FEBRUARY 2021 Current Affairs Best Revision Questions

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Article 112 of the Indian Constitution refers to the annual financial statement which is a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the government b) Annual Financial Statement is presented by the Union Finance Minister on 1st of February from the year 2016

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Union Budget also called Annual Financial Statement is presented by the Union Finance Minister on 1st of February from the year 2016. It has the financial bill and the appropriation bill that is supposed to be passed in the Indian Parliament before April 1. According to Article 112 of the Indian Constitution, the Union Budget of a year, also referred to as the annual financial statement, is a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the government for that particular year.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Fragile Little Andaman Island is in the Andaman and Nicobar group will be the financial district and medi city and will include an aerocity, and a tourism and hospital district. b) The ‘Sustainable Development of Little Andaman Island - Vision Document’, is the NITI Aayog’s proposal to leverage the strategic location and natural features of the island.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only

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B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

A plan for the sustainable and holistic development of the 680 sq km, fragile Little Andaman Island in the Andaman and Nicobar group has raised the alarm among conservationists. The ‘Sustainable Development of Little Andaman Island - Vision Document’, is the NITI Aayog’s proposal to leverage the strategic location and natural features of the island. This, the vision says, will be done by building a new greenfield coastal city there, that will be developed as a free trade zone and will compete with Singapore and Hong Kong.

Q) With reference to the Indian Naval Fast Attack Craft (IN FAC) T-81, consider the following statements: a. The 25 meters long vessel with 60 tonnes displacement was built at Goa Shipyard Ltd in collaboration with M/s Ramta of Israel. b. She was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2015.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Indian Naval Fast Attack Craft (IN FAC) T-81 of the Super Dvora MK II class, was decommissioned on 28 January 2021 at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai after having served the nation for more than 20 years. The 25 meters long vessel with 60 tonnes displacement was built at Goa Shipyard Ltd in collaboration with M/s Ramta of Israel. She was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1999. The ship, specially designed for shallow waters, could achieve speeds up to 45 knots and had the capability of day/night surveillance and reconnaissance, Search & Rescue, beach insertion, extraction of Marine Commandoes and high-speed interception of intruder craft.

Q) "ChupNaBaitho", a digital campaign to raise awareness about objectionable ads has been launched by which of the following?

A. Censor Board of India B. Consumer Guidance Society of India C. Jago Grahak Jago D. Advertising Standards Council of India

Ans - D

To raise consumer awareness about objectionable advertisements, the Advertising Standards

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Council of India (ASCI) is launching the #ChupNaBaitho, a call-to-action digital campaign. The campaign is one of several initiatives planned by ASCI, for this year, to create awareness about objectionable advertisements and encourage consumers to report such advertisements.

Q) According to Brand Finance’s Global 500 ranking of the strongest brands globally, the Reliance Jio has a rank of -

A. 4th B. 5th C. 6th D. 7th

Ans - B

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s four-year-old telecom venture Reliance Jio has been ranked the fifth strongest brand globally behind the likes of Ferrari and Coca-Cola. As per the ranking, Reliance Jio has emerged as the 5th strongest brand in the world. Reliance Jio has made its entry to the world’s strongest brands. Reliance has been ranked as the 5th strongest brand in the world. It has a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 91.7 out of 100.

Q) Which of these statements regarding the Economic Survey is correct? a) The Economic Survey is prepared by a team led by the Finance Minister. b) The Economic Survey is tabled in the Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister.

A. Only a B. Only b C. Both D. None

Ans - B The Economic Survey is prepared by a team led by the Chief Economic Advisor. Union Finance Minister - Nirmala Sitharaman Chief Economic Advisor - K.V. Subramaniam

Q) According to the Economic Survey of 2020-2021, the GDP growth in the Financial Year 22 will be -

A. 7.7% B. 9.5% C. 12.1% D. 11%

Ans - D

The Economic Survey has predicted a GDP growth rate for FY22 will be 11%. The IMF has also predicted 11.5 % growth for the Indian Economy.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

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Q) Which country has become the only country in the current world to be led by women i.e. both the Prime Minister and the President are women?

A. Finland B. Norway C. Estonia D. New Zealand

Ans - C

Prime Minister of Estonia - Kaja Kallas President of Estonia - Kersti Kaljulaid Capital - Tallinn Currency - Euro Estonia is a Baltic State and is a part of both; European Union and NATO.

Q) Indian Army has received the first batch of Negev weapons from Israel as it seeks to boost the firepower. The Negev is a -

A. Predator Drone B. Light Machine Gun C. Mobile SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile) System D. Carbine

Ans - B

Indian Army has received the first batch of Negev Light Machine Guns (LMG) from Israel as it seeks to boost the firepower of frontline troops. Last year, India’s Defence Ministry signed an Rs8.8bn ($120.57m) capital acquisition contract with Israel Weapons Industries to procure 16,479 LMGs under the Fast Track Procedure. In the first batch, 6,000 guns were delivered, while the remaining units are expected to be supplied by March.

Q) With reference to the STARS project, consider the following statements: 1. It would be implemented as a new Central Sector Scheme under the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education (MOE). 2. At the State level, the project will be implemented through the integrated State Implementation Society (SIS) for Samagra Shiksha.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2

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D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

Agreement for the financial support of the implementation of Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) project of Ministry of Education (MOE) was signed between Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) and World Bank along with Ministry of Education. Earlier Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the STARS project in October 2020. The Program envisions improving the overall monitoring and measurement activities in the Indian school education system through interventions in 6 States viz Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, and Odisha.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The overall Budget outlay for ‘Health and Well-being is ₹2.23 lakh crore, marking a 137% rise over 2020-21. b) The Minister targeted a fiscal deficit of 6.8% of the GDP,

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The overall Budget outlay for ‘Health and Well-being’, she said, is ₹2.23 lakh crore, marking a 137% rise over 2020-21. Proposing a capital expenditure of ₹5.54 lakh crore in the year, 34.5% higher than 2020-21, the Minister targeted a fiscal deficit of 6.8% of the GDP, with gross market borrowings of about ₹12 lakh crore. Analysts said the Budget’s fiscal arithmetic was perhaps the most credible in recent years, but achieving disinvestment and non-tax revenue targets will be critical to meet the deficit target.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Myanmar’s military seized power in a coup against the democratically elected government b) Myanmar President Aung San Suu Kyi is a Nobel laureate, who was detained along with other leaders of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

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Myanmar’s military seized power on Monday in a coup against the democratically elected government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was detained along with other leaders of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party in early morning raids. The Army said it had carried out the detentions in response to “election fraud”, handing power to military chief Min Aung Hlaing and imposing a state of emergency for one year, according to a statement on a military-owned television station. This, the vision says, will be done by building a new greenfield coastal city there, that will be developed as a free trade zone and will compete with Singapore and Hong Kong.

Q) With reference to the National e-Vidhan project, consider the following statements: 1. e-Vidhan is a Mission Mode Project (MMP) included in Digital India Programme. 2. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is the ‘Nodal Ministry’ for its implementation in all the States/ UTs with Legislatures.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Meghalaya State Assembly Speaker visited Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Secretariat in Itanagar to get first-hand information about the National e-Vidhan project implemented in the Assembly. e-Vidhan is a Mission Mode Project (MMP) included in the Digital India Programme and Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) is the ‘Nodal Ministry’ for its implementation in all the States/ UTs with Legislatures. Funding of NeVA is on the pattern of Central Sponsored Scheme i.e. 60:40; and 90:10 for North East & hilly States and 100% for UTs. The funding for e-Vidhan is provided by the MoPA and technical support by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

Q) Which is the first European Union country to approve the purchase of Chinese vaccine for COVID-19 virus?

A. Germany B. Hungary C. Croatia D. Norway

Ans - B

Hungary became the European Union's first member to approve China's Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine, sealing a deal on Friday for 5 million doses just a week after becoming the first EU member to buy Russia's Sputnik V vaccine.

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Capital of Hungary - Budapest Currency of Hungary - Hungarian Forint

Q) The country's first centralized air-conditioned railway terminal is being built in which city? A. New Delhi B. Mumbai C. Kolkata D. Bangalore

Ans - D

The country's first centralized AC railway terminal is all set to come up in Bengaluru. South Western Railway (SWR) officials said Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru (Byappanahalli Third Coaching Terminal) will be ready by the end of February.

Q) Name the first Gulf country to formalize the process to offer citizenship to a select group of foreigners?

A. Saudi Arabia B. Bahrain C. Qatar D. UAE

Ans - D

The United Arab Emirates plans to offer citizenship to a select group of foreigners, the first Gulf Arab nation to formalize a process aimed at giving expatriates a bigger stake in the economy.

Q) Which of these statements are correct regarding the Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)? a) India has been ranked 10th out of 11 countries. b) Singapore has been ranked 1st in the index.

A. Only a B. Only b C. Both D. None

Ans - C

India ranked 10th out of 11 Asia Pacific countries in a newly-launched health index to measure the progress towards personalized healthcare. Singapore(1st), Taiwan (2nd), Japan (3rd) and Australia (4th) also performed well in overall readiness. These include Policy Context, Health Information, Personalised Technologies, and Health Services.

Q) Which of these statements are correct? a) The Kerala government is all set to launch a Rs 300 crore three-tower ‘Gender Park’ in Kozhikode

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b) The gender park was established with the aim of creating relevant interventions so as to address a range of gender-based issues

A. Only a B. Only b C. Both D. None

Ans - C

The park will become functional on the occasion of the second edition of the International Conference on Gender Equality (ICGE-II). The park will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, in between February 11-13 that will also mark the inauguration of the second edition of ICGE-II.

Q) Which of these statements are correct? a) India's first mega leather park will be set up in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. b) The project has been approved by the Union Minister of Commerce, Piyush Goyal.

A. Only a B. Only b C. Both D. None

Ans - C

Mega leather park to come up in Ramaipur village of Kanpur with an investment of Rs 5,850 crores. The park, part of the mega leather cluster project will create 50,000 direct jobs & indirect employment for 1.5 lakh people. Recently, the project has received approval from the Union Commerce Ministry. The mega leather cluster project will attract an investment of about Rs 13,000 crores.

Q) Consider the following statements: 1. India is the largest producer of Silk in the world. 2. India is the only country in the world that produces all the four major varieties of silk i.e. Mulberry, Eri, Tassar, and Muga.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

Union Textiles Minister Smriti Zubin Irani inaugurated the 8th edition of the India International Silk Fair virtually.

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The fair is considered to be India’s biggest silk fair, being held under one roof on Indian Silk Export Promotion Council’s virtual platform from 31st January to 4th February 2021. India International Silk Fair is the Sourcing Fair for silk and silk blend products organized by the Indian Silk Export Promotion Council under the aegis of Ministry of Textiles and sponsored by Department of Commerce. India has a long history of silk production and is the 2nd largest producer of Silk. India is the only country in the world that produces all the four major varieties of silk i.e. Mulberry, Eri, Tassar, and Muga.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) For the first time in Tamil Nadu, the Metro Rail was used to transport an organ from one hospital to another for transplantation. b) The Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) created a green corridor to facilitate the non-stop transport of a heart from the Kamineni Hospitals to save a patient admitted to the Apollo Hospital.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

For the first time in Telangana, the Metro Rail was on Tuesday used to transport an organ from one hospital to another for transplantation. The Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) created a green corridor to facilitate the non-stop transport of a heart from the Kamineni Hospitals to save a patient admitted to the Apollo Hospital. Usually, organs are transported by road intra-city. Though traffic could be cleared to establish a green channel, surgeons felt the heart could be transported faster through the Metro Rail.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The first phase of house listing and housing census and the National Population Register (NPR) was to be rolled out in some States on April 1, 2020 b) The National Register of Citizens is a register of all Indian citizens whose creation is mandated by the 2003 amendment of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The first phase of house listing and housing census and the National Population Register (NPR)

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was to be rolled out in some States on April 1 last year but was postponed indefinitely due to COVID-19. The National Register of Citizens is a register of all Indian citizens whose creation is mandated by the 2003 amendment of the Citizenship Act, 1955. Its purpose is to document all the legal citizens of India so that the illegal immigrants can be identified and deported.

Q) With reference to the Securities markets, consider the following statements: 1. The Government will support the development of a world-class Fin-Tech hub at the GIFT-IFSC. 2. Recently the Union Finance Minister proposed to introduce an investor charter as a right of all financial investors across all financial products.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

During the budget 2021-22, Union Minister for Finance announced that the Government will consolidate the provisions of SEBI Act, 1992, Depositories Act, 1996, Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 and Government Securities Act, 2007 into a rationalized single Securities Markets Code. The Government will support the development of a world-class Fin-Tech hub at the GIFT-IFSC. In order to instill confidence amongst the participants in the Corporate Bond Market during times of stress and to generally enhance secondary market liquidity, Union Budget 2021-22 proposes to create a permanent institutional framework.

Q) With reference to the Union Budget 2021-22, consider the following statements: 1. It is proposed to set up a Higher Education Commission of India as an umbrella body having 4 separate vehicles for standard-setting, accreditation, regulation, and funding. 2. It is also proposed to set up a Central University in Leh for accessible higher education in Ladakh.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Union Budget 2021-22 proposes Qualitative Strengthening of 15,000 Schools to include all components of National Education Policy. Also, 100 new Sainik Schools will be set up in partnership with NGOs/private schools/states. It is proposed to set up a Higher Education Commission of India as an umbrella body having 4

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separate vehicles for standard-setting, accreditation, regulation, and funding. It is also proposed to set up a Central University in Leh for accessible higher education in Ladakh.

Q) Which metro has become the 1st metro in the country to use ultraviolet rays to sanitize train coaches? A. Delhi Metro B. Lucknow Metro C. Hyderabad Metro D. Kolkata Metro

Ans - B

Lucknow Metro has become the 1st metro in the country to use ultraviolet rays to sanitize train coaches. For this, the LMRC has procured UV sanitization apparatus from M/s FB TECH, an Indian firm in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has taken inspiration from the New York Metro’s experiment to sanitize trains with UV lamp rays.

Q) Which Union Ministry has launched a breakthrough Reference Material for use in chemical testing in the field of anti-doping? A. Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers B. Ministry of Commerce and Industry C. Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution D. Ministry of Sports

Ans - D

Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Kiren Rijiju has launched a breakthrough Reference Material for use in chemical testing in the field of anti-doping. A reference material jointly synthesized by the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) and National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Guwahati.

Q) India's first virtual academy for E-sports will be set up by -

A. Asus B. Samsung C. Motorola D. Apple

Ans - A

The Asus Republic of Gamers (ROG), the brand behind the popular ROG gaming phone series, has announced the launch of the Asus ROG Academy in India. The competitive Esports training initiative will be India’s first virtual academy program for upcoming gamers who are looking to be professionals.

Q) Recently, the first round of Pulse Polio Programme 2021 was launched by whom?

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A. Prime Minister, Narendra Modi B. Health Minister, Dr. Harshvardhan C. The President of India, Shri Ramnath Kovind D. The Vice-President of India, VK Naidu

Ans - C

President Ram Nath Kovind launched the pulse polio program for 2021 on Saturday by administering polio drops to children less than five years of age at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President and First Lady Savita Kovind administered polio drops to children on the eve of the Polio National Immunization Day, which is observed on January 31, 2021. Around 17 crore children of less than 5 years of age will be given polio drops as part of the drive of the government to sustain the polio-free status of the country.

Q) Which country has asked India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam to construct a hydropower project in their country?

A. Bangladesh B. Nepal C. Bhutan D. Myanmar

Ans - B

Nepal has decided to award the contract for the construction of 679 megawatt Lower Arun Hydropower Project to India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN). This was decided at a meeting of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN), chaired by Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Q) The famous "Mission Bhagirath" programme aimed at providing clean drinkable water to every household is launched by which State?

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

Ans - D

Bhagiratha is a project for safe drinking water for every village and city household in Telangana State, with a budget of ₹43,791 crores. The project is a brainchild of Telangana Chief Minister, K. Chandrashekar Rao, that aims to provide piped water to 2.32 crore people in 20 lakh households in urban and 60 lakhs in rural areas of Telangana.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Billionaire Jeff Bezos, who founded Amazon as an online bookseller nearly three decades ago, will step down as the CEO.

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b) The global retail giant in the third quarter of 2021 will have Andy Jassy being named as his successor.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Billionaire Jeff Bezos, who founded Amazon as an online bookseller nearly three decades ago, will step down as the CEO of the $1.7 trillion global retail giant in the third quarter of 2021, with Andy Jassy being named his successor. Amazon, which announced on Wednesday that 2020 net sales had increased 38% to $386.1 billion, compared with $280.5 billion in 2019, said Mr. Bezos, 57, will transition to the role of Executive Chair in the third quarter of this year.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The 13th edition of Aero India was conducted in Ambala. b) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was awarded the contract to manufacture 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas for the Indian Air Force (IAF)

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

At the 13th edition of Aero India in Bengaluru, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was awarded the contract to manufacture 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas for the Indian Air Force (IAF) at an estimated cost of ₹48,000 crores, while India showcased a range of indigenous military platforms to the world.

Q) With reference to the ‘Chauri Chaura’ incident, consider the following statements: 1. The Chauri Chaura incident took place on 4 February 1922. 2. Chauri Chaura is located in Bihar.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

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Ans - A

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Chauri Chaura Centenary Celebrations at Chauri Chaura, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, on 4th February 2021. The day marks 100 years of the ‘Chauri Chaura’ incident, a landmark event in the country’s fight for independence. The Chauri Chaura incident took place on 4 February 1922 at Chauri Chaura in the Gorakhpur district of the United Province (modern Uttar Pradesh) in British India. In this, a large group of protesters participating in the Non-cooperation movement clashed with police who opened fire. In retaliation the demonstrators attacked and set fire to a police station, killing all of its occupants.

Q) India's first Centre for Wetland Conservation and Management has been set up in which city? A. New Delhi B. Chennai C. Bengaluru D. Mumbai

Ans - B

A dedicated Centre for Wetland Conservation and Management (CWCM) has been established at the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management(NCSCM), Chennai, an institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This was announced by Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Babul Supriyo on the occasion of the World Wetland Day on 2nd February 2021.

Q) Recently, which Indian-American has been appointed as the acting chief of staff? A. Raj Chetty B. Abhijit Banerjee C. Kaushik Basu D. Bhavya Lal

Ans - D

Bhavya Lal, the Indian-American scientist who oversaw NASA’s transition under President Joe Biden’s administration has been appointed as the Acting Chief of Staff of the U.S. space agency.

Q) Which state has launched the "Har Ghar Paani, Har Ghar Safai"?

A. Telangana B. Maharashtra C. Punjab D. Uttar Pradesh

Ans - C

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday virtually launched the 'Har Ghar

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Pani, Har Ghar Safai' mission as part of the government's campaign to accomplish the goal of 100 percent potable piped water supply in all rural households by March next year.

Q) Which State is the winner of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy?

A. Punjab B. Tamil Nadu C. Bihar D. West Bengal

Ans - B

The team of Tamil Nadu was captained by Dinesh Kartik.

Q) "Shivalik Arboretum" has been inaugurated in which State?

A. Assam B. Uttarakhand C. Himachal Pradesh D. Maharashtra

Ans - B

A first of its kind arboretum conserving over 210 species of trees found in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas was inaugurated in Uttarakhand's Nainital district. The Shivalik Arboretum has over 210 tree and shrub species, making it one of the biggest arboreta in Uttarakhand.

Q) The World Tourism Organisation marks 2020 as the "worst year on record". Where is the headquarters of WTO?

A. New York B. Geneva C. Madrid D. Vienna

Ans - C

In accordance with the latest United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN-WTO) “World Tourism Barometer”, the year 2020 was the “worst year on record” as global tourism suffered adversely due to international travel bans implemented to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.

Q) With reference to the Budget 2021-22, consider the following statements: 1. Fiscal deficit in Revised Estimates (RE) 2020-21 is pegged at 9.5% of GDP. 2. The fiscal deficit in Budgetary Estimates (BE) 2021-2022 is estimated to be 6.8% of GDP.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

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B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Against an original Budgetary Estimates (BE) 2020-2021 for the expenditure of Rs. 30.42 lakh crore, the Revised Estimates (RE) 2020-21 are Rs. 34.50 lakh crore. The fiscal deficit in RE 2020-21 is pegged at 9.5% of GDP. It has been funded through the Government borrowings, multilateral borrowings, Small Saving Funds, and short-term borrowings. Another Rs 80,000 crore would be needed for which the Government would be approaching the markets in these 2 months. The fiscal deficit in BE 2021-2022 is estimated to be 6.8% of GDP. The gross borrowing from the market for the next year would be around 12 lakh crore.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Nearly one in five Indians had been infected by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus until December 2020 according to the third round of the serological survey b) The serological survey is conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Nearly one in five Indians had been infected by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus until December 2020, the third round of the serological survey by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has found. This is roughly a three-fold increase since August and a 30-fold increase since May, when previous rounds of the survey were conducted.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) is actively looking for exports of the Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) b) HAL Chairman and Managing Director R. Madhavan said each LCA MK1A jet would cost ₹306 crores.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2

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D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) is actively looking for exports of the Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) with countries in South East Asia and West Asia showing interest in buying it, HAL Chairman and Managing Director R. Madhavan said on Thursday. Each LCA MK1A jet would cost ₹306 crores. The cost of each LCA-MK1A was ₹309 crores and the trainer ₹280 crore which, Mr. Madhavan said, was a very competitive price. The indigenous content of the aircraft was about 52%. HAL was looking at ways to increase it to 65%. It would be offering the same version that was in service with the IAF to friendly foreign countries and at the same price.

Q) With reference to Aero India 2021, consider the following statements: 1. Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Delhi. 2. It is organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

The Inaugural ceremony for Aero India 2021, Asia’s largest Aerospace and Defence Exhibition is being held at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru between February 03-05, 2021. Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Bengaluru, India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station. It is organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence. The first edition of the air show was held in 1996. Aero India 2021 is the 13th edition of Aero India. This year Aero India 2021 has been organized in hybrid mode with a concurrent virtual exhibition to encourage maximum participation.

Q) Oxford Languages, the world’s leading dictionary publisher, has named which word as the Hindi word of the year 2020? A. Mahamaari B. Aatmanirbharta C. Arthavyavastha D. Bimari

Ans - B

Oxford Languages, the world’s leading dictionary publisher, has named ‘Aatmanirbharta’ as the Hindi word of the year 2020. The Oxford Hindi word of the year is a word or expression that is chosen to reflect the ethos, mood, or preoccupations of the passing year, and have lasting potential as a term of cultural significance. ‘Aatmanirbharta’ means self-reliance. The word was

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chosen as it “validated the day-to-day achievements of the countless Indians who dealt with and survived the perils of a pandemic”.

Q) Which Union Ministry has addressed the inaugural ceremony of the ASEAN India Hackathon 2021 on February 1?

A. Ministry of Sports B. Ministry of Road and Transport C. Ministry of Education D. Ministry of Railways

Ans - C

The Union Education Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has addressed the inaugural ceremony of the ASEAN India Hackathon 2021 on February 1. The Ministry of Education has launched the ASEAN India Hackathon 2021. The ASEAN India Hackathon 2021 is being conducted virtually from February 1 to 3, 2021. The 10 ASEAN countries are- Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.

Q) Malauji, the largest inhabited riverine island is in news in the context of the 15th Finance Commission. In which State is the Malauji located?

A. Maharashtra B. Kerala C. Assam D. Orissa

Ans - C

Mājuli or Majoli is a river island in the Brahmaputra River, Assam and in 2016 it became the first island to be made a district in India. The 15th Finance Commission has recommended a new embankment-cum-road around Assam's Majuli, the world's largest inhabited riverine island. A total of ₹1,075 crores has been proposed for the construction of the new embankment-cum-road. The commission also recommended ₹300 crores for the development of the Kamakhya temple complex.

Q) The new START nuclear treaty that is in news these days is a treaty between which two countries?

A. USA and China B. USA and North Korea C. USA and Iran D. USA and Russia

Ans - D

The United States and Russia have extended a crucial nuclear arms control treaty until 2026, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday. The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty

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or New START is the last nuclear treaty between the two countries and was set to expire on Feb. 5. Renewing the agreement was one of the first national security challenges facing President Joe Biden’s administration.

Q) After the resignation of Jeff Bezos, who is going to be the new CEO of Amazon?

A. Andy Jassy B. Indra Nooyi C. Brian Olsavsky D. Marc Lore

Ans - A

Andrew R. Jassy is an American businessman and the CEO of Amazon Web Services. He is also one of the minority owners of the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League. Jassy has led AWS since its inception in 2003.

Q) Indo-US joint military exercise "Yudh Abhyas" will be held on which place on 8th February?

A. Punjab B. Rajasthan C. Kerala D. Gujarat

Ans - B

Indo-US joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' to begin in Rajasthan on Feb 8. The exercise near the India-Pakistan border aims at enhancing cooperation and interoperability between the two armies and will focus on counter-terrorism operations under the United Nations mandate, the spokesperson said.

Q) MetroNeo, recently seen in the news, is to be adopted for the first time in the country in which of the following city?

A. Nashik B. Kollam C. Panaji D. Madurai

Ans - A

By making a sizeable budgetary allocation for MetroNeo in the Union Budget, the central government has paved the way for the innovative system of mass transport, which could soon be replicated across the country. To be adopted for the first time in the country in Maharashtra’s Nashik, MetroNeo is a comfortable, rapid, energy-efficient, and less noisy transport medium. The central government recently urged all state governments to consider using MetroNeo technology in their tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

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The MetroNeo service consists of electric bus coaches – their lengths varying from 18 to 25 meters – with a carrying capacity of 200 to 300 passengers at a time.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Anticipatory bail is a direction issued to release a person on Bail even before the person is arrested. b) Bail granted for a temporary and short period by the Court till the application seeking Anticipatory Bail or Regular Bail is pending before a Court.is Interim Bail

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Munawar Faruqui gets ad-interim bail Interim Bail: Bail granted for a temporary and short period by the Court till the application seeking Anticipatory Bail or Regular Bail is pending before a Court. Anticipatory Bail: A direction issued to release a person on Bail even before the person is arrested. In this situation, there is apprehension of arrest and the person is not arrested before the Bail is granted. For such Bail, a person can file an application under Sec. 438 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). It is issued only by the Sessions Court and High Court.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Jharkhand’s Jamtara district has the dubious distinction of being the “phishing capital of India”. b) A library movement developed in a short span of time in Jharkhand’s Jamtara district is receiving a steady flow of students

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

A library movement developed in a short span of time in Jharkhand’s Jamtara district is receiving a steady flow of students and helping them turn a new page. The district’s love for books assumes huge significance as it has the dubious distinction of being the “phishing capital of India”. Many youths, mostly drop-outs in the 15-35 age group, have been turning to cybercrime to earn a few quick bucks.

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Q) With reference to the ‘Per Drop More Crop’ scheme, consider the following statements: 1. It is a central sector scheme. 2. It is a component of ‘Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY-PDMC)’.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW) is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Per Drop More Crop’ component of ‘Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY-PDMC)’ from 2015-16 in all the States of the country. It focuses on enhancing water use efficiency at farm level through Micro Irrigation viz. Drip and Sprinkler irrigation systems. Besides promoting Micro Irrigation, this component also supports micro-level water storage or water conservation/management activities to supplement source creation for Micro Irrigation.

Q) What is India's rank in the Democracy Index released by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)? A. 51 B. 53 C. 63 D. 86

Ans - B

India’s position has slipped by two places to be placed at 53rd spot in the 2020 Democracy Index, from among 167 countries. The overall score of India is 6.61 in the Index, on a scale of 0-10. India has been classified as a ‘flawed democracy. Norway has topped the Index. Iceland, Sweden, New Zealand, and Canada are the top five countries on the list.

Q) India’s First Amputee Clinic has been launched in which city?

A. New Delhi B. Chandigarh C. Lucknow D. Kanpur

Ans - B

The first of its kind ‘amputee clinic’ in India, has been launched by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), a premier medical and research institution in Chandigarh. The basic intent of this initiative is to bring an Amputee as a near-normal functional human being in society.

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Q) The Defense Minister has recently inaugurated the "Chiefs of Air Staff Conclave" in which city?

A. Bangalore B. Mumbai C. New Delhi D. Jaipur

Ans - A

Raksha Mantri, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated the ‘Chiefs of Air Staff (CAS) Conclave’ at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The two-day conclave has been organized by Indian Air Force, from 3 to 04 February 2021, in a Hybrid Form with extensive use of digital media. The Chiefs of Air Staff from about 75 countries would come together on a single platform to exchange their thoughts on current issues related to aerospace power strategy and technological developments.

Q) Who has been appointed as the Chairman of the National Safety Council?

A. Amitabh Kant B. Arvind Panagariya C. S.N. Subramanyan D. K.M. Subramanian

Ans - C

Ministry of Labour and Employment on Thursday said that it has appointed S N Subrahmanyan as Chairman of National Safety Council (NSC) for three years.

Q) The HAL has recently signed an MoU with which of the following organizations to develop and manufacture composite raw materials?

A. DRDO B. MIDHANI C. Tata Steel D. RINL

Ans - B

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) have signed an MoU for the development and production of composite raw materials during the Aero India 2021 in Bengaluru on February 04, 2021. Composites raw materials, mainly in the form of prepregs used in platforms like Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) are currently imported.

Q) The Ministry of Petroleum, the Ministry of Animal Husbandry, and Ministry of Jal Shakti has jointly launched a unified web portal to monitor which of the following schemes?

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A. Ujjwala B. Jan Dhan C. Gobardhan D. Ujala

Ans - C

Gobardhan aims to positively impact village cleanliness and generate wealth and energy from cattle and organic waste. It focuses on managing and converting cattle dung and solid waste in farms to useful compost, biogas, and bio-CNG. It will also help in keeping the village clean while increasing the income of farmers and cattle herders.

Q) Which of the following Union Ministry look after the development of Ropeways and Alternate Mobility Solutions?

A. Ministry of Rural Development B. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change C. Ministry of Railways D. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

Ans - D

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will, from now on, also look after the development of Ropeways and Alternate Mobility Solutions. The Ministry will also look after the construction, research, and policy in this area. Formulation of institutional, financial, and regulatory framework for the technology will also fall under the ambit of this move. The move is expected to give a boost to the sector, by setting up a regulatory regime, and facilitating research and new technology to come into this sector. An amendment to the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961 has been notified, to enable this step.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Rishiganga and Dhauliganga rivers are in Chamoli district of Himachal Pradesh b) Rishiganga hydel project has an installed capacity of 13.2 megawatts (MW)

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

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Seven persons were killed and over 125 reported missing after a “glacial burst” on Nanda Devi triggered an avalanche and caused flash floods in Rishiganga and Dhauliganga rivers in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand on Sunday. While the Rishiganga hydel project had an installed capacity of 13.2 megawatts (MW), the 520 MW NTPC Tapovan-Vishnugad project on the Dhauliganga was much larger. Both sites have been virtually washed away, an eyewitness told this newspaper.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) ‘Thozhilali Sreshta’ honor is given by the Kerala Govt. b) K. Sasi - a coconut plucker is among the 15 laborers who got the ‘Thozhilali Sreshta’ honor

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Forty years ago, K. Sasi chose to become a coconut plucker. He has never looked back. Now 60, Mr. Sasi is on cloud nine after bagging the ‘Thozhilali Sreshta’ award of the Kerala government last week. K. Sasi is among the 15 laborers who got the ‘Thozhilali Sreshta’ honor

Q) With reference to trans fats, consider the following statements:

1. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has amended its rules to cap trans-fatty acids (TFAs) in food products. 2. The 2% cap is considered to be the elimination of trans-fatty acids, which India will achieve by 2022.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has amended its rules to cap trans-fatty acids (TFAs) in food products, just weeks after it tightened the norms for oils and fats. Food products in which edible oils and fats are used as an ingredient shall not contain industrial trans-fatty acids more than 2% by mass of the total oils/fats present in the product, on and from 1st January 2022. The 2% cap is considered to be the elimination of trans-fatty acids, which India will achieve by

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2022. In December 2020, the FSSAI had capped TFAs in oils and fats to 3% by 2021, and 2% by 2022 from the current levels of 5%.

Q) Which Union Territory became the first Union Territory to be corona-free?

A. Lakshadweep island B. Andaman and Nicobar Islands C. Daman & Diu D. Puducherry

Ans - B

Andaman and Nicobar Islands has become the first state or Union territory in the country to become Covid-19 free with active cases falling to zero in the islands. Health ministry’s website reported that the last four infected persons in Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been declared cured. The UT had reported a total of 4,932 cases and 62 deaths from the virus.

Q) Which digital payment platform will shut domestic payments service in India from April 1?

A. PayTm B. Google Pay C. PayPal D. PhonePe

Ans - C

The California-based global digital payment platform PayPal has announced that the company has decided to wind down its domestic payment services in India with effect from April 01, 2021. The decision has been taken because the company wants to shift its focus on cross-border payments business.

Q) Which country has approved a project to build the world’s first energy island to produce and store enough green energy to meet the electricity needs? A. China B. France C. Norway D. Denmark

Ans - C

The Government of Denmark has approved a project to build the world’s first energy island, in the North Sea that will produce and store enough green energy to meet the electricity needs of three million households in European countries. The hub will strengthen the integration of. Europe’s power grids and increases renewable electricity production necessary for a climate-neutral Europe.

Q) India's first thunderstorm research testbed will be built in which State?

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A. West Bengal B. Odisha C. Maharashtra D. Kerala

Ans - B

Odisha's Balasore will get the country's first thunderstorm research testbed, India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said. The objective of setting up the thunderstorm testbed is to minimalize human fatalities and loss of property due to lightning strikes.

Q) The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has signed an MoU with Zomato for empowering street food vendors with new digital technology and to provide greater income- earning opportunities on the food delivery platform? A. FoodPanda B. Zomato C. Swiggy D. BigBasket

Ans - B

As part of Prime Minister Street Vendor's AtmaNibhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme, MoHUA and Zomato will work together to onboard street food vendors on Zomato's food-tech platform, a ministry statement explained. This agreement will give street vendors access to thousands of customers and would thus help them in growing their business. MoHUA has also introduced 'PMSVANidhi se Samriddhi' mobile app for socio-economic profiling of the scheme's beneficiaries and their families. This app will link beneficiaries to various other central government schemes.

Q) Which of the following has organized an international seminar on the Aero India Show 2021 with the theme of "Energising the R&D Capabilities of the Industry for Aatmanirbhar Bharat"?

A. DRDO B. ISRO C. HAL D. BDL

Ans - A

It was held from February 3 to 5, 2021 at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru; Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) exhibited its latest defense technologies and demonstrate many systems.

Q) With reference to the 1st India- EU High-Level Dialogue (HLD) on trade and investment, consider the following statements: 1. It was a major outcome of the 15th India-EU Leader’s Summit held in July 2020. 2. In this meeting India signed free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union.

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Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

The 1st High-Level Dialogue (HLD), co-chaired by the Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and the European Union Executive Vice-President & Trade Commissioner Mr. Valdis Dombrovskis was held on 5th February 2021. Commitment to the establishment of this Dialogue was a major outcome of the 15th India-EU Leader’s Summit held in July 2020, with an objective for Ministerial level guidance towards the bilateral trade and investment relations.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The new labor codes set to be implemented soon would provide companies the flexibility of reducing the number of working days to four days a week b) It can also provide free medical check-ups to workers through the Employees State Insurance Corporation

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

The new labor codes set to be implemented soon would provide companies the flexibility of reducing the number of working days to four days a week and provide free medical check-ups to workers through the Employees State Insurance Corporation, Labour and Employment Secretary Apurva Chandra said on Monday. Mr. Chandra said the draft rules under the labor codes are being finalized. He added that most States were in the process of framing their rules and some, including U.P., Punjab, and M.P., would be ready with their drafts this week.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The minimum support price (MSP) is an agricultural product price, set by the Government of India to purchase directly from the farmer. b) The MSP was earlier enforceable by law but now it is not enforceable by law.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Parliament on Monday was full of insults and empty talk, farm unions said responding to the remarks. If the government is serious about remunerative prices for farmers, then it needs to enact a law to guarantee them, and if it wishes to resume talks, then it must take steps to do so, union leaders said. The minimum support price (MSP) is an agricultural product price, set by the Government of India to purchase directly from the farmer. This is not enforceable by law. By definition, this rate is to safeguard the farmer to a minimum profit for the harvest, if the open market has a lesser price than the cost incurred. The Indian government sets the price for 23 commodities twice a year.

Q) Recently seen in the news, Dobhi – Durgapur Natural Gas Pipeline section, is part of which of the following scheme?

A. Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana B. Project “Sudoor Drishti” C. Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh Scheme D. Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project

Ans - D

Prime Minister Modi visited Haldia, West Bengal, and dedicated to the nation the LPG import terminal, 348 km Dobhi – Durgapur Natural Gas Pipeline section, which is part of the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project. He also laid the foundation stone of the second Catalytic-Isodewaxing unit of Haldia Refinery and dedicated to the nation the 4 Lane ROB-cum-Flyover at Ranichak, Haldia on NH 41. These projects will also help Haldia to grow into a major hub of export import. 350 km Dobhi-Durgapur Pipeline will directly benefit not only West Bengal but also 10 districts of Bihar and Jharkhand.

Q) India recently held a High-Level Dialogue with which of the following organizations to improve bilateral ties & further investments?

A. ASEAN B. EU C. NATO D. BRICS

Ans - B

The first India-European Union High-Level Dialogue was co-chaired by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal from India side and the European Union Executive Vice-President & Trade Commissioner Mr. Valdis Dombrovskis, from the EU side. This Dialogue

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was organized in line with the commitment made at the 15th India-EU Leader’s Summit held in July 2020.

Q) India held a Joint Working Group virtual meeting in the field of Renewable Energy with which country?

A. Singapore B. Qatar C. Bahrain D. UAE

Ans - C

The first India-Bahrain Joint Working Group meeting in the field of Renewable Energy was held in a virtual format on February 04, 2021, for promoting bilateral cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy. Both sides also agreed to forge deeper engagement in capacity building and focused cooperation between concerned agencies as well as the private sector of the two countries in this sector, particularly in the field of solar, wind, and clean hydrogen.

6. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has launched ‘Switch Delhi’ campaign to promote - A. Smart Infrastructure B. 100% household electricity C. River cleaning D. Electric vehicles

Ans - D

7. The HAL has delivered three "made in India" Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) to which of the following?

A. Indian Coast Guard B. Indian Navy C. Indian Air Force D. Indian Army

Ans - B

The helicopters are customized for coastal security. The naval version of ALH is fitted with an array of advanced sensors that can detect Mumbai terror attacks like intrusions on Indian waters. These helicopters have the latest generation avionics, indigenous low-frequency dunking sonar, full glass cockpit with integrated architecture display system, and the powerful Shakti engines.

Q) India's first geothermal field development project will be built on which city?

A. Aizawl B. Shimla C. Leh

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D. Cochin

Ans - C

ONGC will develop India's first Geothermal Field Development Project in Ladakh. The country's largest oil and gas producer ONGC has signed an MoU with the Union Territory of Ladakh and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, to develop the country's first Geothermal Field Development Project.

Q) Recently launched "Assom Mala" project is associated with which of the following? A. Airport upgradation B. River linking C. road infrastructure D. Education

Ans c)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched 'Asom Mala' — a programme for state highways and major district roads — at Dhekiajuli in Assam's Sonitpur district. 'Asom Mala' will provide quality inter-linkage roads between the national highways and the rural roads' network as well as facilitate seamless multi-modal transportation.

Q) With reference to the “Nai Roshni”, consider the following statements: 1. “Nai Roshni”, a scheme for Leadership Development of Minority Women by Ministry of Women and Child Development is being implemented across India. 2. The scheme provides for six days training programme followed by handholding for a period of one year.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

“Nai Roshni”, a scheme for Leadership Development of Minority Women by Ministry of Minority affairs are being implemented across India. Its aim is to empower and instill confidence in women by providing knowledge, tools, and techniques for interacting with Government systems, banks, and other institutions at all levels. This includes empowerment of the trainee women so that they become independent and confident members of society. The scheme provides for six days training programme followed by handholding for a period of one year.

Q) Consider the following statements.

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a) The new variety of marigolds developed by Bengaluru scientists can be used for extraction of crude carotene, which is mainly used in the pharmaceutical sector. b) The new variety of marigold - Arka Shubha is developed by the Hessarghatta-based Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR)

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The new variety of marigold developed by the Hessarghatta-based Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) will fetch money even if they get spoilt as it can be used for extraction of crude carotene, which is mainly used in the pharmaceutical sector. “All marigolds have a carotene content of up to 1.4%. However, the Arka Shubha variety of marigold has a carotene content of 2.8%, which is the highest content from a plant source,” said Dr. Tejaswini P., principal scientist in the IIHR’s Division of Floriculture and Medicinal Plants, who led the team of scientists that developed this variety.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Koo is a Made-in-India alternative to Twitter. b) Koo was among the winners of the AatmaNirbhar App Innovation Challenge.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Amid the ongoing tussle between the government and Twitter over-blocking of content and accounts related to the farmers’ protest, Union Ministers and government departments are setting up accounts on Koo, a Made-in-India alternative to Twitter. Koo, which is similar to Twitter, was among the winners of the government’s AatmaNirbhar App Innovation Challenge last year. The platform recently raised $4.1 million from a clutch of investors, including an entity backed by former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai, Accel Partners, Kalaari Capital, Blume Ventures, and Dream Incubator.

Q) With reference to the glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) consider the following statements: 1. A GLOF refers to the flooding that occurs when the water dammed by a glacier or a moraineis released suddenly.

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2. Unlike earthen dams, the weak structure of the moraine dam leads to the abrupt failure of the dam on top of the glacial lake, which holds a large volume of water.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

A glacier break is suspected to have caused the flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli. When glaciers melt, the water in glacial lakes accumulates behind loose, natural “glacial/moraine dams” made of ice, sand, pebbles, and ice residue. A GLOF refers to the flooding that occurs when the water dammed by a glacier or a moraine is released suddenly. Unlike earthen dams, the weak structure of the moraine dam leads to the abrupt failure of the dam on top of the glacial lake, which holds a large volume of water.

Q) A species named Brookesia nana is found by a scientist team of Germany & Madagascar which is thought to be the smallest species of which animal Kingdom?

A. Aves B. Reptile C. Nematode D. Anthropoda

Ans - B

A chameleon discovered in the island country of Madagascar by scientists from Germany and Madagascar may be the world’s smallest adult reptile. The discovery has been reported in the journal Scientific Reports. The team found one male and one female of the species, named Brookesia nana, during an expedition in 2012. The male has a length (snout to vent) of 13.5 mm and a total length of 21.6 mm when the tail is included.

Q) The controversial 1,200 km pipeline project called Nord Stream 2 is between which two countries? A. Hungary & Ukraine B. Germany & China C. Germany & Russia D. Sweden & Russia

Ans - C

In 2015, Gazprom and 5 other European energy firms decided to build Nord Stream 2, valued at around $11 billion. The 1,200 km pipeline will run from Russia to Germany. The pipeline falls in German and Danish territory and all but 150 km of pipes for the project have already been laid.

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Nord Stream 2 has drawn criticism from the US, where it is believed that the project would increase Europe’s dependence on Russia for natural gas, thus boldening its President Vladimir Putin. Currently, EU countries already rely on Russia for 40% of their gas needs.

Q) The defense ministry has signed a contract with which of the following organizations toprocure a software-defined radio tactical (SDR-Tac) ship-borne system worth over Rs 1,000 crore?

A. DRDO B. Bharat Dynamics Limited C. Bharat Electronics Limited D. HAL

Ans - C

The defense ministry has signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to procure a software-defined radio tactical (SDR-Tac) ship-borne system worth over Rs 1,000 crore. The procurement of SDR-Tac (software-defined radio tactical) “will bring strategic depth to the armed forces. The SDR-Tac is a four-channel multi-mode, multi-band, 19-inch rack-mountable, ship-borne software-defined radio system to serve ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore, and ship-to-air voice and data communication for network-centric operations. Bharat Electronics Limited Headquarters: Bengaluru. Bharat Electronics Limited Founded: 1954.

Q) The Uttar Pradesh Government has introduced a system of issuing a unique 16-digit Unicode to identify what?

A. Bank Accounts B. Landholdings C. Vehicle Insurance D. Mobile Phone users

Ans - B

The main purpose of the system is to check the cases of land disputes, put an end to fake registries of the disputed land and save people from falling into the trap of fraudsters. Every piece of land in the state will have its own unique identity. The Unicode would be issued by the state revenue department for marking all kinds of agricultural, residential, and commercial land.

Q) Which Indian cricket player won the inaugural ICC Player of the Month in January 2021?

A. Virat Kohli B. Shubhman Gill C. Washington Sundar D. Rishabh Pant

Ans - D

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The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has won the inaugural ICC Player of the Month award 2021. Pant has been honored for his superlative performances in the two Tests against Australia in January 2021, wherein he scored a 97 at Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at Brisbane, leading India to an incredible series win.

Q) Israel's Elbit Systems Electro-Optics Elop Ltd. has signed an agreement with which Indian PSU for the supply of Digital Overhead Head-Up Display Systems (DOHS)?

A. HAL B. DRDO C. BDL D. BEL

Ans - A

State-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) on Monday said it has entered into an agreement with Elbit Systems Electro-Optics Elop Ltd., Israel, for the supply of Digital Overhead Head-Up Display Systems (DOHS) during the recently concluded Aero India-2021. The Digital Overhead HUDs will be initially manufactured in the existing facility of HAL's Division at Korwa. It said a dedicated facility will be augmented progressively in proportion to manufacturing volume.

Q) Dhekiajuli is associated with which of the following movements?

A. Non-Cooperation Movement B. Civil Disobedience Movement C. Khilafat Movement D. Quit India Movement

Ans - D

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a visit to the historic “martyr” town of Dhekiajuli in Assam, to lay the foundation stone for two medical colleges and launch a road and highway project. Dhekiajuli is associated with the Quit India Movement of 1942 Dhekiajuli was home to possibly the youngest martyr of the Indian freedom struggle. On September 20, 1942, as part of the Quit India movement, processions of freedom fighters marched to various police stations across several towns in Assam.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) INS Viraat was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 12 May 1987 and served for almost 30 years. b) Viraat was formally decommissioned on 6 March 2017 as the last British-built ship serving with the Indian Navy, she was the oldest aircraft carrier in service in the world.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only

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B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered status quo on the dismantling of the Navy’s decommissioned aircraft carrier, INS Viraat. A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Sharad A. Bobde issued notice to the Union of India and Shree Ram Group of Industries, who were arraigned as respondents in the special leave petition filed by Envitech Marine Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Vishnukant Sharma, and Rupali Vishnukant Sharma.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake is an endorheic lake spanning eastern Ladakh and West Tibet. b) Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake will be the first transboundary wetland in South Asia under the convention Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

China’s military announced on Wednesday that frontline troops of India and China had begun disengaging in a “synchronized and organised” manner from the north and south banks of Pangong lake, where both sides have been locked in a stand-off for months which, an official a source in Delhi said, was the first step in the long process of disengagement and de-escalation.

Q) With reference to the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), consider the following statements: 1. It is a central sector scheme. 2. It aims to set up new State Government AYUSH Educational Institutions in the States where it is not available in Government Sector.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

Central Government is implementing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National AYUSH Mission

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(NAM) through States/UTs for development and promotion of AYUSH systems of medicine including the Ayurvedic system. The Mission inter-alia makes the following provisions for the promotion of AYUSH systems including Ayurvedic system: Co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Districts Hospitals (DHs). Up-gradation of exclusive State Government AYUSH Hospitals and Dispensaries.

Q) India has signed an MoU with which country for the construction of the Calendar “Shatoot” Dam? A. Bhutan B. Uzbekistan C. Afghanistan D. Ethiopia

Ans - C

India and Afghanistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU over video-teleconferencing (VTC), for the construction of the Shahtoot Dam (Lalander Dam) on a tributary of the Kabul river in Afghanistan. The project, which costs nearly $ 300 million, is a part of the New Development Partnership between India and Afghanistan.

Q) The first women team inducted in CoBRA Commando Unit belongs to which of the following?

A. CISF B. CRPF C. ITBP D. BSF

Ans - B

A maiden contingent of 34 CRPF women personnel has been inducted into its specialized jungle warfare commando force CoBRA. The contingent will soon be deployed in the anti-Naxal operations grid of the country. This women’s contingent will undergo pre-induction training for 3 months and then deployed with the units in Naxal violence-affected districts of Chhattisgarh like Dantewada, Sukma, and Bijapur. The members of the 34 CRPF women personnel contingent have been chosen from the 6 all-women battalions of CRPF.

Q) The 14th International Children’s Film festival concluded in which country?

A. Bangladesh B. China C. Nepal D. Indonesia

Ans - A

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The 14th International Children’s Film Festival of Bangladesh (ICFFB) came to an end in Dhaka. A total of 12 awards were presented to the winners at the concluding ceremony. 179 films from 37 countries were shown at various venues during the 7-day long festival organised by the Children’s Film Society (CFS) of Bangladesh.

Q) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been chosen as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) & she would be the first woman as well as the first African nation to lead the organization. Which country does she hail from? A. Egypt B. Chad C. Kenya D. Nigeria

Ans - D

Nigerian economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been chosen as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). She would be the first woman as well as the first African nation to lead the organization. Okonjo-Iweala, the former finance minister of Nigeria, will succeed Roberto Azevedo, who stepped down in August 2020.

8. Which country has recently suspended diplomatic relations with Myanmar citing a military coup?

A. Norway B. New Zealand C. Poland D. Netherlands

Ans - B

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Tuesday that the government will suspend all high-level political and military contact with Myanmar. New Zealand will also impose a travel ban on Myanmar’s military leaders, and ensure its aid programme to the country will not include projects that are delivered with, or benefit, the military government.

Q) Which airport has won the "Voice of the Customer" award?

A. Jaipur International Airport B. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport C. Kempegowda International Airport D. Delhi International Airport

Ans c)

The Bangalore International Airport Limited's (BIAL) has bagged global recognition from the Airports Council International World's 'Voice of the Customer award. The 'Voice of the Customer' recognizes airports that continued to prioritize their customers and remained committed to ensuring that their voice was heard during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

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Q) Recently seen in the news, ICAR-National Research Centre (NRC) for Makhana is located in:

A. Darbhanga B. Shillong C. Guwahati D. Shimla

Ans - A

The Union Minister of Agriculture informed the Lok Sabha about the National Research Centre for Makhana. ICAR-National Research Centre (NRC) for Makhana, Darbhanga (Bihar) was sanctioned by the Department of Agricultural Research & Education, Govt. of India, as a new scheme during the IX Five Year Plan period (1997–2002) for Conservation, Research & Development of the Makhana crop.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Plant is a 520 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project being constructed in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, India. b) It is being constructed on the Dhauliganga River

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Rescue operations at the NTPC’s Tapovan hydel project tunnel in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, where about 35 workers were trapped after a snow avalanche triggered flash floods on Sunday, continued on Thursday. There was, however, a brief halt due to reports of an increase in the water level of the Dhauliganga river, on which the project is built. The Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Plant is a 520 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project being constructed on Dhauliganga River in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, India. The plant is expected to generate over 2.5 TWh of electricity annually.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

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Q) Consider the following statements: a) U.S. President Joe Biden announced sanctions against Myanmar’s Generals and demanded they relinquish power. b) European Union Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell has also warned the bloc could impose fresh sanctions on Myanmar’s military.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Anti-coup protesters on Thursday took to the streets of Myanmar for a sixth consecutive day, after U.S. President Joe Biden announced sanctions against the Southeast Asian nation’s Generals and demanded they relinquish power. There has been an outpouring of anger and defiance since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi last week and detained her along with other senior figures of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party. European Union Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell has also warned the bloc could impose fresh sanctions on Myanmar’s military.

Q) With reference to the privatization of banks, consider the following statements: 1. The Union Budget has announced the privatization of two public sector banks (in addition to IDBI Bank) and one general insurance company in the upcoming fiscal. 2. In 2019, the government merged ten PSU banks into four.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Union Budget has announced the privatization of two public sector banks (in addition to IDBI Bank) and one general insurance company in the upcoming fiscal. It also announced a strategic sale/disinvestment policy for four strategic sectors — including banking, insurance, and financial services — in which it will have a “bare minimum presence”. In 2015, the government had suggested privatization but the then RBI Governor did not favor the idea. Years of capital injections and governance reforms have not been able to improve the financial position of public sector banks significantly. Many of them have higher levels of stressed assets than private banks and also lag the latter on profitability, market capitalization, and dividend payment record.

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Q) Which Arabic country has become the 5th country in the world to successfully reach Mars?

A. Saudi Arabia B. UAE C. Qatar D. Bahrain

Ans - B

The United Arab Emirates’ first mission to Mars entered the orbit of the red planet, seven months after the Emirati-built ‘Hope Probe’ was launched from Tanegashima in Japan. With this, the UAE has become the fifth country after the US, Russia, China, the EU, and India, to reach the Martian orbit. The unmanned spacecraft is called ‘Al-Amal’ — the Arabic word for hope. The historic event was timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the unification of the UAE’s seven emirates.

Q) The Indian Army has laid the foundation stone of the tallest (100 feet tall) ‘Iconic National Flag’ at a famous ski resort in which place?

A. Gandhinagar, Gujarat B. Gangtok, Sikkim C. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir D. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Ans - C

The Indian Army has laid the foundation stone of the tallest ‘Iconic National Flag’ at the famous ski-resort of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir. The flag will be on a 100 feet-high pole, the highest Tricolour in the Valley. The Indian Army in collaboration with the Solar Industry India will install the ‘Iconic National Flag’ at Gulmarg.

Q) Who has approved “Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha” in which Rs 5,000 will be provided to 1,000 meritorious students of Class 9 in schools of the area as a science scholarship?

A. Union Cabinet B. Delhi Cabinet C. Rajasthan Govt D. Kerala Govt

Ans - B The Delhi cabinet has approved “Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha” in which Rs 5,000 will be provided to 1,000 meritorious students of Class 9 in schools of Delhi as a science scholarship. The scholarship will provide a boost to science education in secondary classes at the school level.

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Q) Which place has officially been declared as the 31st district of Karnataka?

A. Vijaynagara B. Ballari C. Kotturu D. Hoovina Hadagali

Ans - A

The Karnataka government issued an official gazette notification to declare Vijayanagara as the 31st district of the state. The new district has been carved out of Ballari and named after the Vijayanagara empire that ruled from this region. The Vijayanagara district will have six taluks and its headquarter will be at Hosapete. The other taluks in the new district are Kudligi, Hagaribommana Halli, Kotturu, Hoovina Hadagali, and Harapanahalli. The iconic cluster of monuments at Hampi or Hampe, a UNESCO world heritage site, will be part of the Vijaynagara.

Q) Which State Govt has recently decided to construct a "COVID Warrior Memorial"?

A. Kerala B. Maharashtra C. Odisha D. Madhya Pradesh

Ans - C

The Odisha government said Monday that it will construct Covid Warrior Memorial at a public park in Bhubaneswar in recognition of the sacrifice and services of Covid warriors. More than 60 Covid warriors including health workers in Odisha have succumbed to coronavirus. The state government plans to inaugurate the memorial on August 15 this year.

9. Indian Navy's TROPEZ-21 exercise is underway in the Indian Ocean Region. What kind of exercise is this?

A. Invasion exercise B. Interception exercise C. Combat-readiness exercise D. Joint collaboration exercise

Ans - C

The Navy’s largest war game, the biennial Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEZ-21), with the participation of all its operational units as well as those of the Army, Air Force and the Coast Guard has completed the weapon work-up phase and the tactical scenario the phase was underway, the Navy said on Wednesday. The exercise that began in early January will culminate in February third week.

Q) With reference to the Koo App, consider the following statements: 1. It won the government’s Atmanirbhar App Innovation Challenge

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2. It was launched in 2016.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Days AFTER the Centre asked Twitter to “suspend or block” nearly 1,200 accounts, citing “misinformation and provocative content” on the farmers’ protest, several ministers and departments of the Union government have started flocking on Koo App — a homemade version of the social networking platform. The microblogging site was co-founded by entrepreneurs Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidwatka. Radhakrishna had founded online cab booking service TaxiForSure, which was subsequently sold to Ola Cabs. While the app was launched in early 2020, its participation and the subsequent winning of the government’s Atmanirbhar App Innovation Challenge brought it under the limelight.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The Padmanabhaswamy temple is a Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the the state capital of Kerala, India b) The temple is built in an intricate fusion of the Chera style and the Dravidian style of architecture

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The administrators of Kerala's Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, one of the richest in India, informed the Supreme Court on Friday that its closure during the pandemic resulted in a “financial crunch”. The dent left by the virus is such that the temple, for the time being, is unable to pay the State of Kerala the ₹11.7 crores owed in “upkeep” expenses.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The population above 50 years of age and those with co-morbidities in the 20 to 50 age group are scheduled to start receiving the COVID-19 vaccine from March b) Vaccination for COVID-19 is not voluntary.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

The population above 50 years of age and those with co-morbidities in the 20 to 50 age group are scheduled to start receiving the COVID-19 vaccine from March, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Director Randeep Guleria said on Friday.

He was replying to questions related to the COVID-19 vaccination drive at an interactive programme organized by the Health Ministry.

Q) With reference to the “Udyanotsav” of Rashtrapati Bhavan, consider the following statements: 1. The gardens are a blend of the Mughal and English style of gardening and is inspired by the Persian Charbagh style. 2. It is open to the public every year in February-March under the event called the Udyanotsav.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, will open the annual “Udyanotsav” of Rashtrapati Bhavan on February 12, 2021. The Mughal Gardens will remain open for the general public from February 13, 2021, to March 21, 2021. The Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is flanked by the iconic Mughal gardens — spread over 15 acres. The gardens are a blend of the Mughal and English style of gardening and is inspired by the Persian Charbagh style. It is replete with canals, fountains, elaborate flower beds, well-trimmed shrubs, and a near-endless variety of flowers. A part of the gardens — comprising the Herbal Garden, the Bonsai Garden, the main Mughal Garden, the Spiritual

Q) The Meghalaya Police has signed an MoU with which bank for the implementation of the e-Challan within the jurisdiction of the Shillong Traffic Police (STP)?

A. Reserve Bank of India B. State Bank of India C. Canara Bank

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D. Bank of India

Ans - B

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Meghalaya police and the State Bank of India for implementation of the e-Challan within the jurisdiction of the Shillong Traffic Police (STP). The e-Challan system which will be launched in the days to come is a digital traffic enforcement solution whereby, imposing penalties on violators of traffic rules and generating of challan will be done digitally.

Q) Which international bank has committed to invest USD 100 million (Rs 727.6 crore), into the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF) Fund of Funds (FoF)?

A. World Bank B. International Monetary Fund C. Asian Development Bank D. New Development Bank

Ans - D

The New Development Bank (NDB) has committed to invest USD 100 million (Rs 727.6 crore), into the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF) Fund of Funds (FoF). With NDB’s investment, the total commitments secured by the FoF has reached $800 million (about Rs 5,820 crore). This investment marks NDB’s first equity investment into India and its first-ever investment into a Fund of Funds.

Q) On which day will the 2021 Lunar New Year be celebrated? A. 11th February B. 12th February C. 13th February D. 14th February

Ans - B

The Lunar New year or Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival is an extravagant holiday that brings and family together in several Asian countries. The festival marks the togetherness of the family. Lunar New Year 2021 falls on February 12. According to the Chinese zodiac animal, it's the year of the Ox, it will be a metal Ox year. The Lunar Year this time is being celebrated amidst the COVID-19 pandemic with full precautions in place.

Q) The 40th INCA International Congress was recently held in which city? A. Kolkata B. Chennai C. Bengaluru D. Mumbai

Ans - A

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National Atlas & Thematic Mapping Organisation (NATMO), under the Ministry of Science & Technology is organising 3 days 40th INCA International Congress from 10th February 2021 in Kolkata. keeping in view the pandemic situations, this Congress is being held both in physical and virtual mode, keeping in view the pandemic situations. The focal theme of the 40th INCA International Congress is ‘Digital Mapping Innovations in Make India Initiatives’. About 500 experts from all over the country as well as from abroad are participating in this Congress to deliver their research-oriented findings on the focal theme.

Q) The "Sweet Revolution" is in news these days. Which of the following aims to achieve the goal of the Sweet Revolution in India? A. National Food Security Mission B. Indian Sugar Mills Association C. National Beekeeping & Honey Mission D. None of the above

Ans - C

National Beekeeping & Honey Mission aims to achieve the goal of ‘Sweet Revolution’ as part of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan. The mission was announced as part of the AatmaNirbhar Bharat scheme. NBHM aims for the overall promotion & development of scientific beekeeping in the country to achieve the goal of ‘Sweet Revolution’ which is being implemented through the National Bee Board (NBB).

Q) The fossil of the world's oldest animal is found in which Indian State?

A. Andhra Pradesh B. Madhya Pradesh C. Uttar Pradesh D. Himachal Pradesh

Ans - B

Hidden in plain sight, one of the rarest fossils in the world may have been discovered in the fascinating Bhimbetka rock shelters, a Unesco site about 40km from Bhopal. Researchers believe they have found the first-ever fossil in India of a Dickinsonia —the Earth’s 'oldest animal', dating back 570 million years, on the roof of what’s called the ‘Auditorium Cave’ at Bhimbetka.

Q) NTPC’s Tapovan hydel project tunnel is located in:

A. Himachal Pradesh B. Uttarakhand C. Sikkim D. Ladakh

Ans - B

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Rescue operations resumed at the NTPC’s Tapovan hydel project tunnel in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, where about 35 workers were trapped after a snow avalanche triggered flash floods. The Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Plant is a 520 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project being constructed on Dhauliganga River in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. The plant is expected to generate over 2.5 TWh of electricity annually. Tapovan Vishnugad is NTPC's second hydropower project since its foray into the sector.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of the South Coal Berth at Cochin Port, b) He also rolled off vessels to be operated between Bolgatty and Willingdon Island in Kerala.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the five projects launched in Kochi would strengthen the growth trajectory of the country. Mr. Modi dedicated the nation to the Propylene Derivative Petrochemical Project of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, launched the roll-on, roll-off vessels to be operated between Bolgatty and Willingdon Island and inaugurated the Sagarika International Cruise Terminal. He laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of the South Coal Berth at Cochin Port, besides opening the Marine Engineering Training Institute.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The China’s Hope Probe sent back its first image of Mars after the spacecraft successfully entered the Red Planet’s orbit. b) The mission Hope Probe is designed to reveal the secrets of Martian weather

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

The UAE’s Hope Probe sent back its first image of Mars, the national space agency said Sunday, days after the spacecraft successfully entered the Red Planet’s orbit. The mission is

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designed to reveal the secrets of Martian weather, but the UAE also wants it to serve as an inspiration for the region’s youth. Hope became the first of three spacecraft to arrive at the Red Planet this month after China and the U.S. also launched missions in July, taking advantage of a period when the Earth and Mars are nearest.

Q) Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav is the flagship festival of which of the following Union Ministry?

A. Ministry of Culture B. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare C. Ministry of Finance D. Ministry of Tourism

Ans - A

11th edition of ‘Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav' to be inaugurated on 14th February 2021 at Cooch Behar Palace at Cooch Behar in West Bengal. Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav is the flagship festival of this Ministry of culture. It is organized since 2015 with the active participation of Seven Zonal Culture Centres and has been playing a pivotal role to take the vibrant culture of India out to the masses instead of confining it to auditoria and galleries. It has been instrumental in showcasing, folk and tribal art, dance, music, cuisines & culture of one state in other states.

Q) Which state has launched the Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully (‘SAANS’) campaign?

A. Kerala B. Uttar Pradesh C. Madhya Pradesh D. Maharashtra

Ans - C

The health department in Madhya Pradesh has launched the Social Awareness and Action to Neutralize Pneumonia Successfully (‘SAANS’) campaign. The main purpose of the campaign is to reduce the death rate due to pneumonia among infants. A strategy is being chalked out under the Social awareness campaign in which medical staff is being trained.

Q) Which State has launched a water conservation campaign called ‘Jalabhishekam’, under which more than 57,000 water structures have been constructed?

A. Madhya Pradesh B. West Bengal C. Rajasthan D. Odisha

Ans - A

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The state government of Madhya Pradesh has launched a water conservation campaign called ‘Jalabhishekam’, under which more than 57,000 water structures have been constructed. The campaign was inaugurated by the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually.

Q) The Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) will provide USD 400 million to which country through Line of Credit (LoC) to fund the Greater Male Connectivity Project?

A. Sri Lanka B. Maldives C. Bangladesh D. Nepal Ans - B

The Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) will provide USD 400 million to the Maldives through Line of Credit (LoC) to fund the Greater Male Connectivity Project. The agreement under the LoC will be effective from January 28, 2021.

Q) Indian Govt and Chhattisgarh Govt has signed a $100 million for CHIRAAG (Chhattisgarh Inclusive Rural and Accelerated Agriculture Growth) project with which international bank?

A. World Bank B. International Monetary Fund C. Asian Development Bank D. New Development Bank

Ans - A

Indian Govt and Chhattisgarh Govt has signed a $100 million for CHIRAAG (Chhattisgarh Inclusive Rural and Accelerated Agriculture Growth) project with the World bank. The main purpose is to develop sustainable production systems that allow tribal households in remote areas of Chhattisgarh to practice round-the-year production of diversified and nutritious food.

Q) DIVYA-DRISHTI 2021: INDIAN ARMY'S NATIONAL SEMINAR-CUM-WEBINAR is in the news these days. Who organized it?

A. SSS Defense B. DRDO C. Tata Groups D. Centre for Land Warfare Studies

Ans - D

Indian Army National Seminar-cum-Webinar, named as Divya-Drishti 202 on Multi-Domain Operations: Future of Conflicts was organized by the Centre for Land Warfare Studies, CLAWS today. Divya-Drishti 2021, meaning divine or cognitive perception required for an informed vision, aimed to bring together national and international experts and practitioners to deliberate on the complex and emerging subject on multi-domain operations.

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Q) Recently, the ISRO has collaborated with which of the following to compete against Google Maps?

A. Geolink Survey B. Gridline Surveys C. Accurate Maps D. MapMyIndia

Ans - D

The Indian Space Research Organisation has entered into an agreement with MapmyIndia to develop mapping and other location-based services in India, which MapmyIndia suggested could become an alternative to widely-used Google maps and similar products.

Q) With reference to the Vembanad lake, consider the following statements: 1. It is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in the state of Kerala. 2. It is the largest Ramsar site in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Authorities have initiated preliminary steps to demolish the illegally constructed villas of Kapico Kerala Resorts Private Limited on Nediya Thuruthu island in Vembanad Lake. Vembanad (Vembanad Kayal or Vembanad Kol) is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in the state of Kerala. With an area of 2033 square kilometers, it is the second-largest Ramsar site in India only after the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Spanning several districts in Kerala, it is known as Vembanadu Lake in Kottayam, Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha and Kochi Lake in Kochi.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India, operated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) b) It employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for making toll payments

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

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Ans - C

The Point of Sale of FASTags near the Kherki Daula toll plaza had an unusual rush of commuters on Monday. People were seen queuing up to get the tag installed on their vehicles as the NHAI has made digital payments through FASTags at toll plazas mandatory from February 16. FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India, operated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). It employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for making toll payments directly from the prepaid or savings account linked to it or directly from the toll owner. It is affixed on the windscreen of the vehicle and enables it to drive through toll plazas without stopping for transactions.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Giant Leatherback turtles are found in all oceans except the Arctic and the Antarctic, and within the Indian Ocean, they nest only in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands b) They are also listed in Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

Proposals for tourism and port development in the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Islands have conservationists worried over the fate of some of the most important nesting populations of the Giant Leatherback turtle in this part of the Indian Ocean. The largest of the seven species of sea turtles on the planet and also the most long-ranging, Leatherbacks are found in all oceans except the Arctic and the Antarctic. Within the Indian Ocean, they nest only in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and are also listed in Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, according it the highest legal protection.

Q) With reference to the Arjun Main Battle Tank project, consider the following statements: 1. It was initiated by DRDO in 1972 with the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) as its lead laboratory. 2. The latest version is 90 percent indigenous content against the 41 percent in the earlier model.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

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Ans - A

Prime Minister Modi handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A) to the Indian Army at a ceremony in Chennai. The army will get 118 units of the Main Battle Tank, indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured by CVRDE and DRDO along with 15 academic institutions, eight labs, and several MSMEs. The Arjun Main Battle Tank project was initiated by DRDO in 1972 with the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) as its lead laboratory. Mass production began in 1996 at the Indian Ordnance Factory’s production facility in Avadi, Tamil Nadu. The Indian Army received the first batch of 16 tanks in 2004 and they were inducted as a squadron of the 43 Armoured Regiment. In 2009, the first Arjun regiment of the Indian Army had 45 tanks.

Q) Which Ministry has launched India’s first-ever diesel tractor, converted to a much cleaner (compressed natural gas) CNG variant?

A. Ministry of Environment B. Ministry of Commerce C. Ministry of Road and Transport D. Ministry of Rural Development

Ans - C

Union road transport and highways minister, Nitin Gadkari has launched India’s first-ever diesel tractor, converted to a much cleaner (compressed natural gas) CNG variant. With this, farmers will be able to save more than ₹1 trillion annually on fuel costs, which will help them to improve their livelihood.

Q) Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with which company to promote wooden toys, local artifacts, handicrafts?

A. Flipkart B. Amazon C. Snapdeal D. None of the above

Ans - A

Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with Flipkart to promote wooden toys, local artifacts, handicrafts. Maharashtra Small Industries Development Corporation and Maharashtra State Khadi & Village Industries Board have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Flipkart.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

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Q) Which Union Territory has launched a campaign titled “Zero Covid by Feb28” to ensure that there are no COVID-19 cases by the end of February 2021?

A. Daman & Diu B. Puducherry C. Andaman and Nicobar Islands D. Lakshadweep Islands

Ans b)

In Puducherry, a campaign has been launched titled “Zero Covid by Feb28” to ensure that there are no COVID-19 cases by the end of February 2021, in the union territory. The overall the caseload in Puducherry was 39,448 while 38,533 had recovered so far, leaving 258 active cases.

Q) The three-day famous “Mandu Festival” has begun in which State?

A. Assam B. Maharashtra C. Uttar Pradesh D. Madhya Pradesh

Ans - D

The three-day famous “Mandu Festival” began at the historic town of Mandu in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh on February 13, 2021. The festival will culminate on February 15, 2021. The festival is organized by the state government of Madhya Pradesh to showcase each and every aspect of the ancient Mandu city, ranging from food, music, history & heritage, art & craft, etc.

Q) Which Ministry has launched the Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship (MGNF) programme in partnership with nine Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) across India? A. Ministry of Education B. Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship C. Ministry of Corporate Affairs D. Ministry of Women and Child Development

Ans b)

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has launched the Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship (MGNF) programme in partnership with nine Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) across India. Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey chaired the event on ‘Transforming skilling through strategic partnerships under SANKALP’ and rolled out the MGNF and other initiatives.

Q) PM Modi has handed over the indigenous Arjun Mk-1A to the Army in a function at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai. What is Arjun Mk-1A?

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A. Cruise missile B. Radar C. Battle tank D. Assault rifle

Ans - C

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has handed over the indigenous main battle tank Arjun Mk-1A to the Army in a function at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai. Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Mukund Naravane received the model of the tank, designed and developed by Chennai-based Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), a unit of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).

Q) With reference to the Mandarin duck, consider the following statements: 1. It is a “small-exotic looking bird” native to East Asia. 2. Its IUCN Status is Endangered.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Floating in the Maguri-Motapung beel (or wetland) in Assam’s Tinsukia district for over a week is the spectacular and rare Mandarin duck. First spotted on February 8 by Madhab Gogoi, the duck has since become the star of the wetland. Considered the most beautiful duck in the world, the Mandarin duck, or the (Aix galericulata) was first identified by Swedish botanist, physician and zoologist Carl Linnaeus in 1758. It is a “small-exotic looking bird” native to East Asia. The migratory duck breeds in Russia, Korea, Japan and northeastern parts of China, explained Gogoi. It now has established populations in Western Europe and America too. The duck, however, rarely visits India as it does not fall in its usual migratory route. Its IUCN status is Least Concern.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code lays down the punishment for sedition. b) The Indian Penal Code was enacted in 1860, under the British Raj

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

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Ans - C

Charges of sedition “cannot be invoked to quieten the disquiet under the pretense of muzzling the miscreants”, a Delhi court observed while granting bail to a 21-year-old laborer. The youth was arrested for posting a fake video on Facebook about the Delhi police on the farmers’ agitation. Additional Sessions Judge Dharmender Rana remarked that in the absence of any exhortation, call, incitement, or instigation to create disorder or disturbance of public peace by resort to violence, the sedition law cannot be invoked against anyone.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) India has offered a grant of $12 million to execute the contract to install renewable energy systems in three small islands off Jaffna Peninsula b) Jaffna Peninsula is an area in Northern Province, Sri Lanka.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

In an apparent bid to displace a Chinese company that had won the contract to install renewable energy systems in three small islands off Jaffna Peninsula in northern Sri Lanka, India has offered a grant of $12 million to execute it, Colombo-based media reported. It remains to be seen if India’s proposal gets official clearance, but India’s swift offer comes in the wake of being ejected — along with Japan — out of the East Container Terminal (ECT) development project at the Colombo Port, following another Cabinet decision taken on February 1 this year.

Q) Sandes an instant messaging platform is an initiative of:

A. National Informatics Centre B. Facebook C. Google D. None of the above

Ans - A

The National Informatics Centre has launched an instant messaging platform called Sandes on the lines of WhatsApp. Like WhatsApp, the new NIC platform can be used for all kinds of communications by anyone with a mobile number or email id. The instant messaging app, called Sandes, has an interface similar to many other apps currently available in the market. Although there is no option to transfer the chat history between two platforms, the chats on government instant messaging systems (GIMS) can be backed up to a users’ email.

Q) The 11th Edition of ‘Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav’ inaugurated in -

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A. Maharashtra B. West Bengal C. Rajasthan D. Odisha

Ans - B

The Governor of West Bengal, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the 11th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav at Cooch Behar Palace at West Bengal. The Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav is a flagship programme of the Ministry of Culture, organized under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Programme, since 2015, to celebrate the idea of unity in diversity. The event was inaugurated in the presence of the Minister of State (I/C) for Culture and Tourism, Shri Prahlad Singh Patel.

Q) With reference to the Geo-spatial sector in India, consider the following statements:

1. Geospatial data is data about objects, events, or phenomena that have a location on the surface of the earth. 2. The Ministry of Science and Technology recently released new guidelines for the Geo- spatial sector in India, which deregulates existing protocol and liberalizes the sector to a more competitive field.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Ministry of Science and Technology recently released new guidelines for the Geo-spatial sector in India, which deregulates existing protocol and liberalizes the sector to a more competitive field. Geospatial data is data about objects, events, or phenomena that have a location on the surface of the earth. The location may be static in the short term, like the location of a road, an earthquake event, malnutrition among children, or dynamic like a moving vehicle or pedestrian, the spread of an infectious disease. Geospatial data combines location information, attribute information (the characteristics of the object, event, or phenomena concerned), and often also temporal information or the time at which the location and attributes exist.

Q) Which of the following has launched the Corporate India Risk Index?

A. Digital Insurance B. New India Assurance C. ICICI Lombard D. SBI General Insurance

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Ans - C

The Corporate Risk Index is intended to be a unified, standardised corporate risk metric that spans industries and companies. Private general insurer ICICI Lombard has launched the 'Corporate India Risk Index'. This is intended to be a unified, standardised corporate risk index that spans industries and companies.

Q) A report titled "Traffic Crash Injuries and Disabilities: a Burden on Indian Society" has been published by which of the following?

A. UNESCO B. World Health Organization C. International Labour Organisation D. World Bank

Ans - D

On February 13, 2021, the World Bank report on ‘Traffic Crash Injuries and Disabilities: The Burden on India Society’ was released by Road Transport, Highways, and MSMEs Minister Nitin Gadkari. Report is prepared in association with Save Life Foundation. The report highlights the disproportionate impact of a road crash on poor households that pushes them into a vicious cycle of poverty and debt. Report explains the links between road crashes, poverty, inequality, and vulnerable road users in India. As per the Report more than 75% of poor households in India reported a decline in its income as a result of a road traffic crash.

Q) A mobile app named Snakepedia has been launched in which of the following?

A. Madhya Pradesh B. West Bengal C. Rajasthan D. Kerala

Ans d)

Snakepedia' mobile app has been launched in Kerala to help people, doctors treat snake bites. A team of scientists, nature lovers, and doctors have come up with a mobile application 'Snakepedia' on snakes in Kerala to help the public as well as doctors to treat snake bites.

Q) India's first dolphin research centre will be set up in which of the following city?

A. Mumbai B. Lucknow C. Patna D. Chandigarh

Ans - C

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The society for the long-awaited National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) is likely to be formed within a month, officials said. Last year, chief minister Nitish Kumar had laid the foundation stone of the center, and the fund for the building was also sanctioned to the building construction department (BCD), but things could not move beyond that. The dolphin is a highly endangered species under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and was declared the National Aquatic Animal in 2009.

Q) Who among the following was appointed as the director-general of the World Trade Organization?

A. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala B. Yoo Myung-hee C. Uzodinma Iweala D. Ikemba Iweala

Ans - A

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has chosen Nigeria’s former finance minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its first female and first African leader, handing her the task of restoring trust in a rules-based global trading system. The WTO’s 164 members unanimously selected the 66-year-old development economist to serve a four-year term as director-general. The appointment came after new United States President Joe Biden endorsed her candidacy, which had been blocked by former President Donald Trump.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Plant is a 520 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project b) It is constructed on the Dhauliganga River in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Ten days after an avalanche here barrelled down from a breaking glacier leading to the death of 58 people and causing at least 200 to go missing, rescue and relief operations aimed at recovering bodies have slowed to a crawl. The Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Plant is a 520 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project being constructed on Dhauliganga River in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, India. The plant is expected to generate over 2.5 TWh of electricity annually.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The Financial Action Task Force is an intergovernmental organization with its headquarters in Geneva.

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b) Pakistan is unlikely to exit the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) ‘grey list until June

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - B

The Financial Action Task Force is an intergovernmental organization with its headquarters in Paris. Pakistan is unlikely to exit the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) ‘grey list until June, despite its efforts to garner support from the member nations ahead of the plenary meeting of the global terror financing and money laundering watchdog next week, according to a media report on Wednesday. The FATF’s Plenary and Working Group meetings, scheduled to be held from February 21 to 26 in Paris, is all set to decide on Pakistan’s grey list status. Pakistan was placed on the ‘grey list in June 2018 and given a timeline to implement 27 action points.

Q) With reference to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, consider the following statements: 1. Rashtrapati Bhavan Krida Sthal is developed with the aim to cater to the needs of the employees of Rashtrapati Bhavan and their families. 2. Lord Irwin administered the oath of Prime Minister to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru under the Central Dome of Rashtrapati Bhavan in 1947.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

The President of India inaugurated the Rashtrapati Bhavan Krida Sthal (renovated Football Ground and Basketball Court) in the President’s Estate on February 16, 2021. These state-of-art sports facilities are developed with the aim to cater to the needs of the employees of Rashtrapati Bhavan and their families. An inter-departmental football tournament with five teams namely – President’s Secretariat Heroes, Household Youngs, PBG Warriors, Army Guard Daredevils, and Delhi Police Stalwarts also started to encourage the employees and their family members to take part in the sports activities.

Q) Kiran Bedi has been removed from the post of Lieutenant Governor of - A. Andaman and Nicobar Islands B. Lakshadweep Islands

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C. Daman & Diu D. Puducherry

Ans - D

Kiran Bedi was removed from the top post last night amid a crisis in the ruling Congress government in the union territory. The Congress government has slipped into a minority after four Congress leaders resigned from the Assembly since last month.

Q) The first day of the spring called ‘Pahela Phagun’ was celebrated in which country? A. India B. Nepal C. Bangladesh D. Bhutan

Ans - C

The first day of the spring called ‘Pahela Phagun’ was celebrated in Dhaka, Bangladesh despite the continued shadow of the Corona pandemic in the country. Cultural organizations held programmes at different venues in the city to herald the beginning of the spring. Programmes were held at the Suhrawardy Udyan, Nandan Manch of Shilpakala Academy, and several other locations.

Q) Which country has overtaken the United States (US) as the biggest trading partner of the European Union (EU) in 2020, according to the data by the European Union statistics agency, Eurostat?

A. China B. Japan C. Russia D. India

Ans a)

The People’s Republic of China has overtaken the United States (US) as the biggest trading partner of the European Union (EU) in 2020, according to the data by the European Union statistics agency, Eurostat. Britain, which left the European Union in 2020, was the third-largest trading partner for the bloc, behind China and the United States.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

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Q) Which Minister has recently launched an online portal ‘e-Chhawani’ and mobile app, tofacilitate ‘ease of living’ and ‘ease of doing’ for the residents of the Cantonment Boards across the country?

A. Smriti Irani B. Rajnath Singh C. Prakash Javedkar D. Amit Shah

Ans - B

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently launched an online portal ‘e-Chhawani’ and mobile app, to facilitate ‘ease of living’ and ‘ease of doing’ for the residents of the Cantonment Boards across the country. The ‘e-Chhawani’ portal will provide online municipal services to more than 20 lakh citizens across all 62 Cantonment Boards of India while sitting at home.

Q) On 18th February, Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone of Dhubri Phulbari Bridge in which year?

A. Kerala B. Meghalaya C. Assam D. Maharashtra

Ans - C

Q) Recently the CM of which State launched a fiber optic network for free Internet access to 20 lakh families?

A. Maharashtra B. Kerala C. New Delhi D. Uttar Pradesh

Ans - B

Kerala launches a fiber optic network to provide free internet to 20 lakh families. THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : To bridge the digital divide by providing high-speed, affordable internet connectivity to every household, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday launched the KFON (Kerala Fibre Optic Network) in the state.

10. Which of the following articles of the Indian constitution states that there shall be Governor for each State?

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A. Article 153 B. Article 72 C. Article 184 D. Article 123

Ans - A

Dr. Kiran Bedi has been removed from the post of Puducherry Lieutenant Governor. Telangana Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan has been given additional charge as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. Article 153 of the Indian constitution states that there shall be Governor for each State. nothing in this article shall prevent the appointment of the same person as Governor for two or more States.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) In the QUAD meeting, U.S. statement referred to Myanmar as Burma, the name that Naypyitaw had stopped using since 1989 after a brutal crackdown against the democratic movement. b) The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue is an informal strategic forum between the United States, Japan, Australia, and India

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

India on Thursday joined Australia, Japan, and the United States for a ministerial meeting under the quadrilateral grouping during which key issues, including Myanmar, came up for discussion. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said the military takeover in Myanmar featured in the talks and participants reiterated democratic values for the region. India also emphasized in its statement that the meeting expressed commitment to “upholding rules-based international order” and “peaceful resolution of disputes”.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Elattuvalapil Sreedharan, Principal Adviser to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and popularly known as ‘Metroman’ b) He served as the managing director of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation DMRC between 1995 and 2012

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only

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C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Elattuvalapil Sreedharan, Principal Adviser to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and popularly known as ‘Metro Man is all set to join the BJP. Mr. Sreedharan, who was the chief of DMRC from 1997 to 2011, said his approach to politics would be different and that he was open to contesting the coming Assembly election if the party wanted.

Q) With reference to the National Hydrogen Mission, consider the following statements: 1. Mumbai became the first Indian city to operate buses running on hydrogen spiked compressed natural gas (H-CNG) in a six-month pilot project. 2. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issued a notification proposing amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to include safety evaluation standards for hydrogen fuelcell-based vehicles.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - B

India has announced a National Hydrogen Mission. The proposal in the Budget will be followed up with a mission draft over the next couple of months. And while proposed end-use sectors include steel and chemicals, the major industry that hydrogen has the potential of transforming is transportation — which contributes a third of all greenhouse gas emissions. In October, Delhi became the first Indian city to operate buses running on hydrogen spiked compressed natural gas (H-CNG) in a six-month pilot project. The buses will run on a new technology patented by Indian Oil Corp for producing H-CNG — 18 percent hydrogen in CNG — directly from natural gas, without resorting to conventional blending.

Q) The Chief Minister of which state has been conferred SKOCH Chief Minister of the Year Award?

A. Maharashtra B. Uttar Pradesh C. Andhra Pradesh D. Karnataka

Ans - C

The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has been conferred the Skoch

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Chief Minister of the Year Award. The Award has been presented to the CM by Chairman, Skoch Group, Sameer Kochhar personally at Tadepalli in Andhra Pradesh. The award selection was based on a study of project-level outcomes in various States.

Q) Which Ministry has launched the Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan under Jal Jeevan Mission- Urban?

A. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs B. Ministry of Rural Development C. Ministry of Railways D. Ministry of Road and Transport

Ans - A

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched the Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan under Jal Jeevan Mission- Urban. The Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan has been launched in 10 cities, which are Agra, Badlapur, Bhubaneswar, Churu, Kochi, Madurai, Patiala, Rohtak, Surat, and Tumkur. The the motive of the Jal Jeevan Mission Urban is to provide universal coverage of water supply to all households through functional taps in all 4,378 statutory towns in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal – 6.

Q) HCL Technologies has inked an agreement with which Indian Institute of Technology to collaborate in the area of cybersecurity?

A. IIT Bombay B. IIT Delhi C. IIT Roorkee D. IIT Kanpur

Ans - D

HCL Technologies has inked an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) to collaborate in the area of cybersecurity. As part of the pact, the IT company will work with C3iHub, a specialized cybersecurity research center at IITK. This collaboration will bring together the country’s brightest minds, advanced research capabilities, and global resources to develop advanced solutions in the area of cybersecurity.

Q) The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between India and which country?

A. Nepal B. Bangladesh C. Mauritius D. Maldives

Ans - C

The India-Mauritius CECPA will be the first trade agreement to be signed by India with a country

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in Africa. The Agreement is a limited agreement, which will cover Trade in Goods, Rules of Origin, Trade in Services, Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures, Dispute Settlement, Movement of Natural Persons, Telecom, Financial services, Customs Procedures and Cooperation in other Areas.

Q) PM recently launched India's first full-fledged International Cruise Terminal in which port?

A. Mumbai Port B. Kolkata Port C. Cochin Port D. Visakhapatnam Port

Ans - C

The Prime Minister said India has the ability to rise to the occasion and contribute to the global good. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the country's first full-fledged international cruise terminal, Sagarika at Cochin Port and Marine Engineering Training Institute of Cochin Shipyard Ltd.

Q) Who has become the first Indian chairperson of the Advisory Committee of Human Rights Council?

A. Ajit Malhotra B. Atul Malhotra C. Amit Malhotra D. Ajay Malhotra

Ans - D

Jai Malhotra has become the first Indian to be elected as the Chairperson of the Advisory Committee of the Human Rights Council said the Permanent Mission of India at United Nations, Geneva on Monday. Malhotra has previously served as ambassador to Russia (2011 to 2013), Kuwait (2009 to 2011), Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, New York (from 2005 to 2009) and Romania (with concurrent accreditation to Moldova and Albania) from 2003 to 2005.

Q) Which of the following articles of the Constitution of India provides that every person who is “arrested and detained in custody” has to be produced before the nearest magistrate within a period of 24 hours of the arrest?

A. Article- 22 B. Article- 20 C. Article- 24 D. Article- 25

Ans - A

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday granted transit anticipatory bail to Shantanu Shivlal Muluk

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in the Greta Thunberg toolkit case registered by the Delhi Police in connection with the ongoing protests against the three farm laws. According to Article 22 of the Constitution of India, every person who is “arrested and detained in custody” has to be produced before the nearest magistrate within a period of 24 hours of the arrest — the period excludes the time necessary for the journey from the place of arrest to the court. No person can be kept in custody beyond the period of 24 hours without an order of a magistrate. Section 56 of the CrPC states that the person arrested has to be taken before the magistrate without unnecessary delay.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Mars 2020 is a Mars rover mission by NASA's Mars Exploration Program that includes the rover Perseverance and the small robotic helicopter Ingenuity. b) Perseverance will investigate an astro biologically relevant ancient environment on Mars and investigate its surface geological processes and history.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

First shot The shadow of NASA’s Perseverance rover is seen on the surface of Mars as it lands on the planet. With this, NASA is set to become the first space agency to fly a drone in the atmosphere of another planet. Mars 2020 is a Mars rover mission by NASA's Mars Exploration Program that includes the rover Perseverance and the small robotic helicopter Ingenuity. Mars 2020 was launched from Earth on an Atlas V launch vehicle at 11:50:00 UTC on 30 July 2020

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is an agreement on the Iranian nuclear program reached in Vienna on 14 July 2015, between Iran and the P5+1 members together with the European Union.. b) P5+1 includes the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council —China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States + Japan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

P5+1 includes the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council —China,

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France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States + Germany.

Q) With reference to the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) guidelines for sugar mills, consider the following statements: 1. To control the constant slide in ex-mill prices of sugar, the central government had in June 2018 specified the concept of MSP for sugar. 2. Along with MSP, the centre had also fixed mill wise sales quota.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution issued separate guidelines for sugar mills and cane commissioners in regards to sale of sugar below the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of Rs 3,100/- per quintal. To control the constant slide in ex-mill prices of sugar, the central government had in June 2018 specified the concept of MSP for sugar. Back then the MSP was fixed at Rs 2,850/- per quintal which was subsequently raised to Rs 3,100/- per quintal. Along with MSP, the centre had also fixed mill wise sales quota.

Q) Which city has won a green contest among cities in India, and emerged one of the ‘Tree Cities of the World?

A. Rourkela B. Indore C. Hyderabad D. Lucknow

Ans - C

That title has been bestowed by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Hyderabad has been selected for its commitment to growing and maintaining urban forestry under the State government’s Haritha Haram programme and its Urban Forest Parks plan. With the recognition, the city joins 120 others from 23 countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Australia.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

71 TELEGRAM LINK: https://t.me/opdemy WEBSITE: www.opdemy.com

Q) Dhubri-Phulbari bridge is the longest bridge of India in -

A. Mizoram B. Tamil Nadu C. Kerala D. Assam

Ans - D

The Dhubri - Phulbari Bridge is a proposed bridge over the Brahmaputra River between Assam and Meghalaya in North-East India. The Dhubri - Phulbari bridge, planned to be completed by 2026–27, would be India’s longest bridge over water and would span more than 19 km.

Q) Which Government has launched the development work for the SAMALEI Project (Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiatives), to offer the divine experience to tourists & devotees?

A. Maharashtra B. Uttar Pradesh C. Rajasthan D. Odisha

Ans - D

The state government of Odisha, under Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has launched the development work for the SAMALEI Project (Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiatives), to offer the divine experience to tourists & devotees. The project involves the development of 108 acres of land in & around the 16th-century shrine of Maa Samaleswari, the presiding deity of western Odisha.

Q) World Day of Social Justice is observed on -

A. 19th February B. 20th February C. 21st February D. 22nd February

Ans - B

World Day of Social Justice is an international day recognizing the need to promote social, justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender equality, unemployment, human rights, and social protections.

Q) Which of the following have decided to launch a World Solar Bank? A. International Solar Energy Society B. International Energy Agency C. International Energy Group

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D. International Solar Alliance

Ans - D

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) plans to launch the World Solar Bank (WSB) at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, a top ISA official said, a development that will support India’s attempt to secure leadership in the climate arena. The ISA is the first treaty-based international government organization headquartered in India.

Q) The Cabinet recently approved a Rs. 12,195 crore worth Production Linked Scheme for whichsector?

A. Telecom Sector B. Banking Sector C. Retail Sector D. Transportation Sector

Ans - A

India on Wednesday launched the scheme for telecommunications (telecom) and networking products, with an outlay of Rs 12,195 crore over five years. The Cabinet approved PLI for manufacturing telecom equipment, including core transmission equipment, 4G/5G next-generation radio access network and wireless equipment, access and customer premises equipment, Internet of Things-access devices, other wireless equipment, and enterprise equipment like switches, routers, etc.

Q) Which of the following organizations has received the Asia Environmental Enforcement Award-2020 awarded by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)?

A. World wide fund for nature B. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) C. The Nature Conservancy D. None of the above

Ans - B

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has received the Asia Environmental Enforcement Award-2020 awarded by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). WCCB got the award twice in three years. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has been awarded this year under the Innovation category. Earlier, the Bureau had received the award in 2018 under the same category.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The POCSO Act, 2012 is a comprehensive law to provide for the protection of children from the offenses of sexual assault. b) The act is gender-neutral for both children and for the accused.

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Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

An offense involving abuse of a child victim is unpardonable, the Delhi High Court remarked while refusing to lower the sentence awarded to a teacher, who was convicted for sodomizing a 7-year-old boy. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 was enacted to provide a robust legal framework for the protection of children from offenses of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography, while safeguarding the interest of the child at every stage of the judicial process.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) A voice vote involves the speaker putting a question to the house and then asking the house to put forward its opinion in the forms of ayes (yes) or noes. b) When a question is decided by this method, the Chairman does not announce the numbers of “Ayes” and “Noes”.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

Rule 252 provides for the first two methods. On the conclusion of a debate, the Chairman puts the question before the House and invites those who are in favor of the motion to say “Aye” and those against the motion to say “No”. Then the Chairman says: “I think the Ayes or the Noes, (as the case may be) have it”. If the opinion of the Chairman as to the decision is not challenged he says twice: “The Ayes or the Noes, (as the case may be) have it” and the question before the House is determined accordingly. This method is called voting by ‘voice vote’ and votes are not recorded. When a question is decided by this method, the Chairman does not announce the numbers of “Ayes” and “Noes”.

Q) Who among the following became the nation’s youngest pilot when she acquired her student flying license at the age of 16?

A. Zoya Agarwal B. Papagari Thanmai C. Akanksha Sonawane D. Ayesha Aziz

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Ans - D

Ayesha Aziz is emerging as a role model for Kashmir women. Ayesha Aziz became the nation’s youngest pilot when she acquired her student flying license at the age of 16. At 25 now, she flies GoAir planes. Ms. Aziz was given the First Ladies’ Award by the President of India in 2018.

Q) Which of the following has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to support the development, conduct, and promotion of health research in India?

A. ICMR B. DRDO C. CSIR D. SII

Ans - C

Gates Foundation and CSIR will work together to identify opportunities to initiate scientific and technological collaborations. These will focus on developing and testing new preventions, therapies, and interventions that can help to solve major health concerns that affect India and other developing countries.

Q) World Pangolin Day is celebrated on the ___ every year.

A. Third Saturday of February B. Third Sunday of February C. Fourth Saturday of February D. Fourth Sunday of February

Ans - A

World Pangolin Day is celebrated on the “Third Saturday of February” every year. In 2021, the annual World Pangolin Day is being celebrated on 20 February 2020. It marks the 10th edition of the event. The day aims to raise awareness about these unique mammals and speed up conservation efforts. Pangolin numbers are rapidly declining in Asia and Africa.

Q) Which Indian Naval Ship reached Abu Dhabi in UAE to participate in the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 21) and International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 21) from February 20 to 25, 2021?

A. INS Vikramaditya B. INS Khanderi C. INS Imphal D. INS Pralaya

Ans - D

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Indian Naval Ship Pralaya reached Abu Dhabi in UAE to participate in the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 21) and International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 21) from February 20 to 25, 2021. NAVDEX 21 and IDEX 21 are one of the leading international naval and defense exhibitions of the region. Participation of INS Pralaya will showcase the strengths of India’s indigenous shipbuilding, in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vis

7. India successfully test-fires Helina, Dhruvastra anti-tank guided missiles. These missiles are developed by -

A. HAL B. DRDO C. BDL D. BEL

Ans - B

Defense Research and Development Organisation has successfully carried out joint user trials of indigenously developed Helina and Dhruvastra Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) from the Advanced Light Helicopter at the Pokhran deserts in Rajasthan. Helena is the Army version and Dhruv Astra is the Air Force version of the ALH. The missile systems have been designed and developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Q) NASA's recently sent Perseverance Rover is in news these days. The rover will study the possibility of life on which crater?

A. Gale B. Huygens C. Jezero D. Masursky

Ans - C

Jezero is a crater on Mars located. The diameter of the crater is about 49.0 km. Thought to have once been flooded with water, the crater contains a fan-delta deposit rich in clays. The lake in the crater was present when valley networks were forming on Mars.

Q) Recently who won the Women Singles Title at the 82nd Senior National Table Tennis Championship?

A. Ankita Das B. Manika Batra C. Poulomi Ghatak D. Neha Aggarwal

Ans - B

India’s top-ranked table tennis player Manika Batra beat Reeth Rishya, 4-2, in the women’s

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singles final, to win the 82nd Senior National Table Tennis Championship, at the Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex in Panchkula, Haryana. It was Manika’s second Nationals title. She won her maiden national title in 2015 in Hyderabad.

Q) What is the gig economy?

A. A free market system in which temporary positions are common and organizations hire independent workers for short-term commitments. B. An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. C. A free market system in which Permanent positions are common. D. None of the above.

Ans - A

The UK Supreme Court ruled that Uber drivers were to be considered workers and not freelance contractors, thereby making them eligible for all employment-related benefits such as minimum wage, annual leaves, and insurance. With this ruling, Uber and other service providing platforms could also potentially face legal and regulatory challenges in India, as big tech companies from across the globe are under government scrutiny for the differential terms of service and engagement in geographies such as the EU and in locations such as India. The increased focus on big tech aside, the central government has already put in place some legal protection for gig economy workers.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy submitted his resignation to Lieutenant-Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan b) Pondicherry (or Puducherry), a French colonial settlement in India until 1954, is now a Union Territory town bounded by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Congress-led government in Puducherry fell on Monday after Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy submitted his resignation to Lieutenant-Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan as it became apparent that he had lost the confidence of the House.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) In three-day virtual plenary session of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Pakistan’s performance in terms of measures taken against money laundering and terror funding will be reviewed

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b) Pakistan has been in the FATF’s ‘greylist’ since June 2018 when it was presented with a 27-point action plan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

The three-day virtual plenary session of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), during which Pakistan’s performance in terms of measures taken against money laundering and terror funding will be reviewed once again, commenced on Monday. Pakistan has been in the FATF’s ‘greylist’ since June 2018 when it was presented with a 27-point action plan.

Q) Dr JB Ekka committee, recently seen in news, is related to:

A. Equal wages of small tea workers. B. Rebalancing defence expenditure. C. National security D. Food labelling standards

Ans - A

The Assam government announced that the wage of tea garden workers will be increased from Rs 167 to Rs 217 per day. Although the tea garden managements pay the wages, the government fixes it. Moreover, for equal wages of small tea workers, a one-man committee under Principal Secretary Dr JB Ekka will be formed. Coming ahead of the state elections, the announcement is important because the tea tribe community — comprising 17% of the state’s population — is a deciding factor in almost 40 Assam Assembly seats out of the 126.

Q) India recently conducted PASSEX Joint Naval Exercise in the Arabian Sea with which country?

A. Indonesia B. Vietnam C. France D. Myanmar

Ans - A

The Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy conducted the Passage Exercise (PASSEX) on February 18, 2021, in the Arabian Sea. The military exercise between the navies of both

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countries aims to enhance operational interoperability and overall cooperation among them. Indian naval ship INS Talwar and the Indonesian Navy’s multirole corvette KRI Bung Tomo participated in the exercise.

Q) Which of the following has signed a Statement of Intent with Greenstar Hydrogen India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Greenstat Norway, to set up a Centre of Excellence on Hydrogen?

A. Hindustan Petroleum Ltd B. Gas Authority of India Ltd C. Indian Oil Corporation Ltd D. Reliance Petroleum Ltd

Ans - C

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has signed a Statement of Intent with Greenstat Hydrogen India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Greenstat Norway, to set up a Centre of Excellence on Hydrogen. Under this association, a Center of Excellence on Hydrogen (CoE-H) including CCUS and Fuel Cells, would be developed for clean energy by IndianOil and M/s Greenstat in cooperation with Indo-Norwegian Hydrogen Cluster companies/organizations.

Q) India has signed two agreements related to visa facilitation and leather technology with which country?

A. Djibouti B. Ethiopia C. Egypt D. Israel

Ans - B

India and Ethiopia signed two agreements related to visa facilitation and leather technology. The Ethiopia Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Demeke Mekonnen Hassen is on a 4-day visit to India to hold useful and productive discussions on a range of bilateral and regional issues.

Q) Which country has officially rejoined the Paris Agreement? A. The USA B. China C. Russia D. Germany

Ans - A

The United States has officially rejoined the Paris Agreement, under the Presidency of US President Joe Biden. Earlier, in November 2020, the US had officially exited the agreement on the order of then-President Donald Trump.

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Q) Which State Govt has sanctioned Rs. 9 crores to build ‘smart anganwadis’, by converting the conventional anganwadis into “smart” structures with better amenities?

A. Maharashtra B. Kerala C. Assam D. Orissa

Ans - B

The state government of Kerala has sanctioned Rs. 9 crores to build ‘smart anganwadis’, by converting the conventional anganwadis into “smart” structures with better amenities. The state Department of Women and Child Development has given permission for 48 anganwadis in the state to construct new buildings under the Smart Anganwadi scheme.

Q) The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar, inaugurated the Atal Paryavaran Bhavan at -

A. Andaman and Nicobar Islands B. Lakshadweep Islands C. Daman & Diu D. Puducherry

Ans - B Lakshadweep Capital: Kavaratti. Lakshadweep Administrator: Praful Patel.

Q) With reference to the International Mother Language Day, consider the following statements: 1. The day is observed on the 21st of February every year to preserve and promote linguistic diversity and promote mother tongue-based multilingual education. 2. UNESCO has been celebrating International Mother Language Day since 2000.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Vice President Venkaiah Naidu celebrated the International Mother Language Day. The day is observed on the 21st of February every year to preserve and promote linguistic diversity and promote mother tongue-based multilingual education. The declaration came up in tribute to the Language Movement done by the Bangladeshis (the then East Pakistanis). In Bangladesh the 21 February is the anniversary of the day when Bangladeshis fought for recognition for the Bangla language.

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UNESCO has been celebrating International Mother Language Day since 2000.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The GoI has constituted the “Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog” to organize animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and to take steps for preserving and improving breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter, of cows and calves b) The Animal Husbandry Department said the two-year-old body had “no mandate” to conduct “indigenous cow science” examination an examination.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

With the Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) having cancelled its “indigenous cow science” examination after widespread criticism about its promotion of fake claims and pseudoscience, the Animal Husbandry Department said the two-year-old body had “no mandate” to conduct such an examination. Any future awareness programme would be conducted “on a scientific basis”, a senior official overseeing the RKA told The Hindu.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 3.0 is launched to cover children and pregnant women who missed routine immunisation during the COVID-19 pandemic, b) The campaign is scheduled to have two rounds of immunisation lasting 15 days (excluding routine immunisation and holidays).

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The States and Union Territories (UTs) have rolled out the Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 3.0 scheme to cover children and pregnant women who missed routine immunisation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Health Ministry said in a release issued on Tuesday. More than 29,000 children and 5,000 pregnant women were covered on the first day, it added.

Q) Recently seen in news, Oil India Limited's Secondary Tank Farm is located at:

A. Madhuban

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B. Kollam C. Madurai D. None of the above

Ans - A

PM Modi inaugurated important Oil & Gas projects and Engineering Colleges in Assam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation INDMAX Unit at Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery, Oil India Limited's Secondary Tank Farm at Madhuban, Dibrugarh and a Gas Compressor Station at Hebeda Village, Makum, Tinsukia.

Q) In order to find solutions for water related challenges a platform called DIWALI has been developed for India and -

A. The US B. France C. Netherlands D. Germany

Ans c)

The consortium of experts from the two counties would explore the potential and sustainability of Dutch Solutions to resolve challenges in specific water challenged sites in India which are scalable, sustainable and affordable.

Q) Which country has become the 1st country with which India has recently signed an FTA? A. South Africa B. Mauritius C. Ethiopia D. Egypt

Ans b)

India signed a free trade and investment agreement with Mauritius on Tuesday, the first with any country in Africa. It was also the first time since 2011 that India was signing a free trade pact with any country.

Q) Which of the following conducted two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)?

A. DRDO B. HAL C. BDL D. BEL

Ans - A

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The launches were carried out from a static vertical launcher from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. Indigenously designed and developed by DRDO for Indian Navy, VL-SRSAM is meant for neutralizing various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets. The current launches were carried out for demonstration of vertical launch capability as part of its maiden launch campaign.

Q) Which country has launched a coronavirus “green pass” system, which allows people who have been vaccinated to access public facilities that would otherwise be off-limits?

A. The US B. Russia C. Israel D. France

Ans - C

Israelis who have gotten both Pfizer vaccine shots and those who have recovered from the virus get a “Green Pass” certificate in the form of a QR code or printout for people without smart phones. The pass allows entry to gyms, swimming pools, hotels, entertainment venues and sporting events. Green Pass privileges and restrictions are raising legal and moral questions.

Q) The 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in which State?

A. Bihar B. Jharkhand C. Chhattisgarh D. Madhya Pradesh

Ans - D

The 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh which is based on the Indian classical dance tradition. Khajuraho Temples come alive with splendour, beams, and the hustle-bustle of art lovers at the Festival. The first-day event is dedicated to Bharatanatyam performance by Geeta Chandran and her troupe and Kathak performance by Deepak Maharaj.

Q) Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in which State?

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

Ans - D

Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through virtual mode at Pilkhuwa in Uttar Pradesh. The first of its kind in India facility has been created by Delhi

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based DRDO laboratory ‘Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES)’. The SDC DRDO facility will help in developing trained human resources, fire safety technology and products to save precious human lives and valued assets.

Q) With reference to the SFURTI clusters, consider the following statements: 1. The Ministry of MSME has funded an amount of around Rs.85 crores for development of these 50 clusters. 2. It aims to organize traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and increase their income.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Union Minister for MSME inaugurated 50 artisan-based SFURTI clusters, spread over 18 States. In the 50 clusters inaugurated, over 42,000 artisans have been supported in the traditional segments of muslin, khadi, coir, handicraft, handlooms, wood craft, leather, pottery, carpet weaving, bamboo, agro processing, tea, etc. The Ministry of MSME has funded an amount of around Rs.85 crore for development of these 50 clusters. The Ministry of MSME is implementing a Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with a view to organize traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and increase their income.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The GoI has constituted the “Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog” to organize animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and to take steps for preserving and improving breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter, of cows and calves b) The Animal Husbandry Department said the two-year-old body had “no mandate” to conduct “indigenous cow science” examination.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

With the Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) having canceled its “indigenous cow science” examination after widespread criticism about its promotion of fake claims and pseudoscience,

84 TELEGRAM LINK: https://t.me/opdemy WEBSITE: www.opdemy.com

the Animal Husbandry Department said the two-year-old body had “no mandate” to conduct such an examination. Any future awareness programme would be conducted “on a scientific basis”, a senior official overseeing the RKA told The Hindu.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 3.0 is launched to cover children and pregnant women who missed routine immunization during the COVID-19 pandemic, b) The campaign is scheduled to have two rounds of immunization lasting 15 days (excluding routine immunization and holidays).

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The States and Union Territories (UTs) have rolled out the Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 3.0 scheme to cover children and pregnant women who missed routine immunization during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Health Ministry said in a release issued on Tuesday. More than 29,000 children and 5,000 pregnant women were covered on the first day, it added.

Q) Recently seen in the news, Oil India Limited's Secondary Tank Farm is located at:

A. Madhuban B. Kollam C. Madurai D. None of the above

Ans - A

PM Modi inaugurated important Oil & Gas projects and Engineering Colleges in Assam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation INDMAX Unit at Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery, Oil India Limited's Secondary Tank Farm at Madhuban, Dibrugarh and a Gas Compressor Station at Hebeda Village, Makum, Tinsukia.

85 TELEGRAM LINK: https://t.me/opdemy WEBSITE: www.opdemy.com

UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

86 TELEGRAM LINK: https://t.me/opdemy WEBSITE: www.opdemy.com

Q) In order to find solutions for water-related challenges a platform called DIWALI has been developed for India and -

A. The US B. France C. Netherlands D. Germany

Ans - C

The consortium of experts from the two counties would explore the potential and sustainability of Dutch Solutions to resolve challenges in specific water challenged sites in India which are scalable, sustainable, and affordable.

Q) Which country has become the 1st country with which India has recently signed an FTA?

A. South Africa B. Mauritius C. Ethiopia D. Egypt

Ans - B

India signed a free trade and investment agreement with Mauritius on Tuesday, the first with any country in Africa. It was also the first time since 2011 that India was signing a free trade pact with any country.

Q) Which of the following conducted two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)?

A. DRDO B. HAL C. BDL D. BEL

Ans - A

The launches were carried out from a static vertical launcher from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. Indigenously designed and developed by DRDO for Indian Navy, VL-SRSAM is meant for neutralizing various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets. The current launches were carried out for a demonstration of vertical launch capability as part of its maiden launch campaign.

Q) Which country has launched a coronavirus “green pass” system, which allows people who have been vaccinated to access public facilities that would otherwise be off-limits?

A. The US

87 TELEGRAM LINK: https://t.me/opdemy WEBSITE: www.opdemy.com

B. Russia C. Israel D. France

Ans - C

Israelis who have gotten both Pfizer vaccine shots and those who have recovered from the virus get a “Green Pass” certificate in the form of a QR code or printout for people without smartphones. The pass allows entry to gyms, swimming pools, hotels, entertainment venues, and sporting events. Green Pass privileges and restrictions are raising legal and moral questions.

Q) The 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in which State?

A. Bihar B. Jharkhand C. Chhattisgarh D. Madhya Pradesh

Ans - D

The 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh which is based on the Indian classical dance tradition. Khajuraho Temples come alive with splendor, beams, and the hustle-bustle of art lovers at the Festival. The first-day event is dedicated to Bharatanatyam performance by Geeta Chandran and her troupe and Kathak performance by Deepak Maharaj.

Q) Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in which State?

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

Ans - D

Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through virtual mode at Pilkhuwa in Uttar Pradesh. The first of its kind in India facility has been created by Delhi- based DRDO laboratory ‘Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES)’. The SDC DRDO facility will help in developing trained human resources, fire safety technology and products to save precious human lives and valued assets.

Q) With reference to the SFURTI clusters, consider the following statements: 1. The Ministry of MSME has funded an amount of around Rs.85 crores for the development of these 50 clusters. 2. It aims to organize traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and increase their income.

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Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Union Minister for MSME inaugurated 50 artisan-based SFURTI clusters, spread over 18 States. In the 50 clusters inaugurated, over 42,000 artisans have been supported in the traditional segments of muslin, khadi, coir, handicraft, handlooms, woodcraft, leather, pottery, carpet weaving, bamboo, agro-processing, tea, etc. The Ministry of MSME has funded an amount of around Rs.85 crore for the development of these50 clusters. The Ministry of MSME is implementing a Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with a view to organizing traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and increase their income.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) India ranked 75 in terms of Covid vaccines administered. b) Israel was ranked number one with 87 vaccinations per 100 persons.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

Q) Consider the following statements: a) Montera stadium now renamed Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad. b) The world’s largest cricket arena can accommodate 1.1 lakh spectators.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

Hailed as the world's largest cricket venue, the Sardar Patel Stadium at Motera near

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Ahmedabad in Gujarat was renamed the Narendra Modi Stadium. The announcement, which took may by surprise, was made minutes before the refurbished cricket stadium was due to host its first international match, between India and England.

Q) Which of the following is the 2nd largest district of India?

A. Leh B. Bikaner C. Anantapur D. Jaisalmer

Ans - A

In a first of its kind the Union Public Service Commission UPSC has opened a new center for the Civil Services Examination, in Leh for the candidates from Union Territory Ladakh. Sanctioning of a new centre for Civil Services examination in Leh is a great relief for the aspiring candidates. Leh will be the 73rd centre in the country to hold the preliminary exam for the Civil Services on 27th of June this year. Leh Deputy Commissioner will be the Coordinating Supervisor for the Leh centre. At least 800 candidates are expected to attend the civils preliminary exam from the Union Territory Ladakh.

Q) The Indian Army has made emergency procurement of Kalyani M4. What is it?

A. Rocket Launcher B. Assault Rifle C. Armoured Vehicle D. Hand Grenade

Ans - C

The Army has ordered an emergency procurement of M4 armored vehicles, which were tested in Ladakh during the standoff with China, from the Pune-based defense company Bharat Forge of the Kalyani group. In a statement released Tuesday, the company said it had “received an order worth Rs 177.95 crores from the Indian Ministry of Defence for the supply of Kalyani M4 vehicles”.

Q) Which State will host the second edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2021?

A. Uttar Pradesh B. Karnataka C. Maharashtra D. West Bengal

Ans - B

The second edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2021, is scheduled to be held in Karnataka. This announcement was made by the Karnataka Chief Minister, Shri BS Yediyurappa and Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju. The KIUG-2021 will be

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hosted by JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Bengaluru, in partnership with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). In 2021, Yogasana and Mallakhamb have been added to the University Games, in an effort to preserve and promote the century-old sporting disciplines of the country.

Q) Central Excise Day is celebrated every year on -

A. 24th February B. 25th February C. 26th February D. 27th February

Ans - A

Central Excise Day is celebrated every year on February 24 across India. The day is being celebrated to honor the service of the Central Board of Excise and Custom (CBEC) to the country. The day is celebrated to honor the officers associated with CBEC and their services. This is done to encourage the officers to carry out their duties with utmost sincerity. The officers, every year perform checking of corruption in goods from the manufacturing sector. The day is celebrated to commemorate the legislation of the Central Excise and Salt act on 24 February 1944.

Q) Which Ministry has launched the SmartCode platform that enables all ecosystem stakeholders to contribute to a repository of open-source code for various solutions and applications for urban governance?

A. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology B. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs C. Ministry of Rural Development D. Ministry of Commerce

Ans - D

It is designed to address the challenges that urban local bodies (ULBs) face in the development and deployment of digital applications to address urban challenges, by enabling cities to take advantage of existing codes and customizing them to suit local needs, rather than having to develop new solutions from scratch.

Q) Which Minister has inaugurated 50 artisan-based Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) clusters that are spread over 18 States?

A. Nitin Gadkari B. Smriti Irani C. Piyush Goyal D. Rajnath Singh

Ans - A

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Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari on Monday evening inaugurated 50 artisan-based Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) clusters that are spread over 18 States. The Ministry of MSME has funded an amount of around Rs 85 crore for the development of these 50 clusters. These clusters have been inaugurated in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

Q) Which country has become the 1st country in the world to identify a need for action for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?

A. Russia B. The US C. India D. China

Ans - C

India becomes 1st country in the world to identify the need for action for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan today said that India has become the first country in the world to identify the need for action for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Q) With reference to the National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM), consider the following statements: 1. It has been launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. 2. It will create a shared digital infrastructure for urban India, working across the three pillars of people, process, and platform to provide holistic support to cities and towns.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) has been launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) will create a shared digital infrastructure for urban India, working across the three pillars of people, process, and platform to provide holistic support to cities and towns. It will institutionalize a citizen-centric and ecosystem-driven approach to urban governance and service delivery in 2022 cities 2022, and across all cities and towns in India by 2024.

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Q) Consider the following statements. a) Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, has detailed guidelines for digital content on both digital media and Over The Top (OTT) platforms b) The new rules lay down a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

For the first time, the government, under the ambit of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, has brought in detailed guidelines for digital content on both digital media and Over The Top (OTT) platforms, while giving itself overriding powers. The new rules unveiled at a joint press conference by Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar lays down a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) to take the help of the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) for aerial mapping of the Andaman and The Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep b) Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services is an autonomous organization of under the Ministry of Earth Sciences

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) is planning to take the help of the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) for aerial mapping of the Andaman and The Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep to get a better picture of the ocean floor, also called ‘bathymetric’ study. Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services is an autonomous organization of the Government of India, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, located in Pragathi Nagar, Hyderabad.

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Q) Which of the following country’s first-ever Civil Code comes into force on January 1, 2021?

A. India B. China C. Bangladesh D. Nepal

Ans - B

In a landmark judgment delivered weeks after China enforced its new civil code, a divorce court in Beijing has ordered a man to compensate his ex-wife for the housework she did for five years of marriage. The court has split their joint property equally and ordered the man to pay around $7,700 to his former wife as “housework compensation”. On January 1, the Chinese government brought into force a new civil code, which legal experts have described as offering greater protection for individual rights.

Q) Which State Govt has approved the implementation of the mission ‘Lal Lakir’ aimed at facilitating villagers to monetize property rights and availing benefits provided by the government departments, institutions, and banks in all villages across the state?

A. Maharashtra B. Uttar Pradesh C. Rajasthan D. Punjab

Ans - D

As no record of rights is available for such properties within the ‘Lal Lakir’, the same cannot currently be monetized as per the real value of the property and no mortgages can be created on such properties. The right of record of properties within ‘Lal Lakir’ in the villages of the state will be prepared with the cooperation of the government of India under the SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme. ‘Lal Lakir’ refers to land that is part of the village ‘abaadi’ (habitation) and is used for non-agriculture purposes only.

Q) Which State Govt is setting up a “Flower Processing Centre”, to convert unsold flowers into various useful products?

A. Maharashtra B. Karnataka C. Uttar Pradesh D. Rajasthan

Ans B

The facility will provide support to the flower farmers who suffer huge losses whenever there is a

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glut or market disruption. Growers can learn the art of flower processing from the centre. The incubation centre will process flowers and convert them to value-added products such as natural dyes, floral papers, incense sticks, flower petal powder for cosmetic usage, floral embedded works, floral arts, and silica-stored flowers.

Q) Which bank has launched the "Namma Chennai Smart Card"?

A. HDFC Bank B. ICICI Bank C. Axis Bank D. IndusInd Bank

Ans - B

Q) Which of the following published a Draft National Policy on Migrant Labour? A. NITI Aayog B. Ministry of Labour & Employment C. Ministry of Home Affairs D. International Labour Organisation

Ans A

Spurred by the exodus of 10 million migrants (as per government estimates) from big cities during the Covid-19 lockdown, NITI Aayog, along with a working subgroup of officials and members of civil society have prepared a draft national migrant labor policy.

Q) The Government of India and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) signed a loan agreement for a $304 million for an Intra-State Transmission System Enhancement Project to improve reliability, capacity, and security of the power transmission network in the State of -

A. Maharashtra B. Assam C. Kerala D. Andhra Pradesh

Ans - B

The Government of India and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) on Wednesday signed a loan agreement for a $304 million Assam Intra-State Transmission System Enhancement Project to improve reliability, capacity, and security of the power transmission network in the State of Assam.

Q) Which two ministers have launched the National Urban Digital Mission? A. Ravi Shankar Prasad and Smriti Irani B. Piyush Goyal and Hardeep Singh Puri C. Nitin Gadkari and Hardeep Singh Puri D. Hardeep Singh Puri and Ravi Shankar Prasad

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Ans - D

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of Electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad launched the National Urban Digital Mission’ (NUDM) at a virtual event, to create a digital infrastructure for cities in India. The NUDM has been launched jointly by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

Q) With reference to the private sector banks, consider the following statements:

1. Private sector banks are allowed for the conduct of Government-related banking transactions such as taxes and other revenue payment facilities, pension payments, small savings schemes, etc. 2. For undertaking government agency business, the RBI pays a commission to banks.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

The Government has lifted the embargo on private sector banks (only a few were permitted earlier) for the conduct of Government-related banking transactions such as taxes and other revenue payment facilities, pension payments, small savings schemes, etc. With the lifting of the embargo, there is now no bar on RBI for authorization of private sector banks (in addition to public sector banks) for Government business, including Government agency business. Government-related banking transactions include taxes and other revenue payments, pension payments, and small savings schemes.

Q) Consider the following statements. a) The Assembly elections are to be held in the States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, and Assam, and the Union Territory of Puducherry. b) The present Chief Election Commissioner is Sunil Arora

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - C

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The Assembly elections in the States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, and Assam and the Union Territory of Puducherry will be held between March 27 and April 29, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Friday. At a press conference, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said polling to 126 constituencies in Assam would be held in three phases on March 27, April 1, and April 6. Voting in Kerala (140 seats), Tamil Nadu (234), and Puducherry (30) would be held in a single phase on April 6.

Q) Consider the following statements: a) ECI said there will be no postal ballots for NRIs this time for the assembly elections announced in March. b) Postal ballots is a facility so far available to Armed forces, paramilitary forces and government employees serving abroad.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Anc - C

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) will have to wait longer to be able to vote by postal ballots, as Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said on Friday that the facility would not be extended to them for the upcoming elections to the Assam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal Assemblies. After announcing the poll schedule on Friday, Mr. Arora said NRIs would not get the postal ballot facility this time. He said after the EC sent its note, it was further referred to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Q) With reference to the India Toy Fair 2021, consider the following statements: 1. It aims to bring together all stakeholders including buyers, sellers, students, teachers, designers, etc. on a virtual platform to create sustainable linkages and encourage dialogue for the overall development of the industry. 2. The Government of India has launched ‘Toycathon’, an online toy hackathon for innovative toys/games concepts.

Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - D

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate The India Toy Fair 2021 on 27th February. In his Mann ki Baat address in August 2020, the Prime Minister had said that toys not only

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augment activity but also give flight to aspirations. He also emphasized boosting toy manufacturing in India. The India Toy Fair 2021 is being organized in line with this vision of the Prime Minister. The Fair will be held from 27th February to 2nd March 2021. It aims to bring together all stakeholders including buyers, sellers, students, teachers, designers, etc. on a virtual platform to create sustainable linkages and encourage dialogue for the overall development of the industry.

Q) India recently held a trilateral dialogue with a focus on enhancing Indo-Pacific with which two countries?

A. Japan & Australia B. France & Australia C. The US & Australia D. Brazil & Australia

Ans - B

A trilateral dialogue was held among India, France, and Australia on February 24, 2021, at the senior officials’ level, with a focus on further enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The aim of this trilateral dialogue is to build strong bilateral relations among the three countries and synergize their respective strengths to ensure a peaceful, secure, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

Q) Which Asian country has declared itself free of extreme poverty?

A. Japan B. South Korea C. China D. Saudi Arabia

Ans - C

Chinese President Xi Jinping says his country has achieved the "miracle" of eradicating extreme poverty. His government says that over an eight-year period, nearly 100 million people have been lifted out of poverty. Speaking at a ceremony in Beijing, Mr. Xi said it was a "complete victory" that would "go down in history". But some experts have questioned the way this has been measured. In China, extreme poverty is defined as earning less than $620 (£440) a year.

Q) Which country has become the 1st country to get free vaccines under WHO's COVAX scheme?

A. Niger B. Sudan C. Morocco D. Ghana

Ans - D

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Ghana became the first country to receive a shipment of coronavirus vaccine from a global effort to equitably distribute doses after a plane landed Wednesday with 600,000 AstraZeneca shots. The rollout is a first step toward getting doses to low- and middle-income countries cut out of the global vaccine race. But the timing and the relatively modest supply — enough for just 1 percent of Ghana's population — point to major challenges in the immunization effort.

Q) Which State Govt has launched "Mukhyamantri Ghar Ghar Ration Yojna"?

A. Andhra Pradesh Govt B. Odisha Govt C. Delhi Govt D. Chhattisgarh Govt

Ans c)

The Delhi Cabinet has approved the doorstep delivery of ration products to eligible beneficiaries across the Union Territory. As per Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the scheme will be called 'Mukhya Mantri Ghar Ghar Ration Yojna'.

8. Asia's largest cattle park has been inaugurated in which State?

A. Assam B. Maharashtra C. Uttar Pradesh D. Tamil Nadu

Ans - D

Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that a frozen semen station to develop high milk yielding indigenous and crossbred cows will be set up in Karumandurai at the cost of Rs 100 crore. He made this announcement after inaugurating Asia's biggest cattle park - Advanced Institute for Integrated Research on Livestock and Animal Sciences (AIIRLAS) - spread over 1,600 acres and constructed at the cost of Rs 1,023 crore on Koot Road near Thalaivasal in Salem district on Monday. He also inaugurated a veterinary medical college and Thalaivasal revenue taluk office.

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UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2021

CRASH COURSE DATE SUBJECT Budget and Economic 10/04/2021, 11/04/2021 Survey 12/04/2021, 13/04/2021 Art and Culture 14/0/2021, 15/04/2021, Economics 16/04/2021 17/18/2021,18/04/2021, Modern Indian History 19/04/2021 20/04/2021,21/04/2021, Geography 22/04/2021 23/04/2021,24/04/2021, Environment 25/04/2021 26/04/2021,27/04/2021, 28/04/2021,29/04/2021, Polity 30/04/2021 01/05/2021, 02/05/2021 Science and Tech *Note: Also, there will be Lectures on CSAT as and when time permits* PRICE: 1,999 For Any Queries: 7988797680, 7999136838, 6295118940

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Q) The UN World Food Programme has launched a report called the State of School Feeding Worldwide. The headquarter of the UN World Food Programme is situated in -

A. Washington, the USA B. Geneva, Switzerland C. Vienna, Austria D. Rome, Italy

Ans - D

This publication by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) provides an analysis of the State of School Feeding Worldwide in 2020. A report on the State of School Feeding Worldwide was first published by WFP in 2013. This 2020 version follows a similar format and uses the best available data sources to describe key aspects of coverage, implementation practices, and costs of school-based health and nutrition programmes worldwide. In addition, the 2020 version seeks to analyze the direction and scale of change between 2013 and 2020 and to provide an update on advances in evidence and understanding of school feeding programmes.

Q) With reference to the Integrated Bamboo Treatment Plant, consider the following statements: 1. The plant is based on the vacuum-pressure-impregnation technique and is funded by the National Bamboo Mission (NBM) and North Eastern Council (NEC). 2. Recently it got inaugurated in Delhi.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2

Ans - A

Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) inaugurated the latest technology Integrated Bamboo Treatment Plant in the premises of North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC) in Byrnihat near Guwahati. The plant is based on the vacuum-pressure-impregnation technique and is funded by the National Bamboo Mission (NBM) and North Eastern Council (NEC). This is an initiative of the central government to make India self-reliant in the bamboo industry and create employment in this sector.

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Be True to Yourself, Have Patience, Your efforts will bear fruit!

All The Best !

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