Fund's (WWF) Living Himalayas initiative. Close to 200 news species have been discovered between 2009 and 2014. The 211 discoveries include 133 plants, 39 invertebrates, 26 fish, 10 amphibians, one reptile, one bird and one mammal. Population growth, deforestation, poaching, mining, pollution, hydropower development and overgrazing pose a threat to the Himalayas.
Question: PM Sushil Koirala has undertaken which action as Parliament of Nepal prepares to elect a fresh premier after failure to form a consensus?
A. Resignation from the post
B. Continuation in the post
C. Suspension from the post
D. None of the above
Answer: Resignation from the post
Explanation: Nepal PM Suresh Koirala has resigned as Parliament makes preparations to elect a new Premier following continued protests and inability to form consensus resulting in blocked of key trade point in India with respect to the new Constitution of the country. Koirala is in the race to become PM again, filing candidacy for the premiership from his Nepali Congress (NC) party. He is running against CPN-UML Chairman K P Sharma Oli, whose name was proposed by Unified CPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda and seconded by Rastirya Prajatantra Party chairman Kamal ThapA. The latter is seen as the most likely new PM of Nepal with more than a dozen parties supporting him. The Madhesi group is against the splitting of Nepal into 7 provinces and is protesting against the new constitution.
Question: NASA’s Pluto Exploration Programme has indicated that Pluto is geologically active after more than ____ billion years.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Answer: 4
Explanation: NASA’s Pluto Exploration Programme has found the dwarf planet is geologically active even after 4 billion years indicating this planet could be alive. The first colour images of Pluto have revealed a blue haze and small exposed regions of water ice on Pluto. Patterns of water ice have uneven distribution and the blue sky on Pluto results from scattering of sunlight by soot like particles referred to as tholins. However, scientists have said it is not possible for Pluto to have life once because it is -400 degree F and too cold for life. Pluto is currently the only object in the Kuiper Belt with multiple moons.
Question: British scientists have sequenced an ancient African genome from a ______ year old Ethiopian skull confirming mass migration wave from Eurasia to Africa around 3000 years ago.
A. 4500
B. 4600
C. 4700
D. 4800
Answer: 4500
Explanation: Researchers from the University of Cambridge have sequenced an ancient African genome from 4500 year old skull in Ethiopia confirming mass migration wave from Eurasia to Africa close to 3000 years ago. 25% of the DNA of modern Africa can be traced to this event and data shows Africans carry a considerable component of Eurasian ancestry. The research findings indicate mass migration of western Eurasians into Africa around 4000 years back originating in ancient Middle East. This marks the first time an African genome has been decoded.
Question: Number of dolphins has risen in Ganga river and its tributaries as per the Dolphin Census 2015 to ________.
A. 1261
B. 1262
C. 1263
D. 1264
Answer: 1263
Explanation: Number of Gangetic dolphins has risen to 1263 in the state of UP. Census was conducted by WWF India and other voluntary organisations between October 5 and 8, 2015. The census was conducted in a 3350 km of the river stretch including the Ganga and its tributaries, Yamuna, Chambal, Gerua, Ghaghra, Ken, Rapti, Sharda, Betwa and Son river.Census commenced from the Ganga barrage in Kanpur and boats moved at a speed of 7 to 10 km for every single hour surveying 70 km of the river stretch each day. First census of UP was done in 2012 and found around 671 dolphins across the 2800 km stretch of Ganga and its tributes. In the year 2005, WWF estimated the number of Gangetic dolphins to be 600. The presence of the Gangetic river dolphin is an indication of a healthy river ecosystem. It is a national aquatic mammal which forms the endemic fauna of the Ganga, Meghna and Brahmaputra river and is one of 4 freshwater dolphins across the globe. The growth rate of the species is very low.
Question: Which bird has been estimated to be close to extinction that is also the state bird of Rajasthan?
A. Hoopoe
B. Sparrow
C. Egret
D. Great Indian Bustard
Answer: Great Indian Bustard
Explanation: Listed as critically endangered under the Schedule 1 which is the highest protection status as per the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, this state bird is close to extinction. WII survey found 44 Great Indian Bustards in Rajasthan but the Rajasthan forest department survey found only 28. Around one week ago, another survey found there were only 13 GIBs. GIB or Ardeotis nigirceps is one of the biggest flying bird species found in the world today and currently, the other two states Maharashtra and Gujarat are having only 6 and 11 GIBs respectively. Steps are being taken to improve conservation and habitat of GIB through the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority/CAMPA. Rajasthan currently has the highest population of GIB and if captive breeding conservation efforts are successful, the number may rise. Total conservation cost has been pegged at INR 13 crore for the Project Great Indian Bustard announced in 2012.
Question: Scientists have demonstrated for the first time how water is drained from the Greenland ice sheet lake through ________.
A. Water tunnel
B. Subglacial tunnel
C. Glacier
D. None of the above
Answer: Subglacial tunnel
Explanation: Scientists have demonstrated how water is drained from the Greenland ice sheet lake through a subglacial tunnel. Researchers from University of Exeter studied water flow paths from such subglacial lake draining beneath the ice sheet. They found that impact of climate change is considerable on the plumbing system associated with water flow in subglacial lake under Greenland ice sheet. Configuration of the plumbing system has an impact on the flow speed of the overlying ice. Greenland’s subglacial lake has been fed by surface meltwater flowing down a nearby moulin unlike Antarctic subglacial lakes which are sustained via melting of the base of ice sheet. As global warming continues to increase, more volumes of surface meltwater routed to the ice sheet bed will lead to subglacial lake drainage to become common in the future. Increased drainage frequency could impact the sensitivity of the ice sheet to climate change, influencing the future sea level changes.
Question: Which is the new initiative making it easier for Indian diaspora to invest in SMB that has been launched on October 10, 2015?
A. India Investment Initiative
B. Indian Investment Initiative
C. Indian Investment Fund
D. None of the above
Answer: Indian Investment Initiative
Explanation: Indian Investment Initiative/III was launched on October 10, 2015 in collaboration with USAID and Calvert Foundation as we'll as the US State department. This initiative makes it easier for Indian Americans to invest in SMBs back home. III offers a tool for Indian Americans to attain goals of leveraging close relations between India and the US. One of the first investments is IntelleGrow which focused on investment in key areas such as education, sustainable livelihoods and health. US based retail investors will support the initiative through the purchase of Community Investment Notes by Calvert Foundation. USAID will also provide Development Credit Guarantee for supporting Indian financial institutions contributing to social enterprises.
Question: Scientists have found that the Red Planet had long lasting lakes and water streams __________ billion years ago.
A. 3.3 to 3.5
B. 3.3 to 3.6
C. 3.3 to 3.7
D. 3.3 to 3.8
Answer: 3.3 to 3.8
Explanation: Scientists have used data from the Curiosity rover to determine that water helped deposit sediments into the Gale Crater where the rover landed around 3 years ago and this has increased odds of life once existing on the Red Planet. Sediment deposited as larges formed the foundation for Mount Sharp on mars. Rover observations suggest that series of streams and rivers existed at some point between 3.3 to 3.8 billion years back, building up lower layers of Mount Sharp through sediment deposition. Findings built upon previous research indicating the presence of ancient lakes on Mars.
Question: Punjab farmers lost 2/3rd of their cotton crop to which pest for which NBRI has developed a pest resistant cotton variety on 9th October 2015?
A. Bluefly
B. Redfly
C. Blackfly
D. Whitefly
Answer: Whitefly
Explanation: Punjab farmers have lost two thirds of their cotton crop to whitefly even as NBRI developing a cotton variety resistant to the pest. The institute found a gene derived from a vegetable to be effective against the whitefly. The gene induces whitefly sterility and prevents reproduction of the pest. CSIR’s research lab, NBRI has applied for patent for the technology in 8 nations. Whitefly is a common pest affecting 30 plant varieties such as papaya, brinjal and cotton as well as okra in fields. Cotton is currently grown in 9 Indian states namely MP, TN, Gujarat, Telangana, Karntaka, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana and MaharashtrA. The northern states are more affected by the whitefly pest. Whitefly takes away the nutrients from the leaves of the crop and stunts their growth. This pest can destroy the crop in just 6 to 8 weeks. NBRI tested genes from 250 plants to find the one effective for eliminating whitefly in cotton crops. Protein formed by the gene is easily digestible in lab trials.
Question: Railways has launched which initiative for cutting queues in reservation counters on 9th October 2015?
A. Booking of tickets through email
B. Booking of unreserved and platform tickets through internet
C. Booking of paperless unreserved tickets and platform tickets
D. Both b and c
Answer: Both b and c
Explanation: Indian Railways has launched the facility for booking paperless unreserved tickets plus platform tickets for cutting down on queues in reservation counters. This initiate was started in suburban rail sections of Mumbai where close to 75 lakh passengers use the train services to commute between places. The IT enabled passenger services are in line with Digital India mission. Paperless ticket programme will also cover New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations. Currency coin cum card operated automatic ticket vending machine as also been launched at numerous Central and Western Railways on the occasion. Campaign will also be launched to combat ticketless travelling on Indian Railways.
Question: West Bengal has taken decision for which initiative to protect the endangered Gangetic river dolphins on 9th October 2015?
A. First community reserve
B. Survey to measure count
C. Regulations regarding fishing in the waters
D. None of the above
Answer: First community reserve
Explanation: For protecting the endangered Gangetic river dolphins, the Indian state of West Bengal will have the first community reserve for the mammals. This decision was taken by the State Wildlife Board even as a committee was formed to study ways of setting up community reserve in Hooghly river between Sundarbans and MaldA. This stretch is around 500 km long and passes through Kolkata’s most populated areas before merging in the Sunderbans with the Bay of Bengal. As per the Wildlife Protection Act, there is provision for creation of such community reserves for protection of fauna and florA. Gangetic dolphins are the national aquatic animal of IndiA. A census will also be carried out to assess their numbers.. Currently, the number of dolphins is less than 2000 in IndiA. The Gangetic Dolphin is known as the Tiger of the Ganges and is an indicator animal for the river ecosystem in much the same way as a tiger in forests. Killing, habitat fragmentation and indiscriminate fishing has led to fall in the numbers of these dolphins.
Question: Which indices are being jointly prepared by BSE in partnership with University of Michigan and CMIE?
A. India unemployment rate
B. India consumer sentiment
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Both of the above
Explanation: BSE is going to launch high frequency job and consumer sentiment data from 2016 to help policy makers and companies attain a better grip of the economy. The Indian unemployment rate and Indian consumer sentiment indices are being created by BSE in collaboration with CMIE and University of Michigan. and will be released at high frequency on real time basis. Data will be released everyday on BSE from survey of more than 4000 adults from 1200 to 1500 households across the nation. Data based on survey of CMIE’s panel of 5 lakh people from 1.58 lakh households across 315 cities and 3000 villages was useD. These indices will help investors, corporate groups and policy makers to analyse the health of the domestic economy.
Question: Government on 9th October 2015 has pegged total sugar output at what value for the current marketing year 2015?
A. 24 MT
B. 25 MT
C. 26 MT
D. 27 MT
Answer: 26 MT
Explanation: Government pegs total sugar output at 26 MT for current marketing year 2015-2016 which is 2 million tonnes less than last year on account of poor monsoon in Maharashtra and KarnatakA. This is much lower than ISMA’s estimate of 27 MT for 2015-2016. Country has produced 28.1 MT of sugar in 2014-2015 marketing year. Currently, India is the world’s second largest sugar producer.
Question: RBI has stipulated that banks can provide up to ___ percent for properties costing INR 30 lakh up from INR 20 lakh.
A. 70
B. 80
C. 90
D. 40
Answer: 90
Explanation: To benefit buyers of low cost housing, RBI on 8th October 2015 raised the amount banks can advance for property purchase and lowered the risk weightage of various categories of home loans. This will attract customers to low cost housing sphere. Banks will also gain surplus funds for affordable housing loans as they have to set aside less capital for the segment. Banks can now provide home loans up to 90% for properties that cost INR 30 lakh or less from the earlier INR 20 lakh. LTV has been raised to 80% for properties between INR 30 lakh and 75 lakh and 75% for those above INR 75 lakh.
Question: Which group has entered into partnership with Abraaj Group, leading investor in global growth markets for constructing large scale renewable energy platform through development of utility scale solar power plants in the nation?
A. Mahindras
B. TATA Group
C. Aditya Birla Group
D. None of the above
Answer: Aditya Birla Group
Explanation: Aditya Birla Group via Aditya Birla Nuvo has entered into a collaboration with leading investor in global growth markets, Abraaj Group for developing utility scale solar power plants in the nation. ABNL has entered into an SSA/ Subscription and shareholders agreement with an Abraaj affiliate and the affiliate created will be 51% owned by ABNL and 49% by the latter. Aditya Birla Renewables, the solar power platform will bid for projects at national and state auctions to develop utility scale power plants in the nation to provide cost effective electricity to several national grids.
Question: Gannet Co. has reached an agreement to acquire which newspaper company on October 8th 2015?
A. Journal Media Group
B. NYT
C. Bennet and Coleman
D. None of the above
Answer: Journal Media Group
Explanation: Gannet Co has reached an agreement for the acquisition of newspaper company Journal Media Group for USD 280 million providing the media giant control of 100 local US markets. Journal media publications include Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Memphis (Tennessee) Commercial-Appeal and Knoxville (Tennessee) News Sentinel. Gannet will be able to maximise short term profits through this acquisition. Merger will add 15 day and 18 weekly papers to its portfolio. Journal Media Group was formed in 2015 after Journal Communications Inc of Milwaukee and E. W. Scripps Co of Cincinnati merged broadcasting operations under the E. W. Scripps me and created a separate public entity for newspaper.
Question: For the ______ time in 2015, surface ozone pollution in Delhi has crossed the permissible limit.
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: Second
Explanation: For the second time this year, surface ozone pollution in Delhi has breached permissible limits with weak monsoon being blamed for the phenomenon. While ozone layer limit in Mumbai and Pune is within permissible limits, it is also rising in these two cities. Delhi’s surface ozone pollution has crossed the threshold level it normally did in May June again, according to IITM scientists. Permissible limit is 50 ppb (8 hour day average) according to the monitoring carried out under SAFAR (System of Air quality and weather Forecasting and Research) system of Ministry of Earth Sciences.
Question: IAF on 8th October 2015 celebrated which anniversary at Hindan Air Base in Ghaziabad?
A. 81st
B. 82nd
C. 85th
D. 83rd
Answer: 83rd
Explanation: Indian Air Force celebrated its 83rd anniversary at Hindan Air Base in Ghaziabad where the decision to induct women as fighter pilots was also taken. This is the 83rd celebration of this anniversary which has been observed since 1932. IAF has been involved in numerous operations such as Pawan, Cactus and Vijay as well as wars such as WW2 and India China war.
Question: Earth’s inner core was formed _______ billion years ago, according to research released on October 8 2015.
A. 1 billion
B. 1.5 billion
C. 1-1.5 bilion
D. 1.6 billion
Answer: 1-1.5 bilion
Explanation: Scientists have found the inner core of the earth was formed 1-1.5 billion years back as it froze from the molten iron outer core. The inner core is Earth’s deepest layer and it is a ball of solid iron larger than Pluto surrounded by liquid outer core. Inner core is a recent addition to the planet and it was formed according to scientists who have debated its period of formation as ranging from 0.5 to 2 billion years. Researchers conducted an analysis of records from ancient igneous rocks and found sharp increase in magnetic field of the planet between 1 to 1.5 billion years ago. Increased magnetic field is a possible indication of the first occurrence of solid iron at the centre of the earth. The research also suggests average growth rate of the solid inner core is one mm per year. Earth’s magnetic field is generated by motion of liquid iron alloy in the outer core around 3000 km beneath the crust of the earth.
Question: Nobel Prize 2015 for Literature went to which famous author?
A. Patrick Modiano
B. Svetlana Alexeivich
C. Orhan Pamuk
D. None of the above
Answer: Svetlana Alexeivich
Explanation: The Nobel prize for literature went to 67 year old Belarus author Svetlana Alexievich for her polyphonic writings. She is the 14th woman literature laureate. She has chronicled the biggest tragedies of Soviet Union and its collapse, WW2, Soviet war in Afghanistan, Chernobyl disaster and communism initiated suicides. Alexievich, the daughter of two school teachers lives in Minsk and supports opponents of President Alexander Lukashenko.
Question: Which Oscar winning composer has been named the cultural ambassador of Seychelles on October 8th 2015 for contribution in enhancing the art and cultural development of the country?
A. James Horner
B. Alex North
C. Alfred Newman
D. A. R. Rahman
Answer: A. R. Rahman
Explanation: Oscar winning composer A. R. Rahman has been named the cultural ambassador of Seychelles for enhancing the art and cultural development of the country, on 8th October 2015. 48 year old music Rahman is a winner of 2 Academy Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, Golden Globe and BAFA besides national apart from international recognition in his career.
Question: Which state government has made the decision to impose drought surcharge on a host of items to increase INR 1600 crore for affected farmers?
A. Kerala
B. MP
C. Maharashtra
D. Gujarat
Answer: Maharashtra
Explanation: Maharashtra government on 30th September 2015 made the decision to impose a drought surcharge on numerous items to raise INR 1600 crore for affected farmers. New taxes become operational w.e.f 12:00 am on 30th September 2015. New tax system will be in place till the end of February following which the state government will undertake its rationalisation. Surcharge of INR 2 per litre would be levied on petrol and diesel in the capital city of Mumbai. Local body tax will be scrapped in 27 corporations across the state to reduce the impact in rural areas so prices will rise by close to 50 paise. Sales tax on aerated soft drinks, cigarettes and liquor will be increased by 5% and that on gold, diamond and jewellery would be hiked by 0.2%. Maharashtra has also scrapped local body tax for traders with less than INR 50 crore turnover from August 1st 2015.
Question: Google has dedicated a doodle to which woman leader of India on her 168th Birth Anniversary on 1st October 2015?
A. Kasturba Gandhi
B. Annie Besant
C. Sarojini Naidu
D. Madame Bhikaji Cama
Answer: Annie Besant
Explanation: Google has dedicated the doodle to the first women president of INC, Annie Besant on her 168th birth anniversary. Besant was born on October 1, 1847 in London to Irish immigrant parents. She first came to India in 1888 and stayed in the country till her death on September 20, 1933. She was a staunch supporter of the Indian freedom struggle and launched Home Rule League with Lokmanya Tilak in 1916. She was also actively involved in social work in India and in establishing several educational institutions.
Question: China on 30th September 2015 launched a new 20th generation satellite into orbit named ____________.
A. BeiDou Navigation Satellite System
B. Baidu Navigation Satellite System
C. Xichang Navigation Satellite System
D. None of the above
Answer: BeiDou Navigation Satellite System
Explanation: China on 30th September 2015 launched a 20th new generation satellite to support its global navigation and positioning network launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the south-western province of Sichuan. A Long March-3B carrier rocket carried the satellite.This satellite brings China closer to developing a GPS like the US and it also featured a hydrogen atomic clock, which is another first for ChinA. Some other global navigation satellite systems include IRNSS (India), GPS (United States), GLONASS (Russia), DORIS (France) and QZXX (Japan).
Question: Union Communications and IT minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has released a commemorative postal stamp for which famous Indian personality on 30th September 2015?
A. Dr. B. R Ambedkar
B. Mahatma Gandhi
C. Sarojini Naidu
D. Jawahar Lal Nehru
Answer: Dr. B. R Ambedkar
Explanation: Union Communications and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on 30 September 2015 has announced a release of a commemorative postal stamp on Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar in celebration of his 125th birth anniversary. The ministry will also come out with a coin in memory of Dr. Ambedkar. He was posthumously awarded the highest civilian award of Bharat Ratna in the 1990s. He passed away in 1956. He is credited with framing the Indian constitution.
Question: UP Government has announced on 29th September that it will implement which legislation in 3 phases?
A. AFSPA
B. NFSA
C. TADA
D. None of the above
Answer: NFSA
Explanation: Uttar Pradesh government has made the announcement on 29th September 2015 that it will implement National Food Security Act/NFSA 2013 in 3 phases in the state. In the first phase, scheme will be implemented in 24 districts whereas it will be implemented in 26 districts in the second phase. In the third phase, the scheme will be launched in 25 districts.NFSA also called Right to Food Act is a Parliament legislation to provide subsidised food grains to 2/3rd of India’s 1.2 billion persons. The poor will get the monthly quota of wheat at INR 2 per kg and rice at INR 3 per kg. This act was signed into law on 12th September 2013 with retroactive effect from July 5th, 2013.
Question: Which two industrialist brothers have decided to join forces to launch 4G mobile phone services signalling consolidation in the Indian telecom market?
A. Birlas
B. Ambanis
C. Mahindras
D. Goenkas
Answer: Ambanis
Explanation: Mukesh and Anil Ambani have made the decision to launch 4G mobile phone services by the end of the year, which is a virtual consolidation. RCom chairman Anil Ambani said he will be tying up trading and sharing of spectrum with Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Jio for 4G services. RCom is the 4th biggest mobile phone carrier in terms of subscribers. Talks are on between RCom and Sistema’s Indian unit for a possible merger. RIL shared gained 2.5% to close at INR 860 while RCom shares gained 6% to close at INR 68. Collaboration between the Ambani brothers commenced in 2013 after a mutual split in 2005. RJio has made the decision to share RCom’s extensive inter and within city infrastructure of 520,000 km of optic fibres and close to 45,000 towers. RCom was launched in 2002 at Reliance Infocomm under a consolidated Reliance empire. The Ambani brothers are set to launch 4G bundled voice and data services in the second largest market in the world as per customers.
Question: Godrej Properties has completed the biggest transaction for single end user commercial real estate in India on 30th September with which pharmaceutical firm?
A. Sun
B. Ranbaxy
C. Cipla
D. Abbott
Answer: Abbott
Explanation: Godrej Properties has announced the sale of 4.35 lakh square feet in the new commercial tower, Godrej BKC at the Bandra Kurla complex for more than INR 1479 crore to pharma firm Abbott India LtD. Market sources indicated this was the biggest transaction for a single end user commercial real estate in the country. The deal was brokered by property consultant Cushman & WakefielD. Abbott has indicated it will occupy more than 400,000 square feet of office space in the Godrej Building. Godrej Properties had collaborated with Jet Airways for developing a 19 storey office building in BKC in 2006.
Question: Ajay Piramal will become promoter with 35% stake in the firm Piramal Enterprises to be created through merger of financial services business unit with which infrastructure company?
A. Larsen and Toubro Infrastructure Development Projects Ltd
B. Reliance Infrastructure Limited
C. GMR Infrastructure Limited
D. Infrastructure Leasing and Financing Service Ltd
Answer: Infrastructure Leasing and Financing Service Ltd
Explanation: Ajay Piramal, owner of Primal enterprises will become promoter with 35% stake in company created through merger of financial services business with infra firm IL&FS. All stock deal will contribute to a company with revenue of USD 2.5 billion or INR 15,000 crore to be owned 37% by existing institutional shareholders of the infra firm while retail and foreign investors of PEL will own 28%. The combination of IL&FS and the PEL unit will contribute to a financial services conglomerate with a net worth of INR 14,500 crore and debt of INR 65,000 crore. The presence will span infrastructure finance, corporate lending and PE fund with assets under management of USD 3 billion. The firm will also include 10 power firms and India’s largest wind energy assets of 1000 MW30 functional toll road projects and engineering and consultancy company Maytas Infrastructure. IL & FS is owned by SBI, the largest bank by assets , India’s largest private sector mortgage lender HDDFC and LIC, the largest insurer in IndiA. Other shareholders include CBI, Orix and AIDA. Piramal and his family now own 53% stake in PEL which earned 18% of the revenue in the previous fiscal from financial services.
Question: Which two public lenders have approved issuance of shares on preferential basis to government in lieu of capital infusion of INR 5393 crore and INR 1786 crore respectively?
A. SBI and State Bank of Travancore
B. SBI and State Bank of Patiala
C. Central Bank of India and Bank of Baroda
D. SBI and Bank of Baroda
Answer: SBI and Bank of Baroda
Explanation: Public lending financial institutions SBI and BoB have indicated on 30th September 2015 that they have approved the issuance of shares on preferential basis to GoI in lieu of capital infusion of INR 5393 crore and INR 1786 crore respectively. SBI has indicated in a BSE filing that Committee of Directors for Capital Raising considered and accorded approval for allotting 19,65,59,390 shares on preferential basis to GoI. Government in August 2015 had made the decision to infuse INR 20,088 crore in 13 PSU banks. This includes PNB, IDBI, BoI, Union Bank of India, Corporation Bank and Canara Bank.
Question: News Corp has recently sold its digital education brand to a management team with private investors following slowdown of the digital curriculum market. Name the brand.
A. Digify
B. Digitalise
C. Amplify
D. None of the above
Answer: Amplify
Explanation: News Corp has sold digital education brand Amplify to management team supported by private investors resulting from slow growth in digital curriculum market. Financial terms of the deal were not discloseD. Strategic options are being reviewed for Amplify and the new company will be led by CEO of Amplify Learning Division, Larry Berger.
Question: Future Group has appointed which person as CEO, Group Loyalty and Analytics recently?
A. Vinay Bhatia
B. Bhaskar Bhat
C. Y. C. Deveshwar
D. R. Sridhar
Answer: Vinay Bhatia
Explanation: Future Group, India’s largest retailer has appointed Vinay Bhatia as CEO, Group Loyalty and Analytics. He was earlier senior vice president, marketing and loyalty at Shopper’s Stop. This saw the loyalty cardholder base rise from 0.9 million to 4 million during the 7 year tenure generating 3/4th of the revenues. Kishore Biyani led Future Group will leverage large base of loyal members to triple sales in the next half decade. Rather than following an omni-channel system, it is trying to create an ecosystem by hiring data analytics personnel.
Question: Who has taken over as new Financial Commissioner Railways and ex-Officio Secretary to GoI w.e.f 1st October 2015?
A. Shri B. Mukerjee
B. Shri S. Mukherjee
C. Shri. S. Mookerjee
D. Shri B. Mookerjee
Answer: Shri. S. Mookerjee
Explanation: Shri S. Mookerjee has taken over as the new Finance Commissioner and ex officio Secretary to GoI. He has taken charge following the superannuation of Smt. Rajalakshmi Ravi Kumar. He was earlier posted as DG, National Academy of Indian Railways, VadodarA. He is an officer of Indian Railway Accounts Service belonging to the 1978 batch. He completed his BA from DU and BSc (Physics Honours) from St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta University. He also holds an MBA from Motilal Nehru Institute of Research and Business Administration, University of AllahabaD. His core competence is in IT and Computer Applications as well as Financial Management and Policy.
Question: American designer Ralph Lauren has appointed whom as the new CEO of his company?
A. Arthur L. Peck
B. Stefan Larsson
C. Jan Larsson
D. None of the above
Answer: Stefan Larsson
Explanation: American designer Ralph Lauren who has constructed a mega fashion brand is stepping down as CEO and has named GAP’s populist President, Old Navy brand to the current position. Ralph Lauren Corp has founded by him in the 1960s. R.L Corp’s new CEO is the global president of GAP’s Old Navy division, Stefan Larsson. Lauren will continue to remain the executive chairperson and head the design team.
Question: Which noted British film-maker known for hit movies like King Kong has passed away on 28th September 2015?
A. Richard Attenborough
B. John Guilliermin
C. Anthony Asquith
D. John Boulting
Answer: John Guilliermin
Explanation: British film-maker John Guillermin known for his 1976 hit movies like “King Kong” and filming of Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile” has passed away of a heart attack at the age of 89. He was also known for his action and adventure films such as “Shaft in Africa”, “Skyjacked” and “El Condor”. The London born director completed his education from University of Cambridge.
Question: Australian communities have taken a step forward with the launch of which satellite designed specifically for the National Broadband Network?
A. Sky Master
B. Sky Muster
C. Sky Challenge
D. None of the above
Answer: Sky Muster
Explanation: Australian communities have taken a step closer to high speed internet following launch of a 0.5 billion dollar satellite named Sky Muster launched from the French Guiana on October 1, 2015. This is one of the largest communication satellites in the world for delivering broadband to AustraliA. NBN satellite service will provide speeds and new growth in education, social connectivity, health and business.
Question: ISRO has been asked by an international arbitration court to pay INR 4435 crore in damages to which Bengaluru based firm on 1st October 2015?
A. Devat International
B. Devas Multimedia
C. Devas Media
D. None of the above
Answer: Devas Multimedia
Explanation: ISRO had aborted the Devas deal in 2011. The commercial arm of ISRO, Antrix had signed a contract for launching two satellites and using spectrum. Devas was asked to lease 70 MHZ of S-band spectrum from the two satellites that were launched by ISRO and to pay USD 300 million for the rights. However, the government scrapped the deal. Antrix, ISRO has been asked to pay USD 672 million in damages.
Question: A new species of rock dwelling lizard has been found in Kanker district of Chattisgarh What is its name?
A. Kaner Rock Gecko
B. Hermidactylus yajurvedi
C. Both are the same
D. None of the above
Answer: Both are the same
Explanation: Researchers have found a new species of rock dwelling lizard at Chattisgarh’s Kanker. Finding was led by scientists of the ZSI Kozhikode and published in international journal ZootaxA. The new gecko species has been called Kanker Rock Gecko/Hemidactylus yajurvedi. This lizard is large sized and has a snout-vent length of up to 98 mm and is the 27th species belonging to this genre found in IndiA. Discovery was made by ZSI in collaboration with other institutions and research organisations such as TIFR, IISc and Centre for Ecological Sciences. With close to 121 species distributed along the tropics and subtropical region, this is one of the most species rich gekkonid generA. A new species was revealed following morphological and molecular examination. The new species has been located at 5 places in Chattisgarh. The species has been named after Hanumanth Narasimhachar Yajurvedi, professor, department of studies and research in Zoology at Manasagangotri, University of Mysore.
Question: NGT Tribunal has issued a notice to Centre seeking response to which plea on 1st October 2015?
A. Nationwide ban on killing of indigenous cattle in view of their falling numbers
B. Nationwide ban on killing of indigenous cattle on account of their religious significance
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Nationwide ban on killing of indigenous cattle in view of their falling numbers
Explanation: NGT issues a notice to the Centre seeking ban on slaughter of indigenous cattle with respect to their falling numbers. NGT’s Justice U. D. Salvi directed the government to respond by October 30,2015. Increasing influx of foreign exotic cows in India are causing indigenous breeds to be led to slaughter houses for meat and leather. Indigenous cattle have more disease resistance and can adapt to weather changes and climatic disturbances in in IndiA. Some of the desi cow breeds include Gir, Red Sindhi and Sahiwal.
Question: Invisible clouds of electromagnetic radiation to enable mobile and Wi-Fi networks refer to:
A. Electrofog
B. Electromist
C. Electrosmog
D. None of the above
Answer: Electrosmog
Explanation: Humans are surrounded by electrosmog, which refers to invisible clouds of electromagnetic radiation enabling mobile and Wi-Fi networks and it can also power small devices. Former science minister Paul Drayson has developed an energy harvesting system referred to as Freevolt which employs the use of an antenna to draw power from numerous wavebands of electromagnetic spectrum while fitting into a credit card sized unit. Technology was placed inside a personal air pollution sensor referred to as CleanSpace. This allows individuals to monitor air quality around them. Sensor referred to as Tag pairs with mobile app to monitor CO levels and transport choices selected by each individual. This marks the first time a commercial device powered only by ambient radio frequency energy has been developeD. Personal air quality sensor has been developed in view of the problems faced during air pollution.
Question: Britain has officially approved which scientific procedure for the first time on October 1st, 2015
A. Foetus transplant
B. Embryo transplant
C. Womb Transplant
D. Placenta transplant
Answer: Womb Transplant
Explanation: Britain has approved 10 womb transplant operations following the successful birth of a baby from the transplanted womb in Sweden on September 2014. This is the first baby in the world born to a woman using the same womb from which she was herself born. Operation is perfect for those who do not have the chance of carrying their own baby due to lack of a viable womb.
Question: WHO has announced that which disease will now be treated as soon as it is diagnosed with life saving drugs?
A. HIV
B. Malaria
C. Typhoid
D. Encephalitis
Answer: HIV
Explanation: For the first time, WHO has indicated that everyone with HIV will be offered life saving drugs at the time of diagnosis. WHO has indicated that governments do not have to wait till the disease progresses, which was part of the earlier procedure, to initiate Antiretroviral Therapy/ART. ART is free in India under National Aids Control Programme but treatment is not provided for every HIV patient. ART was earlier initiated depending upon the infection stage. All populations and age groups are now eligible for treatment. Recent findings indicate early use of ART keeps people living with HIV alive and more healthy with less likelihood of transmitting the virus. Based on the initial recommendation, persons eligible for antiretroviral treatment will increase to 37 million from 28 million. Change in global HIV policy could avert close to over 20 million deaths and 28 million new infections by 2030.
Question: Which Indian pistol shooter won the gold medal at the 8th Asian Air Gun Championships and is the first Indian woman to be ranked number one pistol shooter in the world?
A. Shweta Singh
B. Heena Sindhu
C. Rahi Sarnobot
D. Yashaswini Singh Deshwal
Answer: Heena Sindhu
Explanation: Indian pistol shooter Heena Sindhu won the gold medal at the 10m air pistol event at the 8th Asian Air Gun Championships in New Delhi. She is the first shooter from India to be ranked number 1 in the worlD. Shweta Singh won the silver medal while Korean shooter Seon. A Kim settled for bronze. Indian shooter Yashaswini Singh Deshwal has finished fourth in the final. India won an impressive haul of 17 medals, including 6 gold, to top the championships. Iran took second place while Taipei was third.
Question: Non food credit growth of scheduled CoBs slowed from 10.2% in August 2014 to which value in August 2015?
A. 8.1%
B. 8.2%
C. 8.4%
D. 8.5%
Answer: 8.5%
Explanation: Non-food credit growth of scheduled commercial banks slowed to 8.4 percent in August from 10.2 percent in the same period last year, RBI data proveD. Personal loans increased 17.3 percent in August, up from a rise of 13.4 percent in August 2014. Credit to agriculture and allied activities rose by 12.1 percent in August compared with an increase of 18.8 percent in the previous fiscal. Loans to industry grew 5 percent in the month, up from 7.8 percent.
Question: WEF released the Global Competitiveness Report 2015-2016 according to which India is ranked ____.
A. 52
B. 53
C. 54
D. 55
Answer: 55
Explanation: WEF released the Global Competitiveness Report on 30th September 2015 assessing the economic competitiveness landscape of 140 nations providing insights into growth of productivity and prosperity. After 5 years of decline, India jumped up to 55th place compared to rank 71 in 2014-2015. Top countries in ranking were Switzerland, Singapore, US, Germany, Netherlands, Japan, Hong Kong, Finland, Sweden and UK. The Global Competitiveness Report’s competitiveness ranking is based on the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), which was introduced by WEF in 2004.
Question: Which Indian business leader was awarded the highest honour by the city of Coventry on 1st October 2015?
A. Kumaramangalam Birla
B. Harsh Goenka
C. Adi Godrej
D. Ratan Tata
Answer: Ratan Tata
Explanation: Coventry on 1st October 2015 honoured Ratan Tata with the highest award - Honorary Freeman of the City of Coventry. Since 1914, only 13 people have been conferred with the award.An Indian origin professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya, who founded the the Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), also won the title along with Tata at University of Warwick in Coventry. In 2000, Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of TATA Group was awarded the Padma Bhushan. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in the year 2008.
Question: Chinese people celebrated their National Day on ___ October.
A. 1st
B. 2nd
C. 3rd
D. 4th
Answer: 1st
Explanation: Chinese National Day was celebrated on 1st October 2015. Indian PM Narendra Modi wished the Chinese people on microblogging site Sina Weibo. The latest round of visits include President Xi’s to India in September 2014 and Modi’s visit to China in May 2015. PRC was formed on October 1st, 1949 which is celebrated as the National Day.
Question: International Day of Older Persons was celebrated on which day?
A. 1st October 2015
B. 2nd October 2015
C. 3rd October 2015
D. 4th October 2015
Answer: 1st October 2015
Explanation: International Day of Older Persons was celebrated on October 1, 2015 across the globe with the theme Sustainability and Age Inclusiveness in the Urban Environment. The 2015 IDOP celebration demonstrated that an age inclusive agenda is crucial to promote equity, welfare and prosperity for all. The 2015 celebration marked IDOP’s 25th anniversary. On 14th December 1990, 1st October was declared as IDOP by UNGA following initiatives including Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, which was adopted by the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing and endorsed later that year by UNGA. IDOP was observed for the first time throughout the globe on October 1st, 1991.
Question: Book on Lata Mangeshkar entitled “Lata Mangeshkar: A Musical Journey” has been authored by:
A. Ira Pande
B. Yatindra Mishra
C. Tarun Vijay
D. Chetan Bhagat
Answer: Yatindra Mishra
Explanation: Book on “Lata Mangeshkar: A Musical Journey” written by Hindi poet and author Yatindra Mishra with complete cooperation of Lata ji was translated by Sahitya Akademi Award winning writer Ira Pande. It contains facts and anecdotes of the life of the Queen of Hindi Music from 1940s to current times.
Question: Infosys will collaborate with which company to create new IoT solutions, as per an announcement on 30th September 2015?
A. GE
B. Symantec
C. HP
D. None of the above
Answer: GE
Explanation: Infosys is aiming to create new Internet of Things solutions to derive practical benefits from tons of data generated via connected devices in industrial enterprise with GE. Infosys is the second largest IT services firm who has collaborated with GE and others to develop solutions. Two Infosys led testbeds have been approved by Industrial Internet Consortium. Two Big Data analaytics will be used for developing IDT namely Infosys Information Platform (providing in memory data analytics and big data management) and GE’s Predix platform for delivering data acquisition, processing and user interface as well as app development. IDT has been co-developed by Infosys and GE and will be first implemented as a pilot project in GE Aviation.
Question: Growth of how many core sectors has slowed to 2.6 percent in August on account of contraction in steel output, according to the Commerce and Industry Ministry?
A. 5
B. 6
C. 7
D. 8
Answer: 8
Explanation: The growth of eight core sectors slowed down to 2.6 per cent in August
The slowdown in growth was mainly due to contraction of steel output. Expansion in 8 infrastructure sectors contributing 38 percent to overall industrial production was 5.9 percent in August in 2014. August 2015 output was only higher than previous month where core sectors had grown by 1.1 percent. Data released by Commerce and Industry Ministry also said steel output in month under review fell to 5.9% as against positive growth of 9.4% in August 2014. Coal, cement and electricity output slowed down to 0.4 per cent, 5.4 per cent and 5.6 percent respectively during the last month, as compared to 13.2 percent, 10 per cent and 12.9 percent.
The following sectors -rude oil, natural gas, refinery products and fertilisers-recorded healthy growth. In March and April 2015, the eight industries witnessed contraction of 0.1 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively. However, in May and June the core sectors expanded by 4.4 per cent and 3 per cent respectively. In the April-August period of the current fiscal, the core sectors’ output expanded by 2.2 percent as against 5.6 percent in the first five months of 2014-15.
Question: Aditya Birla has bought a minority stake in which women’s brand apparel retailer on 30th September 2015?
A. Myntra
B. Jabong
C. Creative Lifestyles
D. None of the above
Answer: Creative Lifestyles
Question: China’s rising assertions in S. China Sea have precipitated the first ever tri-ministerial dialogue between which three countries on 30th September 2015?
A. India, Japan and China
B. India, Japan and the UK
C. India, Japan and Malaysia
D. India, Japan and the US
Answer: India, Japan and the US
Explanation: Regarding China’s growing assertiveness in S. China Sea, India, Japan and the IS have hosted their first ever trilateral ministerial dialogue aimed towards peaceful dispute settlement, ease of navigation and lawful commerce. Associated with a quarter of the world’s population and economic production power, 3 nations also agreed to partner each other for protecting maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. Meeting was attended by MEA minister Sushma Swaraj, Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida and US Secretary of State John Kerry. The 3 nations represent a quarter of the population and economic production power of the world and highlighted shared support for peace, prosperity and democracy as well as rules based global order.
Question: NGT has directed authorities of which state to stop illegal sand mining on 30th September 2015?
A. MP
B. Rajasthan
C. UP
D. Chattisgarh
Answer: UP
Explanation: NGO Jan Sasharktikaran sought action against illegal sand mining on river Betwa from the NGT. Following this, NGT has directed authorities to stop illegal sand mining in Jalaun and Hamirpur district of UP. Bench headed by U. D. Salvi has issued notice to MoEF, state PCBs and others directing authorities to stop these activities. Sand mining disrupts aquatic life and river ecology.
Question: Drug firm GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals acquired which company’s vaccines business and divested its marketed oncology portfolio to them on 30th September 2015?
A. Ranbaxy
B. Sun Pharmaceuticals
C. Novartis
D. None of the above
Answer: Novartis
Explanation: GSK pharma has completed its transaction with Novartis Healthy Private Limited, acquiring the vaccine business of Novartis and divesting marketed oncology portfolio to Novartis IndiA. This is the result of a transaction between Novartis and GSK on March 2015. Acquisition will give GSK opportunity to create a strong global vaccine business. As per the agreement, Novartis was to acquire GlaxoSmithKline plc’s (GSK) cancer drugs portfolio for USD 16 billion and sell its vaccines business in return for USD 7.1 billion, besides forming a JV for the consumer healthcare business in a 3-part transaction.
Question: BAI has announced the appointment of which company as the official marketing and sponsorship partner for the second finale of the IBL scheduled from January 2nd to 17th in 2016?
A. Sportsville
B. Sportsgroup
C. Sportzlive
D. None of the above
Answer: Sportzlive
Explanation: BAI had announced the appointment of Sportzlive as official marketing and sponsorship partner for second season of Indian Badminton League scheduled from January 2nd to 17th in 2016. The company is associated with investing and creating sports IPR in India and its key promoters are Gaurav Bahal and Atul Pande, associated with more than 25 years of collective sports and media experience. Deal gives Sportzville the right to approach corporates, brands and business owners for sponsorship and franchisee slots in League. IBL will feature 6 franchise teams across India to boost the experience with the inclusion of talented domestic and international players. Player auctions have been scheduled for November 20, 2015.
Question: Which 3 State run lenders have trimmed their base or minimum lending rates reaction to the policy rate cut by RBI?
A. Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Oriental Bank of Commerce
B. Dena Bank, State Bank of Travancore and Central Bank of India
C. State Bank of Travancore, Dena Bank and Oriental Bank of Commerce
D. None of the above
Answer: Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Oriental Bank of Commerce
Explanation: State operated lenders PNB, BoB and OBC have lowered their base or minimum lending rate with respect to RBI policy rate cut. PNB cut the base rate by 0.40 percent while BoB lowered base rate by 0.25 percent while OBC cut the rate by 0.20 percent. Base rate cit is by 40 basis points from 10% to 9.6% from October 1, 2015. BoB has decided to reduce rates by 25 basis points from 9.90% per annum to 9.65% and also lowered BPLR by 25 basis points from 14.15 percent to 13.90 percent. Lowering of rates will be effective from October 5th, 2015. OBC has slashed bank rates by 20 basis points from 9.90% per annum to 9.70% w.e.f September 30, 2015. Axis bank was the first among private lenders to announce a rate cut while SBI, Andhra Bank and Bank of India were among the first to lower base rate in range of 0.20 to 0.40 percent in response to RBI repo rate cut of 50 bps to 6.75%.
Question: Foreign owned assets in India rose to which value in April-June quarter of 2015-2016 as against the last three months of the previous fiscal, according to RBI data?
A. 891.5 billion
B. 891.2 billion
C. 881.5 billion
D. 881.2 billion
Answer: 891.5 billion
Explanation: Foreign owned assets in India increased by USD 12.1 billion to USD 891.5 billion during April-June quarter of current fiscal as against 3 months of the previous fiscal, as per RBI datA. This is on account of rise of USD 2.6 billion in India portfolio investment and increase of USD 5.6 billion in direct investment into the nation. Net claims of NRIs increased by USD 0.6 billion over previous quarter to USD 362.3 billion towards the close of June 2015, as per RBI data on IIP for the April-June quarter. Ratio of India’s global financial assets to global financial liabilities was at 59.4 percent in the month of June 2015 as against 58.9% in March 2015. Regarding the assets front, India residents’ financial assets abroad were pegged at USD 529.2 billion up from USD 11.4 billion during the preceding quarter on account of rise of USD 1.3 billion in reserve assets, according to RBI. Difference between assets and liabilities as shown by net IIP is disseminated with a quarter lag. IIP is a vital input for comprehending external sustainability and vulnerability.
Question: Researchers have found that nerve cells at which part of the brain send out electrical signals in either a constant hum or in sudden bursts, on 30th September 2015?
A. Cerebrum
B. Amygdala
C. Hypothalamus
D. Cerebellum
Answer: Cerebellum
Explanation: The decision to pick out a constant hum or sudden bursts made by cells is associated with voltage across cell membranes and input from certain regions of the brain under specific conditions. This has been demonstrated by scientists M. Sengupta and V. Thirumalai from NCBS in Bengaluru. Cerebellum, a small structure at the brain’s base controls acquisition of new motor skills, balance and coordination. Permitting these functions are nerve cells referred to as Purkinje cells neatly arranged in simple layers within the cerebellum. The tune theory shows cells receive signals from varied brain parts and send out messages to deeper layer of cerebellum.
Question: Which well known international figure associated with the NSA has joined Twitter on 29th September 2015?
A. Julian Assange
B. Edward Snowden
C. Richard Ledgett
D. Michael S. Rogers
Answer: Edward Snowden
Explanation: Edward Snowden, former NSA whistleblower has joined social media network Twitter on 29th September 2015. His handle @Snowden has close to 100,000 followers and is rapidly increasing. Snowden is following NSA’s official twitter account and his first tweet was “Can you hear me now?”. He was given political asylum in Russia in summer 2013 after his passport was revoked by the US.
Question: Which prominent business leader is set to retire after a 13 year stint with a bank?
A. Arundhati Bhattacharya
B. Naina Lal Kidwai
C. Chanda Kocchar
D. None of the above
Answer: Naina Lal Kidwai
Explanation: HSBC India Chairperson Naina Lal Kidwai will retire in December, after a 13-year stint with the bank, HSBC announced on September 30, 2015.She will also step down from her position of executive Director on the Board of HSBC Asia-PacifiC. Kidwai joined HSBC in 2002 as Vice Chairman and Managing Director at HSBC Securities and Capital Markets, India and was appointed Group General Manager of the Bank in 2006. She was appointed as CEO of HSBC India in 2007 and as Chairman of HSBC India in 2009.
Question: Which digital wing of NDTV group has signed a strategic deal with US based Taboola on September 30, 2015?
A. NDTV Technologies
B. NDTV Digital
C. NDTV Convergence
D. None of the above
Answer: NDTV Convergence
Explanation: NDTV Convergence, the digital wing of NDTV group, on 30 September 2015 signed a strategic agreement with the US-based content recommendations engine Taboola worth around INR 100 crore for 3 years for jumpstarting the entire network of desktop and mobile sites of NDTV.Taboola will serve as the exclusive, multi-platform content discovery partner across all the sections of NDTV and offer advertisers with an option to target the premium NDTV audience through native content marketing. Both the companies also aim to increase user engagement. New Delhi Television Limited is an Indian commercial broadcasting TV network founded by Prannoy and Radhika Roy while Taboola is a content marketing platform formed by Adam Singolda in the year 2007.
Question: Who was appointed as the DGP of Maharashtra State on 29th September 2015?
A. Praveen Kapse
B. Praveen Tawde
C. Praveen Dixit
D. Vijay Kamble
Answer: Praveen Dixit
Explanation: Maharashtra Anti-Corruption Bureau chief Praveen Dixit was appointed as the state's Director General of Police (DGP) on 29th September 2015. A 1977 batch officer, he will have a tenure of one year and has succeeded Sanjeev Dayal who retired from office on September 30, 2015. Other appointments were also made. Senior IPS officer Vijay Kamble has been appointed as the new DG of ACB while 1981 batch IPS officer Satish Mathur has been appointed Director General and Managing Director of State Police Housing and Welfare Corporation (MSPHWC). Meera Borwankar, Additional DG of Police (Prisons), has been promoted and posted as Director General of Legal and Technical Department.
Question: International Translation Day was observed across the world on which day?
A. 28th September
B. 29th September
C. 30th September
D. 31st September
Answer: 30th September
Explanation: The theme for this day was the “Changing Face of Translation and Interpreting”. This day has been established by the International Federation of Translators to pay tribute to the work of translators. This day coincides with the feast day of St. Jerome who translated Bible into Latin from Hebrew. He is the patron saint for translators and this day has been celebrated as International Translation Day since 1991.
Question: Leaders’ Summit on Peacekeeping was held on 28 September 2015 at which location?
A. Washington, USA
B. New York, USA
C. Chicago USA
D. Seattle USA
Answer: New York, USA
Explanation: Leaders’s Summit on Peacekeeping was held at New York in the US at the UN HQ on the margins of the high level debate of UNGA. It was attended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and leaders of more than 50 nations including IndiA. Leaders of these countries reviewed current operations of 125,000 strong UN peacekeeping force UN Peacekeeping has an annual average budget of USD 8.2 billion and is involved in 12 missions across 4 continents. India is the largest contributor to the mission.
Question: Which meeting of the Western Zonal Council was held at Panaji on 29th September 2015 in Goa?
A. 20th
B. 21st
C. 22nd
D. 23rd
Answer: 21st
Explanation: 21st Meeting of the Western Zonal Council was held on September 29 at Panaji, Goa in the year 2015. Council was chaired by Union Home Minister R. Singh and discussed development issues with social and economic bearing. Council called for enhanced centre- state cooperation and discussed relaxation of provisions of CRZ Notification 2011. Next Zonal Council meeting will be at Mumbai, MaharashtrA. The creation of Zonal Councils was first put forth by Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru in the 1950s. Besides this, North-Eastern States Council was established under the North Eastern Council Act, 1972. Western Zonal Council comprises the States of Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra and the Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
Question: 17th All India Government Whips conference 2015 was held in which state from 29th September to 30th September 2015?
A. TN
B. Arunachal Pradesh
C. WB
D. Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
Explanation: 17th All-India Government Whips Conference was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh from 29 to 30 September 2015 presided by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs M. Venkaiah Naidu. This conference was attended by close to 179 whips from numerous state assemblies, legislative councils and houses of the Parliament. The conference discussed aspects like MPLAD scheme fund utilisation and releasing of more funds to MPs. At the time of the conference, it was decided MP salaries and allowances will be reviewed after 5 years and a 3 member Independent Emoluments Commission has been appointed for the same in consultation with LS Speaker and RS chairman. The commission will consist of a Chief Commissioner who shall be a person of eminence in the field of public affairs with knowledge of functioning of Parliament and two more commissioners. The Whips Conference provides a suitable forum for periodical meetings and view exchange amongst all the Whips in Parliament and the State Legislatures on united concerns apart from promoting parliamentary democracy in India.
Question: Which Indian American academic has been named a 2015 MacArthur Fellow on 29th September 2015?
A. Kartik Chandran
B. Vinay Chandran
C. Pranay Chandran
D. None of the above
Answer: Kartik Chandran
Explanation: Kartik Chandran, Indo-American associate professor of earth and environmental engineering at Columbia Engineering was named a 2015 MacArthur Fellow on 29th September 2015. He was also provided a genius grant of ISD 625,000 for working on research solutions to world’s need for energy, clean water and fooD. He is an IIT Roorkee graduate and his previous research includes using microbes to turn waste water into drinking water and fertilizer energy. He has previously received grants from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 2011 and the Water Environment Research Foundation Paul L. Busch Award (2010), a National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2009) and a National Academies of Science Fellowship (2007). MacArthur Fellows Programme is also known as Genius Grant.
Question: Social justice and empowerment ministry had launched which campaign that focuses on building accessible government buildings for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in September 2015?
A. Accessible India
B. Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
C. Both are same
D. Neither of the above
Answer:  Both are same
Explanation: The campaign was initiated by the government to increase the accessibility of the physical environment in the country. In addition, the campaign focuses on enhancing the accessibility and usability of Public Transport, and information & communication. The department has planned to make public buildings in 50 cities of the country including four cities of Maharashtra namely Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Nagpur accessible to PwDs. States will pick at least 50-100 public buildings that will be made accessible to PwDs via retrofitting of ramps, lifts, toilets and signage.
Question: India’s GDP estimate for the current fiscal has been lowered from 7.8% on average monsoon to which percentage, as per Fitch Ratings?
A. 7.3
B. 7.4
C. 7.4
D. 7.5
Answer: 7.5
Explanation: Fitch Ratings has said in its Global Economic Outlook report that GDP growth in the first quarter had slowed from 7.5% to 7% in the preceding quarter based on moderating private consumption growth as well as lower net exports. India is one of the fastest BRICS nations with 7.5 investment. This estimate comes after RBI revised downwards real GDP forecast for 2015-2016 to 7.4% from earlier estimate of 7.6% indicating growth is expected to be picked up in the latter stage of the fiscal. Below average rainfall caused during this year’s monsoon season recorded at 14 percent under average is likely to somewhat grow. Agriculture constitutes 18% of India’s GDP. Regarding the China slowdown, India will be less affected by falling demand, Fitch said.

 AIMS DARE TO SUCCESS


ALL INDIA CURRENT AFFAIRS NOVEMBER 2015

Question: Which scheme has been launched under which 10 African countries have committed to restore 31 million hectares of degraded and deforested land, under a new push to make 100 million hectares productive again by 2030?
A. AFR200
B. AFR100
C. AFR50
D. AFR300
Answer: AFR100
Explanation: AFR100 scheme launched will be backed by USD 1 billion from WB and additional funds from Germany as well as USD 545 in private sector investment. Forest landscape restoration will result from rise in agricultural yields in rural communities to diversify livelihooD. Countries taking part in this scheme include Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Rwanda, Togo and Uganda.Implementing those pledges starting in 2020 would reduce Africa's annual emissions by 36 percent, or 0.25 percent of global emissions, according to the World Resources Institute.
Question: As per provisional data, India has exported __________ lakh tonnes of iron ore in the first seven months of fiscal 2015-2016.
A. 10.74
B. 10.75
C. 10.76
D. 10.77
Answer: 10.75
Explanation: India has exported 10.75 lakh tons iron ore in April to October has per provision data released by the Ministry of Steel and mines. Conservation of iron ore resources is also imperative. Close to 74.90 lakh tonnes of iron ore had been exported in FY2014-2015. Currently, ad valorem duty of 30% is levied w.e.f December 12, 2011 on export of all grades of iron ore except low grades carrying duty of more than 10% while iron ore pellets have export duty of 5%.
Question: Armed Forces Flag Day was observed on which date?
A. 5th December
B. 6th December
C. 7th December
D. 4th December
Answer: 6th December
Explanation: President of IndiA. Shri. Pranab Mukherjee has issued a congratulatory message on the eve of Armed Forces Flag Day, which was observed on 7th December 2015. Armed forces have protected India’s territorial integrity and boundaries. This day is a celebration of their unique services to the nation.
Question: The first washable _______ phone has been developed by Japanese researchers.
A. Mobile
B. Hand
C. Portable
D. Smart
Answer: Smart
Explanation: A Japanese firm Kyocera has developed the first waterproof smartphone that can be washed with soap and water. Waterproof phones have been on the market for a while in Japan. However, that did not protect phones from the kind of rigorous scrubbing needed to actually clean the device and kill bacteria.
Question: Which Indian boxer has qualified for the Olympic Test event in Rio de Janeiro assuring a bronze medal?
A. Sarita Devi
B. MC Mary Kom
C. Aruna Mishra
D. Kavita Goyat
Answer: MC Mary Kom
Explanation: Olympic bronze medallist MC Mary Kom has won atleast a bronze medal by reaching the semifinals of the AIBA Olympic Test event in Rio de Janeiro. She defeated Venezuela's Karlha Magliocco 3-0 in the quarterfinal bout of the event, where boxers have been individually invited by the world body and the Rio Olympics organising committee.
Question: Which ace Indian shuttler has been nominated for Woman Player of the Year Award, BWF?
A. Saina Nehwal
B. PV Sindhu
C. Jwala Gata
D. Ashwini Ponappa
Answer: Saina Nehwal
Explanation: Well known Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal has been nominated for Woman Player of the Year Award of Badminton World Federation following consistence occupation of the world number one spot. Saina is currently ranked number two and will view for the award with Spain’s Carolina Marin, China’s Bao Yixin and Zhao Yunlei. She has attained the feat of being the first world number one in women’s singles and also reaching finals of BWF World Championships and All England and Thaihot China Open.
Question: LS has passed a bill to enhance compensation for air travellers. What is it called?
A. Carriage by Air (Amendment) Bill 2015
B. Carriage through Air (Amendment) Bill 2015
C. Aviation Carriage Amendment Bill 2015
D. Aviation and Carriage Amendment Bill 2015
Answer: Carriage by Air (Amendment) Bill 2015
Explanation: LS has passed a bill entitled Carriage by Air (Amendment) Bill 2015 for enhancing the compensation airlines must give to passengers in the event of flight delays, death, injury or lost baggage. Death in an air accident will now fetch compensation of INR 1 crore as against 89 lakh earlier. Bill also gives GoI the capacity to revise liability limits of air carriers in line with Montreal Convention.
Question: Finance Ministry has ordered a forensic probe into which scam on 2nd December 2015?
A. INR 6000 crore Bank of Baroda forex scam
B. INR 5000 crore Oriental Bank of Commerce forex scam
C. INR 4500 crore State Bank of India forex scam
D. None of the above
Answer: INR 6000 crore Bank of Baroda forex scam
Explanation: A forensic probe has been ordered into irregularities in outward foreign remittances to the value of INR 6000 crore from the Bank of BarodA. CBI and ED have registered cases on the basis of complaints filed by banks pertaining to irregularities in outward foreign remittances. Department of Financial Services has ordered a probe into 11 companies involved in the transaction.
Question: EPFO has invested INR ____ in ETFs till November 26, 2015, according to the Labour Ministry.
A. 2907
B. 2908
C. 2909
D. None of the above
Answer: 2909
Explanation: EPFO has invested INR 2909 within a span of 4 months in Exchange Traded Funds to maximise earnings. As per approval of CBT, EPFO is said to invest only 5% of its investment in ETF during this financial year. The EPFO has invested Rs 2,322.10 crore in ETFs during August-October on which it earned an annualised return of 1.52 percent.
Question: Bihar unit of BJP on 29th November 2015 elected which party leader as senior legislature party leader?
A. Nand Kishore Yadav
B. Prem Kumar
C. Sanjay Chaurasia
D. None of the above
Answer: Prem Kumar
Explanation: Bihar unit of the BJP on 29th November elected senior party leader and 7 time Gaya town MLA was Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly. Its winter session will commence on Monday, 30th November 2015. While a total of 243 seats saw a share of 53 for BJP in the assembly elections, party leader Kumar won the Gaya town seat for the seventh time.
Question: Centre has formed which council recently to be headed by the Mines Secretary on 29th November 2015?
A. Development Council for Marine Industry
B. Development Council for Mining Industry
C. Development Council for Granite Industry
D. None of the above
Answer: Development Council for Granite Industry
Explanation: Centre has formed a council to be represented by Central and state government officials, exporters and experts known as the Development Council for Granite Industry. This council will be headed by Mines Secretary and its first meeting of the council will take place on December 1.
Question:  What is the term for rupee dominated bonds issued to international buyers?
A. Masala bonds
B. Green bonds
C. Gold bonds
D. Convertible bonds
Answer: Masala bonds
Explanation: Bonds are debt instruments used for raising money from investors. Prior to the advent of masala bonds, corporates have to rely on avenues such as ECB. Masala bonds are rupee denominated bonds issued to international buyers. In the case of masala bond, corporate could issue INR 10 billion worth of bonds while paying back INR 11 billion in one year. As the Indian rupee will have limited convertibility, investors will lend dollar equivalent of INR 10 billion. Indian corporate then needs to pay back dollar equivalent of INR 11 billion with the currency risk being with the investor. International Finance Corporation, investment arm of WB issued a INR 1000 crore bond in November 2014 which earned the name masala bond to account for the Indian angle. Chinese yuan denominated Dim Sum Bonds are also there as are Japanese yen dominated bonds called Samurai.
Question: Which researchers have developed a technique which has been fed into high quality data satellites associated with supercomputers?
A. IIT-B
B. IIT-Kharagpur
C. IIT-M
D. None of the above
Answer: IIT-M
Explanation: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras developed a technique depending on “data assimilation” method depending upon high quality data being processed from satellites on supercomputers. IMD meteorologists have followed a synoptic method for cyclone prediction where weather observations are taken from ships or on the ground and in the upper atmosphere with the aid of sensors attached to balloons.
Question: PV Sindhu won which women’s singles title for the third time in a row on 29th November 2015?
A. Macau Open Grand Prix
B. Singapore Open
C. World Badminton Championship
D. Hong Kong Open
Answer: Macau Open Grand Prix
Explanation: Two time defending champion PV Sindhu has completed a hat-trick of singles titles winning a match for the third time in the row at the Macau Open Grand Prix GolD. She defeated Minatsu Mitani in the finals in a game 21-9, 21-23, 21-14 against the sixth seeded player in a long match. Sindhu is currently World Number 12.
Question: President Vladimir Putin has imposed economic sanctions against which country on 28th November 2015?
A. Syria
B. Turkey
C. India
D. None of the above
Answer: Turkey
Explanation: Russia’s president Vladimir Putin has signed a decree imposing punitive economic sanctions against Turkey on 28th November 2015 following Turkey’s shooting down a Russian warplane. Decree says charter flights from Russia to Turkey have been banned and unspecified Turkish imports will be outlawed while Turkish firms and nations would face curbs in their economic activities.
Question: Which disease causing pathogen has developed resistance to third generation antibiotics in India?
A. Salomanella Typhii
B. Klebsiella
C. Both of the above
D. Neither a nor b
Answer: Klebsiella
Explanation: A bug which was earlier treated by moderate class antibiotics has now resisted treatment from third generation antibiotics or carbapanems. The Klebsiella pathogen has led to higher mortality in patients and has become colistin resistant. Colistin is the final antibiotic for treating infections which other antibiotics have failed to treat. Klebsiella has led to UTI and ventilator acquired pneumonias and blood stream infections.
Question: Which pharmaceutical major has signed an investment agreement with FIL Capital Investments Mauritius II Ltd on 28th November 2015?
A. Ranbaxy
B. Cipla
C. Sun
D. GlaxoSmithKline
Answer: Cipla
Explanation: Pharma major Cipla Ltd, through its completely owned subsidiary Cipla Health and FIL Capital Investments (Mauritius) II Ltd have signed an agreement regarding the consumer healthcare business of Cipla, divested as a subsidiary in July in 2015. Investment is subject to approval from FIPB.
Question:  Which 4 nations have come together to establish a Commonwealth Trade Finance Facility for boosting trade and investment flows?
A. India, Malta, Maldives and Bangladesh
B. India, Malta, Afghanistan and Pakistan
C. Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and Maldives
D. Sri Lanka, India, Malta and Mauritius
Answer: Sri Lanka, India, Malta and Mauritius
Explanation: Sri Lanka, Malta, India and Mauritius have joined hands to establish Commonwealth Trade Finance Facility for boosting trade and investment flows especially for developing nations in the Commonwealth. The 4 nations have formed a Declaration of Intent at the ongoing Commonwealth Summit in MaltA. Funds will cover risk for provision of trade credit in Commonwealth nation financial institutions. Funds are voluntary in nature aiming to attract start up capital of USD 20 million.
Question: Which country has made the decision to resume whaling in the Antarctic ocean by March 2016?
A. China
B. Japan
C. Singapore
D. Malaysia
Answer: Japan
Explanation: Japan has taken the decision to resume whaling in the Antarctic Ocean by March enD. By March 2014, ICJ had ruled that Japan’s decades old whale hunt in the Antarctic should stop. Japan fisheries agency has notified the International Whaling Commission on 27th November 2015 that Japan will resume whaling under the revised plan in the 2015/2016 season. Plan has also made the decision to cut annual minke whale catches by two thirds to 333. Scientific whaling in Japan commenced in 1987.
Question: Which tropical storm is approaching the Pacific coast of Mexico on 28th November 2015?
A. Melinda
B. Patricia
C. Sandra
D. None of the above
Answer: Patricia
Explanation: Tropical storm Sandra has lost strength as it has approached Mexico’s Pacific coast. Maximum speed of the winds of this storm fell to 65 mph and Sandra will make its landfall on 28th November 2015. Sandra is centred around 205 miles southwest of Mazatlan in Mexico and is moving north at 10 mph.
Question: Which computer security company has hired retired forensics expert Jim Christy as vice president of investigations and digital forensics?
A. Symantec
B. Cymmetria
C. Norton
D. None of the above
Answer: Cymmetria
Explanation: Former US government forensics expert Jim Christy has been hired by computer security startup Cymmetria as the vice president of investigations and digital forensics. Use of decoy servers by Christy sought to reveal techniques of hackers. He retired from the US government in the year 2013. Cymmetria was founded in 2014 by Gadi Evron, a former PriceWaterhouseCooper executive. This startup is San Francisco based.
Question: China’s biggest wireless carrier China Mobile has indicated on 27th November 2015 that it will acquire which company’s fixed line telecom business?
A. Tie Tong
B. Die Tong
C. Sie Tong
D. None of the above
Answer: Tie Tong
Explanation: The larges wireless carrier in China, China Mobile on 27th November 2015 has indicated that it will acquire sister company Tie Tong’s fixed line telecom business for USD 4.99 billion to boost its business presence in ChinA. CMTie Tong which is the wholly acquired subsidiary of China Mobile has agreed to acquire fixed line telecom business from Tie Tong.
Question: Which former boxing champion was recently gunned down on 27th November 2015?
A. O’Riel Bell
B. O’Neil Bell
C. Muhammad Ali
D. None of the above
Answer: O’Neil Bell
Explanation: Ex undisputed boxing champion O’Neil Bell has been gunned down by Atlanta robbers. The 40 year old Jamaican born ex cruiserweight champion completed his 13 year career with a record 27 wins. Bell held the World Boxing Council, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association titles simultaneously after knocking out France's Jean-Marc Mormeck in 2006.
Question: The roll out of BS-VI fuel compliant 4 wheelers has been advanced by two years to which year?
A. 2022
B. 2023
C. 2021
D. 2019
Answer: 2021
Explanation: Transport ministry has made the decision to advance launch of BS-VI fuel compliant 4 wheelers by two years from 2023 to 2021. The ministry had earlier moved the deadline by one year from the original deadline of 2024. The decision to pre-pone the rolling out has been taken to reduce vehicular pollution. Ministry has issued draft notification on manufacturing of both BS-V and BS-VI fuel compliant four- wheelers, according to which all new models of 4 wheelers manufactured after April 2019 have to be BS-V compliant. All new models of 4 wheelers produced after April 2021 will be BS-VI fuel compliant and existing models must meet requirement from April 2022.
Question: Government has given the nod for INR 3120 crore for infrastructure boost in how many AMRUT cities on 27th November 2015?
A. 100
B. 101
C. 102
D. 103
Answer: 102
Explanation: GoI has approved investment of INR 3120 crore for boosting urban infrastructure in 102 cities of 5 states including increased water supply, enhanced sewerage network, transportation system which is non-motorized and availability of public spaces. The investment has been approved under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation.
Question: India has added 2311 MW of power generation capacity in FY 16. What is the target of the power generation capacity including power generation capacity addition from renewable energy sources?
A. 4360 MW
B. 4460 MW
C. 4560 MW
D. None of the above
Answer: 4460 MW
Explanation: India has added 2311 MW green power generation capacity in the current fiscal. GoI has also set a target of 4460 MW of power generation capacity from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar as well as small hydro. In the first 7 months of the current fiscal, 827.22 MW of solar power generation capacity was added, taking cumulative electricity generation capacity from source to 4579.24 MW. Centre is also aiming to add 1400 M solar power generation capacity in the current fiscal.
Question: FIPB has cleared three FDI proposals worth how much on 27th November 2015?
A. 140 crore
B. 150 crore
C. 155 crore
D. 160 crore
Answer: 160 crore
Explanation: FDI proposals worth INR 160 crore have been cleared by FIPB on 27th November 2015. Proposals of ScaleneWorks People Solutions LLP, GVK Biosciences and Singapore based GMS Pharma got cleareD. They are worth Rs 160 crore.
Question: How many Advance Pricing Agreements has the Finance Ministry entered into so far with Indian subsidiaries of foreign companies in numerous segments?
A. 34
B. 33
C. 32
D. 31
Answer: 31
Explanation: Finance Ministry has indicated it has entered into 31 Advance Pricing Agreements with Indian subsidiaries of foreign companies working in various segments. CBDT has entered into 11 more APAs. CBDT has now signed 31 APAs out of which 30 are unilateral and one is bilateral. 7 of the 11 new APAs have 7 rollback provisions. The other 4 are for future 5 years.
Question: Citrix has announced which executive will be heading its team as the CMO?
A. Tim Mahoney
B. Mark Faber
C. Tim Minahan
D. None of the above
Answer: Tim Minahan
Explanation: Citrix has made the announcement that Tim Minahan is joining its executive team as the Chief Marketing Officer. He will report to interim CEO, president and executive chairman Bob Calderoni. He will be responsible for the firm’s marketing strategy. He came to Citrix from SAP and previously also worked at Ariba.
Question: Which app based cab operator has announced the appointment of advisor to Infosys CEO Rajiv Bansal as Chief Financial Officer?
A. TaxiForSure
B. Ola
C. Meru
D. Uber
Answer: Ola
Explanation: App based cab operator Ola has made the announcement that advisor to Infosys CEO Rajiv Bansal has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer. Banal resigned from Infosys and joined the startup in January 2016. Mitesh Shah, currently the CFO will strategise finance initiatives as part of Bansal’s team.
Question: Fortis Healthcare has set out to purchase which company for USD 14.9 million through a share purchase agreement?
A. Religare Health Trust Trustee Manager
B. Max Healthcare
C. Apollo Hospitals
D. None of the above
Answer: Religare Health Trust Trustee Manager
Explanation: Fortis Healthcare through step down subsidiary Stellant Capital Advisory Services has entered into Share Purchase Agreement with Relier Health Trust Trustee Manager, a Singapore based company. Fortis will acquire 100 percent stake for USD 14.9 million. The transaction is subject to approval by regulatory authorities.
Question:  Which Nagaland politician died on 26th November 2015?
A. Khekiho Chimomi
B. Thekiho Zhimomi
C. Khekiho Zhimomi
D. Thekiho Thimomi
Answer: Khekiho Zhimomi
Explanation: RS MP Khekiho Zhimomi passed away following a cardiac arrest on 26th November 2015. He was 69 at the time of his death. He had served as member of the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland 3 times and started his career as a student leader. He was also the founding member of Nagaland Students Federation.
Question: Which noted businessman passed away on 25th November 2015?
A. Lakshmi Mittal
B. Bhandari Lal Mittal
C. Banwari Lal Mittal
D. None of the above
Answer: Banwari Lal Mittal
Explanation: Noted India origin Nepal businessman Banwari Lal Mittal has passed away on 25th November 2015 at the age of 79. He is survived by a wife, two sons and one daughter. He was the founder and chairman of Shree Airlines in Nepal which is the country’s largest helicopter operator as well. He was chairman of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce as well.
Question: Constitution Day was celebrated on which date this year?
A. 26th November
B. 26th October
C. 26th September
D. 26th August
Answer: 26th November
Explanation: Sri Ashok Prasad, secretary internal security, read out the Preamble to celebrate the formation of the Indian constitution on Constitution Day. It was on this day in the year 1949 that Constitution of India was adopted by CA.
Question: Sending a brief email adds how many grams of carbon dioxide equivalent (gCO2e) in the atmosphere, according to scientists?
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
Answer: 4
Explanation: Even a short email adds around 4 grams or 0.14 ounces of gCo2e or carbon dioxide equivalent to the atmosphere. Carbon output of hitting send on 65 mails is the same as driving a moderate sized car for 1 kilometre. Adding or CCing someone else adds another 6 grams of CO2. Close to 500 billion emails buzzed around the world each day.
Question: Which Indian sportswoman has been appointed as chairperson of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme on 24th November 2015?
A. P. T. Usha
B. Anju Bobby George
C. Mary Kom
D. Tintu Lukka
Answer: Anju Bobby George
Explanation: Anju Bobby George, a former long jump world champion has been appointed as the TOPS/Target Olympic Podium Scheme chairperson on 24th November 2015. She will assume charge w.e.f December 2015. Her appointment was given approval by Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs following the resignation of BJP parliament member and BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur. She is also a member of the TOPS identification committee along with Pullela Gopichand and Rahul DraviD. She is the first Indian sportswoman to win a bronze medal at the World Athletics Championships in Paris, 2003. She is also a winner of several honours including Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award and Padma Shri.
Question: Researchers have found that chlorine/chloramines react with iodised table salt to create a new type of acid. What is this acid called?
A. Hydrochloric acid
B. Hydropoidous acid
C. Hypoiodous acid
D. None of the above
Answer: Hypoiodous acid
Explanation: As per researchers, chlorine or chloramines in tap water can react with the iodised table salt added to food, creating a kind of acid called hypoiodous aciD. The acid reacts with food and other organic material to lead to the generation of cooking iodinated disinfection byproducts (I-DBPs) - molecules that are almost completely new to researchers and now found to be toxic.
Question:  Which online quiz has been launched by Union Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and MEA minister Smt. Swaraj on 25th November 2015?
A. Bharat Ko Pehchaniye
B. Bharat Ko Samajhiye
C. Bharat Ko Janiye
D. Bharat Darshan
Answer: Bharat Ko Janiye
Explanation: MoIA and MEA Union Minister S. Swaraj has launched an online quiz program for the Indian Diaspora entitled Bharat Ko Janiye. This quiz seeks to educate them regarding India’s progress in numerous fields such as manufacturing, IT, science and technology. Quiz is open for PIOs and NRIs between 18 to 35 years of age.
Question: Which country celebrated its Independence Day on 25th November 2015?
A. Mali
B. Mauritius
C. Suriname
D. None of the above
Answer: Suriname
Explanation: Suriname celebrated its Independence day on 25th November 2015. President Pranab Mukherjee extended greetings to His Excellency, Mr. D. D. Bouterse, the president of Suriname. India and Suriname have strong bilateral cooperation in numerous fields through CARICOM and CELAC.
Question: Which famous writer, columnist and journalist passed away on 24th November 2015 at the age of 85?
A. Khushwant Singh
B. Mahip Singh
C. Kuldip Nayar
D. None of the above
Answer: Mahip Singh
Explanation: Well known Hindi writer, journalist and columnist Mahip Singh passed away on 24th November 2015 at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife, two sons and one daughter. He was known for his collection of short stories. The first collection, Subah Ke Phool was published in the late 1950s. Born in 1930 in Unnao, UP, she was editor of literary magazine Sanchetna and established the Bharatiya Lekhak Sangathan.
Question: GoI has cleared a project to skill 5 million Indians with World Bank assistance worth USD 1 billion. What is it called?
A. STEPPP
B. STEPPC
C. STEPPD
D. None of the above
Answer: STEPPP
Explanation: Government has provided clearance for skilling 5 million Indians with financial assistance of USD 1 billion to provide skill training called STEPPP or Skill Training for Employability Leveraging Public Private Partnership. The project was cleared by the Department of Economic Affairs, MSDE. It will provide skill training and also strengthen skill training infrastructure.
Question: A most sophisticated malware has been identified by leading technical analysis firm iSight Partners on November 25, 2015. What is its name?
A. CodPOS
B. ModPOS
C. TodPOS
D. None of the above
Answer: ModPOS
Explanation: The most sophisticated point of sale malware to date, ModPOS has been detected by iSight Partners that has released a technical report about this. Some of the biggest breaches to data in the past years have been the attack on Target Corp and Home Depot Inc.
Question: Which new scheme is set to be launched on December 3rd ?
A. Sugaamya Bharat Abhiyan
B. Sarvaa Shikshaa Abhiyan
C. Jeevan Jyoti Abhiyan
D. None of the above
Answer: Sugaamya Bharat Abhiyan
Explanation: Following schemes were also launched along with Sugaamya Bharat Abhiyan: DISHA (Early Intervention and School Readiness Scheme); VIKAAS (Day Care); SAMARTH (Respite Care); GHARAUNDA (Group Home for Adults); . NIRAMAYA (Health Insurance Scheme); SAHYOGI (Caregiver training scheme); GYAN PRABHA (Educational support); PRERNA (Marketing Assistance); SAMBHAV (Aids and Assisted Devices) and BADHTE KADAM (Awareness and Community Interaction)
Question: Using a groundbreaking gene editing technique, researchers inserted a DNA element into the germ line of _____________ mosquitoes that resulted in the gene preventing malaria transmission being passed on to 99.5 per cent of offspring.
A. Anopheles stephensi
B. Anopheles dephensi
C. None of the above
D. Both a and b
Answer: Anopheles stephensi
Explanation: A stephensi is a leading malaria vector in Asia.Researchers packaged anti-malaria genes with an enzyme (which can cut DNA) and a guide RNA to create a genetic "cassette" that, when injected into a mosquito embryo, targeted a highly specific spot on the germ line DNA to insert the anti-malaria antibody genes in this strain. Close to 99.5 percent of offspring exhibited this trait of blocking malaria.
Question: How many of the world’s 2.3 billion children live in areas massively exposed to climate change according to UNICEF?
A. 650 million
B. 690 million
C. 710 million
D. 810 million
Answer: 690 million
Explanation: Around 690 million of the 2.3 billion children in the world are living in areas affected by climate change, according a UNICEF report entitled “Unless We Act Now.” Close to 530 million children live in countries hardest hit by tropical storms as well as high floods. Around 160 million kids are growing in regions affected by severe drought, mostly in Africa.
Question: India elevated ties to strategic partnership with which country on 24th November 2015?
A. Thailand
B. Myanmar
C. Malaysia
D. Singapore
Answer: Singapore
Explanation: India and Singapore have elevated ties to strategic partnership level and signed bilateral agreements for increased defence cooperation, cyber security, civil aviation and shipping. PM Narendra Modi is on a two day visit to Singapore. 10 pacts signed by the two sides included: 
- Agreement on enhanced defence cooperation, which provides for defence ministers' dialogue, joint exercises between armed forces, cooperation between defence industries for identifying areas of co development and co production.
- Extension of loan of artefacts to the Asian Civilisation Museum of Singapore was also signed.
- Other MoUs include collaboration between CERT In and SingCERT and a pact between aviation authorities of India and Singapore.
Question: Which country is planning to built the world’s largest animal cloning centre?
A. Japan
B. India
C. China
D. Pakistan
Answer: China
Explanation: This centre will produce one million cattle embryos annually and rapidly improve the quality of livestock, a report said.The $31.3 million commercial cloning centre will be built in Tianjin's Tianjin Economic Technological Development Area (TEDA), a government-sponsored business development park.
Question: Which sports foundation signed an MoU with SAI on 24th November 2015?
A. Mary Kom Boxing Association
B. Pullela Gopichand Badminton Foundation
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Pullela Gopichand Badminton Foundation
Explanation: Sports Authority of India and Pullela Gopichand Badminton Foundation (PGBF) inked an agreement to form SAI Gopichand National Badminton Academy at Gachibowli, Hyderabad.The Academy is being established for optional utilization of the facilities being set up with National Sports Development Fund assistance at PGBF. SAI will also utilise the Academy for national training camps and competitions. It will select 50 players in the national wide talent search scheme.
Question: Which veteran journalist and author was honoured with the Ramnath Goenka Lifetime Achievement Award on 23 November 2015?
A. Khushwant Singh
B. Kuldip Nayar
C. Both of the above
D. Neither a nor b
Answer: Kuldip Nayar
Explanation: He was conferred with the award at the eighth edition of the event. Over 56 journalists were awarded in different categories for excellent reportage in print and broadcast mediA. Kuldip Nayar is former editor of Indian Express and he was jailed during the time of Emergency.
Question: Investment through P-Notes has risen to INR _____ lakh crore in October 2015.
A. 2.58
B. 2.59
C. 2.60
D. 2.61
Answer: 2.58
Explanation: Investment through Participatory Notes has risen to INR 2.58 lakh crore in October and investment in the capital market grew by over USD 39 billion towards the close of last month. Notes are mostly used by international HNIs as well as hedge funds and other foreign institutions enabling investors to take part in Indian market through registered FIIs. Till some years back, P-Notes used to account for 50% of total FII investment and share has fallen after disclosure norms and regulations were tightened by SEBI. P-Notes make around 15 to 20 percent of the total FII investment since 2009 in India.
Question: HRD ministry has constituted a ___ member expert panel headed by former CEC N. Gopalaswami to deliberate on issues pertaining to Sanskrit as part of attempt to promote the language.
A. 11
B. 12
C. 13
D. 14
Answer: 13
Explanation: HRD Ministry has constituted a 13 member expert panel headed by ex CEC N. Gopalaswami to mandate on issues pertaining to Sanskrit as part of aim to promote the language. Other members in the committee are Bibek Debroy, VV Bhat, Dr Ramadorai, Ramesh Bhardwaj, Ved Prakash and Samskrit Bharati.
Question: Bangladesh and India will sign an agreement for power from which thermal power project in Tripura?
A. Palatana
B. Sabroom
C. Khowai
D. Agartala
Answer: Palatana
Explanation: Bangladesh and India will sign an agreement for 100 MW power from the 726 mg MW gas fired thermal power project in Palatnana, Gomati district in TripurA. The two nations will ink an agreement on 27th November in 2015.
Question: Lanco Solar Ltd has signed an MoU with which state government for setting up a 100 MW solar cell manufacturing plant?
A. Rajasthan
B. West Bengal
C. Chhattisgarh
D. Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Chhattisgarh
Explanation: Lanco Solar Ltd, a subsidiary of LITL has signed an MoU with the Chhattisgarh government for establishing a 100 MW solar cell manufacturing plant in the state. LITL has already invested INR 1200 crore on the project which is towards establishing a poly-silicon refining and wafer plant and for setting up a 150 MW module plant.
Question: Which Indian American has been nominated as ED to ADB rank on 20th November 2015?
A. Anuskha Dandekar
B. Swati Dandekar
C. Swati Pednekar
D. None of the above
Answer: Swati Dandekar
Explanation: She has been nominated as ED to ADB with ambassadorial rank by US President Barack ObamA. She will succeed Robert M. Orr who held this position till 2010. She is the first Indian American to be elected to Iowa House of Representatives in 2003 and win a state legislature seat in the United States.
Question: Noted labour economist ________ passed away on 23rd November 2015 at the age of 74.
A. Arvind Panagriya
B. Bike Debroy
C. T. S. Papola
D. None of the above
Answer: T. S. Papola
Explanation: Noted labour economist T. S. Papola has passed away at the age of 74 on 23rd November 2015. He is a founder Member and honorary professor at ISID apart from also been chairman of Giri Institute of Development Studies, Lucknow; founder member of the Institute for Human Development (IHD), New Delhi and Chairman of the Fourth State Finance Commission of UttarakhanD. He was also an advisor with the Planning Commission and worked in consultative and advisory capacities with international organisations such as ILO, UNCTAD, UNIDO, UNICEF and UNDP.
Question: Novak Djokovic has defeated which tennis player to win the ATP Tour Finals Title for the 4th successive year?
A. Andy Murray
B. Roger Federer
C. Rafael Nadel
D. None of the above
Answer: Roger Federer
Explanation: Djokovic defeated world number 1 Roger Federer 6-3, 6-4 to win the ATP Tour Finals title following a record 4th successive year. He is the first player in the 46 year old history of the tournament to win the trophy 4 year in a row. He has also joined Pete Sampras and Ivan Lendl on 5 victories at the season ending event. Federer with 6 tour final crowns has won the tournament many more times. Djokovic scored his 82nd victory from 88 matches in the year. Federer and Djokovic have lifted the trophy 10 times between them in the past 12 years and made it to a final combined 15 times.
Question: Which Indian bank has just opened a representative office in Dhaka, capital city of Bangladesh on 22nd November 2015?
A. HDFC
B. ICICI
C. Axis
D. SBI
Answer: Axis
Explanation: Indian bank Axis bank has opened office in Dhaka to leverage business opportunities. The bank has already established its presence in Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Colombo and Shanghai with representative offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi along with a totally owned subsidiary in the UK.
Question: Pakistan and US have made efforts to restore the stalled peace process between which two parties?
A. Afghanistan government and IS
B. Afghanistan government and Taliban
C. Afghanistan government and Pakistan government
D. None of the above
Answer: Afghanistan government and Taliban
Explanation: Pakistan and the US have made efforts to start the stalled peace process between Afghanistan and Taliban insurgents after a second round of talks were earlier cancelleD. The understanding was reached during the November trip of Pakistan Army General Raheel Sharif to Washington. Pakistan is concerned about the security establishment in Afghanistan thwarting the peace process.
Question: Which ace shuttler won the third consecutive Super Series title at Hong Kong Open men’s singles on 22nd November 2015?
A. Lee Chong Wei
B. Tian Houwei
C. Xi Chong Wei
D. None of the above
Answer: Lee Chong Wei
Explanation: Ex world number 1 champion Lee Chong Wei has won his 3rd consecutive Super Series title at Hong Kong Open on 22nd November 2015. The Malaysian player beat China’s world number 10 Tian Houwei 21-16, 21-15 to take the crown after a marathon final rally. Lian is back to the game after back to back titles in China and France.
Question: Which noted poet returned his Padma Shri to protest moral asymmetry in the nation on 22nd November 2015?
A. Jayantha Mahapatra
B. Jayanta Mahapatra
C. Prabhash Mahapatra
D. None of the above
Answer: Jayanta Mahapatra
Explanation: Noted poet J. Mahapatra became the first Odia litterateur to return the Padma Shri to protest against rising “moral asymmetry” in the nation. The 88 year old poet had received the award in the year 2009 for his contributions to literature. Mahapatra is known for his contributions to Indian English poetry with 27 books to his credit, 7 being in Odia and the rest in English.
Question: 2 time world champion Carolina Marin from Spain took her _____ title of the year at Hong Kong Open on 22nd November 2015.
A. Fourth
B. Fifth
C. Sixth
D. Seventh
Answer: Sixth
Explanation: Two time world champion Carolina Marin of Spain got her 6th title of the year at Hong Kong Open on 22nd November 2015 beating Nozomi Okuhara from Japan in a tightly contested three sets. the final lasted for 84 minutes making it the longest match in the women’s singles during this tournament. Marin won the game 21-17, 18-21 and 22-20. Okuhara took her first title at Super Series in September.
Question: Which former light heavyweight champion passed away on 21st November 2015?
A. Joe Frazier
B. Muhammad Ali
C. Bob Foster
D. None of the above
Answer: Bob Foster
Explanation: Bob Foster, former light heavyweight champion who combated Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali and became a sheriff’s deputy died at the age of 77 on 21st November 2015. Foster was the third greatest light heavyweight champion and had 14 title defences before he retired in the 1970s. He was indicted into International Boxing Hall of Fame’s first class in 1990. He also won the title of the Boxing Writer’s Association of America Fighter of the year in 1968.
Question: Leaders of the __ APEC summit on 19th November 2015 issued the Leaders Declaration at the end of the conclusion of summit in Manila, Philippines.
A. 22nd
B. 23rd
C. 24th
D. 25th
Answer: 23rd
Explanation: This declaration is entitled Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World: A Vision for an Asia-Pacific Community. This declaration outlines the following commitments for APEC members to do the following:
- Build inclusive economies;
- Foster micro, small and medium enterprises’ participation in regional and global markets;
- Build sustainable and resilient communities;
- Invest in human capital development; and
- Enhance the regional economic integration agenda.
Question: Home furnishings e-commerce company Home Lane dot com has hired whom as the Chief Product Officer?
A. Jayanth Mysore
B. Jayanth Gupta
C. Jayanth Arora
D. None of the above
Answer: Jayanth Mysore
Explanation: Home furnishings retailer Home Lane dot com has hired Google executive J. Mysore as its Chief Product Officer. Mysore played a key role in developing of Google Checkout, Google Maps and Google Analytics. He is a business graduate from Kellogg School of Management and adviser to many Fortune 500 firms.
Question: Which senior Pakistan political leader passed away on 21st November 2015?
A. Nawaz Sharif
B. Pervez Musharraf
C. Imran Khan
D. Makhdoom Amin Fahim
Answer: Makhdoom Amin Fahim
Explanation: Well known Pakistani political leader and senior PPP leader as well s former commerce minister M.A. Fahim passed away on 21st November 2015 at the age of 76 from blood cancer. He hailed from the Southern Sindh province and turned down several offers for top posts from different governments. Fahim was also a spiritual leader of a Sufi sect called Marwari Jamaat in Hala.
Question: Scientists have discovered a new _____ which can effectively deliver anti cancerous agents directly into the tumour and destroy it.
A. Bio-injection
B. Bio-gel
C. Bio-synthesiser
D. None of the above
Answer: Bio-gel
Explanation: Scientists have developed a new injectable bio-gel which can deliver anti cancerous agents directly into the tumour and eliminate them. Technology developed by University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre scientists will revolutionise treatment for different forms of cancer. Bio-gel is a liquid at room temperature and a gel at human body temperature. This bio-gel is compatible with anti-cancer immune cells.
Question: Which former president died on 22nd November 2015 at the age of 87?
A. George Bush
B. Kim Young-tam
C. Kim Young-sam
D. Bill Clinton
Answer: Kim Young-sam
Explanation: Ex president of South Korea, Kim Young-sam who ended decades of military rule in South Korea and accepted a global bailout during the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, has passed away at the age of 87 on 22nd November. He passed away following acute heart failure. He is an important figure in South Korea’s pro-democracy movement and went against military dictators for years. He also laid the foundation for peaceful power transfer in the country. His presidency lasted from 1993 to 1998. He also launched a popular anti-corruption campaign.
Question: Which forum is being organised by National Water Mission, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and the Environment Directorate-General of the European Commission on November 23-24, 2015 at New Delhi to discuss key issues in water resources management in India as well as the experiences of implementation of European Water Policy?
A. Indo EU Water Forum
B. India European Water Forum
C. Indo European Water Forum
D. None of the above
Answer: Indo European Water Forum
Explanation: The forum will be attended by diplomats, government officers, world bank and UNDP officials an the DG of ED and DG of EC. The water challenges are complex and include allocation, quality, quantity and management issues. Currently, the agricultural sector is the largest user of water in India.
Question: The World Fisheries Day 2015 was celebrated on which day?
A. 19th November
B. 20th November
C. 21st November
D. 22nd November
Answer: 21st November
Explanation: The ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare proposed the formulation of an umbrella scheme ‘Blue Revolution: Integrated Development and Management of Fisheries’ with an outlay of INR 3000 crore covering inland fisheries, aquaculture, marine fisheries including deep sea fishing, mari-culture and all activities undertaken by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) towards realising “Blue Revolution”.
Question: Senior JDU leader Nitish Kumar has been sworn as Bihar CM for _____ time on November 20, 2015.
A. Fourth
B. Third
C. Fifth
D. Second
Answer: Fifth
Explanation: Senior JDU leader Nitish Kumar has been sworn in as Bihar CM for the fifth time on November 20, 2015. The swearing in ceremony was held at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan. Governor Ramnath Kovind administered the oath of office and secrecy to the CM. RJD president Lalu Yadav’s sons MLAs Tejaswi Prasad Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav were also sworn in. JDU, RJD and INC emerged as the winner of the recent Bihar elections through their winning Mahagatbandhan coalition.
Question: Polar bear populations will fall by more than __ percent by mid century as the Arctic sea ice is being thawed by global warming.
A. 15
B. 20
C. 30
D. 35
Answer: 30
Explanation: An IUCN report has estimated that between 22,000 and 31,000 polar bears in Arctic are increasingly vulnerable to extinction as their habitat shrinks. Polar bear population will lower by more than 30% by mid century following the thawing of Arctic sea ice due to global warming. Climate change will threaten polar bear survival in the future as well. This study was based on updated counts and new projections of sea ice following a 2008 review.
Question: Exports destinations are shifting towards which two nations overtaking traditional markets like US and EU?
A. Asia
B. Africa
C. Australia
D. Both a and b
Answer: Both a and b
Explanation: PHDCCI has found that Asia and Africa are fast emerging as export destinations, beating traditional markets like US and EU. Share of advanced economies in Indian exports has fallen from 44% in 2004-2005 to 37% in 2014-2015. Share of developing nations in Asia to the country’s exports has risen from 48% in 2004-2005 to 50% in 2014-2015. India’s exports product composition to different regions is concentrated in top 10 commodities of exports. India also needs to enhance manufacturing sector productivity according to the report.
Question: The __ edition of International Film Festival of India, IFFI 2015 has recently opened in Goa.
A. 45th
B. 46th
C. 47th
D. 48th
Answer: 46th
Explanation: The 46th edition of the International Film Festival of India opened with UK film “The Man Who Knew Infinity” at Panjim, GoA. The Man Who Knew Infinity is the true story of friendship that forever changed mathematics between Ramanujan and G.H. Hardy. The Centenary award was also conferred on music composer IlaiyaraajA. Indian Centenary Personality of the Year award consists of a trophy, a cash component of INR 10 lakh and a citation.
Question: Which publication has been released at the opening of IFFI 2015 on 20th November 2015?
A. Legends of Indian Golden Screen
B. Legends of Indian Silver Screen
C. Silver Screen Legends of Bollywood
D. None of the above
Answer: Legends of Indian Silver Screen
Explanation: The book entitled “ Legends of Indian Silver Screen” brought out by Ministry of I&B’s Publications Division has been released by FM Arun Jaitley. This elegantly designed book is a compilation of essays on 23 luminaries who have been awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award from 1992-2014 including Dilip Kumar, Gulzar, K. Balachander, Sivaji Ganesan, Bhupen Hazarika, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Majrooh Sultanpuri, and Asha Bhosle. Eminent writers plus film critics such as Saibal Chatterjee, Rachel Dwyer, Jai Arjun Singh have contributed to this book.
Question: Which ex-governor died on 19th November 2015 at the age of 94?
A. Ram Gopal Trivedi
B. Ram Krishna Trivedi
C. Ramnath Kovind
D. None of the above
Answer: Ram Krishna Trivedi
Explanation: Ex Gujarat governor Ram Krishna Trivedi passed away on 19th November 2015 at the age of 94. He was the first CEC to introduce voter ID cards in Indian elections. He also served as Gujarat governor from 1986 to 1990. Trivedi was a former bureaucrat who had also held the post of CVC.
Question: Which books have been launched on R. Dadi Janaki, the 100 year old head of Brahma Kumaris?
A. Prem aur Shanti ka Marg
B. I know How to Live, I know How to Die
C. Dadi Janaki: A Century of Service
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Minister of State for Culture and Tourism released 3 books on Rajyogini Dadi Janaki, the 100 year old head of BK to celebrate her centenary celebrations. The books entitled “Prem aur Shanti ka Marg” authored by Dadi Janaki ; “I know How to Live, I know How to Die” authored by Neville Hodgkinson ; and “Dadi Janaki : A Century of Service” written by Liz Hodgkinson were launched by him.
Question: The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research has been established in which part of Rajasthan?
A. Alwar
B. Jaipur
C. Jodhpur
D. Jhalawar
Answer: Jhalawar
Explanation: National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research has been launched in Jhalawar, Rajasthan. GoI will invest INR 500 crore in this international level institute which will be established in two years. INR 100 crore will also be invested in CIPET Jaipur for upgradation.
Question: National Virtual Academy for Indian Agriculture has launched online course on diseases of horticultural crops and their management in collaboration with which educational body?
A. ICRISAT
B. IIT-Bombay
C. Both a and b
D. Neither a nor b
Answer: Both a and b
Explanation: Free online course on agriculture and diseases of horticultural crops and their management has been launched in collaboration with ICRISAT Hyderabad and IIT-Bombay. 2 month course will commence on November 30 and finish on January 29, 2016. It is an initiative by a team of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in agriculture and educators from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and its partners together with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay.
Question: New vaccine for which disease has been found to be effective on 19th November 2015?
A. Ebola
B. Malaria
C. Typhoid
D. Tetanus
Answer: Ebola
Explanation: A new clinical trial of an Ebola vaccine has been found to stimulate strong immune system responses in adults in West Africa, US and Mali. The first testing of this vaccine has yielded positive results in terms of finding out dose to be used in subsequent clinical trials and for large-scale manufacture of the vaccine. As per researchers from WHO, if larger trials yield positive impact, this vaccine will attain regulatory approval to prevent future outbreaks of the disease.
Question: Infosys has completed acquisition of which US based oil and gas consulting firm?
A. ONGC
B. Shell
C. Noah Consulting
D. None of the above
Answer: Noah Consulting
Explanation: Country’s second largest software services company Infosys has completed acquisition of US based oil and gas consulting firm Noah Consulting. The acquisition of Noah Consulting had been announced last month for USD 70 million. With this acquisition, Infosys will offer end to end data management services to international oil and gas firms.
Question: Which online travel company has appointed Deepak Tuli as senior VP growth business on 19th November 2015?
A. Yatra
B. MakeMyTrip
C. Goibibo
D. None of the above
Answer: MakeMyTrip
Explanation: MakeMyTrip has appointed Deepak Tuli, former co-founder and COO at Goibibo as senior VP, growth business. He will implement and build strategies for new business lines in his new role. He has a deep understanding of e-commerce ecosystems. Tuli has 10 years of experience in the field and has also worked with Yatra.
Question: Tennis champion __________ has been awarded an honorary doctorate by University of East London on 19th November, 2015.
A. Vijay Amritraj
B. Ashok Amritraj
C. Leander Paes
D. Mahesh Bhupathi
Answer: Ashok Amritraj
Explanation: Tennis champion and Hollywood filmmaker Ashok Amritraj has been conferred an honorary doctorate by University of East London for promoting talented moviemakers. He has made 100 film generating USD 2 billion in worldwide revenues. He has directed numerous Hollywood stars including Bruce Willis, Sandra Bullock and Jennifer Anniston. His company, Hyde Park Entertainment Group offers an east-west connect in the world of filmmaking.
Question: Pay Commission has submitted its 7th Pay Commission report. Who is heading this commission?
A. Justice A.P. Shah
B. Justice M.B. Shah
C. Justice Mathur
D. Justice Thakur
Answer: Justice Mathur
Explanation: The Pay Commission headed by Justice Mathur submitted the 7th Pay Commission report to FM Arun Jaitley. The recommendations of the report will be implemented from January, 2016. The report recommends a 23.55 percent hike in allowance, pensions and pays. The hike has the following breakup: 16% increase in pay, 24% increase in pension and 63% increase in allowances. Report recommends a minimum basic pay for central government staff of INR 18,000 per month with maximum pay of INR 2.25 lakh per month. The government has also done away with grade pay and pay bands. 7th Pay Commission recommendations would have 0.65 percent impact on GDP. The Commission will impact 47 lakh serving government employees and INR 1.02 lakh crore in terms of monetary impact. Maximum pay is INR 2,25,000 per month for apex scale and INR 2,50,000 per month for Cabinet Secretaries and others. Ceiling of gratuity was enhanced to INR 20 lakh with ceiling on gratuity to be increased by 25%. DA will rise by 50 percent and 52 allowances will be abolished.
Question: Agro chemicals sector in the country will touch USD ____ billion by 2018-2019 with 60% of the contribution coming from exports, according to a report by TATA Strategic Management Group.
A. 7.3
B. 7.4
C. 7.5
D. 7.6
Answer: 7.5
Explanation: Agro-chemicals sector in the nation will touch USD 7.5 billion by 2018-2019 with majority (60%) of the contribution coming from exports, according to a TATA Strategic Management Group report. Indian crop protection industry is estimated at USD 4.25 billion in 2014 and grow at CAGR of 12% to reach USD 7.5 billion by FY19. Report also indicates that use of original crop protection chemicals can increase crop productivity by as much as 25 to 50 percent.
Question: GoI has announced 3 percent interest subsidy scheme for exporters to boost overseas shipping. What is the name of the scheme?
A. Interest Subvention Scheme on Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit
B. Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit
C. Interest Management Scheme on Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit
D. None of the above
Answer: Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit
Explanation: GoI has announced 3 percent interest subsidy scheme for exporters which will have a financial implication of about Rs 2,700 crore, concerned over declining exports. Financial implication of the scheme will be in the range of INR 2500 to 2700 crore. Rate of interest equalisation will be 3%. This will be evaluated after 3 years. Actual implication will depend on level of exports. Funds worth around INR 1625 crore in the non plan head of account are available under Demand for Grants for 2015-2016. Scheme will be available to exports of MSME and as many as 416 tariff lines.
Question: Which judge will take over as the next CJI on 3rd December 2015?
A. H. L. Dattu
B. A. P Shah
C. T. S. Thakur
D. None of the above
Answer: T. S. Thakur
Explanation: Senior-most judge of the Supreme Court Justice T S Thakur was appointed the next Chief Justice of India and will take over w.e.f from December 3. President has appointed Justice Thakur as the next CJI with effect from December 3. Born on January 4, 1952, he will retire in January 2017. Justice Thakur was designated as a senior advocate in 1990. He took over as CJ of Punjab and Haryana HC in 2008.
Question: Which technology solutions provider has signed an agreement to acquire Bengaluru-headquartered Ecron Acunova (EA), a leading clinical research organisation founded by D. A Prasanna, for INR 115 crore?
A. MAKE Solutions
B. TAKE Solutions
C. SAKE Solutions
D. None of the above
Answer: TAKE Solutions
Explanation: The deal will strengthen Chennai-headquartered TAKE’s position as a fully integrated, differentiated life sciences services provider to large and small global pharmaceutical companies. It will also help expand the addressable market for TAKE and significantly enhance presence in Europe and the Nordic nations.
Question: Senior diplomat ___________ has been appointed as Ambassador to China.
A. Vijay Keshav Gokhale
B. Ashok Kantha
C. Syed Akbaruddin
D. Vikas Swarup
Answer: Vijay Keshav Gokhale
Explanation: Currently the country’s Ambassador to Germany, he will be replacing Ashok Kantha whose term will end in early January. He is a 1981 batch IFS officer. He will replace Kantha as envoy to China for a 2 year term.
Question: Which Indian political leader was designated as the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Champion for the Asia Region by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) on 17th November?
A. K. Rijiju
B. R. Singh
C. A. Shah
D. P. Javadekar
Answer: K. Rijiju
Explanation: He became the first Indian to be conferred with this honour.The honour was conferred by Margarete Wahlstrom, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General during meeting for Sendai Framework for DRR in Asia.
Question: Stan Chartered Bank has recently appointed whom as the CEO on 17th November 2015?
A. Sunil Kaushal
B. Zarin Daruwala
C. Ajay Kanwal
D. None of the above
Answer: Zarin Daruwala
Explanation: Zarin Daruwala was on 17th November 2015 appointed as CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, India succeeding Sunil Kaushal, who was appointed as Regional CEO for Africa and West AsiA. She will report directly to Ajay Kanwal, Regional Chief Executive Officer of ASEAN & South AsiA. She is currently a president in the bank and has 25 years of experience in the industry.
Question: Which popular hotel brand is all set to acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide to become world’s largest hotel company?
A. Hilton
B. Hyatt
C. Marriott
D. None of the above
Answer: Marriott
Explanation: With this acquisition, the combined entity will replace TATA Sons Taj Group of Hotels as the largest hotel chain in terms of number of rooms. All cash acquisition is valued at USD 12.2 billion and the combined company will own a franchise with 5500 hotels and 1.1 million rooms worldwide.
Question: India tops in new mobile connections, according to an Ericsson Mobility report with net addition of how many million customers in July to September 2015?
A. 12
B. 13
C. 14
D. 15
Answer: 13
Explanation: India has added over 13 million consumers in July to September 2015, as per an Ericsson Mobility report. Every second, a mobile connection gets activated in IndiA. Global mobile subscriptions are rising by 5% Y-O-Y and Indian markets grew the most followed by China, the US, Myanmar and NigeriA. The report also found that total number of mobile subscriptions from July to September 2015 stood at 7.3 billion with 87 million new subscriptions. By 2016, the report predicts that smart phone usage will exceed mobile usage.
Question: Which former RAW Chief has passed away on 17th November 2015?
A. Rameshwarnath Kao
B. K. Shankaran Nair
C. Ashok Gupta
D. None of the above
Answer: K. Shankaran Nair
Explanation: The former chief of Research and Analysis Wing, K. Shankaran Nair from Kerala’s Ottapalam village passed away on November 17 2015. He is credited with the success of the 1971 Bangladesh war and played a crucial role in restructuring the RAW in the 1980s. He wrote his memoir “Inside IB and RAW: The rolling stone that gathered moss” in 2008 and succeeded Kao as RAW chief in the 1970s.
Question: Which BJP MLA died of heart failure on November 17, 2015?
A. Gurupadappa Tagamarapalli
B. Gurupadappa Nagamarapalli
C. Gurupadappa Sagamarapalli
D. Gurupadappa Kagamarapalli
Answer: Gurupadappa Nagamarapalli
Explanation: The BJP MLA from Bidar, Karnataka passed away following a heart failure at the age of 74. He had served as a Minister in three Cabinets and was a legislator for six terms from Aurad and Bidar. Nagamarapalli is well known as the leader in the cooperative sector having spearheaded the 92-year-old District Central Cooperative Bank in its most crucial period starting from 1985. He also founded the Naranja Sahakari Sakkare Karakhane cooperative sugar factory in 2000.
Question: Which city’s Mayor was recently killed by unidentified assailants on November 17th 2015?
A. Mysuru
B. Bengaluru
C. Chittoor
D. None of the above
Answer: Chittoor
Explanation: Chittoor’s Mayor K. Anuradha was killed and her husband seriously injured in an attack on them by unidentified assailants on November 17 2015. Mohan, her husband is a senior TDP leader and prime accused in the attempt to murder a former Chittoor MLA CK Babu. Assailants are believed to be linked to Babu.
Question: Which well known religious leader passed away on 17th November 2015?
A. Ashok Singhal
B. Mohan Bhagwat
C. Pravin Togadia
D. None of the above
Answer: Ashok Singhal
Explanation: Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Ashok Singhal has passed away on November 17th, 2015 following multiple organ dysfunction and sepsis. He has been diagnosed with right lower lobe pneumonia, carbon-dioxide retention, sepsis and drowsiness. He has been suffering from respiratory problems for over a month.
Question: Apollo Tyres has acquired which German based tyre firm:
A. MRF
B. Reifencom
C. Cooper Tires
D. Continental AG
Answer: Reifencom
Explanation: Apollo Tyres has acquired German based tyre distributor Reifencom GmbH for Euro 45.6 million (around INR 301 crore). This is one of the largest tyre distributors in the country and it has online presence in 5 other nations-France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Denmark plus it operates 37 stores and service centres across Germany. This acquisition is a strategic fit for Apollo Tyres given its growing European business.
Question: Country’s food industry is going to grow by how much in 2018 as per IIM-C and Academic Foundation report?
A. 11%
B. 12%
C. 13%
D. 14%
Answer: 11%
Explanation: The food industry of the country is pegged to grow 11% annually to reach INR 4 lakh crore by 2018, pas per the research report. The industry is current valued at USD 39.71 billion, according to a joint report by IIM-C and Academic Foundation. Food and grocery are a considerable part of India’s consumption accounting for 31% of the consumption basket. India’s retail market is expected to grow by USD 865 billion by 2023 currently valued at USD 490 billion.
Question: Government has declared which group as a terrorist organisation under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act 1967?
A. NSCN-M
B. NSCN-IM
C. NSCN-K
D. None of the above
Answer: NSCN-K
Explanation: Government has declared the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang), NSCN (K), all its formations and front organisations as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. A Gazette Notification was issued on November 6th 2015 to this effect. NSCN-K has resorted to terrorism by eliminating civilians and security forces.
Question: Which day has been marked as National Press Day?
A. 14th November
B. 15th November
C. 16th November
D. 17th November
Answer: 16th November
Explanation: National Press Day is celebrated on November 16 since 1966 when the Press Council of India started functioning as a statutory, autonomous, quasi judicial body. The first newspaper in India was ‘Hickey’s Gazette’ or ‘Bengal Gazette’ started on January 29, 1780 by an Irishman, James Augustus Hickey. TOI started its career as The Bombay Times and Journal of Commerce.
Question: Exports during October 2015 were valued at USD 21352.79 million (INR 138916.98 crore) which was ___ per cent lower in Dollar terms (12.53 per cent lower in Rupee terms) than the level of USD 25891.39 million (INR 158822.95 crore) during October, 2014
A. 17.23%
B. 17.33%
C. 17.53%
D. 17.63%
Answer: 17.53%
Explanation: Cumulative value of exports for the period April-October 2015-16 was USD 154292.24 million (INR 992503.57 crore) as against US$ 187288.74 million (INR 1130539.38 crore) registering a negative growth of 17.62 per cent in Dollar terms and 12.21 per cent in Rupee terms over 2014. .Imports during October, 2015 were valued at USD 31120.06 million (INR 202460.88 crore) which was 21.15 per cent lower in Dollar terms and 16.38 per cent lower in Rupee terms over the level of imports valued at USD 39468.76 million (INR 242109.24 crore) in October, 2014.
Question: Which Aussie cricketer announced his decision to retire before the Perth Test fifth Match against New Zealand?
A. Shane Warne
B. Steve Waugh
C. Michael Clarke
D. Mitchell Johnson
Answer: Mitchell Johnson
Explanation: Australian cricketer Mitchell Johnson announced his retirement from test cricket. He will retire as Australia’s fourth-highest Test wicket taker (311), behind only Shane Warne (708), Glenn McGrath (563) and Dennis Lillee (355).He is ranked 25th among Test wicket-takers from all nations. He was identified as a talented cricketer by Dennis Lillee.
Question: Which well known Bollywood actor has died on 15th November 2015 from age related ailments?
A. Dilip Kumar
B. Dharmendra
C. Saeed Jaffrey
D. Raj Babbar
Answer: Saeed Jaffrey
Explanation: Senior Bollywood actor Saeed Jaffrey has passed away on 15th November 2015 from age related ailments at the age of 86. He has acted in several movies including Gandhi, A Passage to India, My Beautiful Laundrette and more. He also appeared in the critically acclaimed Satyajit Ray directed Shatranj Ke Khiladi. He was the first Indian to receive an OBE and has also attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and went to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship.
Question: Who has been appointed as the next Permanent Representative of India to the UN on 16th November 2015?
A. Asoke Kumar Mukerji
B. Syed Akbaruddin
C. Vikram Swarup
D. Vikas Swarup
Answer: Syed Akbaruddin
Explanation: Akbaruddin has been appointed as the next Permanent Representative of India to the UN at NY replacing Asoke Kumar Mukerji who assumed the office in April 2013. He will head the Indian diplomatic mission to the UN and enunciating on the country’s stand in the global forum. He is a 1985 batch IFS officer serving as Additional Secretary in MEA currently. He also served as MEA spokesperson and was Chief Coordinator of successful India Africa Foreign Summit held in New Delhi from 26 October to 29 October 2015. Other diplomats who have been permanent reps of India to UN include Nirupam Sen, Hardeep Singh Puri and Brajesh C Mishra.
Question: Scientists have successfully breached which barrier to effectively deliver cancer fighting drugs into the patient’s brain?
A. Blood brain barrier
B. Brain extracellular barrier
C. Blood cell barrier
D. None of the above
Answer: Blood brain barrier
Explanation: Scientists have successfully breached the blood brain barrier in a non invasive manner to deliver cancer fighting drugs into the patient’s brain. Every person has a protective blood barrier lining blood vessels in the brain to restrict the passage of massive toxic substances from the bloodstream to the brain. Scientists can open the barrier in the patient’s brain to deliver chemotherapy directly to the brain tumour. MRI-guided focused low-intensity ultrasound waves were used to target blood vessels in the blood-brain barrierBBB) area near the tumour. Waves repeatedly compress and expand the micro-bubbles, loosening tight junctions of the cells comprising the BBB. Following the breach of the barrier, the chemotherapy flowed through and deposited into the targeted regions.
Question: Exoplanet located __ light years away has reached a value of 8690 km per hour around 20 times faster than that recorded on earth.
A. 62
B. 63
C. 64
D. 65
Answer: 63
Explanation: An exoplanet located 63 light years away has winds which have reached a velocity of 8690 km per hour which is 20 times faster than that recorded on Earth, as per the first ever weather map of this planet. Weather system on the planet outside Earth’s solar system has been measured and mappeD. Wind speed recorded is 7 times the speed of sounD. On exoplanet HD 189733b, researchers measured the velocities on the two sides and found a strong wind moving at over 8,690kmph blowing from its dayside to its night side. The wind velocity was measured through high resolution spectroscopy of the Sodium absorption featured in its atmosphere.
Question: Trains will soon run on ______ energy as per the establishment of a new firm by IRCTC called Railway Energy Management Company/REMC
A. Wind
B. Solar
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Both of the above
Explanation: Trains in India are all set to run on wind and solar energy. Railways has invested INR 160 crore to establish a wind power project in Dangri, Fatehgarh’s Jaisalmer district. Union rail ministry is set to lower diesel consumption and fuel expenses by running engines and trains on non conventional sources of energy. Within the next 5 years, rail ministry will set up a 1000 MW solar power project and numerous windmill units. For this purpose, IRCTC has set up the REMC or Railway Energy Management Company for this purpose.
Question: India has signed an agreement to be the first country to buy uranium from which country without signing NPT?
A. US
B. UK
C. Australia
D. Spain
Answer: Australia
Explanation: India has announced that procedures for civil nuclear agreement with Australia for supplying uranium from it had been completed following a meeting between PM Modi and counterpart Malcolm Turnbull on G-20 summit sidelines on 15th November 2015. Australia has close to one third of the recoverable uranium resources in the world and exports close to 7000 tonnes of it per year. India will now be the first nation to purchase uranium from Australia without signing the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty.
Question: India and which nation have signed the SOP to operationalise agreement on coastal shipping framed in June 2015?
A. Bangladesh
B. Sri Lanka
C. Afghanistan
D. Nepal
Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: The Standard Operating Procedure has been signed between India and Bangladesh for operationalising the coastal shipping agreement between the two nations formed in June 2015. SOP will pave the way to promote coastal shipping between India and its neighbour and facilitate bilateral trade between the two countries by bringing down the cost of transportation of EXIM cargo. The SOP includes provisions which stipulate that India and Bangladesh shall render same treatment to the other country's vessels as it would have done to its national vessels used in international sea transportation. The two sides have also formed an agreement regarding the use of vessels of River Sea Vessel (RSV) category for Indo-Bangladesh coastal shipping.
Question: Which state celebrated its statehood day on 15th November 2015?
A. Uttarakhand
B. Bihar
C. Chattisgarh
D. Jharkhand
Answer: Jharkhand
Explanation: PM Narendra Modi wished people of Jharkhand on their Statehood Day i.e 15th November 2015.Jharkhand was formed by the CAA in the year 2000 dividing Bihar into two states. Jharkhand has an area of 79,710 square km and borders states such as Odisha, Chattisgarh and WB.
Question: What was the venue of the 19th International Children’s Film Festival of India held on 14th November 2015?
A. Mumbai
B. Kolkata
C. Chennai
D. Hyderabad
Answer: Hyderabad
Explanation: The festival was held at Shilpa Kala Vedika in Hyderabad on Saturday. CFSI was started soon after independence to harness medium of cinema for children. The festival was graced by the presence of noted personalities from the film world, Tabu, Kareena Kapoor and Karishma Kapoor. Sand art by Hari Krishna and a illuminati on the Digital India initiative were also hosted during the festival.
Question: World Pneumonia Day was observed on which day?
A. 10th November
B. 11th November
C. 12th November
D. 13th November
Answer: 12th November
Explanation: World Pneumonia Day was observed on 12th November 2015 across the globe. The theme for this year was Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia Now. For marking this occasion, special programmes were held to raise awareness of pneumonia and promote prevention as well as treatment for combating this disease. A special Pneumonia Innovations Summit was organised by WHO in NY as well. Pneumonia is currently the biggest killer of children under 5 accounting for 16% of the deaths. Internationally, around 9 lakh children will die from this disease in 2015.
Question: Children’s Day was observed on which day in 2015?
A. 13th November
B. 14th November
C. 15th November
D. 16th November
Answer: 14th November
Explanation: Children’s Day was observed on 14th November 2015 across the nation. For marking this occasion, Ministry of WCD has conducted programmes for child development. President of India Pranab Mukherjee has also presented National Child Awards for recognising the achievements of children and the services of persons and institutions working for child welfare. 19th edition of the biennial International Children’s film festival of India known as The Golden Elephant has also been inaugurated in Hyderabad.
Question: Noted Dalit writer Devanooru Mahadeva has announced his decision to return which award to protest against rising communal intolerance on 14th November 2015?
A. Padma Shri
B. Padma Bhushan
C. Sahitya Akademi
D. Both a and c
Answer: Both a and c
Explanation: Dalit writer Devanooru Mahadeva has joined writers and activists in returning awards to register protest against rising intolerance in IndiA. The decision has been made to return Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi awarD. The writer was honoured with the former award in 2011 and the Sahitya Akademi award for the novella “Kusumabale” in the 1990s. The Mysuru based writer has hit out against rising intolerance in India.
Question: Chinese archaeologists have unearthed the portrait of ancient philosopher Confucius from ______ year old tomb.
A. 3000
B. 2000
C. 1500
D. 1000
Answer: 2000
Explanation: Chinese archaeologists have unearthed a portrait of ancient philosopher Confucius from a 2000 year old tomB. After the broken lacquer screen found in the tomb’s main chamber, one of two portraits believed to be of Confucius was also discovereD. The restored screen is 50-60 cm wide and 70-80 cm tall. Confucius has been regarded as China’s cultural symbol and venerated as a great sage in ancient China.
Question: Study by IIT-M has shown proportions of byproducts such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag can ________ structures like building and bridges.
A. Strengthen
B. Weaken
C. Solidify
D. Liquify
Answer: Strengthen
Explanation: A series of tests conducted on various kinds of concrete by the civil engineering department, IIT-M has found that proportion of byproducts such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag added to concrete mix can reinforce structures and make them more durable. The researchers have recommended that cement used for durable construction should be replaced with or contain 15% fly ash/30% slag along with low water content use in the concrete. Thermal power plants in the nation generate 200 million tonnes of fly ash within a year, yet only 30 million tonnes have been utilised.
Question: CEAT has inked a 3 year endorsement deal with which cricketer on November 14, 2015?
A. Rohit Sharma
B. Ajinkya Rahane
C. Viral Kohli
D. None of the above
Answer: Rohit Sharma
Explanation: Tyre maker CEAT has inked a three year bat endorsement deal with cricketer Rohit SharmA. Rohit is the first player to score consecutive centuries in history ODIs. His bat will now display the CEAT insigniA. CEAT has also announced a partnership with Suresh Raina for the bat association. It has also partnered with the IPL for a strategic time out segment.
Question: How many new species of fauna has the ZSI identified in the past 5 years?
A. 775
B. 776
C. 778
D. 779
Answer: 778
Explanation: Zoological Survey of India has found 778 new species of fauna in the past 5 years. This estimate is based on annual surveys conducted by ZSI in the protected areas such as deserts, forests, wetlands and coral reefs in the nation. ZSI has identified greater than 5,000 new fauna species in the scientific world to date. Some of the most important discoveries were in 2014 whereby 24 frog species, 23 fish species and 2 reptile species were identifieD. Scientists also found some rare lizard species that year. Western Ghats is one of the 34 biodiversity hotspots where scientists found 248 new species in 2013; this includes 43 species of vertebrate and 162 species of invertebrates.
Question: India has around ____ percent of the consumers who spend the least amount of time online even as 56% of them indicate it is easier to find products and services online than through family and friends, a study commissioned by Swedish telecom equipment maker Ericsson has found.
A. 51%
B. 50%
C. 52%
D. 53%
Answer: 52%
Explanation: India has around 52% of the customers that spend the least amount of time online even as 56% of them have found it is easier to locate products and services online, an Ericsson survey has founD. A study by Ericsson Consumer Lab has found 52% of Indians are currently in the non-networked group and only 1 in 5 of the group uses the internet. The non-networked companies comprise 18% of the consumers.
Question: Ukrainian lawmakers have approved a bill banning discrimination of ___________.
A. Women
B. Senior persons
C. Handicapped
D. Homosexual
Answer: Homosexual
Explanation: The key legislation is for paving the way for visa free travel between the EU and Ukraine. The 450 seater parliament approved the bill through 234 votes in favour. Bill banning discrimination of homosexuals in the workplace had previously been rejected multiple times.
Question: Scientists have discovered a new species of duck billed dinosaur in the US that roamed the earth how many million years ago?
A. 77
B. 79
C. 78
D. 80
Answer: 79
Explanation: Scientists have discovered the fossils of a new species of duck billed dinosaur in the US which existed on earth around 79 million years ago. Dinosaur species was uncovered by Montana State University researchers. This shows an evolutionary transition from the earlier duck billed species to the descendants of the group. This dinosaur species uncovered the gap between an ancient form with no crest and descendants who subsequently bore large crests. Elizabeth Freedman Fowler and MSU paleontologist Jack Horner named the dinosaur Probrachylophosaurus bergei and indicated that it was the missing link between a preceding species, Acristavus, which lived about 81 million years ago, and form Brachylophosaurus, which lived about 77.5 million years ago.
Question: CarTrade has acquired which rival online automobile classifieds in a full cash deal on 13th November 2015?
A. CarDekho
B. Quikr
C. Olx
D. CarWale
Answer: CarWale
Explanation: In a move towards consolidation in the online automobiles classified segment, CarTrade has acquired rival company CarWale in a complete cash deal. The financial details of the merger have not been discloseD. German media major Axel Springer has exited the acquired firm, selling entire shareholding to CarTrade. Rival CarDekho has acquired Zigwheels, an auto portal owned by Times Group. The two companies receive over 32 million monthly visits and work with new as well as used car dealers listing more than 2,25,000 used cars for sale. Combined entity will work to outperform CarDekho and horizontal classified services such as Quikr and Olx. CarTrade has many investors including Warburg Pincus. Epiphany Ventures, JP Morgan and March Capital.
Question: Rashtrapati Bhavan will be holding which conference in collaboration with Indian Council for Cultural Relations from November 21 to 23, 2015?
A. World Indology Conference
B. World Cultural Conference
C. International Indology Conference
D. International Cultural Conference
Answer: World Indology Conference
Explanation: The conference will be hosted in collaboration with Indian Council for Cultural Relations from November 21 to 23 2015. In this first of a kind event, 21 well known Indologists will be hosted by Rashtrapati Bhavan with 8 Indian scholars to debate on topics pertaining to Indian culture and philosophy. ‘Distinguished Indologist’ Award will be presented by President Mukherjee toProf. Heinrich Freiherr Von Stietencron from Germany on the occasion, having been instituted for the first time by ICCR.
Question: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has unveiled which aircraft on 13th November 2015?
A. Boeing P8I
B. Boeing P9I
C. Boeing P7I
D. None of the above
Answer: Boeing P8I
Explanation: Providing a boost to the firepower of the Indian Armed Forces, India’s defence minister dedicated Boeing P 8 I (Poseidon Eight India) Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft to the nation on 13th November 2015. The aircraft was unveiled at Southern India Naval Air Station, INS Rajali around 70 km off Chennai.P-8I aircraft is a variant of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft that Boeing developed as a replacement for the US Navy P-3 fleet. Indian Navy became the first global customer for this aircraft with a conclusion of a USD 2.1 billion contract with the US.
Question: PM Narendra Modi has gifted the Queen with the following gifts on UK visit:
A. Photographs from her 1961 visit
B. Darjeeling tea from Makaibari tea estate
C. Organic honey from J&K
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: The PM presented Her Majesty The Queen a set of photos taken 54 years ago from the first visit in India in January-February 1961 when she was a chief guest at the Republic Day parade. In addition, the Prime Minister also presented to Her Majesty some award-winning Darjeeling tea from Makaibari tea estate in West Bengal, fine organic honey from Jammu and Kashmir, and Tanchoi stoles from Varanasi.
Question: Which India origin top executive will co chair the WEF forum in January 2016?
A. Sundar Pichai
B. Satya Nadella
C. Vikram Pandit
D. None of the above
Answer: Satya Nadella
Explanation: India origin Microsoft chief Satya Nadella will co chair the World Economic Forum annual meet in January which will be attended by close to 100 business leaders including the Ambani brothers. The WEF meeting will be held at Davos, Switzerland from January 20-23 next year. More than 2500 business leaders will attend this meet the theme of which would be 'Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution’. Other co-chairs for the 2016 WEF meet are GM CEO Mary Barra, Hitachi chairman and CEO Hiroaki Nakanishi, Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, ITUC secretary general Sharan Burrow and Al Bawsala founder and chair Amira Yahyaoui.
Question: ICAN conference which was attended by India in October 2015 led to MoUs with which countries?
A. Kenya
B. Sweden
C. Finland
D. Norway
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: ICAN (International Civil Aviation Negotiations),2015 was held in Antalya, Turkey and attended by 106 nations during which “Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)” was signed by India with six countries namely Finland, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Sweden, Norway &Denmark, Oman and Ethiopia and “Agreed Minutes”with Serbia, Greece, European Commission and “Record of Discussions” with Brunei Darussalam and Qatar.
Question:  Confederation of British Industries has forecast that India will be the fastest growing economy in the G20 by which year?
A. 2016
B. 2017
C. 2018
D. 2019
Answer: 2017
Explanation: The latest quarterly economic forecast has predicted India will be the fastest growing economy in G20 by 2017 with a growth rate of 7.6%. Currently, the UK is the single largest G20 investor in India, having made investment of USD 22.2 billion between 2000 and 2015 -9% of all FDI in the country. In total, G20 nations invested USD73.9 billion in India between 2000-2015 with the UK followed by Japan ($18.3 billion), US (USD 13.7billion), Germany (USD 7.6 billion) and France (USD 4.5 billion). UK companies are the largest employers of Indians.
Question: Which former Beatles performer died in November 2015?
A. Paul McCartney
B. Ringo Starr
C. John Lennon
D. Andy White
Answer: Andy White
Explanation: He died at the age of 85 and was known for hit singles like “Love Me Do”. He was the fifth Beatles performer. White died following a stroke and he was known for his stellar performances. He was born in Glasgow in the 1930s and had an illustrious musical career following which he started teaching drumming. Pete Best and Stuart Sutcliffe are some of the other Beatles apart from the famous ones.
Question: Subgroup on rationalisation of CSS has divided central sector schemes into ____ schemes.
A. 3
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
Answer: 2
Explanation: Accordingly, existing CSS should be divided into: Core and Optional schemes.In the Core Schemes, those for social protection and social inclusion should form the Core of the Core and be the first charge on available funds for the National Development AgendA. Investment levels in Core Schemes should be maintained so as to ensure that the optimum size of the programme does not shrink.
Question: Former RBI deputy governor ________ was appointed as ED on board of IMF on November 12, 2015.
A. A. Gokarn
B. S. Gokarn
C. R. Gandhi
D. H. Khan
Answer: S. Gokarn
Explanation: Former RBI Deputy Governor Subir Gokarn was appointed on 12th November as the ED on the IMF Board.Mr. Gokarn’s name was cleared by Appointments Committee of Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as per an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training.He has replaced Mr. Rakesh Mohan at the IMF.
Question: A comprehensive website launched to cut GHG emissions in a transparent manner ahead of global climate change schedule on 12th November 2015 highlights India’s climate action plan. What is it called?
A. Just Climate Dot Org
B. Just Climate Action Dot Org
C. Justice for Climate Action Dot Org
D. None of the above
Answer: Just Climate Action Dot Org
Explanation: India on November 12, 2015 launched a detailed website covering plans to cut GHG emissions and reduce carbon emission intensity by 35% by 2030. The website Just Climate Action dot org is showcasing the comprehensive action plan of a developing country with respect to climate change. Website can be shared on social media channels . INDC targets were submitted by India to UNFCC in October 2015. INDC comprises reduction in the emissions intensity of India's GDP by 33 to 35 per cent by 2030 from 2005 level and creation of an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through extra forest and tree cover by 2030.
Question: The nations newest communication satellite has been launched on 11th November Kourou in French Guiana in South AmericA. Name the satellite?
A. GSAT 15
B. ASTROSAT
C. IRNSS-ID
D. CARTOSAT
Answer: GSAT 15
Explanation: GSAT 15 was launched on 11th November 2015. This spacecraft weighs around 3164 kgs and will replace INSAT 3A and 4B in the same orbital slot when they expire. This is India’s latest communication satellite. Its 24 transponders in Ku band will serve public and private DTH broadcasters apart from VSAT operators. The lone augmentation or GAGAN transponder in the L1 and L5 bands will ensure GPS based satellite navigation across the region. ISRO has indicated GSAT15 was put into space by European launch vehicle Ariane VA-227 which had ARABSAT 6B as the co passenger. Initial elliptical orbit was close to the intended one. GSAT-15 has cost over INR 850 crore inclusive of fees to European launch company Arianespace.
Question: Real estate industry has hailed the government decision to _____ norms for the construction sector, especially affordable housing on November 11, 2015.
A. Dilute
B. Strengthen
C. Relax
D. Both a and c
Answer: Both a and c
Explanation: GoI has relaxed FDI norms in the construction sector, boosting foreign investment into the housing sector, especially affordable housing. Government has relaxed the FDI norms in the construction sector by removing conditions relating to minimum built up area and capital requirement. Any project, irrespective of its size, will have access to FDI. This has also eased the rules for foreign investors to exit and repatriate investments.
Question: Which company has acquired 40% stake in OakNorth Bank of the UK for USD 100 million on November 11, 2015?
A. Indiabulls IHFL
B. LIC Housing Finance Limited
C. PNB Housing Finance Limited
D. None of the above
Answer: Indiabulls IHFL
Explanation: Sameer Gehlaut owned Indiabulls Housing Finance Limited has acquired stake of around 40% in OakNorth Bank, UK for USD 100 million. It has become the largest shareholder of a full service bank. Gehlaut can also buy 10% more in his personal capacity as chairperson at the same valuation. IHFL has now ventured into deposit taking franchise in the UK. The investment has been approved by the Strategic Investment Committee for Liability Franchise Development headed by ex Deputy Governor of the RBI and independent director on board, K. C. Chakarabarty. Total investments of Indiabulls Group in London’s economy will be in excess of INR 4200 crore now.
Question: Which Asian country’s opposition leader has won the elections, but will not become president because of constitutional hurdles?
A. Japan
B. China
C. Myanmar
D. Indonesia
Answer: Myanmar
Explanation: Myanmarese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi has won the parliamentary seat leading a total sweep by her party to form a first government in the country which is not under military rules. Suu Kyi will not become president however, because of constitutional hurdles created by the previous military junta in Myanmar.Military and its political proxy will not relinquish power lightly. The junta took over Myanmar in a coup in the 1960s. Suu Kyi’s NLD has won 135 seats of 151 lower house seats announced so far. For the upper house, it has won 29 out of 33 seats.
Question: Which Indian university has featured in the top 100 of THE (Times Higher Education) world university rankings for the first time on November 11, 2015?
A. IIT-B
B. IIT-K
C. IIM-A
D. IISc Bangalore
Answer: IISc Bangalore
Explanation: For the first time ever, an Indian university has featured in the world university rankings of the top 100 of the Times Higher Education. IISc Bangalore entered the list of universities for engineering and technology with a rank of 99. Top 10 of the list are dominated by US universities like Stanford, CalTech and MIT. Asian universities garnered six spots in the top 30 this year.
Question: Remains of a _____ million year old dinosaur were revealed in the border area between S. Africa and Lesotho on November 11, 2015.
A. 250
B. 300
C. 200
D. 150
Answer: 200
Explanation: The fossils of a 200 million year old dinosaur was the largest plant eating creature ever found in the border area between S. Africa and Lesotho. University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg researchers made the discovery. Remains belong to a huge plant eater the Highland Giant which is the largest animal ever found in this region. To give an idea of the size of the fossil, a femur of the Highland Giant is 1 metre long.
Question: Which RBI office bearer has been appointed as vice chairman of Bank for International Settlements?
A. Deputy Governor R. Gandhi
B. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan
C. Deputy Governor S.S. Mundra
D. Deputy Governor Harun Khan
Answer: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan
Explanation: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has been appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Bank for International Settlements on 10th November 2015. He has been appointed to a 3 year term and will joined the BIS board of directors in December 2013. The BIS Chairman is Jens Weidmann. He is also president of the Bundesbank of Germany.
Question: Which former HC CJI was appointed as the sole ethics officer on issues of conflict in Indian cricket?
A. Justice MB Shah
B. Justice AB Shah
C. Justice AP Shah
D. None of the above
Answer: Justice AP Shah
Explanation: Former CJ of the Delhi HC, Justice AP Shah was on 9th November 2015 appointed as ethics officer at BCCI and will be the sole decision maker for conflicting interest issues faced by Indian cricket. Decision for appointing the ombudsman was taken at the 86th AGM to end conflict of interest on BoarD. This is being seen as a clean up operation of the BCCI. Clean up operation has been triggered by the IPL scandal investigated by SC appointed Justice Lodha committee. Justice Shah was chairman of the 20th Law Commission of India and Chairman of the Committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Finance.
Question: Himalayas were born how many million years ago when India and Eurasia smashed into each other, scientists have discovered on 10th November 2015?
A. 45
B. 46
C. 47
D. 48
Answer: 47
Explanation: Himalayas were born 47 million years ago after India and Eurasia smashed into each other. Scientists unearthed the first oceanic microplate in the Indian Ocean and stumbled across this discovery. Currently, there are close to 7 microplanes known in the Pacific Ocean. This is the first ancient microplate to be discovered in the Indian Ocean region. Radar beams from orbiting satellite have highlighted the age of the collision and the precise date has divided scientists for over a decade. Researchers have also made the discovery that crustal stresses caused by initial collision cracked the Antarctic Plate far away form the collisional zone and broke the fragment of a size equalling Australia’s Tasmania in a remote patch of the C. India Ocean. The microplate has been named Mamerickx Microplane after Jacqueline Mammerickx, a seafloor mapping pioneer. Mammerickx Microplate rotation is revealed through rotating pattern of grooves and hills turning the ocean topography into a jagged landscape called “abyssal hills”. These hills have recorded crustal stress indicating Himalayas came into being 47 million years ago.
Question: Which facility has been offered by search engine major Google offline as well?
A. Google Play
B. GTalk
C. Google Maps
D. None of the above
Answer: Google Maps
Explanation: Google Maps has gone offline with an update for Android phones by 10th November. Users will now be able to search locations and obtain driving directions including voice prompts even if the internet connection is not working. A version for iPhones will soon be launcheD. This is an ideal feature for those who are indoors and looking for a certain location. Mapping apps on Windows phone have long had this feature.
Question: Centre on 10th November 2015 announced FDI reforms across how many sectors?
A. 13
B. 14
C. 15
D. 16
Answer: 15
Explanation: Government of India on 10th November 2015 announced big bang reforms in the FDI sector alleviating problems across 15 sectors. This includes the sectors of defence, banking, construction, civil aviation, retail and broadcasting. For facilitation of faster approvals for proposals, government has decided inter ministerial FIPB will provide approvals to proposals above INR 5000 crore from 3000 crore. This is one of the most radical reforms in the FDI sector.
Question: Which well known German chancellor died at the age of 96 on 10th November 2015?
A. Ludwig Erhard
B. Kurt Georg Keisinger
C. Helmut Schmidt
D. None of the above
Answer: Helmut Schmidt
Explanation: Ex German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt who guided West Germany through the 1970s and 80s passed away at the age of 96. He oversaw the affairs of Germany during the Cold War and the Soviet Union invasion of Afghanistan. He also combated homegrown terrorism in the country. Schmidt was an iconic statesman.
Question: Indian researchers have discovered how many new long haired species of wasps from differing parts of the country?
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
Answer: 5
Explanation: Indian researchers have discovered 5 new long haired species of wasps from different parts of the nation. The scientists who made the discovery, Veenakumari Kamalanathan, Prashanth Mohanraj and FR Khan of the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources have named them 'adikeshavus,' meaning 'first one to have long hairs' in Sanskrit. Tribe to which the 5 new wasp species have been added have an exclusive preference for spider eggs. These species are 1 to 2 mm long because of their being parasites for considerably medium sized spider eggs. Scientists have made the suggestion that clustering into groups is needed for further studies. This group of wasps will yield a much larger set of parasitoids attacking spider eggs in India.
Question: Union HRD Ministry in November 2015 launched which web portals/ mobile apps for furthering education?
A. e-Pathshala
B. Saaransh
C. National Programme on School Standards and Evaluation Framework (Shala Siddhi)
D. All of the above
Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Union HRD Ministry has launched the e-Pathshala, Saaransh and Shaala Siddhi web portal and initiatives for hosting educational resources and providing evaluation instruments across schools as well as identifying areas of improvement respectively.
Question: Larsen and Toubro has made the decision to sell a port in which state to Adani group on 9th November 2015?
A. Kerala
B. Karnataka
C. Andhra Pradesh
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: Tamil Nadu
Explanation: L&T has made the decision to sell Kattupalli Port in TN and entered into an in-principle agreement with the Adani group for the same. Sale is subject to state and central government approval. Port currently operated by L&T Shipbuiding, a subsidiary of L&T and will be sold to Adani Kattupalli Ports Private Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone. Kattupalli Port is deep water port with an international container terminal. It is a deep water all weather port.
Question: Boeing and which Indian corporate group have joined hands for manufacturing aerostructures on November 9th 2015?
A. Birla
B. Mahindra and Mahindra
C. TATA
D. Goenkas
Answer: TATA
Explanation: Aviation company Boeing has joined forces with Hyderabad based TATA Advanced Systems Ltd for manufacturing aerostructures commencing with the AH-64 Apache helicopter. Collaboration is also for partnership in integrated systems development opportunities in the nation. The two companies will create a manufacturing CoE for producing aerostructures for the Apache choppers. JV marks Being’s commitment to the Make in India initiative. TASL offers integrated solutions for home, defence and aerospace security.
Question: Which Indo Russia Joint exercise commended on November 8, 2015?
A. Shastra
B. Indra
C. Megh
D. None of the above
Answer: Indra
Explanation: The 7th Indo-Russian joint training exercise INDRA 2015 commenced at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on November 8th 2015. This 14 day training schedule is focused on Counter Terrorism operations. It is being carried out in desert terrain under UN mandate. Exercise will terminate on 20th November 2015.
Question: Indian Army has successfully test fired which missile on 9th November 2015?
A. BrahMos
B. Agni II
C. Agni IV
D. Agni V
Answer: Agni IV
Explanation: Indian Army’s Strategic Force Command on 9th November successfully test fired Agni IV missile. This is a surface to surface missile and the 4000 km range nuclear capable missile was test fired from Odisha’s Wheeler IslanD. Agni is 20 m long and 17 tonnes in weight. It carries a payload of 1 tonne has two stages of solid propulsion and a payload with re-entry heat shielD. Developed by DRDO, it was earlier known as Agni II prime.
Question: Army Cloud similar to cloud system of NIC________ has been launched in November 2015.
A. Meghraj
B. Indrashatra
C. Meghsangathan
D. None of the above
Answer: Meghraj
Explanation: A highly encrypted Cloud System of India Army was inaugurated by defence minister Parrikar in line with the aim to be a digital army. Named Army cloud, it includes a central data centre, a near line data centre and a disaster recovery site for replication of critical data in line with virtualised serves and storage in an environmentally controlled complex. This is akin to Meghraj, the NIC cloud System. Another Digital Army initiative Digi Locker has also been launched.
Question: NationaL Legal Services Day was celebrated on ____ November 2015.
A. 8th
B. 9th
C. 10th
D. 11th
Answer: 9th
Explanation: The 21st National Legal Services Day was celebrated on November 9, 2015. On this day, a call was issued to ensure fair justice for citizens. Fair justice delivery was emphasised by the PM and legal aid clinics, a NALSA initiative were lauded along with Lok Adalats and awareness programmes. The day also promotes awareness among people regarding their legal rights.
Question: Scientists in China have studied the language of pandas and decoded as many as ___ different vocalisations.
A. 12
B. 13
C. 14
D. 15
Answer: 13
Explanation: Scientists in China have discovered the meaning of as many as 13 different Panda vocalisations during a 5 year study of the language. They have studied the calls made while mating, when pandas are unhappy and how baby pandas indicate the are hungry. Scientists of China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda will now develop a Panda Translator using voice recognition software.
Question: Archaeologists have discovered fossils of which dog sized rodent in East Timor on November 8, 2015?
A. Rat
B. Gerbil
C. Mongoose
D. Mouse
Answer: Rat
Explanation: Scientists have discovered the biggest rat fossils ever in east Timor. Some of these fossils weigh as much as the size of a small dog. Humans inhabited this area around 46,000 years ago and fed on these mega fauna known to be the largest species of rat ever discovered.
Question: Which IPS officer took over as the new DGP of Odisha Police on November 8, 2015?
A. A. B. Singh
B. K. B. Singh
C. Sanjiv Marik
D. Prakash Mishra
Answer: K. B. Singh
Explanation: Veteran IPS officer K. B. Singh took over as the new DGP of Odisha on November 8, 2015. He is a UP born 1985 batch Odisha cadre officer. He replaced Sanjiv Marik who was removed from his post prior to two months before his retirement. Marik had taken charge from 1977 batch IPS officer Prakash Mishra.
Question: Which search engine major has acquired Fly Labs on 8th November 2015?
A. Yahoo
B. Bing
C. Google
D. None of the above
Answer: Google
Explanation: Search engine giant Google has acquired maker of iOS apps for video editing, Fly Labs based in New York. Fly Labs has developed 4 iOS apps for editing videos effectively. The apps include Clips, Fly, Tempo and Crop. Fly was founded by Tim Novikoff and has over 3 million users in 150 different countries. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
Question: Which university has won 2 prestigious FICCI Higher Education Awards 2015 at a New Delhi summit in the week from 1st to 7th November?
A. Madras University
B. Delhi University
C. Karnataka University
D. Manipal University
Answer: Manipal University
Explanation: Manipal University has won university of the year and excellence in employability FICCI Higher Education Awards 2015 at a summit lasting from 1st to 7th November 2015 in New Delhi. Manipal University is the highest ranked comprehensive private deemed university in the QS BRICS and Asia rankings. There are a total of 700 universities in India.
Question: The first National Cultural Festival was organised by Ministry of Culture, GoI. What is its name?
A. Rashtra Sanskriti Mahotsav
B. Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav
C. Rashtriya Jagran Mahotsav
D. None of them
Answer: Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav
Explanation: The first Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav was organised by GoI’s Ministry of Culture. This is the first of its kind National Cultural Festival. Festival say hours of daily cultural performances apart from a presentation of 150 art forms and performances by 1500 artists. Visitors viewed the artifacts, handicrafts like Haveli paintings from Punjab, Rogan artworks from Gujarat, Banarasi silk, Kalamkari (hand-painted art), Tanjore paintings and much more.
Question: Pranab Mukherjee extended greetings to the Kingdom of which nation on the eve of their Independence Day on November 8, 2015?
A. Cambodia
B. Vietnam
C. Thailand
D. None of the above
Answer: Cambodia
Explanation: President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended greetings to people and King of Cambodia on the eve of their independence day on November 9, 2015. India and Cambodia are linked by history and a shared cultural heritage. Cambodia is a partner in India’s Act East Policy.
Question: Service tax has become more expensive from November 15 as the government has imposed a ____ Swachh Bharat cess.
A. 0.4%
B. 0.5%
C. 0.6%
D. 0.7%
Answer: 0.5%
Explanation: Activities that attract service tax will become more expensive from November 15 as a 0.5% Swachh Bharat cess has been imposed by the centre. Levy has been announced in the Budget for meeting goals of the sanitation and cleanliness drive announced for the nation. In the last budget, service tax rate was increased from 12% to 14%.
Question: Freshly released census data on literacy status and educational levels of numerous workers and non workers in the nation has revealed how many are literate of a total workforce of 362.6 million?
A. 131.2 million
B. 130.2 million
C. 150.2 million
D. 151.2 million
Answer: 130.2 million
Explanation: Census data indicates 130.2 million workers literate but below matric secondary level.
Question: Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin became the first Indian to reach which mark in Indian test cricket history on 6th November 2015?
A. 150 wickets
B. 250 wickets
C. 350 wickets
D. 200 wickets
Answer: 150 wickets
Explanation: Off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on 6th November 2015 became the first Indian to reach the 150 wicket mark in the Indian test cricket history. This feat was attained when Imran Tahir’s wicket was taken by him in the first innings of the first test against South Africa in Mohali, PunjaB. Ashwin also became the first bowler to reach 50 wickets after opening the bowling in a century. This feat was attained in 12 matches off 1888 balls. Previous record was held by Colin Blythe who captured 74 wickets between 1902 and 1910 in 13 tests. This is part of the 4 match test series for winning the Freedom Trophy.
Question: Which Indian shooter won gold at the 10m air pistol women’s event at the 13th Asian Shooting Championship?
A. Anjali Bhawat
B. Annu Raj Singh
C. Shweta Chaudry
D. Heena Sindhu
Answer: Heena Sindhu
Explanation: Indian shooter Heena Sindhu on 6th November 2015 won the gold medal at the 10m air pistol women’s event at the 13th Asian Shooting Championship. Championship commenced on November 1 and will be held for up to 2 weeks in Kuwait City. She had previously won the gold medal at the 10m air pistol event in the 8th Asian Air Gun Championship held in September 2015 at New Delhi. Other Indian medal winners included Nivetha (10m air pistol junior women’s event), Shivam Shukla (25m pistol men’s junior event). Angad Bajwa secured gold in the junior skeet men’s competition.
Question: Guatemalan Congress voted on 5th November 2015 to raise minimum legal age for marriage to which number?
A. 16
B. 17
C. 18
D. 19
Answer: 18
Explanation: The minimum legal age was previously 14 (for girls) and 16(for boys). The unicameral congress voted 87 to 15 for approving the change urged by children’s rights group to eliminate child trafficking and teen pregnancies. UNICEF has estimated that close to 4000 marriages in a year involve girls aged 15 to 19 years and around 4700 of them aged between 10 to 14 years get pregnant each year.
Question: The first female Vice President of Tanzania was sworn into office on 5th November 2015. Name her.
A. Mala Yousafzai
B. Samia Hassam Sulihu
C. Sania Hassan Suluhu
D. Samia Hassan Suluhu
Answer: Samia Hassan Suluhu
Explanation: Same Hassan Suluhu, the first female Vice President of Tanzania has been sworn into office alongside John Pombe Magufuli at the swearing-in ceremony held in the country’s economic capital Dar es Salaam on 5th November 2015. The ruling CCM party candidate, Magufuli has won the presidential elections of Tanzania on 29th October 2015 with 58.46 percent of the votes. In 2000, Suluhu had been selected as special seat member for the House of Reps at Zanzibar. In the year 2014, she drafted Tanzania’s new constitution as Vice Chairperson of the CA.
Question: MHRD has supported the non-discontinuation of which type of fellowships in a directive issued to the UGC?
A. NET fellowships
B. Non NET fellowships
C. UGC fellowships
D. None of the above
Answer: Non NET fellowships
Explanation: MHRD has reiterated that Central Government has instructed the UGC to continue non NET fellowships and formed a committee under G. Barua, former IIT Guwahati director to examine this issue. Mandate of the committee is to ensure benefits of non NET fellowships reach larger number of universities. MHRD has also said that the aim is to expand such fellowships rather than discontinuing them.
Question: Research firm Gartner has estimated the Indian data infrastructure market will reach USD ___ billion in 2016.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Answer: 2
Explanation: Indian data centre infrastructure market will reach USD 2 billion in 2016 marking a 5.2% increase over 2015, according to research firm Gartner. Within the Indian IT infrastructure market, server revenue is pegged at USD 698 million in 2015 marking a 5.3% increase from 2015. The biggest segment with revenue will continue to be Enterprise networking with revenue expected to reach USD 963 million in the year 2016. This segment is the most rapidly growing market with forecast expected to rise 5.9% in 2016. A growing focus on mobility and big data activities in the country has prompted the rise of software defined networking. Storage market will reach USD 307 million in 2016, which marks a 3% rise from 2015.
Question: Which French intellectual passed away on 4th November 2015?
A. Rene Girard
B. Bernard Henri Levy
C. Alain Finkelkraut
D. None of the above
Answer: Rene Girard
Explanation: French intellectual and thinker Rene Girard known as the new Darwin passed away on 4th November 2015 after prolonged illness. In the year 2005, he was christened the New Darwin of human sciences by Michael Serres following his election to L’academie francaise. He was also emeritus professor at Stanford University’s French and Italian department for more than 30 years. He has authored over 30 books.
Question: Who has been appointed as MD of OUPI with regional responsibilities on 5th November 2015?
A. V. Swaminathan
B. C. Sivaramakrishan
C. V. Sivaramakrishnan
D. M. S. Swaminathan
Answer: V. Sivaramakrishnan
Explanation: He was appointed on 5th November 2015 and has also been given regional responsibilities including Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. He will also join the Asia Education Divisional board of the company. He follows Ranjan Kaul who retired in November 2015 after working for a decade and a half with OUP. Siva has worked with Maniple Global Education Services, Proctor and Gamble and Ford Motor Company before this.
Question: Which book authored by Nandan Nilekani and Viral Shah was released on November 4, 2015?
A. Rebooting India: A Billion Aspirations
B. Rebooting India: Understanding a Billion Aspirations
C. Rebooting India: Realising a Billion Aspirations
D. None of the above
Answer: Rebooting India: Realising a Billion Aspirations
Explanation: The book which was released in November 2015 talks about the demographic dividend of the nation and is expected to be the youngest nation in the world by 2020 with 800 million of the people being of working age. Nilekani and Shah have also examined how contradictions and gaps can distort progress and every body in the nation must realise their aspirations to bring about advancement. Rebooting India identified numerous initiatives where citizen friendly, high tech public institutions can deliver low cost solutions. Nilekani is CEO and co-founder of Infosys Technologies and was also founding chairman of UIDAI (Aadhaar). Viral Shah has also worked to design the subsidy and payment’s platform of the government using Adhaar and is co-inventor of programming language Julia apart from having founded Fourth Lion Technologies.
Question: The International Space Station/ISS turned ___ on November 2, 2015.
A. 13
B. 14
C. 15
D. 16
Answer: 15
Explanation: The International Space Station turned 15 on November 2nd and NASA celebrated the event with an amazing musical video detailing facts about the lab station and explaining the logistics of the station. Close to 200 persons have lived on the space station since its inception in 2000. Close to 1700 science experiments have been conducted on the lab.
Question: Which taxi company will purchase the local unit cars from Japanese carmaker Nissan Motors?
A. Uber
B. TaxiForSure
C. Ola
D. Meru
Answer: Ola
Explanation: Ride hailing app company Ola on 3rd November 2015 announced it would purchase vehicles from Japan based car company Nissan Motor’s local unit for fleet expansion as it competes with US based Uber for a bigger market share. Ola will also sign similar partnerships with other carmakers.
Question: RBI has fixed a public issue price at INR _____ per gram for sovereign gold bonds from November 5 to 20.
A. 2464
B. 2684
C. 2384
D. 2584
Answer: 2684
Explanation: RBI has fixed public issue price at INR 2684 per gram for sovereign gold bonds for which applications will be accepted from November 5 to 20. Gold bond scheme will offer investors interest rate of 2.75 percent and choice to purchase bods worth 2 grams of golD. This is up to a maximum of 500 grams. Rate has been fixed on account of the simple average of closing price for gold of 999 purity during the week October 22-30 2015.
Question: RBI has appointed whom as the ED on 2nd November 2015?
A. Vijay Singhal
B. Ashok Singhal
C. Deepak Singhal
D. None of the above
Answer: Deepak Singhal
Explanation: RBI on 2nd November 2015 has appointed Deepak Singhal as the Executive Director and this appointment will take place from that day itself. He replaced KK Vohra who now will manage the DICGC. He will look after Central Security Cell, Corporate Strategy and Budget Department, Department of Corporate Services, Human Resource Management Department (including HR Operations Unit), Rajbhasha Department and Right to Information Act Division. Before his appointment as ED, he had worked as Regional Director in charge of RBI, New Delhi.
Question: Which country leads the global consumer confidence index according to global insights provider Nielsen?
A. Philippines
B. Indonesia
C. US
D. India
Answer: India
Explanation: India is leading the global consumer confidence index in Q3 with 121 points followed by US, Philippines and Indonesia with 119, 117 and 116 points respectively. India’s economy may be slowing down but its consumer confidence score remains intact at 131.
Question: Who has been appointed as CMD of Andhra Bank on 2nd November 2015?
A. CVR Rajendran
B. Suresh N Patel
C. Ashok Singhal
D. None of the above
Answer: Suresh N Patel
Explanation: Patel took charge in November 2015 and has 30 years of experience in the banking sector. He succeeded CVR Rajendra who retired in April 2015 to become CEO of Association of Mutual Funds in IndiA. Patel has also worked with Dena Bank and Oriental Bank of Commerce. He is also a certified member of Indian Institute of Bankers.
Question: Scientists have found that aggression in honey bees is determined by which factor?
A. Who feeds them?
B. Who raises them?
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Who raises them?
Explanation: University of Illinois researchers have found that honey bees are tuned into the social culture of the hive as larvae depending on who has raised them. The researchers studied young bees weeks away from adulthooD. The scientists cross fostered adult bees from gentle to more aggressive colonies and vice versa and measured their gene expression. The bees were found to have a complex pattern of gene expression influenced by personal genetic identity and environment of the colony they reside in.
Question: Marine archaeologists have made a once in a lifetime discovery of how many shipwrecks near the Greek archipelago of Fourni?
A. 21
B. 22
C. 23
D. 24
Answer: 22
Explanation: Marine archaeologists have made a once in a lifetime discovery after locating 22 ancient shipwrecks near the Greek archipelago. The wrecks were uncovered by the expedition crew and date back to 700 BC, around the archipelago of Fourni, which is in the middle of an ancient trade route between Greece, Egypt and Cyprus. The scientists now hold that there could be up to 40 shipwrecks in 17 square miles. The majority of the wrecks date from between 700BC to 600AD but one was found to have sank in the 16th century .Fourni is a collection of 13 islands between the islands of Samos and Icaria and was an important staging post in the long distance trading routes between the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, Cyprus, and the Levant.
Question: A 5 day long event bringing 100 tribes from 58 nations to Shillong started on 3rd November 2015. What is its name?
A. Indigenous Terra Madre
B. International Indigenous Terra Madre
C. Global Indigenous Terra Madre
D. None of the above
Answer: International Indigenous Terra Madre
Explanation: The International Indigenous Terra Madre-2015, which brings over a 100 tribes from 58 nations together, commenced on 3 November 2015 in Shillong, Meghalaya and will run till 7 November 2015. The event’s theme is The Future We Want: Indigenous Perspectives and Actions. Reps from 14 African nations and 17 Asian countries as well as 8 nations from EU and 12 American nations along with 7 Oceania nations will take part in this 5 day long food fiesta.
Question: C-DOT has bagged an award on 2nd November 2015 for which project?
A. Gyan Setu
B. Vishwa Gyan
C. Knowledge Setu
D. None of the above
Answer:  Gyan Setu
Explanation: Centre for Development of Telematics on 2nd November 2015 has won the Recognition of Excellence award for Gyan Setu at the ITU World Telecom 2015 held at Budapest, Hungary. This project aims to boost PM Modi’s Digital India initiative and was showcased live at the event as a part of Digital India Pavilion by the C-DOT under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (IT).
Question: Which prominent Iraqi politician who had played a major role in US invasion of Iraq in 2003 has passed away on November 3, 2015?
A. Ahmed Chalabi
B. Haytham al-Jabouri
C. Aya Allawi
D. None of the above
Answer: Ahmed Chalabi
Explanation: Well known Iraqi politician Ahmed Chalabi who had played a central role in the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 died on November 3, 2015 of a heart attack. He was a secular Shia and rose to prominence as leader of exiled Iraqi national congress. Born in 1944, he worked to oppose the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003.
Question: Ratan Tata has invested in which company on 3rd November 2015?
A. Abra
B. Snapdeal
C. Sabse
D. None of the above
Answer: Sabse
Explanation: Ratan Tata has invested in California based Wi-Fi carrier Sabse Technologies founded by Hotmail co founder S. BhatiA. This comes after his investment in US based virtual currency firm AbrA. He has also backed food startup Holachef. On board of several VC funds like IDG Ventures, Kalaari Capital and Jungle Ventures and online-deal making platform LetsVenture, he is a prolific start up investor. Through his investment company RNT Associates, he invests between a couple of lakhs to 10 crores in these companies.
Question: India has successfully test fired which Supersonic Cruise Missile from INS Kochi off the west coast?
A. BrahMos
B. Agn
C. Shaheen
D. None of the above
Answer: BrahMos
Explanation: India has test fired BrahMos Supersonis Cruise Missile from INS Kochi off the west coast on 1st November 2015 in a 49th test firing and it successfully destroyed target ship Alleppey which was stationed 290 km away, the missile’s full range. INS Kochi is the latest stealth destroyer of the nation. It was inducted into the navy in September 2015. This ship can carry a total of 16 BrahMos Missiles. This missile is the first supersonic cruise version known to be in service and can carry conventional and nuclear warhead of 300 kg. It can be launched from land, sea, sub sea and air.
Question: Which country is set to be the largest producer of cotton in the world in 2015-2016 according to a USDA report?
A. China
B. India
C. Pakistan
D. Bangladesh
Answer: India
Explanation: India is the largest cotton producer in the world in the present financial year, according to USDA reports (United States Department of Agriculture). Cotton output in all major producing countries in the year except India was earlier expected to be lower than previous season. According to Southern India Mills Association, China will be vacating the position as the world’s largest cotton producer to IndiA. Cotton production in China and the US has been estimated to have fallen by 13.3 and 17.7 percent as compared to the previous year. USDA reports India has estimated production of 370 lakh bales making it the largest cotton producing nation in the world.
Question: Which well known doyen of the Indian two wheeler industry passed away on 1st November 2015?
A. Rahul Bajaj
B. Brijmohan Lal Munjal
C. Brijmohan Lall Munjal
D. O P Munjal
Answer: Brijmohan Lall Munjal
Explanation: Hero MotoCorp business leader B. L. Munjal passed away at the age of 92 on 1st November 2015 following a brief illness. He is survived by 3 sons and 1 daughter. Hero Group came into being in the 1950s. Munjal was born in 1923 at Kamalia, Pakistan. He was chairman emeritus of the USD 4 billion group since earlier this year and remained on BoD as non executive member. He was also a Padma Bhushan awardee.
Question: ADAG Reliance Communications has said it will take over which Russian conglomerate’s Indian mobile telephone unit under the MTS brand?
A. Sistema
B. ABBY
C. Acron
D. Accounter
Answer: Sistema
Explanation: ADAG led RCom will take over Russian conglomerate Sistema’s Indian mobile telephony venture operating under the MTS branD. RCom has indicated that SSTL/Sistema Shyam Teleservices Ltd will hold 10% equity stake in RCom as a result of this deal. RCom will also assume liability to pay instalments for SSTL spectrum equalling INR 392 crore per year for the next decade as part of the deal.
Question: Which AKP party Turkish leader has announced a victory/ majority in the parliamentary elections on 2nd November 2015?
A. Recep Tayyip Erdogan
B. Ahmet Davutoglu
C. Ahmet Erdogan
D. None of the above
Answer: Ahmet Davutoglu
Explanation: Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu declared victory for his ruling party after results showed it garnering a majority in the parliament. Preliminary results suggest that AKP or Justice Development Party has picked up millions of votes at the expense of the nationalist MHP and pro-Kurdish People’s Democratic Party, or HDP. AKP’s vote tally jumped nearly nine percentage points. Turnout for the election was pegged at 87% among 54 million persons eligible to vote at more than 175,000 polling stations.
Question: Which country has removed titles for the second time in its history on 2nd November 2015?
A. UK
B. US
C. Italy
D. Australia
Answer: Australia
Explanation: Australia is removing the titles associated with knights and dames once again. It had earlier done so in 1986. Former PM Tony Abbott had revived the system of knights. Malcolm Turnbull who took over from Abbott in September announced that the Queen had accepted the cabinet recommendation for removing knights and dames from the Order of Australia.
Question: Leaders of S. Korea and which nation met for formal talks for the first time in three years on 2nd November 2015?
A. China
B. Japan
C. Indonesia
D. Malaysia
Answer: Japan
Explanation: S. Korea and Japan met for their first one on one formal summit in 3 years and agreed to strengthen ties which have been plagued by historical and territorial disputes. Links between Japan and 2 Asian neighbours had fallen to a new low after Shinzo Abe took office in 2012.
Question: Which Republican was elected as the 54th speaker of the US House of Representatives on 30th October 2015?
A. John Boehner
B. Paul Smith
C. Paul Ryan
D. Jeb Bush
Answer: Paul Ryan
Explanation: Republican Paul Ryan was on 30th October 2015 elected as the 5th speaker of the US house of Representatives. Only 9 House Republicans voted against him and he fetched votes of 236 members . Ryan succeeds John Boehner of Ohio. He was sworn in as Speaker of the House and the nine-term congressman from Wisconsin, becomes the third Catholic in a row in the position, after John Boehner and Nancy Pelosi. He started working on Capitol Hill as a legislative aide in 1992 and won his House seat in 1998 when he was 28.
Question: Who has been nominated as Director to Central BoD of RBI on 30th October 2015?
A. Shaktikanta Das
B. Pradeep Kumar Sinha
C. Ajith Seth
D. B. K. Chaturvedi
Answer: Shaktikanta Das
Explanation: Shaktikanta Das presently Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs under Union Ministry of Finance has been nominated as Director to Central Board of Directors of RBI. Nomination of Das is effective w.e.f 30th October. He is a 1980 batch Tamil Nadu cadre IAS officer. Central BoD of RBI governs RBU affairs and is nominated by the Union government including 21 members on board comprising the Governor, 4 Deputy Governors, 10 Directors, two government Official, 4 directors from local boards of RBI which are headquartered at Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and New Delhi.
Question: Which online fashion marketplace has appointed Sanjeev Mohanty as CMD from December this year on 31st October 2015?
A. Myntra
B. Jabong
C. Snapdeal
D. Amazon India
Answer: Jabong
Explanation: Online fashion marketplace Jabong announced the appointment of S. Mohanty as CMD. He has over 2 decades of experience in the fashion industry and worked with Benetton as well. Prior to this, he worked at Madura Garments, SF Jeans and Levi Strauss. Another recent appointment was of CMO Saurabh Srivastava.
Question: The National Day of Algeria is celebrated on which day?
A. 31st October
B. 1st November
C. 2nd November
D. 3rd November
Answer: 1st November
Explanation: President of India Pranab Mukherjee extended greetings to People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on the eve of their national day on November 1st, 2015. India has high value for partnership with this nation with which it shares goals of sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
Question: 1st November is celebrated as the State Foundation Day of which states?
A. Chhattisgarh
B. MP
C. Both of the above
D. None of the above
Answer: Both of the above
Explanation: PM Narendra Modi has greeted people on the occasion of the State Foundation Day in MP and Chhattisgarh . It was also celebrated as the Haryana and Karnataka State Formation Day apart from being the occasion of Piravi in Kerala.
Question: National Unity Day was observed across India on the birthday of which famous Indian freedom fighter and leader?
A. Bipin Chandra Pal
B. Bal Gangadhar Tillak
C. Lala Lajpat Rai
D. Sardar Vallabhai Patel
Answer: Sardar Vallabhai Patel
Explanation: National Unity Day was observed across India on 31st October 2015 for commemorating the birthday of S. V. Patel on the occasion of his 140th birth anniversary. the PM also flagged off a Run for Unity at New Delhi’s Rajpath on this occasion. Day was observed in several other states as well. The government in October 2014 declared 31 October as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day to mark the birth anniversary of India's first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Question: BRICS nations have signed which agreement on 30th October 2015 for co-investment of resources for support of R&D projects in areas of mutual agreement?
A. Delhi Declaration
B. NY Declaration
C. Washington Declaration
D. Moscow Declaration
Answer: Moscow Declaration
Explanation: BRIC Nations Brazil, Russia, India, South Africa and China on 30th October 2015 signed Moscow Declaration for co-investment of resources for supporting multilateral Research and Development Projects in mutually agreed areas. Declaration was signed at the third meeting of the BRICS Ministers for Science, Technology and Innovation held in Russian capital city of Moscow and reflects partnership in meeting global and regional socio-economic challenges, utilising such drivers as science, technology and innovation (STI).
Question: Indian and France have signed an agreement to conserve the heritage of which National Library on 28th October 2015?
A. Mumbai
B. Kolkata
C. Chennai
D. New Delhi
Answer: Kolkata
Explanation: India and France signed an MoU to conserve the written heritage of Kolkata Library for development of digital co-operation, sharing of technical and other expertise, competency, skill-building and cultural co-operation between the two countries. The MoU will assist a programme on digitisation of old manuscripts and documents that commenced 7 years ago in France. The government has also announced the building of a National Virtual Library in India.
Question: Which cyclone is centred in the east central Arabian sea close to 1090 km from Maharashtra’s capital city, Mumbai on 29th October 2015?
A. Chakala
B. Katrina
C. Patricia
D. Chapala
Answer: Chapala
Explanation: Gujarat Meteorological Centre has requested authorities of all ports to host warning signal because of a cyclone in the state’s coast named Chapala lying centred in east central Arabian sea around 1090 km off Mumbai. As per norms, Distant Warning signal No. II (DW II) is hoisted when the system gets intensified into a storm but remains at sea.
Question: PE firm TVS Capital will acquire a stake in which firm, as per an announcement on 29th October 2015?
A. Indian Energy Exchange
B. Indian Energy Group
C. Indian Energy Limited
D. None of the above
Answer: Indian Energy Exchange
Explanation: PE firm TVS Capital through the fund TVS Shriram Growth Fund, is set to purchase 4% per cent equity stake in Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) from Bessemer Venture Partners for INR 81 crore. Fund leads a consortium headed by DCB Power Ventures of Dalmia Bharat Group.IEX is co-promoted by Power Trading Corporation of India.
Question: Which SpiceJet executive has stepped down on 29th October 2015?
A. Ajay Singh
B. Sanjiv Kapoor
C. Arjun Kapoor
D. None of the above
Answer: Sanjiv Kapoor
Explanation: SpiceJet COO Sanjiv Kapoor has put in his papers close to 10 months after the original promoter Ajay Singh took over the budget airline. Kapoor had been appointed by K. Maran in November 2013. Carrier has seen many exits of senior level executives such as Chief Commercial Officer Kaneswaran Avili and IT head Sudhakar Kondisetty.
Question: Nuclear Safety and Security Commission of which country has given operational approval to the 25th reactor of the nation?
A. North Korea
B. Japan
C. South Korea
D. China
Answer: South Korea
Explanation: Nuclear Safety and Security Commission, South Korea has given operational approval for the 25th reactor in the fifth biggest user of nuclear power in the worlD. Nuclear operator Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co Ltd (KHNP), will start a test run of Shin Kori No. 3, located in Busan, over 300 km SE of Seoul and the test run will last for 6 months. S. Korea currently runs 24 nuclear reactors supplying a third of the electricity an wants to add 13 more reactors by 2029.
Question: China has recently dropped the controversial one-child policy on 29th October 2015 and allowed couples to have how many children?
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
Answer: Two
Explanation: Bowing to pressures of an ageing society and a lowered workforce, China has eliminated the one child policy. The Chinese Communist Party has allowed couples to have two children which is an advance over 2013 ruling. This is applicable only for couples where one of the parents was a single chilD. One child policy is meant to lower the population. As per UN estimates, close to 440 million persons in China would exceed 60 by 2050 indicating a massive decline in the labour pool. In the previous year, the working population fell between 15 to 59 by 3.71 million. A question remains if rising living costs will lead to families having more than one chilD. State media has noted that of 30,000 families which could benefit from the 2013, rules, only 6.7 percent have applied for a second child.
Question: Which company has regained top spot among Indian firms for being the largest oil and gas explorer according to the 2015 Platts Top 250 Global Energy Company Rankings.
A. ONGC
B. RIL
C. Coal India
D. IOC
Answer: RIL
Explanation: In a ranking by Platts in 2015, RIL regained top spot among Indian firms on the list, beating competition from ONGC. RIL ranked 14 this year while ONGC ranked 17. RIL had been pushed to number 2 position in 2014 by ONGC has regained overall global ranking this year. This year also marks the maximum number of Indian companies (14) making it to the list.
Question: Which comet’s atmosphere has been discovered to contain molecular oxygen, according to scientists on 29th October 2015?
A. Comet 67A
B. Comet 67P
C. Comet 67D
D. None of the above
Answer: Comet 67P
Explanation: Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko’s atmosphere contains molecular oxygen. Chemical analysis of its atmosphere using ROSINA mass spectrometer abroad the Rosetta spacecraft has displayed results suggesting high proportions of molecular oxygen. Molecular oxygen level in the comet ranges from 1 to 10 percent and oxygen is the 4th most common has in the atmosphere of the comet following, CO2, water and CO.
Question: Who has won the EU’s prestigious Sakharov Prize for human rights on 29th October 2015?
A. Raif Mohammad
B. Raif Badawi
C. Boris Nemtsov
D. None of the above
Answer: Raif Badawi
Explanation: A Saudi Arabian blogger sentenced to 10 years and 1000 lashes for insulting Muslim clerics, Raif Badawi has been selected for the EU’s acclaimed Sakharov Prize for human rights. This award for freedom of thought is named after Russian scientist and dissident Andrei Sakharov and was established in 1988 to honour persons and organisations defending human rights and fundamental freedoms. He was one of 3 nominees for the prize this year alongside opposition movement Mesa de la Unidad Democratic and assassinated Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov.
Question: A committee has been set up by Union HRD ministry to review which fellowships on 29th October 2015?
A. UGC
B. Non UGC
C. NET
D. Non NET
Answer: UGC
Explanation: Union HRD ministry has established a 5 member committee for reviewing UGC fellowships including National Eligibility Test/NET and non NET ones. The former director of IIT-Guwahati Gautam Barua will be heading the panel. Committee members include the following:
- Syed Bari: Central University of Gujarat VC
- Kuldeep Agnihotri- Central University of HP VC
- Rajiv Chandawarkar- Karnataka State Women University VC.
Question: Which state decided to provide 33% reservation to women in government jobs within the state on 29th October 2015?
A. MP
B. AP
C. UP
D. WB
Answer: MP
Explanation: MP Government on 28th October 2015 has allowed 33% reservation for women up from the present 30 percent in government jobs. State Cabinet also proposed providing compensation to farmers.
Question: IBM has signed a MoU with which state’s Academy for Skill and Knowledge?
A. AP
B. TN
C. Telangana
D. MP
Answer: Telangana
Explanation: US IT major IBM and Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge have signed an MoU for the provision of technology platforms and services in cloud computing for academicians in the state. IBM cloud will be available to faculty and students to utilise for practicals and project work.
Question: Who has been appointed as CBEC chairman on 28th October 2015?
A. Najib Shah
B. Urvashi Saxena
C. Ahmad Shah
D. None of the above
Answer:  Najib Shah
Explanation: Senior IRS officer Najib Shah was appointed on 28th October as the chairman of the apex body on indirect taxes, Central Board of Excise and Customers. He will remain in office till he superannuates in 2017. He is a ’79 batch IRS officer and was previously the CBEC Member.
Question: MoU was signed between which 2 nations to ease fuel crisis on 28th October 2015?
A. Nepal, Japan
B. Nepal, Pakistan
C. Nepal, India
D. Nepal, China
Answer: Nepal, China

Explanation: Nepal on 28th October 2015 has signed an MoU with China to ease fuel crisis through important of different fuel types. MoU was signed between PetroChina and Nepal Oil Corporation and marks the first time that China will be supplying petrol to Nepal. Indian monopoly of providing fuel to Nepal ends with this.

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