Monthly Current Affairs of FEBRUARY

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Monthly Current Affairs of 2019 FEBRUARY

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SEN’S SCHOOL OF COMPETIVE EXAMINATIONS SSCE Monthly Current Affairs (FEBRUARY)

Daily Current Affairs 1st February 2019 1) Who among the following has taken charge as the Director General of NCC? Ans:- Lt Gen Rajeev Chopra Explanation:- Lt Gen Rajeev Chopra assumed the appointment of Director General of NCC (DGNCC). Commissioned in the Madras Regiment in December 1980, Lt Gen Chopra is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. Lt Gen Rajeev Chopra has commanded an infantry battalion in Operation Rhino (Assam). He has commanded a Brigade in Eastern Command and was Inspector General of HQ IGAR (South) in the insurgency-torn state of Manipur. He has been awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for his distinguished service in January 2018. 2) How much will be allotted under the Pradhanmantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna as per the union Budget 2019? Ans:- Rs. 75000 crore Explanation:- The Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced various schemes in the Interim Union Budget 2019-20 on February 1, 2019. Government announced fixed yearly income for small and marginal farmers under Pradhanmantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna. This scheme will benefit about 12 crore farmers who have 2 Hectare land. Rupee 6000 per year direct cash transfer in their account. Cash transfer will be given in three equal installments of Rs 2000 each. The benefit under this yojna will be given retrospectively from December 2018. Rs. 75000 crore allotted for this scheme. It is expected to double the farmers income. 3)How many banks have been allowed to exit the PCA framework? Ans:- 3 Explanation:- Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra and Oriental Bank of Commerce have been allowed to exit the PCA framework fully. The three lenders were part of 11 government-owned banks put under the framework in 2017 and 2018. In December, the government had announced a capital infusion of Rs 10,000 crore for Bank of India, Rs 5,500 crore for Oriental Bank of Commerce and Rs 4,500 crore for Bank of Maharashtra, which helped the banks coming out of the framework. The RBI's decision to impose lending restrictions on these banks had become a flashpoint between the regulator and the government, which wanted the lending capacity to be freed up. 4) Who among the following was appointed as a member of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), recently? Ans:- Rajiv Nayan Choubey Explanation:- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) that conducts prestigious civil service exams to select diplomats ,country's bureaucrats appointed Rajiv Nayan Choubey as the member of UPSC. Chairman of UPSC, Aravind Saxena administered the Rajiv Nayan Choubey oath of office. UPSC can have a maximum of 10 members excluding the chairman,with Rajiv Nayan Choubey' s appointment filled up UPSC's complete strength.

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5) UN launched Africa Centre for Climate and Sustainable Development along with this country. Ans:- Italy Explanation:- Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte along with UN representative has launched Africa Centre for Climate and Sustainable development. The new center is located near the Food and Agriculture Organization headquarters in Rome. The major objective is boosting the agricultural sectors and promoting rural development in Africa. It will help in implementing the goals of the UN's 2030 Agenda and the landmark 2015 Paris Climate Agreement to stop depending on fossil fuel and cap global warming. 6) Name the company which signed a five-year global partnership deal with the International Cricket Council? Ans:- Coca-Cola Explanation:- The International Cricket Council (ICC) signed a five-year global partnership deal with beverage manufacturer Coca-Cola Company.ICC and Coco-cola's partnership will be continue till 2023. Five years sponsorship includes all ICC events like the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 in England, Wales, the ICC men 's and women' s T20 World Cups in Australia in 2020, the ICC Women's World Cup 2021 in New Zealand and the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India in 2023. ICC also signed sponsorship with Alcobev brands, Royal Stag and Bira 91. 7) India's flagship hydrocarbon international conference 'PETROTECH-2019' will be held in ______. Ans:- New Delhi Explanation:- The 13th International Oil & Gas Conference & Exhibition 'PETROTECH-2019' is being organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas in New Delhi from 10th to 12th February, 2019. India's flagship hydrocarbon international conference is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister of India. Over 95 Energy Ministers from partner countries have been invited by the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas to participate in the Conference. The 3-day mega event will showcase the recent market and investor friendly developments that have taken place in the India's oil and gas sector. It is expected to see participation of over 86 eminent speakers and 7000 delegates from around 70 countries, including technologists, scientists, planners, policy-makers, management experts, entrepreneurs, service- providers and vendors. 8)Which organisation recently proposed a new set of relaxed norms for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)? Ans:- SEBI Explanation:- The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on January 30, 2019 proposed a new set of relaxed norms for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) to increase access to investors. 9) How many submarines will be contructed by DAC with the worth of Rs40000 cr? An:- 6 Explanation:- The Defence Acquisitions Council, DAC chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman approved indigenous construction of six submarines worth 40 thousand crore rupees. It is the second project under the Ministry's ambitious strategic partnership model aiming to boost the government's Make in India' program. The first project to get the government's nod for implementation under the new model was the acquisition of 111 utility helicopters for the Navy at a cost of over 21 thousand crore rupees in August last year. DAC has also approved the acquisition of about five thousand MILAN Anti Tank Guided Missiles for the Army. 10) Who inagurated the new Campus of NMI at Noida?

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Ans:- Prakash Javadekar Explanation:- The new Campus of the National Museum Institute was inaugurated by Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar in Noida on 30th January 2019. The foundation stone for this 3 acre campus was laid on 31st January, 2015. Four new courses namely, Archaeology; Palaeography, Epigraphy and Numismatics; Structural Conservation and Cultural & Heritage Management are expected to be commenced at the campus. 11) Which airlines recently resumed its services from New Delhi to the holy city of Najaf in Iraq after 25 years? Ans:- Air India Explanation:- Air India is resuming its services from New Delhi to the holy city of Najaf in Iraq after 25 years. Indian Ambassador to Iraq Dr Pradeep Rajpurohit said, the services will commence from the February 14, 2019. 12)Who has been elected as the new chairman of Broadcast Audience Research Council of India? Ans:- Punit Goenka Explanation:- Punit Goenka, MD and CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), has been elected as the new chairman of Broadcast Audience Research Council of India (BARC). He succeeded Nakul Chopra. It may be recalled that Goenka was the founder chairman of BARC India and played an instrumental role in setting up of the TV Viewership measurement company. It was under his leadership that BARC India established its measurement system. BARC India is a joint industry company founded by stakeholder bodies that represent Broadcasters, Advertisers and Advertising & Media Agencies. Its headquarters is located in Mumbai. 13)Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah was crowned as the King of; Ans:- Malaysia Explanation:- Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of central Pahang state was crowned as Malaysia's 16th king on 31 January, 2019. The move came nearly a month after the sudden abdication of Sultan Muhammad V. Sultan Abdullah is a council member of the world football governing body FIFA, president of the Asian Hockey Federation, and an executive board member of the International Hockey Federation. 14) Ajai Kumar is appointed as the interim CEO of this bank, recently. Ans:- Yes Bank Explanation:- Ajai Kumar is appointed as the interim CEO of Yes Bank. He will hold the charge of MD & CEO till the new CEO Ravneet Gill joins the lender. Yes Bank said that the Reserve Bank of India had approved the interim appointment. 15) InterGlobe Aviation Ltd plans to build its 2nd MRO in ______. Ans:- Bengaluru Explanation:- InterGlobe Aviation Ltd., which owns and operates air carrier IndiGo, has entered into a 20- year agreement with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). The agreement is to sub-lease five acres of land at Bengaluru Airport to build a Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) facility. This will be IndiGo's second MRO, after the one in Delhi. The facility will become operational by 2020. 16) As per the National Sample Survey Office's report, What is the unemployment rate for the year 2017-18? Ans:- 6.1% Explanation:- As per the National Sample Survey Office's (NSSO's) periodic labor force survey (PLFS) India's unemployment rate hit a 45 year high of 6.1% in 2017-18. It is the first comprehensive survey on employment conducted by a government agency after demonetization. Unemployment is higher in urban

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areas which is 7.8% as compared to 5.3% in rural areas of the country. The unemployment rate is at its highest level as in 1972-73. The rate of jobless rural males rose to 17.4% from 5% and among rural jobless females, the rate became 13.6% from 4.8%. 17) Union Minister R K Singh laid the foundation of Regional testing laboratory of Central Power Research Institute at ______, Maharashtra. Ans:-Nashik Explanation:- Union Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy, R K Singh laid the foundation of Regional testing laboratory of Central Power Research Institute (CPRI) at Nashik, Maharashtra on Jan 30, 2019. The lab will test and certify electrical equipment manufactured in the western region as per national and international standards. CPRI is an autonomous body under Ministry of Power. 18) Who took charge as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command in Mumbai? Ans:- Ajit Kumar Explanation:- Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P, PVSM, AVSM, VSM took charge as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command in Mumbai. ice Admiral Ajit Kumar succeeded Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, who retired upon superannuation, after a career span of four decades in the Indian Navy. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2006, the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2014 and Param Vishist Seva Medal in 2019 by the President of India. 19) National Council of Applied Economic Research and this ministry signed an MoU for capacity building, knowledge generation and sharing in the field of Official Statistics. Ans:- Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Explanation:- The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) signed an MoU on 29th January, 2019. The MoU was signed for capacity building, knowledge generation and sharing in the field of Official Statistics. The MoU would lead to strengthening of data quality of various statistical products and services generated by the Ministry. 20)Which state govt gave approval for Smart Village Campaign worth of Rs 385 crores? Ans:- Punjab Explanation:- Punjab govt gave approval for 'Smart Village Campaign' worth of Rs 385 crores Punjab government approved a rural development scheme"'Smart Village Campaign" worth Rs 384.40 crore to build village infrastructure and provide essential amenities. Getting approved by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Reformation and implementation of the scheme would be financed with funds from the 14th Financial Commission and MGNREGA.

Daily Current Affairs 2nd February 2019

1)Which company acquired the Noida-based last-minute hotel booking app NightStay?

Ans:-Paytm

Explanation:-Noida based digital payments company Paytm acquired the Noida-based last-minute hotel booking app, NightStay. The "NightStay" founder Nasr Khan will lead the hotel-booking services at Paytm. Paytm planned to invest 70 million for its growth in the travel segment.

2)Who became the first female player to play 200 ODIs?

Ans:-Mithali Raj

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Explanation:-36 years old India's Women Cricket team captain, Mithali Raj became the first female player to play 200 ODIs during the 3rd and Final ODI against New Zealand. Mithali Raj has played in 200 out of 263 ODI matches that India have played till now. Mithali Raj has also scored highest runs in ODIs which is 6622 at an average of 51.33 including 7 centuries. She also holds the longest international career among all female players and She has the fourth longest career only behind India's Sachind Tendulkar, Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya and Pakistan's Miandad if we include Men's teams also.

3)How many companies were shortlisted by ISRO to transfer its Lithium-ion cells technology?

Ans:-10

Explanation:-The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) selected 10 companies jointly with the NITI-Aayog from a list of 141 companies for transfer of its Lithium-ion cells technology developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thumba. ISRO developed Li-ion cells with capacities ranging from 1.5 Ah to 100 Ah for use in launch vehicles and satellites.

4)The 12th edition of Aero India, Aero India 2019 will be held in which city's Air Force Station?

Ans:-Bengaluru

Explanation:-The 12th edition of Aero India, Aero India 2019, will be held at Air Force Station at Yelahanka in Bengaluru from February 20 to 24. Aero India 2019 aims to provide a significant platform in bolstering business opportunities in the International aviation sector. Aero India Exhibition/Show is organised every two years. Aero India has carved a niche for itself globally as a premier aerospace exhibition, with eleven successful editions organised since 1996. The show aims at giving a fillip to the rapidly growing economy, defence production and participation of private players. The Aero India 2019 has a tagline "The Runway to a Billion Opportunities" and has a logo inspired by the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

5)Which state has rolled out its Handicrafts Policy 2019 for creating a vibrant and sustainable handicraft sector in the state?

Ans:-Odisha

Explanation:-The Odisha government has rolled out its Handicrafts Policy 2019 for creating a vibrant and sustainable handicraft sector in the state. The objective of the policy is to empower handicraft artisans and make them lead partners in the development.

6)Who was conferred with prestigious Award of Appreciation by Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare?

Ans:-Rajiv Nath

Explanation:-Rajiv Nath was conferred with prestigious Award of Appreciation by Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare for his contribution to the Global Public Healthcare sector in New Delhi. Rajiv Nath was honoured for his valuable, remarkable and outstanding achievements in the field of healthcare & community services for affordable MedTech access & patients safety initiatives. Rajiv Nath has also been appointed as the Member on Board of National Medical Devices Promotion Council by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) to boost the Indian Medical Devices Sector and lead India to an export driven market in the Medical Devices sector.

7)Who has become the first Indian to grab Australian Ladies PGA?

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Ans:-Vani Kapoor

Explanation:-Golfer Vani Kapoor has become the first Indian to grab Australian Ladies PGA Tour (LPGA) after securing 12th Rank tied with three others in the first-ever qualifying tournament at the Ballarat Golf Club in Australia. Total 81 players participated in the Qualifying tournament out of which top-20 earned the card for LPGA.

8)Who took charge as the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, recently?

Ans:-Vice Admiral MS Pawar

Explanation:-Vice Admiral MS Pawar, AVSM, VSM took charge as the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff. During the 25 years of his shipping regime, he served as navigating officer in several ships like INS Magar,Indian Naval Ship Nashak ,and Mauritius National Coast Guard Ship Vigilant - the senior ship of the No. 1 Patrol Vessel Squadron. He also received prestigious Herbert Lott Prize and the Vishist Seva Medal in 2010 and the Ati Vishist Seva Medal in 2016.

9)Ministry of External Affairs appointed Sanjiv Ranjan as the ambassador to which country?

Ans:-Colombia

Explanation:-Ministry of External Affairs announced that Sanjiv Ranjan has been appointed as new Ambassador to the Republic of Colombia. Ranjan, who is the current Ambassador to Argentina, is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Ranjan who is a 1993 batch Indian Foreign Service officer holds a bachelors in Economics from Delhi University and an M.A. in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

10) BESAFE's 3rd Annual Conference on 'Measurable impacts of behavioural based safety implementation in Indian Industry' held in which city?

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-BESAFE's 3rd annual conference on Measurable impacts of Behavioural Based Safety Implementation in Indian Industry was held at the PHD Chambers of Commerce, New Delhi. The Forum for Behavioral Safety (BESAFE) is a Mumbai based non-profit Organization spreading the cause of fostering a safe and healthy work place in Indian Industry. The event is conducted in collaboration with the Indo American Chamber of Commerce and Vision OSH, New Delhi. The conference would enable Indian Industry to achieve zero harm criterion to save life as well as business. During the conference Indian companies implemented BBS will share the results achieved towards zero harm mission.

11)World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2nd February of Every Year. The theme of World Wetlands Day 2019 is;

Ans:-Wetlands and Climate Change

Explanation:-World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on the 2nd of February to raise global awareness on the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet. The theme of World Wetlands Day 2019 is 'Wetlands and Climate Change'. Wetlands play a critical role in storing carbon and reducing the impact of extreme weather events associated with climate change. They reduce flooding, replenish drinking water, filter waste, provide urban green spaces and are a source of livelihoods.

12)How many countries have set up a payment channel with Iran called INSTEX?

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Ans:- 3

Explanation:-Germany, France and the UK have set up a payment channel with Iran called INSTEX. This was done to help continue trade with Iran and overcome US sanctions. This special payment system will help save the Iran nuclear deal by allowing Tehran to keep trading with EU companies. US had reimposed sanctions on Iran after US President Donald Trump abruptly quit the nuclear accord in 2018.

13) Which Country is to lend a loan of $1 billion to Beijing?

Ans:-China

Explanation:-China is to sign a $1 billion concessional loan agreement with Beijing. The agreement is to fund a major highway project linking Colombo to Kandy. The construction of the first phase of the road has been delayed for more than two years due to a lack of funding. Last year Sri Lanka has handed over a strategic port to a Chinese firm for a 99-year lease.

14)Which team won the Regatta trophy in the Kochi Area Pulling Regatta 2019?

Ans:-INS Dronacharya

Explanation:-The INS Dronacharya team won the Regatta trophy in the Kochi Area Pulling Regatta 2019 of the Southern Naval Command (SNC) held in the Ernakulam Channel. Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) School & Diving School secured the runners up position. The Boat Pulling Regatta is one of the most prestigious and traditional naval sporting activities conducted by the Navy. Six teams, formed from all major units of SNC based at Kochi, participated in the regatta.

15)This team win their first ever Asian Cup, by defeating Japan recently.

Ans:-Qatar

Explanation:-Qatar defeated four-time champions Japan 3-1 in the final to win their first ever Asian Cup. Qatar forward Almoez Ali broke the record of most goals in a single Asian Cup after netting his ninth goal with an overhead kick, breaking Ali Daei's 1996 record. This was the first time that Japan lost in an Asian Cup final.

16)Name the acting Chairperson of the National Statistical Commission, who quit from his position, on 30th January 2019.

Ans:-P C Mohanan

Explanation:-The two non-governmental members of National Statistical Commission P C Mohanan and J V Meenakshi quit over 'disagreements' with the government on the release of jobs data. P C Mohanan was the acting Chairperson of the autonomous body and J V Meenakshi was a NSC member. P C Mohanan was a former member of the Indian Statistical Services and J V Meenakshi was a professor at the Delhi School of Economics. The NSC Chairperson post is now left with Amitabh Kant, NITI Aayog Chief and Pravin Srivastava, Chief Statistician as its member. Mr. Mohanan and Meenakshi had tenure upto 2020. They resigned over the government's failure to recognize the commission's contribution and a delay in the release of new National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data.

17) Which Aerospace Industries signed an agreement with Indian Navy and Cochin Shipyard for providing Naval Medium Range Surface to air missile systems to India?

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Ans-Israel

Explanation:-An agreement was signed between Israel Aerospace Industries, Indian Navy and Cochin Shipyard for providing Naval Medium Range Surface to air missile systems to India. The agreement worth of $93 million for provision of Naval Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) systems. As per the contract Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will provide complementary systems for the air defense system. Indian Navy and IAI held an interception test abroad INS Chennai, which assessed for the first time potential collaboration between ship. IAI will provide complementary systems for the air defense system (ADS) and also involve follow up orders for a range of maintenance and other services for various sub systems of IAI's advanced MRSAM ADS.

18)Which bank launched the Kisan Suvidha loan product for small and marginal farmers?

Ans:-Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

Explanation:-'Kisan Suvidha loan' for small and marginal farmers launched by Ujjivan Small Finance Bank. The scheme will attempt to reach the bottom of the pyramid with products and services. Kisan Suvidha loan can be used by farmers for both agriculture and allied activities. The product is specially designed to cater to the needs of customers for various allied and agricultural activities. Ujjivan Small Finance Bank launched the product in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka and Odisha with an eye to expand the product offerings. It provides loans to individuals with an amount ranging from Rs. 60000 to Rs. 2 Lakh to fulfill the customized needs of the mass market segment. Ujjivan becomes the 1st bank to offer loans for agriculture and allied activities.

19) Which city will be the world's fastest growing city in the 2019-2035 period, as per the Global economic Research report prepared by Oxford Economics?

Ans:-Surat

Explanation:-As per a Global economic Research report prepared by Oxford Economics, Surat will be world's fastest growing city in the 2019-2035 period. The report also stated that all top 10 fastest growing cities will be from India.

Daily Current Affairs 2nd February 2019

1)Which company acquired the Noida-based last-minute hotel booking app NightStay?

Ans:-Paytm

2)Who became the first female player to play 200 ODIs?

Ans:-Mithali Raj

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female players and She has the fourth longest career only behind India's Sachind Tendulkar, Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya and Pakistan's Miandad if we include Men's teams also.

3)How many companies were shortlisted by ISRO to transfer its Lithium-ion cells technology?

Ans:-10

4)The 12th edition of Aero India, Aero India 2019 will be held in which city's Air Force Station?

Ans:-Bengaluru

5)Which state has rolled out its Handicrafts Policy 2019 for creating a vibrant and sustainable handicraft sector in the state?

Ans:-Odisha

6)Who was conferred with prestigious Award of Appreciation by Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare?

Ans:-Rajiv Nath

7)Who has become the first Indian to grab Australian Ladies PGA?

Ans:-Vani Kapoor

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8)Who took charge as the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, recently?

Ans:-Vice Admiral MS Pawar

9)Ministry of External Affairs appointed Sanjiv Ranjan as the ambassador to which country?

Ans:-Colombia

10) BESAFE's 3rd Annual Conference on 'Measurable impacts of behavioural based safety implementation in Indian Industry' held in which city?

Ans:-New Delhi

11)World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2nd February of Every Year. The theme of World Wetlands Day 2019 is;

Ans:-Wetlands and Climate Change

12)How many countries have set up a payment channel with Iran called INSTEX?

Ans:- 3

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13) Which Country is to lend a loan of $1 billion to Beijing?

Ans:-China

14)Which team won the Regatta trophy in the Kochi Area Pulling Regatta 2019?

Ans:-INS Dronacharya

15)This team win their first ever Asian Cup, by defeating Japan recently.

Ans:-Qatar

16)Name the acting Chairperson of the National Statistical Commission, who quit from his position, on 30th January 2019.

Ans:-P C Mohanan

17) Which Aerospace Industries signed an agreement with Indian Navy and Cochin Shipyard for providing Naval Medium Range Surface to air missile systems to India?

Ans-Israel

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18)Which bank launched the Kisan Suvidha loan product for small and marginal farmers?

Ans:-Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

19) Which city will be the world's fastest growing city in the 2019-2035 period, as per the Global economic Research report prepared by Oxford Economics?

Ans:-Surat

Daily Current Affairs 3rd February 2019

1)What is the duration of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty between US and Soviet Union?

Ans:-Unlimited

Explanation:-The duration of Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty between US and Soviet Union is unlimited

2)Who becomes the first Indian to grab Australian LPGA Card?

Ans:-Vani Kapoor

Explanation:- Vani Kapoor became the first Indian to earn a card for the Australian Ladies PGA Tour (LPGA) after coming through its first-ever Qualifying Tournament at the Ballarat Golf Club in Ballarat, Australia.

3)Which of the following country has announced its withdrawal from Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty?

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Ans:-US

Explanation:-The US is suspending its obligations under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty effective February 2 and will withdraw from the treaty in six months. It is a 1987 arms control agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union with an Unlimited duration.

4)Which state government issued an order to ban the import of pigs and piglets on 1st February 2019, because of the possibility of outbreak of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)?

Ans:-Mizoram

Explanation:- The Mizoram Government issued an order to ban the import of pigs and piglets, because there is a possibility of outbreak of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). PRRS disease is also called as Swine Flu, the virus of this disease generally transmitted from pigs and affects both pigs and humankind.

5)What is the India's rank at the 2018 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) of Transparency International (TI)?

Ans:-78

Explanation:-Global watchdog Transparency International (TI) has recently released 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), which ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption according to experts and businesspeople. The index uses a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. Here, India has improved its ranking and jumped three positions to 78th with a CPI score of 41 at the 2018 index.

6) Which country relations with India on new heights as investment expected in the energy sector?

Ans:- Algeria

Explanation:- India and Algeria relations on new heights as investment expected in the energy sector.

7)South Korea's Ki Sung-yueng announced his retirement from which sport on 31st January 2019?

Ans:-Football

Explanation:-On January 31st 2019, Football player Ki Sung-yueng announced his retirement from the South Korean national team. The midfielder though decided to retire after the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia yet decided to compete in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, which held in United Arab Emirates, under the new national team coach Paulo Bento

8)\Who became the first female paddler from India to be enlisted in the top 50 list, with a rank of 47?

Ans:-Manika Batra

Explanation:-Manika Batra became the first female paddler from India to be enlisted in top 50 list, she made herself in rank 47.

9) What was the theme of World Wetlands Day celebrated on 2nd February 2019?

Ans:-Wetlands and Climate Change

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Explanation:-World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on the 2nd of February to raise global awareness on the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet. Theme of World Wetlands Day 2019 is "Wetlands and Climate Change".

10)The Mahatma Gandhi Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Andhra Pradesh is organizing a 'Cancer Awareness Walk'. Where is the hospital located?

Ans:-Andhra Pradesh

Explanation:-The Mahatma Gandhi Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Andhra Pradesh is organizing a 'Cancer Awareness Walk'.

Daily Current Affairs 4th February 2019

1)Microsoft signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with which state government with an aim to improve the education system, on 31st January 2019?

Ans:-Sikkim

Explanation:-On January 31,2019, in order to improve the education system Microsoft signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sikkim government. The MoU was signed between the state Human Resource Department RB Subba and Managing Director of Microsoft India, Manish Prakash to boost digital literacy and new age technology knowledge in government schools.

2)Which Indian state has topped in budgetary practices, as per latest survey by Transparency International (TI)?

Ans:-Assam

Explanation:-As per latest survey conducted by Transparency International (TI), Assam has occupied the top slot in the ranking of best practices followed by states in Budget formulation and is followed by Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

3)Which State declared Dolphin as State aquatic animal?

Ans:-Punjab

Explanation:-On February 2, 2019, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh declared one of the rarest mammal, Indus River Dolphin, which is only found in Beas River ,as Punjab State Aquatic Animal.

4)NPPA controls the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India. NPPA stands for ______.

Ans:-National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority

Explanation:-National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) controls the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India.

5)Who was appointed as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Argentina, on 1st February 2019?

Ans:-Dinesh Bhatia

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Explanation:-On 1st February 2019, Shri Dinesh Bhatia an Indian Foreign Service officer of 1992 batch has been appointed as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Argentina. At present, he was the Consul General, Consulate General of India, Toronto.

6)When is the International World Cancer Day celebrated?

Ans:-February 4

Explanation:-World Cancer Day is an international day marked on February 4

7)What is the theme of the 12th edition of Aero India 2019?

Ans:-The Runway to a Billion Opportunities

Explanation:-The 12th edition of the India's premier air show - Aero India 2019 will be held at Air Force Station at Yelahanka in Bengaluru from February 20 to 24. The Ministry of Defence has lined up programmes for Start-Ups Day, Women's Day, Daily Students' Day, Drone Olympics and photography contests as sideshows to make it an interactive affair. More than 350 exhibitors will be accommodated in five hangers at the Air Force Station. This year, the aero show is themed 'The Runway to a Billion Opportunities', to communicate India's value proposition in addressing the immense opportunities in the aerospace and aviation sectors in the country today.

8)Who is appointed as the MD and CEO of Corporation Bank?

Ans:-P.V. Bharathi

Explanation:-The government has appointed P.V. Bharathi as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Corporation Bank. Earlier she has served as the Executive Director of Canara Bank.

9)Which country has won the 2019 Asian Cup Football tournament?

Ans:-Qatar

Explanation:-The Qatar national football team has won their first major football title after defeating four- time champion Japan 3-1 in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup final on 1st of February in United Arab Emirates (UAE). It was an improbable run to glory for the Gulf nation as it prepares to host the 2022 World Cup.

10)The first-ever global report "Future of the Rail" has prepared by which international organisation?

Ans:-IEA

Explanation:-The International Energy Agency (IEA) has prepared the report titled 'The Future of Rail' in association with the International Union of Railways (UIC). This first-ever global report has a specific focus on India, where rail passenger traffic increased by nearly 200% since 2000. The report stated that Indian railways will account for nearly 40% of total global rail activity by 2050.

Daily Current Affairs 5th February 2019

1)Behrouz Boochani, who won the Australia's richest literary prize, is from which country?

Ans:-Iran

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Explanation:-The Kurdish Iranian journalist, filmmaker and detained refugee, Behrouz Boochani has won the Victorian Prize for Literature for a book he reportedly wrote using the online messaging service WhatsApp. He was awarded the Australian dollar $100,000 (US$72,600) prize for his book "No Friend But the Mountains: Writing from Manus Prison".

2)Who has been appointed as the new Nepalese ambassador to India?

Ans:-Nilambar Acharya

Explanation:-Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India. The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics in October 2017.

3)Name the new dwarf spheroidal galaxy discovered by astronomers from Italy, the UK, Germany and the United States, using Hubble Space Telescope, on 31st January 2019?

Ans:-Bedin 1

Explanation:- On January 31,2019, astronomers from Italy, the UK, Germany and the United States discovered newly discovered galaxy consists of red giant particles. Bedin 1 is a new dwarf spheroidal galaxy. This ancient galaxy is one of the oldest galaxy and was named after Luigi Bedin, a researcher at Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics. Bedin 1 is located 28.38 million light years from Earth.

4)Who is the recipient of K.Veeramani Award for Social Justice 2018?

Ans:-P S Krishnan

Explanation:-P.S. Krishnan, former Secretary to Government of India (GoI), has been conferred prestigious K. Veeramani Award for Social Justice 2018 for his works in the field of social justice for SCs, STs, BCs for the last more than six-and-half decades. The Periyar International Inc., a Chicago-based voluntary organisation, gives an annual award for outstanding contributions to Social Justice at a function in New Delhi.

5)Which company received the Aegis Graham Bell Award 2019 under Innovation in Data Science, in Panaji, Goa, on 4th February 2019?

Ans:-Uniphore Software Systems

Explanation:- On February 4, 2019, 9th edition of Aegis Graham Bell Award was held in Panaji Goa. Uniphore Software Systems received the Aegis Graham Bell Award under Innovation in Data Science for its flagship product auMina.

6)The World Heritage Centre (WHC) would be set up at which of the following states?

Ans:-Kolkata

Explanation:-The World Heritage Centre (WHC) housing 'spiritual camps' of 45 countries would be set up at Mayapur in Nadia district, Kolkata. The camp of each country would reflect its culture, dress, lifestyle, food and ambiance. The process for setting up the centre got momentum after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inquired about the project at a recent administrative meeting in Nadia district. The proposed project would also showcase traditional Bengali handloom and craft as suggested by the chief

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minister. The estimated project cost of the proposed centre has been fixed at Rs. 3,000 crore. Mayapur is the global headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

7)Name the person who was elected as the President of El Salvador, on 4th February 2019?

Ans:-Nayib Bukele

Explanation:-On February 4,2019 , Former mayor Nayib Bukele won El Salvador's presidential election. He will succeed Salvador Sanchez Ceren ,after whom the leadership chair was vacant for a period of time. He is to assume the chair of president on June 1, 2019.

8)What is the theme of the 2019 World Cancer Day (WCD)?

Ans:-I Am and I Will

Explanation:-The World Cancer Day (WCD) is observed every year on 4th of February to spread awareness about cancer, its treatment and to encourage methods of its prevention. The aim of the day is to save millions of preventable deaths each year through education, raising awareness and by pressing governments and individuals across the world to take action against the deadly disease. This year, in 2019, Union for International Cancer Control, which organizes WCD, has launched a new 3-year campaign with the theme: "I Am and I Will". The campaign is an empowering call-to-action urging for personal commitment and represents the power of individual action taken now to impact the future.

9) Which state is planning to expand the Millet Village scheme to several districts following the successful trial run?

Ans:-Kerala

Explanation:-Kerala State Agriculture Department is planning to expand the Millet Village scheme to Idukki, Wayanad and other parts of Palakkad, including more tribal villages at Attappady, following the successful trial run at Attappady in Palakkad district.

10)Which state government has launched the 2nd phase of Pasupu-Kumkuma scheme?

Ans:-Andhra Pradesh

Explanation:- Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu launched the 2nd phase of Pasupu- Kumkuma (Turmeric-Kumkum) scheme and welfare pensions. Under the scheme, women who are a part of Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas (DWCRA) will be given Rs 10,000 in three instalments.

Daily Current Affairs 6th February 2019

1)Which states has become the first Indian state to set up a Price Monitoring and Research Unit (PMRU)?

Ans:-Kerala

Explanation:-Kerala has become the first State to set up a Price Monitoring and Research Unit (PMRU) to track violation of prices of essential drugs and medical devices under the Drugs Price Control Order (DPCO). The move comes more than 5 years after the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) proposed such a system for the States and the Union Territories.

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2)Which article from Indian Constitution will invoke President's rule on the State?

Ans:-Article 356

Explanation:-President's rule is the suspension of state government and imposition of direct Central Government rule in a state. It is Under Article 356 of the Constitution of India.

3)Which state government has launched Kalia Students' Scholarship Scheme to boost education for farmers children?

Ans:-Odisha

Explanation:-In Keonjhar district, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched the new 'KALIA Chhatravritti Yojana' to facilitate the children of the farmers, who are the beneficiaries of the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme. Under this scholarship scheme, the beneficiaries will be provided scholarships for pursuing higher education in professional courses free of cost. Children of farmers who have taken admission at Government Professional colleges on merit basis will be eligible for the scholarship scheme.

4)Who is the defence Minister of Russia?

Ans:-Sergei Shoigu

Explanation:-Sergei Shoigu is the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation.

5)Which Indian squash player has won the 2019 Seattle Open title?

Ans:-Ramit Tandon

Explanation:-ndian squash player Ramit Tandon has won the 2019 Seattle Open title by defeating Mohamed El Sherbini of Egypt in the final in USA.

6)Which city is the venue of the ICT Academy Bridge 2019 conference?

Ans:-Chennai

Explanation:-In Tamil Nadu, the 37th edition of the ICT Academy Bridge 2019 conference was held in Chennai with theme "Fostering India for Industry 4.0".

7)Where is the Sanjay Gandhi National park located?

Ans:-Maharashtra

Explanation:- Sanjay Gandhi National park located in Mumbai Maharashtra.

8)Who was appointed as Nepal's ambassador to India in Kathmandu on 4th February 2019?

Ans:-Nilambar Acharya

Explanation:-Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister,was appointed as Nepal's ambassador to India in Kathmandu. Nilambar Acharya's oath of office position was administered by President Bidya Devi

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Bhandari in Kathmandu. The position of Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned in October 2017.

9)After which scam did the Bengal State demand for the President's rule in the State?

Ans:-Saradha chit fund scam

Explanation:-The Scam that took place in West Bengal is the Saradha chit fund scam.

10)Who was honoured with the first Word Smith Award 2019 for his contribution in Indian Literature, at the Words Count festival 2019 held in Pune on 4th February 2019?

Ans:-Pavan Kumar Verma

Explanation:-On February 4,2019, second edition of Words Count festival 2019 was held in Pune, Maharashtra. The Festival, was hosted by the award -winning screenwriter, author and columnist Advita Kala. This festival is held with a motive to bring together speakers from several socio-political spheres and share their insights on various issues. Pavan Kumar Verma, A career diplomat and famous writer was honored with first Word Smith Award 2019 for his contribution in Indian Literature.

Daily Current Affairs 7th February 2019

1)SGS-1, Communication Satellite belongs to ______.

Ans-Saudi Arabia

Explanation:-Saudi Arabia announced the launch of its first satellite for communications, SGS-1, from the French Guiana Space Centre.

2)Which high court has ruled against negative marking in competitive examinations?

Ans:-Madras High Court

Explanation:-In a huge relief to a number of students who fail to qualify to enter into prestigious institutions like IITs due to negative marking, the Madras High Court ruled against negative marking in competitive examinations saying they are bad in law. The Court stated that the practice of awarding negative marks will eradicate intelligent guessing in competitive exams. The judgment was passed while disposing of a writ petition filed in 2013 by an IIT JEE aspirant S. Nelson Prabhakar (a Scheduled Caste student), who failed to clear the Mains due to negative marking.

3)Dakshayani, which is in news recently, is a/an _____?

Ans:-Animal

Explanation:-Dakshayani, an 88-year-old captive she-elephant in Kerala, has died at a care centre at nearby Pappanamcode in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on 5th February 2019. She was the oldest captive elephant in Asia and Guinness record holder. She was also called the 'Gaja Muthassi' (grandmother of elephants).

4)GSAT-31, which is in news recently, is launched from which of the following places?

Ans:-French Guiana

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Explanation:-India's latest communication satellite GSAT-31 was successfully launched by European launch services provider- Arianespace's rocket from Kourou Launch Base in French Guiana on February 6, 2019. The Ariane-5 vehicle (Flight VA247) also carried Saudi Geostationary Satellite 1/Hellas Sat 4 along with GSAT-31.

5)Which union ministry has launched Shehri Samridhi Utsav?

Ans:-Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Explanation:-The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched Shehri Samridhi Utsav to extend the outreach of DAY-NULM (Deendayal Antyodaya Mission - National Urban Livelihoods Mission) to the most vulnerable. The event will also showcase its initiatives and facilitate access of Self-Help Group (SHG) members to the other government schemes.

6)Sentinelese Tribe, which is in news recently, is located in which of the following islands?

Ans:-North Sentinel Island

Explanation:-The North Sentinel Island (NSI) is home to the Sentinelese tribe, which have consistently refused any interaction with the outside world. They are hostile to outsiders and have killed people who approached or landed on the island. Sentinelese people are believed to be the only pre-Neolithic people in the world. This means they have a culture that existed in the middle period of Stone Age.

7)Which bank UK chief honoured Freedom of the City of London?

Ans:-SBI

Explanation:-The State Bank of India's UK head Sanjiv Chadha has been honoured with the 'Freedom of the City of London' award in recognition of his contribution to promoting the bilateral relations. Sanjiv Chadha was nominated for the honour by Lord Mayor of London Peter Estlin and Sheriff Vincent Keaveny.

8)Who is appointed as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Colombia?

Ans:-Sanjiv Ranjan

Explanation:-Ministry of External Affairs appointed Sanjiv Ranjan as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Colombia.

9)Which of the following fund is used for unexpected circumstance?

Ans:-Contingency fund

Explanation:-The contingency fund is a fund for emergencies or unexpected outflows, mainly economic crises.

10)Who is the head of the committee which is constituted by the Maharashtra to review welfare schemes for tribals?

Ans:-Vivek Pandit

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Explanation:-The Maharashtra government has set up a 17-member committee to review various schemes being implemented for the welfare of tribals in the state. The committee will be headed by former MLA and Shramjeevi Sanghatna president Vivek Pandit.

Daily Current Affairs 8th February 2019

1)Which country has recently signed NATO accession agreement?

Ans:-Macedonia

Explanation:-Macedonia signed an accord to join NATO to become the 30th member of the US-led alliance. The admittance of a new member highlighted that all European nations who meet the entrance criteria could join the regional alliance.

2)The Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) would be set up for ______?

Ans:- Conservation of Cows, Protection of Cows & Progeny of Cows

Explanation:-The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for the establishment of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) for conservation, protection and development of cows and their progeny. It will lead to the development of the cattle population in the country including the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. It will result in the growth of the livestock sector which is more inclusive, benefit women, and small and marginal farmers.

3)Which city was the venue of the 'Parmanu Tech 2019'?

/ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The "Parmanu Tech 2019" Conference was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) at New Delhi on February 6. The conference discussed issues related to Nuclear Energy and Radiation Technologies. Dr Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Atomic Energy and Space, delivered the keynote address at the conference.

4)Where was Air India's First ever Flight Simulator known as 'Boeing 747-200' exhibited?

Ans:-Mumbai

Explanation:-Air India's First ever Flight Simulator known as 'Boeing 747-200' was exhibited in Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai. The Simulator was acquired by Air India in 1980,which is designed and manufactured by the CAE(Canadian Aviation Electronics),Canada.

5)Which state government has launched the Zero Fatality Corridor (ZFC)?

Ans:-Delhi

Explanation:-The Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government has recently launched the 'Zero Fatality Corridor' (ZFC) to examine the cause for accidents and crashes on the stretch between Burari Chowk and Bhalswa chowk, located on the outer ring road. The aim of the pilot project is to reduce deaths to near zero levels on this particular stretch.

6)Which project has been launched by Union Government to study Apparel Consumption in India? (Marks: 0)

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Ans:-India Size

Explanation:-In Mumbai, the India Size project has recently launched by the Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani. It's a first-of-its-kind project in the history of the country, which aims to arrive at a standard Indian Size for the ready-to-wear clothing industry, on the lines of the standardized sizes available in countries such as the USA, the UK and Mexican. A size chart that is specific to Indian consumers' measurements will be developed. The project is being undertaken by the Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI). The Minister also launched a Study of Apparel Consumption in India. The report of this study would be ready for release by July 2019.

7)Which small finance bank Partners With Suryoday SFB to offer Sweep Account Facility?

Ans:-Fino Payments Bank

Explanation:-Fino Payments Bank Partners With Suryoday SFB to offer Sweep Account Facility.

8) Which dancer was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards 2017 under the category 'Kathak', on 6thFebruary 2019?

Ans:-Shobha Koser

Explanation:-Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2017 was presented by President Ram Nath Kovind to 42 artists in a ceremony held in New Delhi. Shobha Koser was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards 2017 under the category 'Kathak'.

9)The 462nd Kandoori festival 2019 has celebrated in which of the following states?

Ans:-Tamil Nadu

Explanation:-In Tamil Nadu, the 462nd annual Kandoori festival 2019 has started at nearby Nagore Dargah, a famous Muslim pilgrim centre in Nagore. The 14-day long festival began on 6th February after the holy flag was brought in a procession and hoisted. The Kandoori festival is held to commemorate the death anniversary of 16th century saint Hazrath Syed Shahul Hameed Quadir Wali, who migrated from his native Manickapur near Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh and lived in Nagore till his death. As per tradition, one of the five flags was brought from Singapore. The main event of the festival-'Sandanakoodu'(sandal pot) procession- will be held on February 15.

10)The 52nd Boori Boot Yollo festival 2019 is celebrated by which tribe of Arunachal Pradesh?

Ans:-Nyishi

Explanation:-The 52nd Boori Boot Yollo festival 2019 has recently celebrated by the Nyishi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The fest is observed in the month of February every year to welcome spring and a successful harvest.

Daily Current Affairs 10th February 2019

1)What is the theme of 2nd ASEAN - India Youth Summit?

Ans:-Connectivity : Pathway to Shared Prosperity

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Explanation:-The 2nd ASEAN - India Youth Summit concluded in Guwahati which was conducted to strengthen the mutual cooperation among ASEAN countries. It was inaugurated by Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons. The theme of the summit was 'Connectivity : Pathway to Shared Prosperity'.

2)With which country Bangladesh signed an MoU for training 1800 Bangladesh Civil Servants at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG)?

Ans:-India

Explanation:-India and Bangladesh have signed an MOU for training 1800 Bangladesh Civil Servants at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) an institute under the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DAR&PG), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Govt. of India, over the next 6 years. The MOU was signed between the NCGG and the Ministry of Public Administration, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh during the visit of the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh.

3)This country will host the 13th Conference of Parties during 15th to 22nd February 2020.

Ans:-India

Explanation:-The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the conservation of migratory species of wild animals (CMS), an environmental treaty under the aegis of United Nations Environment Programme, is going to be hosted by India during 15th to 22nd February 2020 at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. Representatives from 129 Parties and eminent conservationists and international NGOs working in the field of wildlife conservation are expected to attend the COP.

4)The Robert Bosch Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBC-DSAI) was established by;

Ans:-IIT Madras

Explanation:-The Robert Bosch Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBC-DSAI) has recently inaugurated at the IIT Madras with an objective of advance scientific innovation for societal benefit. The RBC-DSAI will undertake foundational research in many areas of AI and Data Science viz. deep learning, reinforcement learning, network analytics, interpretable machine learning, and domain aware AI. The centre is opened by Germany-based Bosch in collaboration with IIT-Madras. Bosch will invest around Rs 20 crore (2.5 million euros) over five years in the centre.

5)Which state Cabinet passed the Bills for 5% reservation for Kapu and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) recently?

Ans:-Andhra Pradesh

Explanation:-The Andhra Pradesh Assembly passed the Bills for 5% reservation each for the Kapus (Kapus, Telaga, Ontari and Balija sub-castes) and other Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in the general category consequent to the 103rd amendment to the Constitution. The Bills are the A.P. EWSs of Citizens (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions and of Appointments or Posts in the Public Services under the State for Kapus) Bill, 2019 and the A.P. EWS other than Kapus (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions and of Appointments or Posts in Public Services under the State) Bill, 2019. The Assembly also passed the A.P. Backward Classes Sub-Plan (Planning, Allocation, and Utilisation of Financial Resources) Bill, 2019 (BC Sub-Plan) after brief debate on its modalities.

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6)Which team clinched the 2019 Ranji Trophy?

Ans:-Vidharbha

Explanation:-Vidharbha lifted the Ranji Trophy for the second time in a row, after defeating Saurashtra by 78 runs in the final match of the 2018-19 season held at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur. With this, Vidarbha has become only the 6th team in the tournament's long history to have defended the title.

7)Parmanu Tech 2019-Nuclear Energy Conference held in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Ministry of External Affairs and Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) organized Parmanu Tech 2019 in New Delhi to discuss the issues related to Nuclear Energy and Radiation Technologies. The main motive of this conference is to showcase India's capabilities in Nuclear Energy with environmental responsibility. Dr. Jitendra Singh delivered the keynote address at the conference.

8)India ranked ______in the 2019 US Chambers International IP Index.

Ans:-36

Explanation:-The Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) of the US Chambers of Commerce has recently released its International IP Index for Year 2019. In it, India has moved up 8 places to rank 36th among 50 economies in the 2019 Index.The improvement reflects important reforms implemented by Indian policymakers towards building and sustaining an innovation ecosystem for domestic entrepreneurs and foreign investors alike. The report also focuses on thorny issues. According to the report, the key problems in India include barriers to licensing and technology transfer, strict registration requirements, limited framework for the protection of bio-pharmaceutical IP rights, patentability requirements outside international standards, lengthy pre-grant opposition proceedings and previously used compulsory licensing for commercial and non-emergency situations. The index ranks countries based on 45 indicators covering patent, trademark, copyright and trade secrets protection.

9)What is the theme of the Asia LPG 2019 Summit?

Ans:-LPG - Energy for Life

Explanation:-The 2nd edition of the Asia LPG Summit 2019 was held in New Delhi with theme 'LPG - Energy for Life'. The summit was organized by the World LPG Association (WLPGA) in association with major Indian public-sector oil companies (OMCs) Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum. In it, Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that India has become the world's second largest importer of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as its government pushes cleaner alternatives to traditional cooking fuels such as firewood and cow dung. The imports of LPG grew 12.5% over the past five years to 12 million metric tons (13 million tons) in 2018-19. Hence, in terms of LPG import, India has surpassed Japan to acquire 2nd spot. China is at first spot. India imports LPG mainly from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait and Iran. The summit offered a unique opportunity to the global LPG industry to interact with development agencies, NGOs and non-profit organizations who have facilitated last-mile access to LPG for the beneficiaries.

10)Who sign MoU For Fair Environment In e-Marketplace along with CCI

Ans:-Government e Marketplace

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Explanation:- Government e Marketplace (GeM) and Competition Commission of India (CCI) entered into a MoU to enable a fair and competitive environment in the e-Marketplace. Chairman CCI, A.K. Gupta, CEO GeM, S. Radha Chauhan were present on the occasion. GeM is a state-of-the-art national public procurement platform of Ministry of Commerce and Industries, that has used technology to remove entry barriers for bonafide sellers and has created a vibrant e-marketplace with a wide range of goods and services.

Daily Current Affairs 9th February 2019

1)What is the name of the new white dwarf galaxy that was found by NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope?

Ans:-NGC 6752

Explanation:-An international team of astronomers used the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to study white dwarf stars within the globular cluster NGC 6752.

2)Who was appointed as the Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs?

Ans:-Sailesh

Explanation:-Shri Sailesh, IAS, Assam-Meghalaya Cadre,took charge as the Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs. He will also hold the post of Secretary, Department of Official Language as an additional charge.

3)RBI imposed Rs.1 crore penalty to this bank under Section 47 A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Ans:-State Bank of India

Explanation:-The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a fine of Rs.1 crore penalty State Bank of India (SBI). This penalty was levied as the lender violated the RBI norms. RBI levied the penalty in the exercise of powers conferred under Section 47 A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 as SBI was not monitoring the end use of funds in respect of one of its borrowers.

4)Who won the EGAT Cup International Weightlifting,that held in Thailand?

Ans:-Saikhom Mirabai Chanu

Explanation:-The 24 year old World champion Manipuri weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu notched up gold at EGAT Cup in Chiang Mai city, Thailand. Mirabai Chanu has won 48 kg category Gold with effort of 192 kg in the silver level Olympic qualifying event for 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

5)Who among the following clinched a gold medal at the EGAT Cup in Thailand?

Ans:-Saikhom Mirabai Chanu

Explanation:-World champion Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu notched up a gold medal at the EGAT Cup in Thailand. Chanu won the 48kg category gold with an effort of 192 kg in the silver level Olympic qualifying event. Making a strong comeback from the lower back injury that kept her out of action for nearly nine months.

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6)Which city police launched a Mobile App 'Digicop' to track the status of stolen two-wheelers and cell phones?

Ans:-Chennai

Explanation:-Actor Vijay Sethupathi launched the mobile App 'DigiCop' of the Chennai police department at the Commissioner's office. Using the App, people can track the status of stolen two-wheelers and cell phones. The details of 18,000 stolen mobile phones are stored in the App. Using DigiCop App, people can verify IMEI, report lost two-wheelers and phones, know the nearest police station, police news, and traffic alerts.

7)Which country signed an accord to join as a new member of NATO military alliance?

Ans:-Macedonia

Explanation:- Macedonia signed an accord to join NATO to become the 30th member of the NATO military alliance. The historic agreement was signed between Macedonia's Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

8)The circuit bench of the Calcutta High Court will be set up in which of the following city?

Ans:-Jalpaiguri

Explanation:- The Union Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of Circuit Bench of Calcutta High Court at Jalpaiguri. Te proposed bench will have jurisdiction over four districts namely Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar. The decision comes in the backdrop of the decision of the Calcutta High Court Full Court Meeting in 1988. The Union cabinet had also approved the move in June 2006. A circuit bench is for territories which are far flung, but do not have too many matters to justify a full-fledged permanent bench. The Calcutta High Court is the oldest High Court in India. It has jurisdiction over the state of West Bengal and the Union Territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The High Court building's design is based on the Cloth Hall, Ypres, in Belgium.

9) Which city is the venue of 9th Senior Women’s Hockey National Championship 2019?

Ans:- Vidharbha

Explanation:- On 7th February, Vidharbha lifted the Ranji Trophy for the second time in a row, after defeating Saurashtra by 78 runs in the final match of the 2018–19 season held at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur. With this, Vidarbha has become only the 6th team in the tournament's long history to have defended the title.

10)Which city is the venue of 9th Senior Women's Hockey National Championship 2019?

Ans:- Hisar

Explanation:- The 9th Senior Women's Hockey National Championship 2019 has started in Hisar, Haryana from February 8. Top India stars will turn up for their respective state units and employers for the tournament. RSPB will begin their campaign against Hockey Rajasthan in the Pool A opening match. Twenty teams will participate in the 11-day domestic extravaganza. Teams that take the top two spots in Pools A, B, C and D in the round-robin stage will qualify for the quarterfinals to be played on February 15.

Daily Current Affairs 11th February 2019

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1)Name the India warship which participated in a multi-national training exercise 'CUTCLASS EXPRESS 2019'?

Ans:-INS Trikand

Explanation:-INS Trikand, the frontline warship of the Indian Navy, participated in a multi-national training exercise 'CUTCLASS EXPRESS 2019'. The annual Exercise Cutlass Express is sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) and conducted by Naval Forces Africa (NAVAF). It is the eighth iteration of the annual multinational maritime exercise and was held in the vicinity of Djibouti, Mozambique and Seychelles. The aim of the exercise was to improve law enforcement capacity, promote regional security and progress inter-operability between the armed forces of the participating nations for the purpose of prohibiting illegal maritime activity in the Western Indian Ocean.

2)This Country approved to sell two of its advanced missile to India for an estimated cost of $190 million?

Ans:- U.S

Explanation:-US agreed to sell two of its advanced missile to India for Air India one. US approved the purchase of the two systems known as Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCAM) and Self- Protection Suites (SPS) at cost of USD 190 million,to enhance the security of planes flying the Prime Minister and the President. To purchase these two missile,in the interim budget Rs.1084 crores have allotted and these missiles are to be in India in the year end.

3)Multinational maritime exercise 'AMAN-19' was held in ______, Pakistan.

Ans:-Karachi

Explanation:-The 5-day multinational maritime exercise 'AMAN-19' in which 46 nations participated from all over the world was formally commenced at Pakistan Navy Dockyard, with a colorful flag hoisting ceremony. Principal aim to conduct this exercise is to facilitate a forum of understanding of each other's maritime concepts and operation cultures and to produce ways and means to confront common threat at sea.

4)What is the name of the digital skilling program launched by Facebook to empower women?

Ans:-GOAL(Going Online As Leaders)

Explanation:-Focussing on its mission to empower women, social networking giant Facebook on launched a digital skilling and mentorship initiative named GOAL (Going Online As Leaders) across five states in India that would encourage tribal girls to become village-level digital young leaders for their communities.

5)Who was appointed as CEO of Cognizant, recently?

Ans:-Brian Humphries

Explanation:-Cognizant for the first time has picked an outsider, Brian Humphries, as its new CEO. Humphries will replace Francisco D'Souza, who has been with the firm since 2007.

6)Which Bank won the Aegis Graham Bell Award 2018 in 'Innovation in Data Science' category?

Ans:-Yes Bank

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Explanation:-Aegis Graham Bell Award 2018 announced Yes Bank as the winner in 'Innovation in Data Science' category for their industry-first project 'Yes EEE (Engage Enrich Excel)' at Panaji, Goa. It was hosted by the Government of Goa. Aegis Graham Bell Awards (AGBA) Promotes innovations and entrepreneurship in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) domain.

7)Which region has been declared as Jammu & Kashmir's third administrative division?

Ans:-Ladakh

Explanation:-The Jammu & Kashmir Government on Friday declared Ladakh as the third administrative division of the state. An order issued by Governor Satya Pal Malik's administration said, "The Government has approved the creation of a separated administrative/revenue division of Ladakh". The division will comprise Leh and Kargil districts, with Leh as the division's headquarters About Ladakh Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu & Kashmir and the highest plateau in the state, most of it being over 9.800 ft above sea level. The region is geographically isolated and remains landlocked for nearly 6 months in a year.

8)Who among the following was appointed as the Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs?

Ans:-Sailesh

Explanation:-Shri Sailesh, IAS, Assam-Meghalaya Cadre, took charge as the Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs. He will also hold the post of Secretary, Department of Official Language as an additional charge.

9)World Pulses Day was celebrated on;

Ans:-10th February

Explanation:- February 10, 2019, was the first-ever World Pulses Day, a United Nations global event to celebrate pulses worldwide and continue the important gains made with the 2016 International Year of Pulses. The aim is to celebrate, raise awareness and promote the consumption of pulses at events around the globe.

10)Who clinched Chennai Open ATP Challenger tournament title?

Ans:- Corentin Moutet

Explanation:- In Tennis, France's Corentin Moutet has clinched the Chennai Open ATP Challenger tournament title after beating Andrew Harris of Australia in the singles final. It was the second Challenger title for Moutet, who received 80 ATP points, while Andrew got 48 ATP points.

11)Who is appointed as Ambassador of India to the Republic of Marshall Islands?

Ans:- Sanjay Kumar Verma

Explanation:-Shri Sanjay Kumar Verma (IFS: 1998), presently Ambassador of India to Japan, concurrently accredited as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Marshall Islands, with residence in Tokyo.

12)Who has been appointed as the assistant coach for Australia's cricket team for 2019 World Cup?

Ans:-Ricky Ponting

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Explanation:-Cricket Australia appointed Ricky Ponting as the assistant coach for Australia's cricket team for 2019 World Cup. Ponting was appointed after David Saker's resignation from the post. Ricky Ponting worked as the assistant for Australia's T20 in 2017 and 2018. He had won the world cup three times. The main coach for the Australian Cricket team is Justin Langer. The current batting coach for the team is Graeme Hicks. ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Scheduled to be hosted by England and Wales.

13)Who launched the Hirkani Maharashtrachi scheme to provide a platform for women's Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Maharashtra?

Ans:-Shri Suresh Prabhu

Explanation:-Union Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu launched the Hirkani Maharashtrachi scheme to provide a platform for women's Self Help Groups (SHGs) and the District Business Plan Competition to boost entrepreneurship in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS), which comes under the State departments of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, will execute the project with support from officials in the districts. Under the Hirkani Maharashtrachi scheme, women's SHGs will pitch their business plan at the taluka level. Ten groups will be selected from each taluka and Rs.50,000 will be given to each SHG to implement their idea. Five SHGs at the district level will be selected and Rs.2 lakh will be given to each SHG to take their ideas forward.

14)Himalayan Cloud Observatory set up in ______.

Ans:-Tehri

Explanation:-A Himalayan Cloud Observatory is set up in Tehri district with a motive to forecast and monitor cloudburst incidents in the Himalayan region and help to minimise the damage. The Observatory is established in the SRT campus,in Tehri and is in the testing period. This is the second observatory in the country.

15) Who tops Hurun India Philanthropy list 2018?

Ans:-Mukesh Ambani

Explanation:-Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and also richest person in Asia topped the Hurun India Philanthropy list with a donation amount of 437 crores. Mukesh Ambani is followed by the chairman of the Piramal Group, Ajay Piramal who donated 200 crores.

16)Who has been elected as the chairman of the African Union?

Ans:- Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi

Explanation:-Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has been elected as the chairman of the African Union at the continental body's summit in Ethiopia. El-Sisi's election brings an end the one-year chairmanship of Rwanda's President Paul Kagame.

17)Who launched the book "Law, Justice and Judicial Power - Justice P N Bhagwati's Approach"

Ans:-Ranjan Gogoi

Explanation:-The book "Law, Justice and Judicial Power - Justice P N Bhagwati's Approach" written by Mool Chand Sharma was launched by the Chief Justice of India, Shri Justice Ranjan Gogoi. The first edition of the book was received by President Ramnath Govind.

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Daily Current Affairs 12th February 2019

1)Who was named as the brand ambassador of Rajasthan Royals?

Ans:-Shane Warne

Explanation:-Australia spin legend Shane Warne was entitled as the brand ambassador of Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming Indian Premier League. Shane Warne was the captain Rajasthan Royals for four seasons until 2011 and after that he retired from all form of cricket. The 11th edition of the IPL ,had shane Warne as Rajasthan Royals's mentor.

2)The seventh annual World Government Summit will be held in ______.

Ans:-Dubai

Explanation:-The seventh annual World Government Summit is being held in Dubai, UAE. The World Government Summit is a forum dedicated to shaping the future of governments. The Summit is being attended by 4,000 decision-makers from 140 countries including heads of state, ministers and business leaders. The World Government Summit is a global platform dedicated to shaping the future of governments worldwide. The Summit Sets the agenda each year for the next generation of governments, focusing on how they can harness innovation and technology to solve universal challenges facing humanity. It provides a unique platform to showcase and exchange best practices and smart solutions to the challenges that nations face.

3)Which bank has been penalized with Rs 1.5 crore for not monitoring fund use and fraud reporting delay?

Ans:-Allahabad Bank

Explanation:-Allahabad Bank said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 1.5 crore on them for not monitoring end use of funds, delay in classification and reporting of fraud and non- adherence with RBI guidelines during restructuring of accounts in respect of one of its borrowers.

4)National Deworming Day (NDD-2019) was observed on;

Ans:-February 10

Explanation:-The National Deworming Day (NDD) is an initiative of Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to make every child in the country worm free. The day is observed every year on 10th of February to tackle worm infections among pre-school (anganwadi) and school-age children across India. On 8th of February 2019, Union Health Ministry conducted its 8th round of NDD across the country to reduce the prevalence of parasitic intestinal worms among children. During the programme, Albendazole tablets were orally administered to pre-school and school-going children in the age group of 1 to 19 years. As per World Health Organization (WHO) report, 64% of the Indian population less than 14 years are at risk of Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) infections. During this round, over 24 Crore Children and Adolescents will be covered.

5)Under which act did the Health Ministry notify the eight medical equipments as Drugs?

Ans:-Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940

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Explanation:-The government has notified eight medical equipments as Drugs under Section 3 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 with effect from April 1, 2020. The decision was made after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board. The notification brings all the implantable and diagnostic devices will come under the regulatory framework. The equipments are: All implantable devices, CT scan, PET equipment, MRI equipment, Defibrillators, Dialysis machines, Bone marrow separators, X-ray machine. About Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB): DTAB is the highest statutory decision-making body on technical matters related to drugs in India It was constituted under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 DTAB is part of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

6)Dikkibandi stadium was renamed after former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A Sangma. It was located in the state of;

Ans:-Meghalaya

Explanation:-The Meghalaya Cabinet has decided to rename the Dikkibandi stadium in Tura town after former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A Sangma. The state Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma approved the recommendations received from the state naming authority tasked with the job to name roads, and institutions after personalities. The Dikkibandi Stadium was formerly known as MP stadium. Purno A Sangma is also a former chief minister of Meghalaya.

7)Which Indian Player has become the first Indian to smash 100 sixes in T20 Cricket?

Ans:-Rohit Sharma

Explanation:-Indian opener Rohit Sharma became the first man from his country to smash a century of sixes in T20I cricket in the second T20 between India and New Zealand held in Eden park in New Zealand.He made his T20I debut against England but played his first innings against South Africa in 2007 T20I . Rohit Sharma surpassed Martin Guptill to become the highest scorer in T20 Internationals with 102 sixes.

8)India and ______launched an initiative to Combat Marine Pollution.

Ans:-Norway

Explanation:-The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change signed a Letter of Intent establishing the India-Norway Marine Pollution Initiative together with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Earlier, the Indian and Norwegian governments agreed to work more closely on oceans by signing a MoU and establishing the India-Norway Ocean Dialogue during the Norwegian Prime Minister's visit to India in January. Both the governments launched the first Joint initiative under this new partnership.

9)With which country, Engineers India Limited signed an MoU for Project Management Consultancy for oil refinery?

Ans:- Mongolia

Explanation:-An MoU was signed between Engineers India Limited (EIL) and Mongolia for Project Management Consultancy for oil refinery. EIL is a PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of PETROTECH-2019 event at Greater Noida, UP. The MoU is for Project Management Consultancy services for construction of an oil refinery plant in Mongolia by EIL. The government of Mongolia is in the process to set-up 1.5 MMTPA greenfield crude oil refinery in Sainshand province, under Line of Credit (LoC) extended by Government of India.

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10)Who launched a 24x7 Satellite channel 'DD Arunprabha' for Arunachal Pradesh?

Ans:-Shri Narendra Modi

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a dedicated 24x7 Satellite channel, 'DD Arunprabha' for Arunachal Pradesh during his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Tripura. DD Arunprabha is the Doordarshan's second channel for the northeastern region; DD Northeast was the first one. The channel will familiarise people across India with the beauty and the culture of the State.

11)Who among the following has been appointed as the Ambassador of India to Bhutan?

Ans:- Ruchira Kamboj

Explanation:-Ruchira Kamboj was appointed as the Ambassador of India to Bhutan. She is serving as the High Commissioner of India to South Africa since 2017. A 1987-cadre Indian Foreign Service (officer), she is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Kamboj has previously served as the Ambassador/PR to Permanent Delegation of India to UNESCO, Paris.

12)On which date, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science was observed?

Ans:-11 February

Explanation:-11 February is celebrated as International Day of Women and Girls in Science to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. In December 2015, the United Nations adopted a resolution to celebrate February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. 2016 is the first time it was celebrated. The idea behind this day is to ensure equal participation and involvement of women and girls in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

13)Which of the following will be the official mascot of 13th COP of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (COP CMS 13)?

Ans:-Great Indian Bustard

Explanation:-The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS 13) will be held at 15th to 22nd February 2020 at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. Recently, the Government of India (GoI) has announced that the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) will be its mascot for CMS COP-13. It is an environmental treaty under the aegis of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Representatives from 129 Parties and eminent conservationists and international NGOs working in the field of wildlife conservation are expected to attend the COP. India has been a Party to the CMS since 1983. The Conference of Parties (COP) is the decision-making organ of this convention. CMS, also known as the Bonn Convention, recognizes that States must be the protectors of migratory species that live within or pass through their national jurisdictions and aims to conserve terrestrial, marine, and avian migratory species throughout their ranges.

14)Name the Helicopter launched anti-tank missile, that is test fired in Balasore, Odisha.

Ans:-Helina

Explanation:-India test-fired Helina, a helicopter-launched version of the Nag anti-tank guided missile, with a hit range of 7-8 km, from the Odisha Coast. Helina was launched from an Army chopper and the weapon system was tested for its full range at 12:55 PM near the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur in the Balasore District of Odisha.Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO),

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Helina is said to be one of the most advanced anti-tank weapons in the world. It is guided by an Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR)operating in the lock-on-before-launch mode.

15)Who become the first female driver to win the MRF challenge title?

Ans:-Jamie Chadwick

Explanation:-Jamie Chadwick from England made history by becoming the first female driver to win the MRF challenge title after scoring a triple win in the final round in Chennai. The 20-year-old became the first woman to win the coveted prize after an incredible performance. In August, Chadwick became the first woman to win a British F3 race. She achieved six victories in the 15 race championship and came back from a large deficit to win in style at the final event.

16)Who was conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television?

Ans:-Deepa Mehta

Explanation:-Acclaimed Indo-Canadian filmmaker, Deepa Mehta will be conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television. This award will be presented in privilege of Deepa's enormous impact and impression she has had on the essence of Canada's entertainment industry. Deepa Mehta is best known for her trilogy- "Fire", "Earth" and "Water". Deepa Mehta was born in India but she had shifted to Canada in 1973 after her marriage. She is currently engaged on Netflix series "Leila".

17)The 83rd edition of Senior National Badminton Championships has started in which of the following city?

Ans:-Guwahati

Explanation:-The 83rd edition of Senior National Badminton Championships has begun in Guwahati. Defending champion Saina Nehwal and last edition's runner-up PV Sindhu will be the biggest attractions in Women's Singles. The Men's Singles will be without defending champion HS Prannoy and runners-up Kidambi Srikanth who are suffering from injuries. This is the first time the Nationals is returning to the North-East since Guwahati last hosted it in 2010.

18)Who has been appointed as the new Union Sports Secretary?

Ans:-Radheyshyam Julaniya

Explanation:- Radheyshyam Julaniya, a 1985 batch officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed the new Union Sports Secretary. He succeeded Rahul Bhatnagar, who is set to join the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. Earlier, Bhatnagar had also served as Director General of Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). During his tenure, IIM Rohtak has also started a MBA programme in Sports Management with Ministry funding. Bhatnagar also outlined the achievements of the Sports Ministry during his tenure, which includes, opening the National Sports University (NSU), Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) besides hosting important international tournaments like the Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar and World Women's Boxing Championships in New Delhi

19)India has signed pact with which country to train Civil Servants?

Ans:-Bangladesh

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Explanation:-India has signed a MoU with Bangladesh to train 1800 Bangladesh Civil Servants at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) over the next 6 years. They will be trained in e-governance and service delivery, public policy and implementation, information technology, decentralization, urban development and planning, ethics in Administration and challenges in implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is the second time that NCGG signed an MOU for a training program for Bangladesh Civil Servants. Under the first MOU signed 5 years ago, 1500 Bangladesh Civil Servants have already been trained in NCGG. The NCGG is an autonomous institute under the aegis of Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DAR&PG), Government of India. Its head office is at New Delhi. It's a think tank for governance & policy reforms.

20)The three-day Krishi Kumbh was held in ______, Bihar.

Ans:-Motihari

Explanation:-In Bihar, Governor Lalji Tandon and Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh jointly inaugurated the three-day Krishi Kumbh in Motihari. Over fifteen thousand farmers from different states and about two hundred agricultural scientists are participating in the Kumbh. The objective of Krishi Kumbh is to promote modern techniques and diversification in agriculture that could help in doubling farmers income. The government is creating strong infrastructure from "Beej to Bazar" for enhancing the income of farmers.

Daily Current Affairs 13th February 2019

1)The 5th International Dam Safety Conference-2019 has started in ______.

Ans:-Bhubaneswar

Explanation:-The 5th International Dam Safety Conference-2019 is being held in Bhubaneswar as a joint initiative of the Government of India, Government of Odisha and the World Bank under aegis of the ongoing World Bank assisted Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) as a part of institutional strengthening. Dam Safety Conferences are being organized as an annual event in different DRIP States in collaboration with the Implementing Agencies and leading academic institutes to provide a common platform for all stakeholders including non-DRIP States.

2)Who was appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Marshall Islands?

Ans:-Sanjay Kumar Verma

Explanation:-Shri Sanjay Kumar Verma (IFS: 1998), presently Ambassador of India to Japan, has been concurrently accredited as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Marshall Islands, with residence in Tokyo.

3)For which bank, RBI penalized Rs.2 Crore for Flouting Norms?

Ans:-Corporation Bank

Explanation:-Reserve Bank of India, has imposed an aggregate penalty of Rs 20 million on Corporation bank due to some lapses in monitoring of end use of funds and exchange of information with other banks in respect of one borrower along with some other banks.

4)Name the tennis player who become the third indian to reach top-100 of Men's Singles Tennis rankings

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Ans:-Prajnesh Gunneswaran

Explanation:-Prajnesh Gunneswaran has made it to the top-100 of Men's Singles Tennis rankings with a jump of six places that took him to 97. Prajnesh is the third Indian player to break into the top-100 barrier in the past decade after Somdev Devvarman and Yuki Bhambri. In the doubles, Rohan Bopanna stayed put at 37 and was followed by his partner Divij Sharan at 39. In the Women's Tennis Association charts, Ankita Raina continues to be country's top singles player at number 165.

5)Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Employees' State Insurance Corporation's (ESIC) and National Institute of Ayurveda in which of the following state?

Ans:-Haryana

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid foundation stones of several development projects at Kurukshetra in Haryana. Modi dedicated to the nation the National Cancer Institute at Bhadsa in Jhajjar district. The institute is the state-of-the-art tertiary cancer care-cum-research centre constructed at the AIIMS Jhajjar campus. Mr Modi also inaugurated Employees' State Insurance Corporation's (ESIC) medical college and hospital in Faridabad. This will be the first ESIC medical college and hospital in north India. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of National Institute of Ayurveda in Panchkula which is being set up at Shri Mata Mansa Devi Temple Complex. Foundation stone of Sri Krishna Ayush University, Kurukshetra was also be laid by Mr Modi. It will be the first university related to Indian system of medicine in Haryana as well as the first of its kind in India.

6)Exercise Rahat Concluded in ______.

Ans:-Jaipur

Explanation:-Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Exercise 'Exercise Rahat' concluded in Jaipur, Rajasthan. It was demonstrated in Jaipur, Kota and Alwar in Rajasthan. Indian Army was represented by Jaipur based Sapta Shakti Command. Representatives from Armed Forces, National Disaster Management Response Mechanism (NDMRM), SDMA Rajasthan and DLMAs participated in the exercise. With a view to cooperate efforts for humanitarian assistance and Disaster Relief operations NDMA coordinated the exercise. The exercise was conducted in three places, in Jaipur it was in the form of a table top exercise and at Kota and Alwar it demonstrated on-ground capability and coordination among various stakeholders.

7)Which ministry will organize the first annual conference of Media Units in New Delhi?

Ans:-Ministry of Information and Broadcasting

Explanation:-Information and Broadcasting, I&B Ministry will organize the first annual conference of Media Units in New Delhi. The meeting is Chaired by I&B Minister Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore, the Conference, aims to give a unique platform to the officers of the Indian Information Service working in different Media Units to converge at an All-India level. They will discuss and deliberate upon the emerging areas of the evolving communication paradigm. Through the Conference, the Ministry aims to strengthen synergy between the Media Units in order to ensure last mile delivery.

8)13 February is celebrated as World Radio Day with the theme;

Ans:-Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace

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Explanation:-13 February is celebrated as World Radio Day by UNESCO all over the world. The theme of WRD 2019 is "Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace". This day marks a time where people around the world celebrate the radio and how it shapes our lives. Radio informs, transforms and unites us. It brings together people and communities from all backgrounds to foster positive dialogue for change.

9)Which country has decided to include Hindi as the third official language in courts?

Ans:-UAE

Explanation:-The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has decided to include Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice. The move will help the Hindi speakers to learn about litigation procedures, their rights and duties without a language barrier. It is an estimated that 3.3 million Indian expats live in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and a large number of them are blue collared workers. Hence, this is an excellent step taken by Abu Dhabi that will certainly improve access to justice for India's blue collar workers. It also fits perfectly into the wider agenda of UAE's Year of Tolerance".

10)MSDF and this organisation signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to codify, document and share best practices to improve learning outcomes in public school education.

Ans:-NITI Aayog

Explanation:-The NITI Aayog and the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation (MSDF) signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to codify, document and share best practices to improve learning outcomes in public school education through systemic reforms, based on their collective experiences of working with various state governments in India. The SOI was signed in the presence of Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog, by Mr. Alok Kumar, Adviser (HRD), NITI Aayog and Mr. Barun Mohanty, Managing Director (International), MSDF. The NITI Aayog was established with the core mandate of promoting cooperative and competitive federalism through evidence-based policy reform and knowledge inputs. ng sustainable education systems.

11)US-based virtual search start-up acquired by Facebook to boost AI capabilities is?

Ans:-GrokStyle

Explanation:-In an attempt to enable users shop better using Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities, Facebook has acquired US-based virtual search start-up, GrokStyle, at an undisclosed amount. GrokStyle was founded in 2015 and is based in San Francisco, USA.

12)Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the CREDAI YouthCon -19 in New Delhi, recently. The theme of the event is;

Ans:-Next Generation

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the CREDAI YouthCon -19 in New Delhi's Talkatora Stadium. The event is organized by the Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Association of India, CREDAI. The theme for this YouthCon is 'Next Generation'. The annual conference will bring together the next generation of real estate builders and developers to enlighten their young minds and share their thinking and approach. He will also visit the exhibition organized by CREDAI.

13)Who signed a loan agreement for Rs 5,000 crore with State Bank of India?

Ans:-NTPC Limited

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Explanation:-State-owned power giant NTPC has announced that it has signed a term loan agreement for Rs 5,000 crore with State Bank of India. The loan facility is extended at an interest rate linked to 3-Month MCLR of the Bank. This loan has a door to door tenure of 15 years and will be utilised to part finance the capital expenditure of NTPC.

14)Statue of which King was unveiled during the PrimeMinister Narendra Modi's State Visit to Tripura?

Ans:-Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya

Explanation:-During the visit of PM Modi to Agartala he unveiled the statue of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, Agartala. It was part of the union government policy to honour the heroes of India.Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya is considered as father of modern architecture in Tripura. He did the entire planning of present-day Tripura during his rule. He planned the capital city Agartala also.Statue was built by faculty and students of Tripura government's Art and craft college. It costs Rs.5 lakh for the Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya statue.

15)Ministry of Textiles and Central Silk Board jointly organised a Mega Event "Surging Silk" in which city?

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Surging Silk, Mega Event by Ministry of Textiles and Central Silk Board was held in New Delhi. The event was organized with a motive to highlight the growth of silk industry in India. In this event, Buniyaad Tasar Silk Reeling Machines to women reelers from tribal areas, to eradicate the age old practice of thigh reeling by end of March 2020. This machines by Central Silk Technological Research Institute in association with an entrepreneur from Champa in Chhattisgarh will improve the quality and productivity of Tasar silk yarn. A mobile application e-cocoon was launched during this event to check the quality of silkworm seeds.

16)RBI has recently raised the limit for collateral-free agriculture loans from Rs 1 Lakh to ______.

Ans:- Rs 1.6 lakh

Explanation:-The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently raised the limit for collateral-free agriculture loans to Rs 1.6 lakh from Rs. 1 lakh to enhance coverage of small and marginal farmers in the formal credit system. Currently, the banks are mandated to extend collateral-free agricultural loans up to Rs. 1 lakh. This limit was fixed in the year 2010. The RBI also proposed to set up an internal working group to review various issues plaguing farm credit, such as regional disparity, extent of coverage and limited capital formation from such credit. As per interim Budget of 2019, the Government of India (GoI) will also launch the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) programme to provide assured income support to small and marginal farmers. Under this, vulnerable landholding farmer-families, having cultivable land up to two hectares, will be provided direct income support at the rate of Rs. 6,000 per year. This income support will be transferred directly into the bank accounts of beneficiary farmers in three equal instalments of Rs. 2,000 each. The programme will be funded by the Government of India (GoI).

17)Who was Conferred with the MusiCares Person of the Year 2019?

Ans:-Dolly Parton

Explanation:-Dolly Parton was conferred with the "MusiCares Person of the Year".

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18)This country has signed the U.S. for 72,400 SIG716 assault rifles.

Ans:-India

Explanation:-Ministry of Defence, India has signed the U.S. for 72,400 SIG716 assault rifles for front-line soldiers deployed in operational areas. Of the 72,400 rifles, 66,400 are meant for the Army, 2,000 for the Navy and 4,000 for the Air Force. The broad parameters for the weapon are an effective range of 500 m and a weight of less than 3 kg. The new rifles will replace the Indian National Small Arms System (INSAS) rifles.

19)Where did the National Conference on Unani Medicine held?

Ans:- New Delhi

Explanation:-The two-day National Conference on Unani Medicine organized by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) as a part of 3rd Unani Day Celebration in New Delhi concluded with the note that integration and synergy of all medical systems is the need of the hour to address the health challenges we are facing today. The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Najma Heptulla, Governor of Manipur. The conference witnessed exchange of MoU for scientific collaboration in Unani Medicine between the CCRUM and Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi.

20)Name the Indian historian who won Dan David Prize 2019, recently.

Ans:-Sanjay Subrahmanyam

Explanation:-Indian historian Sanjay Subrahmanyam won the prestigious Dan David Prize 2019 for his work on inter-cultural encounters between Asians, Europeans and people of North and South America during the early modern era. He won Israel's prestigious USD 1 million dollar award in the category of "Past Time Dimension" for his work in macro-history. Once presented with the award money, Subrahmanyam will donate 10% of the prize money towards scholarships for graduate or post-graduate researchers.

Daily Current Affairs 14th February 2019

1)Who among the following was conferred with the title Entrepreneur Of the Year For 2018?

Ans:-Siddhartha Lal

Explanation:-Siddhartha Lal, managing director and chief executive officer, Eicher Motors, has been awarded the EY Entrepreneur of the Year for 2018. Lal will now represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Award (WEOY) in Monte Carlo from 6 - 8 June 2019. And Business Transformation: Kishore Biyani, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Future Group.

2)Which city hosted the first investor conference ASCEND 2019?

Ans:-Kochi

Explanation:-Kochi hosted the first investor conference ASCEND 2019 to showcase industry friendly initiatives. The conference displayed landmark administrative and policy reforms that improved ease of doing business in Kerala. The objective of the conference was to bring into sharp focus a governance that is transparent, efficient and simplified. It facilitates business and investments by reducing bureaucratic procedures. The Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) has conducted the conference in Kochi. It is the industrial and investment promotion agency of Kerala government. Industries department

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introduced an online platform KSWIFT which enable entrepreneurs to submit all applications online and obtain licences and approvals in a time-bound manner.

3)What is the new GST Recommended by Government Panel for under-construction residential properties?

Ans- 5%

Explanation:-Government panel recommended lowering GST on under-construction residential properties to 5%. The GST rate for under-construction flats earlier was 12%.The Group of Ministers headed by Nithin Patel was formed to analyse tax rates and issues or challenges being faced by the real estate sector under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.The seven member ministerial panel also favoured lowering GST on affordable housing from 8% earlier to 3%.The move will give relief to homebuyers as the tax rate had lowered sharply with no input tax credit. Any cut in GST should reduce the adverse impact on the land abatement rate also.

4)Macedonia officially changed its name to ______.

Ans:-North Macedonia

Explanation:- Republic of Macedonia officially changed its name to North Macedonia. Greece had been blocking Macedonia's entry into the European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as it disapproved of the name of the country,as the Greek province of Macedonia adjoining it has been associated with Alexander the Great.

5)Who organized the 2nd National Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission in New Delhi?

Ans:-BPRD

Explanation:-Bureau of Police Research and Development, (BPRD) organized the 2nd National Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission in New Delhi. This is a two day conference organized with a motive to discuss the issues of Skills and Competence at the grass-root level, Attitudinal Changes in Police, Gender Sensitization, harnessing technology and Community Policing. This conference was inaugurated by Former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir N. N.Vohra.

6)Where did Prime Minister laid foundation stone of Indian Institute of Technology and Indian Institute of Information Technology, recently.

Ans:-Hubli, Karnataka

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Hubli in Karnataka on the final leg of one day long his tri state visit of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to initiate various development projects.Prime minister has unveiled a plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone for construction of building campus for Indian Institute of Technology at a cost of Rs. 12,000 crore and Indian Institute of Information Technology at a cost of Rs. 110 Crore, both at Dharwad, Hubli.

7)Who approved the Credit Linked Capital Subsidy and Technology Up-gradation Scheme (CLCS- TUS) with a total outlay of 2900 crore rupees?

Ans:-CCEA

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Explanation:-Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA approved the Credit Linked Capital Subsidy and Technology Up-gradation Scheme (CLCS-TUS) with a total outlay of 2900 crore rupees. The scheme aims at improving the competitiveness of MSMEs by integrating various ongoing schematic interventions aimed at up-grading technology through Credit Linked Capital Subsidy (CLCS).

8)Kerala's Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV) was inagurated at;

Ans:-Thonnakkal

Explanation:-Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV), in Bio 360 Life Sciences Park at Thonnakkal in the capital city ,Thiruvananthapuram. This institute is linked to the Global Virus Network, which has 45 centres of excellence in over 29 countries. This institute is built with bio-safety level-3 facilities to detect virus like Nipah.

9)Who is the author of the book named "Undaunted: Saving the Idea of India" that is launched by Former Vice President Hamid Ansari in New Delhi?

Ans:-P Chidambaram

Explanation:-Former Vice President Hamid Ansari launched the new book of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram named "Undaunted: Saving the Idea of India" at Nehru Memorial Museum, New Delhi. The book is a collection of essays on the country's atmosphere of fear and how the constitutional values are being threatened.

10)Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal commissioned India's 1st Aqua Mega Food Park in which state?

Ans:-Andhra Pradesh

Explanation:-Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal commissioned Godavari Mega Aqua Food Park at Tundurru Village in Bhimavaram Mandal, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh through video conferencing. The park is promoted by Godavari Mega Aqua Food Park Pvt. Ltd. It will be the first Mega Aqua Food Park operationalised exclusively for fish and marine products processing in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The Godavari Mega Aqua Food Park Pvt. Ltd has been set up in 57.81 acre of land at a cost of Rs. 122.60 crores.

11)Which city hosted the third Indo-German Environment Forum?

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:- A Bilateral meeting between India and Germany 3rd Indo-German Environment Forum held in New Delhi. The outcomes of discussion made in Indo-German Working Group held in Delhi on 6th February 2019 taken up to higher alliance discussed in the forum. Additional Secretary of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Anil Kumar Jain called for strengthening the renewable alliances and climate between India and Germany as well as cooperation in field of environment. Delegates from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Federal Minister for Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) of Germany attended the Indo-German Working Group discussion. About Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Union Minister: Harsh Vardhan Minister of state: Mahesh Sharma.

12)Minister of State (IC) for AYUSH, Shripad Yesso Naik launched an online portal for Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy drugs and related matters at New Delhi. It was named as;

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Ans:-e-AUSHADHI

Explanation-Minister of State (IC) for AYUSH, Shripad Yesso Naik launched the e-AUSHADHI portal, for online licensing of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy drugs and related matters at New Delhi. This e-AUSHADHI portal is intended for increased transparency, improved information management facility, improved data usability and increased accountability. The Minister informed that timelines will be fixed for processing of application through this portal with SMS and e-mail status updates at each step of the process.

13)Which of the following State passed 5% quota to Gujjars and four other nomadic communities?

Ans:-Rajasthan

Explanation:-The Rajasthan Assembly unanimously passed a Bill giving 5% reservation in government jobs and education to Gujjars and four other nomadic communities. Gujjars are a pastoral agricultural ethnic group with populations in India, Pakistan, and a small number in northeastern Afghanistan.

14)Which organisation celebrates its 61st Foundation Day on 12th Feb?

Ans:-National Productivity Council

Explanation:-National Productivity Council (NPC) has commemorated its 61st Foundation Day as Productivity Day. NPC is celebrating National Productivity Week from 12th Feb to 18th Feb, 2019. The theme of this year's Productivity Day is "Circular Economy for Productivity and Sustainability". This is to signify a distinctive opportunity for circular business representative models for 'Make-Use-Return' for further economic prospects and revitalization of materials. The inauguration was organized to discuss the challenges, problems and repercussions from the execution of the circular economy which will augment productivity and create jobs. During the Productivity Week, workshops were organized in New Delhi and seminars were organized by regional Directorate of NPC at Kolkata, Guwahati, Chennai, Chandigarh and Bhubaneshwar.

15)The Centre has decided to set up a national law university in which of the following state?

Ans:-Uttarakhand

Explanation:-The Centre has decided to set up a national law university in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Trivendra Singh Rawat has announced that the national law university will be opened in Uttarakhand. This is a big step toward making Uttarakhand a quality education hub. India has 21 national law universities, admissions to which are held through a Common Law Admission Test (CLAT).

16)Which of the following will be the Mascot of National Games 2022?

Ans:-Clouded Leopard

Explanation:-The Sports and Youth Ministry in the meeting of Executive Committee of the National Games 2022 has chosen the Smiling Clouded Leopard to be the Mascot for the National Games 2022. Meghalaya will host the 2022 National Games, which is coinciding with its 50 years of statehood. Clouded Leopard is among the wild cats that live throughout the forests of Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills.

17)1st LAWASIA Human Rights conference 2019 was held in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

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Explanation:-LAWASIA, in association with the Bar Association of India hosted its 1st LAWASIA Human Rights Conference in New Delhi with a motive to explore a broad range of human rights issues of relevance in the Asia Pacific region, including Gender, Sexuality and Human Rights,New Technologies, Privacy and Mass Surveillance,Experiences and Challenges of Human Rights Lawyers,Aggressive Policing and Human Rights,Freedom of the Press in the Digital Age,Cross-border Migration & its Conflicts,climate Change, Water Conflicts & Human Rights and Business and Human Rights. This conference was inaugurated by ice President Shri. M. Venkaiah Naidu with the theme "State Power, Business and Human Rights: Contemporary Challenges".

18)The 3rd edition of Swachh Shakti-2019 was held at which of the following cities?

Ans:-Kurukshetra

Explanation:-The third edition of Swachh Shakti-2019 was held at Kurukshetra, Haryana on February 12, which was attended by woman sarpanches and women associated with the 'Swachhta' campaign from across the country. It is a national event to recognize the leadership role played by rural women in Swachh Bharat Mission towards achieving a Clean and Open Defecation Free (ODF) country by 2nd October 2019. Around 15,000 women participated in this year's Swachh Shakti event aimed at empowering the women. Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed the 'Swachh Shakti 2019' awards too. The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in association with the Govt. of Haryana organized the Swachh Shakti-2019. Best practices from grass root level in the rural areas for Swachh Bharat will be shared by them. The event will showcase the achievements of Swachh Bharat and the recently conducted Swachh Sunder Shauchalay, (neat and clean toilet) - a unique and first of its kind in the world campaign.

19)Recently, Indian Army carried an annual exercise named ______in Nashik.

Ans:-Topchi

Explanation:-Indian Army showcased its artillery firepower by using ultralight Howitzers and indigenous Swathi weapon-locating radar at the annual "Exercise Topchi". The exercise was held at Deolali Camp near Nashik. Aviation and surveillance capabilities were also showcased. There were a showcase of display of rockets, missiles, surveillance, and target acquisition radars, remotely piloted aircraft and hi-tech equipment in addition to gunfire. The precision displayed while delivering the explosives in the target area stunned all those present.

20)World's most famous goalkeeper Gordon Banks passed away at the age of 81. He belongs to which country?

Ans:-England

Explanation:-One of the world's most famous goalkeeper Gordon Banks passed away at the age of 81 in England. Gordon Banks was named as FIFA (The Federation Internationale de Football) Goalkeeper of the year six times and earned 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972. He won World Cup in 1966. Banks was suffering from kidney cancer for the second time since 2016. He was widely considered as one of the greatest goalkeeper of his generation.

Daily Current Affairs 15th February 2019

1)Who won Best Director From PETA for 'A Star Is Born'?

Ans:-Bradley Cooper

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Explanation:-Bradley Cooper awarded the 'Oscat' by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The animal rights organisation awarded Cooper for his enlightened decision to cast his own canine companion in 'A Star Is Born' rather than using one supplied by a notorious animal exhibitor.

2)Who is the winner under the Miniratna Category by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME)?

Ans:-NFDC

Explanation:-National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) was announced as the winner under the Miniratna Category by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in its campaign to felicitate CPSEs in recognition for their work in promoting SC/ST entrepreneurs. NFDC has funded over 300 films in various Indian languages which have been widely acclaimed and have won many national and international awards.

3)Who was appointed as an Election Commissioner by the President Ram Nath Kovind?

Ans:-Sushil Chandra

Explanation:-President Ram Nath Kovind appointed Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairman Sushil Chandra as an Election Commissioner. The post had fallen vacant after the appointment of the then Election Commissioner Sunil Arora as Chief Election Commissioner on superannuation of his predecessor O.P. Rawat in December 2018. Former bureaucrat Ashok Lavasa is the first and senior-most Election Commissioner. A 1980-batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) official, Mr. Chandra is an IIT graduate. His appointment comes weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

4)Who won the Player of the Series in the T20I series played between New zealand and India?

Ans:-Tim Seifert

Explanation:-New Zealand won the Twenty20 International (T20I) 3-match series at Seddon Park Ground, Hamilton, New Zealand beating India in the final match by 4 runs.New Zealand's wicket keeper-batsman, Tim Seifert, won the player of the series award. He scored 138 runs at a strike-rate of 173.75 and an average of 46.33 on the 3 matches. He also picked 3 catches as the wicketkeeper.

5)How many Indian startups joined Estonia e-residency scheme in 4 years?

Ans:-307

Explanation:-Around 307 Indian startups joined Estonia e-residency scheme in 4 yrs. India is at the 8th spot in terms of the number of companies set up. Started in 2014, e-Residency programme offers a government- issued digital identity that provides the applicant access to e-services in Estonia, including setting up of companies.

6)Which bank cleared the Divergence charges imposed by RBI?

Ans:-Yes Bank

Explanation:- The Reserve Bank of India cleared Yes Bank of Divergence charges i.e. disparity in reporting bad loans and provisioning numbers for the year ended March 2018. The final report has observed nil divergence in the bank's asset classification and provisioning from the norms of the RBI. In FY16, after its first assessment, Yes Bank was found divergence of Bad loans by RBI at Rs. 4,176 crore higher than the

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reported gross NPA of Rs. 748.9 crore. Further, in FY17, Yes Bank was found to be divergence again at Rs. 6,355 crore and reported gross NPA of Rs. 2,018 crore lower than RBI's estimation of Rs. 8,373 crore.

7)Which of the following will be notified as a heritage instrument of Goa?

Ans:-Ghumot

Explanation:-Ghumot is to be notified as a heritage instrument of Goa. The announcement was made by the Art and Culture Minister of Goa, Govind Gaude. Ghumot is an indigenous earthen drum fashioned as a designed clay pot, with the skin of the monitor lizard stretched taut across the pot's mouth, forming a drumhead. The monitor lizard was classified as an endangered wildlife species and was listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, Ghumot was banned by the Forest Department of Goa. Taking forward the efforts to conserve the heritage musical instrument the government of Goa is taking steps to declare Ghumot as the heritage musical instrument of Goa.

8)Which state CM announced a Universal Old Age Pension scheme, named Mukhya Mantri Vriddha Pension Yojana (MMVPY)?

Ans:-Bihar

Explanation:-Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar announced a Universal Old Age Pension scheme, named Mukhya Mantri Vriddha Pension Yojana (MMVPY), irrespective for all caste, community, religion, except for those who are retired from government organizations. The scheme facilitates the amount of Rs. 400 monthly pension for all in the state above the age of 60 who are not getting a pension from the government. The Chief Minister also announced a pension of 6,000 rupees for journalists above 60 years of age. Those who have been in regular service in the field of media and not getting any other pension will be eligible for Bihar Patrakar Samman Yojana (BPSY). The schemes will come into its enforcement from 1st April 2019.

9)Who won the 9th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship (B Division) held in Hisar, Haryana?

Ans:-Sports Authority of India

Explanation:-Sports Authority of India Won 9th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship (B Division) held in Hisar, Haryana. They defeated Hockey Chandigarh by 4-1 in the final. In 9th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship (A-division) Hockey Jharkhand beat Hockey Haryana for 2-1 in the final. The event concluded at Kollam Hockey Stadium, Kerala. Steel Plant Sports Board beat UCO Bank for 1-0 and secured third place in the match. Sarabdeep Kaur was the line scorer for Chandigarh in the final. 9th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2019 (A Division) is scheduled to be held from 8th to 18th February in Hisar, Haryana.

10)Which state government has recently banned the Popular Front of India (PFI)?

Ans:-Jharkhand

Explanation:-The Jharkhand government has recently banned the Popular Front of India (PFI) in the state to curb its anti-national activities and for keeping links with terror outfits like ISIS. According to the government notification, the PFI is banned with immediate effect under the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 1908. The decision to ban PFI has been taken after a review that its activities have increased and is dangerous to the state and the nation and it has the power to disrupt peace, communal harmony and secular structure. As per notification, the PFI has been involved in spreading social division, anti-India and pro-

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Pakistan slogans, and links with ISIS and JMB. The PFI is an extremist and militant Islamic fundamentalist organisation in India, formed as a successor to National Development Front (NDF) in 2006.

11)India-U.S. Commercial Dialogue and India-U.S. CEO Forum was held in ______.

Ans:- New Delhi

Explanation:-India and the United States held India-U.S. Commercial Dialogue and India-U.S. CEO Forum in New Delhi. Union Minister for Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu, chaired the meeting. The CEO Forum was co-chaired by Chairman, Tata Sons, N. Chandrasekaran and President and CEO of American Tower Corporation, Mr. James D. The MoU was signed between National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) of India and ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) of the United States for cooperation in matters related to accreditation.

12)With Which country, Indian Government signed a deal under Fast Track Procurement (FTP) to avail the Indian Army with 72,400 new 'Sig Sauer Assault Rifles'?

Ans:-US

Explanation:-The Indian Government has signed a deal with the US under Fast Track Procurement (FTP) to avail the Indian Army with 72,400 new 'Sig Sauer Assault Rifles' which will overhaul the army's inventory of frontline rifles. These Sig Sauer Assault rifles are 7.62*51 mm which are compact, robust, advance in technology and easy to maintain in field conditions. These new rifles will come at a cost of around Rs. 700 Crore and will be used by the army troops deployed along the 3,600 km China's border.

13)How many Indian Rafale fighters will participate in the 12th edition of Aero India 2019 air show?

Ans:-3

Explanation:-French aerospace major Dassault Aviation flew to India three Rafale fighters to participate in the 12th edition of Aero India 2019 air show from February 20-24. The biennial international expo is being held at the Yellahanka base of the Indian Air Force (IAF) near the Bengaluru international airport. India is buying 36 of the twin-engine, delta wing multi-role Rafale to replace the ageing Russian-made MiG-21 fleet of the Indian Air Force over the next four years.

14)Who among the following was named as the coach of U-23 Football team?

Ans:-Derrick Pereira

Explanation:-Derrick Pereira was named head coach of the India U-23 team for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Qualifiers slated to be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from March 22, ON Wednesday. Besides India, the other teams in the group are Tajikistan and Pakistan.

15)Where was the 2019 Australian Cricket Awards held?

Ans:- Melbourne

Explanation:-Off-spinner Nathan Lyon named Test player of the year at Australian Cricket Awards 2019 held in Melbourne, Australia. Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis won T20I and ODI Player of the year respectively. Nathan Lyon is only the second specialist bowler to bag the Test honour in the last decade. The first was fast bowler Mitchell Starc who won the honour in 2017. It is the second T20I honour in the career

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of Glenn Maxwell. He won the honour of the first time in 2015. The inaugural women's T20I Player of the year by Alyssa Healy.

16)The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has penalised Rs 2 million each for ______, Kotak Mahindra Band and IDBI Bank for non-compliance with respect to Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards.

Ans:-HDFC Bank

Explanation:-The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has penalised seven banks for not including public and private sector banks for not complying with various norms. HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Band and IDBI Bank were fined Rs 2 million each for non-compliance with respect to Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards. Allahabad Bank, Andhra Bank, Indian Overseas bank and Bank of Maharashtra were penalised for not following directions set by RBI on monitoring end use of funds, exchange of information with other banks, classification and reporting of frauds and restructuring of accounts. The penalty was Rs 10 million for Andhra Bank and Rs 15 million each for others. Bank of Baroda and Union Bank of India has imposed a penalty of Rs 1 crore each for violating various banking norms.

17)What is the Name of the First Ayush University that was inaugurated in Kurukshetra, Haryana?

Ans:- Sree Krishna Ayush University

Explanation:-The foundation stone for Sree Krishna Ayush University in Kurukshetra was laid by PM Narendra Modi. It is the first varsity related to the Indian system of medicine in Haryana.Sree Krishna Ayush University will provide treatment through Unani, Siddha, Yoga, Ayurveda and Homeopathic medical systems. It is also the first Ayush University in India.

18)The European Commission has recently added this country to dirty-money blacklist.

Ans:-Saudi Arabia

Explanation:-The European Commission has added seven countries including Saudi Arabia, Panama, and Nigeria to a blacklist of nations that fail to tackle money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The list now includes 23 jurisdictions, up from 16. Newcomers to the list are Libya, Botswana, Ghana, Samoa, the Bahamas and the four United States territories of American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. The other listed states are Afghanistan, North Korea, Ethiopia, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Syria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia and Yemen. Bosnia Herzegovina, Guyana, Laos, Uganda and Vanuatu were removed.

19)The Government of India and this state government signed a $40 Million Loan Agreement with World Bank recenty.

Ans:-Himachal Pradesh

Explanation:-The Government of India, Government of Himachal Pradesh (GoHP) and the World Bank signed a $40 Million Loan Agreement to help bring clean and reliable drinking water to the citizens of the Greater Shimla area, who have been facing severe water shortages and water-borne epidemics over the last few years. The Shimla Water Supply and Sewerage Service Delivery Reform Programmatic Development Policy Loan 1 is expected to improve water supply and sanitation (WSS) services in and around the iconic hill city of Shimla. The $40 Million Loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a 4-year grace period and a maturity of 15.5 years.

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20)What is the theme of the National Productivity day, that is observed on February 12, 2019?

Ans:-Circular Economy for Productivity and Sustainability

Daily Current Affairs 16th February 2019

1)Union Cabinet Chaired by Prime minister Narendra Modi approved setting up of New Viral Vaccine Manufacturing Unit in which state?

Ans:-Tamil Nadu

Explanation:-Union Cabinet approved the proposal for allotment of 30 acres of land to Pasteur Institute of India for establishment of New Viral Vaccine Manufacturing Unit at Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. The land for the project will be transferred free of cost and will also be changed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare from 'industrial' to 'institutional'.The project includes production of Anti Sera (like snake venom and Anti Rabies Sera) and Viral Vaccine (like TCA anti-measles vaccine, JE vaccine, etc.) at its manufacturing unit in Coonoor.

2)Maharashtra's UNICEF joined hands with this organisation for addressing issues in child protection.

Ans:-Women and Child Development, Goa

Explanation:-In order to focus on the issues in the area of chid protection in the state, the UNICEF in Maharashtra joined hands with Goa Women and Child Development (WCD). Discussion was held on "Key challenges around child protection in Goa" at a training programme on Integrated Child Protection Scheme(ICPS), by WCD, which saw the participation of Ms. Rajeshwari Chandrasekar, Chief Field Officer,UNICEF Maharashtra and Ms. Alpa Vora, Consultant, Child Protection, UNICEF. Issue of migrant children who face a whole lot of different problems linked with challenges of livelihood, alcoholism, etc., of their poor parents, or the children themselves were brought to light, among other issues.

3)Which of the following scheme of Andhra Pradesh State Government had amalgamated with the PM-Kisan Scheme inorder to furnish farmers with Rs.10000 annually?

Ans:-Annadatha Sukhibhava scheme

Explanation:-Andhra Pradesh has made a significant move by merging Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Portal with its own Annadatha Sukhibhava scheme. This move will further allow a fixed amount of Rs. 10,000 per annum to all farmers in the state, irrespective of the size of their land.The benefits will be facilitated in 2 portions of Rs. 5000 before the Kharif and Rabi crop cycle. Around 70 lakhs farmers will get advantage from this merger.PM-Kisan scheme will not only cover the marginalized farmers, but also the tenant farmers who will be facilitated with 'Cultivation Certificates' and 'Loan Eligibility Certificates' to avail the benefits of scheme.Other than Rs. 6000 per household which will given under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, farmers will also receive Rs. 4000 from Andhra Pradesh government, which will further benefit 54 lakhs farmers.

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4)Ashwani Lohani has been reappointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of which of the following company?

Ans:-Air India

Explanation:-Ashwani Lohani, former chairman of Railway Board, has been reappointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Air India for the second time after his previous tenure from August 2015 to August 2017. He will assume office from 14th February 2019, replacing Pradeep Singh Kharola, who is appointed as the new Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation.

5)Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) launched a new portal for real-time data on available depth on stretches of National Waterways. It was named as;

Ans:- LADIS

Explanation:-Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) launched a new portal Least Available Depth Information System (LADIS) for real-time data on available depth on stretches of National Waterways.

6)Where did PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the First ESIC Medical College and Hospital?

Ans:-Faridabad, Haryana

Explanation:-PM Modi inaugurated ESIC Medical College and Hospital at Faridabad which will provide good quality medical care to every citizen of the country.It is the first ESIC Medical College and Hospital in North India. The hospital is well equipped with state of art equipment, services, facilities, campus hostel for boys and girls, etc.The project costs around Rs. 595 crore. The 510 bedded hospital will provide medical facilities to the workers and their family members of the region.

7)Which Ministry had released the Publication on climate actions in India titled "India - Spearheading Climate Solutions" in NewDelhi?

Ans:- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Explanation:-Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr Harsh Vardhan released a Publication on climate actions in India titled "India - Spearheading Climate Solutions" in New Delhi. It refers to the vital actions India has taken under multiple sectors to combat and adapt to climate change. Major initiatives mentioned in the publications are National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change (NAFCC), Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP), State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC), International Solar Alliances (ISA), and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT).The Government aims to generate 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022. Advancement from Bharat Stage-IV to BHARAT Stage-VI emission standards by April 2020 have been undertaken to minimize the effect of climate change.

8)How many MoU's signed between India and Saudi Arabia on establishing a mechanism for Investment Infrastructure in India?

Ans:- 3

Explanation:-The Union Cabinet approved the 3 MoU's between India and Saudi Arabia. The Union Cabinet approved the MoU between India and Saudi Arabia on establishing a mechanism for Investment Infrastructure in India. The MoU provides for engaging with the institutions of Saudi Arabia to attract potential investment into the infrastructure sector of India. The aim is to boost the infrastructure

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development in India, creating more jobs, growing ancillary industries and finally lead to the growth in GDP and overall economic prosperity.

9)Where did the World Sustainable Development Summit 2019 held?

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2019, the flagship event of 'The Energy and Resources Institute' (TERI), was inaugurated by Vice President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The theme of WSDS 2019 was 'Attaining the 2030 Agenda: delivering on our promise'. Frank Bainimarama, Prime Minister of Fiji was honoured with the Sustainable Development Leadership Award 2019 for his outstanding contributions towards sustainable development in Fiji.

10)Hina Jaiswal becomes IAFs first woman flight engineer, she belongs to the which city?

Ans:-Chandigarh

Explanation:-Chandigarhs Hina Jaiswal becomes IAFs first woman flight engineer. She has completed the Flight Engineers' course at 112 Helicopter Unit and placed at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bangalore. She has served as the Chief of firing team and battery commander in a front line Surface to Air Missile squadron, before being selected for the the prestigious Flight Engineers' Course. The flight engineer branch was opened to woman officers in 2018.

11)Who has been appointed as the chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet?

Ans:-Pramod Chandra Mody

Explanation:-Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has appointed senior IRS officer Pramod Chandra Mody as chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). He will succeed Sushil Chandra, who was recently appointed Election Commissioner. He is 1982 batch Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax cadre). Prior to this appointment, he was a member in CBDT. Central Board of Direct Taxes is a nodal policy-making body of Income Tax (IT) department functioning under Department of Revenue, Union Ministry of Finance.

12)Who has won the Sustainable Development Leadership Award for year 2019 at WSDS?

Ans:-Frank Bainimarama

Explanation:-Frank Bainimarama, Prime Minister of Fiji, has been conferred with 'Sustainable Development Leadership Award 2019' at the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS-2019) in New Delhi. He won the award for his outstanding contributions towards sustainable development in Fiji. The summit reiterated India's vision for a greener tomorrow and to focus on energy transitions, clean oceans, mobilising development finance, environmental sustainability and sustainable mobility. Over 2000 delegates and speakers from over 40 countries participated in the summit. The summit was organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). At the event, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has collaborated with TERI to set up a Resource Efficiency Cell to help frame blueprint for national integrated resource efficiency policy. The cell will enable inter-ministerial and inter- departmental synergy in promoting material resource efficiency in India while helping frame the blueprint of the integrated resource efficiency policy for India.

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13)Who among the following has taken charge as the Chief of Staff at Eastern Naval Command, Vishakhapatnam?

Ans:-SN Ghormade

Explanation:-A National Defence Academy (NDA) graduate, Vice Admiral SN Ghormade took charge as the Chief of Staff at Eastern Naval Command, Vishakhapatnam. SN Gharmade was commissioned into Indian Navy on 1st January 1984 and he had assumed command of Guided Missile Frigate INS Brahmaputra, Submarine Rescue Vessel INS Nireekshak and Minesweeper INS Allepey in his 35 years long career. He was honoured by President of India with Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) on 26th January 2017 and Nau Sena Medal in 2007.

14)What is the theme of the Challachitram National Film Festival that is to be held Guwahati on March 1,2019?

Ans:-Our Heritage, Our Pride

Explanation:-Challachitram National Film Festival with the theme 'Our Heritage, Our Pride' will be held here in March, with a special award for entries from the northeastern region. Entries for short films, documentaries and animation films have been invited for both the competitive and non-competitive sections, a press release of 'Challachitram' said on Monday. The deadline for submitting entries is February 15. The three-day film festival will be held here from March 1. Chalachitram is a Guwahati-based organisation working for showcasing the heritage and culture of the northeast to national and international audience through films.

15)EU-India to fund ______Projects to deal with Water challenges.

Ans:- 7

Explanation:-India and the European Union made a decision to mutually invest up to 40 Million Euros on 7 Research and Innovation projects to tackle and handle immediate water challenges in the country. The projects which are selected will develop or adapt the most acceptable existing creative and affordable solutions for Indian conditions, both in rural and urban areas, to facilitate solutions to cope up with water challenges. 'Horizon 2020', EU's programme and Indian government will invest together on projects for average duration of 4 years. The main prime areas of the projects are to improve the quality of drinking water, wastewater management system and real-time monitoring and control systems. The project will brace India's Ganga rejuvenation initiative, transfer of European technologies to India to suit Indian needs.

16)India and Finland had signed agreement on cooperation with which of the following field?

Ans:-In the field of peaceful uses of outer space

Explanation:-The MoU between India and Finland on cooperation in the field of peaceful uses of outer space was given approval by the Union Cabinet.It includes provisions for exploring newer research activities and applications in the fields of Remote Sensing of the Earth, Satellite Communication, Satellite Navigation Space Science and Exploration of Outer Space.Provisions for Launching Finnish space objects by Indian launch vehicles, processing and using space data, use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cooperation around emerging new space opportunities are also included.

17) Cabinet approved MoU between India and ______for Tourism.

Ans:-Argentina

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Explanation:-On 13th February, 2019, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved various agreements with foreign governments in areas of terrorism, counter-terrorism and space. The signing of MoU between India and Argentina in the field of Tourism was approved by the Union Cabinet. The MoU is aimed at helping the two countries to create an institutional mechanism for enhancing cooperation in the Tourism sector.

18)Who will launch SPHEREx Mission to investigate Universe?

Ans:-NASA

Explanation:-NASA has announced a new space telescope mission dedicated to understanding the origins of life and the universe. It's called the Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer or SPHEREx, for short. The space agency is aiming for a 2023 launch. Once SPHEREx is in orbit, it will observe and collect data on over 300 million galaxies, some as far as 10 billion light-years away from Earth, and 100 million stars in our own Milky Way every six months. The space telescope's main goals, though, are to search for water and organic molecules within the Milky Way. It will also look for those ingredients of life in regions where stars are born.

19)Which organisation released World Employment and Social Outlook Trends 2019 report.

Ans:-International Labour Organization

Explanation:-The International Labour Organization released World Employment and Social Outlook Trends 2019 report. As per the report, unemployment rates will fall to 4.9% in 2019 and remains steady in 2020. Among the age group 15-24 the global unemployment stood at 11.8% which is much higher than it is among other age groups. In the global labor market, 2 billion out of 3.3 billion people worked keeping their economic security at risk in informal employment.

20)Early Ed Asia 2019, Asias largest early childhood conference, held in ______.

Ans:-Jaipur

Explanation:-Early Ed Asia 2019, Asias largest early childhood conference, held in Jaipur. It was the first time such a conference was held in India with over 6000 eminent early childhood educators, policy-makers, researchers and other stakeholders from India and foreign countries. The latest trends in teaching and research were discussed to provide a stronger foundation to the children. The motto of the event was 'Our Children. Our Future'.

Daily Current Affairs 17th February 2019

1)Who was the recepient of Ashoka Chakra for year 2019?

Ans:-Nazir Ahmad Wani

Explanation:-Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani has been posthumously awarded 'Ashok Chakra', India's highest peace time gallantry award for his role in a counter-insurgency operation in Kashmir in 2018. The award was presented by President Ram Nath Kovind to his wife Mrs. Mahajabeen at the 2019 Republic Day parade. Wani is the first Kashmiri to be conferred the Ashoka Chakra. He was also awarded Sena Medal for gallantry twice in 2007 and 2018 for his acts of valour. Wani was once a terrorist but had later turned in and joined the Army's 162 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) in Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in 2004. A resident of Cheki Ashmuji of Kulgam district in J&K, he lost his life in a counter-terror operation 'Operation Batagund' against six terrorists in Hirapur village near Batgund in Shopian on 25th November

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2018. Ashoka Chakra is the highest peacetime military decoration for valour, courageous action or self- sacrifice away from the battlefield.

2)Who was sworn in as US Attorney General for the second time?

Ans:-William Barr

Explanation:-William Barr was sworn in for second time as the new Attorney General of United States. Barr, who also served as the Attorney General from 1991 to 1993 during President George HW Bush's administration, succeeds Jeff Sessions.

3) India's first district cooling system to be built in ______, Andra Pradesh.

Ans:-Amaravati

Explanation:-United Arab Emirates (UAE) based international cooling provider, National Central Cooling Company PJSC (Tabreed) entered into a 30-year concession with Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) to build India's first district cooling system in Amaravati, Hyderabad. The agreement is for a contracted cooling capacity of 20,000 Refrigeration Tons (RTs) and will cater to the State's Assembly, High Court, Secretariat and other Government buildings currently being constructed, for which cooling services will start in early 2021. The district cooling system will help save 40% of the energy currently being used and reduce CO2 emissions, as it uses only 50% of the primary energy consumption for cooling urban buildings, thus, improving the air quality and reducing general noise levels when compared to other traditional air conditioning systems.

4)Which City topped and won the Swachhata Excellence Awards 2019?

Ans:-Raigarh of Chhattisgarh

Explanation:-Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) cities and municipal corporations of Raigarh (1st prize), Ambikapur (2nd prize) and Kumbakonam (3rd prize) won the top Swachhata Excellence Awards 2019. The prizes were awarded by Shri Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) at the Shehri Samridhi Utsav, an initiative organized by MoHUA in New Delhi.

5)Which among the following became the First US Bank with Cryptocurrency?

Ans:-JP Morgan Chase & Co

Explanation:-JP Morgan rolled out as the first US bank with cryptocurrency. The change in opinion of JP Morgan is the first step in the program of making it more competitive. The currency is designed to be decentralized so that no one has control over transactions being sent over the network. JP Morgan will be using the cryptocurrency to see its potential in using digital coins to reduce risk and enable instant transfers. Cryptocurrencies are used successfully to move money between bank and a client which usually runs on a blockchain technology. JPM Coin is not for retail customers . It will be used internally by the bank to enable instant transfers of payments between institutional accounts.

6) Who launched 'Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan' Scheme a pension scheme for the labours?

Ans:- Piyush Goyal

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Explanation:- Finance Minister Piyush Goyal, while presenting Budget 2019, on Friday announced the launch of a social security pension scheme for workers in the unorganised sector, called the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan. Under this scheme, workers of unorganized sectors whose monthly income is less than Rs. 15,000 may avail the benefits by contributing Rs. 100 per month to further get Rs. 3000 per month after 60 year of age. An 18 years old worker has to contribute Rs. 55 per month to avail the benefit. The scheme will facilitate the benefits up to 10 crore workers which include lower class workers, labor, plumber, mechanic, sweeper, construction workers, etc.

7)Union Minister of Defence, Nirmala Sitharaman signed a Security Protection agreement between India and this country recently.

Ans:-Sweden

Explanation:-Union Minister of Defence, Nirmala Sitharaman signed a Security Protection agreement between India and Sweden which will enable both the countries to share classified information each other. India and Sweden have been signing MoU in cooperation in the area of defence since 2009 and a bilateral meeting was held between both the nations in December 2018 in New Delhi. The agreement will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing. The agreement will boost 'Make in India' initiative by the Government of India. 'Make in India' is a type of Swadeshi movement launched by Government of India on 25th September 2014.

8)Indian Air Force to display firepower in which of the following state?

Ans:-Rajasthan

Explanation:-Indian Air Force is set to demonstrate its full combat and fire capabilities during 'Exercise Vayu Shakti-2019' in the Pokharan firing range close to Indo-Pak border in Rajasthan. Akash missile firing, gun firing from Advanced Light Helicopter and MiG 29's air-to-ground role will be demonstrated in the exercise. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to attend the event. Indigenously developed weapons, aircraft and equipment to be displayed include Akash midrange surface to air missile, Astra all weather beyond visual range air-to-air missile, Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Advanced Light Helicopter and Airborne Early Warning and Control systems. The fighter planes like MiG 29, Jaguar, Sukhoi-30, Mirage- 2000, transport aircraft like AN-32, C 130, Mi-17 VS and MI-35 helicopters will be among other aircraft used during the demonstration.

9)The 3rd Indo-German Environment Forum was held in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The 3rd Indo-German Environment Forum was held in New Delhi with the theme "Cleaner Air, Greener Economy". The one-day event focuses on challenges, solutions and necessary framework conditions of air pollution control, waste management and circular economy as well as implementation of NDCs and SDGs based on Paris Agreement and Agenda 2030 of UN respectively. Around 250 representatives of ministries, business and science as well as non-governmental organizations participated in the forum, which is organized by the two environment ministries in cooperation with the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business and the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The Forum provided a platform for the bilateral exchange of high-level policy-makers and other key players on international environmental and climate policy and cooperation between the two countries.

10)Who inaugurated 58th Meeting of Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) in New Delhi?

Ans:-Narendra Singh Tomar

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Explanation:-Union Minister of Mines, Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated 58th meetings of Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) held at Pusa in New Delhi. CGPB is under the nodal department of Geological Survey of India (GSI). During the season 20 mineral exploration reports worth Rs.79560 crore handed over to Odisha, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. GSI declared the launch of its freely downloadable base line data (geological, geochemical and geophysical) from their web portal from March 1, 2019. For search of mineral deposits GSI launched 2nd round of multi - sensor National Aero-geophysical data acquisition in 4 sectors within obvious Geological Potential (OGP) zones.

11)Name the Union Minister who inaugurated the North Karnataka Agromet Forecasting and Research Centre (NKAFC) in Dharwad, Karnataka.

Ans:-Dr. Harsh Vardhan

Explanation:-Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, inaugurated the North Karnataka Agromet Forecasting and Research Centre (NKAFC), India's first agromet forecast centre, at University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Dharwad, Karnataka. The main objective of the centre is to give accurate reports on weather which would enable the farmers to protect the crops and get good yield. It will also educate farmers on how to manage the crops in different weather conditions and help them anticipate and plan their actions in advance. About 25 lakh farmers in the region would be kept updated with information via various platforms like WhatsApp, SMS, social networking sites and community radio stations.

12)Which country recently agreed to join Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay to present joint 2030 FIFA World Cup bid?

Ans:-Chile

Explanation:-Chile president Sebastian Pinera has announced that Chile, along with Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, will bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Morocco could also bid for hosting the tournament. The 2022 World Cup is controversially set to be held in Qatar, with the United States, Mexico and Canada teaming up to host four years later.

13)Which state assembly has passed bill to end the minimum education criterion for panchayat and civic poll candidates, recently?

Ans:-Rajasthan

Explanation:-The Rajasthan Assembly has recently passed two Bills which seek to end the minimum education criterion for panchayat and civic poll candidates. The House passed by voice vote the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and the Rajasthan Municipality (Amendment) Bill, 2019. The previous Vasundhara Raje-led government had introduced education criterion in 2015 which required a candidate to pass Class X for contesting zila parishad, panchayat samiti and municipal elections. Defending the bill, Panchayati Raj Minister Sachin Pilot stated that the previous Act was against the basics of the Constitution. Society cannot be divided on the basis of education. He further stated that education criterion should first be introduced for contesting Assembly and parliamentary elections.

14)Name of the Union Minister, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna - Urban (PMAY-U) mobile application at New Delhi.

Ans:-Hardeep Singh Puri

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Explanation:-Union Minister of State (I/C) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna - Urban (PMAY-U) mobile application at New Delhi. The app will allow the beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna(Urban) to capture and upload high resolution photographs of completed houses along with their families and 30 - 60 seconds video clips to share their stories about owning a house under the scheme. Selected beneficiaries from all States/UTs would be invited as special guests at the anniversary celebration of PMAY (U). The PMAY(U) was launched with an aim to provide houses to every eligible urban household in India by the year 2022 and has achieved a milestone of approving over 73 lakh houses from about 1 crore validated demand.

Daily Current Affairs 18th February 2019

1)Who has been conferred the first ever Football Ratna honour by Football Delhi?

Ans:-Sunil Chhetri

Explanation:- Sunil Chhetri, the all-time leading scorer for India in international football, has been conferred the first ever Football Ratna honour by Football Delhi, the association governing the sport in Delhi. He is popularly known as Captain Fantastic. He has scored the 2nd highest number of goals in international matches among active players after Cristiano Ronaldo.

2)How many Coastal and Marine sites got identified under National Wildlife Action Plan, According to a biennial report?

Ans:- 106

Explanation:-According to a biennial report released by the government, the Centre has identified 106 Coastal and Marine sites as Conservation Reserves under its National Wildlife Action plan for the period of 2017-2031. This was the 2nd biennial updated report which was made by the Ministry of Environment and Forests and was submitted to the UN body on Climate change in December 2018. According to the report, India has been successful to sustain the ecosystem when it is at its edge of disappearing at an alarming rate. Also, it will further conserve the coastal and marine ecosystems from the impact of climate change. Both the coastal and marine areas facilitate with food baskets and fish protein to population, and also provide a valuable foreign exchange in turn.

3)Who released a book with compilation of 92 selected speeches of Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu, in New Delhi?

Ans:-Shri Pranab Mukherjee

Explanation:-Former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee released the book, which is a compilation of 92 selected speeches of Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu, in New Delhi. It contains the wide experience of the Vice President in Public Affairs. Mr. Mukherjee and Mr. Naidu also paid homage to the martyrs of Pulwama terror attack and said that the country must stand together to fight against terrorism.

4)What are the two new districts of Telangana, which started functioning from February 17, 2019?

Ans:-Narayanpet and Mulugu

Explanation:-The new districts - Narayanpet and Mulugu started functioning from February 17, 2019. Now, the number of districts in the Telangana rose to 33. Narayanpet has been carved out of Mahbubnagar district and Mulugu from Jayashankar Bhupalpally. Telangana had 10 districts when it came into being as India's 29th state on June 2, 2014, after it was carved out of Andhra Pradesh.

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5)According to Bloomberg, which country becomes the largest buyer of Venezuelan crude oil in February?

Ans:-India

Explanation:-According to Bloomberg, India's crude oil import from Venezuela jumped 66 per cent to 6,20,000 barrels a day. However, Venezuelan crude exports have plunged since the US imposed sanctions against the country's oil company.

6)Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated a school to improve the quality of education amongst tribal people. It was named as;

Ans:-Ekalavya Model Residential School

Explanation:-Prime Minister inaugurated the Ekalavya Model Residential School which has a capacity of 420 students in Nanded, in order to improve the quality of education amongst tribal people.The School is spread in 16 acres and equipped with modern facilities including provision for food, residential facility, playground and IT facilities.

7)Indian Wealth management company, Edelweiss and this bank signed an MoU to access each other product platforms, recently.

Ans:- Bank of Singapore

Explanation:-A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between Edelweiss and Bank of Singapore in order to form a strategic partnership. The MoU will provide an opportunity to clients of both entities to access each other product platforms.Edelweiss became the first Indian Wealth management company to sign an MoU with offshore private bank (Bank of Singapore).Bank of Singapore has signed similar MoU with financial companies from Switzerland and Japan.

8) Which group acquired broking license to enter Insurance Business?

Ans:- Indiamoney.com

Explanation:-Indiamoneyinsurance.com, a subsidiary of the Indiamoney.com Group has acquired a broking license from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) of India's to enter Insurance Business. Key points The company will come to process within the next few days and projects to hire 2000 employees before the year ends.

9)Which state passed the Official Language (Amendment) Bill 2019 to make Sanskrit the second official language in the state?

Ans:-Himachal Pradesh

Explanation:- The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed the Official Language (Amendment) Bill 2019 to make Sanskrit the second official language in the state. The bill was introduced in the Assembly by Irrigation and Public Health Minister Mahender Singh. Once given assent by the Governor, it will amend the Himachal Pradesh Official language Act, 1975. Now, Hindi is the official language of Himachal Pradesh. The Assembly also renamed Himachal Pradesh University of Health Sciences after former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

10)Which country has developed the first ant-like walking robot without GPS?

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Ans:-France

Explanation:- The researchers from the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) have developed the first ant-like walking robot 'AntBot' that can explore its environment and find its way home without Global Positioning System (GPS). The scientists took inspiration from desert ants, which are extraordinary solitary navigators, to design the AntBot. Ants use polarised light and ultraviolet radiation to locate themselves in space. Cataglyphis desert ants in particular can cover several hundreds of metres in direct sunlight in the desert to find food, then return in a straight line to the nest, without getting lost. AntBot copies the desert ants' exceptional navigation capacities, allowing it to explore without using GPS. The six- legged robot has an optical compass that uses polarised light to determine its direction, and an optical movement sensor directed to the sun to measure covered distance.

11) Who has been appointed director of South Africa's Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance?

Ans:- Faizel Ismail

Explanation:-Professor Faizel Ismail, an Indian-origin global negotiator, has been appointed as the director of a renowned academic institution in South Africa. He will take charge as the director of the University of Cape Town's (UCT) Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance from Professor Alan Hirsch in July 2019. Ismail is known for his role in negotiating major agreements for South Africa, including with the Southern African Customs Union as well as the Trade and Development Agreement with the European Union. He chaired the International Trade and Administration Commission from 2015 to 2018, and was reappointed for a five-year term till 2023. Ismail, a professor at the UCT's School of Economics, has in the past served as an ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and a senior advisor to the Minister of Trade and Industry.

12)Who won the Female Player of the Year in International Hockey Federation's (FIH) Players of the Year for 2018?

Ans:-Eva de Goede

Explanation:-Eva de Goede from Netherlands and Arthur van Doren of Belgium were titled the International Hockey Federation's Players of the Year for 2018 on 14th February 2019. Eva de Goede, 29, was named the Female Player of the Year and Arthur van Doren, 24, won the Male Player of the Year award for the second year in a row.

13)Who is the author of the book 'Simplicity & Wisdom' that was Launched by the Governor of West Bengal- Keshari Nath Tripathi and Swami Chidanand Saraswati?

Ans:-Dinesh Shahra

Explanation:-A book 'Simplicity & Wisdom' written by Dinesh Shahra was launched at Parmarth Ashram in Kumbh Mela. Launched by the Governor of West Bengal- Keshari Nath Tripathi and Swami Chidanand Saraswati, Head of Parmarth Ashram, this book is dedicated to Late Vedanti Swami Pragananandji. The book aims at guiding towards saintly wisdom and leading a content and happy life.

14)In which City does Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched laid foundation stone of Defence Corridor?

Ans:-Jhansi

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Explanation:- PM Modi on his visit to Jhansi laid foundation stone of Defence Corridor which will create a lot of direct and indirect employment to the youth in the region. Government decided to establish 2 defence corridors in the country, one at Tamil Nadu and the other in Uttar Pradesh. Jhansi is one among six nodal points of the UP defence corridors.The Defence Corridor will make India independent in defence production. The project will also attract many foreign and domestic Defence related companies to invest in the region.

15)India has boosted the Customs Duty on all the goods imported from Pakistan to how much percent?

Ans:-200%

Explanation:-India with immediate effect has boosted the Customs Duty on all the goods imported from Pakistan to 200% followed by the day after India repealed Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status from Pakistan. This punitory move followed by the Pulwana Terrorist attack that led to the death of 42 CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force). This step is likely to strike Pakistan's exports to India which were $381 million in the April-Nov period and for overall FY18, it was $489 million. This 200% tariff rate is higher than the average bound rate of 113.5% for agriculture products and 34.6% for non-agriculture products. The MFN applied rates are 32.8% and 10.7%, respectively for farm and non-farm products.

16) Who among the following won the Martin Ennals Award 2019,International human rights prize in Geneva Switzerland?

Ans:- Abdul Aziz Muhamat

Explanation:-Sudanese refugee, Abdul Aziz Muhamat, who spent 5 years in Australian detention centre on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea, was given the Martin Ennals Award 2019 in Geneva, Switzerland, for exposing "the very cruel asylum seeker policy of the Australian Government". He said that his name was stripped off and he was referred to as number- QNK002 and prisoners were fed through a chain-link fence and treated worse than animals.It was the first time that the prize focused on the plight of refugees and awarded to someone who has suffered violations due to the policies of a Western nation.

17)Which cricket team clinches the The Irani Cup Title in Nagpur?

Ans:-Vidarbha cricket team

Explanation:- Vidarbha became the only 3rd team in Indian Domestic Cricket history after Bombay and Karnataka to defend their Irani cup titles at Jamtha Stadium in Nagpur by defeating rest of India. Vidarbha chased a target of 280 runs on the day and young Karnewar was the Player of the match.

18)'InfyTQ' a digital platform to facilitate engineering students with best learning experiences by imparting technical and professional skills was launched recently. It was launched by;

Ans:-Infosys

Explanation:-Infosys, the country's 2nd largest IT firm has launched a next-generation digital platform 'InfyTQ' to facilitate engineering students with best learning experiences by imparting technical and professional skills. InfyTQ is a free platform available on both mobile and desktop, featured with always-on, anytime, anywhere learning catered through a continuous transfer of digital skills.

19)Which company signed an agreement to acquire Germany's Nielsen+Partner (N+P)?

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Ans:-Larsen & Toubro Infotech Ltd

Explanation:-Larsen & Toubro Infotech Ltd. (LTI) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Germany's Nielsen+Partner (N+P), an independent Temenos WealthSuite specialist, for Euro 28 million on a cash-free, debt-free basis, which includes upfront consideration and a performance-based earn-out. N+P is a leading partner of Temenos in Europe and APAC with subsidiaries in Luxembourg, Switzerland, Thailand, Singapore and Australia and branch office in Belgium.

Daily Current Affairs 19th February 2019

1)Third Indian entry NGO Yuwa won the Laureus Sports for Good Award. This belongs to the state of;

Ans:- Jharkhand

Explanation:-Jharkhand based NGO Yuwa won the Laureus Sports for Good Award. Yuwa works for girl empowerment and became the third Indian entry to receive this honour. Yuwa prepares girls to break the cycle of poverty permanently. The program has used team sports and education to build character, confidence and courage among girls. Yuwa was founded in 2009 by Americans Franz Gastler and Rose Thomson. It runs a football program in rural Jharkhand with 450 girls. In 2004, Indian Cricket team and Pakistan counterpart shared Laureus Award for the first time and recently by Magic Bus in 2014.

2)Which bank will pay Rs 28,000 Crore as Interim Dividend to the Government?

Ans:-RBI

Explanation:-The Reserve Bank has announced that it will transfer an interim surplus of 28,000 crore rupees to the central government for the half-year ended 31st December 2018. The central bank follows a July-June financial year and usually distributes the dividend in August after annual accounts are finalised. With this interim transfer, the government will get a total of Rs 68,000 crore from the central bank in the current fiscal. The RBI had transferred Rs 40,000 crore to the government in August 2018. This will be the highest receipt from RBI in a single financial year for the government, exceeding the Rs 65,896 crore it received in FY16 and Rs 40,659 crore in FY18. A committee headed by former Reserve Bank of India governor Bimal Jalan has been set up to review RBI's economic capital framework.

3)Which cybersecurity company launched 'Email Fraud Protection' to help organizations block fraudulent emails from reaching enterprises?

Ans:-Symantec

Explanation:-Global cybersecurity company Symantec has launched 'Email Fraud Protection', an automated solution, to help organizations block fraudulent emails from reaching enterprises. It aims to reduce workload for IT departments and eliminate the need to manually manage email security configurations while combating Business Email Compromise attacks. The solution is now available as part of Symantec's Email Security Solution and Integrated Cyber Defence Platform. With this solution, email authentication standards are met by automatic monitoring of approved third-party senders.

4)Which country signed the Framework Agreement of the International Solar Alliance with India?

Ans:-Argentina

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Explanation:-Argentina signed the Framework Agreement of the International Solar Alliance with India. The agreement was signed by Argentina's Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie in the presence of ISA's Director- General Upendra Tripathy. The agreement of the International Solar Alliance was opened for signature during the 22nd Conference Of Parties at Marrakech on November 15, 2016. Argentina is the 72nd country to sign the Framework Agreement of the ISA. International Solar Alliance: It aims to provide a common platform to address the specific solar technology deployment needs of the solar resource-rich countries located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn ISA targets to achieve the production 1 TW of solar energy by 2030. It also targets to produce 100 GW of solar energy by 2022

5)Who conducted mega exercise 'Vayu Shakti' in Pokhran, Rajasthan?

Ans:-Indian Air Force

Explanation:-Indian Air Force conducted mega exercise 'Vayu Shakti' in Pokhran, Rajasthan. The exercise was carried out day and night where the IAF showcased firepower capability of indigenously developed platforms and efficacy of missiles. For the first time, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALP) and the Akash surface-to-air missile were deployed in the military exercise. MiG-29 fighter jet also participated in the exercise. The capability of Griffin Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) a laser-guided bomb system was also showcased in the exercise. The honorary group captain of the IAF, Sachin Tendulkar was present during the exercise.

6)Who inagurated Rs 768.46 crore cost of Ret Medium Irrigation project recently?

Ans:-Naveen Patnaik

Explanation:-Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Odisha,inaugurated and laid foundation stones for numerous development projects amounting to Rs 2,114 crore in Kalahandi district on 16th February 2019. Ret Medium Irrigation project which is constructed at a cost of Rs 768.46 crore, as stated officially.The project is expected to benefit 79 villages by providing them with irrigation facility for 8500 hectares of agricultural land under the four blocks of Bhawanipatna, Kesinga, Narla and Lanjigarh in the district. The chief minister also released Rs 15,000 each to 11,122 women self-help groups as seed money, Rs 25 lakh each to 14 block-level Mahasanghs, Rs 3000 each to 9836 SHGs as digital empowerment assistance under the ongoing Mission Shakti programme.

7)Who organised a 2-day workshop on "Committee of Creditors: An Institution of Public Faith" in Mumbai?

Ans:-IBBI

Explanation:-The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), organised a 2-day workshop on "Committee of Creditors: An Institution of Public Faith" on 15-16 Feb,19 in Mumbai. It was the first of its kind organised jointly with State Bank of India (SBI) & Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA). Dr. MS Sahoo (Chairperson-IBBI) & Mr. Rajnish Kumar (Chairman-SBI) were some of the faculty members.

8)Who inaugurated the 4th Agri Leadership Summit 2019 at Haryana?

Ans:-Radha Mohan Singh

Explnation:-Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer's Welfare, Radha Mohan Singh, inaugurated the 4th Agri Leadership Summit 2019 at the India International Horticulture Market (IIHM) in Ganaur, Sonipat district, Haryana. It was a 3-day summit. The theme of the summit was "Entrepreneurship & Agri-Business; Agri Allied - A Promising Sector and Agri Service- Direct Marketing". President Ram Nath Kovind

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addressed the closing ceremony of the summit. He launched Digital Kisan Platform. He also conferred Krishi Ratna Puraskar on Vice Chancellor K. P. Singh of Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar and honoured 9 farmers with the Kisan Ratna Puraskar.

9)Which country recently rejected an appeal by US Vice President Mike Pence to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal?

Ans:-Germany

Explanation:-German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has rejected an appeal by US Vice President Mike Pence for Europeans to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying it's fundamental for security. Pence criticised the initiative of France, Germany and Britain to allow European companies to continue operating in Iran despite US sanctions. About 2015 Iran nuclear deal: Iran nuclear deal - formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) In 2015, Iran agreed a long-term deal on its nuclear programme with the P5+1 group of world powers - the US, UK, France, China, Russia and Germany. Under the deal, Tehran acceded to a 10-year restriction on nuclear production. As of May 2018, there was broad consensus that Iran has abided by the agreement. On May 8, 2018, United States President Donald Trump announced the United States was withdrawing from the deal.

10)Tennis player Elise Mertens has claimed the Qatar Open 2019. She belongs to which country?

Ans:-Belgium

Explanation:-Belgium's Elise Mertens has claimed the Qatar Open 2019 title held at Doha, Qatar. She defeated the top seed Simona Halep of Romania and secured 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 . In the 2019 edition, the Men's Singles was won by R.Bautista Agut of Spain by beating T. Berdych of Czechoslovakia. About Elise Mertens: Currently, Mertens ranks 21 in the world rankings Mertens has won five singles and six doubles WTA titles as well as 24 1TF titles.

11)M C Mary Kom was named as women's training Ambassador for which of the following brand?

Ans:- PUMA

Explanation:- German sports and lifestyle brand PUMA has appointed the 6 time world champion woman M C Mary Kom as its new brand ambassador. Mary Kom is now PUMA India's new ambassador for their women's training category and will be representing the brand in marketing campaigns. Mary Kom will steer brand's advertising campaign #DoYou that aims to motivate women across the nation to be strong and accomplish their goals. The association was facilitated by IOS sports and Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. which primarily entitles Mary Kom.

12)Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma inaugurated India's very first 'Fulldome 3D Digital Theatre' in which city?

Ans:- Kolkata

Explanation:-Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma inaugurated India's very first 'Fulldome 3D Digital Theatre' at the Science City in Kolkata, West Bengal. It has a 23-metre tilted dome to offer a fully immersive experience to the visitors and is capable of screening high resolution, full dome, and digital 2D/3D content by utilising 6 high-end projectors in a 23-meter diameter dome using Ulteria Seam technology.

13) Which country planned to send an unmanned spacecraft to collect data to be shared with NASA?

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Ans:- Israel

Explanation:- Israel is to launch its first moon mission, sending an unmanned spacecraft to collect data to be shared with NASA. According to a report, the 585-kilogram Beresheet (Genesis) spacecraft is to lift off atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. Mission control will be in Yehud, near Tel Aviv.

14)Which Ministry has recently published a guidelines to establish charging station for EV (Electric Vehicles) at every 25 km to outline the ways to build fueling points?

Ans:- Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs

Explanation:-The ministry of Housing and Urban affairs has published a set of guidelines to establish charging station for EV (Electric Vehicles) at every 25 km to outline the ways to build fueling points. This necessity of instituting charging stations has arrived as government expects that 25% of road vehicles will be electric by 2030. Norms and standards of Electric vehicles will be incorporated by the building byelaws agencies of the respective guiding documents of the state government and union territories. For making provisions for establishing EV infrastructures, Ministry has made amendments to the guidelines of MBBL (Model Building Bye laws), 2016 and URDPFI (Urban Regional Development Plans Formulation and Implementation), 2014.

15)Who has won the women's singles event at the 83rd Senior National Badminton Championships 2019?

Ans:-Saina Nehwal

Explanation:-In badminton, Saina Nehwal won her fourth title at the Yonex-Sunrise 83rd Senior National Badminton Championships 2019 in Guwahati. In the final, she defeated P.V.Sindhu by 21-18, 21-15 in Guwahati. Its her fourth title. Sourabh Verma completed a hat-trick of titles, claiming the men's singles crown after defeating young Lakshya Sen in straight games of 21-18, 21-13. Earlier, the pair of Pranaav Jerry Chopra and Chirag Shetty outclassed top seed duo Arjun M.R and Shlok Ramachandran in straight games of 21-13, 22-20 to clinch the Men's Doubles title.

16)Which country has won the team event at the first Mallakhamb World Championship 2019?

Ans:-India

Explanation:-India emerged as winners in the team event of First Mallakhamb World Championship was held in Shivaji Park in central Mumbai in which India became the winner. This sport involves athletes performing various yogic and gymnastic poses while hanging from a rope or on a pole. 15 countries participated in the event- Spain, Germany, Czech Republic,Italy, USA, Iran, Norway, England, France, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, Bahrain, and India.

17)Who became the first woman to climb Agasthyarkoodam peak in Kerala?

Ans:- Dhanya Sanal K

Explanation:-Bureaucrat Dhanya Sanal K. became the first woman to climb Agasthyarkoodam peak in Kerala. There was an unofficial ban for women to trek the peak which was swept aside by Kerala High Court. Agasthyarkoodam peak is a 1868 metre high mountain peak within Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. It is a pilgrimage centre as of Hindu Puranas for the devotees of Agasthya. Agasthya is considered as the father of Tamil language and the Malayalam language is said to be born from him.

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18)Name the west Indies cricket player who has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs).

Ans:-Chris Gayle

Explanation:-West Indies batsman Chris Gayle has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after the forthcoming World Cup in England and Wales. He has scored 9727 ODI runs which is only 677 runs less than the highest scorer Brian Lara. Chris Gayle, a Jamaican cricketer who plays International cricket for the West Indies was born in September 21, 1979. His ODI debut was in 1999 against India. He had the first ever World Cup double century against Zimbabwe 4 years ago. Gayle hit 231 ODI centuries in his career.

19)Batswoman, Smriti Mandhana and ______conferred Maharashtra State Government's Shiv Chhatrapati Award in Mumbai.

Ans:-Uday Deshpande

Explanation:-Mallakhamb coach, Uday Deshpande, and batswoman, Smriti Mandhana, were awarded the Maharashtra State Government's Shiv Chhatrapati Award by the State's Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao at an event held at the Gateway of India, Mumbai. Among the other award recipients are hockey player Suraj Karkera, paddler Sanil Shetty, track and field athlete Siddhant Thingaliya, who specialises in 110 metres hurdles, runner Monika Athare and squash player Mahesh Mangaonkar.

20)The 40th International Annual Desert Festival was held in ______.

Ans:-Jaisalmer

Explanation:-The 40th International Annual Desert Festival held on the sand dune in Jaisalmer with thousands of tourists participating in the colourful event. The 3-day festival, which exhibits the rich cultural heritage of the desert state, commenced with a colourful procession from Gadsisar lake fort. It had interesting events like Mr. Desert and Ms. Moomal competitions, mustache competitions, turban tying, musical and cultural performances, among others. Folk artists also gave their enthralling performance.

Daily Current Affairs 20th February 2019

1)Which of the following company signed a deal of USD 1.5 billion to buy US crude oil?

Ans:-Indian Oil Corporation

Explanation:-Indian Oil Corporation(IOC), has signed its very first annual deal to buy U.S. crude oil, paying USD 1.5 billion for 60,000 barrels a day beginning April 2019 to March 2020 to diversify its crude sources. IOCL is the first Indian state refiner to buy U.S. oil under an annual contract, in a deal that will also help boost trade between New Delhi and Washington.

2)Who was the Former interim President and former Afghan mujahideen commander passed away at the age of 93?

Ans:-Sibghatullah Mojaddedi

Explanation:-Sibghatullah Mojaddedi, former Afghan mujahideen commander passed away in Kabul at the age of 93, owing to prolonged illness. He played a significant role in fighting the Soviets and went on to

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become the interim President of the country after the collapse of the Afghan communist regime in 1992.He died three days before the 30th anniversary of the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.

3)AntBot is the first walking robot to have navigational capabilities without GPS or mapping. Who designed it?

Ans:-CNRS & AMU

Explanation:-AntBot is the first walking robot to have navigational capabilities without GPS or mapping. It has been designed by French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and Aix-Marseille University researchers at ISM, on lines similar to desert ants who use polarised lights and UV radiation to navigate in space. It consists of an optical compass which determines its movements by the help of a polarised light. An optical movement sensor directed to the sun is used to measure the distance covered. It provides a precision of up to 1 cm after covering a total distance of 14 metres. It has six feet to enhance mobility and facilitate movements in complex environments. Celestial compass is used to measure its heading with precision by cloudy or clear weather.

4)Union Minister of Textiles, Smriti Zubin Irani inaugurated Muga silk seed production centre in which state?

Ans:-Meghalaya

Explanation:-Union Minister of Textiles, Smriti Zubin Irani, launched four projects in North East for the development of silk sector through video conference in New Delhi. Smriti Zubin Irani inaugurated Muga silk seed production centre in Tura, Meghalaya, silk printing and processing unit in Agartala, Tripura, Eri spun silk mill in Sangaipat, Imphal and development of sericulture in Mamit, Mizoram. The Minister also inaugurated new office building of Weavers Service Centres (WSC) in Indore, Madhya Pradesh and Kannur, Kerala. Muga Silkworm Seed Production Centre (SSPC), Tura, Meghalaya is one of the projects taken up directly by Centre Silk Board(CSB) for implementation under Integrated Sericulture Development Project (ISDP) of NERTPS for creation of seed infrastructure units in NE States.

5)Who launched a pan-India number: 112 for Women Safety along with Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi?

Ans:-Shri Rajnath Singh

Explanation:-Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi launched a range of citizen safety initiatives in New Delhi. It includes the Emergency Response Support System, ERSS, for women safety in 16 states and Union territories. The service has already been launched in Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland. Persons in distress can dial a pan-India number: 112. Under this system, all the states have to set up a dedicated Emergency Response Centre, ERC. A citizen may Press the power button on a smartphone thrice quickly to activate a panic call to ERC. In case of a feature phone, long press on number 5 or 9 on the phone keypad will activate the panic call.

6)Trip Protector insurance policy was launched by;

Ans:-HDFC ERGO

Explanation:-The first-of-its kind 'Trip Protector' insurance policy was launched by HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company which is the third-largest non-life insurance provider in the private sector in India. The policy states In case a flight or a hotel booking is cancelled, travellers will be safeguarded financially against the cost of cancellation levied on them by the respective hotels or airlines for both domestic and

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international travel. In instances wherein travellers are refused accommodation on arriving at the hotel due to overbooking, the policy will provide cover against cancellation of a pre-booked room. Initially, this policy is being offered to customers of HDFC Bank on the purchase of Airline tickets or Hotel Bookings done using their HDFC Bank credit cards. The policy will allow customers to choose between refundable and non-refundable tickets. Refundable tickets shall be paid for in case of cancellation.

7)Who among the following becomes first woman president of Astronomical Society of India?

Ans:-GC Anupama

Explanation:-The Astronomical Society of India will be presided over by a woman, GC Anupama for the first time in its history. She will succeed RK Tyagi and has been elected to this post for a tenure of 3 years. She currently holds the position of dean and senior professor at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore. She is a part of the team involved in the 'Thirty Meter Telescope' (TMT) project in Hawaii.

8) Who won a Professional Photographer of the Year title in the 7th National Photography Awards?

Ans:- Shri SL Shanth Kumar

Explanation:- Union Minister of State (IC) for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore presented the 7th National Photography Awards in a function organized at National Media Centre in New Delhi. The theme for the Professional category was "Women led Development", while the theme for Amateur category was "Fairs and Festivals of India". Shri SL Shanth Kumar conferred with the title Professional Photographer of the Year. Shri Ashok Dilwali for Lifetime Achievement Award & Shri Gurdeep Dhiman for Amateur Photographer of the Year. A total of 13 awards were given comprising of one Lifetime Achievement Award with cash prize of Rs.3,00,000; one award each in Professional Photographer of the Year category and Amateur Photographer of the Year category with cash prize of Rs.1,00,000 and Rs.75,000 respectively; and 5 Special Mention Awards in both Professional and Amateur categories with cash prize of Rs.50,000/- and Rs.30,000/- each respectively.

9)India's first drainage-cleaning robot Bandicoot was introduced in ______, Tamil Nadu.

Ans:- Kumbakonam

Explanation:-Bandicoot, a drainage-cleaning robot, has been introduced for the first time in India at the Kumbakonam city corporation as part of efforts to rid of manual scavenging at the cost of Rs 18 lakh in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is a semi-automatic robot can enter manholes for cleaning sewage lines with its robotic arm and is equipped with 5 night-vision cameras to relay the scenario underneath. Drainage cleaning could be detected by viewing the blockages on the screen.

10)Sandeep Mohan Bhatnagar and Ashok Kumar Pandey was appointed as the members of this organisation, recently.

Ans:-CBIC

Explanation:-Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) appointed 2 senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officers, Sandeep Mohan Bhatnagar and Ashok Kumar Pandey as its members. Ashok Kumar Pandey is a 1983-batch Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Central Excise) officer and Sandeep Mohan Bhatnagar is a 1984-batch IRS officer.

11)Which country recently submits formal bid to host 2032 Olympics?

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Ans:-Indonesia

Explanation:-Muliaman Hadad, Indonesia's ambassador to Switzerland, submitted a formal bid letter from President Joko Widodo to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne. If Indonesia wins the opportunity to host the summer Olympics 2032, it would become the fourth Asian country to do so, after Japan, South Korea and China India has also expressed an interest in hosting the 2032 games while North and South Korea announced that they might enter a joint bid. The IOC will announce the 2032 host by 2025. The next Olympics will be in 2020 in Tokyo, while Paris will host it in 2024 and Los Angeles in 2028.

12)Which company launched a new micro insurance plan Micro Bachat?

Ans:-Life Insurance Corporation of India

Explanation:- A new microinsurance plan 'Micro Bachat' was launched by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India. It provides coverage of up to 2 lakhs and is the first micro-insurance plan to do so. It provides both protection and savings and is a regular premium, non-linked, participating endowment microinsurance plan. In case a policyholder dies, this plan would provide financial assistance to the family. For surviving policyholders, a lump sum amount at the time of maturity shall be provided It can be availed only by standard healthy citizens in the age group of 18-55 years without undergoing any medical examination.

13)India's First Hi-Tech Forensic Lab NCFL and CyPAD inagurated in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Cyber Prevention Awareness and Detection (CyPAD) Centre and the National Cyber Forensic Lab (NCFL) were inaugurated by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and LG Anil Baijal in Dwarka, New Delhi. To spread awareness among school students and teachers, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has started a popular Twitter handle @CyberDost.

14)The Finane Minister of this state presented the Rs 1,58,493 crore state budget for FY 2019-20.

Ans:-Punjab

Explanation:-Punjab State budget of Rs. 48,663.90 crore was presented by Finance Minister Prakash Pant who described it as a balanced budget by prioritising education, health, agriculture, employment generation in rural areas, infrastructure, housing and urban development. It is said to be a surplus budget with the total expenditure for the Financial Year 2019-20 standing around 48,663.90 crore and total earnings for the period around Rs 48,679.43 crore. Interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 lakh shall be provided to poor and small farmers. Interest-free loans amounting to Rs 5 lakh shall be given to self-help groups involved in agro- related activities. Rs 1,341 crore have been allocated to agriculture and horticulture in the budget while Rs 3,141.34 crore have been allocated to rural development and Panchayati Raj department. Rs 2,545.40 crore have been allocated for medical health, family welfare and medical education while Rs 1,073 crore for the education sector.

15) Name the American military veteran and novelist who passed away recently.

Ans:-W.E.B. Griffin

Explanation:-American military veteran and novelist, William E. Butterworth III, better known as W.E.B. Griffin passed away at the age of 89. He joined the army at the age of 17 and has served in the Korean War. He wrote more than 200 books under the pen name W.E.B. Griffin and various other names and sold

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millions of copies. His most popular series include "Badge of Honor", "Clandestine Operations" and "Presidential Agent".

16)Which union minister launched an initiatve SWAYATT to promote Start-ups, Women and Youth Advantage Through eTransactions on Government e Marketplace (GeM) in New Delhi?

Ans:-Suresh Prabhu

Explanation:- Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu, launched SWAYATT in New Delhi. SWAYATT is an initiative to promote Start-ups, Women and Youth Advantage Through eTransactions on Government e Marketplace (GeM). This will bring together the key stakeholders within the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem to Government e-Marketplace the national procurement portal. On this occasion, Commerce Minister also dedicated GeM Start-up Runway-an initiative of GeM in association with Start-up India to facilitate Start-ups registered with Start-up India to access the public procurement market and sell innovative products and services to government buyers.

17)The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi unveiled development projects worth Rs. 3350 crores for which of the following city?

Ans:-Varanasi

Explanation:-The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi unveiled development projects worth Rs. 3350 crores for Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. These projects pertain to various sectors of Health, Sanitation, Smart City, Connectivity, Power, Housing and others. PM distributed certificates to the beneficiaries of various schemes. He released commemorative postage stamp on completion of 100 Years of IIT BHU. He also inaugurated BHU Cancer Centre and Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Lahartara.

18)Who is the author of Banned Punjabi Poem 'Khooni Vaisakhi' on the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre to be published in English after 99 years?

Ans:-Nanak Singh

Explanation:-The banned Punjabi poem 'Khooni Vaisakhi' on the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre which was written by Punjabi writer Nanak Singh in 1919, will be published next month by Harper Collins in English. The poem was presented at Jallianwala Bagh on 13th April, 1919 by Nanak Singh also known as 'Father of Punjabi Novels' But this poem was banned by the British after its publication in 1920 as this poem was a blasting critique of the British. After so many years, this poem was rediscovered and was translated to English by Navdeep Suri. To mark the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, this poem will be published by Harper Collins.

19)India and this country signed an MoU on the Reciprocal facilitation of procedures for issue of Business Visa.

Ans:-Morocco

Explanation:-The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi apporoved some important cabinets on 20th Feb, 2019. It includes MoU between India and Morocco on the Reciprocal facilitation of procedures for issue of Business Visa and also to Facilitate Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications. Agreement on Proposed Participation of India in PISA. Implementation of the "National Rural Economic Transformation Project under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). Creation of one post of Secretary and one post of Joint Secretary in the newly created Department of Fisheries.

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20) Which country unveiled its semi-heavy submarine named "Fateh" recently?

Ans:-Iran

Explanation:-Iran's President Hassan Rouhani unveiled the first Iranian made semi-heavy submarine named "Fateh" ("Conqueror" in Persian), capable of being fitted with missiles. It has subsurface-to-surface missiles with a range of about 2,000 km (1,250 miles) and is capable of reaching Israel and U.S. military bases in the region. A homegrown defence industry has been developed by Iran, since 1992, which produces light and heavy weapons ranging from mortars and torpedoes to tanks and submarines.

Daily Current Affairs 21th February 2019

1)Who was named World Sportsman of the Year in 2019 Laureus World Sports Award?

Ans:-Novak Djokovic

Explanation:-The Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsman of the Year is an annual award honoring the achievements of individual men from the world of sports. It was first awarded in 2000 as one of the seven constituent awards presented during the Laureus World Sports Awards. Novak Djokovic was named World Sportsman of the Year and United State gymnast Simone Biles was named Sportswoman of the Year at the 2019 Laureus World Sports Awards, while Tiger Woods won the World Comeback of the Year award.

2)Union Minister for Tourism K.J. Alphons inaugurated the project 'Development of Eco Circuit' in which state?

Ans:-Kerala

Explanation:-K.J. Alphons, Union Minister for Tourism inaugurated the project 'Development of Eco Circuit: Pathanamthitta - Gavi - Vagamon - Thekkady' under the Swadesh Darshan scheme of Ministry of Tourism at Vagamon, Kerala. This Eco Circuit project was sanctioned in December 2015 for Rs. 76.55 crores. Major works carried out under the project includes Eco Adventure Tourism Park at Vagamon, Cultural Centre at Kadamanitta.

3)PM Modi flagged off 1st ever Diesel to Electric Conversion Locomotive in ______.

Ans:-Varanasi

Explanation:-Under 'Make in India' initiative, Indian Railways has created history by converting a diesel locomotive into electric locomotive for the first time in the world. This all new converted energy-efficient electric locomotive has been flagged off by PM Narendra Modi in Varanasi. In a first of its kind notable initiative, the diesel locomotive which has been converted to electric locomotive by the Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW) in Varanasi. The entire project is an Indian R&D innovation for the entire world, says Indian Railways. The converted electric locomotive delivers 10,000 HP against 2 X 2612 HP of two diesel locomotive (92 percent more power). A 10,000 HP of haulage power is adequate to haul a load up to nearly 5300 Tonnes, providing around 2:1 HP to trailing load ratio.

4)When did International Mother Language Day observed?

Ans:-21st February

Explanation:-International Mother Language Day has been observed every year on 21st February since February 2000 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. This year, International

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Mother Language day 2019 will be framed by the International Year of indigenous languages 2019 (IYIL19) around the theme "Indigenous languages matter for development, peace building and reconciliation".

5)Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Rabindra Adhikari has inagurated a 'Festival of India' in which of the following place?

Ans:-Kathmandu, Nepal

Explanation:-A month-long 'Festival of India' began in Kathmandu, Nepal, to familiarise the new generation of the country about the similarities between the two countries. Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Rabindra Adhikari and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri jointly inaugurated the event.

6)The World Day of Social Justice is celebrated all over the world on 20 February. The theme of 2019 World Day of Social Justice is;

Ans:-If You Want Peace & Development, Work for Social Justice

Explnation:-The World Day of Social Justice is celebrated annually all over the world on 20 February. The theme for WDSJ 2019 is "If You Want Peace & Development, Work for Social Justice". The International Labour Organization unanimously adopted the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization on 10 June 2008.

7)Which country is planning to build its first space-based solar power station, orbiting 36,000 kilometres above ground?

Ans:-China

Explanation:-China is planning to build its first space-based solar power station, orbiting 36,000 kilometres above ground, to capture solar energy in orbit and beam it to the Earth. Chinese scientists reportedly plan to build solar power stations and launch them into the stratosphere between 2021 and 2025. The beams would be converted into power through ground station, reports added.

8)Which state CM introduced KALIA Chhatra Bruti for the children of farmers?

Ans:-Odisha

Explanation:-'KALIA Chhatra Bruti' scholarship for the children of farmers benefited under the KALIA scheme was launched by the Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. It aims at providing financial assistance for technical and professional education to farmers' children by creating a provision for the State government to bear all expenses involved in various levels of education. The scholarship shall be sent directly to the bank accounts of students who require it via. DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).

9) Tele-law mobile application 'Nyaya Bandhu' was launched by ______.

Ans:-Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad

Explanation:-A tele-law mobile application 'Nyaya Bandhu' was launched by the Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. The application will benefit 73,000 paralegal volunteers (PLVs) of National Legal Service Authority and State Legal Services Authorities (SLSA) in the country who will be associated under Tele- Law service.

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10)Which state police inducted India's first humanoid robot 'KP-BOT' into their force?

Ans:-Kerala

Explanation:-Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inducted India's first humanoid robot 'KP-BOT', gendered female, into the Kerala Police force at the rank of Sub-Inspector (SI). It'll receive the visitors & direct them to different places according to their needs.

11)Who inaugurated the three days Conference on the VISION ZERO in Mumbai?

Ans:-Shri Heeralal Samariya

Explanation:-Heeralal Samariya, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment inaugurated the three days Conference on the VISION ZERO and its relevance to Occupational Safety and Health was held in Mumbai. The Conference has been organized by Directorate General Factory Advice and Labour Institutes (DGFASLI), Ministry of Labour and Employment, German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV), Germany.

12)The 4th India-ASEAN Expo and Summit begins in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The 4th India-ASEAN Expo and Summit started in New Delhi. This is a flagship event of Department of Commerce, being organized with FICCI to carry forward the momentum and to further strengthen India-ASEAN relations under the Act-East Policy. The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises of Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, Cambodia and Brunei. India's relationship with ASEAN is a key pillar of our foreign policy and the foundation of our Act-East Policy.

13)Anirban Mukherjee was appointed as the CEO of this company recently.

Ans:-PayU

Explanation:-Anirban Mukherjee, presently the co-chief executive of Reliance Payments has been appointed as the CEO of PayU India. The urgent responsibilities at hand would be the management of $100 million worth of business, witnessing a growth rate of 30% currently, formulating investment plans and gauging potential technological partnerships.

14)Which state government has recently constituted a Transgender Welfare Board (TWB)?

Ans:-Gujarat

Explanation:-The Gujarat government has formed a special board for the transgender community to provide social security to the community. As a state-run agency, the 'Transgender Welfare Board (TWB)' will have powers to introduce special schemes for the community. It will work for uplift and development of the transgender community. The new board will have the state social justice and empowerment minister as its chairman. It will have 16 other members, including two transgender-women representatives, two male transgenders, two from the eunuch community and two representatives of NGOs. The rest of the members will be government officials. The Supreme Court has recognized transgenders as a third gender in 2014 on a petition filed by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and had directed all states to form a TWB. The judgment also ruled that 'third gender' be included in the Other Backward Classes' (OBCs) list, hence allowed them to avail education and employment reservation in accordance to this status.

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15)Union Cabinet recently approved a hike in Dearness Allowance to central government employees from 9% to ______%.

Ans:-12%

Explanation:-Dearness Allowance (DA) to central government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners has been increased from 9% to 12% with effect from January 1, 2019. This move will benefit 48.41 lakh central government employees and 62.03 lakh pensioners. The combined impact on the exchequer on account of both DA and DR would be Rs 9,168.12 crore per annum and Rs 10,696.14 crore in 2019-20 (for a period of 14 months from January 2019 to February 2020). Previously, the Cabinet had increased dearness allowance in March 2018, from 5% to 7% in accordance with the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).

16)This country conferred Sushma Swaraj with 'Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit'

Ans:-Spain

Explanation:- Spanish Government presented this award to India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in recognition of India's support in evacuating 71 Spanish nationals during April 2015 Nepal earthquakes. The Operation Maitri (Hindi word for Amity and Friendship) was a rescue and relief operation in Nepal launched by the Modi government and Indian armed forces in the aftermath of the April 2015 Nepal earthquake.

17)Which of the following country became the 73rd nation to sign the International Solar Alliance?

Ans:-Saudi Arabia

Explanation:-Saudi Arabia became the 73rd nation to sign the International Solar Alliance. ISA was unveiled by PM Narendra Modi and former French President Francois Hollande in 2015. The move came at Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visit to India

18)Which ministry launched Operation Digital Board to provide better digital education in school?

Ans:-Ministry of Human Resource Development

Explanation:-The Human Resource Development (HRD) Ministry launched Operation Digital Board on the lines of Operation Blackboard to provide better digital education in school. The government has aimed at equipping 9 lakh classrooms in schools and colleges across the country (7 lakh classrooms of 9th, 10th and 11th standards and 2 lakh classrooms of colleges and Universities) with digital facilities for teaching by 2022.

19)Which state government has decided to host the 79th session of Indian History Congress (IHC)?

Ans:-Madhya Pradesh

Explanation:-The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to host the 79th session of Indian History Congress (IHC) at Barkatullah University in Bhopal from February 26 to 28, 2019. The 79th session was earlier supposed to be held at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) from December 28 but was cancelled due to financial reasons. Over 1,000 delegates including prominent historians are expected to participate in the IHC. This will be 2nd time Madhya Pradesh will host IHC after it was held earlier in 2011. IHC is the largest professional and academic body of Indian historians with over 10,000 members. It was

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established in 1935 and its first session was held at Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Pune. Its primary objective is to promote and encourage scientific study of Indian history.

20)Where did a regional conference on 'Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS)' held?

Ans:-Kolkata

Explanation:-A regional conference on 'Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS)' was organised in Kolkata, West Bengal. DDRS is a scheme implemented by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. DDRS was established in 1999 by the Government of India. It is a central government scheme. Under this scheme, monetary help is provided to around 600 NGOs which work in the field of education and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.

Daily Current Affairs 22th February 2019

1)The Future of Indian Banking conference was organised by;

Ans:-NITI Aayog

Explanation:-Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, inaugurated a conference on "The Future of Indian Banking" with the Foundation for Economic Growth and Welfare (EGROW Foundation). The conference aims to increase and elevate the discourse on the banking sector in India, and help develop insights to inform the continued evolution of the Indian banking sector for optimally supporting the growing credit needs of the Indian economy.

2)Which country unveiled the world's first female AI news anchor?

Ans:-China

Explanation:-Chinese news agency Xinhua unveiled the world's first female AI news anchor Xin Xiaomeng. She has been developed in collaboration with Sogou Inc, a search engine company. Earlier, Xinhua also developed Qiu Hao, the world's first male AI news anchor at the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen held in November 2018, who is capable of mimicking human facial expressions and mannerisms while reading out news-reports.

3)Name the SuperComputer that was unveiled in IIT-BHU by Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

Ans:-Param Shivay

Explanation:-PM Narendra Modi inaugurated supercomputer 'Param Shivay' at IIT-BHU.The supercomputer of 833 teraflop capacity built at the cost of Rs 32.5 crore. Additional Information: India's first supercomputer called PARAM 8000 was launched in 1991. He released commemorative postage stamp on completion of 100 Years of IIT BHU.

4)Which of the following flight recently set new World record by reaching a record ground speed of 1,289 kmph?

Ans:-Virgin Atlantic

Explanation:-Virgin Atlantic flight from Los Angeles to London reached the ground speed of 1289 km per hour, which is faster than the speed of sound (1234.37 km per hour). In 2018, a Norwegian Air flight broke records by peaking at 1248 kmph.

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5)Which Ministry sponsored the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) AIIMS, New Delhi for their report on "Magnitude of Substance Use in India"?

Ans:-Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

Explanation:-A report "Magnitude of Substance Use in India" by National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi sponsored by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment was submitted to the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot in Delhi. A"National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India"was conducted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment through the NDDTC of AIIMS, New Delhi in both the national and stated levels.Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot stated that in order to deal with the issue of drug abuse and to formulate guidelines and prepare an action plan, the State governments and all other stake holders including NGOs and drug de-addiction centres will be consulted.

6)The Supreme Court appointed whom as the first ombudsman under the new BCCI.

Ans:-Justice D.K. Jain

Explanation:-The Supreme Court appointed a retired judge of the court Justice D.K. Jain as the first ombudsman under the new BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) Constitution approved by the court in a judgment. Bringing a quietus to the quibbling between the Committee of Administrators (CoA) which runs the BCCI and the State bodies that form the Board, a Bench of Justices S.A. Bobde and A.M. Sapre decided to take things into their own hands on the advice of amicus curiae and senior advocate P.S. Narasimha.

7)Attaukal Ponkala festival, world's largest religious congregation of women was hosted by which of the following city?

Ans:-Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Explanation:-Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala shall host the "Attaukal Ponkala" festival-one of the largest religious gathering of women on a single day.The festival involves preparation of 'Pongala'- a mixture of rice, jaggery and scraped coconut cooked in fresh earthen or metal pots, by lakhs of women, in order to worship the presiding deity of Attukal Bhagavathy temple. All the offices and institutions across the city observe a holiday on this day.

8)Who is the head of Group of Ministers (GoM) on the affordable housing category?

Ans:-Nitin Patel

Explanation:-A Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, which has favoured 3% on the affordable housing category, down from 8%, has submitted its report to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council for taking it up and decide on it in the meeting to be held on 20th February 2019. The Council might also consider reducing tax on cement from 28%to 18% to boost the realty sector in the meeting.GST is currently levied at 12%on premium housing and 8% on affordable housing on payments made for under-construction properties, where completion certificate has not been issued at the time of sale.No GST is charged if a property is bought after the issue of completion certificate.

9)Which IT company tops in the global Top Employer as per the report of Top Employers Institute?

Ans:-TCS

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Explanation:-Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) ranked by the Top Employers Institute as global Top Employer for the third year in a row. It is the only firm among the top 10 IT services brands which has received this certification. TCS has the most employee-friendly workplace policies, good work culture and has done large investments for the skill development of its 4.17 lakh employees globally. It has also been tagged as the number one top employer in four regions- North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East and as a top employer in 29 other nations.

10)Who won the Gold medal in Men's 49 Kg category in 70th International Boxing Tournament Strandja 2019 held at Sofia, Bulgaria?

Ans:-Amit Phangal

Explanation:-70th International Boxing Tournament Strandja 2019, hosted by European Boxing Confederation(EUBC) was held at Sofia, Bulgaria. Russia topped the medals tally with 9 medals (5 Gold and 4 Bronze), followed by India at 2nd rank with 7 medals (3 Gold, 1 Silver, 3 Bronze) and USA at 3rd with 8 medals (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 5 Bronze).Asian Games Gold medallist, Amit Phangal, claimed a second successive Gold by defeating Kazakhstan's Temirtas Zhussupov by pulling off a dominating 5-0 triumph in the Men's 49 KG category.Former junior world champion, Nikhat Zareen (Women's 51 KG) and Meena Kumari Devi (Women's 54 KG),became the first set of Indian Women Boxers to clinch Gold medals in Sofia.Manju Rani (Women's 48kg) settled for a Silver after being defeated by Josie Gabuco of Philippines.Pwilao Basumatari (Women's 64kg), Neeraj (Women's 60kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (Women's 69kg) had settled for Bronze medals.

11)Which Indian Personality was conferred with the Seoul Peace Prize in South Korea?

Ans:-Shri Narendra Modi

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Seoul Peace Prize during his two-day visit to South Korea. The award was first announced by the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation in October 2018. Former Secretary-General of the United Nations Kofi Annan and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are among previous recipients of the award.

12)ICC banned UAE Coach Irfan Ansari from all forms of Cricket for the period of ______years.

Ans:-10 Years

Explanation:-International Cricket Council (ICC) banned(United Arab Emirates) UAE-based coach Irfan Ansari for a period of 10 years, from all forms of Cricket as he was found guilty of making a "corrupt approach" to Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed in 2017. ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of breaching three counts of the Anti-Corruption Code during a hearing.

13)8-time world champion, Squash queen Nicol David set to retire at the end of the 2018-19 Professional Squash Association (PSA). She belongs to the country of;

Ans:-Malaysia

Explanation:-Malaysian squash queen, 35-year-old and 8-time world champion, Nicol David, announced that she will be retiring at the end of the 2018-19 Professional Squash Association (PSA) season in June 2019. She had a successful career with 81 PSA titles from 102 finals and held the World no. 1 spot for a record 109 months consecutively from 2006 to 2015.

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14)Where did Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the River Front Development project during his state visit to Bihar?

Ans:-Patna

Explanation:-PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the River Front Development at Patna and the Patna City Gas Distribution Project(CGD). Patna River Front, unveiled by the PM,includes 16 ghats, 1 crematorium, 4.9 km promenade, community-cum-cultural centre, audio-visual theatre and eco centre build at a cost of 243.27 crore. He inaugurated the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in Patna and first phase of the Jagdishpur - Haldia & Bokaro - Dhamra Natural Gas Pipeline Project (JHBDPL), popularly known as 'Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga'. The foundation stone of Phase 1 of 'Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga' had been laid by the Prime Minister in July 2015 in Patna and the section from Phulpur - Dobhi - Barauni with spurlines to Patna&Varanasi of length 585 km has been completed.

15)______and Hughes India signed an agreement for Helicopter SATCOM Solutions.

Ans:-BEL

Explanation:-Navratna Defence PSU, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Hughes India have entered into a Teaming Agreement for design, development, supply, installation, integration and commissioning of Satellite Communication solutions for helicopters under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India at Aero India 2019, Bengaluru. Director (Marketing), BEL, Ms Anandi Ramalingam and President, Hughes India Shri Partho Banerjee signed the MoU in the presence of Director (Other Units), BEL, Shri Nataraj Krishnappa.

16)Name the Indian Who has been appointed as the president of the AIBA Foundation?

Ans:-Ajay Singh

Explnation:-Ajay Singh, president of the Boxing Federation of India has been selected as the president of the Foundation Board for Better Boxing of AIBA (International Boxing Association). He has been elected to the post for a tenure of 4 years. AIBA formed the Foundation Board for Better Boxing in the last meeting of its Executive Committee to formulate an action plan for global development of the sport in future.

17)Which of the following telescopes has recently helped to discover 300000 new galaxies?

Ans:-LOFAR

Explanation:-An international team of more than 200 astronomers from 18 countries has published the first phase of a major new radio sky survey at unprecedented sensitivity using the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) telescope in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics. The survey discovered 3,00,000 hidden galaxies using radio astronomy in a tiny corner of the northern hemisphere at low radio frequency. It is believed that these findings will help shed new light on some of the Universe's deepest secrets. This includes the physics of black holes as well as research into how galaxy clusters evolve. The LOFAR telescope is operated by ASTRON in The Netherlands and is considered to be the world's leading telescope of its type. It is made up of a network of radio antenna across seven countries, forming the equivalent of a 1,300-km diameter satellite dish. It is capable of detecting light source beyond the power of optical instruments. Radio astronomy allows scientists to detect radiation produced when massive celestial objects interact.

18)Which two countries signed an MoU to establish a business center for ICT incubators?

Ans:-India and Sri Lanka

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Explanation:-India and Sri Lanka signed an MoU to establish a business center for ICT incubators in Jaffna (a city in Sri Lanka) through the grant of 25 crore Sri Lankan rupees from India. The MoU was signed by High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Mr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, and Secretary, Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade Mr. S. T. Kodikara in Colombo in presence of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe.

19)This company has received the production of 114 'Dhanush' artillery guns recently.

Ans:-Ordnance Factory Board

Explanation:-A clearance for bulk production of 114 'Dhanush' artillery guns has been received by the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). It is the first long-range artillery gun to be produced in India. It portrays the success story of the 'Make in India' initiative. It has an inertial navigation-based sighting system, auto-laying facility, on-board ballistic computation and an advanced day and night direct firing system. Its self- propulsion unit allows it to negotiate and deploy itself in mountainous terrains with ease.

20)The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a scheme for Farmer's welfare. It was named as;

Ans:-KUSUM

Explanation:-The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the launch of 'Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan' (KUSUM Yojana) with the objective of providing financial and water security to farmers. The Central Government will provide a total financial support of Rs 34,422 crore for the scheme.

Daily Current Affairs 23th February 2019

1)National Conference on Logistics Policy was held in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The "National Conference on Logistics Policy: Context, Issues & The Way Forward" was held in New Delhi from 19th to 20th February, 2019. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu, addressed the first stakeholder consultation on the draft logistics policy prepared by the Department of Logistics of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. He also launched the SAFAR Mobile App, on this occasion. It will help to gauge the actual issues faced by transporters on the road. It will track the incidence of a number of parameters faced by transporters and automatically record the location of the issue. Transporters, truck drivers, and general public may use the app for reporting their logistics issues to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The app is available in 8 languages.

2)Who was awarded the Lifetime achievement award on the 114th Rotary Day celebration of Vijayawada?

Ans:-Nori Dattatreyudu

Explanation:-The Rotary Club of Vijayawada is going to present a 'Lifetime achievement award' Nori Dattatreyudu as part of its 114th Rotary Day celebration. He is a world-renowned radiation oncologist and Padma award winner. Dr. Dattatreyudu is currently professor and executive vice-chairman of the The New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medicine Radiation Oncology Department in New York. Born in Krishna district the oncologist did his schooling in Machilipatnam, under-graduation in Kurnool Medical College

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and postgraduation in Osmania Medical College. The award will be presented to him at a function held in Vijayawada.

3)With which state government IIFL Home Finance signed an MoU for building houses under PMAY?

Ans:-Maharashtra

Explanation:-An MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between IIFL Home Finance and the Maharashtra government for building affordable houses through credit-linked subsidy scheme (CLSS) under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Through this MoU, the Housing Department of Maharashtra will provide permissions and enable IIFL Home Finance (IIFL HFL) to spread awareness among customers about the benefits of PMAY through presentations, counselling, calls and messages.

4)Where did Defence Ministry approved the acquisition of more than 100 heavyweight torpedoes?

Ans:- Mumbai

Explanation: In a major boost for the Navy's firepower, the Defence Ministry has approved the acquisition of more than 100 heavyweight torpedoes which will be equipped on the force's six Scorpene-class submarines being built at Mazagon Dockyards in Mumbai. The French-origin Scorpene submarines are being built in India at Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) and have now been named the Kalvari class. The first boat of the class called INS Kalvari has already been inducted into the Navy and is carrying out operational duties.

5)SpaceX launched Israel's first moon lander, "Beresheet", from Florida It's total weight is;

Ans:-585 kg

Explanation:-Israel's first moon lander, the 585 kg "Beresheet" ("Genesis" in Hebrew), was launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket from the private US-based SpaceX in Florida, United States. At a cost of USD 100 million, it is the lowest-budget spacecraft to ever undertake such a mission. It is part of renewed global interest in the Moon, sometimes called the "Eighth Continent" of the Earth. The project is funded almost entirely by donations making it the first privately backed lunar lander mission.It was notably financed by businessman and philanthropist Morris Kahn. Other partners include Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Israel's space agency and Israel's Ministry of Science and Technology. Beresheet carries a "time capsule" loaded with digital files containing a Bible, children's drawings, Israeli songs, memories of a Holocaust survivor and the blue-and-white Israeli flag. Landing is the main mission, but the spacecraft also carries a scientific instrument to measure the lunar magnetic field, which will help understanding of the Moon's formation.

6)Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited and this company signed the Rs.580 crore contract to provide power supply for Phase II.

Ans:-Alstom

Explanation:-Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) awarded Alstom a Rs.580 crore contract. The contract is to provide power supply and traction electrification for the 33-kilometre extension to Bangalore Metro under Phase II. This contract from BMRCL is Alstom's largest third-rail electrification contract in India. Phase II encompasses extension of Bangalore Metro's existing north-south and east-west corridors.

7)The 2019 edition of Medical Fair India (MFI) has started in ______.

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Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The 2019 edition of Medical Fair India (MFI) was kick started in New Delhi in which global medical device manufacturers, healthcare experts, industry bodies, think tanks and policy makers from over 25 countries are participating. The 3-day medical trade show 'MFI' is organised by Messe Dusseldorf India, a fully owned subsidiary of Messe D sseldorf GmbH, the world's leading trade fair organiser and exhibitions service provider. The MFI is well known for its ability to detect trends and respond to new innovations. Therefore, each edition is unique as it explores new sub-segments and opportunities for diversification. It will act as a platform for healthcare experts and stakeholders to share and discuss tangible solutions to diverse healthcare bottlenecks, challenges and issues of concerns.

8)Name the president who has declared a year-long state of emergency, dissolving his cabinet and local governments throughout the country.

Ans:-Omar al-Bashir

Explanation:-Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has declared a year-long state of emergency, dissolving his cabinet and local governments throughout the country. Omar al-Bashir in a televised address called on Sudan's parliament to postpone constitutional amendments that would allow him to run for another term in a presidential election in 2020. Since December 2018, various areas in Sudan, including the capital Khartoum, have been witnessing popular protests over the deteriorating economic conditions and price hikes of basic commodities.

9)When did World Thinking Day observed?

Ans:-22nd February

Explanation:-Every year, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides celebrate the World Thinking Day on 22nd February. The theme of World Thinking Day 2019 is 'Leadership'. The aim is to learn the different ways to be a leader and develop the power to bring the change a person wants to see in the world. The day is significant as it was the birthday of Scouting and Guiding founder Lord Robert Baden-Powell and of Lady Olave Baden- Powell, his wife and World Chief Guide.

10)The Odisha Cabinet approved a scheme to provide free sanitary napkins to school girls across the state. It was named as;

Ans:-Khushi

Explanation:-The Odisha Cabinet approved the 'Khushi' scheme to provide free sanitary napkins to school girls across the state. The scheme will benefit nearly 17.25 lakh school girls from Class VI to XII studying in government and government-aided schools. The state government will spend INR 466 crore over a period of 5 years to implement the scheme.

11)The 16th Russia-India-China (RIC) Foreign Ministerial Meeting is scheduled to be held in ______.

Ans:-Wuzhen

Explanation:-The 16th meeting of the Russia-India-China (RIC) Foreign Ministers would be held at the Chinese city of Wuzhen in the eastern Zhejiang province on February 27. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will participate in the meeting together with the host Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The Ministers are expected to exchange views on the global situation,

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regional developments of common concern, address global challenges such as terrorism and discuss trilateral exchanges and activities. The meeting assumes significance as it will be the first high-level interaction between India and China after the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in which 40 CRPF soldiers were killed on February 14. China has expressed shock over the incident, but reiterated its stand to block moves to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN's 1267 Sanctions Committee. The last RIC Foreign Ministerial Meeting had been held in New Delhi on 11 December in 2017.

12)Mithi Kranti Yojna a new scheme launched in the state of;

Ans:-Jharkhand

Explanation:-A new scheme launched in the state named as Mithi Kranti Yojna in which the Jharkhand government has given approval for the scheme of 100 crores for the launch of the sweet revolution. In the first phase, after giving training to the state government 1207 farmers, they are now giving a unit of rupees one lakh rupees for beekeeping. It is giving a grant of 80 thousand rupees, while you will get a payment of 20 thousand rupees. In this way, a farmer can earn Rs. 1 lakh 30 thousand annually by investing 20 thousand rupees.

13)Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti inagurated the First Mega Food Park Of this state recently.

Ans:-Tripura

Explanation:-Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, inaugurated Tripura's first mega food park named Sikaria Mega Food Park Pvt Ltd at Village Tulakona in Agartala. It has been set up by Kolkata-based Sikaria Mega Food Park Private Ltd. on 50 acres land provided by Tripura Industrial development corporation Ltd.

14)The Central Board of Direct Taxes formed a committee to help bring Down Tax Litigation. The committee was headed by;

Ans:-Sanjeev Sharma

Explanation:-The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) formed a 4-member committee, headed by income tax commissioner Sanjeev Sharma, to look into the matter of taxation related pain points and submit its final report and recommendations by mid-March. It will tackle the issue by addressing some current pain points and recommending some steps borrowed from international best practices.

15)An Interactive Forum between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of India and Russia was held in Bengaluru. It was addressed by which Union Minister?

Ans:-Suresh Prabhu

Explanation:-An Interactive Forum between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of India and Russia was held in Bengaluru and was addressed by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu for working to address and resolve trade and investment issues to facilitate and increase private sector cooperation. India has already announced setting up of a fast track, single-window mechanism for Russian companies which would be chaired by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Secretary. This mechanism would be in addition to the Russia Desk that had been set up to promote Russian investment in India. SMEs being less informed about the schemes that exists in both the countries, a need to curate a digital bridge between the economies so that SMEs can benefit from it was addressed.

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16)Srei Equipment Finance and this bank jointly collabrated to provide equipment financing under co-lending arrangement.

Ans:-Syndicate Bank

Explanation:-Srei Equipment Finance, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Srei Infrastructure Finance, has collaborated with Syndicate Bank to provide equipment financing under co-lending arrangement for various equipment categories like construction, mining, material handling, commercial vehicles, medical and farm equipment. The arrangement requires Syndicate Bank to utilise its low-cost funds and co-lend equipment loans with Srei at a rate which has been mutually agreed on. It has been done under the aegis of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular dated September 21, 2018 that allows banks to collaborate with non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) to co-originate loans for the creation of assets for priority sector. Loans under this programme will be sourced by iQuippo a Kanoria Foundation initiative- India's first digital marketplace for construction equipment, machinery and services.

17)Who inagurated 'Waste to Wonder Park', that was built by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC)?

Ans:-Rajnath Singh

Explanation:-Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new park which houses the replicas of seven wonders of the world at South Delhi. The park, which is called the 'Waste to Wonder Park', was built by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC). It is the first-of-its-kind tourist attraction in the world, with the replicas of seven wonders of the world. The replicas of all seven wonders of the world have been built with eco-friendly, self sustainable material, and has its own solar and wind power generation.

18)Who has been elected as the new Vice-President of the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF)?

Ans:-Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad

Explanation:-Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad from India has been elected as the new Vice-President of the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) for a four-year term at the AHF Congress in Gifu, Japan. Beside him, Ms. Asima Ali has been elected unopposed as one of the executive board members of the AHF. Mushtaque Ahmad is currently serving as the President of Hockey India, while Ali of Hockey Jammu & Kashmir is the Vice- President of the national federation. The AHF Executive Board manages the affairs of the continental federation, implements the decisions of the AHF Congress, supervises over the AHF CEO and professional staff, as well as appoints the AHF Committees.

19)What was the theme of the 8th World Corporate Social Responsibility Congress?

Ans:-Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)

Explanation:-World Corporate Social Responsibility Congress (World CSR Congress 2019) is one of the admired meetings which promote Entrepreneurship, Social Responsibility, Sustainability and Social Development. 8th World CSR Congress held between Feb 17 and Feb 18 ,2019 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.It was attended by participants from 33 countries to encourage the efforts of individuals and organizations.Theme of the year 2019 is 'Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)' to focus on corporate strategies,innovation, and strategic alliances.

20)Which state CM launched a Scheme for Adolescent girls (SAG) that focuses on girls aged between 11 to 14?

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Ans:Uttar Pradesh

Explanation:-In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched Scheme for Adolescent girls (SAG). The scheme focuses on girls aged between 11 to 14 years who have left studies and will take steps for proper nutrition and special care for them. The state government also decided to observe Adolescent girls day on 8th of every month at Anganwadi centres across the state. State Government will also launch Nutrition Campaign for the adolescent girls on 8th March.

21)Who among the following became the First Indian Woman to be honoured with the 'Future for Nature Award'?

Ans:-Divya Karnad

Explanation:-33-year-old Ashoka University teacher and Wipro Sustainable Fellow, Divya Karnad became the First Indian Woman to be honoured with the 'Future for Nature Award' for her work on marine conservation. She is the second Indian to receive this award after Dr. Charudutt Mishra. The award is given to 3 people annually, and this year it was given to Oliver Nsengimana and Fernanda Abra along with Divya Karnad. It is a prestigious international award that celebrates achievements in protecting wild animals and plant species.

Daily Current Affairs 24th February 2019

1)Name the Australian Player who sets a new Guinness World Record 'highest catch of a cricket ball' at the Melbourne Cricket Ground(MCG).

Ans:- Alyssa Healy

Explanation:- Australia's wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy set a new Guinness World Record after achieving the feat for the 'highest catch of a cricket ball' at the Melbourne Cricket Ground(MCG). She caught a ball which was dropped from a drone,80 metres above the cricket ground. The record was previously set by the England's Kristan Baumgartner with a catch from 62 metres and before her, former England captain,Nasser Hussain held it with 49 metres. The record attempt was part of the campaign carried out by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket Australia in collaboration, to set the highest attendance figure for a women's sporting fixture during the final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020, which will be held on 8th March, 2020 at MCG.

2) CM Fadnavis approves Rs ______for the memorial of Krantikari Khajyaji Naik in Maharashtra

Ans:-Rs 15 crores

Explanation:- Swargate Multimodal Hub' in Pune, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis arrived at Jalgaon, attending the Jan Jati Sammelan organised by Krantikari Khajyaji Naik Smruti Sanstha at Dharangaon. Kranti Kari Khajyaji Naik gave immense contribution during the freedom struggle. CM Fadnavis approves Rs 15 crores for the memorial of Krantikari Khajyaji Naik in Maharashtra.

3) Name of the Indian CM who approved Rs 3,000 per month to fund an unemployment allowance to the eligible youth.

Ans:- K. Chandrashekhar Rao

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Explanation:- Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao presented a Vote-on-Account Budget for the year 2019-20. The total expenditure is valued to be Rs 1,82,017 crore which is 4 percent higher than the previous year- out of which there is a revenue expenditure of Rs 1,31,629 crore and a capital expenditure of Rs.32,815 crore. A sum of Rs 1810 crore has been allocated in the Budget to fund an unemployment allowance of Rs 3,016 per month to the eligible youth. s. 6,000 crores have been allocated to waive off agricultural term loans of up to Rs. 1 lakh.

4) Who inagurated the Virtual Experiential Museum in Varanasi?

Ans:- Narendra Modi

Explanation:- Virtual Experiential Museum (VEM) is inaugurated at Man Mahal by PM Narendra Modi, a centrally-protected observatory under the Archeological Survey of India. The museum is established by the National Council of Science Museum (NCSM) and displays several cultural aspects of the city of Varanasi by using latest virtual reality technology.

5)Who has been sworn-in as the first Lokayukta of Nagaland?

Ans:-Uma Nath Singh

Explanation:- Justice Uma Nath Singh, the former Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court, has been sworn- in as the first Lokayukta of Nagaland and will hold the office for a term of 5 years or till he attains the age of 70. Governor PB Acharya administered the oath to Justice Singh him at a function held at Raj Bhavan in Kohima on 22nd Feb 2019. The Lokayukta is an anti-corruption ombudsman organization in the Indian states. Once appointed, Lokayukta cannot be dismissed nor transferred by the government, and can only be removed by passing an impeachment motion by the state assembly. Maharashtra was the first state to introduce the institution of Lokayukta through The Lokayukta and Upa-Lokayuktas Act in 1971. This was followed by similar acts that were enacted by the states of Odisha, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and the union territory of Delhi.

6)NIIT Technologies and ______collaborated to accelerate the 'cloudification' of its enterprise clients.

Ans:-Microsoft

Explanation:-NIIT Technologies has announced a global collaboration with Microsoft, to accelerate the 'cloudification' of its enterprise clients. The collaboration would focus on the comprehensive cloud needs of enterprises, from infrastructure to business applications. Both the companies have concluded a strategic Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) agreement that enables NIIT Technologies to directly manage the entire life cycle for its enterprise customers including, commercials and support and deliver integrated end-to-end solutions as a managed service on Azure platform.

7) Which among the following becomes the First State in mainland to get 2 Coast Guard Districts?

Ans:-Tamil Nadu

Explanation:- Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit inaugurated the second Coast Guard district headquarters at Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to get a second Coast Guard district headquarters. The first district headquarters is Chennai. The second headquarters have been set up to deal with frequent issues faced by fishermen and provide anti-poaching operations, search and rescue missions and coastal security measures. It will function under Commander Coast Guard Region (East). The area of operations will include about 680 km of the coastline along districts of Pudukottai, Thanjavur,

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Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari. The position of first district Commander of the district headquarters (Tuticorin) has been given to Coast Guard DIG Arvind Sharma.

8)With which Company did AstraZeneca, a Global biopharmaceutical major, to support Indian startups in healthcare?

Ans:-Nasscom

Explanation:-AstraZeneca, a Global biopharmaceutical major, has joined hands with Nasscom, the IT industry body, to set up an accelerator programme to support Indian start-ups in healthcare. AstraZeneca and Nasscom will incubate start-ups in bringing solutions that can help in the management of non-communicable diseases. AstraZeneca PLC Chairman of the Board Leif Johansson said the firm was committed to strengthening innovation in healthcare.

9)Who has become the brand ambassador of the Swasth Immunised India campaign?

Ans:-Kareena Kapoor.

Explanation:-Acclaimed actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has become the brand ambassador of the Swasth Immunised India campaign to spread awareness among parents about child vaccination to help prevent the future generation from life-threatening diseases. The nation-wide vaccination and immunisation campaign has been launched by Serum Institute of India (SII) in association with Network18. The primary aim of the campaign is to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of vaccine administration, advocating its acceptance and building a strong immunization outreach in the country. Working alongside the government, the campaign will strive to reach full immunization coverage through continuous education and awareness.

10)This institute has tied up with Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) to address public health issues.

Ans:-IIT-Madras

Explanation:-IIT-Madras has entered into an agreement with Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) to address public health issues and predict adverse pregnancy outcomes using technology. The aim of the pact is to bring physician-scientists, biologists, engineers and data scientists together to solve public health problems related to maternal and child health. The objective is to apply advanced analytical approach for prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes, evaluate maternal and childhood consequences of exposure to environmental pollutants, among others. The THSTI is an autonomous institute of Department of Biotechnology (DBT). DBT is a department under Ministry of Science and Technnology.

11) Which country starts to Trading New Currency RTGS dollar?

Ans:-Zimbabwe

Explanation:-Zimbabwe's central bank announced the discontinuation of its official currency, quasi- currency bond note officially pegged at parity with the U.S. dollar and launched a new currency called RTGS dollars, to resolve a long-term monetary crisis. U.S. dollars to banks at a rate of 2.5 RTGS to the greenback. This step was undertaken to do away with hyperinflation and fiscal deficit issues the country had been facing and the shortage of dollars which had been negatively impacting the economy.

12)Which state government launches digital platform for Agro land conversion?

Ans:-Karnataka

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Explanation:-Karnataka government introduced a dedicated digital platform for the speedy processing of land records. Karnataka Revenue Minister R V Deshpande on Wednesday officially launched a single window service 'landrecords.karnataka.gov.in' for the hassle-free processing of agricultural land. The newly launched eco-system will complete the required process within 60 days. Deshpande hoped that technological intervention would reduce the involvement of multiple government agencies as well as human intervention. This process will allow people who want to convert their agricultural land for commercial purpose.

13)Anti-drug cell to soon be opened in every school and college of this state.

Ans:-Uttarkhand

Explanation:- Anti-drug cell to soon be opened in every school and college of Uttarakhand. Director General of Police Anil Kumar Rathodi that against the intoxicants in the state, the police will set up an anti- drug cell in every school, college and youth institutions. It will be coordinated from the police station to the SSP. The responsibility of monitoring the cell in the state will be the responsibility of the Anti-Drug Task Force.

14)Regional Maritime Safety Conference 2019 was held in ______.

Ans:-Mumbai

Explanation:-The 2-day long Regional Maritime Safety Conference 2019 was held in Mumbai to discuss maritime safety in the India-ASEAN sub-region, safeguarding our shores and promoting maritime trade. It was organized by India for the first time, by the National Maritime Foundation (NMF), in coordination with Ministry of Shipping and Ministry of External Affairs. It addressed a range of issues that affect regional maritime safety, including transport safety, maritime law, ship building, transportation of hazardous goods, marine oil spill, pollution and environmental safety. UnionShipping and Water Resources Minister,Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an upgraded version of e-commerce portal Port Community System (PCS) called 'PCS1x', developed in record time by the Indian Ports Association, based on feedback from stakeholders using PCS.

15)Which of the following act was approved by the President Ram Nath Kovind, recently?

Ans:-Indian Stamp Act, 1899

Explanation:-President Ram Nath Kovind gave his assent to the amendments to the Indian Stamp Act, 1899,which were introduced in the Parliament as part of the Finance Act 2019. These amendments have been introduced to regularise the system of levying stamp duty and to help in curbing tax evasion. For the stamp duty rates, the duties levied by Maharashtra will be taken as a benchmark as the state accounts for 70% of the total collection. They propose creation of a legal and institutional mechanism which will enable states to collect stamp duty on securities market instruments at one place by one agency(through the Stock Exchanges or Clearing Corporations authorised by the stock exchange or by the Depositories). They also propose a mechanism for appropriate sharing of the stamp duty with relevant state governments on the basis of state of domicile of the buying client.

Daily Current Affairs 25th February 2019

1)Recently, This ministry increased the Risk and Hardship Allowance for CAPF personnel from Rs. 9,700 to Rs. 17,300 per month.

Ans:-Ministry of Home Affairs

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Explanation:-The Ministry of Home Affairs increased the Risk and Hardship Allowance for CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) personnel from Rs. 9,700 to Rs. 17,300 per month for those up to the Inspector rank. For those above Inspector rank, allowance was increased from Rs.16,900 to Rs. 25,000. This decision came a week after 40 CRPF jawans were killed in a terror attack in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision has been pending since August 2017.

2)UN, SIDBI and this bank jointly launched the Women's Livelihood Bond, recently.

Ans:-World Bank

Explanaion:-World Bank, United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) launched new social impact bonds exclusively for women, called Women's Livelihood Bonds (WLBs), with an initial corpus of Rs 300 crore. It will enable individual women entrepreneurs in sectors like food processing, agriculture, services, and small units to borrow around Rs 50,000 to Rs 3 lakh at an annual interest rate of around 13% to 14% or less and have a tenure of 5 years. They will be unsecured, unlisted bonds and offer a fixed coupon rate of 3% per annum to bond investors.

3)Which Indian Player will be honoured with the 2018 Player of the Year award by the Asian Hockey Federation?

Ans:-Manpreet Singh

Explanation:-The Asian Hockey Federation has honored Indian skipper Manpreet Singh with the 2018 Player of the Year award. Women team's striker Lalremsiami has bagged the Rising Player of The Year prize. Manpreet led the Indian team to an unbeaten streak at the Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat where the team was declared joint winners with Pakistan. He also contributed to the team's silver medal win at the FIH Champions Trophy in Breda.

4)Cobra Gold Military Exercises was hosted by Thailand and which of the following country?

Ans:-United States

Explanation:-Thailand and the United States hosted the annual Cobra Gold military exercise, the biggest activity of its type in the Asia-Pacific region with 29 nations taking part as participants or observers. Apart from the 2 countries, 7 countries who participated in the exercise were India, Singapore, Japan, China, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Korea. The Indian Army participated in the military training exercise with a 14-member contingent. India participated in this exercise for the first time in the 'Observer Plus' category in 2016 alongside China.

5)How many groups are Constituted by CBIC to study and recommend measures to facilitate trade, promote exports and improve compliance?

Ans:- 3

Explanation:-The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) constituted 3 Working Groups to study and recommend measures to facilitate trade, promote exports and improve compliance. The groups will consult the stakeholders extensively, including the Export Promotion Councils and relevant wings of the Ministry of Commerce and industry and submit their report within a period of 2 months. It will focus on; improving the legislative structure of customs tariff and update it to suit the emerging and future needs of the economy and industry with special focus to create a comprehensive export tariff structure to enhance India's export competitiveness. export promotion and facilitation with emphasis on boosting exports through

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e-commerce, addressing the trade facilitation barriers faced in India's export markets and improving the quality of logistics services for exporters. Enhancing compliance, plugging loopholes to improve revenue collection on customs and curb IGST refund frauds.

6)Which state government launched boat ambulance service for remote areas, recently?

Ans:-Odisha

Explanation:-Odisha govt launched boat ambulance service for remote areas. The project, which costs around Rs. 5.40 crore, reportedly includes six boat ambulances and 60 jetties with walkway. This new facility is hope for residents who live in far-flung areas, river-locked pockets of the state, making it easier for them to reach the hospitals.

7)Who has been appointed as Saudi Arabia's first female ambassador to United States?

Ans:-Reema bint Bandar

Explanation:-Saudi Arabia has appointed Princess Reema bint Bandar, a former business executive and philanthropist, as its first female ambassador to the United States. She replaced Prince Khalid bin Salman, amid fallout over journalist Khashoggi's murder. She has been a leading advocate of female empowerment in the kingdom.

8)Which company gets $350 million from the U.S. government to support the construction of new wind and solar power plants in India?

Ans:-ReNew Power

Explanation:-ReNew Power, a Clean energy producer, had secured a fresh debt financing of up to $350 million from the U.S. government's development finance institution Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). This follows an earlier round of financing when OPIC granted a loan of $250 million to ReNew Power in March 2016. The funds will be utilized by ReNew Power to support the construction of new wind and solar power plants in India.

9)President Ram Nath Kovind inagurated the International Conference and Exhibition on Energy and Environment in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Exolanation:-International Conference and Exhibition on Energy and Environment was inaugurated in New Delhi by the President Ram Nath Kovind. The conference has been organized by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and would go on for 3 days. The conference aims to identify the research and development needs of new innovations, technologies and applications for clean, safe, sustainable development of society, environment, energy and industries in years following 2020.

10)Who won the FICCI CSR Award for Women Empowerment?

Ans:-JSPL

Explanation:-Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) was conferred with the prestigious 'FICCI CSR Award' for Women Empowerment for its innovative and high impact women empowerment programmes, implemented by the company's CSR Arm - JSPL Foundation, across its operational areas in India. Director, JSPL and the Co-Chairperson of JSPL Foundation Shallu Jindal received the award from Union Commerce and Industry

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and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu in New Delhi. About FICCI CSR Awards Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards are India's first CSR award, instituted in 1999 by FICCI. The main aim of the award is to identify and recognize the efforts of companies in integrating and internalizing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

11)Which Indian Shooter claimed gold medal with a World Record in ISSF World Cup?

Ans:-Saurabh Chaudhary

Explanation:-The 16-year-old Indian Shooter Saurabh Chaudhary claimed gold medal in the men's 10m air pistol event with a world record score of 245.0 in the final at the season-opening International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) event. In addition, he sealed a berth for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

12) GST on under construction flats cut from 12 percent to ______%.

Ans:-5%

Explanation:-Under construction properties priced over ₹45 lakh will attract 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax), instead of 12%. A residential property priced at Rs.45 lakh or below will now be defined as "affordable" and taxed at 1%, from 8% earlier. The new rates will be effective from April 1, 2019.

13) Which country attends OIC Meet for 1st Time in Abu Dhabi?

Ans:-India

Explanation:-External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has been invited to deliver an address at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Abu Dhabi. This is the first time that a leader of the non- Muslim country has been invited to the OIC conference. Ms Swaraj will be the Guest of Honour and address the inaugural plenary of the 46th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of OIC on the 1st and 2nd of March.

14)Which film won the Best Foreign Film in Oscar 2019?

Ans:-Roma

Explanation:-Mexico's "Roma" is the winner of the best foreign language film at the Oscars.

15)Where did the 44th Global Summit of International Advertising Association held?

Ans:-Kochi

Explanation:-The 44th IAA World Congress was organised in Kochi. The conference lasted for 3 days. It involved sessions from a wide variety of speakers-ranging from a spiritual guru, industrial leaders to technology experts and so on. The highlight of the event was a robot trying to answer theme-based question- "Brand Dharma, What's coming next?" Brand Dharma incorporates concepts like environmental impacts of products, their source of raw materials, how many people are involved in the process etc.

16)Which Indian Short film won 2019 Oscar Award in the category 'Best Short Documentary'?

Ans:-Period. End of Sentence.

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Explanation:-India-based 'Period. End of Sentence.' has won the Oscar 2019 for Best Documentary Short Subject at the 91st Academy Awards.

17)Which country has conducted a naval military exercise 'Velayat 97' from Persian Gulf to Indian Ocean?

Ans:-Iran

Explanation:-An Iranian naval force has started a massive three-day drill, codenamed "Velayat 97", across two million square kilometers of sea between the Straits of Hormuz and the Indian Ocean, including a sensitive global shipping route. The drill will showcase Iran's submarines, warships, helicopters and drones. It is being held from the Strait of Hormuz to the southeastern coasts of Makran, the Sea of Oman and the northern parts of the Indian Ocean, down to the 10-degrees latitude. The naval exercise comes at a time of tensions with the US, after Washington condemned Iran at the summit in Warsaw. In addition Iran has upped tensions with Saudi Arabia after a terror attack in southeastern Iran, which Tehran blamed partly on Riyadh. Iran has also recently condemned the United Arab Emirates, Israel and the US. Sending its navy to the Strait of Hormuz, a major chokepoint for the world's oil, is provocative.

18) Central Excise day was observed on;

Ans:-24th Feb

Explanation:- Central Excise Day was observed on 24th February in India. Various programs and seminars were organized New Delhi and other states. Numerous programs were conducted to spread awareness among the buyers and the sellers regarding the new excise rules and regulations for easy implementation and maximum benefit. Government will distribute awards to the employees of the central excise department who have displayed outstanding values in work culture and ethics.

19) Who inaugurated VIVID 2019 that was organised by National Informatics Centre (NIC)?

Ans:-Ravi Shankar Prasad

Explanation:- Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad inaugurated VIVID 2019. "VIVID-Vision Insight and Voices as India goes Digital"- the District Informatics Officer (DIO) meet, was organised by National Informatics Centre (NIC) from 21st to 22nd February, 2019, as an initiative to interact with the DIO's and to share their experiences as well as contribution, as digital change-makers at the grass-root level in the States. He also released the Digital India Compendium and launched Digidhan Mitra Chatbot and Technology incubation and development of entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) scheme.

20)Name the Aerospace company which launched Israels first moon lander Beresheet from Florida?

Ans:-SpaceX

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blue-and-white Israeli flag. Landing is the main mission, but the spacecraft also carries a scientific instrument to measure the lunar magnetic field, which will help to understand of the Moon's formation.

Daily Current Affairs 26th February 2019

1)FAGMIL and this state government signed an agreement to establish India's 4th White Cement Plant Project.

Ans:-Himachal Pradesh

Explanation:-Under its diversification programme, FCI Aravali Gypsum and Minerals India Limited (FAGMIL) has taken up a project to establish a white cement plant near village Nohra Dhar in Himachal Pradesh, at a project cost of approximately Rs. 605 crores. It will be the 4th white cement plant in the country. The installed capacity of the plant would be 0.3 million tonnes per annum and it will generate the direct employment of approximately150 persons. The plant is expected to be commenced by the year 2022.

2)The Indian Grandmaste who lifted the Cannes International Open trophy is;

Ans:-Abhijeet Gupta

Explanation:-Indian Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta lifted the Cannes International Open trophy. He took an easy draw with Pier Luigi Basso of Italy in the ninth and final round. Abhijeet won the tournament with 7.5 points. It is his first solo International tournament victory.

3)Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram celebrated Statehood Day on ______.

Ans:-February 20

Explanation:-The northeastern states Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh observed their Statehood Day with numerous cultural events and sports meets on February 20,2019.It is 32nd and 47th Statehood Day of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh respectively.

4)Swaraj Dweep island is one among 7 selected for Seaplane Operation during 5th Island Development Agency (IDA) meetingheld in NewDelhi. It was located in;

Ans:-Andaman & Nicobar

Explanation:-7 Islands have been identified for Seaplane Operation: 4 islands in Andaman & Nicobar - Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, Hutbay and Long. And 3 islands in Lakshadweep - Kavaratti, Agatti and Minicoy. CRZ clearance has been accorded for 'Middle Strait Bridge' on Andaman Trunk Road.10 Deep-Sea Modern Fishing Vessels are being procured by Lakshadweep Administration from Cochin Shipyard Limited for sustainably utilizing the potential of Tuna Fish. Export of sea food and coconut products is also encouraged to generate more employment opportunities in the islands.

5)Who wins environmental excellence award, recently?

Ans:-ONGC

Explanation:- Oil and Natural Gas Corporation(ONGC)'s Rajahmundry unit won the Energy and Environment Foundation Global Clean Awards-2019 for sustained efforts in pursuit of Swachh Bharat Mission as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a function in New Delhi.

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6)Where did Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 40-Acre National War Memorial?

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated a new National War Memorial, situated in the India Gate complex in New Delhi, to the nation. He lit the flame positioned at the bottom of the stone obelisk to pay homage to the soldiers who died in the line of duty. The National War Memorial, spread over 40 acres in the India Gate complex behind the canopy, is dedicated to soldiers killed during the Indo-China War in 1962, Indo-Pak Wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971, Indian Peace Keeping Force Operations in Sri Lanka and in the Kargil Conflict in 1999, and also those in the UN peacekeeping missions.

7)The first Asian team which is to win a Test series in South Africa.

Ans:-Sri Lanka

Explanation:-Sri Lanka cricket team became the first Asian side to win a Test series in South Africa after winning the series by 2-0. This was Sri Lanka's sixth series in South Africa and their first win. Kusal Perera was given the Man of the Series award. Before Sri Lanka, only Australia and England have defeated South Africa in a Test series at home.

8)Who was appointed as the Additional charge as Secretary of newly created Department of Fisheries?

Ans:-Tarun Shridhar

Explanation:-The PM administration gave Secretary of Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Tarun Shridhar the additional charge of Secretary of Department of Fisheries.Department of Fisheries is a newly created department under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.Tarun Shridhar is an IAS officer from 1984 batch Himachal Pradesh cadre.Also, J Balaji, an IAS officer from 2001 batch of Assam- Meghalaya cadre was appointed as the Joint Secretary of Department of Fisheries.Earlier, he was serving as Joint Secretary of Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries. These appointments follow the Cabinet approval of creation of one post of Secretary and one post of Joint Secretary in the new department.

9)Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched Rail Drishti Dashboard in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched Rail Drishti Dashboard in New Delhi. The dashboard has been launched to keep people informed about the work going on in the Railways across the country.

10)This state government launched Mukhyamantri Yuva Swabhiman Yojana that guarantees 100 days of employment every year to urban youth.

Ans:-Madhya Pradesh

Explanation:-Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath launched the State Government's flagship scheme 'Mukhyamantri Yuva Swabhiman Yojana' that guarantees 100 days of employment every year to urban youth from economically weaker sections. Under the scheme, Rs 4,000 stipend per month during 100 days of period, would be given to the youth and they will also be given skill development training in order to become independent. Each youth enrolled under the scheme will get total Rs 13,500 for the 100 days period. 1.5 lakh urban youths have so far registered themselves for this scheme. Only those youths, whose family's

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annual income is less than Rs 2 lakh and who are in the age group of 21-30 years, are eligible for the scheme.

11)Afghanistan formally launched shipping goods to India, through which of the Iran's port?

Ans:-Chabahar Port

Explanation:- Afghanistan formally launched shipping goods to India through the Chabahar port in Iran. The first shipment of 570 tonnes comprising of dried fruits, textiles, carpets, and other goods in 23 trucks was inaugurated by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. With the opening of the Chabahar route, Afghanistan's exports will double to $2 billion from the current $1 billion over the next one year. About Chabahar Port: Chabahar Port development is the India-Iran joint venture project. Inaugurated in 2017 and been built largely by India. This port provides a critical transport link from New Delhi to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan, to trade with Central Asia.

12)What was the theme of the World Thinking Day celebrated on 22nd February,2019?

Ans:-Leadership

Explanation:-Every year, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides celebrate the World Thinking Day on 22nd February. The theme of World Thinking Day 2019 is 'Leadership'. The aim is to learn the different ways to be a leader and develop the power to bring the change a person wants to see in the world. The day is significant as it was the birthday of Scouting and Guiding founder Lord Robert Baden-Powelland of Lady Olave Baden- Powell, his wife and World Chief Guide.

13)Which movie has been crowned Best Picture at the 91st Academy Awards?

Ans:-Green Book

Explanation:-An American biographical comedy-drama film "Green Book" has won the Best Picture at 91st Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on 25th February 2019. Green Book also won best supporting actor for Mahershala Ali and best original screenplay. In it, British actress Olivia Colman won the best actress award for "The Favourite" for her performance as Queen Anne in the period comedy- drama. Rami Malek won the best actor for a biographical film "Bohemian Rhapsody". Filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron won Best Director Oscar for 'Roma', which is an American and Mexican drama. 'Roma' also won Oscars in the Best Foreign Language Film and Best Cinematography category. Pop diva Lady Gaga got the Best Original Song Academy Award for "Shallow" from her feature debut "A Star is Born". Marvel's Black Panther too won 3 Oscars - Best Original Music, Best Costume Design and Best Production Design.

14) Indian Government signed MoU with which of the following country's University for research on environment issues?

Ans:-Canada

Explanation:-The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada for next 10 years to explore opportunities for collaborations in the field of Forestry Science and to work on various environmental issues like Climate Change, Forest Resource Management and Wildlife. The opportunities will be explored by organizations like Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education(ICFRE), Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Forest Survey of India (FSI), Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and Directorate of Forest Education, Uttarakhand, and UBC, Canada.

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15)Which Indian state ranked first in highest alcohol consumption among kids?

Ans:-Punjab

Explanation:-According to a survey conducted by AIIMS New Delhi, Punjab ranks first in the list of highest alcohol consumption among children in India. As many as 1.2 lakh children in the age group of 10- 17 years from the state consume alcohol. West Bengal ranked second in the list and Maharashtra third.

16)Who has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement award at the FMSCI annual awards function?

Ans:-G.R. Karthikeyan

Explanation:-G.R. Karthikeyan, father of India's first Formula One driver Narain Karthikeyan, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement award at the FMSCI annual awards function. FIA president Jean Todt was the chief guest and handed over the awards.

17)PepsiCo's CEO Indra Nooyi has joined as a board of directors for this company, recently.

Ans:-Amazon

Explanation:-PepsiCo's India-born former CEO Indra Nooyi has joined Amazon's board of directors, the online retail giant. Starbucks executive Rosalind Brewer has also joined the Amazon Board. Ms. Nooyi will be a member of the audit committee. She was Pepsico CEO from October 2006 to October 2018, where she also served as the Chairman of its board of directors from May 2007 to February 2019.

18)The 4th Global Digital Health Partnership Summit was hosted by which of the following country?

Ans:-India

Explanation:-J P Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare inaugurated the '4th Global Digital Health Partnership Summit' in New Delhi, in the presence of Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad Union Minister of Law & Justice and Electronics & Information Technology and Health Ministers from several countries. The global intergovernmental meeting on digital health is being hosted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Digital Health Partnership (GDHP).

19)Who among the following is the Goodwill Ambassador of WHO for Hepatitis in South-East Asia Region?

Ans:-Amitabh Bachchan

Explanation:-Union Minister Ashwini Kumar Choubey rolled out "National Action Plan - Viral Hepatitis" to eliminate viral hepatitis at Mumbai in presence of Amitabh Bachchan, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Hepatitis in South-East Asia Region. The aim of the programme is to combat hepatitis and achieve countrywide elimination of Hepatitis C by 2030. The programme is also in line with the country's global commitment towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.3. India has affirmed this commitment at the 69th World Health Assembly. Viral hepatitis is a global public health problem that kills nearly 2.72 lakh people annually. It is an inflammatory condition of the liver caused by five known hepatitis viruses - A, B, C , D and E. Of these, B and C are known to cause 96% mortality. India is one of the few countries to roll out management of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in a public health approach and offer free diagnostics and drugs lifelong to its beneficiaries.

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20) Defence Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the 12th biennial edition of International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition in Bengaluru. The theme of this event is;

Ans:- Runway to a Billion Opportunities

Explanation:-Defence Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the 12th biennial edition of International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition, the Aero India 2019 on 24th February 2019 at the Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru. The theme of the event was "Runway to a Billion Opportunities". India and Singapore sign agreement for skilling Indians in aviation. Aero India 2019 observed "Technology Day" on the third day. Maiden Drone Olympics Competition held at Aero India 2019.

Daily Current Affairs 27th February 2019

1)The first-ever Skill Saathi Youth Conclave has launched in which of the following city?

Ans:-Bhubaneswar

Explanation:-The first-ever Skill Saathi Youth Conclave has inaugurated by Union Skill Development Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at Rail Auditorium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The program aims to create a mass movement around skill development in the state and inspire youth to make the most of various skill development opportunities in the country. The conclave was aired live across 427 locations in Odisha, where more than 2 lakh candidates were mobilized for career counseling under Skill Saathi initiative. The initiative provides information on vocational training programs under Skill India mission, conduct psychometric test and provide face-to-face counselling interventions to guide aspirants to make the right choice of based on their interest and aptitude.

2)Who has been conferred with the Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2018?

Ans:-Yohei Sasakawa

Explanation:-President Ram Nath Kovind conferred the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2015, 16, 17 and 18 at a function in Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The award comprises a cash award of one crore rupees, a citation in a scroll, a plaque and a traditional handicraft item. Japan's Yohei Sasakawa was conferred with the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2018 for his contribution in Leprosy Eradication in India and across the world. For 2015: Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari was given the award for its contribution in Rural Development, Education and Development of natural resources. For 2016: Jointly to Akshaya Patra Foundation for its contribution in providing mid-day meals to millions of children across India and Sulabh International for its contribution in improving the condition of sanitation in India and emancipation of manual scavengers. And For 2017: Ekal Abhiyan Trust for its contribution in providing Education for Rural and Tribal Children in remote areas pan India, Rural Empowerment, Gender, and Social Equality.

3) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Network-18 Rising India Summit in ______.

Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Network-18 Rising India Summit, held in New Delhi and laid out his vision for a 'New India'. The theme of the summit was, 'Beyond Politics: Defining National Priorities'. The Prime Minister discussed various topics including income tax and GDP numbers, India's global standing, Jan Dhan accounts, and unemployment. Rising India Summit is presented by Ebix and is one of the most anticipated thought leadership forums in India.

4)Recently, Which country test fired surface-to-air missile "QRSAM" successfully?

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Ans:-India

Explanation:-India successfully test fired the short range Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army, from a test range along the coast of Odisha. It is a sleek and highly mobile air defence system with a strike range of 25 km to 30 km and has a capability of engaging multiple targets. It is different from normal air defence system, as this is an all-weather, all-terrain missile with electronic counter measures against jamming by aircraft radars. It was first tested in June 2017 and followed by the second successful test in July 2017. It will replace the 'Akash' missile defence system which is on its way out due to technological obsolescence.

5)India's first state to have raised a special dog squad to detect liquor consignment.

Ans:-Bihar

Explanation:-Bihar has become the first state in India which has raised its own dog squad to detect liquor consignment. All these dogs were imparted nine-month training at Hyderabad-based Integrated Intelligence Training Academy before being inducted in the Bihar Police. The total strength of the Bihar Police's dog squad stands at 68. On each dog, the state police spent around Rs 1.71 lakh and two handlers have been deputed. Notably, Bihar had banned liquor in the state in 2016.

6)With which organisation, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) signed an MoU for jointly developing infrastructure for fuels, lubricating oil, LPG, Natural Gas and any other related fuel and gas?

Ans:-IWAI

Explanation:-Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) signed an MoU for jointly developing infrastructure for fuels, lubricating oil, LPG, Natural Gas and any other related fuel and gas for meeting the requirement of National Waterways. The MoU will provide for an understanding over general modalities of mutual cooperation leading to addressing futuristic demand of any form of energy for Inland Waterways and associated services.

7)The World's First Ultra-Converged Broadband Product was launched by;

Asn:-Tejas Networks

Explanation:-Tejas Networks today launched its broadband access product which provides both wireline as well as wireless broadband services from a single integrated platform. It was launched by Mr. Anshu Prakash, Additional Secretary, Department of Telecom, Government of India at the Mobile World Congress (MWC), Barcelona. The TJ1400 integrates multiple broadband access technologies: gigabit fiber broadband (GPON/NG-PON), fixed wireless broadband (4G/LTE eNodeB upgradable to 5G) and GE/10GE/100GE Business Ethernet services (CE2.0 certified) in highly compact, modular and energy-efficient platforms.

8)Name of an Indian Playwright who has been chosen for this 2019's META Lifetime Achievement Award?

Ans:-Mahesh Elkunchwar

Explanation:-Mahesh Elkunchwar, an eminent Indian Playwright, has been chosen for this 2019's META Lifetime Achievement Award, which will be conferred upon him at the 14th Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META) festival to be held on 12th March 2019. He is critically-acclaimed and famous for having experimented with a wide range of drama and is considered a powerful force in both Indian and

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Marathi theatre scene. His 1985 play 'Wada Chirebandi' (Old Stone Mansion) has been staged in Marathi,Hindi and Bengali and also adapted for television. He has written more than 30 plays and essays, like 'Sultan', 'Holi', 'Garbo', 'Yatanaghar', and 'Atmakatha' and is also a receiver of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship. Previous recipients of the META Lifetime Achievement Award include Vijaya Mehta, Zohra Sehgal, Badal Sarkar,Khaled Chowdhary, Ebrahim Alkazi, Girish Karnard, Heisnam Kanhailal, Ratan Thiyam and Arun Kakade.

9)Which app wins the National e-Governance Award 2019?

Ans:-IRCTC Rail Connect

Explanation:-Railway's ticket booking mobile application - IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app and the Chhattisgarh government's 'Khanij online' and 14 other such IT projects have been chosen for National e- Governance Awards 2019. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) Rail Connect mobile app, launched in January 2017, has been chosen for the special jury award for excellence in government process re-engineering for digital transformation. Railways collected revenue of over Rs 5,800 crore in 2018-19 (till December) through the App. National e-Governance Awards will be presented by Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh.

10)Germany's KfW Development Bank and ______has tied up for funding USD 130m to Refinance Solar Units.

Ans:-Bank of Baroda

Explanation:-State-run Bank of Baroda has tied up with Germany's KfW Development Bank for funding of USD 113 million to refinance solar projects. The tie-up is part of an Indo-German Solar Energy Partnership signed in 2015.

11)PM Modi unveils world's largest Bhagavad Gita at ISKCON temple in south Delhi. It was weighted upto;

Ans:-800 Kg

Explanation:-The world's largest Bhagavad Gita at ISKCON temple in south Delhi's East of Kailash, has 670 pages, weighs 800 kg and is 2.8 metre tall and 2 metre wide (when closed). The book is dubbed as the 'Astounding Bhagavad Gita'. Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a sacred text, revered by the Hindus, and is part of the epic Mahabharata, containing the teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield. ISKCON - International Society for Krishna Consciousness

12)The CM of this state launched the Virtual learning portal for rural students preparing for competitive exams.

Ans:-Tamil Nadu

Explanation:-Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami launched a virtual learning portal (www.tamilnaducareerservices.gov.in) to offer guidance to rural students preparing for competitive exams. He also inaugurated a State Career Guidance Centre at Guindy, which has been established at a cost of Rs 1.31 crore, with an aim to offer proper guidance to job seekers.

13)The 3rd edition of the 3-day festival "Words in the Garden" based on the life and ideology of Mahatma Gandhi was held in ______.

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Ans:-New Delhi

Explanation:-The 3rd edition of the 3-day festival "Words in the Garden" based on the life and ideology of Mahatma Gandhi was held at India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi. This year's title of the event was "Bapu Ki Dilli" as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary and celebrated the life and ideology of Bapu the father of our nation through plays, recitals, readings, discussions and more. It began with the screening of 1996 film "The Making of the Mahatma" directed by Shyam Benegal which explores Gandhi's participation in South Africa's freedom struggle. The festival explored themes with contemporary relevance inspired by Bapu's ideologies - 'Significance of non-violence today' and 'Sustainable Living'.

14) Which state government approves State Film Policy 2019?

Ans:-Odisha

Explanation:-With an aim to promote Odia films and create a conducive eco-system for production of films in the region, Naveen Patnaik-led state cabinet gave its nod to the Odisha State Film Policy-2019. The policy will promote quality Odia films, facilitate film tourism in the state, establish Odisha as a destination for film shooting and improve screen density in the state.

15)What is the position of Indian Passport in the Passport Index of 2019?

Ans:- 67

Explanation:-The Passport Index of 2019, which ranks almost 199 countries in the world based on their Visa-Free Scores and their ranking according to the UNDP human development index, showed that Indian passport has steadily strengthened in a period of 5 years from rank 77 in 2015 to 67 in 2019. 25 countries allow visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, whereas 39 countries offer visa-on-arrival. The Tourism Ministry for India is also offering e-tourist visa facilities to 166 countries, by making several amendments in the e-visa regime of the country in order to make this process more tourist friendly.

16) India-Bangladesh Joint Military Exercise 'Sampriti 2019' begins in ______.

Ans:-Tangail

Explanation:-As part of the ongoing India Bangladesh defence cooperation, a joint military exercise Sampriti-2019 will be conducted at Tangail, Bangladesh from 02 March to 15 March 2019. Exercise Sampriti-2019 is an important bilateral defence cooperation endeavour between India and Bangladesh and this will be the eighth edition of the exercise which is hosted alternately by both countries.

17)Which company revealed the World's fastest 1TB microSD card at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2019?

Ans:-SanDisk

Explanation:-Two 1 terabyte microSD cards were revealed by companies Western Digital-owned SanDisk and Micron during Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. The 1TB SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD card, which the company claims to be the world's fastest, reaches speeds of up to 160 Mbps. While Micron's card, claimed to be the world's first, reaches speeds of up to 100 Mbps.

18)Who launched the book titled 'Quality, Accreditation, and Ranking - A Silent Revolution in the Offing in Indian Higher Education' in New Delhi?

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Ans:-M Venkaiah Naidu

Explanation:-Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu launched the book titled 'Quality, Accreditation, and Ranking - A Silent Revolution in the Offing in Indian Higher Education' edited by Education Promotion Society for India's (EPSI) Alternate President Dr. H Chaturvedi in New Delhi. On this occasion, the UGC Chairman, Dr. DP Singh, and Management Guru Padma Shri Dr. Pritam Singh were present as the guest of honor. The book launch function was organized by EPSI, BIMTECH and Bloomsbury Pvt Ltd.

19)Muhammadu Buhari was re-elected as the president of which of the following country?

Ans:-Nigeria

Explanation:-Muhammadu Buhari was re-elected Nigeria's President, results showed, after a delayed poll that angered voters and led to claims of rigging and collusion. Buhari, 76, took an unassailable lead of more than four million votes as the last states were yet to be declared, making it impossible for his nearest rival, Atiku Abubakar, to win.

20)How many banks are removed from the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework by the Reserve Bank of India?

Ans:- 3

Explanation:-The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken off Allahabad Bank, Corporation Bank and Dhanlaxmi Bank from the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework allowing them to resume their normal lending activities. The Board for Financial Supervision (BFS) met to review the performance of banks under PCA and noted that the government has infused fresh capital into various banks including some of the banks currently under the PCA framework.

Daily Current Affairs 28th February 2019

1)Name the Best Mobile App,that won the Gold in the Digital India Awards?

Ans:-ePathshala

Explanation:-NCERT's ePathshala app won the Digital India Award 2019 under the Best Mobile App category. CERT's ePathshala app won the Digital India Award 2019 under the Best Mobile App category. The ePathshala app helps students download all educational e-resources including NCERT textbooks, audio, video, periodicals, and a variety of other digital resources.

2)Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman increased the quota for Indian Haj pilgrims from 1.75 lakh to ______lakh after PM Narendra Modi's request?

Ans:-2 Lakh

Explanation:-Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman also announced the increase in quota for Indian Haj pilgrims from 1.75 lakh to 2 lakh at the request of PM Modi. 2,340 Muslim women will go to Hajj this year, without mehram (companion) and without the lottery system. This will be the third such increase in the last 5 years.

3)Which State government conferred with Platinum award in Web Ratna under the category State/UT by Digital India Awards?

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Ans:-Tripura

Explanation:-The Digital India Awards have been instituted under the ambit of the National Portal of India (http://india.gov.in) by National Informatics Centre, MeitY, to promote exemplary initiatives in e- governance using the medium of World Wide Web. Tripura conferred with Platinum award in Web Ratna, whereas Himachal Pradesh won Gold and Kerala won silver under the category State/UT by Digital India Awards.

4)What was the theme of the 14th Agricultural Science Congress held at New Delhi?

Ans:-Innovations for Agricultural Transformation

Explanation:-The 14th Agricultural Science Congress was organized by National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) and Indian Agricultural Research Institute at National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC) in New Delhi from 20th to 23rd February 2019. The theme of the event was "Innovations for Agricultural Transformation" and it is central to the national complementary pledges of building a New India and Doubling Farmers' Income by 2022.

5)Who has been appointed as the Chairman of National Book Trust?

Ans:-Govind Prasad Sharma

Explanation:-Educationist and Author Govind Prasad Sharma has been appointed as the Chairman of National Book Trust (NBT). Govind Prasad Sharma has served as the Principal of Government P.G. College in Madhya Pradesh and in other Educational sectors previously. National Book Trust National Book Trust (NBT) is an apex body established by the Government of India in the Year 1957 under the Department Of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development. Its objective is to produce and encourage the production of good literature in English, Hindi And Other Indian Languages.

6)Who conferred the National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 awards in New Delhi?

Ans:-Narendra Modi

Explanation:-The National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 awards were given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. It was organised by the National Service Scheme (NSS) in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. The "Khelo India" app, which has been developed by Sports Authority of India was also launched at the event. The winners are 1st position- Shweta Umre from Maharashtra. 2nd position- Anjanakshi M.S from Karnataka. And 3rd position- Mamta Kumari from Bihar.

7)When did National Science Day celebrated?

Ans:-28 February

Explanation:-National Science Day is celebrated across India on February 28. Famous Indian scientist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman or CV Raman discovered the Raman Effect on this day in 1928. For his discovery, Sir CV Raman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. In honour of this discovery and as a mark of tribute to the scientist, National Science Day was marked for the first time on February 28, 1987. This year the theme for the National Science Day is 'Science for people and people for science'.

8)Union Textile Minister inaugurated Titanwala Museum recently. It was located in;

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Ans:-Rajasthan

Explanation:-Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani inaugurated the 'Titanwala Museum' that showcases the hand block printing of the Chhipa community in Bagru. Bagru printing is one of the traditional techniques of printing with natural color followed by the chippas of Rajasthan. Suraj Narayan Titanwala took the initiative of setting up the museum.

9)'Aviation Conclave 2019' Organised By Civil Aviation Ministry. It's theme is;

Ans:-Flying for all

Explanation:-The Ministry of Civil Aviation organised a conclave on the theme 'flying for all' where more than 200 delegates including industry leaders and regulators deliberated on issues and opportunities in the sector. Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu stated that the Conclave was about the future of Indian aviation, bringing together industry leaders, government and regulators for setting the tone and propelling us to realize our Vision-2040.

10)Asia's largest biotechnology and life-sciences forum "BioAsia 2019" was held in ______.

Ans:- Hyderabad

Explanation:-The 16th edition of BioAsia 2019 Asia's largest biotechnology and life-sciences forum was conducted in Hyderabad, Telangana. It was inaugurated by the Governor of Telangana E.S.L Narasimhan. The theme of the conference was 'Life Sciences 4.0 - Disrupt the Disruption'. 'Life Sciences 4.0: transforming health care in India' was launched by EY. The report discusses the disruptive impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) on the health care ecosystem in India.

11)Hemant Bhargava was appointed as the non-executive and non-whole time chairman of this bank.

Ans:-IDBI Bank

Explanation:-IDBI Bank has appointed Hemant Bhargava as non-executive, non-whole time chairman. Bhargava is currently the Chairman (in-charge) and Managing Director of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). The bank stated that Bhargava has been appointed for 3 years or until he continues in his position at LIC. The life insurer is now the majority shareholder in IDBI Bank with a 51% stake.

12)Which of the following defence satellite would be launched by ISRO for DRDO in March 2019?

Ans:-Emisat

Explanation:-In the special mission, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will also launch 28 third- party satellites and will demonstrate its new technologies like three different orbits with a new variant of 'Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle' (PSLV) rocket in March, 2019. Electronic intelligence satellite 'Emisat' of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) weighs about 420 kg. After launching Emisat at an altitude of 763 km, the PSLV rocket will be brought down to put the remaining 28 satellites into orbit at an altitude of 504 km.

13)Indian government had decided to stop sharing of Indus water with which of the following country?

Ans:-Pakistan

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Explanation:-On the lines of Pulwama terror attack, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India has decided to stop the flow of its share of water to Pakistan.In this regard, Centre is planning to build projects on 3 rivers flowing into Pakistan, to divert water towards Yamuna.The water will be diverted from the eastern rivers and supplied it to Indians in Jammu and Kashmir andPunjab.Under the Indus Waters Treaty, India shares water of the Beas and Sutlej rivers with Pakistan.

14)Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani placed as ______in the top 10 richest billionaire list.

Ans:-8th

Explanation:-With a net worth of $54 billion, Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani has broken into the global top 10 richest billionaire list compiled by Hurun Research. The Hurun Global Rich List 2019 is topped by Amazon chief Jeff Bezos for the second year in a row, while the senior Ambani is placed 8th with a network of Rs 3.83 trillion. Ambani is the only Asian among the top 10.

15)Which of the following company has launched India's first indigenous semiconductor chips for 4G/LTE and 5G NR modems?

Ans:-SignalChip

Explanation:-Bengaluru-based Semiconductor Company "SignalChip" has launched India's first indigenous semiconductor chips for 4G /LTE and 5G NR modems in New Delhi. The SCBM34XX and SCRF34XX/45XX series of chips, code-named 'Agumbe', are the result of over 8 years of relentless and deep R&D by Signalchip engineers. The RF sections cover all LTE/5G-NR bands upto 6GHz. These chips also support positioning using India's own satellite navigation system, NAVIC. The Agumbe series builds up on SCRF1401: India's first RF transceiver chip for high performance wireless standards like 3G/4G and WiFi, created by Signalchip in 2015. The combined multi-standard system-on-chip (SoC) can serve as a base station chipset for a wide range of form factors from low-cost indoor small cells to high performance base stations. These are optimally designed to support evolving network architectures like Open RAN/CRAN with flexible interface configurations. Through the IPs created for this device, the company now has the potential to design products for multiple related fields and is currently forging ahead with additional chipsets for advanced 5G NR features.

16)Which state launches PRANAM Commission to Protect Parents Of State Government Employees?

Ans:-Assam

Explanation:-Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the PRANAM Commission, which is a panel set up to look after the issues concerning a Bill brought in for the protection of parents of state government employees. The Parents Responsibility and Norms for Accountability and Monitoring (PRANAM) Bill, stated to be the first-of-its-kind bill in the country, aims to protect elderly parents of government employees in their times of need.

17) Who launched the Integrated Large Scale Eri Farming under North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) in Arunachal Pradesh?

Ans:-Smriti Irani

Explanation:-Union textiles minister Smriti Irani,during her 2-day visit to the North-East, launched the Integrated Large Scale Eri Farming under North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh and will cover about one thousand acres land for Eri Farming in the chosen

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districts of the state.5 districts of the state,namely,Papumpare, East Kameng, Siang, East Siang and West Siang, will be covered by the project initially.The cost of project is Rs 37.25cr with GoI share of Rs 35.65cr. Government has decided to provide financial assistance to 4000 beneficiaries under NERTPS and skill training will be imparted to eri silk farmers and weavers under the Samarth Scheme.

18)According to 'Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)' India ranked ______in the 'Inclusive Internet Index 2019'.

Ans:- 47th

Explanation:- India ranked 47th in the 'Inclusive Internet Index 2019' which is prepared by the 'Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for Facebook. The index was expanded to include 100 countries which will represent 94% of the world's population and 96% of global GDP. Sweden topped the index whereas Singapore ranked 2nd and the USA ranked 3rd. India maintained its previous year rank.

19)Name the Union Minister who launched the scheme SHREYAS?

Ans:-Prakash Javadekar

Explanation:-Union minister Prakash Javadekar launched 'Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills' (SHREYAS) for providing industry apprenticeship opportunities to fresh graduates. This scheme is a programme basket comprising the initiatives of three central ministries, including the HRD, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

20)Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently approved purchase of defence equipment worth Rs ______crore.

Ans:-2,700

Explanation:-DAC approved purchase of defence equipment worth Rs 2,700 crore. DAC granted approval for procurement of three cadet training ships for the Indian Navy, which would be utilised to provide basic sea training for officer cadets including women officer under trainees. DAC meeting was chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. DAC is the highest decision-making body for defence purchases.

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